This article presents a machine learning workflow allowing to construct spectrophotometric equations predicting nitrate and nitrite concentrations within microalgae culture samples. First, numerous samples with various nitrate and nitrite concentrations (in mixture or separated) were drawn from cultures. Their UV absorbance spectra were recorded with a tabletop spectrophotometer before being analyzed using ion chromatography. Then, the data collected were used to construct a machine leaning model based on partial least square regression. From a practical perspective, the best model involves 3 wavelengths to quantify both nitrate and nitrite within the samples. The proposed equations can readily be used (LoQ of 0.5 mg L??1, uncertainty of ± 10%). They greatly shorten the time to obtain sample nitrate and nitrite concentrations compared to ion chromatography while retaining adequate accuracy. Furthermore, the workflow is presented step-wise, with emphasis on relevant details so that other scholars may deploy in their own laboratory to best suit their own needs. Finally, the data and source files are made available in an online repository.
Model generation workflow and associated data management.
In utero hyperglycemia has consequences on future outcomes in the offsprings. We had earlier shown that in utero hyperglycemia impacts proteoglycans/glycosaminoglycans, one of the key molecules involved in brain development. Hypothalamic HSPGs such as syndecan-1 and syndecan-3 are well known for their involvement in feeding behavior. Therefore, studies were carried out to determine the effect of maternal hyperglycemia on the expression of HSPGs in the hypothalamus of offspring brain. Results revealed increased protein abundance of Syndecan-1 and -3 as well as glypican-1 in postnatal adults from hyperglycemic mothers. This was associated with increased hyperphagia and increased expression of Neuropeptide Y. These results indicate the likely consequences on offsprings exposed to in utero hyperglycemia on its growth.
Graphical abstractResveratrol (RES) is a polyphenol with increasing interest for its inhibitory effects on a wide variety of viruses. Zika virus (ZIKV) is an arbovirus which causes a broad spectrum of ophthalmological manifestations in humans. Currently there is no certified therapy or vaccine to treat it, thus it has become a major global health threat. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is highly permissive and susceptible to ZIKV. This work explored the protective effects of RES on ZIKV-infected human RPE cells. RES treatment resulted in a significant reduction of infectious viral particles in infected male ARPE-19 and female hTERT-RPE1 cells. This protection was positively influenced by the action of RES on mitochondrial dynamics. Also, docking studies predicted that RES has a high affinity for two enzymes of the rate-limiting steps of pyrimidine and purine biosynthesis and viral polymerase. This evidence suggests that RES might be a potential antiviral agent to treat ZIKV-induced ocular abnormalities.
Graphic abstractIn this paper, we study the postcranial morphology (humerus, ulna, innominate, femur, tibia, astragalus, navicular, and metatarsal III) of Neoepiblema, a giant Late Miocene South American rodent, searching for evidence about its paleobiology based on unpublished specimens from Solimões Formation (Upper Miocene, Brazil). The study includes a morphofunctional analysis of the postcranial bones and a comparison with extant and extinct rodents, especially Phoberomys. The morphofunctional analysis of the postcranial bones suggests that Neoepiblema (as well as Phoberomys) would have a crouched forelimb that was not fully extended, with powerful pectoral and triceps musculature, and able to produce movements of pronation/supination and possibly with a hand able to grasp. The combination of characters of the innominate bone, femur, and tibia indicates a predominance of parasagittal movements and a thigh with powerful musculature used during propulsion. In sum, the analyzed postcranial features are consistent with the limb morphology of ambulatory rodents, but with faculty to dig or swim. The sedimentary evidence of the localities in which fossils of neoepiblemids have been found suggests that these rodents lived in wet and water-related environments (near swamps, lakes, and/or rivers).
Graphical abstractAbnormal expression of claudin-1 (CLDN1) has important roles in carcinogenesis and metastasis in various cancers. The role of CLDN1 in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unknown. Here, we report the functional role of CLDN1 in metastasis of human OSCC, as a potential target regulated by withaferin A. From gene expression profiling with microarray technology, we found that the majority of notable differentially expressed genes were classified into migration/invasion category. Withaferin A impaired the motility of human OSCC cells in vitro and suppressed metastatic nodule formation in an in vivo metastasis model, both associated with reduced CLDN1. CLDN1 overexpression enhanced metastatic nodule formation in vivo, resulting in severe metastatic lesions in lung tissue. Moreover, CLDN1 expression was positively correlated to lymphatic metastasis in OSCC patients. The impaired motility of human OSCC cells upon withaferin A treatment was restored by CLDN1 overexpression. Furthermore, upregulation of let-7a induced by withaferin A was inversely correlated to CLDN1 expression. Overall, these give us an insight into the function of CLDN1 for prognosis and treatment of human OSCC, substantiating further investigation into the use of withaferin A as good anti-metastatic drug candidate.
Graphical abstractThe increased phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance and the slow pace of development of new antibiotics are at the base of a global health concern regarding microbial infections. Antibiotic resistance kills an estimated 700,000 people each year worldwide, and this number is expected to increase dramatically if efforts are not made to develop new drugs or alternative containment strategies. Increased vaccination coverage, improved sanitation or sustained implementation of infection control measures are among the possible areas of action. Indeed, vaccination is one of the most effective tools of preventing infections. Starting from 1970s polysaccharide-based vaccines against Meningococcus, Pneumococcus and Haemophilus influenzae type b have been licensed, and provided effective protection for population. However, the development of safe and effective vaccines for infectious diseases with broad coverage remains a major challenge in global public health. In this scenario, nanosystems are receiving attention as alternative delivery systems to improve vaccine efficacy and immunogenicity. In this report, we provide an overview of current applications of glyconanomaterials as alternative platforms in the development of new vaccine candidates. In particular, we will focus on nanoparticle platforms, used to induce the activation of the immune system through the multivalent-displacement of saccharide antigens.
Graphical abstractReigning of the abnormal gene activation associated with survival signalling in lung cancer leads to the anomalous growth and therapeutic failure. Targeting specific cell survival signalling like JAK2/STAT3 nexus has become a major focus of investigation to establish a target specific treatment. The 2-bromobenzoyl-4-methylphenoxy-acetyl hydra acetyl Coumarin (BP-1C), is new anti-neoplastic agent with apoptosis inducing capacity. The current study was aimed to develop antitumor phramacophore, BP-1C as JAK2 specific inhibitor against lung neoplastic progression. The study validates and identifies the molecular targets of BP-1C induced cell death. Cell based screening against multiple cancer cell lines identified, lung adenocarcinoma as its specific target through promotion of apoptosis. The BP-1C is able to induce, specific hall marks of apoptosis and there by conferring anti-neoplastic activity. Validation of its molecular mechanism, identified, BP-1C specifically targets JAK2Tyr1007/1008 phosphorylation, and inhibits its downstream STAT3Tyr705 signalling pathway to induce cell death. As a consequence, modulation in Akt/Src survival signal and altered expression of interwoven apoptotic genes were evident. The results were reproducible in an in-vivo LLC tumor model and in-ovo xenograft studies. The computational approaches viz, drug finger printing confers, BP-1C as novel class JAK2 inhibitor and molecular simulations studies assures its efficiency in binding with JAK2. Overall, BP-1C is a novel JAK2 inhibitor with experimental evidence and could be effectively developed into a promising drug for lung cancer treatment.
Graphical abstractAn efficient in vitro propagation system has been developed for the rapid micropropagation of Thymus serpyllum L. (Banajwain), an aromatic medicinal herb from nodal explant on MS medium. Phenolic leaching and high rate of contamination was the most significant problem in establishing in vitro culture of Thymus serpyllum which was overcome by preparing explants in an antioxidant ascorbic acid (1000 ppm) at 6°C for 45 min and addition of the same antioxidant (50 mgl−1) to the MS medium. The frequency of shoot production was influenced by different cytokinins (Kn, BAP, and Kn + BAP) and 95.56% shoot induction was observed when MS medium was supplemented with 1.0 + 2.0 mgl−1 (Kn + BAP). The maximum average number of shoots 16.93 ± 2.15 and average length (3.98 ± 0.55) was recorded when MS medium have 0.5 + 2.0 mgl−1 (Kn + BAP). The in vitro regenerated microshoots were rooted on MS and half strength MS medium and there was significant difference in root induction on both media under the influence of auxins (IAA, IBA, and NAA). The maximum average number (11.67 ± 3.03) and average root length (3.88 ± 0.71) was reported in half MS medium having 1.0 mgl−1 IBA. The complete regenerated plantlets were acclimatized under growth chamber before transferring to the earthen pots and showed 90% survival.
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This study aimed to screen, characterize, and annotate the genome along with the comparison of GABA synthesis genes presented in lactic acid bacteria (LAB).
ResultsThirty-five LAB isolates from fermented foods were screened for GABA production using thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Fifteen isolates produced GABA ranging from 0.07 to 22.94 g/L. Based on their GTG5 profiles, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics, isolates LSI1-1, LSI1-5, LSI2-1, LSI2-2, LSI2-3, LSI2-5, and LSM3-1-4 were identified as Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum; isolate LSM1-4 was Lactobacillus argentoratensis; isolates CAB1-2, CAB1-5, CAB1-7, and LSI1-4 were Lactobacillus pentosus; and CAB1-1, LSM3-1-1 and LSM3-2-3 were Lactobacillus fermentum. Strains LSI2-1 and CAB1-7 from pickled vegetables were selected for genome analysis. The gadA gene (1410 bp, 470aa) was encountered in GABA production of both strains and no other glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) genes were found in the genomes when compared with other LAB strains. The presence of gadA is evidence for GABA production. Strains LSI2-1 and CAB1-7 produced 22.94 g/L and 11.59 g/L of GABA in GYP broth supplemented with 3% (w/v) MSG at 30 °C for 72 h, respectively.
ConclusionsOur report highlights the characterization of LAB and GABA production of L. plantarum LSI2-1 strain with its GABA synthesis gene.
Graphic abstractGABA production of strains LSI2-1 and CAB1-7 in GYP broth with 3% (w/v) MSG and comparative GAD genes
Dendrimeric copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) were prepared by the reduction of [Cu2(CH3CO2)4] with ascorbic acid at 75 °C in the presence of ranelate ions. The metallic nanoparticles exhibited a strong plasmonic band centered at 581 nm, and their average size distribution was typically in the range of 20–30 nm. By adding polyvinylpyrrolidone to the reaction mixture, the growth of the initial copper nanoparticles was hindered. Their sizes were stabilized around 1.8 nm, leading to spherical agglomerates of about 50 nm. Upon green light excitation, the agglomerates exhibited yellow-orange fluorescence emission, keeping the surface plasmon resonance band at 581 nm. This dual behavior suggested the occurrence of collective plasmonic resonance and efficient energy transfer within the agglomerated nanoparticles, in order to account for the observed fluorescence in the system.
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The present work aimed to investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound healing potential of ethyl acetate fraction from Bauhinia ungulata L. (FABU) on in vitro and in vivo models. Wound healing assay using human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line was employed to evaluate the ability of FABU in modulating cell migration. In addition, a surgical wound model in C57BL/6 mice was used to study the healing potential of FABU incorporated into gel carbomer 940 (Carbopol®). Evaluation of lipid peroxidation, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediator gene expression, rate of wound closure, and histological analysis were done. FABU significantly reduced the gap area in in vitro wound healing assay, 24 h after treatment. In the animal model, FABU at 0.5% topically applied once-daily for 5 days to the surgical wounds significantly reduced the lesion area. Moreover, it significantly decreased the levels of lipid peroxidation in the lesions and decreased the relative gene expression levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in the injured region. In conclusion, our study suggests that Bauhinia ungulata can effectively promote the wound healing, probably by regulating the inflammatory environment during the early stages of the process.
Graphic abstractPfaffia glomerata possesses potential pharmacological and medicinal properties, mainly owing to the secondary metabolite 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). Increasing production of biomass and 20E is important for industrial purposes. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of irradiance on plant morphology and production of 20E in P. glomerata grown in vitro. Nodal segments of accessions 22 and 43 (Ac22 and Ac43) were inoculated in culture medium containing MS salts and vitamins. Cultures were maintained at 25 ± 2 °C under a 16-h photoperiod and subjected to irradiance treatments of 65, 130, and 200 μmol m−2 s−1 by fluorescent lamps. After 30 days, growth parameters, pigment content, stomatal density, in vitro photosynthesis, metabolites content, and morphoanatomy were assessed. Notably, Ac22 plants exhibited 10-fold higher 20E production when cultivated at 200 μmol m−2 s−1 than at 65 μmol m−2 s−1, evidencing the importance of light quantity for the accumulation of this metabolite. 20E production was twice as high in Ac22 as in Ac43 plants although both accessions responded positively to higher irradiance. Growth under 200 μmol m−2 s−1 stimulated photosynthesis and consequent biomass accumulation, but lowered carotenoids and anthocyanins. Furthermore, increasing irradiance enhanced the number of palisade and spongy parenchyma cells, enhancing the overall growth of P. glomerata.
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Poor quality and quantity of sleep are very common in elderly people throughout the world. Growing evidence has suggested that sleep disturbances could accelerate the process of neurodegeneration. Recent reports have shown a positive correlation between sleep deprivation and amyloid-β (Aβ)/tau aggregation in the brain of Alzheimer’s patients. Glial cells have long been implicated in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and recent findings have also suggested their role in regulating sleep homeostasis. However, how glial cells control the sleep–wake balance and exactly how disturbed sleep may act as a trigger for Alzheimer’s or other neurological disorders have recently gotten attention. In an attempt to connect the dots, the present review has highlighted the role of glia-derived sleep regulatory molecules in AD pathogenesis.
Graphical AbstractRole of glia in sleep disturbance and Alzheimer’s progression.
The mushrooms have contributed to the development of active ingredients of fundamental importance in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry as well as of important tools in human and animal health, nutrition, and functional food. This review considers studies on the beneficial effects of medicinal mushrooms on the nutrition and health of humans and farm animals. An overview of the chemical structure and composition of mycochemicals is presented in this review with particular reference to phenolic compounds, triterpenoids and sterols, fatty acids and lipids, polysaccharides, proteins, peptides, and lectins. The nutritional value and chemical composition of wild and cultivated mushrooms in Italy is also the subject of this review which also deals with mushrooms as nutraceuticals and the use of mushrooms in functional foods. The nutraceutical benefits of UV irradiation of cultivated species of basidiomycetes to generate high amounts of vitamin D2 is also highlighted and the ability of the muhsrooms to inhibit glycation is analyzed. Finally, attention is paid to studies on bioactivities of some Italian wild and cultivated mushrooms with particular reference to species belonging to the genus Pleurotus. The review highlights the potential of medicinal mushrooms in the production of mycochemicals that represent a source of drugs, nutraceutical, and functional food.
Graphic abstractInsulin resistance as a major problem is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study investigated the effect of Eryngium billardierei on insulin-resistance induced HepG2 cells.
Methods and resultsMTT method was used to evaluate the viability of HepG2 cells treated with various doses of E. billardierei extract. An insulin-resistance model was established in HepG2 cells. Next, MTT assay and Acridine orange staining were performed to investigate the viability of cells in the vicinity of different concentrations of insulin, pioglitazone, and E. billardierei extract in an insulin-resistance media. The glucose uptake test was performed to select the optimal insulin concentration. Expression levels of IR, G6Pase, and PEPCK genes were assessed by real-time RT-PCR. According to obtained data, E. billardierei at concentrations of 0.5 and 1 mg/mL show no toxicity on cells. Furthermore, based on MTT assay and glucose uptake test 10?5 mol/L insulin was chosen as the model group to induce insulin-resistance in HepG2 cells for gene expression analysis. Finally, 1 mg/mL E. billardierei not only induced no cytotoxicity but also showed an increase in the expression of IR as well as a reduction in G6Pase and PEPCK level compared to the control and model groups.
ConclusionsThe obtained data indicated that 1 mg/mL E. billardierei might have an anti-insulin resistance effect on insulin-resistance HepG2 cells in vitro and could be a promising candidate with anti-hyperglycemic properties for diabetes treatments.
Graphical abstractIt is considered a significant challenge to understand the neuronal cell death mechanisms with a suitable cure for neurodegenerative disorders in the coming years. Calpains are one of the best-considered “cysteine proteases activated” in brain disorders. Calpain is an important marker and mediator in the pathophysiology of neurodegeneration. Calpain activation being the essential neurodegenerative factor causing apoptotic machinery activation, it is crucial to develop reliable and effective approaches to prevent calpain-mediated apoptosis in degenerating neurons. It has been recently seen that the “inhibition of calpain activation” has appeared as a possible therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic literature review of PubMed, Medline, Bentham, Scopus, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was conducted. The present article reviews the basic pathobiology and role of selective calpain inhibitors used in various neurodegenerative diseases as a therapeutic target.
Graphical Abstract