Biology in Human Welfare:

Biology in human welfare focuses on improving human health and well-being.

It encompasses the study of human health, diseases, healthcare, and the application of biological knowledge.

Human Health and Disease:

Good health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.

Diseases can result from pathogens, genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences.

Understanding human health involves knowledge of the body’s normal functioning and factors affecting it.

A Brief History of AIDS:

AIDS is a global pandemic caused by HIV.

It was first identified in the early 1980s among gay men in the U.S.

HIV was discovered in 1983 as the virus responsible for AIDS.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved the prognosis for HIV/AIDS patients.

Structure of HIV:

HIV is a retrovirus with RNA genetic material.

It has a lipid envelope with glycoproteins (gp120 and gp41).

HIV targets CD4+ T cells and enters host cells to replicate.

Tools for Diagnosis: ELISA:

ELISA is an important diagnostic tool for HIV and other diseases.

It detects antibodies or antigens in a patient’s blood sample.

Positive ELISA results require confirmation with specific tests like Western blotting or PCR.

Cancer Detection & Diagnosis:

Early cancer detection is crucial for effective treatment.

Imaging techniques (X-rays, CT scans) and blood tests aid in diagnosis.

Biopsy, the removal of tissue for examination, is essential for definitive cancer diagnosis.

Direct DNA Studies:

Direct DNA studies analyze an individual’s DNA for genetic mutations and variations.

Techniques like PCR and DNA sequencing are used.

These studies have revolutionized the understanding of genetic diseases and enable personalized medicine.