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Breakthrough In Male Birth Control As Hormone-Free Pill Passes Human Safety Test

Breakthrough In Male Birth Control As Hormone-Free Pill Passes Human Safety Test

NDTV5 days ago
Researchers have been working on experimental hormone-free male birth control pills, with its first safety test in humans just passed in a breakthrough. The latest results from the early phase 1 clinical trial were published on Tuesday in Communications Medicine.
The daily pill, called YCT-529, works by blocking a vitamin A metabolite from binding to its receptor in the testes. It prevents sperm production without affecting hormone levels, the study revealed.
The phase 1 clinical trial was conducted on 16 healthy men who had undergone vasectomies. The results showed that the drug was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported.
The optimal dosage is expected to be around 180 mg, based on the trial results. However, further studies will determine the exact dosage. The trial did not assess the pill's efficacy in reducing sperm and preventing pregnancy, with the medicine developer, YourChoice Therapeutics, running trials to collect that data.
However, Dr Stephanie Page, an endocrinologist at the University of Washington School of Medicine, who wasn't involved in the study, said that the safety finding is a crucial milestone. "We really need more reversible contraceptive methods for men," Page said as quoted by Scientific American.
Animal studies have shown that fertility returns within 4-6 weeks after stopping the drug in mice and 10-15 weeks in non-human primates.
The pill would provide a safe, reversible and non-hormonal alternative to current male birth control methods, such as condoms and vasectomies.
"A safe and effective male pill will provide more options to couples for birth control," Gunda Georg, who is a professor in the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, said in a statement. The drug molecule was developed there. "It will allow a more equitable sharing of responsibility for family planning and provide reproductive autonomy for men."
The pill is currently in phase 2 clinical trials. It may take several years to become available on the market, if it gets approval. Other options in development include NES/T, a hormonal gel, and ADAM, a hydrogel implant that acts as a reversible vasectomy.
"The positive results from this first clinical trial laid the groundwork for a second trial, where men receive YCT-529 for 28 days and 90 days, to study safety and changes in sperm parameters," the study authors wrote in their paper.
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Fuel For Focus: How Parents Can Nourish Children's Minds With The Right Fats And Oils
Fuel For Focus: How Parents Can Nourish Children's Minds With The Right Fats And Oils

News18

time19 hours ago

  • News18

Fuel For Focus: How Parents Can Nourish Children's Minds With The Right Fats And Oils

Last Updated: Children need healthy fats as they support brain health and cognitive development. Here's how parents can make smarter food choices. A new school year signals a fresh start for children across India. The transition from a joyful summer vacation to a disciplined school routine can be challenging for both kids as well as their parents. When adjusting to the new routine, regaining focus and energy levels becomes a shared priority as a family. While practising an early bedtime routine or previewing academic material a week prior are helpful, it's also equally essential to consider nutrition intake. More specifically, it's important to reconsider ingredient choices, starting with choosing the right cooking oils and fats, which form the basis of any cooking. As we approach a new academic year, Dr. Shilpa Vora, Chief R&D Officer at Marico, shares how simple, nutrition-led choices, starting with the right cooking oils, can lay the foundation for a healthier, more productive school year. Which Healthy Fats Are Essential For A Growing Mind? Not all fats are bad; in fact, some fats are essential for a child's learning and development. Dr Vora says, 'Healthy fats like monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are essential for a child's growth and development, as they are vital sources of energy that contribute to overall growth and development." Dr Vora advises, 'While healthy fats are essential, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excess calorie intake. Pairing a nutritious diet with an active lifestyle, including playing sports, daily playtime or outdoor activities further enhances both physical health and cognitive development in children." Choose The Right Cooking Oils For Your Child's Health It is essential to develop the habit of reading labels when purchasing products. Dr Vora says, 'While curating the grocery list, one should keep in mind that edible oils with excess saturated and trans fats can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol, which may increase the risk of developing childhood obesity and can contribute to other metabolic disorders as they age." 'Instead choose multi-sourced edible oils for daily use, as they provide a good balance of fatty acids like MUFA and PUFA. These blended oils are rich in natural antioxidants and fortified with nutrients like Vitamin A and D, making them a smart choice for heart health," suggests Dr Vora. Another healthy addition to the list of cooking oils is cold-pressed oils. These oils are unrefined and retain the natural flavour and aroma of the seed due to their low-temperature extraction process, making them a wholesome choice for everyday meals. Saffola's cold-pressed oil range, available in single-seed and dual-seed variants, offers a healthy balance of MUFA and PUFA, along with essential fatty acids like Omega 3 and Omega 6. Healthy eating habits – Include a handful of nuts and seeds rich in heart-healthy fats and protein as part of your kid's breakfast. Healthy meal habits – Additionally, make their meals enjoyable by incorporating seasonal and colourful vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes to provide essential nutrients that support long-term health. Healthy cooking habits – Incorporate modern cooking practices such as air frying, sauteing, baking or pan frying using moderate amounts of oils for everyday cooking. A Back-To-School Kitchen Checklist For Smarter, Balanced Nutrition Stock up on Omega-3-rich 'Brain Foods' like chia seeds, flax seeds, avocados, walnuts, and salmon. Include healthy cooking oils with balanced fatty acid ratios for different meal preparations. Keep hydration and energy levels in check by encouraging regular water intake and including fresh fruit juices in moderation. Add fibre-rich foods like oats, wholegrains, apples, bananas, spinach, carrots, and quinoa to your diet to support gut and overall health. By making educated and responsible choices, from choosing the right cooking oils and ingredients, to encouraging regular physical activity, parents can help kids develop better focus, health and stronger well-being for the new academic year. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

8 best vitamin C serums in India: Top picks for glowing, even-toned and youthful skin
8 best vitamin C serums in India: Top picks for glowing, even-toned and youthful skin

Hindustan Times

timea day ago

  • Hindustan Times

8 best vitamin C serums in India: Top picks for glowing, even-toned and youthful skin

When we think of vitamin C, the first picture that comes to our mind is orange juice, an immunity booster, and more. But what if we told you vitamin C can be a game-changer for your skin too? This antioxidant plays an important role in skincare ingredients, primarily in the form of face serums, to contribute to clear, glowing, and youthful skin. Well, our body needs the correct nutrition to stay healthy. Similarly, our skin needs the right care for a natural and radiant glow. Vitamin C face serums help to brighten your complexion, fade dark spots, reduce fine lines, and boost collagen. If your face looks dull, tired, or uneven, a vitamin C face serum may help to bring back the glow. But with so many options available, searching for the perfect one can be challenging. We have listed the best vitamin C face serums in India to help you make the best choice. Say hello to glowing skin with these vitamin C face serums. Image courtesy: Freepik 8 best vitamin C face serums in India According to the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics, face serum is a revitalising and invigorating treatment that may leave your skin feeling and looking its best. Check the top-picks: Loading Suggestions... This vitamin C face serum helps to fade dark spots and reduce pigmentation by blocking melanin production, resulting in a more even, glowing complexion. It may lighten discoloration and brighten your skin tone. This serum increases the collagen production, helping to firm and plump the skin for a youthful appearance. It also contributes to smoothing fine lines, along with wrinkles. Ideal for dark spots, pigmentation, and dull skin, this serum is for all skin types. Reasons to buy Enhance overall complexion Reduce dark spots Boost collagen for youthful skin Reasons to avoid Mixed reviews on value for money May oxidise easily Click Here to Buy The Derma Co 10% Vitamin C Face Serum with 5% Niacinamide, Powered by Deep Penetration Formula™ | Fades Dark Spots | Reduces Pigmentation | Boosts Collagen | Brightens Skin | Suitable for All Skin Types | 30 ml Loading Suggestions... The brand claims you can get glowing and brighter skin in just 5 days with this powerful serum. It is made with 10% vitamin C and 5% niacinamide to boost your natural glow and improve skin texture. If you're dealing with dark spots or hyperpigmentation, you can start seeing a visible difference in just 3 days. This beginner-friendly serum also helps even out your skin tone by gently fading discoloration, leaving your skin clear, smooth, and healthy-looking. Reasons to buy Reduces dark spots Even skin tone Improve skin texture Reasons to avoid Mixed reviews on value for money Click Here to Buy Pilgrim 10% Vitamin C Serum 30ml for Glowing Skin|With 5% Niacinamide, Hyaluronic & Glycolic Acid|Fades Dark Spots, Pigmentation|For All, Oily, Combination, Normal Skin |Beginner Friendly - Men, Women Loading Suggestions... This powerful combination of 10% vitamin C and 0.5% ferulic acid works well together to limit the enzymes responsible for pigmentation, leading to a visible glow, improved brightness, and reduced dullness or tanning. This lightweight, water-based serum spreads effortlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving no sticky feeling or greasy residue. Ideal for oily skin and suits all other skin types. Ferulic acid acts like an antioxidant, offering protection from sun damage. Reasons to buy Water-based vitamin C serum Sun protection Rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties Reasons to avoid It may take time to show results Click Here to Buy Deconstruct 10% Vitamin C Serum | Non-Irritating & Non-Sticky | Tested for Oily, Sensitive Skin | Beginner-Friendly| Brightens Dull Skin, Evens Tone | No Purging | With 0.5% Ferulic Acid| 20ml Loading Suggestions... This Vitamin C Face Serum is made with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, which is the purest and most powerful form of Vitamin C. The brand claims that it brightens your skin in just 5 days. The serum works to fade dark spots and pigmentation while evening out your skin tone, making your face look fresh and glowing. It also supports collagen production and protects your skin from damage caused by free radicals, helping to slow down signs of aging. The formula is moisturizing and suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and even sensitive skin. This serum is dermatologically tested, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from sulfates and parabens. Reasons to buy Reduce pigmentation and even-tone skin Boosts collagen production Suitable for all skin types Reasons to avoid Receives mixed feedback on smell Click Here to Buy Foxtale 15% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin | Pure L-Ascorbic Acid and Vitamin E | Brightening Serum for Dark Spots,Dull Skin,Uneven Skin Tone | All Skin Types | 10 ml Loading Suggestions... This anti-ageing serum is made with powerful and skin-loving ingredients. Glycerin keeps your skin soft and hydrated without making it greasy by locking in moisture. Rosehip oil helps brighten your skin tone and works against acne, pigmentation, and blemishes while also slowing down signs of ageing. Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates the skin, keeps it plump and radiant, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 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This lightweight and fast-absorbing serum provides instant hydration without feeling greasy. With regular use, it improves skin texture and firmness, leaving your skin smoother, softer, and more supple. Reasons to buy Even skin tone Non-irritating formula Lightweight and fast-absorbing Reasons to avoid Mixed reviews on quality and value for money Click Here to Buy Dr. Alies - Professional 15% Vitamin C Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin, Vita-E, Ferulic Acid | Advanced Skin Brightening Formula for Glowing Face | Reduces Uneven Skin Tone | Non-Irritating | 30 ml Loading Suggestions... WhiteGlow Vitamin-C+Gold Radiance Serum is a powerful serum that helps reduce dark spots and dullness. It contains a strong form of vitamin C that quickly absorbs into the skin and works effectively to brighten your complexion. This serum has yuzu lemon and kakadu plum, an ingredient that has 100 times more vitamin C than oranges, to fade dark spots, pigmentation, and acne marks. It also has pure gold leaves that give your skin a radiant glow while improving elasticity and skin tone. Suitable for all skin types, this serum hydrates and moisturizes your skin, making it look naturally bright and healthy. Reasons to buy Reduce dark spots and dullness Suitable for all skin types Skin brightening properties Reasons to avoid Mixed reviews on effectiveness Click Here to Buy Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Vitamin C and Gold Radiance Face Serum Loading Suggestions... CITTA Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum is made with a powerful triple-blend of vitamin C—3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, and kakadu plum, to give your skin a bright, healthy glow. It helps reduce dark spots, evens out skin tone, and fades pigmentation. It is enriched with moringa extract, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E it also hydrates your skin deeply and boosts collagen, making your skin look youthful and fresh. The serum has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly and suits all skin types, including sensitive, dry, oily, and combination skin. It's safe to use every day, as it's free from parabens, mineral oils, toxins, and harsh chemicals. Plus, it's cruelty-free and gentle on the skin. Reasons to buy Triple brightening formula Lightweight and suitable for all skin types Cruelty-free Reasons to avoid Can interact with other actives Click Here to Buy CITTA 12% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum – For Oily, Combination & Acne-Prone Skin – With Hyaluronic Acid, Promotes Glowing Skin – Fights Dark Spots, Pigmentation & Uneven Tone – Non-Comedogenic, Dermatologically Tested – 30ml What are the benefits of using a vitamin C serum for glowing and even-toned skin? 1. Brightens dull skin: Serums with ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin help reduce dullness and give your skin a radiant, healthy glow. 2. Fades dark spots and pigmentation: Regular use of serums may target dark spots, acne marks, and uneven pigmentation, helping you achieve a more even skin tone over time. 3. Hydrates and plumps skin: Most serums are enriched with hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid, which deeply moisturize your skin, making it soft, plump, and fresh-looking. 4. Lightweight yet powerful: Unlike heavy creams, serums absorb deeper into the skin, delivering active ingredients directly where they're needed most without feeling greasy. 5. Improves skin texture: With regular use, serums help refine your skin's texture, making it smoother, softer, and more supple. How to choose the best vitamin C serum for glowing skin in India? 1. Choose the right type of vitamin C: Look for stable and effective forms like L-ascorbic acid, ethyl ascorbic acid. These are known to brighten the skin and reduce dark spots. 2. Pick the correct concentration: Beginners can start with 5–10% vitamin C, while experienced users can go for 15–20% for faster results. Higher percentages may irritate sensitive skin. 3. Check additional ingredients: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid (hydration), vitamin E and ferulic acid (antioxidant boost), niacinamide (brightening), and aloe vera or glycerin (soothing) improve the serum's effectiveness. 4. Avoid harsh chemicals: Go for formulas that are free from parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and synthetic fragrance, especially if you have sensitive skin. 5. Check brand reputation and reviews: Choose products from brands that are dermatologically tested, have clear ingredient lists, and are well-reviewed by users. Similar articles for you: 10 top-rated sunscreens for dry skin that protect without causing dryness 7 multivitamin supplements with biotin for strong hair, glowing skin and healthy nails Top 10 fiber supplements to support better digestion in July 2025 FAQs for face serum for glowing and even-toned skin What does a face serum do for glowing skin? A face serum delivers concentrated active ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid deep into the skin. These ingredients help brighten dull skin, reduce dark spots, and improve overall skin texture, giving a radiant and even-toned look. Can I use a face serum every day? Yes, most serums are safe for daily use. For best results, you can apply the serum twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, after cleansing and before moisturizing. Which ingredients should I look for in a serum for glowing skin? You can look for ingredients like vitamin C (for brightening), niacinamide (for even tone), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), alpha arbutin (for dark spots), and vitamin E (for antioxidant protection). Is serum suitable for all skin types? Yes, most serums are lightweight and designed to suit all skin types. Just make sure to choose a formula that matches your specific needs: hydrating for dry skin, oil-free for oily skin, and soothing for sensitive skin. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Indian intervention ensured safety of Axiom-4 astronauts: Isro chief
Indian intervention ensured safety of Axiom-4 astronauts: Isro chief

Time of India

time2 days ago

  • Time of India

Indian intervention ensured safety of Axiom-4 astronauts: Isro chief

Trichy: Indian intervention led to the postponement of the Axiom Mission 4 launch originally scheduled for July 11, ensuring the safety of astronaut Shubanshu Shukla and three others, chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation ( Isro ) and secretary of the department of space, V Narayanan, has said. Speaking at the 21st convocation of the National Institute of Technology, Trichy (NIT-T) here on Saturday, Narayanan recalled the original launch of Axiom Mission 4 was scheduled for June 11, but on the morning of June 10, a liquid oxygen leak in the booster engine of the rocket was detected. "The rocket, which was supposed to take into space along with Shubanshu Shukhla and three other astronauts from different countries, had developed a problem. It was the Indian team that raised concerns and ensured the launch was called off on the evening of June 10 at 5.15pm, as the rocket was deemed unsafe to fly. The cracks were later fixed, and the rocket successfully lifted off on June 25, placing all the astronauts safely in orbit," he said. "Every Indian must be proud that, through our education system, knowledge, and the support of Isro, we were able to call off a mission in time to ensure the safety of the astronauts. Today, it is part of history that they were launched and brought back safely," he added. The Isro chairman also presented a model of the GSLV Mk-3 rocket to the institution. Praising India's space efforts, he said, "We have so far launched six rockets, with the heaviest being the GSLV Mark-3 vehicle, through which we placed Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 in orbit, completed commercial missions, and launched 72 foreign satellites. The same rocket is now set to lift a 6,500kg communication satellite of the USA into orbit. It will also carry Indian crew members to space in 2027." NIT-T director G Aghila presented a report about the academic, research accomplishments and reiterated its 9th ranking in NIRF and 31st among all higher education institutions. A total of 2,045 degrees were awarded which includes 175 Phd, 5 MS, 483 MTech, 18 M Arch, 95 MBA, 109 MCA, 90 17 M A, 995 B tech and 58 B Arch. Earlier, speaking to reporters at Trichy airport, Narayanan said, "On July 30, the NASA-Isro synthetic aperture radar satellite will be launched using GSLV mark 2 vehicle. The satellite is jointly realised by India, Isro and JPL (USA). This satellite is going to be useful for the global community in earth observation and disaster mitigation areas. It is an important satellite, and it will be the 102nd launch from Indian soil. "

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