Samsung Brings IPL Alive with AI-Powered TVs
Bengaluru, India – 16 April 2025- Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, has launched the ‘Big League. Bigger Screen’ campaign, bringing exciting offers on its premium range of AI big-screen TVs, including Neo Q LED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, OLED, and Crystal 4K UHD TV. The campaign is designed to elevate the experience of watching cricket, offering an immersive, stadium-like viewing experience. Running from 1st – 30th April 2025, consumers can enjoy exclusive benefits on Samsung’s ultra-premium TVs, making every match feel larger than life.
Customers purchasing a Samsung TV during the offer period can enjoy exclusive benefits, including a free TV worth up to INR 204990 or a free Soundbar worth up to INR 99990 for an immersive audio experience. Additionally, Samsung is offering up to 20% cashback, zero down payment, and flexible EMI options, with the lowest EMI starting at just INR 2990 and extended tenures of up to 30 months.
Samsung’s premium big-screen TVs bring every match to life with advanced AI upscaling, lifelike colour accuracy, and superior sound quality. Equipped with Dolby Atmos and Q-Symphony, these TVs deliver multidimensional audio for a truly cinematic experience. With Samsung Knox Security, users can enjoy a seamless and secure smart TV experience. Powered by AI and Quantum Matrix Technology, these TVs offer exceptional contrast, clarity, and brightness, transforming any living room into a personal stadium.
As part of this exciting campaign, customers can enjoy exclusive offers on 43” & above TV sizes across the Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, OLED TV, and Crystal 4K UHD TV range, making it the perfect time to upgrade to a bigger and better viewing experience.
Neo QLED 8K
Samsung’s Neo QLED 8K range, powered by the NQ8 AI Gen2 Processor, delivers an unparalleled AI-powered viewing experience with lifelike picture quality. With 256 AI neural networks, the processor enhances both picture and sound, ensuring an immersive 8K experience—whether you are streaming your favourite OTT content, playing video games, or watching live sports. Equipped with Motion Xcelerator Turbo Pro, these TVs provide consistently crisp visuals and ultra-fast speeds, making them perfect for high-speed gaming and action-packed entertainment.
Neo QLED 4K
The Neo QLED 4K lineup, powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor, transforms any content into stunning 4K resolution. With Quantum Matrix Technology, it ensures exceptional contrast and detail, even in the most complex scenes. Featuring the world’s first Pantone Validated display for true-to-life colour accuracy and Dolby Atmos for immersive, cinematic sound, the Neo QLED 4K range redefines the 4K entertainment experience.
QLED TV
Samsung’s QLED TV delivers stunning visuals with Quantum Dot technology, ensuring 100% color volume that remains vibrant and true at any brightness level. Designed to seamlessly blend into any home, its ultra-slim design adds a touch of sophistication while elevating the viewing experience.
OLED TV
Samsung’s glare-free OLED TV minimizes unwanted reflections while preserving deep blacks and crisp details in any lighting environment. Powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor, it features Real Depth Enhancer and OLED HDR Pro, setting new standards in picture quality. With Motion Xcelerator 144Hz, Samsung OLED TVs deliver ultra-smooth motion, making them the ultimate choice for gaming and high-speed entertainment.
UHD TV
Samsung’s UHD TV brings colours to life with Dynamic Crystal Color technology, delivering lifelike variation and intricate details in every shade. The Motion Xcelerator feature keeps fast-moving action smooth and clear, making every game, match, movie, or show more immersive than ever.
IIMB Hosts 7th Women in Data Science Conference
16th April, 2025, Bengaluru: To inspire and empower women data researchers, the Data Centre and Analytics Lab (DCAL) at IIM Bangalore hosted the 7th annual Women in Data Science (WiDS) Conference 2025. Part of a Stanford University initiative, the one-day technical conference provided an opportunity to discuss the latest data science-related research and applications across domains.
Accomplished women data scientists and leaders discussed cutting-edge applications and innovations with Gen AI and data technologies. Women leaders from Accenture, Biocon Biologics, Deloitte, EXL, Fractal Analytics, GE Appliances, Genpact, Michelin, PayPal, Target, and Visa shared insights into how they leveraged Data and AI technologies in their companies for a variety of functions.
The conference was organised under the leadership of WiDS Ambassadors–Prof. U Dinesh Kumar, IIMB’s Dean Faculty and Chairperson of DCAL. He said, “The WiDS Bengaluru Conference 2025 played an important role in highlighting the contributions of women in shaping the future of data sciences and AI. It brought together leaders from leading companies who shared their pioneering work across domains. From leveraging the transformative power of AI in enterprises, to scaling Generative AI for driving business improvements as well as the crucial role of women in shaping AI policy and governance. This event underscored the dynamic evolution of AI and also emphasised the importance of diverse perspectives in navigating its future.”
Delivering the keynote, Dr Ambica Rajagopal, Group Chief Data and AI Officer at Michelin said, “The jump in AI technology surprised everyone, but it’s clear that AI is transforming lives for the better. From applications that improve manufacturing efficiency and automate boring parts of jobs, to democratizing access to technology, AI is a critical conversation for enterprises. Technical expertise drives these impactful projects, and responsible AI ensures trust and compliance in this new era.”
Speaking about Scaling with GenAI, Smitha Ganesh, Managing Director – AI, Accenture said,”AI personalisation has been a longstanding challenge. Effective implementation hinges on crucial factors like data availability, balancing precision and recall, and segmenting users for tailored experiences. Real-time responsiveness is critical for user engagement, though managing these complex systems demands significant time and resources.”
Talking about business storytelling with data sciences, Susmita Chaudhury, Partner – Technology & Transformation, Deloitte said, “In the age of AI, data science is no longer just about analytics — it’s about storytelling that drives strategy. With access to real-time insights at our fingertips, businesses can personalize customer journeys, automate workflows, and make bold, data-driven decisions. When we shift left in data projects, prioritize governance, and manage intellectual property with intent, we don’t just reduce risks — we unlock narratives that move markets. AI enables scale, cloud automation refines user experience, and the right story built on the right data can turn complexity into clarity, and action into impact.”
On how AI and data science is tackling buyer abuse and post purchase disputes for ecommerce, Andaleeb Shadan, Senior Director, Resolutions and Protections at Paypal said, “As e-commerce accelerates, so does the sophistication of fraud and the impact of returns abuse — which is fast becoming an existential threat to retailers. The power of data science lies in its ability to tell the full story behind every transaction: who the customer is, what they need, and where the risks lie. At PayPal, we’re using AI and data science not just to detect and prevent fraud, but to design systems that understand the customer lifecycle, protect against losses, and build trust. When data, design, and ethics align, we don’t just fight fraud — we future-proof the business.”
Other members from the institute were Ms. Shailaja Grover, Ms. Harini Thammaiah, Ms. Afreen Aman, Ms. Ashwini Chandrashekharaiah; and Ms. Harini Anand.
The conference included sessions on scaling AI solutions, enhancing learning experience with data, business storytelling through analytics, and leveraging AI to tackle industry challenges.
Kamala Hospital Named TIF Collaborating Centre
Hyderabad, 16 April 2025: Kamala Hospital and Research Centre for Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease, operating under Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society (TSCS), Hyderabad, has been officially designated as one of the key Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) Collaborating Centres in India. This recognition places the facility among a global network of elite centres that are committed to raising the standards of care, education, and research in the field of haemoglobinopathies, including Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) making it a significant achievement in India’s healthcare landscape.
This prestigious selection is the result of a rigorous and multi-stage international assessment process conducted by world-renowned experts, following which Kamala Hospital and Research Centre (TSCS) has now joined a powerful global initiative led by TIF to enhance comprehensive care, strengthen medical training, and build capacity in countries with high disease burden.
In the month of Feb 2025, an official on-site evaluation was carried out by an expert delegation comprising Prof. Antonio Piga and Prof. Dimitrios Farmakis. Their inspection included Kamala Hospital & Research Centre (TSCS) in Hyderabad, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and Post Graduate Institute of Child Health, Noida.
Following an in-depth post-visit assessment — Kamala Hospital and Research Centre (TSCS), Hyderabad, — was selected as one of the two TIF Collaborating Centres in India. TIF Collaborating Centres network is a cornerstone initiative designed to close persistent gaps in care, education, and human resources across countries struggling with high burdens of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease.
Speaking about the collaboration Mr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President, TSCS said, “This designation by TIF is not only an accolade for Kamala Hospital and TSCS, but a beacon of hope for thousands of Indian families affected by Thalassemia and SCD. It acknowledges TSCS outstanding patient care model, our unwavering dedication to equitable access, our leadership in voluntary blood donation and free treatment and our growing stature in research and prevention. As a TIF Collaborating Centre, Kamala Hospital Research Centre (TSCS) will now expand its impact beyond Telangana uplifting regional centres, supporting national policies, and collaborating with international experts. This is not just a recognition. It is a responsibility.”
Dr. Suman Jain, Chief Medical Research Officer and Secretary, TSCS speaking about the way forward said, “As a designated TIF Collaborating Centre, Kamala Hospital (TSCS) will now serve as a nucleus of training, support, and standardization for the state of Telangana and beyond to organize training workshops for Haematologists and treating physicians within the state, structured fellowships will be developed for clinicians and healthcare workers at smaller regional treatment centres, Annual Medical Workshops will bring organized, arrangements of Formal Liaison with Local and National Health Authorities identifying and supporting regional centres” .
Prof Antonio Piga and Prof. Dimitrios Farmakis expressed their happiness and said, “At TIF we are dedicated to improving the lives of patients with Thalassaemia, Sickle Cell Disease, and other haemoglobinopathies worldwide. TIF works closely with World Health Organization (WHO), Ministries of Health, Healthcare professionals and Patient advocacy groups. With this designation TIF Collaborating Centre, Kamala Hospital (TSCS) will now serve as a nucleus of training, support, and innovate for the state of Telangana and beyond to bring clinicians, researchers, donors, patients, and policymakers work together towards Thalassemia and to transform Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease care in India’’.
Mrs. Ratnavali Kottapalli, Vice President, TSCS sharing her concluding statements said, “TSCS is home to a dedicated molecular research unit that regularly publishes findings in both international peer-reviewed journals and national forums. So far 22 journals are published nationally and internationally. The centre has also successfully conducted two National Conferences, Continuing Medical Education (CME) and is an active participant in TIF webinars, workshops, and summits. We are looking forward to the activities scheduled under the collaboration with TIF”.
SBL Launches Automated Plant in Haridwar
New Delhi, 16th April 2025: SBL Global, India’s leading manufacturer of homeopathic medicines, proudly announces the successful installation of a new Automatic Production Chain at its Haridwar manufacturing unit on 18th of February, 2025. This step marks a major milestone in the company’s commitment to enhancing quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
The new automated system is designed to improve the entire manufacturing process by decreasing operator intervention and maintaining consistent product quality. The technology was successfully installed in Unit 2’s Liquid Section before being applied in Unit 1’s Dilution Section.
Sharing his views on this milestone, Mr. Pratik Shrestha, Managing Director of SBL Pvt. Ltd. said, “SBL Global is always investing in innovation and technology to better serve its customers. This new automated system is a huge step forward in guaranteeing that every product leaving our factory meets the highest quality and dependability criteria. It represents our commitment to provide the best possible service to our clients while also working toward a more efficient and sustainable future.”
The advanced production chain includes:
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Online Vision System for error-free batch coding and QR code printing.
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Automatic Labeling & Hologram Machines to improve productivity and accuracy.
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Plugging and Capping Machines to eliminate leakage issues.
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Online Check Weighers to ensure accurate product weights.
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Thermal Inkjet Printers for precise, scannable QR code printing.
This initiative will lead to faster production, fewer customer complaints, and better product traceability, all while reducing waste and supporting the company’s green initiatives. This installation aims to elevate the production of homeopathic medicines and solidify SBL Global’s standing as a reliable industry leader, not merely to build machinery.
Dubai Gears Up for 25th Marathon on February 1, 2026
Supported by Dubai Sports Council, the Middle East’s Oldest International Road Race to Welcome Runners from Over 140 Countries
The 2026 Dubai Marathon – the 25th staging of the Middle East’s oldest international marathon – will be held on February 1.
Dubai, UAE – The organising committee of the Dubai Marathon has officially opened registration for the 25th edition of the iconic race, set to take place on February 1, 2026.
Celebrating its silver jubilee, the Dubai Marathon – the Middle East’s oldest international road race – will mark a significant milestone in its illustrious history with special activities and elite-level competition. Supported by the Dubai Sports Council, the race offers a flat, fast course, attracting participants from around the world. With participation expected from over 140 countries, the event remains a cornerstone on Dubai’s sports calendar and a key fixture in the global marathon circuit.
Recognised as the first race in the region to earn the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label, the Dubai Marathon has become synonymous with record-breaking performances and world-class participation. Legendary athletes have tackled the route, including Haile Gebrselassie who famously recorded the second-fastest marathon time in history during his first appearance in Dubai in 2008, a feat that solidified the race’s global standing.
Dubai Sports Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the event, highlighting its contribution to the city’s international sports profile and its significant economic impact, particularly through tourism and hospitality. Over the past 25 years, the Dubai Marathon has grown into one of the top ten marathons in the world, drawing top-tier athletes and thousands of amateur runners each year.
Alongside the full 42.195km marathon, the 2026 edition will feature a 10km road race and a 4km fun run, offering an inclusive experience for participants of all fitness levels. Registration is now open via the official website dubaimarathon.org Race Director Peter Connerton said: “In coordination with the Dubai Sports Council and other government partners, we are delighted to announce the opening of registration for the 25th Dubai Marathon. To mark the silver jubilee, we are preparing a year-long series of special events leading up to race day.
“Since the inaugural edition, the Dubai Marathon has steadily risen to the top tier of global road racing. Highlights such as the 2008 race featuring Haile Gebrselassie and the ground-breaking 2018 event where seven runners clocked sub-2:05 times for the first time in marathon history have cemented its place among the world’s most prestigious marathons.”
Recent editions have seen rising stars make their mark. In 2017, current Olympic champion Tamirat Tola took victory, while in 2019 reigning world marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich made her marathon debut with a win in Dubai. Earlier this year, Ethiopian runner Bute Gemechu clinched the men’s title on his debut appearance with a time of 2:04:51, while compatriot Berdatu Hirpa secured the women’s title in 2:18:27, surpassing her personal best after a thrilling duel with 2023 winner Dera Dida.
Ahmed Al Kamali, General Coordinator of the Dubai Marathon, emphasised the city’s unmatched infrastructure and readiness to host global sporting events. “Dubai offers world-class facilities, a highly advanced transportation network, and diverse accommodation options, making it an ideal destination for international events,” he said.
“The marathon plays a major role in promoting Dubai as a leading tourist and sports hub. We look forward to welcoming runners from around the world as we celebrate the silver jubilee of the Dubai Marathon, the first international marathon in the Middle East.”
Godrej Safes Set the Standard in Security
16th April, 2025: The Godrej Enterprises Group’s Security Solutions Business continues to empower customers with certified, superior security solutions, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to consumer awareness. As security needs evolve, trust and reliability have become more important than ever. Certified products not only protect consumers but also strengthen confidence in the security solutions they rely on. By adhering to stringent certification standards such as BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) and ISO, the brand continues to set industry benchmarks, enabling consumers to make informed decisions with assurance.
Mr. Pushkar Gokhale, Executive Vice President and Business Head of the Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group, emphasized the role of certification in consumer protection, stating, “In today’s evolving security landscape, ensuring that consumers receive certified, reliable, and high-quality products is crucial. BIS and ISO certifications serve as key benchmarks, reinforcing our steadfast pursuit of excellence. The Quality Control Order that mandates Safe manufacturers to sell only Certified Safes is a great step towards encouraging only Certified products only (QCO). This reulation empowers jewelers community to access high quality Safes from all suppliers with we leading this initiative. we go beyond compliance, advocating for higher industry standards and raising awareness about the significance of certified security solutions. We truly believe that an informed consumer is an empowered consumer, and our goal is to enable them to make choices that provide both assurance and peace of mind. We have been instrumental in being thought leaders by actively educating Jewellers Pan India about the importance of buying only Certified Safes through press conferences in Jewellery hubs like Jaipur, Surat, Lucknow, Kolhapur and more. Our efforts have been extended beyond compliance—we continue to actively educate Jewellers about the value of certified products, enabling them to make informed decisions.
The Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group has consistently led industry advancements, setting new benchmarks for product reliability. Its newly launched Defender Aurum Pro Royal – India’s first Class E BIS-certified Safe and other security solutions serve a wide range of users, from Jewellers , BFSI and institutional sectors to households alike, ensuring that both businesses and individuals benefit from trusted security solutions. This growing adoption of certified products underscores the increasing demand for security solutions that offer not just protection but also confidence and peace of mind.
With the rapid expansion of smart home technology, security solutions are becoming an integral part of modern living. Currently, smart home penetration stands at approximately 10 percent, with projections indicating growth to 20–25 percent by 2030. This upward trend highlights the growing need for certified security solutions that align with evolving consumer expectations.
By actively engaging with industry stakeholders and maintaining global quality standards, the Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group remains dedicated to reinforcing consumer trust through transparency, innovation, and an unwavering focus on reliability.
Love Piping Hot Food? Think Again!
By-Dr. Ranajit Kar, Consultant- Radiation Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre, Cuttack
If you love indulging in food and drinks while they’re still steaming hot, you might want to reconsider whether that habit could be impacting your long-term health. Many people enjoy consuming piping hot tea, coffee, soups, or other dishes straight off the stove, but could this seemingly harmless preference actually increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer? Know the potential link between regularly consuming hot food and drinks and the risk of esophageal cancer, as well as some tips on how to enjoy your meals safely.
The Impact of Temperature on the Esophagus
The tissues of your esophagus are delicate, and consuming food or beverages that are too hot can cause them to become irritated. Every time something excessively hot touches the lining of the esophagus, it can cause minor burns or discomfort, leading to inflammation. While a single instance of consuming hot food likely won’t cause harm, repeated exposure to high temperatures could lead to chronic irritation. Over time, this could potentially contribute to long-term damage to the esophagus.
Just like how hot substances can cause burns on your skin, the sensitive lining of your esophagus can also suffer from heat damage. If this happens frequently, the body’s natural repair process could lead to abnormal cell growth or changes that, in extreme cases, may lead to conditions like Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
Other Contributing Factors
Esophageal cancer doesn’t arise from just one factor. It’s a complex disease influenced by several lifestyle choices. While hot food may contribute, there are other significant risk factors that play a bigger role in the development of esophageal cancer, such as:
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for esophageal cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma, which is commonly linked to tobacco use.
- Heavy drinking: Excessive alcohol consumption is another major factor that raises the risk, especially when combined with smoking.
- Acid reflux (GERD): Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, potentially leading to long-term damage and an increased risk of cancer.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight can increase the likelihood of developing GERD, which, in turn, can damage the esophagus over time.
- Poor diet: A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, and fiber and rich in processed foods and red meat may also contribute to higher cancer risks.
How Can You Enjoy Hot Food Safely?
While consuming hot food and drinks is a part of many people’s daily routine, it’s important to approach it in moderation. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce the risk of irritation and keep your esophagus safe while enjoying your meals:
- Let Your Food Cool Down: If you’re used to eating food straight from the oven or stove, try letting it cool a bit before digging in. Foods that are just hot enough to enjoy without causing discomfort are much safer for your esophagus.
- Check the Temperature: If you’re drinking tea, coffee, or any hot beverage, ensure it’s not too hot to drink. A temperature around 60°C (140°F) or lower is generally considered safer. If you’re unsure, wait a few minutes before drinking.
- Incorporate More Cool or Room-Temperature Foods: While there’s nothing wrong with the occasional hot meal, mixing in cooler or room-temperature foods can give your esophagus a break from the heat. Think salads, smoothies, or chilled dishes that are easier on your body.
- Reduce Other Risk Factors: Hot food and drink isn’t the only thing that affects esophageal health. Reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing GERD can all play a role in minimizing your overall risk.
- Mind the Portions: Large portions of hot food or drinks are more likely to cause discomfort. Eating smaller, more manageable portions can help prevent overloading your system and minimize potential irritation.
Loving your hot tea, coffee, or soup doesn’t necessarily mean you’re on a direct path to esophageal cancer, but regular exposure to food and drinks at extreme temperatures could lead to irritation over time. Chronic irritation to the esophagus may increase the chances of developing conditions that could ultimately contribute to cancer.
By allowing your food and drinks to cool to a safe temperature and keeping an eye on other lifestyle factors, you can continue enjoying your meals while protecting your health. Maintaining a balanced approach to eating and drinking where moderation and variety take center stage can go a long way in reducing your overall risk.
Flipkart Launches 7th Super Cooling Days with Hot Deals
Bengaluru, April 16, 2025: As the country braces for summer, Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, is back with the 7th edition of Super Cooling Days, an annual sale event that gives customers access to a wide range of cooling appliances at affordable prices. Scheduled from April 16 to April 24, 2025, it brings together top appliance brands, exciting deals, and a seamless shopping experience, making it the perfect opportunity for consumers to upgrade their essential cooling appliances this season.
Flipkart Super Cooling Days is designed to meet the diverse needs and budgets of consumers amid the rising demand for cooling appliances across India, offering a combination of quality, choice, and value. During the sale, customers can choose from a variety of affordable financing options such as no-cost EMI, pre-approved offers from leading banks, and Supercoin redemptions. Additionally, customers can take advantage of the Exchange Program, which offers benefits of up to ₹8,000/- on select purchases, making it even more rewarding to upgrade their appliances this season. Flipkart’s service arm, Jeeves, will ensure a hassle-free experience from purchase to use by providing convenient, reliable, and cost-effective after-sales services, including installations performed by trained technicians.
Air Conditioners: Customers can expect exciting deals with offers of up to 55% off on top-rated models from leading brands like Voltas, LG and Blue Star.
Air Coolers: Flipkart offers a wide range of air coolers, including personal, desert, and tower models from top brands like Bajaj, Kenstar and Hindware.
Refrigerators: Refrigerators are a year-round essential, and during Super Cooling Days, customers can upgrade their kitchens with the latest models at great prices with brands offering up to 60% off.
To ensure a seamless and trusted shopping experience, leading brands such as Samsung, Whirlpool, and Haier are offering extended 5-year comprehensive warranties, reinforcing customer confidence in both product quality and after-sales support. To make the shopping experience more immersive and enjoyable, Flipkart will offer an on-demand video assistance feature, where expert agents will guide them throughout their purchase journey.
Simulating Protein Structures Involved in Memory Formation
Computational model reveals details on how certain synaptic proteins organize into unique structures that are vital for learning and memory
Complex protein interactions at synapses are essential for memory formation in our brains, but the mechanisms behind these processes remain poorly understood. Now, researchers from Japan have developed a computational model revealing new insights into the unique droplet-inside-droplet structures that memory-related proteins form at synapses. They discovered that the shape characteristics of a memory-related protein are crucial for the formation of these structures, which could shed light on the nature of various neurological disorders.
Our brain’s remarkable ability to form and store memories has long fascinated scientists, yet most of the microscopic mechanisms behind memory and learning processes remain a mystery. Recent research points to the importance of biochemical reactions occurring at postsynaptic densities—specialized areas where neurons connect and communicate. These tiny junctions between brain cells are now thought to be crucial sites where proteins need to organize in specific ways to facilitate learning and memory formation.
More specifically, a 2021 study revealed that memory-related proteins can bind together to form droplet-like structures at postsynaptic densities. What makes these structures particularly intriguing is their unique “droplet-inside-droplet” organization, which scientists believe may be fundamental to how our brains create lasting memories. However, understanding exactly how and why such complex protein arrangements form has remained a significant challenge in neuroscience.
Against this backdrop, a research team led by Researcher Vikas Pandey from the International Center for Brain Science (ICBS), Fujita Health University, Japan, has developed an innovative computational model that reproduces these intricate protein structures. Their paper, published online in Cell Reports on April 07, 2025, explores the mechanisms behind the formation of multilayered protein condensates. The study was co-authored by Dr. Tomohisa Hosokawa and Dr. Yasunori Hayashi from the Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, and Dr. Hidetoshi Urakubo from ICBS, Fujita Health University.
The researchers focused on four proteins found at synapses, with special attention to Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)—a protein particularly abundant in postsynaptic densities. Using computational modeling techniques, they simulated how these proteins interact and organize themselves under various conditions. Their model successfully reproduced the formation of the above-mentioned “droplet-inside-droplet” structures observed in earlier experiments. Through simulations and detailed analyses of the physical forces and chemical interactions involved, the research team shed light on a process called liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS); it involves proteins spontaneously organizing into condensates without membranes that sometimes resemble the organelles found inside cells.
Crucially, the researchers found that the distinctive “droplet-inside-droplet” structure appears as a result of competitive binding between the proteins and is significantly influenced by the shape of CaMKII, specifically its high valency (number of binding sites) and short linker length. These shape-related properties of CaMKII result in low surface tension and slow diffusion, allowing the protein condensates to remain stable for extended periods. This stability enables the sustained activation of downstream signaling pathways necessary for synaptic plasticity, which is the cellular basis for learning and memory. “Our results revealed new structure–function relationships for CaMKII as a synaptic memory unit. This is the first systematic and mechanistic study investigating the divergent structure of protein-regulated multiphase condensates,” highlights Dr. Pandey.
These findings could pave the way toward a better understanding of the possible mechanisms of memory formation in humans. However, the long-term implications of this research extend well beyond basic neuroscience.
Defects in synapse formation have been associated with numerous neurological and mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, and Rett syndrome. “Overall, the computational model developed in this study could serve as an important platform for investigating these conditions, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches,” explains Dr. Pandey.
Let us hope scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of how memories form at the molecular level, leading us to a more thorough comprehension of one of the brain’s most fundamental and complex functions.
RIR Power Electronics Names Perry Schugart as Global Marketing & Business Development Executive
Mumbai, April 16, 2025: RIR Power Electronics Limited, a leading manufacturer of high-power semiconductor devices and equipment announced the appointment of Perry Schugart as Global Marketing and Business Development Executive.
Mr. Schugart brings decades of experience in driving growth strategies, maximizing profitability and building sustainable competitive advantages across SMEs and Global 500 companies. His career is marked by remarkable achievements, including driving consistent revenue growth, achieving higher product margins and securing orders valued at over $500 million.
Perry Schugart
Commenting on the appointment, Dr. Harshad Mehta, Founder & Promoter of RIR Power Electronics Limited said, “Perry’s proven expertise in marketing and business development of over 20 years in semiconductor and power electronics will be instrumental in driving our global growth strategy. His dynamic leadership style and global network aligns perfectly with RIR’s vision to expand its footprint in the power semiconductor industry.”
On this occasion, Perry Schugart said, “I am honored to join RIR Power Electronics at such an exciting time in its journey. I look forward to leveraging my experience and network to drive innovative marketing strategies and accelerate business development globally.”
Prior to joining RIR Power Electronics Limited, Perry led marketing and business development activities for Microchip Technology’s Silicon Carbide (SiC) business unit, where he significantly enhanced brand visibility and market positioning. He has also held senior leadership roles at Silicon Power Corporation, Inficon, ABB and American Superconductor Corporation (AMSC), where his innovative approaches consistently delivered exceptional growth and market expansion.