Background:The application of different light emitting diodes (LED) light colors in plant micropropagation is gaining prominence based on the morphological and physiological responses of plants when exposed to specific wavelengths and intensities of light. This study aimed to determine the effects of red, white, and blue LED light on the micropropagation of pascuita (Euphorbia leucocephala Lotsy), an ornamental plant native to Mexico and Central America. Materials and methods:Under in vitro conditions, the effects of the above mentioned three LED light colors at 90 µmol m-2/s-1 intensity were evaluated on callus formation, shoot induction, and plant growth. In the second phase, using the shoots developed in the previous stage, the influence of the three LED light colors on in vitro root induction was evaluated with or without indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) addition. Results:Red light enhanced callus induction and growth, with plant responses observed from the initial days of culture, while blue light favored shoot formation. During the rooting phase, red light demonstrated superior efficacy by inducing the highest number of roots, achieving a 100% rooting rate, regardless of IAA presence. Conclusions:The use of different LED light colors during pascuita micropropagation is an effective tool to modulate plant responses throughout the various stages of regeneration.
Background:Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease involving complex immune pathways. Natural compounds derived from Aloe vera are attracting increasing attention for their potential in the treatment of dermatological disorders. Materials and methods:A virtual screening of 110 A. vera-derived phytoconstituents was performed against three key protein targets implicated in AD: interleukin-4 receptor alpha, Janus kinase 1, and phosphodiesterase 4D. The top-ranked compounds were further assessed using absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties to evaluate drug-likeness and safety profiles. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations over 100 ns were conducted to examine the structural stability of the selected ligand-protein complexes. Results:Quercetin and kaempferol showed the highest binding affinities across all three targets. ADMET analysis confirmed their favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. MD simulations revealed stable and compact protein-ligand interactions, supporting their potential as multitarget inhibitors of AD. Conclusions:Quercetin and kaempferol from A. vera emerge as promising multitarget lead candidates for AD treatment, particularly for topical therapeutic applications. These findings warrant further in vitro and in vivo validation to support their potential clinical translation.
Background:Limited attention paid to acne vulgaris has hindered progress in studying its pathological mechanisms and developing new treatments. While direct evidence confirming Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) as the initial trigger of acne vulgaris is scarce, the bacterium clearly drives inflammation within acne lesions. Materials and methods:Mass spectrometric analysis demonstrated that C. acnes lipase digested triglycerides into various fatty acids, which increased sebum production in sebocytes. The secretory lipase was selected as an immunogenic antigen to generate antibodies in mice. Serum from mice vaccinated with C. acnes lipase was used to assess antibody titers via test strips. Pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 (IL-6) and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) expression were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Passive immunization with neutralization antibodies to lipase was conducted by administering anti-lipase serum co-cultured with C. acnes. Results:Palmitic acid, a lipase-derived fatty acid, was identified as a major pro-inflammatory stimulus in sebocytes, confirming the central role of lipase in acne inflammation. Mice vaccinated with C. acnes lipase showed protection against C. acnes-induced inflammation in an ear model. Therefore, neutralization antibodies to lipase significantly reduced C. acnes-induced production of pro-inflammatory IL-6 and MIP-2. Conclusions:The C. acnes secretory lipase is a key virulence factor contributing to acne inflammation. Vaccination with C. acnes lipase significantly reduced bacterial colonization and the production of pro-inflammatory IL-6 and MIP-2. These findings support the potential of C. acnes lipase-targeted vaccines as a novel, antigen-specific strategy for both the treatment and prevention of acne vulgaris.
Mucormycosis (the “black fungus infection”) is a life-threatening angioinvasive fungal infection caused by opportunistic fungi of the class Mucormycetes. A lot of clinical exercises were made in the post-coronavirus disease 2019 period due to admission of patients suffering from so called “black fungus disease”. Many of patients had been operated for excision of their vital organs, colonized with massive fungal mycelia to restrict further invasion. In these circumstances, this apt article endeavour to scrutinize and debate some of the viable factors and prospective mechanisms that can assist to understand and elucidate the enigma of sudden, steep and deadly upsurge of mucormycosis infection. Here we review the specific contribution of high-throughput next-generation sequencing and multi-omics-based approaches to the general knowledge and understanding of Mucormycetes and further detail about the most exciting discoveries pertaining to the recently identified genetic advancements in Mucormycetes and mucormycosis. Through the use of a few genetic study models virulence factors in Mucormycetes that were previously unknown have been identified. Most remarkably, new research has opened up new possibilities for developing novel treatments against mucormycosis by identifying novel genes and process governing the pathogenic potential of Mucormycetes and their interaction with host. Ultimately virulence investigations in Mucormycetes that were previously hindered are now possible with new study models indicating a promising future for the field leading to the development of therapies to treat mucormycosis.
Background:Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) has re-emerged as a prominent etiological agent of pneumonia and systemic infection, with extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains posing considerable therapeutic challenges. Moreover, vaccines may have limited efficacy because of the emergence of variant strains. The yidRv gene encodes a protein linked to excessive adherence and is conserved in over 99% of KP isolates. The present study aimed to explore the ability of a rec-YidRv protein to stimulate humoral and cellular immune response in vitro and in vivo. Materials and methods:The capability of the purified rec-YidRv protein to induce antibody synthesis was tested using a mice model. We also assessed whether rec-YidRv could successfully trigger the proliferation of splenocytes and the synthesis of their cytokines. Furthermore, the capacity of antigen to protect mice from ESBL-producing KP strain infection was investigated. Results:In vitro and in vivo analyses revealed that mice immunized with rec-YidRv generated a strong antibody and memory response. Compared to non-stimulated controls, immunized mice showed an increase in measurable KP-directed immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels, with elevated IgG1 and IgG2b fractions; additionally, splenocyte proliferation expanded by 5-fold. Infection of mice with a lethal dose of KP following immunization markedly extended animal survival and decreased the pathogen's ability to form ventricular biofilms. Conclusions:The rec-YidRv elicited robust antibody responses and a moderate expansion of cellular activity. Rec-YidRv is an effective protein-only platform for inhibiting infection by antibiotic-resistant KP. Future studies should incorporate refined adjuvants and improved administration methods to enhance protective responses.
Nano-biosensors represent innovative analytical devices that couple nanotechnology with biomolecular recognition elements to detect specific targets with high sensitivity and selectivity. By incorporating nanomaterials such as gold, carbon, or metal oxides, these devices exhibit enhanced conductivity, larger surface areas, and improved electron transfer, thereby enabling rapid and accurate detection even at ultralow concentrations. Electrochemical nano-biosensors are particularly advantageous for medical diagnostics, health monitoring, and environmental applications because they convert bioreceptor-analyte interactions into measurable real-time electrical signals. Due to their ability to monitor key biomarkers, including neurotransmitters, these sensors hold immense promise for early disease diagnosis, therapeutic monitoring, and neurological research. This review highlights current trends in the development of nanomaterial-enhanced electrochemical sensors for neurotransmitter detection, focuses on their performance and clinical translation potential, and outlines future directions to address challenges in selectivity, stability, and large-scale manufacturing.
Background:The present study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory capability of 10 pyrazole-usnic acid derivatives against dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) NS2B/NS3 serine protease. The crystallographic structure model of the protease enzyme (PDB code: 2FOM) was used to conduct molecular docking studies of pyrazole-usnic acid derivatives with target proteins. Computational analysis was performed using the Molecular Operating Environment program, Gaussian View software, and ADMETLab platform. Materials and methods:The inhibitory potential of the derivatives was tested by molecular docking using panduratin A as the positive control, together with density functional theory, molecular electrostatic potential analysis, drug-likeness assessment, and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) profiling. Results:Among the tested derivatives, compounds 5 and 6 exhibited the most promising inhibitory effects against DENV-2 NS2B/NS3 serine protease. The binding free energy values for these compounds were -7.320 and -7.477 kcal/mol, respectively. These two compounds shared multiple amino acid residues with panduratin A, which was used as a reference inhibitor. Compounds 5 and 6 also displayed negative electrostatic regions surrounding their oxygen atoms, with gap energies of 0.133 and 0.137 eV and dipole moment values of 3.237 and 2.806 D, respectively. Conclusions:These computational findings suggest that compounds 5 and 6 may serve as preliminary candidates for dengue virus inhibition. However, further clinical and experimental studies are required to confirm their efficacy and safety.
Background:As society rapidly ages, the escalating global demand for natural, high-value antioxidants - particularly ketocarotenoids such as canthaxanthin - is driving intensive research into their sustainable bioproduction. This study investigates the potential of the green microalga Chlorosarcinopsis PY02 as a novel microbial cell factory for enhanced ketocarotenoid production under abiotic stress conditions. Materials and methods:We optimized bioprocess parameters using a simple, spot-test-based high-throughput screening technique, evaluating algal growth and pigment accumulation on tris acetate phosphate agar supplemented with various sodium chloride concentrations (0-15 g/l). Results:Peak canthaxanthin content (294.55 µg/g dry weight) was observed at 10 g/l NaCl, while biomass yield was highest at 12 g/l. Combining salt stress with a 50% nitrogen reduction increased total carotenoid productivity (highest with 10 g/l NaCl: 3.10 mg/l) but did not enhance canthaxanthin levels; the salt-only treatment produced the highest canthaxanthin yield (0.80 mg/l). Pigment identification and quantitative profiling were performed using thin-layer chromatography and spectrophotometry, confirming the efficiency of the production process. Conclusions:These findings highlight Chlorosarcinopsis PY02 as a promising candidate for sustainable, large-scale production of ketocarotenoids. The study also demonstrates a cost-effective and scalable approach for inducing carotenoid biosynthesis in Chlorosarcinopsis PY02, with strong relevance for sustainable pigment production. The simple visual screening method provides a practical tool for preliminary strain and condition optimization in microalgal bioprocess development.
Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising field with the potential to revolutionize several industries, including the food industry. It offers innovative solutions to critical challenges in food, such as safety, nutrition, waste reduction, and sustainability. This study examines the possibilities offered by nanotechnology in the food sector, with a focus on risk assessment, safety evaluation, and regulatory approaches. While nanotechnology in food applications presents many advantages, it also raises concerns about potential health risks. Due to their distinct characteristics, nanoparticles may interact with living organisms in unpredictable ways, creating challenges for risk assessment and management. This review also explores the possible hazards of using nanomaterials in the food system, highlighting the need for comprehensive toxicity studies and effective regulatory frameworks. Addressing these issues requires a multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration among scientists, regulators, policymakers, and stakeholders to balance the benefits and risks of nanotechnology in the food system. As the food sector seeks novel approaches to meet rising global demand, it is crucial to thoroughly assess both the advantages and risks of nanotechnology to ensure its responsible and sustainable application while protecting human health and the environment.
Background:Soil contamination by oil products is a significant problem that affects the environment, agriculture, economy, and human health, and requires effective solutions. The study aimed to develop effective methods of bioremediation of oil-contaminated soils using microbial preparation D (a mixture of Rhodococcus sp. and Gordonia sp. - a consortium of autochthonous hydrocarbon-degrading micro-organisms), a rhamnolipid biocomplex (RBC), the oxidant calcium peroxide (CaO2), and plant remediants. Materials and methods:Bioremediation processes were carried out on oil-contaminated clay soil (initial contamination - 9.5%) over 1.5 years. First, the soil was treated with microbial preparation D and CaO2. After 14 days, field peas or sorghum were sown, with seeds treated using an RBC solution. Hydrogen peroxide content and lipid peroxidation index in plants, as well as soil dehydrogenase activity, were determined by spectrophotometry. Additionally, soil phytotoxicity was assessed using test plants, and the residual content of oil products was quantified. Results:The best effect was achieved with the combined use of microbial preparation D, RBC, and CaO2: the degree of oil contamination in the soil decreased to 1.3%; with microbial preparation D, plants, and RBC, contamination decreased to 1.4-1.6% (compared to the initial 9.5%). The maximum value of dehydrogenase activity was recorded when sorghum, microbial preparation D, and RBC were applied, 2.7 times higher than in the control. After bioremediation, the phytotoxicity of oil-contaminated soils (in test plants) decreased on average by 3.7 times compared to the control. Conclusion:The effectiveness of the integrated use of hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms, field peas, sorghum, RBC, and CaO2 in bioremediation of oil-contaminated soils was established.
Background:Conotoxins are small peptides known for their potent and selective activity on ion channels, offering potential applications in both medicine and cosmetology. This study aimed to design and validate recombinant conotoxin TIIIA and its mutant TIIIAlaMut, assess their biological activity on the voltage-gated Na+ (Nav) channel Nav1.4, and evaluate the antiwrinkle efficacy of a topical cream containing the recombinant peptide in a group of volunteers. Materials and methods:Fusion genes encoding TRX::TIIIA and TRX::TIIIAlaMut were cloned into the pDM vector and expressed in Escherichia coli S4B cells. The proteins were purified using Ni-NTA chromatography, cleaved with CNBr under optimized acidic conditions, and analyzed. Biological activity was assessed using two-electrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing the human Nav1.4 channel. Additionally, a conotoxin-containing cream was applied to 55 human volunteers in an application study assessing its antiaging effects. Results:Both recombinant genes were successfully expressed, purified, and activated. Electrophysiological measurements demonstrated their ability to inhibit Nav1.4 channel activity, including the version extracted directly from the cream. In the human study, 47% of participants reported a visible reduction in wrinkles. Additional benefits included evening of skin tone, reduced erythema, and balanced sebum production in oily skin types. Conclusion:This study describes the design, bacterial expression, and functional analysis of recombinant conotoxins TIIIA and TIIIAlaMut. Their bioactivity was confirmed on human Nav1.4 channels. The recombinant toxins, including the form extracted from the cream, showed effects comparable to a synthetic standard. Application tests demonstrated the conotoxin's potential in cosmeceuticals, particularly in reducing periocular wrinkles and improving skin texture and tone.
Background:Changes in biomolecules under the influence of chemical and physical factors on cells, tissues, and whole organisms are investigated. Materials and methods:In vitro-incubated bovine embryonic cells were inoculated with low titers (high dilutions of viral suspensions) of vaccine avipoxviral strains. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts were co-cultivated with mouse malignant myeloma cells (P3-X63-Ag8) transfected by recombinant DNA plasmid or preincubated in culture fluid from prior incubation of the same cells. Sub-populations of virus-inoculated, co-cultivated, and preincubated cell cultures were frozen in the presence of the cryoprotectant dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), subsequently thawed, and re-incubated. Newly formed cell monolayers were inoculated with extracellular and intracellular forms of each viral strain, both before and after exposure to DMSO and drastic temperature changes. Extracellular forms were derived from the cultural fluids of inoculated cell cultures, while intracellular forms were obtained from suspensions of mechanically scraped virus-inoculated cells. Results:Exchange of nucleotide (DNA and/or RNA) fragments between cellular and viral genomes, as well as between genomes of separate cells, was suggested. These changes were explained by activated fusion induced by the organic detergent (DMSO) combined with drastic temperature changes. Such processes could provide vectors for gene-engineering manipulations and the development of molecular (DNA-based, RNA-based, and/or protein-based) antiviral and antimalignant vaccines. Production of immune molecules by nonimmune cell types under appropriate conditions, such as the presence of immunomodulators, was also proposed. Conclusions:The results suggest the possibility of nucleotide (DNA and/or RNA) fragment exchange between separate cells, as well as between cells and virions. Nonimmune cells demonstrated the capacity to produce immune molecules under appropriate conditions.
Professor Philippe Jeandet was one of the world’s leading biologists and plant biochemists, best known for his research on the chemical structure of natural products and their bioactivity, particularly that of stilbenoids. His scientific interests primarily focused on resveratrol (trans-3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene), a stilbene with a wide range of biological activities. Additionally, his work highlighted the potential of combining pharmacological treatments with the use of natural products of plant origin, which have made significant contributions to the treatment of various diseases. He leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking research and a lasting influence in the field. He was also involved in research on sugar signaling during plant responses to abiotic and biotic stress factors, as well as the role of signaling molecules in fruit development. His scientific achievements demonstrate that he was, first and foremost, a dedicated scientist – but also a honourable colleague who understood and respected the work of others.
Background:Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide and is primarily known for its reproductive and hormonal symptoms. However, growing evidence suggests a strong link between PCOS and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) similarly involve systemic inflammation and immune dysregulation. Despite their distinct clinical manifestations, these disorders may share overlapping biological pathways. This study aimed to identify shared transcriptomic signatures between PCOS and autoimmune joint diseases such as RA and OA. Materials and methods:RNA sequencing datasets were downloaded from the publicly available Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. After processing and quality filtering, a total of 73 samples from the GSE277906 and GSE89408 datasets were selected. DEG analysis was conducted using the DE-Seq2 package in RStudio by adjusting for a significant p-value < 0.1 and |log2 fold change| > 0.5. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to determine functional enrichment of genes and common pathways associated with the diseases. Results:A total of 10,492 and 9,892 DEGs were identified in PCOS vs. RA and PCOS vs. OA, respectively. Key genes dysregulated among the diseases included TOMM34, DHCR24, CMAS, RBP1, and HSD3B2, and the enrichment analysis revealed overlapping pathways involving immune regulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and proteasome activity. Notably, 201 GO pathways were shared by PCOS and OA, 123 by RA and OA, and 267 by PCOS and RA. All three conditions shared a set of 57 GO pathways, including mitophagy and ER stress. Conclusion:The identified common pathways signify the overlap between PCOS, RA, and OA. These findings support the hypothesis of systemic immunometabolic involvement in PCOS.
Molecular profiling has become a cornerstone of cancer diagnosis and treatment, with BRAF alterations serving as significant markers across various tumor types. The gene encodes a serine/threonine kinase involved in the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, which regulates cell proliferation and survival. Mutations in BRAF, notably the V600 codon substitutions, are among the most common genetic drivers in melanoma and other cancers, including thyroid, colorectal, and non-small cell lung cancer. BRAF mutations are categorized into three functional classes (class I–III), each with distinct activation mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Current targeted therapies – primarily BRAF and MEK inhibitors, including the first FDA-approved anti-BRAF tumor-agnostic therapy – are most effective in cancers harboring the class I V600E mutation. However, the emergence of resistance to BRAF inhibitors has driven the development of next-generation inhibitors and combination treatments. Furthermore, innovative immunotherapy-based treatments have demonstrated synergistic potential in specific BRAF-mutated malignancies. Accurate molecular diagnostics are crucial in cancer treatment; therefore, numerous molecular diagnostic methods are employed, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), quantitative PCR, droplet digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). NGS, particularly comprehensive genomic profiling, provides the broadest and most detailed genetic data, although simpler laboratory techniques remain popular due to their accessibility and straightforward protocols. Further research into resistance mechanisms and combination therapies, as well as the integration of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in diagnostics, is needed to fully realize the potential of personalized treatment in BRAF-driven tumors.
Background:The increasing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a significant global health concern, with millions of people worldwide infected with these resistant strains each year. This study aims to conduct a bioinformatics analysis to investigate the biotin carboxylase (BC) B-subdomain from Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis (Lac3) (accession number NZ_JAGRPZ010000035.1) as a potential target for the identification and development of novel antibiotics. Lac3 was isolated from one of the Indonesian traditional probiotics called dadih, and its whole-genome sequence analysis was revealed in a previous study. Materials and methods:Whole-genome sequencing data of Lac3, generated using the Illumina MiSeq sequencer (Novogene Co., Ltd.), were used to analyze gene clusters with AntiSMASH. Molecular docking (PyRx Virtual Screening Tool; AutoDock Vina) and molecular dynamics simulations (CPPTRAJ software) were performed to elucidate the potential binding sites of the BC B-subdomain and compare them with the BC domain from a L. lactis reference strain (accession number KLK97304). The 3D structure of the BC B-subdomain was predicted using AlphaFold2. Visualization of the simulated protein-ligand complex conformations was conducted using PyMOL v2.3 software. Results:Bioinformatics analysis showed that the BC B-subdomain gene was located in the β-lactone gene cluster on contig 7.1 and consisted of 32.1% α-helix, 37.6% β-strand, and 24.8% random coil. Physicochemical analysis indicated that the BC B-subdomain protein exhibited a high degree of solubility. The BC B-subdomain shared similarities with the ATP-grasp domain of the BC domain from the reference strain, particularly in amino acid residues involved in ATP binding (His207, Gln231, Asn234, and Glu274). Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that the BC B-subdomain-ATP complex (-6.1 kcal/mol) was comparable to the BC domain-ATP complex (-8.8 kcal/mol). This was supported by molecular dynamics simulations, which indicated that the complex models remained stable throughout the simulations, based on several validation parameters, including RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA. Furthermore, ionic interactions with the phosphate group's amino acid residues - critical for ATP binding and function within ATP-grasp enzymes - were observed in both the BC B-subdomain (His207 and Lys236) and the BC domain (Lys236 and Arg290). Conclusions:These findings suggest that the BC B-subdomain could serve as a potential target for fragment-based drug discovery and may provide a reference for developing novel BC inhibitors with potent antibacterial activity by targeting ATP binding, possibly through its phosphate group binding sites. However, further analysis is needed to support the development of innovative antibacterial treatments in the future.
Background:Synthetic colors are widely used in the food and cosmetic industries to make products more appealing to consumers. However, the health hazards associated with synthetic colors have prompted their replacement with natural colors. Portulaca grandiflora is a promising candidate for natural color extraction, as it is rich in betalains. This study presents a reliable, reproducible three-step regeneration protocol for this plant and analyzes its betalain content. Materials and methods:In vitro shoot cultures were established on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different plant growth regulators. Anatomical studies were conducted to determine the stages of shoot primordium development. Betalains were extracted from in vivo plants using 60% methanol and subjected to spectrophotometric analysis. The effect of sodium ascorbate on betalain stability was also evaluated. Results:Juvenile leaf explants regenerated shoots on MS medium supplemented with 10 μM 6-benzyladenine and 5 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Shoots were multiplied with 20 μM BA (6.25 ± 0.85 shoots/explant), and elongation was achieved with 5 μM gibberellic acid (GA3) (8.2 ± 0.37 shoots/explant). Shoot primordia developed from well-organized meristemoid cells. The betalain content in the stem was 26.66 ± 0.19 mg/100 g, but this pigment degraded within 24 h (42.19% degradation). The addition of 50 mM sodium ascorbate prevented betalain degradation, even after 24 h. Conclusion:This study reports a regeneration protocol from juvenile leaf explants and demonstrates that betalain stability in the stem can be maintained with 50 mM sodium ascorbate.
The global COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of vaccines in controlling infectious diseases, with liposome-based formulations emerging as a pivotal advancement in vaccine technology. Liposomes are spherical vesicles composed of lipid bilayers that serve as drug delivery systems and versatile adjuvants, enhancing vaccine efficacy through improved antigen stability, targeted delivery, and immunogenicity. This review explores the potential of liposomes as adjuvants in both mRNA and protein subunit SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, detailing their composition and dual impact on innate and adaptive immune responses. Notably, liposome-based mRNA vaccines, such as those developed by Pfizer and Moderna, have demonstrated high efficacy by utilizing lipid nanoparticles to encapsulate mRNA and stimulate antigen-presenting cells, thereby inducing robust immune responses. Despite their advantages, challenges remain, including the optimization of lipid compositions and the mitigation of adverse immune effects. This review also examines the broad applications of liposomes in nanomedicine — from cancer therapy to antifungal treatments — and their potential for future vaccine development. By bridging the gap between engineering and immunology, the study of liposomes underscores their transformative potential in addressing current and emerging global health challenges.
Background:Biosurfactants derived from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produce eco-friendly biosurfactants with antimicrobial, antiadhesive, and antibiofilm properties. Materials and methods:LAB strains isolated from Bhatabaru were screened for biosurfactant production using multiple assays, including drop collapse, hemolytic activity, oil displacement, surface activity, and emulsifying activity. The selected strain was morphologically characterized by Gram staining and microscopy and identified through biochemical assays and 16S rRNA sequencing using Gene Tool software. Results:The strain Bht-2 was determined to be Gram-positive, coccus-shaped, and nonendospore-forming. Biochemical and molecular analyses confirmed its identity as Enterococcus faecalis, which exhibited significant biosurfactant production. Conclusions:Enterococcus faecalis Bht-2 exhibits strong potential as a biosurfactant-producing LAB strain. Its desirable physicochemical and biofunctional traits underscore its applicability in biotechnological, pharmaceutical, and industrial domains as a safe and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic surfactants.
Background:Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a global health concern characterized by pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, which disrupts multiple biochemical pathways. Consequently, treatments that target various pathways are essential. This study evaluates the hepato-renal protective effects of ferulic acid (FA) in T2D, focusing on carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation using in vivo and in silico approaches. Materials and methods:T2D was induced in male Wistar rats using fructose and streptozotocin. After 28 days of FA treatment, biochemical analyses were performed to measure glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin, liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), renal markers (creatinine, uric acid, BUN), and antioxidant status (SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA) in the liver and kidney. Pro-inflammatory markers (NF-κB-p65, IL-1β, IL-6) were evaluated in the liver and kidney. Molecular docking studies were also conducted to assess FA's interaction with key T2D-related proteins. Results:FA treatment improved pancreatic β-cell function, increased insulin levels, and reduced serum glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin. Liver function, renal markers, and hepatic glycogen content improved significantly, and diabetes-induced weight loss was reversed. FA inhibited pancreatic α-amylase, intestinal α-glucosidase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, and glucose-6-phosphatase, while enhancing hexokinase activity. Notably, FA improved antioxidant status and reduced inflammatory mediators in diabetic rats. Molecular docking revealed that FA exhibits stronger binding affinity and greater inhibitory potential against key diabetes-related proteins compared to metformin. Conclusion:FA offers hepato-renal protection in T2D by modulating carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent against T2D.
