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University of Leeds Scientists Develop Promising Solutions for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Researchers led by Professor Nikita Gamper of the University of Leeds’ School of Biomedical Sciences have found that the body can efficiently make its own specific “sleeping pills” that, like benzodiazepines, dull impulses from a specific nerve and regulate an individual’s level of discomfort.

 The results, complemented by earlier research by Professor Gamper and Professor Xiaona Du of Hebei Medical University in Shijiazhuang, China, may lead to a major advancement in pain management and a shift away from potent opioids like morphine or fentanyl. Scientists working on the study will look more closely at how this could benefit those who suffer from chronic pain with new research funding announced for the New Year.

 According to Professor Gamper’s statement, “We know a lot about how people experience pain, but there isn’t much we can do about it. Opioids continue to be the gold standard despite all of the incredible findings and textbooks that have been written. No significant improvement over opioids has been made. If you have pain, you will probably be prescribed either opioids, which are really effective but hazardous, or ibuprofen, which is fine for mild pain but completely useless for severe pain or neuropathic pain.”

 A class of depressive medications known as benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” are used as sleeping aids and to treat anxiety and seizures. At the University of Cincinnati, Professor Gamper and his colleagues Professor Du and Dr. Temugin Berta discovered that some cells that are connected to human nerves and reside in structures known as spinal ganglia can emit a peptide that functions similarly to benzos. These peptides do not, however, put the entire nervous system to sleep because the process is restricted to the peripheral nervous system; as a result, they do not pose the same concerns as dangerous and addictive opioids.

 According to the research, nerves have the ability to “tune out” pain signals or limit how much pain the brain perceives a person to be feeling.

 The results may provide patients attempting to manage chronic pain on a daily basis some optimism, according to Dr. Ganesan Baranidharan, a pain management consultant in Leeds. He stated: “One of the main issues facing the health service is chronic pain. Physiotherapy, injections, and surgeries are some of the ways that we try to help people in clinics manage their pain. Another method is “self-management,” which involves learning to live with pain. But long-term use of opioids and nerve medications can have serious side effects, like memory loss and zombie-like feelings, and some patients will have chronic pain that requires medication. In order to treat chronic pain, we need other options, even though some individuals respond quite effectively to small doses of opioids. Our patients will benefit more from our continued research and development of suitable medications to cure certain ailments.”

Their findings have been published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation.

 Pain is a daily burden for up to one-third of the world’s population, and even though it is the main cause of medical visits worldwide, it is still not adequately managed. Furthermore, Dr. Berta of Cincinnati, whose work is supported by the NIH HEAL effort, stated: “Millions of people experience chronic pain, and over half struggle to find appropriate relief.” As pain researchers, we have the chance to identify novel processes that underlie the development of chronic pain and to disseminate discoveries that could advance therapeutic approaches.

 Seeing a member of his close family experience neuropathic pain had a significant impact on Professor Gamper’s decision to concentrate his research in this field. In the end, he continued, “the ability or at least the opportunity to relieve people from pain drives you, not curiosity. Pain is an interesting phenomenon to study.”

 While the scientists had never met before, they were familiar with each other’s work and quickly discovered that they had been working on related tests that yielded identical results. Their work “embodies the collaborative spirit of academic research,” according to Dr. Berta, and demonstrates how scientists may collaborate to make important strides in our understanding and treatment of pain. The Medical Research Council and the pharmaceutical sector have recently awarded £3.5 million to a Leeds research team headed by Professor Gamper to further investigate their findings. Beginning in January 2025 and lasting five years, a new study will examine novel methods of pain management and possible indicators of neuropathic pain in greater detail, taking into account the new information regarding spinal ganglia and the “benzo” peptide.

MediBuddy’s HerHealthBuddy Inspires Change and Awareness Around Women’s Health on Women’s Day

National, 07 March 2025: MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare company, is marking International Women’s Day with an interactive campaign—#HerHealthBuddy. This initiative aims to challenge misconceptions, break stigmas and educate individuals about crucial aspects of women’s health. Through an engaging quiz format, expert insights and myth-busting facts, the campaign empowers women to take control of their well-being and encourages society to prioritise women’s health beyond just one day of recognition.

Women’s health is often overlooked, misunderstood, or surrounded by misinformation. To bridge the knowledge gap, #HerHealthBuddy presents an interactive challenge—testing awareness of essential topics like menstruation, reproductive health and medical disparities.

With questions such as, “How many years does the average woman spend menstruating?” and “What’s the most common undetected health condition among women?”, the campaign highlights vital but often unspoken facts. Each answer is backed by educational insights, shedding light on overlooked health concerns such as thyroid disorders, period stigma and the gender gap in medical research.

Women’s health isn’t just a ‘women’s issue’—it’s a family issue that impacts a community and ultimately spirals into a global issue. While society celebrates women’s achievements, real progress requires prioritising their health through education, support, and systemic change.

Speaking about the campaign, Saibal Biswas, SVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Partnerships, MediBuddy, said, “Women often bear the weight of complex biological experiences, managing incredible bodily transformations with remarkable resilience. However, the lack of comprehensive health education—the belief that women must endure health challenges silently—often leads to misunderstandings and self-neglect. With #HerHealthBuddy, we’re taking a step towards changing that narrative. Knowledge is power, and by educating women and those around them, we empower them to make informed choices about their health. This Women’s Day, let’s do more than celebrate. Let’s care. Let’s educate. Let’s #AccelerateAction.”

MediBuddy aims to bridge the gap between awareness and action, urging women to prioritise their well-being and seek comprehensive healthcare support.

Kuklah’s New School: A Step Towards a Greener Future with Unmatched Sustainability

When relentless rains swept through Himachal Pradesh in 2023, Government Primary School Kuklah in Mandi district was completely washed away. The school, which originally comprised seven classrooms, two toilets, and a kitchen for the Mid-Day Meal programme, served 35 students and had a staff of five, including two support members.

 In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, the school remained non-operational for 10 days. Determined to continue their children’s education, the local community and school staff arranged for makeshift classes in a village temple.

 Kishan Chand, a resident of Kuklah gram panchayat, recalls the difficult transition: “With our school gone, our children had no choice but to study in the local temple. The space was cramped, and the lack of proper facilities made it hard for them to concentrate on their lessons. It was a struggle every day.”

 The loss of the school was more than the loss of a building – it disrupted a safe space where children learned, played, and built their future. Understanding the gravity of the situation, SEEDS (Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society), with the support of PwC India Foundation, stepped in – not just to rebuild, but to create a school that would be stronger, more sustainable, and better suited to the region’s needs.

 Duni Chand, the head of GPS Kuklah: “For the past one and a half years, our students have been studying in the village temple, struggling in a difficult environment. When the SEEDS team visited our school, they immediately saw the need to reconstruct it. They worked with PwC India Foundation to start the work. Now, our children have a proper space to continue their education.”

 The newly constructed school integrates child-friendly architecture with environmentally conscious construction techniques. Designed with long-term resilience in mind, it features modern classrooms, improved sanitation facilities, and access to clean drinking water. Special attention was given to creating a safe, secure, and dignified learning environment.
Semi-open learning spaces were incorporated to complement the hilltop climate, ensuring shaded areas and maximizing natural light and ventilation for an energy-efficient setting.

 One of the standout features of the new school is its shallow dome construction technique on the ground floor roof. By replacing steel and concrete with brick, the design significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint, cuts down construction costs, and shortens the overall construction timeline.

 On the first floor, large windows replace conventional walls, allowing adjustable natural lighting and improved airflow. The North light roof design optimizes diffused daylight, ensuring a bright yet soft illumination throughout the day.
Additionally, low sill heights keep students visually connected to the outdoors, creating an environment where they feel comfortable and learn better.

 Beyond just rebuilding the school, the project became a community-driven effort. Over 90% of the workforce involved in construction was sourced locally, providing immediate employment and strengthening community engagement.

 Champa Kumari, a School Management Committee member whose daughter attends the school, speaks about the community’s involvement:
“The villagers were also involved in various activities during the school construction project. This school belongs to us all, and we took ownership of rebuilding it. The sense of community extended beyond just construction work. As the building was taking shape, the construction team and community observed Diwali, while students celebrated Children’s Day on the campus even as work continued. These moments of joy reassured both the community and the students that progress was being made and the school would soon be functional.”

 The initiative also supported the regional economy by sourcing materials and services from local businesses, reinforcing the importance of sustainable, community-led development. Today, 53 students, including 24 boys and 29 girls, have access to a safe, well-equipped learning environment—one that will stand resilient in the face of future climate challenges.
As India continues to face climate-related challenges, the demand for disaster-resilient and sustainable schools is more urgent than ever. Dr. Manu Gupta, Co-founder of SEEDS, emphasizes the critical role of education in post-disaster recovery:

“After any disaster, getting children back to school is one of the most important steps toward healing. Schools provide a sense of routine, safety, and hope. By reconstructing disaster-resilient schools, we ensure that children can overcome trauma and return to a state of normalcy, allowing them to focus on learning and rebuilding their future.”

Gillco International School Commemorates National Science Day with Interactive Student Activities

Mohali: Gillco International School marked National Science Day with an engaging showcase of scientific creativity, where students of Classes VI-VIII presented a series of innovative projects and experiments. The event aimed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a hands-on approach to learning among young minds.

Students demonstrated a wide array of projects, covering themes such as environmental conservation, technological advancements, and real-world problem-solving. Their innovative models and experiments highlighted their keen understanding of scientific principles and their potential applications. Teachers, parents, and peers enthusiastically engaged with the budding scientists, appreciating their efforts and encouraging a deeper exploration of scientific concepts.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kritika Kaushal, Principal of Gillco International School, said, “At Gillco International School, we believe that science is not just about learning facts but about questioning, exploring, and innovating. Events like these empower our students to think critically and develop a problem-solving mindset. It is truly inspiring to see our young learners demonstrate such enthusiasm and creativity in science. We are committed to nurturing their curiosity and preparing them to be future innovators.”

World Sleep Day Preview: Medica Hosts Panel of Experts to Raise Awareness on Sleep Health

Kolkata/Mumbai, 7th March’25: Medica Superspecialty Hospital, a part of the Manipal Hospital Group, hosted an insightful panel discussion today on ‘Sleep Health’ to commemorate upcoming World Sleep Day on 14th March 2025. The discussion brought together esteemed medical professional including Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Senior Vice Chairman, Senior Cardiac Heart Surgeon & Head MICS, (Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, Director, Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology, Dr. Pradeepta kumar Sethy, Director – Gastroenterology from the hospital along with (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy – renowned Psychiatrist as panelists to shed light on the impact of sleep on overall health and well-being. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea and Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea.

Good sleep is the cornerstone of well-being, yet it is being neglected in this fast-paced era. On this World Sleep Day, under the slogan “Make Sleep Health a Priority,” it is essential to understand that quality sleep is not a luxury but a need for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Poor sleep can lead to all manner of illnesses, from weakened immunity to increased stress and chronic disease. The catchphrase behind the panel discussion was to get people to realize on how by developing good sleep habits—such as having a regular sleep routine, limiting screen time at night, and making the environment calming—people can improve their productivity during the day, our mood, and our overall health.

Facilitated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, the session enlightened participants about the importance of identifying sleep disorders, their symptoms, and availing themselves of early medical care. Highlighting the extensive influence of sleep on one’s well-being, Dr. Sengupta Datta said, “Good health begins with quality sleep, yet many overlook warning signs like chronic snoring, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating—often early indicators of underlying health issues. Even pediatric sleep problems, if ignored, can hinder a child’s physical, behavioral, and social development. Establishing healthy sleep habits from an early age is essential, though it’s never too late to make positive changes. Seeking professional evaluation and timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and significantly improve overall well-being.”

During the discussion, Dr. Kunal Sarkar, emphasized the connection between sleep and cardiovascular health. “Poor sleep is directly associated with hypertension, arrhythmias, and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. A routine sleep schedule is as important as a healthy diet and exercise for heart health.”

(Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, outlined the relationship of sleep with metabolic disorders. “Chronic lack of sleep disorganizes glucose metabolism, causing a risk increase for diabetes and obesity. A well-timed sleep pattern is important to ensure hormonal balance as well as for good metabolic function.”

While interacting, Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Sethy, described how sleep patterns affect digestive health. “Irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, and indigestion. A regular sleep schedule maintains digestive function and prevents stress-related gut problems.”

In discussing the significance of quality sleep, (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy, Psychiatrist, highlighted the interconnection between sleep and mental health. “Sleep and emotional well-being are very closely linked. Sleep deprivation is a significant cause of anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can make a big difference in mental clarity and resilience.”

Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, while concluding the discussion, highlighted the serious impact of chronic sleep disorders. He stated, “Sleep apnea and insomnia, two of the most prevalent sleep disorders, not only disrupt sleep but also pose significant health risks, including hypertension, heart disease, and cognitive impairment. A Forbes report from last year revealed that for every 100 male OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) patients, there are approximately 50-60 female patients. Women with obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, those who are postmenopausal, or pregnant are at a higher risk of developing OSA. The condition is also common in children, even preschoolers, often manifesting as hyperactivity, attention deficits, mood swings, poor academic performance, and growth issues. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial for effective management. By incorporating lifestyle changes, seeking medical guidance, and adhering to prescribed treatments, individuals can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being.”

Regarding the panel discussion, Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals (East), stated, “Prioritizing our health is essential, and quality sleep plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being. I am glad that we organized this panel discussion at our hospital today, to raise awareness on this important topic, with esteemed senior doctors from various specialties sharing their insights as panelists.”