A disorder named EPP, Erythropoietic Protoporphyria, a genetic mutation that affects oxygen in the blood and makes people allergic to the sun. Paw and his investigators discovered the genetic mutation that triggers EPP, spreads light on biological mechanisms that are responsible for all the vampire stories. In the case of EPP, type of protoporphyrin called protoporphrin IX accumulates in the red blood cells, plasma and sometimes the liver. Some genetic pathways leading to build-up of protoporphyrin IX have already been described, but many cases of EPP remain unexplained. "Although vampires aren't real, there is a real need for innovative therapies to improve the lives of people with porphyrias," concluded Paw.

Source: India Today September 07, 2017 14:03 UTC