Current Trends in Biotechnology and Pharmacy

Integrated Analysis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Through Competing Endogenous RNA Network and Its Implications in Immune Evasion Regulation

Ranjini — 2024-11-30

Lung cancer is a complex disease integrated with diverse histological and molecular types that have clinical relevance. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), comprised of adenocarcinoma (LUAD), squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), and large cell carcinoma (LCC), accounts for the majority of lung cancers. This study harnesses the recent surge in biomarker identification, exploring the promising potential of the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in deciphering the intricate interplay among lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA components, providing insights into the tumorigenesis of NSCLC. Datasets encompassing differentially expressed mRNA, miRNAs, and lncRNAs were curated from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Differentially Expressed miRNAs in human Cancers (dbDEMC), and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. miRNAs were selected with respect to their established roles in immune regulation, pathways, and the tumor microenvironment (TME), and an integrative analysis was performed, based on which a comprehensive ceRNA regulatory network was constructed using Cytoscape software with 26 lncRNAs, 13 miRNAs, and 143 target genes. Gene Ontology (GO)-based functional enrichment analysis focusing specifically on immune system processes uncovered genes in pathways associated with immune cell differentiation, cytokine signaling, the immune response to cancer, and so on, positioning them as potential key biomarkers within the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, a novel lncRNA, ALAL1, supported by a lone study, was known to bind with the SART3 gene in NSCLC. Simultaneously, another study also established a connection between the SART3 gene and miR-34a. Leveraging these individual interactions, this study revealed a previously unexplored link between ALAL1, SART3, and miR-34a. This plausible ceRNA interaction is suggested to potentially exert a regulatory influence on the progression of NSCLC cells. These computationally inferred interactions, though promising, necessitate rigorous clinical validation. However, the identified biomarkers lay the groundwork for subsequent research, offering valuable insights that can guide future investigations in the realm of NSCLC.

Utilizing OncomiR and TSmiR as Biomarkers for Screening Breast Cancer

Grace Lydia Phoebe M — 2024-11-30

Breast cancer stands out as a significant threat to women globally, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable diagnostic and prognostic markers.Numerous studies have shown that miRNAs assist as either an oncogene or tumor suppressor. As a result, they are recognized as non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting cancer outcomes.Through an in-depth literature review, we have identified numerous upregulated miRNAs, including miR-9, miR-10b, miR-21, miR-29a, miR-92a, miR-148a-3p, miR-155, miR-221, miR-222, and miR-373. Conversely, we have identified downregulated miRNAs, including miR-34a, miR-96, miR-99a, miR-125b, miR-145, miR-200c, miR-203, miR-214, miR-411, and miR-486.We used the miRWalk database to predict target genes associated with each miRNA and constructed a comprehensive network. Additionally, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted to delve deeper into the functional significance and molecular pathways associated with the identified miRNAs target genes. Additionally, we constructed a Protein-Protein interaction networkbased on the miRNA-target genes.Further analysis was directed towards the target genes of OncomiRs (EGFR, MYC, CTNNBI, TP53, CCDNDI, BCL2) and TSmiRs (TP53, CTNNBI, AKT1), exploring their involvement in signaling pathways.This study delves into the utilization of miRNA for the early screening and monitoring of breast cancer.

Association Between Occupational Pesticide Exposure and Parkinson’s Disease Risk: An Observational Study In The South Indian Population

L. Divya Christy — 2024-11-30

The pathways and molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of prolonged pesticide exposure on Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathophysiology remain elusive. Given the association of altered expression levels of transcription factors (TFs) such as NURR1 and FOXA1 with PD, any dysregulation in these TFs could disrupt neuronal maintenance mechanisms, potentially increasing susceptibility to PD. We hypothesize that environmental insults such as long pesticide exposure could interact with the genes encoding for the TFs NURR1 and FOXA1 thereby, perturbing the regulatory mechanisms and maintenance of the midbrain dopaminergic neurons. In our study, we used NURR1 and FOXA1 as our biomarkers for PD. The transcriptomes from the peripheral blood lymphocytes collected from the blood samples of rural agricultural workers who were subjected to long-term pesticide exposure amongst the Indian subpopulation were profiled to observe any aberration in the expression levels of NURR1 and FOXA1. We demonstrated a significant downregulation of Nurr1 & Foxa1 mRNA expression in the pesticide exposure group compared with the healthy controls. This data supports that pesticide exposures may be in the initial stage of dopamine neuron degeneration as it is difficult to measure the motor symptoms of PD using the UPDRS scale in the preliminary stages. However, the current study did not identify the risk factor between male and female groups. In conclusion, our findings provide compelling evidence implicating pesticides in PD risk. This is the first human population study indicating that pesticide exposure may elevate PD risk, utilizing transcription factors as markers. Our population-based retrospective cohort study indicates higher long-term PD risks associated with pesticide exposure, potentially constituting an independent PD risk factor.

Mutational Stability Profiling and Functional Analysis of Spike Protein In Indian Sars Cov-2 Delta Variants: An In Silico Analysis

Prisho Mariam Paul — 2024-11-30

Amidst the global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, researchers are actively studying its evolution and impact. This research delves into the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant, using advanced computational methods to analyze mutations and their effects. By examining mutations and their evolutionary connections in the spike protein using data from databases, the study aims to gain insights into the virus's behavior.To gauge the stability of the spike protein variants, we used various methods. We predicted protein sequence disorders using PONDR. We also used the I-Mutant v2.0 bioinformatics tool to assess how mutations affected stability. We then performed functional studies using Protparam and NetPhos to analyze the consequences of these mutations. These analyses identified several key mutations in the spike protein, especially the D614G substitution. This polar-to-nonpolar amino acid change was particularly noteworthy.Our research identified significant mutations in the spike protein of the Delta Indian variant of SARS-CoV-2, including: T19R, E156G, L452R, T478K, P681R, and D950N. Deletions occurred at positions Y145, F157, and R158. Analysis showed increased phosphorylation of the spike protein, hinting at potential regulation by these mutations. Using structural modeling by Spdbv tool, we found that mutations within the Receptor- Binding Domain (RBD) region reduced protein stability. This study enhances our understanding of the mutations and their impact on the function of the Delta Indian variant's spike protein. Our research explores how mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus affect how its proteins work and stay stable. By understanding these effects, we can lay the foundation for future studies that design treatments specifically for new SARS-CoV-2 variants. In summary, our work shows that SARS-CoV-2 is constantly evolving, making it crucial to keep track of changes and keep researching to help guide health policies.

Exploring Molecular Interactions and Pathways in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A Comparative Analysis of Patients With and Without Anxiety

Manisha Koyimadatha — 2024-11-30

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) presents as an intricate mental health issue often associated with Anxiety. In this study, we used data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to investigate how anxiety acts as a comorbidity to MDD at the molecular level. We used NCBI GEO Accession ID: GSE98793 for this study. This microarray dataset examines the gene expression profiles associated with MDD both with and without anxiety. As the outcome of the study, a total of 15 significantly upregulated Differential Expressed Genes (DEGs), 4 significantly down regulated Differential Expressed Genes (DEGs) were found in MDD with anxiety data’s and 5 significantly upregulated Differential Expressed Genes (DEGs), 18 significantly down regulated Differential Expressed Genes (DEGs) were found in MDD without anxiety data were obtained from the dataset. After protein-protein interaction networks were generated using STRING DB, the molecular associations for MDD were visualised using Cytohubba, a Cytoscape plugin. We performed a functional enrichment analysis using the DAVID Functional Annotation tool to identify the biological processes and pathways associated with the up-regulated and downregulated genes in the anxiety and nonanxiety groups. ARG1, CRISP3, DEFA4, LCN2, BPI, and LTF were discovered in the anxiety group, while HLA-DQB1, FAM3B, GATB, and HLA-DQA1 were discovered in the non-anxiety group. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) were used to analyse differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Interestingly, factors like Staphylococcus aureus infection, the intestinal immune network's role in producing IgA, the steps involved in processing and presenting antigens, and the development of Th1 and Th2 cells are all processes that play a role in the illness and its comorbidity.

Computational Evaluation of Curcumenol as a Potential Inhibitor against Calcineurin Protein

Nivya R. M Nivya — 2024-11-30

Calcineurin protein is a multifunctional serine-threonine protein phosphatase vital to several cellular functions, such as immune response control, signal transduction, and cardiac function. Its relevance in preserving cellular homeostasis is highlighted by its involvement in T-cell activation, calcium signalling pathways, etc. The dysregulation of the calcineurin protein has been reported to be linked with neurodegenerative diseases, and hence calcineurin inhibitors may be beneficial as a treatment option. Existing FDA-approved calcineurin inhibitors are used under stringent guidelines and require careful monitoring because of possible side effects and toxicity. Consequently, as a therapeutic option, the discovery and development of novel calcineurin inhibitors is imperative. For this reason, the current study aims to characterize the calcineurin inhibitory action of curcumenol, a naturally occurring chemical by employing diverse in-silico techniques. Curcumenol was checked for its ADME-T and molecular interactional stability and was predicted to have impressive inhibitory potential with a docking score of -9.1kcal/mol and a mean RMSD of the backbone atoms of the Calcineurin-curcumenol complex as 4.55Å when simulated in a molecular dynamics system for 100ns. Theinsilicofindings were further justified using in vitro Calcineurin Phosphatase activity assayto quantitively analyse the inhibitory efficacy of curcumenol, defined in terms of IC50 value,which was found to be 0.113 μM. The overall study suggested that curcumenol holds the characteristic molecular and interactional properties and hence can be developed as a prospectiveand safe calcineurin inhibitor which can be ultimately employed as a promising therapeutic candidate against neurodegenerative diseases.

Synthesis of phyto-hydroxyapatite using Ocimum sanctum and its characterization

Srividya S — 2024-11-30

Hydroxyapatite is a mineral naturally occurring in the form of calcium apatite which is important to make biocompatible bone grafts, dental implants and dental fillings. The objective of the study is to synthesize a herbal hydroxyapatite using Ocimum sanctum (Basil) leaf aqueous extract ofto impart the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties to hydroxyapatite to improve its applications. The formed phyto-hydroxyapatite (phyto-HAP) was subjected to various characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum was subjected to anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The results showed that the synthesized phyto-hydroxyapatite has the crystalline structure similar to natural hydroxyapatite with the bioactive compounds of Ocimum sanctum which could make HAP a more effective material to be used in dentistry as filling materials, as herbal bone grafts, as composite herbal dental grafts, as coating material for dental implants, in orthopaedics and in other biomedical applications.

Antibiofilm activity of ethanolic root extract of Vetiveria zizanioides against dental pathogens

N. Premjanu — 2024-11-30

Biofilm infections, shielded from antibiotics and immune defences, pose a major health threat. Plants offer potential solutions due to their diverse bioactive compounds. This study investigated the root extract of Vetiveria zizanioides for its composition and tested for its ability to inhibit biofilms, fight bacteria and fungi, reduce inflammation, and combat oxidative stress in pathogens. The anti-biofilm properties were assessed using test tube method and a crystal violet assay. Phytochemical composition was analysed via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS). Antimicrobial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Candida albicans using both agar well plate and micro broth dilution methods. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were determined by DPPH and protein denaturation assays, respectively. The ethanolic extract contained 17 identified compounds, primarily sesquiterpenes and fatty acids. Major compounds were identified as 17-hydroxy-3,20-dioxopregna-1,4,ol, z,z- 8,10-hexadecadien-1-ol, formic acid, campesterol, cedren-13-ol, It inhibited biofilm formation in various pathogens, with the strongest effect against Staphylococcus aureus (75%) and the weakest against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (25%). The extract also displayed antimicrobial activity against all tested bacteria and fungi, with the best activity against Staphylococcus aureus (23mm inhibition zone). Additionally, it exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings suggest Vetiveria zizanioides extract has significant potential for combating biofilmrelated infections. Future research should focus on isolating and purifying active compounds, assessing their safety and longterm effects, and exploring their potential as therapeutic agents.

A cost-effective superabsorbent polymer composite for prospective wound healing applications

Bharti — 2024-11-30

Wound healing is essential for maintaining the physiological functions of the skin. Any disruption of the skin may lead to wound formation, which can result in mortality if left unattended. The most regular or standard therapy is to cover the wound with a dressing, which reduces the risk of infection and secondary damage. Wound healing is a continuous process accompanied by many other associated biological processes. Available market products to aid in wound healing, have some disadvantages, such as the formation of blisters, pain, and delayed healing. The present work is focussed on the development of a new material based upon the theory of superabsorption using cheap and food grade products. These materials are called hydrogels, which can absorb a substantial amount of water and have several applications. One of the applications is for wound healing as the absorption of bloodallows the agglomeration of the platelets, and other proteins which accelerates the wound healing process Although lyophilized hydrogels are lightweight and capable of absorbing large volumes of water, they are extremely brittle and lack structural integrity when absorbed. In this study, we have used Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (NaCMC) and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) polymers with a crosslinker (Boric Acid) to form apolymer composite capable of considerable water absorption to accelerate the wound healing process while retaining the benefits of strong mechanical characteristics, biodegradability, good water absorption, retention, and biocompatibility at a low cost. FTIR and DSC studies have been performed to estimate the chemical composition of the polymer composite and good crosslinking was observed with increasing amounts of the crosslinker.

Computational Studies on Diospyros Ebenum and Oldenlandia Umbellata Phytochemicals as Novel Fatty Acid Synthase Inhibitors

Athista. M — 2024-11-30

Obesity is a global health concern associated with severe diseases, including atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, coronary artery disease, and cerebrovascular disorders. These conditions pose significant risks such as restricted blood flow, coronary heart disease, and mortality. Fatty acid synthase (FAS), a key enzyme in lipogenesis, plays a pivotal role in fat accumulation and is a primary target for therapeutic intervention. Orlistat, a widely used drug that targets and inhibits fatty acid synthase activity to treat obesity; however, prolonged use may result in unintended health issues. This study aimed to identify natural compounds from Diospyros ebenum (Ceylon ebony) and Oldenlandia umbellata (chay root) that inhibit fatty acid synthase. Through comprehensive in silico analyses, including ADMET studies, toxicity profiling, pharmacophore analysis, ligandreceptor interactions, and molecular simulations, we found phytochemicals from these plants to be non-toxic with favourable pharmacological properties. Molecular interaction studies demonstrated efficient binding to the fatty acid synthase site, suggesting potential for inhibiting enzyme activity and reducing fat accumulation. In conclusion, Oldenlandia umbellata exhibited greater efficacy compared to Diospyros ebenum, suggesting its ability as a promising source of anti-obesity agents. These findings offer valuable insights for further experimental investigation.

A Study on Toxicity Mechanisms of Xenobiotics Using Network Pharmacology Approach

Shreenidhi K S — 2024-11-30

In recent years, modern medicine has grown exponentially. Many drugs are being developed and reused for different diseases. Although these drugs help cure these diseases, there are some side effects on the human body. The most affected organ in the human body. Is the liver these side effects in the liver were studied using marine toxicity studies using several species of marine organisms. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity mechanisms of xenobiotics using a network pharmacological approach. Xenobiotics are chemicals that are foreign to an organism and exposure to them can cause adverse health effects. Network pharmacology is a systems-level approach that integrates information about interactions between drugs, proteins, and biological pathways. The study involved using publicly available data to construct a human xenobiotic-protein interaction network using sites such as PubChem, PharmMapper, the KEGG/PANTHER pathway, and the Cytoscape software. The network was analysed to identify key proteins and pathways involved in xenobiotic toxicity. The study also explores the potential for repurposing existing drugs to minimize xenobiotic toxicity. Study results reveal several key targets and pathways involved in xenobiotic toxicity, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. The study also identified several existing drugs that could potentially be repurposed to minimize xenobiotic toxicity. Taken together, this study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying xenobiotictoxicity and highlights the potential for using network pharmacological approaches toidentify novel therapies for the treatment of xenobiotic diseases.

Probiotic Characterization of Primate Origin Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LG138

Reena Kumari — 2024-11-30

This study was aimed to characterize previously isolated lactic acid bacteria Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LG138 from primate feces for its probiotic potential. The ability of the isolate to withstand different in vitro gastrointestinal stresses was assessed over a period of time i.e. at pH 2.0 and 3.0, bile salts (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 %) and lysozyme (50,100, 150 mg/ml). Further the L. plantarum LG138 was tested for hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation and co-aggregation abilities, coexistence, exopolysaccharide production and hemolytic activity. The isolate demonstrated significant growth in the presence of different types of artificialdigestive conditions (low pH, bile and lysozyme).Furthermore, oxbiledid not affect the viability of L. plantarum LG 138 cells compared to the control. The isolate L. plantarumLG138 exhibited 65.7 ± 0.32 % auto-aggregation after 24 h incubation. The hydrophobicity test found the culture moderately hydrophobic (35 to 69 %) forhexadecaneand highly hydrophobic (70 to 100 %) for toluene and xylene. Moreover, it was observed to co-aggregate (66.13 ± 0.18 %) with a pathogen, Shigellaflexneri, without antagonizing other probiotic bacteria. L. plantarumLG138 was found to be able to produce exopolysaccharide and found to be non-hemolytic. These findings highlight the potential of L. plantarum LG138 as a promising probiotic candidate, suitable for incorporation into pelleted orgranulated animal feed formulations.

Bioprofiling of Polyherbal Mixture Towards Plant-Derived Pharmaceuticals

E Jancy Mary — 2024-11-30

Herbs are the major sources that protect us from the attack of free radicals. The methanolic extract of polyherbal mixture comprising the leaves of Ocimumtenuiflorum, Mentha piperita, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Plectranthusamboinicus and Acalypha indica was taken for the study. The research was designed to evaluate phytonutrients, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of polyphenolic compounds extracted from the polyherbal mixture. The results of the investigation indicated a high phenol content of 10.452± 0.010 mg/g along with flavonoids 6.976± 0.014mg/g and tannins 9.08± 0.012mg/g which are also polyphenols as compared to saponins0.250± 0.006mg/g, glycosides 0.058± 0.009mg/g and alkaloids 0.051± 0.005 mg/g in the polyherbal extract. The polyherbal formulation showed maximum yield of polyphenolic compounds in maceration extract which was 476.63μg GAE/mL compared to that of soxhlet method of 403.95μg GAE/mL. The phenolic Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) profile of methanol:hexane exhibited 7 to 8 spots (3:1). The polyphenolic compounds exhibited higher antioxidant activity with EC50 values of 61.67±0.07 μg/mL and 33.95±0.10 μg/mL through ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and phosphomolybdenum analysis respectively and IC₅₀ values of 73.34±0.12 μg/mL and 26.76±0.10 μg/mL through superoxide scavenging radical analysis and 2, 2 azino bis 3 ethylbenzothiazoline 6 sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging analysis respectively. Disk diffusion method revealed that they exhibited antimicrobial activities against oral pathogens such as Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, Actnimyces viscosus and Staphylococcus aureus with inhibition zones of 14.20±1.15 mm, 15.00±1.00 mm, 21.07±0.57 mm and 22.00±0.51 mm respectively. Finally, the research concluded that the polyherbal extract had antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and that it could be a significant source of bioactive compounds with potential biological benefits.