The need for sustainable agriculture and a circular economy encourages the search for effective ways to utilize organic waste and transform it into valuable resources. Digestate, a by-product of anaerobic digestion of organic materials (biogas residue), is a promising organic fertilizer. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the quality of digestate obtained from a mixture of coffee, barley, and chicory waste, based on detailed biochemical studies. Purpose. The aim of the study was to assess the physicochemical properties of the digestate, the content of macro- and microelements, the amino acid profile, the potential presence of biostimulants, microbiological safety, and the concentration of heavy metals in comparison with regulatory requirements. Materials and Methods. The physicochemical and microbiological parameters of the digestate derived from a mixture of coffee, barley, and chicory wastes were analyzed using standard methods. Results. The obtained data indicate the agronomic feasibility and environmental safety of using this digestate as an organic fertilizer. The analysis of digestate derived from coffee, barley, and chicory wastes demonstrates its potential as a high-quality, safe, and multifunctional organic fertilizer that provides essential macro- and microelements, improves soil physicochemical and biological properties, and exhibits biostimulant activity. Conclusions. The digestate produced from a mixture of coffee, barley, and chicory wastes is an environmentally friendly, safe organic fertilizer with high agronomic potential and may be recommended for improving soil fertility and crop yields.
Aim. To investigate the morphoanatomical characteristics and genetic diversity of Danaus chrysippus across diverse ecological landscapes of Jharkhand, India, using an integrative morpho-molecular approach. Materials and Methods. Specimens were collected from nine sites across eight districts of Jharkhand. Morphoanatomical features, including wing patterns and genital structures, were examined using standard taxonomic procedures. Genomic DNA was extracted, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences were amplified and analyzed. Sequence data were submitted to DDBJ (accession IDs LC818942 to LC877969). Species identity was confirmed using BLASTn, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted in MEGA X using Maximum Likelihood (ML), Neighbor-Joining (NJ), and Minimum Evolution (ME) methods. Results. Morphological observations confirmed characteristic traits, including brush-footed forelegs, sexually dimorphic hindwing markings, and distinct male and female genital structures. CO1 sequences (509–698 bp) exhibited an AT-rich composition (mean A+T ≈ 69.9%). Pairwise genetic distances among most isolates were low (0.0000–0.0197), indicating high genetic uniformity. However, the Dumri isolate (LC877967) showed marked divergence (~0.14–0.146), suggesting the presence of an Evolutionarily Significant Unit (ESU). Phylogenetic analyses consistently grouped all other isolates into a single clade, while the Dumri isolate formed a distinct lineage. Conclusions. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of DNA barcoding in detecting genetic variation within D. chrysippus populations. The distinctiveness of the Dumri isolate highlights its potential evolutionary and conservation significance. These findings provide a baseline for future monitoring of butterfly genetic diversity in ecologically sensitive regions of Jharkhand.
Phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater is essential to prevent eutrophication and support the transition toward a circular economy. Efficient treatment requires not only compliance with discharge standards but also consideration of the potential for resource recovery. Aim. To analyze modern phosphorus removal technologies and to develop recommendations for process optimization using mathematical modeling. Methods. The study was based on the analysis of EU regulatory documents, Ukrainian standards, EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines, and scientific literature (2000-2026). Special attention was given to enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR), combined treatment systems, phosphorus recovery technologies, and modeling approaches such as ASM2d. Results. Chemical precipitation provides high phosphorus removal efficiency (up to 90–95%), but it also significantly increases sludge production. EBPR reduces sludge formation and operational costs but is sensitive to influent conditions. Systems that combine EBPR with chemical post-treatment achieve the highest efficiency (up to 99,6%) with a moderate increase in sludge (10-20%). Conclusions. The combination of biological phosphorus removal with chemical polishing is the most effective and economically viable solution. This approach enables phosphorus removal efficiencies exceeding 95% while minimizing sludge production and supporting resource recovery strategies.
Polyvalent human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a complex protein preparation obtained from human plasma and requires strict quality control to ensure safety and clinical efficacy. One important quality attribute is anticomplementary activity (ACA), which reflects the potential of immunoglobulin preparations to activate the complement system. Aim. The study aimed to assess the applicability of the Tris-glycine buffer as an alternative to the pharmacopoeial barbital buffer and to provide practical guidance for laboratories performing ACA testing. Methods. Тwo approaches for determining ACA were evaluated: the method described in the European Pharmacopeia (Ph. Eur.) and a modified procedure using a Tris-glycine buffer. Тwo approaches for determining ACA were evaluated: the method described in the European Pharmacopeia (Ph. Eur.) and a modified procedure using a Tris-glycine buffer. The tested immunoglobulins were obtained by fractionation of donor blood plasma (de-identified blood samples). Complement activity was evaluated by determining the degree of hemolysis of activated complement. ACA was assayed according to the method described in Ph. Eur. 01/2018:20617 by calculating the ratio of the activity of bound complement in the tested sample (solutions of the preparation and standard samples) to its output activity in the control sample. Data were analyzed using linear regression and a two-tailed Student's t-test (Microsoft Excel). Results. We tested the Tris-glycine buffer-based modification for the ACA assay. The methodology was effectively reproduced and verified to meet the requirements specified in the Ph. Eur. monograph 01/2018:20617. In addition, the workflow has been optimized, increasing analytical productivity by using deep-well plates instead of individual microtubes, reducing hands-on time, and improving reproducibility by minimizing operator-dependent variability. Ноwever, when barbital buffer is replaced with a Tris-glycine buffer, samples must be adjusted to pH 7.0 before analysis, as the buffering capacity of Tris-glycine is insufficient to maintain a stable pH in the reaction mixture. Under these conditions, all tested samples met the acceptance criteria, with ACA values below 50% (less than 1 CH50/mL per 1 mg of immunoglobulin), indicating minimal complement activation. Conclusion. The proposed modification represents a practical optimization of the known method, the AСA assay. It facilitates more efficient and reproducible testing in quality control laboratories, while maintaining compliance with established safety criteria for immunoglobulin G preparations.
Aims. To review the antimicrobial potential of Staphylococcus epidermidis, particularly its bacteriocins and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and to highlight their possible applications in human health, food preservation, aquaculture, and other industrial sectors. Methods. A literature-based review approach was adopted to analyze existing studies on S. epidermidis–derived antimicrobial compounds. Published research focusing on bacteriocins, AMPs, pathogen inhibition, strain safety, and potential applications across healthcare and non-healthcare sectors was examined. Results. Studies indicate that S. epidermidis produces potent antimicrobial compounds, including bacteriocins and AMPs, which exhibit strong pathogen-specific activity. These compounds demonstrate inhibitory effects against several pathogens, notably methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and show promise in managing skin infections, chronic wounds, and biofilm-associated infections. Although the bacterium is widely present in natural environments, its potential applications in food preservation and aquaculture remain underexplored. Furthermore, the dual nature of S. epidermidis as both a beneficial commensal and an opportunistic pathogen has limited its broader utilization. However, recent advances in strain selection and genetic studies have identified non-virulent strains, such as S. epidermidis YTPW-4, which lack major pathogenic traits and may be suitable for safe biotechnological applications. Conclusions. S. epidermidis–derived bacteriocins and AMPs represent promising antimicrobial agents with potential applications beyond healthcare, including sustainable food systems, aquaculture, and precision medicine. However, comprehensive safety assessments and further research are necessary to harness their therapeutic and industrial potential fully.
Aim. Laurocerasus officinalis, also known as cherry laurel, is frequently used in cancer treatment due to its high antioxidant capacity. Encapsulation technology aims to protect phenolic compounds from external factors, such as heat, light, and moisture, while preserving their bioactive properties. This study aimed to enhance the bioavailability of Laurocerasus officinalis fruit extract through starch-based encapsulation and to evaluate its cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and anti-migratory effects on the HCT-116 colorectal cancer cell line. Methods. Laurocerasus officinalis was encapsulated and characterized by FT-IR and SEM analyses. Cytotoxicity of cherry laurel extract encapsulation in HCT-116 cells was assessed using CVDK-8, cell migration by wound healing assay, and cell death by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Results. The TPC value of cherry laurel fruit was determined as 13407.05 mg GAE/kg, while the TPC value of the starch-encapsulated extract was obtained as 1216.67 mg GAE/kg. On the other hand, encapsulation of cherry laurel fruit extract demonstrated an antiproliferative effect, reducing HCT-116 cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Further analyses supported the finding that encapsulated cherry laurel extract reduced cell migration and increased apoptotic cell death. Conclusion. Overall, these findings suggest that the encapsulated Laurocerasus officinalis extract exhibits promising antiproliferative potential against HCT-116 cells; however, additional in vitro and in vivo studies are required to elucidate its mechanisms of action further and confirm its therapeutic efficacy.
Molecular compounds containing allotropic forms of carbon are intensively studied in various areas of science, such as nanobiotechnology, biomedicine, and pharmacology, for their practical application prospects. The most well-known carbon-based nanoparticles are the fullerene C60, a spherical cage with distinctive physical, chemical, and biological characteristics (stability, biocompatibility, and antioxidant, antitumor, and photosensitizing properties). However, understanding the mechanisms by which these particles influence the body's regulatory and integral systems is necessary to prevent potential human health risks in clinical practice. Aim. The impact of fullerene C60 on the cardiovascular system was examined, with particular focus on hemostasis, to assess its safety for biomedical applications. Methods. The study focused on the platelet, coagulation, anticoagulation, and fibrinolysis pathways of hemostasis. Results. Research indicates that fullerene C60 at therapeutic doses of 0.1 μM and 1.0 μM does not affect the functional activity, shape, or granularity of human platelets during co-cultivation. When present, measurements such as PTT, APTT, thrombin activity, factor Xa, plasma protein C, and the overall hemostatic potential of blood plasma remain stable. Conclusions. Fullerene C60 may be used in clinical settings as a bioinert carrier that interacts with blood at therapeutic doses without affecting or activating the hemostatic system.
Achalasia of the cardia and hiatal hernia share overlapping symptoms and require clarification of their underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, including a possible duodenogastroesophageal component of reflux. Saliva is an accessible, noninvasive biological medium that may reflect refluxate components and compensatory clearance responses. Aim. To compare mixed saliva parameters in a control group, in patients with achalasia, and in patients with hiatal hernia, and to identify the parameters most informative for assessing refluxate exposure and protective response. Materials and Methods. A comparative study was conducted in three independent groups: controls, achalasia (ICD-10 K22.0), and hiatal hernia (ICD-10 K44). Unstimulated mixed saliva collected in the morning under fasting conditions was analyzed. Salivary portion volume, pH, pepsin, glycoproteins, total calcium, NOx, and bile acids were determined. Between-group differences were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by pairwise comparisons with Dunn’s test and Bonferroni correction, or using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) post hoc test. Results. Two parameters were the most informative. Saliva volume was higher in patients with achalasia and hiatal hernia than in controls, with no difference between the clinical groups, suggesting an enhanced salivary clearance response. The concentration of bile acids in saliva was increased in both clinical groups relative to controls. It did not differ between achalasia and hiatal hernia, consistent with a possible contribution of the duodenal reflux component and indicating exposure to refluxate components. Salivary pH, pepsin, glycoproteins, total calcium, and NOx showed no statistically significant between-group differences, highlighting the specificity of changes in salivary parameters. Conclusions. Saliva volume and bile acids are promising noninvasive indicators that reflect the combined effects of refluxate exposure and compensatory protective mechanisms in esophageal diseases and may provide a basis for the further development of saliva-based biomarker strategies.
Amaranthus is a pseudocereal plant with a high content of proteins and fatty acids in its seeds, andpolyphenolic compounds and flavonoids in its leaves. Aim. To investigate the influence of extractant type, hydromodule, extraction time, temperature, and extraction method on the extraction of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids from A. retroflexus herb, A. hypochondriacus herb, and callus biomass. Methods. The content of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids was determined using a spectrophotometric method. Results. The optimal extraction conditions for A. retroflexus herb were a 40% and 80% aqueous ethanol solution, a hydromodule of 1:10, an extraction temperature of 20 ºC, and shaking at 100–200 rpm. For A. hypochondriacus callus biomass, the optimal conditions were a 40% aqueous ethanol solution and a hydromodule of 1:10. For A. hypochondriacus herb, the optimal conditions were a 50% aqueous ethanol solution, a hydromodule of 1:10, an extraction temperature of 30–40 °C, and magnetic stirring at 400 and 800 rpm for the maximum yield of flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds, respectively. Extraction was carried out for up to 270 h by static maceration. Conclusions. Optimal extraction parameters were established to ensure maximum yields of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids from A. retroflexus herb, A. hypochondriacus herb, and callus.
Pectinolytic enzymes are of considerable industrial importance because they degrade pectin in plant cell walls. Recently, increasing attention has been directed toward basidiomycetes, particularly the genus Trametes, which are capable of synthesizing complex enzymatic systems; however, their potential for pectinase production remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to investigate the growth and enzymatic activity of the basidiomycete Trametes hirsuta under surface and submerged cultivation in order to expand the biotechnological potential of these organisms as pectinase producers. Methods: The study involved six strains of the macromycete Trametes hirsuta deposited at the Institute of Botany of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. A peptone–yeast extract medium supplemented with pectin (solid nutrient medium) was used for surface cultivation. Mycelial growth was measured daily, and pectinase activity was assessed using a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)- based method. Submerged cultivation was performed in a glucose–peptone–yeast extract medium for 14 days, after which protein content, dry biomass, and pectinolytic enzyme activity were analyzed. Statistical analysis included Student’s t-test and Duncan’s multiple-range test using R and Excel. Results. The T. hirsuta strains 5018 and 5137 demonstrated more active growth on pectin-containing media. Overall, the overgrowth period ranged from 5 to 9 days, depending on the strain. The highest radial growth rate was recorded for strain T. hirsuta 1569 (10.25 mm/day). The pectinase activity index (PAI) was determined, with strain T. hirsuta 1569 exhibiting the highest value (1.08 ± 0.04), indicating its strong potential for pectinolytic enzyme synthesis. Conclusions. During submerged cultivation, strain T. hirsuta 1569 exhibited high polygalacturonase (1.28 ± 0.13 U/mL) and pectinesterase (0.31 ± 0.04 U/mL) activities. In contrast, strain T. hirsuta 338 exhibited significantly lower enzymatic activities and was therefore excluded from further experiments.
To determine the effect of an inoculant composed of Lentilactobacillus buchneri, Levilactobacillus brevis, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains on the fermentation characteristics of maize silage, as well as to assess its methane potential under standard anaerobic digestion conditions. Methods. The fermentation properties of the silage were evaluated using standard analytical methods for determining pH, dry matter, and key organic acids. Microbiological analysis was performed using quantitative plating on selective media to determine the counts of lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, molds, and clostridial microorganisms. The biogas potential was assessed after anaerobic digestion using activated sludge as the inoculum; the biogas volume and methane content were measured with a Bosean K-600 gas analyzer. Results. The use of the inoculant promoted more intensive lactic fermentation, as evidenced by a lower pH (3.78 vs. 4.15 in the control), a higher proportion of lactic acid (79.6% vs. 61.6%), and a lower proportion of acetic acid (24.2% vs. 36.9%). Butyric acid was not detected in either variant. The number of lactic acid bacteria exceeded spoilage microflora by almost fourfold, while no butyric acid-producing bacteria were registered. The application of L. buchneri and L. brevis contributed to the formation of acetic and propionic acids, thereby improving the aerobic stability of the silage after ensiling and during transfer of the ensiled biomass to anaerobic digestion. The experimental sample showed a reduction in yeast and mould counts (7.2×103 CFU/g vs. 3.5×104 CFU/g in the control). Methane fermentation demonstrated increased methane yield due to the higher lactic acid content in the biomass ensiled with the proposed starter composition, the improved buffering capacity of the mixture, and reduced dry matter losses. Conclusions. Inoculating maize silage with Lentilactobacillus buchneri, Levilactobacillus brevis, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains provides improved conditions for lactic fermentation of the ensiled maize mixture, enhances its organic acid profile, increases aerobic stability, and promotes the formation of a substrate with higher biogas potential. The obtained results demonstrate the feasibility of using such inoculants in silage production technologies for bioenergy purposes.
Quercetin is a well-known natural antioxidant with a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, including in oncology, cardiology, ophthalmology, and other areas. Quercetin's lipophilic nature limits its clinical use and necessitates the development of effective delivery systems. Liposomal forms of quercetin are being actively studied and improved. Aim. The article analyzes modern research on liposomal formulations of quercetin as a promising drug-delivery strategy. Materials and methods. Analysis of modern national and foreign research on the creation of liposomal forms of quercetin and the evaluation of the efficacy of this drug delivery system in the treatment of oncological, cardiological, viral, and other diseases accompanied by oxidative stress. To search for sources of information for the study, open-access electronic resources of scientific periodicals were used. Results. The development of liposomal quercetin formulations enabled increased bioavailability and expanded administration options, including injection. The use of liposomal quercetin in complex cancer therapy increased tumor growth inhibition while reducing side effects in healthy tissues. To improve the efficacy of quercetin delivery to tissues, it was proposed to modify liposome surfaces with hyaluronic acid, mycophenolic acid, polyethylene glycol, and magnetic particles. The possibility of using other carriers for quercetin delivery was demonstrated, including solid lipid nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, and polymers. Conclusions. Quercetin nanopreparations demonstrate high pharmacological efficacy and a significant increase in quercetin bioavailability, and their safety, biodegradability, and reduced toxicity are also important.
The production of protein and purified protein isolates from legumes using wet fractionation technology generates liquid starch-containing waste, a significant disposal problem. Such wastes can be considered feedstocks for biofuels, particularly bioethanol. In this way can be achieved a double effect: the valorisation of starch liquid wastes (SLW) and the partial replacement of food raw materials for energy needs. Aim. To investigate the possibility of preparing a complex nutrient medium using standardised SLW after pea fractionation with the addition of milled corn for further fermentation to produce bioethanol. Methods. Standardised SLW was obtained by the wet fractionation laboratory method; starch content was determined according to GSTU 46.045-2003, and protein content was determined by the Kjeldahl method in accordance with AOAC 979.09. Bioethanol was obtained in a laboratory fermenter using a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) process. The leading indicators in the fermented samples were determined using the methods specified in SOU 15.9-37-242:2005. Results. For all samples of combined wort with a concentration range of 25-29 % w/v dry matter (DM), the process can practically be completed in 72 hours. Еthanol content in the fermented wort was 10,6±0,05 – 12,1±0,05 % v/v for wort samples of the mentioned DM concentration. Conclusions. During the fermentation of combined wort, pea starch, which is also present in the wort, gives an increase in the ethanol concentration in the fermented wort. The final ethanol yield from combined wort starch is low (0,6±0,04 l/kg), lower than from corn starch (0.665 l/kg). For the development of Very High Gravity (VHG) fermentation technology, it is necessary to select appropriate enzymes and parameters for the hydrofermentative preparation of combined wort.
The study of the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria isolated from sour brewing wort is a promising direction for developing new functional fermented products, as these strains may exhibit enhanced antagonistic activity and improved survival under stress conditions. Aim. To isolate, identify, and determine selected probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria derived from sour brewing wort. Methods. The following method was used to prepare the brewing wort. Isolation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains was carried out from brewing wort that had been spontaneously fermented for 12 months. Identification was performed using physiological and biochemical analyses of LAB metabolic characteristics. Antagonistic activity of the isolate was assessed using the well-diffusion method, antibiotic susceptibility by the disk-diffusion method, and adhesive properties by spectrophotometry. Enzymatic activities were determined qualitatively. Results. A culture of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus isolated from brewing wort was identified. Its strong antagonistic effect against the test culture, S. aureus, was demonstrated, with an inhibition zone of 30.0 ± 0.10 mm. Resistance to aminoglycosides and penicillins was established, consistent with the typical antibiotic susceptibility profile of LAB. Adhesion indicators – autoaggregation and hydrophobicity – were 44.80 ± 2.62% and 46.20 ± 3.00%, respectively. No studied enzymatic activities were observed. Conclusions. Lpb. Pentosus isolated from sour brewing wort exhibits antagonism toward S. aureus, resistance to aminoglycosides, penicillins, and glycopeptides, moderate autoaggregation, and high cell wall hydrophobicity. The studied enzymatic activities were not detected. The results indicate potential probiotic activity and the need for further studies on stress tolerance.
Aim. To identify fungal phytopathogens from soybean roots and evaluate the antagonistic activity of Trichoderma spp. isolates alongside the antifungal efficacy of Streptomyces-based bioproducts against them. Methods. Fungi were isolated on Czapek-Dox agar (HiMedia) and identified based on morphological and cultural features. The antagonistic potential of Trichoderma spp. was assessed via dual culture, while the antifungal efficacy of commercial bioproducts was determined using the agar diffusion method. Results. Root mycobiota analysis revealed that Fusarium root rot is the dominant disease, caused by a complex of six species with F. solani prevailing (12.2–42.3%). In pesticide-free fields, natural regulation of F. solani by Trichoderma fungi was observed, whereas in commercial production, the presence of mycoparasites was negligible. Other pathogens (C. cassiicola, Ph. sojae, S. sclerotiorum) were harmful but localized. Efficient Trichoderma isolates and commercial bioproducts were screened for their ability to suppress pathogens. Conclusions. Isolated Trichoderma strains exhibit significant antagonistic activity, particularly against F. oxysporum (70.9%). While Streptomyces-based bioproducts show limited antifungal efficacy against F. solani, they remain effective against other associated phytopathogens.
Aim. To conduct a systematic analysis of the structural and functional characteristics and strategic development priorities of the South Korean dietary supplement industry (nutraceuticals, parapharmaceuticals, and cosmeceuticals), identifying the impact of leading corporations, regulatory mechanisms, and technological innovations on the global competitiveness of the national bioindustry. Materials and Methods. The study applied methodological analysis and literature-based data processing to assess the development of dietary supplement technologies within South Korea’s bioindustry. The evaluation framework accounted for factors such as globalization, digitalization, and regulatory alignment with international standards, with particular focus on the role of both domestic and transnational manufacturers. The findings emphasize the dynamic nature of biotechnological applications in the nutraceutical sector, offering insights relevant for potential adaptation in other markets, including Ukraine. Results. The study examines the current state of the Korean health product market, categorized into nutraceutical, parapharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical segments. It highlights the industry's growth dynamics and its integration into the broader healthcare ecosystem. The market portfolios and strategic maneuvers of leading corporations are analyzed, showcasing the synergy between advanced biotechnology and traditional phytotherapy for anti-aging and health promotion. The findings suggest that stringent government regulation and national innovation strategies are pivotal factors driving the successful global expansion of Korean manufacturers. Conclusion. The comprehensive analysis confirms that the synergy of biotechnological innovation, clear regulatory frameworks, and a robust corporate sector forms a unique model for the development of South Korea's dietary supplement market, positioned for global leadership.
Aim. To evaluate the potential interactions of short-chain aliphatic aminocarboxylic compounds with key coronavirus proteases—the main protease (Mpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and IBV—using molecular docking. Methods. Hort-chain aminocarboxylic compounds were used as ligands. Initial structures were obtained from PubChem or built in Avogadro/MarvinSketch, followed by 3D optimization, verification of protonation at pH 7.4, correction of charge states, and conversion to .mol2 format (OpenBabel) for compatibility with SwissDock. Docking was performed using experimental 3D structures of Mpro and PLpro of SARS-CoV-2 and IBV from the PDB. Structure preparation and analysis were carried out in Avogadro, MarvinSketch, OpenBabel, the PubChem 3D Conformer Generator, SwissDock (EADock DSS/AutoDock Vina), and PyMOL. Results. Aliphatic aminocarboxylic compounds exhibited moderate binding affinity toward Mpro (ΔG from −3.0 to −4.3 kcal/mol), with docking poses predominantly localized in peripheral hydrophobic pockets rather than stably in the catalytic region. Longer-chain ligands, including 7-aminoheptanoic and 8-aminocaprylic acids, showed more stable binding. Extension of the carbon chain enhanced hydrophobic packing and stabilized binding within an Mpro pocket. The non-ionized form of 6-aminocaproic acid bound more favorably than its hydrochloride, consistent with reduced affinity under strong ionization. Conclusions. Docking indicated moderate binding and predominantly peripheral localization of complexes. Longer chains improve docking scores, whereas strong ionization impairs binding. Conserved Mpro architecture between SARS-CoV-2 and IBV supports the use of IBV as a safer screening model. The most reliable in vitro candidates were identified as 4-aminobutyric acid and 6-aminocaproic acid.
Aim. Searching for efficient biocompatible sorbents that possess zero neurotoxicity is an actual task. Biochars are auspicious carbon materials for the adsorption of heavy metals in the environment, wastewater, and also in human organisms. Methods. Biochar from sunflower seed husk (SB) was synthesized by pyrolysis at 800 OC without special functionalization. Neurotoxicity risk of SB was assessed in an animal model using resynaptic nerve terminals isolated from rat cortex (synaptosomes). Results. It was shown in radiolabelled experiments that SB did not change the synaptosomal mbient levels of the excitatory neurotransmitter L-[3H] glutamate and inhibitory neurotransmitter [3H] GABA within the concentration range 0.25–1.0 mg/ml. In the fluorimetric experiments using the dye JC-1, SB at a concentration of 1.0 mg/ml did not change the mitochondrial membrane potential of the nerve terminals. Conclusions. SB demonstrated the absence of neurotoxicity signs and high biocompatibility, and therefore, SB has the potential to be used as an adsorbent in biotechnology and medicine.
Aim. To analyze the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic features of the latest biologics for the correction of posttraumatic stress disorder, and to assess their therapeutic potential for personalized medicine. Мethods. The study employs general scientific approaches, including analysis, synthesis, and abstraction of scientific papers related to neurobiology, psychopharmacology, and microbiology, which were identified through an Internet search using the electronic databases Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results. PTSD is associated with dysregulation of neurotransmitter systems, hyperactivity of the amygdala, reduced activity of the prefrontal cortex, and disorders of the gut-brain axis. The latest biologics, such as BNC210, which modulates the cholinergic system, and probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium), which affect the microbiome, demonstrate high efficacy. Biologics have a rapid onset of action (6–8 weeks for probiotics) and minimal side effects. However, high cost and limited clinical trial data are significant barriers. Conclusions. Biologics offer new perspectives for the treatment of PTSD due to their unique mechanisms of action and safety. Their potential in personalized medicine, in particular through modulation of the individual microbiome, is promising. Further research and optimization of dosage will facilitate the integration of biologics into standard treatment protocols, improving treatment efficacy and quality of life for patients.
Aim. The objective of this study is to identify key protein targets involved in the metabolism, regulation, and transport of biosurfactants. Target selection was based on a comprehensive analysis of biological databases and scientific literature. The identified proteins are essential for biosurfactant biosynthesis and will serve as the foundation for subsequent investigations using reverse molecular docking. Methods. Protein targets were identified through open-access biological databases, including RCSB PDB and UniProt, with a focus on microorganisms recognized as biosurfactant producers. Relevant literature was analyzed to validate the functional roles of specific proteins in biosurfactant metabolism. Selection criteria encompassed proteins directly involved in enzymatic synthesis, transport pathways, and gene expression regulation associated with biosurfactant production. Results. Eight protein targets were identified as being associated with biosurfactant synthesis. Functional annotation and literature validation confirmed their relevance to microbial biosurfactant metabolism. Conclusion. These findings provide a solid basis for further research, including computational modeling and experimental validation, to clarify the roles of the identified proteins in biosurfactant production. The study underscores the importance of integrating electronic databases with literature analysis to identify potential biomolecular targets for future biotechnological applications.
