Displaying publications 1 - 20 of 10124 in total

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  1. Cadaverine and putrescine exposure influence carbon and nitrogen cycling genes in water and sediment of the Yellow River
    Su W, Yu Q, Yang J, Han Q, Wang S, Heděnec P, et al.
    J Environ Sci (China), 2024 Aug;142:236-247.
    PMID: 38527889 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.06.016
    The response patterns of microbial functional genes involved in biogeochemical cycles to cadaver decay is a central topic of recent environmental sciences. However, the response mechanisms and pathways of the functional genes associated with the carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling to cadaveric substances such as cadaverine and putrescine remain unclear. This study explored the variation of functional genes associated with C fixation, C degradation and N cycling and their influencing factors under cadaverine, putrescine and mixed treatments. Our results showed only putrescine significantly increased the alpha diversity of C fixation genes, while reducing the alpha diversity of N cycling genes in sediment. For the C cycling, the mixed treatment significantly decreased the total abundance of reductive acetyl-CoA pathway genes (i.e., acsB and acsE) and lig gene linked to lignin degradation in water, while only significantly increasing the hydroxypropionate-hydroxybutylate cycle (i.e., accA) gene abundance in sediment. For the N cycling, mixed treatment significantly decreased the abundance of the nitrification (i.e., amoB), denitrification (i.e., nirS3) genes in water and the assimilation pathway gene (i.e., gdhA) in sediment. Environmental factors (i.e., total carbon and total nitrogen) were all negatively associated with the genes of C and N cycling. Therefore, cadaverine and putrescine exposure may inhibit the pathway in C fixation and N cycling, while promoting C degradation. These findings can offer some new insight for the management of amine pollution caused by animal cadavers.
    Matched MeSH terms: Geologic Sediments/chemistry; Rivers/chemistry
  2. Trehalose-conjugated lentil-casein protein complexes prepared by structural interaction: Effects on water solubility and protein digestibility
    Alrosan M, Madi Almajwal A, Al-Qaisi A, Gammoh S, Alu'datt MH, Al Qudsi FR, et al.
    Food Chem, 2024 Jul 30;447:138882.
    PMID: 38452537 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138882
    The two limiting factors for lentil protein utilization are water solubility and digestibility. In this study, we utilized two non-thermal techniques: (1) protein complexation of lentil and casein proteins using the pH-shifting method and (2) protein conjugation with trehalose to produce trehalose-conjugated lentil-casein protein complexes (T-CPs) with enhanced water solubility and digestibility. The protein structure of the T-CPs was analyzed for secondary protein structure, conformation protein, and tertiary protein structure using Fourier-transform infrared, UV, and fluorescence spectroscopies, respectively. The surface hydrophobicity and surface charge of T-CPs solution at pH 7.0 changed significantly (P 
    Matched MeSH terms: Water/chemistry
  3. Effects of anthocyanidins on the conformational transition of Aβ(1-42) peptide: Insights from molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations
    Zakaria N, Wan Harun WMRS, Mohammad Latif MA, Azaman SNA, Abdul Rahman MB, Faujan NH
    J Mol Graph Model, 2024 Jun;129:108732.
    PMID: 38412813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2024.108732
    Recent evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies has shown that anthocyanins and anthocyanidins can reduce and inhibit the amyloid beta (Aβ) species, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, their inhibition mechanisms on Aβ species at molecular details remain elusive. Therefore, in the present study, molecular modelling methods were employed to investigate their inhibitory mechanisms on Aβ(1-42) peptide. The results highlighted that anthocyanidins effectively inhibited the conformational transitions of helices into beta-sheet (β-sheet) conformation within Aβ(1-42) peptide by two different mechanisms: 1) the obstruction of two terminals from coming into contact due to the binding of anthocyanidins with residues of N- and second hydrophobic core (SHC)-C-terminals, and 2) the prevention of the folding process due to the binding of anthocyanidin with the central polar (Asp23 and Lys28) and native helix (Asp23, Lys28, and Leu34) residues. These new findings on the inhibition of β-sheet formation by targeting both N- and SHC-C-terminals, and the long-established target, D23-K28 salt bridge residues, not with the conventional central hydrophobic core (CHC) as reported in the literature, might aid in designing more potent inhibitors for AD treatment.
    Matched MeSH terms: Peptide Fragments/chemistry
  4. Exploring the environmental pathways and challenges of fluoroquinolone antibiotics: A state-of-the-art review
    Masud MAA, Shin WS, Septian A, Samaraweera H, Khan IJ, Mohamed MM, et al.
    Sci Total Environ, 2024 May 20;926:171944.
    PMID: 38527542 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171944
    Fluoroquinolone (FQ) antibiotics have become a subject of growing concern due to their increasing presence in the environment, particularly in the soil and groundwater. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the attributes, prevalence, ecotoxicity, and remediation approaches associated with FQs in environmental matrices. The paper discusses the physicochemical properties that influence the fate and transport of FQs in soil and groundwater, exploring the factors contributing to their prevalence in these environments. Furthermore, the ecotoxicological implications of FQ contamination in soil and aquatic ecosystems are reviewed, shedding light on the potential risks to environmental and human health. The latter part of the review is dedicated to an extensive analysis of remediation approaches, encompassing both in-situ and ex-situ methods employed to mitigate FQ contamination. The critical evaluation of these remediation strategies provides insights into their efficacy, limitations, and environmental implications. In this investigation, a correlation between FQ antibiotics and climate change is established, underlining its significance in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study further identifies and delineates multiple research gaps, proposing them as key areas for future investigational directions. Overall, this review aims to consolidate current knowledge on FQs in soil and groundwater, offering a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners engaged in environmental management and public health.
    Matched MeSH terms: Soil/chemistry
  5. Bioactivity, phytochemistry studies and subacute in vivo toxicity of ethanolic leaf extract of white mulberry (Morus alba linn.) in female mice
    Fauzi A, Kifli N, Noor MHM, Hamzah H, Azlan A
    J Ethnopharmacol, 2024 May 10;325:117914.
    PMID: 38360381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117914
    ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional uses of Morus alba L. leaf extracts (MLE) have been reported for treating hyperglycaemia and diabetes. Phytochemical compounds in the leaves demonstrated the ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function, suggesting their potential value in reducing blood glucose and treating diabetes. However, the phytochemical constituents and safety of the herbal medicines need to be verified in each experimental field from different growing areas. Studies on the phytochemistry and toxicity of Morus alba leaves in Southeast Asia, especially in Brunei, have never been investigated.

    AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the bioactivity and phytochemistry of Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract from Brunei Darussalam and its subacute toxic effects in the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) female mice.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: The phenolic yield and antioxidant of the extract were analysed. Meanwhile, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were utilised to determine the phenolic compound of the MLE. In the subacute toxicity study, twenty-five female mice were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, which received oral gavage of 5% dimethyl sulfoxide solvent (DMSO), and the MLE treatment group, which received the extract at a dose of 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Physiology, haematology, biochemistry, and histology were evaluated during the study.

    RESULTS: Morus alba leaf depicted total phenolic 10.93 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight (DW), flavonoid 256.67 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g DW, and antioxidant bioactivity content of 602.03 IC50 μg/mL and 13.21 mg Fe2+/g DW. Twenty compounds in the Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract were identified, with chlorogenic acid (305.60 mg/100 g DW) as the primary compound. As for subacute toxicity in this study, neither mortality nor haematological changes were observed. On the other hand, administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg MLE resulted in mild hepatocellular injury, as indicated by a significant (p 

    Matched MeSH terms: Ethanol/chemistry; Plant Leaves/chemistry
  6. Elucidating the structural, catalytic, and antibacterial traits of Ficus carica and Azadirachta indica leaf extract-mediated synthesis of the Ag/CuO/rGO nanocomposite
    Fayyaz Z, Farrukh MA, Ul-Hamid A, Chong KK
    Microsc Res Tech, 2024 May;87(5):957-976.
    PMID: 38174385 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24487
    The present exploration demonstrates the efficient, sustainable, cost-effective, and environment-friendly green approach for the synthesis of silver (Ag)-doped copper oxide (CuO) embedded with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite using the green one-pot method and the green deposition method. Leaf extracts of Ficus carica and Azadirachta indica were used for both methods as reducing and capping agents. The effect of methodology and plant extract was analyzed through different characterization techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The lowest band gap of 3.0 eV was observed for the Ag/CuO/rGO prepared by the green one-pot method using F. carica. The reduction of graphene oxide (GO) and the formation of metal oxide was confirmed through functional group detection using FT-IR. Calculation of thermodynamic parameters showed that all reactions involved were nonspontaneous and endothermic which shows the stability of nanocomposites. XRD studies revealed the crystallinity, phase purity and small average crystallite size of 32.67 nm. SEM images disclosed that the morphology of the nanocomposites was spherical with agglomeration and rough texture. The particle size of the nanocomposites calculated through HRTEM was found in agreement with the XRD results. The numerous properties of the synthesized nanocomposites enhanced their potential against the degradation of methylene blue, rhodamine B, and ciprofloxacin. The highest percentage degradation of Ag/CuO/rGO was found to be 97%, synthesized using the green one-pot method with F. carica against ciprofloxacin, which might be due to the lowest band gap, delayed electron-hole pair recombination, and large surface area available. The nanocomposites were also tested against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Facile synthesis of Ag/CuO/rGO nanocomposite using a green one-pot method and the green deposition method. The lowest band gap of 3.0 eV was observed for nanocomposite prepared by a green one-pot method using Ficus carica. Least average crystallite size of 32.67 nm was found for nanocomposite prepared by a green one-pot method using F. carica. Highest antibacterial and catalytic activity (97%) was obtained against ciprofloxacin with nanocomposite prepared through green one-pot method using F. carica. A mechanism of green synthesis is proposed.
    Matched MeSH terms: Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry; Plant Extracts/chemistry
  7. Non-lamellar lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles as nanocarriers for enhanced drug encapsulation of atorvastatin calcium and proanthocyanidins
    Maslizan M, Haris MS, Ajat M, Md Jamil SNA, Azhar SC, Zahid NI, et al.
    Chem Phys Lipids, 2024 May;260:105377.
    PMID: 38325712 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2024.105377
    Atorvastatin calcium (ATV) and proanthocyanidins (PAC) have a strong antioxidant activity, that can benefit to reduce the atherosclerotic plaque progression. Unfortunately, the bioavailability of ATV is greatly reduced due to its limited drug solubility while the PAC drug is unstable upon exposure to the atmospheric oxygen. Herein, the lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LLCNPs) constructed by a binary mixture of soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and citric acid ester of monoglyceride (citrem) at different weight ratios were used to encapsulate the hydrophobic ATV and hydrophilic PAC. The LLCNPs were further characterized by small-angle X-ray scattering and dynamic light scattering. Depending on the lipid composition, the systems have a size range of 140-190 nm and were able to encapsulate both drugs in the range of 90-100%. Upon increasing the citrem content of drug-loaded LLCNPs, the hexosomes (H2) was completely transformed to an emulsified inverse micellar (L2). The optimum encapsulation efficiency (EE) of ATV and PAC were obtained in citrem/SPC weight ratio 4:1 (L2) and 1:1 (H2), respectively. There was a substantial change in the mean size and PDI of the nanoparticles upon 30 days of storage with the ATV-loaded LLCNPs exhibiting greater colloidal instability than PAC-loaded LLCNPs. The biphasic released pattern (burst released at the initial stage followed by the sustained released at the later stage) was perceived in ATV formulation, while the burst drug released pattern was observed in PAC formulations that could be attributed by its internal H2 structure. Interestingly, the cytokine studies showed that the PAC-LLCNPs promisingly up regulate the expressions of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) better than the drug-free and ATV-loaded LLCNPs samples. The structural tunability of citrem/SPC nanoparticles and their effect on physicochemical characteristic, biological activities and potential as an alternative drug delivery platform in the treatment of atherosclerosis are discussed.
    Matched MeSH terms: Atorvastatin Calcium/chemistry
  8. Recent advances and structure-activity relationship studies of DPP-4 inhibitors as anti-diabetic agents
    Singhal S, Manikrao Patil V, Verma S, Masand N
    Bioorg Chem, 2024 May;146:107277.
    PMID: 38493634 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107277
    Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the largest public health problems worldwide and in the last decades various therapeutic targets have been investigated. For the treatment of type-2 DM (T2DM), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) is one of the well reported target and has established safety in terms of cardiovascular complexicity. Preclinical and clinical studies using DPP-4 inhibitors have demonstrated its safety and effectiveness and have lesser risk of associated hypoglycaemic effect making it suitable for elderly patients. FDA has approved a number of structurally diverse DPP-4 inhibitors for clinical use. The present manuscript aims to focus on the well reported hybrid and non-hybrid analogues and their structural activity relationship (SAR) studies. It aims to provide structural insights for this class of compounds pertaining to favourable applicability of selective DPP-4 inhibitors in the treatment of T2DM.
    Matched MeSH terms: Hypoglycemic Agents/chemistry
  9. Discovery of indoleninyl-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines as potent chemotherapeutic agents against colorectal cancer cells
    Basir NH, Ramle AQ, Ng MP, Tan CH, Tiekink ERT, Sim KS, et al.
    Bioorg Chem, 2024 May;146:107256.
    PMID: 38460334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107256
    A new series of indolenines decorated with pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines were designed and synthesized in up to 96% yield from the acid-catalyzed cyclocondensation of 1,3-dialdehydes with 3-aminopyrazoles. X-ray crystallography on a representative derivative, 5n, revealed two close to planar conformations whereby the N-atom of the pyridyl residue was syn or anti to the pyrrole-N atom in the two independent molecules of the asymmetric unit. The computational and DNA binding data suggest that 5n is a strong DNA intercalator with the results in agreement with its potent cytotoxicity against two colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT 116 and HT-29). In contrast to doxorubicin, compounds 5k-o have higher druggability (compliance to more criteria stated in Lipinski's rule of five and Veber's rule), higher bioavailability, and better medicinal chemistry properties, indicative of their potential application as chemotherapeutical agents.
    Matched MeSH terms: Indoles/chemistry; Pyrazoles/chemistry; Pyridines/chemistry
  10. Effect of pyrolysis temperature on characteristics and chloramphenicol adsorption performance of NH2-MIL-53(Al)-derived amine-functionalized porous carbons
    Tran TV, Jalil AA, Nguyen DTC, Nguyen TTT, Nguyen LTT, Nguyen CV, et al.
    Chemosphere, 2024 May;355:141599.
    PMID: 38548079 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141599
    Several activities such as aquaculture, human and feedstock therapies can directly release antibiotics into water. Due to high stability, low hydrolysis and non-biodegradation, they can accumulate in the aqueous environment and transport to aquatic species. Here, we synthesized amine-functionalized porous carbons (ANC) by a direct-pyrolysis process of NH2-MIL-53(Al) as a sacrificial template at between 600 and 900 °C and utilized them to eliminate chloramphenicol antibiotic from water. The NH2-MIL-53(Al)-derived porous carbons obtained high surface areas (304.7-1600 m2 g-1) and chloramphenicol adsorption capacities (148.3-261.5 mg g-1). Several factors such as hydrogen bonding, Yoshida hydrogen bonding, and π-π interaction, hydrophobic interaction possibly controlled adsorption mechanisms. The ANC800 could be reused four cycles along with high stability in structure. As a result, NH2-MIL-53(Al)-derived porous carbons are recommended as recyclable and efficient adsorbents to the treatment of antibiotics in water.
    Matched MeSH terms: Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry; Carbon/chemistry; Water/chemistry
  11. Fulltext Synergistic interaction between scrap tyre and plastics for the production of sulphur-free, light oil from fast co-pyrolysis
    Dewi WN, Zhou Q, Mollah M, Yang S, Ilankoon IMSK, Chaffee A, et al.
    Waste Manag, 2024 Apr 30;179:99-109.
    PMID: 38471253 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.03.007
    Fast co-pyrolysis offers a sustainable solution for upcycling polymer waste, including scrap tyre and plastics. Previous studies primarily focused on slow heating rates, neglecting synergistic mechanisms and sulphur transformation in co-pyrolysis with tyre. This research explored fast co-pyrolysis of scrap tyre with polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polystyrene (PS) to understand synergistic effects and sulphur transformation mechanisms. A pronounced synergy was observed between scrap tyre and plastics, with the nature of the synergy being plastic-type dependent. Remarkably, blending 75 wt% PS or LDPE with tyre effectively eliminated sulphur-bearing compounds in the liquid product. This reduction in sulphur content can substantially mitigate the release of hazardous materials into the environment, emphasizing the environmental significance of co-pyrolysis. The synergy between PP or LDPE and tyre amplified the production of lighter hydrocarbons, while PS's interaction led to the creation of monocyclic aromatics. These findings offer insights into the intricate chemistry of scrap tyre and plastic interactions and highlight the potential of co-pyrolysis in waste management. By converting potential pollutants into valuable products, this method can significantly reduce the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
    Matched MeSH terms: Plastics/chemistry
  12. Colloidal surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic study of grouper epidermal mucus using acidified sodium sulphate as the aggregating agent
    Leong N, Yaacob MH, Md Zain AR, Tengku Abdul Aziz TH, Christianus A, Chong CM, et al.
    Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc, 2024 Apr 15;311:123974.
    PMID: 38377639 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.123974
    Fish epidermal mucus is an important reservoir of antipathogenic compounds which serves as the first line of the immune defence. Despite its significant role in the physiology and health of fish, detailed profiling of fish epidermal mucus has yet to be explored. Therefore, this study investigates a label-free colloidal surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) method for profiling grouper mucus. Gold nanoparticles were first synthesised using the standard citrate reduction and characterised using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The influence of acidified sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) at pH 3 as the aggregating agent on the enhancement of the SERS spectrum of different analyte samples including rhodamine 6G (R6G) dye, lysozyme solution and hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus) mucus was observed. Based on the results, an optimal Na2SO4 concentration of 1 M was recorded to achieve the highest enhancement of the SERS signal for R6G and grouper mucus, while the optimal concentration for lysozyme was 0.1 M. The results indicated a higher degree of aggregation induced by lysozyme than R6G and grouper mucus. A few overlapping peaks of the SERS spectra of lysozyme and grouper mucus made it possible to confirm the presence of lysozyme as potential biomarkers.
    Matched MeSH terms: Gold/chemistry
  13. Differential capacity of phragmites ecotypes in remediation of inorganic contaminants in coastal ecosystems: Implications for climate change
    Akhter N, Aqeel M, Shazia, Irshad MK, Shehnaz MM, Lee SS, et al.
    Environ Res, 2024 Apr 15;247:118127.
    PMID: 38220075 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118127
    Remediating inorganic pollutants is an important part of protecting coastal ecosystems, which are especially at risk from the effects of climate change. Different Phragmites karka (Retz) Trin. ex Steud ecotypes were gathered from a variety of environments, and their abilities to remove inorganic contaminants from coastal wetlands were assessed. The goal is to learn how these ecotypes process innovation might help reduce the negative impacts of climate change on coastal environments. The Phragmites karka ecotype E1, found in a coastal environment in Ichkera that was impacted by residential wastewater, has higher biomass production and photosynthetic pigment content than the Phragmites karka ecotypes E2 (Kalsh) and E3 (Gatwala). Osmoprotectant accumulation was similar across ecotypes, suggesting that all were able to successfully adapt to polluted marine environments. The levels of both total soluble sugars and proteins were highest in E2. The amount of glycine betaine (GB) rose across the board, with the highest levels being found in the E3 ecotype. The study also demonstrated that differing coastal habitats significantly influenced the antioxidant activity of all ecotypes, with E1 displaying the lowest superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, while E2 exhibited the lowest peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities. Significant morphological changes were evident in E3, such as an expansion of the phloem, vascular bundle, and metaxylem cell areas. When compared to the E3 ecotype, the E1 and E2 ecotypes showed striking improvements across the board in leaf anatomy. Mechanistic links between architectural and physio-biochemical alterations are crucial to the ecological survival of different ecotypes of Phragmites karka in coastal environments affected by climate change. Their robustness and capacity to reduce pollution can help coastal ecosystems endure in the face of persistent climate change.
    Matched MeSH terms: Poaceae/chemistry
  14. Fulltext Isolation and characterisation of lignin using natural deep eutectic solvents pretreated kenaf fibre biomass
    Meraj A, Jawaid M, Singh SP, Nasef MM, Ariffin H, Fouad H, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Apr 15;14(1):8672.
    PMID: 38622317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59200-6
    Extraction of lignin via green methods is a crucial step in promoting the bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomasses. In the present study, utilisation of natural deep eutectic solvent for the pretreatment of kenaf fibres biomass is performed. Furthermore, extracted lignin from natural deep eutectic solvent pretreated kenaf biomass was carried out and its comparative study with commercial lignin was studied. The extracted lignin was characterized and investigated through Infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. FTIR Spectra shows that all samples have almost same set of absorption bands with slight difference in frequencies. CHNS analysis of natural deep eutectic solvent pretreated kenaf fibre showed a slight increase in carbon % from 42.36 to 43.17% and an increase in nitrogen % from - 0.0939 to - 0.1377%. Morphological analysis of commercial lignin shows irregular/uneven surfaces whereas natural deep eutectic solvent extracted lignin shows smooth and wavy surface. EDX analysis indicated noticeable peaks for oxygen and carbon elements which are present in lignocellulosic biomass. Thermal properties showed that lignin is constant at higher temperatures due to more branching and production of extremely condensed aromatic structures. In UV-VIS spectroscopy, commercial lignin shows slightly broad peak between 300 and 400 nm due to presence of carbonyl bond whereas, natural deep eutectic solvent extracted lignin does not show up any peak in this range. XRD results showed that the crystallinity index percentage for kenaf and natural deep eutectic solvent treated kenaf was 70.33 and 69.5% respectively. Therefore, these innovative solvents will undoubtedly have significant impact on the development of clean, green, and sustainable products for biocatalysts, extraction, electrochemistry, adsorption applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Solvents/chemistry
  15. How the immune mousetrap works: Structural evidence for the immunomodulatory action of a peptide from influenza NS1 protein
    Zabrodskaya Y, Tsvetkov V, Shurygina AP, Vasyliev K, Shaldzhyan A, Gorshkov A, et al.
    Biophys Chem, 2024 Apr;307:107176.
    PMID: 38219420 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107176
    One of the critical stages of the T-cell immune response is the dimerization of the intramembrane domains of T-cell receptors (TCR). Structural similarities between the immunosuppressive domains of viral proteins and the transmembrane domains of TCR have led several authors to hypothesize the mechanism of immune response suppression by highly pathogenic viruses: viral proteins embed themselves in the membrane and act on the intramembrane domain of the TCRalpha subunit, hindering its functional oligomerization. It has also been suggested that this mechanism is used by influenza A virus in NS1-mediated immunosuppression. We have shown that the peptide corresponding to the primary structure of the potential immunosuppressive domain of NS1 protein (G51) can reduce concanavalin A-induced proliferation of PBMC cells, as well as in vitro, G51 can affect the oligomerization of the core peptide corresponding to the intramembrane domain of TCR, using AFM and small-angle neutron scattering. The results obtained using in cellulo and in vitro model systems suggest the presence of functional interaction between the NS1 fragment and the intramembrane domain of the TCR alpha subunit. We have proposed a possible scheme for such interaction obtained by computer modeling. This suggests the existence of another NS1-mediated mechanism of immunosuppression in influenza.
    Matched MeSH terms: Viral Nonstructural Proteins/chemistry
  16. The role of sheet-like TiO2 in polyamide reverse osmosis membrane for enhanced removal of endocrine disrupting chemicals
    Ahmad NA, Goh PS, Zakaria NAS, Naim R, Abdullah MS, Ismail AF, et al.
    Chemosphere, 2024 Apr;353:141108.
    PMID: 38423147 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141108
    Thin film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis (RO) membrane shows good promise for treating wastewater containing endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) pollutants. The incorporation of functional materials with exceptional structural and physico-chemical properties offers opportunities for the membranes preparation with enhanced permselectivity and better antifouling properties. The present study aims to improve the EDC removal efficiency of TFC RO membrane using two-dimensional titania nanosheets (TNS). RO membrane was prepared by incorporating TNS in the dense layer of polyamide (PA) layer to form thin film nanocomposite (TFN) membrane. The TNS loading was varied and the influences on membrane morphology, surface hydrophilicity, surface charge, as well as water permeability and rejection of EDC were investigated. The results revealed that the inclusion of TNS in the membrane resulted in the increase of water permeability and EDC rejection. When treating the mixture of bisphenol A (BPA) and caffeine at 100 ppm feed concentration, the TFN membrane incorporated with 0.05% TNS achieved water permeability of 1.45 L/m2·h·bar, which was 38.6% higher than that of unmodified TFC membrane, while maintaining satisfactory rejection of >97%. The enhancement of water permeability for TFN membrane can be attributed to their hydrophilic surface and unique nanochannel structure created by the nanoscale interlayer spacing via staking of TiO2 nanosheets. Furthermore, the 0.05TFN membrane exhibited excellent fouling resistance towards BPA and caffeine pollutants with almost 100% flux recovery for three cycles of operations.
    Matched MeSH terms: Nylons/chemistry; Water/chemistry
  17. A novel chitosan-alginate@Fe/Mn mixed oxide nanocomposite for highly efficient removal of Cr (VI) from wastewater: Experiment and adsorption mechanism
    Alqarni LS, Algethami JS, El Kaim Billah R, Alorabi AQ, Alnaam YA, Algethami FK, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Apr;263(Pt 2):129989.
    PMID: 38354916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129989
    In this study, the synthesis and experimental theoretical evaluation of a new chitosan/alginate/hydrozyapatite nanocomposite doped with Mn2 and Fe2O3 for Cr removal was reported. The physicochemical properties of the obtained materials were analyzed using the following methods: SEM-EDX, XRD, FTIR, XPS, pH drift measurements, and thermal analysis. The adsorption properties were estimated based on equilibrium and adsorption kinetics measurements. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms were applied to analyze the equilibrium data. The thermodynamic analysis of adsorption isotherms was performed. A number of equations and kinetic models were used to describe the adsorption rate data, including pseudo-first (PFOE) and pseudo-second (PSOE) order kinetic equations. The obtained test results show that the synthesized biomaterial, compared to pure chitosan, is characterized by greater resistance to high temperatures. Moreover, this biomaterial had excellent adsorption properties. For the adsorption of Cr (VI), the equilibrium state was reached after 120 min, and the sorption capacity was 455.9 mg/g. In addition, DFT calculations and NCI analyses were performed to get more light on the adsorption mechanism of Cr (VI) on the prepared biocomposite.
    Matched MeSH terms: Alginates/chemistry; Chromium/chemistry; Ferric Compounds/chemistry
  18. Production of eco-friendly adsorbent of kaolin clay and cellulose extracted from peanut shells for removal of methylene blue and congo red removal dyes
    Reghioua A, Atia D, Hamidi A, Jawad AH, Abdulhameed AS, Mbuvi HM
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Apr;263(Pt 1):130304.
    PMID: 38382796 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130304
    This present work targets the production of an eco-friendly adsorbent (hereinafter KA/CEL) from kaolin clay functionalized with cellulose extract obtained from peanut shells. The adsorbents were used for decolorization of two different types of organic dyes (cationic: methylene blue, MB; anionic: Congo red, CR) from an aqueous environment. Several analytical methods, including Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (surface properties), Fourier Transforms infrared (functionality), scanning electron microscope, Energy dispersive X-Ray (morphology), and pHpzc test (surface charge), were used to attain the physicochemical characteristics of KA/CEL. The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was applied to determine the crucial factors affecting adsorption performance. These included cellulose loading at 25 %, an adsorbent dose of 0.06 g, solution pH set at 10 for MB and 7 for CR, a temperature of 45 °C, and contact times of 12.5 min for MB and 20 min for CR dye. The adsorption data exhibited better agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich models. The Langmuir model estimated the monolayer capacity to be 291.5 mg/g for MB and 130.7 mg/g for CR at a temperature of 45 °C. This study's pivotal finding underscores the promising potential of KA/CEL as an effective adsorbent for treating wastewater contaminated with organic dyes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Coloring Agents/chemistry
  19. Synthesis and characterization of marine seagrass (Cymodocea serrulata) mediated titanium dioxide nanoparticles for antibacterial, antibiofilm and antioxidant properties
    Narayanan M, Srinivasan S, Gnanasekaran C, Ramachandran G, Chelliah CK, Rajivgandhi G, et al.
    Microb Pathog, 2024 Apr;189:106595.
    PMID: 38387848 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106595
    Cymodocea serrulata mediated titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) were successfully synthesized. The XRD pattern and FTIR spectra demonstrated the crystalline structure of TiO2 NPs and the presence of phenols, flavonoids and alkaloids in the extract. Further SEM revealed that TiO2 NPs has uniform structure and spherical in shape with their size ranged from 58 to 117 nm. Antibacterial activity of TiO2 NPs against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae), provided the zone of inhibition of 33.9 ± 1.7 and 36.3 ± 1.9 mm, respectively at 100 μg/mL concentration. MIC of TiO2 NPs against MRSA and V. cholerae showed 84% and 87% inhibition at 180 μg/mL and 160 μg/mL respectively. Subsequently, the sub-MIC of V. cholerae demonstrated minimal or no impact on bacterial growth at concentration of 42.5 μg/mL concentration. In addition, TiO2 NPs exhibited their ability to inhibit the biofilm forming V. cholerae which caused distinct morphological and intercellular damages analysed using CLSM and TEM. The antioxidant properties of TiO2 NPs were demonstrated through TAA and DPPH assays and exposed its scavenging activity with IC50 value of 36.42 and 68.85 μg/mL which denotes its valuable antioxidant properties with potential health benefits. Importantly, the brine shrimp based lethality experiment yielded a low cytotoxic effect with 13% mortality at 100 μg/mL. In conclusion, the multifaceted attributes of C. serrulata mediated TiO2 NPs encompassed the antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-biofilm inhibition effects with low cytotoxicity in nature were highlighted in this study and proved the bioderived TiO2 NPs could be used as a promising agent for biomedical applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry; Antioxidants/chemistry; Plant Extracts/chemistry
  20. Mechanistic insight of α-mangostin encapsulation in 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin for solubility enhancement
    Muchtaridi M, Triwahyuningtyas D, Muhammad Fakih T, Megantara S, Choi SB
    J Biomol Struct Dyn, 2024 Apr;42(6):3223-3232.
    PMID: 37286382 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2214237
    α-Mangostin is the most abundant compound contained in the mangostin (Garcinia mangostana L.) plant which have been developed and proven to have many promising pharmacological effects. However, the low water solubility of α-mangostin causes limitations in its development in clinical purpose. To increase the solubility of a compound, a method currently being developed is to make drug inclusion complexes using cyclodextrins. This research aimed to use in silico techniques namely molecular docking study and molecular dynamics simulation to explore the molecular mechanism and stability of the encapsulation of α-mangostin using cyclodextrins. Two types of cyclodextrins were used including β-cyclodextrin and 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin docked against α-mangostin. From the molecular docking results, it shows that the α-mangostin complex with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin provides the lowest binding energy value of -7.99 Kcal/mol compared to β-cyclodextrin value of -6.14 Kcal/mol. The α-mangostin complex with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin also showed good stability based on molecular dynamics simulation during 100 ns. From molecular motion, RDF, Rg, SASA, density, total energy analyzes, this complex shows increased solubility in water and provided good stability. This indicates that the encapsulation of α-mangostin with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin can increase the solubility of the α-mangostin.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
    Matched MeSH terms: Water/chemistry
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