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Scientists at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) have developed a novel non-invasive test for early pregnancy detection using dung samples.
Initially designed for tigresses, this test has now been successfully adapted and expanded for use in cattle, offering significant benefits to Indian farmers.
The test can reliably detect pregnancy as early as 20-30 days post-conception, which is considerably earlier than traditional methods that become reliable only after 3-4 months.
This innovation detects specific pregnancy hormones, providing a crucial tool for improved reproductive management in livestock and effective monitoring of endangered wildlife.
This scientific method relies on detecting specific steroid hormones, primarily progesterone metabolites, which are produced in increased quantities during pregnancy. These hormones are excreted from the body through faeces (dung). By analyzing these dung samples, scientists can identify the presence and concentration of these biochemical markers. The non-invasive nature of this technique is particularly beneficial as it avoids the stress and potential risks associated with physical examinations or blood sampling, especially for wild or difficult-to-handle animals.
Simple Analogy: Similar to how human home pregnancy tests detect a specific hormone (hCG) in urine, this animal test detects pregnancy-related hormones in their dung.
A premier Indian research institution under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), focused on fundamental research in modern biology and its applications.
Directly impacts livestock management by improving breeding efficiency, reducing costs associated with delayed detection, and optimizing farm productivity.
Provides a crucial non-invasive tool for monitoring the reproductive status of endangered species, aiding population assessment and conservation strategies.
Represents an advancement in diagnostic techniques, showcasing the application of biochemical analysis for practical biological problems.
GS-III: Science & Technology—Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Animal Rearing; Biotechnology. GS-III: Environment—Conservation.
General Science; Current Affairs (Science & Technology).
General Awareness (Science & Technology, Agriculture News).
General Science; Current Affairs.
In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, "Pronuclear Transfer" is used for
Answer: prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring
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Answer: 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: Neither 1 nor 2
Science & Technology innovations, especially those with agricultural, environmental, or health impacts, are consistently featured in competitive exams.
Hormones whose levels increase significantly during pregnancy and are detected by the test in dung samples.
A diagnostic method that does not require entering the body, such as collecting external samples like dung, minimizing stress to the animal.
Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, the Indian research institution responsible for developing this innovative test.