Synthesis of ring-A modified lupeol derivatives and their anti-proliferative activity: identification of potent lead active against MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

In continuation of our research program aimed at the development of new natural product-based anticancer agents, a series of lupeol derivatives (5a-5k and 6a-6i) were prepared with the introduction of aryl functionalities and amino acids at C-3 position. All the synthesised derivatives were assessed for in vitro anticancer activity against four human cancer cell lines using MTT assay. Interestingly, the compounds 5j, 5k, and 6 g showed potent activity against MCF7 cells as compared with the parent compound. Further, the flowcytometry analysis revealed that the 5j,5k, and 6 g arrest the cells at the G2/M phase and induce the early apoptosis in MCF7 cells. In addition, the selected compounds inhibit the BcL2 expression and increase the Bax protein expression in MCF7 cells. Overall, these results indicated that the lupeol derivatives could serve as a promising launch point for the development of anticancer agents.

Expansion of the measles and rubella laboratory network, India.

Objective: To expand the measles and rubella laboratory network of India by integrating new laboratories. Methods: In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indian government developed a 10-step scheme to systematically expand the number of laboratories performing serological and molecular testing for measles and rubella. The Indian Council of Medical Research and WHO identified suitable laboratories based on their geographical location, willingness, preparedness, past performance and adherence to national quality control and quality assurance mechanisms. The 10-step scheme was initiated with training on measles and rubella diagnostic assays followed by testing of both measles and rubella serology and molecular unknown panels, cross-verification with reference laboratories and ended with WHO on-site accreditation. Findings: After extensive training, technical support, funding and monitoring, all six selected laboratories attained passing scores of 90.0% or more in serological and molecular proficiency testing of measles and rubella. Since 2018, the laboratories are a part of the measles and rubella network of India. Within 12 months of initiation of independent reporting, the six laboratories have tested 2287 serum samples and 701 throat or nasopharyngeal swabs or urine samples. Conclusion: The process led to strengthening and expansion of the network. This proficient laboratory network has helped India in scaling up serological and molecular testing of measles and rubella while ensuring high quality testing. The collaborative model developed by the Indian government with WHO can be implemented by other countries for expanding laboratory networks for surveillance of measles and rubella as well as other infectious diseases.