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Elkaliny NE, Alzamel NM, Moussa SH, Elodamy NI, Madkor EA, Ibrahim EM, Elshobary ME, Ismail GA. Macroalgae Bioplastics: A Sustainable Shift to Mitigate the Ecological Impact of Petroleum-Based Plastics. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1246. [PMID: 38732716 PMCID: PMC11085313 DOI: 10.3390/polym16091246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The surge in global utilization of petroleum-based plastics, which notably heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, has substantially increased its harm to ecosystems. Considering the escalating environmental impact, a pivotal shift towards bioplastics usage is imperative. Exploring and implementing bioplastics as a viable alternative could mitigate the ecological burden posed by traditional plastics. Macroalgae is a potential feedstock for the production of bioplastics due to its abundance, fast growth, and high cellulose and sugar content. Researchers have recently explored various methods for extracting and converting macroalgae into bioplastic. Some of the key challenges in the production of macroalgae bioplastics are the high costs of large-scale production and the need to optimize the extraction and conversion processes to obtain high-quality bioplastics. However, the potential benefits of using macroalgae for bioplastic production include reducing plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions, using healthier materials in various life practices, and developing a promising area for future research and development. Also, bioplastic provides job opportunities in free enterprise and contributes to various applications such as packaging, medical devices, electronics, textiles, and cosmetics. The presented review aims to discuss the problem of petroleum-based plastic, bioplastic extraction from macroalgae, bioplastic properties, biodegradability, its various applications, and its production challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal E. Elkaliny
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Nurah M. Alzamel
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaaban H. Moussa
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nour I. Elodamy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Engy A. Madkor
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Esraa M. Ibrahim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Mostafa E. Elshobary
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Gehan A. Ismail
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
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Cardarelli M, El Chami A, Rouphael Y, Ciriello M, Bonini P, Erice G, Cirino V, Basile B, Corrado G, Choi S, Kim HJ, Colla G. Plant biostimulants as natural alternatives to synthetic auxins in strawberry production: physiological and metabolic insights. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 14:1337926. [PMID: 38264017 PMCID: PMC10803581 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1337926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The demand for high-quality strawberries continues to grow, emphasizing the need for innovative agricultural practices to enhance both yield and fruit quality. In this context, the utilization of natural products, such as biostimulants, has emerged as a promising avenue for improving strawberry production while aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural approaches. This study explores the influence of a bacterial filtrate (BF), a vegetal-derived protein hydrolysate (PH), and a standard synthetic auxin (SA) on strawberry, investigating their effects on yield, fruit quality, mineral composition and metabolomics of leaves and fruits. Agronomic trial revealed that SA and BF significantly enhanced early fruit yield due to their positive influence on flowering and fruit set, while PH treatment favored a gradual and prolonged fruit set, associated with an increased shoot biomass and sustained production. Fruit quality analysis showed that PH-treated fruits exhibited an increase of firmness and soluble solids content, whereas SA-treated fruits displayed lower firmness and soluble solids content. The ionomic analysis of leaves and fruits indicated that all treatments provided sufficient nutrients, with heavy metals within regulatory limits. Metabolomics indicated that PH stimulated primary metabolites, while SA and BF directly affected flavonoid and anthocyanin biosynthesis, and PH increased fruit quality through enhanced production of beneficial metabolites. This research offers valuable insights for optimizing strawberry production and fruit quality by harnessing the potential of natural biostimulants as viable alternative to synthetic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio El Chami
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Youssef Rouphael
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Michele Ciriello
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | | | - Gorka Erice
- Atens - Agrotecnologías Naturales, La Riera de Gaià, Spain
| | | | - Boris Basile
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Corrado
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Seunghyun Choi
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M University, Uvalde, TX, United States
| | - Hye-Ji Kim
- Agri-tech and Food Innovation Department, Urban Food Solutions Division, Singapore Food Agency, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Giuseppe Colla
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
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El-Sapagh S, Allam NG, El-Sayed MNED, El-Hefnawy AA, Korbecka-Glinka G, Shala AY. Effects of Silybum marianum L. Seed Extracts on Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Bacteria. Molecules 2023; 29:64. [PMID: 38202647 PMCID: PMC10779956 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Wound infections became a great challenge, especially after the emergence of bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Medicinal plants can be the source of alternative antibacterial agents effective against multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different Silybum marianum seed extracts in fighting MDR bacteria that infect wounds. First, thirty purified bacterial cultures obtained from superficial, infected wounds were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity tests. The selected MDR isolates were then used to test the antimicrobial effects of different S. marianum seed extracts. The most potent extract was evaluated for its impact on the ultrastructure of the cells of sensitive bacterial isolates using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The bioactive ingredients of this extract were analyzed by means of gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Then, in-silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties were predicted for the main components. The results indicated that four out of 30 bacterial isolates were considered MDR bacteria. Primary morphological features of colonies, secondary (automatic) identification using the Biomerieux Vitek 2 System, and 16S rRNA sequencing of the four isolates confirmed that they represent Staphylococcus aureus, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. Among different extracts of S. marianum seeds, ethanol extract showed the strongest inhibitory effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 9.375 and 1.172 mg/mL. However, at concentrations four times higher, this extract was unable to kill bacterial cells, indicating that it had a bacteriostatic effect on the tested MDR strains. TEM revealed denaturation and distorted cell ultrastructure in S. aureus and S. maltophilia after exposure to ethanol extract. In addition, GC-MS analysis of the ethanol extract identified nine compounds known to have important biological activities, and ADMET analysis showed good drug-likeness for two of these compounds. Consequently, S. marianum seeds could be a good source of alternative bacteriostatic agents effective against MDR bacterial strains that cause wound infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa El-Sapagh
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.)
| | - Nanis G. Allam
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.)
| | | | - Asmaa Ahmed El-Hefnawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.)
| | - Grażyna Korbecka-Glinka
- Department of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation—State Research Institute, Czartoryskich 8, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
| | - Awad Y. Shala
- Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza 12619, Egypt;
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El-Sapagh S, El-Shenody R, Pereira L, Elshobary M. Unveiling the Potential of Algal Extracts as Promising Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Agents against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: In Vitro and In Silico Studies including Molecular Docking. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3324. [PMID: 37765485 PMCID: PMC10537748 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a global challenge due to its virulence and biofilm-forming ability, leading to persistent infections. This study had a dual focus: first, it aimed to investigate the biofilm activity and antibiotic resistance profiles of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates obtained from a fish-rearing farm. Second, it explored the potential of algal extracts as effective antibacterial and antibiofilm agents. The study analyzed 23 isolates of P. aeruginosa from the farm, assessing antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of two algal extracts, Arthrospira platensis (cyanobacteria) acetone extract (AAE) and Polysiphonia scopulorum (Rhodophyta) methanol extract (PME), were tested individually and combined (COE). The effects on biofilm-related gene expression were examined. AAE, PME, and COE were evaluated for antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties. Biofilm-related gene expression was measured and the extracts were analyzed for physicochemical properties and toxicity. Most P. aeruginosa isolates (86.9%) were antibiotic-resistant and formed biofilms. AAE, PME, and COE displayed promising antibacterial and antibiofilm effects, with COE being particularly effective. COE reduced a key biofilm-related gene expression. The fatty acid content (56% in AAE and 34% in PME) correlated with the effects. Specific compounds, such as phytol, bromophenol, and dihydroxy benzaldehyde, contributed to the activities. The extracts showed favorable characteristics and interactions with FabZ protein amino acids. This study suggests the potential of algal extracts as antibacterial and antibiofilm agents against drug-resistant infections. Further exploration in clinical applications is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa El-Sapagh
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.); (R.E.-S.)
| | - Rania El-Shenody
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.); (R.E.-S.)
| | - Leonel Pereira
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Mostafa Elshobary
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (S.E.-S.); (R.E.-S.)
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Abo-Shady AM, Osman MEAH, Gaafar RM, Ismail GA, El-Nagar MMF. Cyanobacteria as a Valuable Natural Resource for Improved Agriculture, Environment, and Plant Protection. WATER, AIR, AND SOIL POLLUTION 2023; 234:313. [PMID: 37192997 PMCID: PMC10156578 DOI: 10.1007/s11270-023-06331-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Taking into consideration, the challenges faced by the environment and agro-ecosystem make increased for suggestions more reliable methods to help increase food security and deal with difficult environmental problems. Environmental factors play a critical role in the growth, development, and productivity of crop plants. Unfavorable changes in these factors, such as abiotic stresses, can result in plant growth deficiencies, yield reductions, long-lasting damage, and even death of the plants. In reflection of this, cyanobacteria are now considered important microorganisms that can improve the fertility of soils and the productivity of crop plants due to their different features like photosynthesis, great biomass yield, ability to fix the atmospheric N2, capability to grow on non-arable lands, and varied water sources. Furthermore, numerous cyanobacteria consist of biologically active substances like pigments, amino acids, polysaccharides, phytohormones, and vitamins that support plant growth enhancement. Many studies have exposed the probable role of these compounds in the alleviation of abiotic stress in crop plants and have concluded with evidence of physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that confirm that cyanobacteria can decrease the stress and induce plant growth. This review discussed the promising effects of cyanobacteria and their possible mode of action to control the growth and development of crop plants as an effective method to overcome different stresses. Graphical Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Atef M. Abo-Shady
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
| | | | - Reda M. Gaafar
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
| | - Gehan A. Ismail
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
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El-Sheekh M, Elshobary M, Abdullah E, Abdel-Basset R, Metwally M. Application of a novel biological-nanoparticle pretreatment to Oscillatoria acuminata biomass and coculture dark fermentation for improving hydrogen production. Microb Cell Fact 2023; 22:34. [PMID: 36814252 PMCID: PMC9948338 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Energy is the basis and assurance for a world's stable development; however, as traditional non-renewable energy sources deplete, the development and study of renewable clean energy have emerged. Using microalgae as a carbon source for anaerobic bacteria to generate biohydrogen is a clean energy generation system that both local and global peers see as promising. RESULTS Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterobacter cloacae, and their coculture were used to synthesize biohydrogen using Oscillatoria acuminata biomass via dark fermentation. The total carbohydrate content in O. acuminata was 237.39 mg/L. To enhance the content of fermentable reducing sugars, thermochemical, biological, and biological with magnesium zinc ferrite nanoparticles (Mg-Zn Fe2O4-NPs) pretreatments were applied. Crude hydrolytic enzymes extracted from Trichoderma harzianum of biological pretreatment were enhanced by Mg-Zn Fe2O4-NPs and significantly increased reducing sugars (230.48 mg/g) four times than thermochemical pretreatment (45.34 mg/g). K. pneumonia demonstrated a greater accumulated hydrogen level (1022 mLH2/L) than E. cloacae (813 mLH2/L), while their coculture showed superior results (1520 mLH2/L) and shortened the production time to 48 h instead of 72 h in single culture pretreatments. Biological pretreatment + Mg-Zn Fe2O4 NPs using coculture significantly stimulated hydrogen yield (3254 mLH2/L), hydrogen efficiency)216.9 mL H2/g reducing sugar( and hydrogen production rate (67.7 mL/L/h) to the maximum among all pretreatments. CONCLUSION These results confirm the effectiveness of biological treatments + Mg-Zn Fe2O4-NPs and coculture dark fermentation in upregulating biohydrogen production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa El-Sheekh
- grid.412258.80000 0000 9477 7793Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
| | - Mostafa Elshobary
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt.
| | - Eman Abdullah
- grid.412258.80000 0000 9477 7793Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
| | - Refat Abdel-Basset
- grid.252487.e0000 0000 8632 679XBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assuit University, Assuit, Egypt
| | - Metwally Metwally
- grid.412258.80000 0000 9477 7793Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527 Egypt
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