Biotechnology Journal International
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Biochemical Analysis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by the Endophytic Fungus Plectosphaerella oligotrophica S8A26 Associated with Anaphalis contorta
No full textEndophytic fungi associated with medicinal plants produce compounds that have vast biological activities. Anaphalis contorta is a highly therapeutic plant that has been used in traditional medicine by various communities. In the present study, the endophytic fungus Plectosphaerella oligotrophica S8A26 was isolated from the stem part of A. contorta and assessed for its plant growth promotion abilities, and showed positive results for phosphate solubilization and ammonia production. The secondary metabolites were analyzed for the presence of seven biochemicals, which indicate the presence of flavonoids, phenols, saponins, and steroids. The total flavonoid content and total phenolic content were recorded to be 25.67 µg of QE/mg of EE and 5.06 µg of GAE/mg of EE, respectively. The isolate was allowed to synthesize silver nanoparticles and characterized using X-ray diffraction, Energy Dispersive X-ray, Particle size distribution, and Zeta potential. XRD analysis has shown the AgNPs are crystalline with an average size of 24.81 nm. EDX study reveals silver as the main component with 48.63%. Particle size distribution indicates that the majority of the particles occur in the size range of 65–70 nm. Zeta potential value of −31.8 mV shows that the AgNPs are stable. Studies like the biological activities of the endophyte as well as AgNPs, secondary metabolite profiling, and the isolation of bioactive compounds would constitute important future research
Exploring Gene Therapy Strategies for Cystic Fibrosis: A Comprehensive Review of CFTR Gene Mutations, Bioinformatics Analysis, and Emerging Therapeutic Approaches
No full textAim: This study aimed to identify the most promising gene therapy approach for treating patients with cystic fibrosis.
Background: Cystic fibrosis is a rare autosomal recessive disorder affecting malabsorption, malnutrition, and lung function. It results from genetic mutations in the CFTR gene, responsible for producing the CFTR protein, a channel for chloride ions. Existing research highlights lentiviral and adenoviral vectors as highly effective for gene therapy in cystic fibrosis patients.
Methods: The NCBI database, specifically GenBank, was utilized to extract the DNA sequence of the CFTR gene, including its accession number, amino acid count, and number of exons. FASTA format facilitated the retrieval of nucleotide sequences and the assessment of protein function. BLAST was employed to compare CFTR gene protein products between humans and Mus musculus (house mice). Gene therapy interventions were then applied to the animal model to ensure safety and efficacy.
Results: The CFTR gene\u27s accession number is NC_000007.14, with a protein product comprising 1480 amino acids and 27 exons. The gene is located on chromosome 7. Importantly, the house mouse was found to possess the same gene as humans.
Conclusion: Utilizing adenoviral and lentiviral vectors emerges as a safe and effective gene therapy approach, mitigating complications associated with cystic fibrosis
Mechanosensitive Channels: Utilising the Bacterial Cell’s Defence Mechanism against It
No full textMechanosensitive channels are integral membrane proteins in bacterial cell membranes as well as archaea, and eukaryotes. The role of these bacterial mechanosensitive channels is essential for protecting cells from structural damage during hypoosmotic shock. Mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) and mechanosensitive channels of large conductance (MscL) are the predominant channels in E. coli. Activation of mechanosensitive channels typically occurs when the bacterial membrane senses tension or distortion. Overall, the ecological niche of bacteria shapes the selective pressures acting on mechanosensitive channels, leading to their adaptation to specific environmental conditions. Bacterial mechanosensitive channels contribute to the ability of bacterial pathogens to adapt to and survive within the host environment, as well as to modulate interactions with host cells and tissues during infection. They could also act as entrance gates for specific antibiotic classes into bacterial cells. Accordingly, it was discovered that nitrofuran nifuroxazide and tuberactinomycin viomycin depended on both Ec-MscS and Ec-MscL for enhanced efficacy. Several compounds have been identified that directly target mechanosensitive channels. For example, ramizol has been shown to reduce the gating threshold of MscL and MscS channels, while styrylbenzene inhibits MscL channels in S. aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Clostridium difficile. Bacterial mechanosensitive channels are versatile drug targets due to their role in promoting bacterial virulence and host colonization, serving as entry points for antibiotics, and being structurally distinct from mammalian counterparts. These special structures which are meant to protect the cell can also be harnessed as drug targets, thereby increasing the susceptibility of the bacterial cell to target antibiotics. This feature has been harnessed to reduce the burden of antibiotics resistance and its attendant effect on global healthcare complications. The aim of this review is to examine the various physiological, drug resistance and pathogenicity roles of these mechanosensitive channels as well as their usefulness as potential drug targets
Microbial Contamination and Nutritional Evaluation of Poultry Feeds in Abidjan District Farms
No full textThis study aims to evaluate the biochemical and microbial quality of poultry feeds in farms of the Abidjan district. Thus, 164 samples of industrial feeds and farmer-formulated feeds were collected in Bingerville, Yopougon, Port-Bouet, Anyama and Songon areas for microbiological and biochemical analysis. The microbiological analysis consisted of isolation and identification of bacterial and fongical flora potentially pathogenic for the animal. The biochemical analysis was aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition of these feeds. Results showed that among these samples, 15 (10.33%), 91 (55.48%) and 48 (29.26%) were positive respectively for Salmonella sp., E. coli and Aspergillus sp. Moreover, biochemical analysis showed low feeds moisture rate levels ranging from 7.52 ± 0.16% to 12.14 ± 0.05%. Feeds formulated by farmers had low content in ash, protein and lipid with proportions ranging from 4.30 ± 0.15% to 11.61 ± 0.24%, 9.30 ± 0.24% to 15.81 ± 0.20% and 2.07 ± 0.02% to 3.68 ± 0.11% respectively when compared to commercial feeds.
In conclusion, the study shows a poor hygienic quality of the feeds used in modern poultry husbandry in the Abidjan district. However, the content of analyzed feeds content are mostly in conformity with the recommended standards
Optimization of Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. Seed Germination Using Pretreatment Analysis
No full textAgroforestry resources play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity, stabilizing soils and improving the livelihoods of rural populations. This study investigates the impact of different treatments on the germination of Acacia auriculiformis, an important tree species for soil restoration in Côte d\u27Ivoire. The work was carried out at the University Jean Lorougnon GUEDE in Daloa. The seeds used for this work were subjected to four treatments, including a control (T0); those soaked for 3 days in ordinary water (T1); a hot water treatment at 60°C (T3); a boiling water treatment at 100°C and a flame treatment (T4). A randomized block design consisting of four treatments in three blocks. The results showed that seed treatment in hot water at 100°C until cooling gave the best germination percentages and germination speed. The results also showed that soaking the seeds in water for three days produced seedlings with the shortest germination time. The study underlines the importance of pregermination for the selection of better-performing varieties and the implementation of effective reforestation programs. It also highlights the need for further research into the impacts of climate change on tree germination and growth. However, for a better policy of extension, production and improvement of this endangered forest species of socio-economic interest, mastery of the requirements of this species while maintaining optimal conditions for its germination in the nursery is more necessary
Characterization and Selection of Potential Starters of Bacillus Sp. Involved in the Fermentation of Néré Seeds (Parkia biglobosa) in Côte d\u27Ivoire
No full textAims: The present study highlights about Bacillus sp. starter strains to control fermentation of Parkia biglobosa (néré) seeds.
Place and Duration of Study: Between February and August 2023, this work was performed at Laboratory of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Valorization of Agroresources, of the Agropastoral Management Institute, which is part of Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University (Korhogo, Côte d\u27ivoire).
Methodology: Fermented néré seeds were collected from soumbara producers in the Korhogo region in northern Côte d\u27Ivoire. Néré seeds were subjected to a physicochemical analysis to determine the pH, titrable acidity, moisture, dry matter and ash content. These fermented seeds were used for the isolation and enumeration of Bacillus bacteria. Production of extracellular enzymes and the influence of stress conditions were carried out on these strains to select potential starters.
Results: The study of the physicochemical analysis of fermented néré seeds showed that these seeds have a pH of 6.59 ± 0.04, close to neutrality, with a very low titrable acidity of 0.06 ± 0.00%. The moisture content of the néré seeds is 38.76 ± 0.13% with a high dry matter content of 61.24 ± 0.22% coupled with a low ash content of 3.18 ± 0.05%. Thirty-three (33) Gram-positive bacilli were isolated from néré seeds with a microbial load of 7.1 log10 cfu/g. The production of extracellular enzymes and the influence of stress conditions led to the selection of five Bacillus strains (BS 08, BS 14, BS 19, BS 22 and BS 31) as potential starters.
Conclusion: The control of the fermentation of néré seeds involves selecting strains with the best potential. Thus, five Bacillus sp. Isolates (BS 08, BS 14, BS 19, BS 22 and BS 31) were selected as potential starters for obtaining a soumbara of exceptional nutritional and organoleptic quality
Evaluation of NGASL Biomarkers and Some Biochemical Parameters in Patients with Renal Disorders in Ramadi City, Iraq
No full textThis study was designed to determine the effect or the relationship between neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGASL) and some kidney function parameters in kidney disorder patients to detect the level of serum markers in kidney disorder patients (acute glomerular nephritis, renal calculi, and acute renal failure) in Ramadi City. 120 male and female samples participated; the present study was divided into three groups of 90 patients (30 acute glomerular nephritis, 30 renal calculi, and 30 acute renal failure) and 30 healthy control individuals. The serum NGASL was measured using an ELISA technique. Kidney function tests (serum creatinine and serum urea, HB, and WBC)) were also measured by the quantitative method. The result showed low significant (p > 0.001) differences in hemoglobin and WBC percent in the acute renal failure group compared with other groups, and when compared between the studied groups, the results showed high significant (p< 0.001) differences in urea and creatinine concentration in the acute renal failure group compared with the AGN and RC groups. On the other hand, the result showed high significant(p<0.001) differences in level of NGASL in Acute Renal Failure group compare with others groups. The correlation between parameters showed a higher negative correlation between Hb with urea, creatinine, and NGASL (r = -0.571, -0.508, and -0.463), respectively. In addition to the higher correlation between urea and creatinine with NGASL (r = 0.670, 0.406),. So can be considered NGASL a biomarker for kidney injury or kidney disorder. That may indicate the NGASL effect of renal disease and may be used as predictive parameters for kidney diseases
Technical Options for Body Weight Estimation: Prediction of Body Weights of Indigenous Sheep Populations from Their Linear Body Measurements
No full textThe field data collection was conducted before the war (before October 2020) in Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia. The objective of the study was to determine the relationships between the linear body traits (LBTs) and body weight of the indigenous sheep, and to develop regression equations for predicting live body weights of each population. Begait (173), Rutanna (151) and Arado (164) sheep of sample animals were randomly involved in the field data collection. Dentition was used to determine the age of the animals and were from one permanent pair of incisor up to four pairs of permanent incisors. The data were analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. The indigenous sheep populations were kept under low input extensive production system. The overall mean direct field weighed live body weights of the Begait, Rutanna and Arado sheep populations were 40.4±0.49 Kg, 48.3±0.94 Kg and 28.3±0.29 Kg, respectively. The correlations (P<0.01) between LBTs and direct field weighed live body weights of the indigenous sheep revealed that the LBTs could be used as indirect selection traits and could also be used to predict the live body weights of the indigenous sheep in areas where weighing scale is not available by using different regression equations. Chest depth (ChD = 0.817) and chest girth (ChG = 0.880) in Begait, ChD (0.874) and ChG (0.913) in Rutanna, and ChD (0.705) and ChG (0.788) in Arado sheep were among the highly significantly (P<0.01) correlated LBTs with the body weights of the indigenous sheep populations. Except in male Rutanna, chest girth or chest circumference could be solely used to predict the live body weights of the indigenous sheep breeds. This characterization work revealed that the Rutanna sheep (a transboundary breed) could be primarily used for mutton production due to their large live body weights. Genetic characterization of the indigenous sheep populations should be conducted for the identification of economically important candidate genes of the populations
Assessment of Effects of Amended Bioremediation of Toxic Metal-polluted Soil using Organic Composites and Bacillus sp on Plant Growth Parameters
No full textIt has become pertinent to develop improved bioremediation techniques, to avert the deleterious effects of heavy metal pollution on agricultural productivity, and safety of its produce. In this study, cow dung, poultry wastes and their composites used as organic amendments were collected and processed, while Bacillus sp used as plant growth promoting rhizosphere was isolated and identified. Then 24 kg of fertile soil was polluted by introducing 20 mL of 0.1M lead acetate solution, before bagging 5 kg of polluted soil into ten perforated nylons. Soil sample was then analyzed before and after treatment. After mixing with Bacillus sp suspension, two of the pot experiments were amended with each of 0.5 kg cow dung only, 0.5 kg poultry wastes only and 1:1 ratio of their composites. Control samples were set up without amendment, and they were bioremediated for 25 days. Following germination of sown corn seedlings, heights of their shoots and number of leaves were monitored on day 4, weeks 2, 4 and 7, before harvesting for analysis together with soil samples. Results obtained revealed that seedlings grown on treated samples as well as properties of treatment of soil were generally better than those of control samples. Highest percentage increase in organic matter content of soil was recorded in treatment with mixture of cow dung only and Bacillus sp, with 9.28% and 7.63% increase at 33.75 mg/kg and 52.55 mg/kg of lead (Pb) pollution. Seedlings grown on samples treated with poultry wastes only, recorded the highest protein content of 161.25±5.5 mg/g, 104.99±4.95 mg/g and 79.75±3.2 mg/g protein contents, at 32.75 mg/kg, 42.02 mg/kg and 52.44 mg/kg levels of Pb pollution, respectively. The amendments also reduced bioaccumulation of Pb in corn seedlings, which was in the order; stem<leaf<root. Therefore, these amendments can be exploited for improved bioremediation of heavy metals
Exploring the Metabolic Implications of Dextrin and Maltodextrin on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Insulin Resistance: A Systematic Analysis (Part 1)
No full textAim: This study evaluates the effects of dextrin and maltodextrin on insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).
Background: Dextrin and maltodextrin are dietary fibers with known benefits for modulating blood glucose levels and insulin responses. Their use in dietary management to improve glucose and lipid profiles has been explored, yet there remains a lack of comprehensive reviews that summarize their impacts specifically on insulin resistance and T2DM. This paper seeks to fill that gap by providing an overview of the existing research on these compounds.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted, examining the influence of dextrin and maltodextrin on insulin resistance and T2DM. Relevant studies were sourced from databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, with the literature search extending up to December 2023. Only human subjects were considered, allowing for a focused examination of the effects.
Results: Thirty studies were included in the review. Findings showed that resistant dextrin notably enhances insulin sensitivity and beneficially alters serum lipid profiles in individuals with T2DM. The data on maltodextrin, however, was more variable; while some studies suggested it might worsen glycemic control, others did not corroborate this effect. This indicates the complexity of its actions and the variability among subjects.
Conclusion: The review confirms that resistant dextrin has positive impacts on insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism, likely through the modulation of gut microbiota. On the other hand, the evidence on maltodextrin points to a need for cautious use in populations at risk for or managing T2DM. Future work, including Part 2 of this series, will employ direct HPLC analysis to further investigate the biochemical interactions and mechanisms by which these dietary fibers influence T2DM, aiming to provide a clearer understanding of their role in dietary management of this condition