Marine cyanobacterial biomass is an efficient feedstock for fungal bioprocesses

BACKGROUND

Marine cyanobacteria offer many sustainability advantages, such as the ability to fix atmospheric CO2, very fast growth and no dependence on freshwater for culture. Cyanobacterial biomass is a rich source of sugars and proteins, two essential nutrients for culturing any heterotroph. However, no previous study has evaluated their application as a feedstock for fungal bioprocesses.

RESULTS

In this work, we cultured the marine cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 in a 3-L externally illuminated bioreactor with working volume of 2 L with a biomass productivity of ~ 0.8 g L-1 day-1. Hydrolysis of the biomass with acids released proteins and hydrolyzed glycogen while hydrolysis of the biomass with base released only proteins but did not hydrolyze glycogen. Among the different acids tested, treatment with HNO3 led to the highest release of proteins and glucose. Cyanobacterial biomass hydrolysate (CBH) prepared in HNO3 was used as a medium to produce cellulase enzyme by the Penicillium funiculosum OAO3 strain while CBH prepared in HCl and treated with charcoal was used as a medium for citric acid by Aspergillus tubingensis. Approximately 50% higher titers of both products were obtained compared to traditional media.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the hydrolysate of marine cyanobacteria is an effective source of nutrients/proteins for fungal bioprocesses.

Expression and activity of key lipases during the larval development of walking catfish (Clarias magur)

The study was conducted to investigate the expression and activity of key lipolytic enzymes during the ontogenetic development of Clarias magur. After partial characterization, the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression analysis of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), pancreatic triacylglycerol lipase (PL), and bile salt-activated lipase (BAL) genes along with the specific lipase activity were performed in larvae from Day 1 after hatching till 34-day posthatch (dph). Heterogeneous patterns of mRNA expression were shown by the important lipolytic enzymes and were detected before first exogenous feeding during the yolk-sac stage. LPL started increasing from 13 dph and peaked at 16 dph followed by a declining trend till 34 dph. However, the PL observed to be peaking at 9, 22, and 30 dph. Similarly, BAL showed an increasing trend from 11 to 22 dph with a significantly high level of mRNA expression at 16 dph. Later, the specific lipase activity was evaluated which appears at Day 1 after hatching with a progressive increase from 7 to 16 dph and a further declining trend afterwards with a peak at 22 dph. The results indicated the development of exocrine pancreas at 16 dph. Furthermore, the transcript levels and the activity of lipases were regulated with the age. Hence, the present study can be helpful in devising different strategies containing optimum lipid levels at a suitable stage of development for improving the survival during larval rearing. Furthermore, the study could be a baseline for elucidating the optimized dietary lipid levels of this catfish during its larval rearing.

Effects of dietary synbiotic on innate immunity, antioxidant activity and disease resistance of Cirrhinus mrigala juveniles

The dietary supplementation of synbiotic in Cirrhinus mrigala juvenile (with initial body weight ranging from 2.87 ± 0.01 g to 3.26 ± 0.05 g) was evaluated in terms of changes in innate immunity, antioxidant activity and disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophilla infection. One hundred eighty acclimatized juveniles of mrigal were randomly distributed in the three replicates of each of four experimental groups i.e. control (without Probiotic and Prebiotic), T₁ (High Probiotic + Low Prebiotic), T₂ (Low Probiotic + High Prebiotic) and T₃ (High Probiotic + High Prebiotic), using completely randomized design (CRD). At the end of the feeding trial for 60 days, fish were challenged by Aeromonas hydrophila and survival rate was recorded for the next 15 days. Bacillus subtilis used as a probiotic source and MOS used as a prebiotic source in the experiment. Results showed that innate immunity was comparatively improved in T₃ group. Lysozyme activity and respiratory burst activity (NBT) were significantly (P < 0.05) affected in T₃ group. Highest activities of antioxidant enzymes (P < 0.05) were reported in T₃ group. Cumulative mortality % was found to be lower in the fish fed dietary synbiotic on T₃ group after challenging with Aeromonas hydrophilla infection. The results of this study showed that under the experimental conditions, dietary supplementation of synbiotic had a synergestic effect on enhancing innate immunity and disease resistance of Cirrhinus mrigala (P < 0.05).

Haemato-biochemical, non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity and histopathological changes in Labeo rohita fingerlings fed rubber protein isolate

A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the haemato-biochemical, innate immune response, antioxidant capacity and histopathological changes in Labeo rohita fingerlings fed rubber protein isolates (RPI). One hundred and eighty fingerlings (average weight 4.45 ± 0.01 g) were distributed into five experimental groups in triplicate and fed with isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets. Soybean protein isolate (SPI) served as the reference diet (Control), and the treatment diets were formulated as RPI₂₅, RPI₅₀, RPI₇₅ and RPI₁₀₀ replacing 25, 50, 75 and 100% of SPI protein, respectively. The growth performance indices like final body weight (9.54-10.27 g), net weight gain (5.09-5.84 g), metabolic growth rate (4.54-5.02) and feed efficiency ratio (0.60-0.65) among the various groups were not significantly different (P > 0.05). All the haematological parameters, except red blood cells, showed no significant differences compared with the control group (P > 0.05). The immuno-biochemical parameters like albumin, globulin, total immunoglobulin, respiratory burst and lysozyme activities among the various groups did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). The stress enzyme such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). Histopathological examination of the liver revealed no marked changes. In summary, the results showed that RPI was well utilised by the fish and its inclusion did not generate any oxidative-induced stress, thus, RPI may be suggested as a potential replacement for SPI in fish diets without any detrimental effects. Hence, protein isolation offers a unique opportunity for the utilisation of rubber seed meal.

Dietary protein enhances non-specific immunity, anti-oxidative capability and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila in Labeo rohita fingerlings pre-exposed to short feed deprivation stress

Present experiment was conducted to study the effect of dietary protein levels on growth, immunity and anti-oxidative status of Labeo rohita fingerlings during feed deprivation followed by refeeding. Fish (5.44 ± 0.10 g) were deprived of feed for 3 weeks and then re-fed to satiation for 5 weeks with one of the diets containing 25 (25P), 30 (30P), 35 (35P) or 40 (40P) percent crude protein (CP) level. In addition to these groups, a control group (C) was also maintained by feeding to satiation level twice daily with a diet containing 30% CP throughout the experimental period. At the end of 8-weeks' trial, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and survival was recorded for the next 7 days. Complete recovery of growth in terms of weight gain percentage was achieved in the fish fed 35 and 40% protein during refeeding. The body indices (condition factor and hepatosomatic index), haematological parameters and serum protein contents at the end of the experimental trial were not significantly different (P > 0.05) among different groups suggesting that the overall health of the fish was not compromised. However, respiratory burst activity and serum lysozyme activity were indicative of a better immune function in the higher protein fed groups (35P and 40P) than the lower protein groups (25P and 30P). Following challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila, survival rate, blood monocyte%, respiratory burst activity, serum lysozyme activity, serum protein and globulin were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the 35P and 40P groups compared to the other groups. Further, fish fed lower dietary protein were not able to restore the activities of anti-oxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase and catalase) in the liver. Conclusively, an improved disease resistance capability and immune status was observed in the fish fed a higher dietary protein (35-40%), even out-performing the daily-fed fish.

Nanotechnology-based Drug Delivery for Cancer

Nanobiotechnologies have been applied to improve drug delivery and to overcome some of the problems of drug delivery in cancer. These can be classified into many categories that include use of various nanoparticles, nanoencapsulation, targeted delivery to tumors of various organs, and combination with other methods of treatment of cancer such as radiotherapy. Nanoparticles are also used for gene therapy for cancer. Some of the technologies enable combination of diagnostics with therapeutics which will be important for the personalized management of cancer. Some of the limitations of these technologies and prospects for future development are discussed.

Targeted Drug Delivery for Cancer

Cancer drug delivery is no longer simply wrapping the drug in new formulations for different routes of delivery. Knowledge and experience from other technologies such as nanotechnology, advanced polymer chemistry, and electronic engineering, are being brought together in developing novel methods of drug delivery. Advances in our knowledge of molecular biology of cancer and pathways involved in malignant transformation of cells are revolutionizing the approach to cancer treatment with a focus is on targeted cancer therapy. The newer approaches to cancer treatment not only supplement the conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy but also aim to prevent damage to the normal tissues and overcome drug resistance. Innovative methods of cancer treatment require new concepts of drug delivery in cancer.

Prospective glioma grading using single-dose dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI

AIM

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of single-dose dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in prospective evaluation of glioma grading and to correlate the relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) values with mitotic and ki-67 indexes obtained at histopathology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 53 histologically proven patients with glioma were included in this study. DCE-MRI perfusion with a single dose of contrast medium was included in brain tumour protocol and prospective grading of glioma into low and high grade was done based on a previously reported rCBV cut-off value of 3. Tumours with rCBV ≥ 3 were considered to be high grade and rCBV < 3 were considered to be low grade. The sensitivity and specificity of the cut-off value were estimated. Ki-67 and mitotic indexes were also obtained on histopathological analysis along with histological grading.

RESULTS

Based on pre-defined rCBV cut-off values, prospective grading of low- and high-grade glioma was achieved with a sensitivity and specificity of 97.22% and 100%, respectively. Significant correlation was found between the mitotic/ki-67 indexes and rCBV values when data for high- and low-grade tumours was combined.

CONCLUSION

DCE-MRI performed with a single dose of contrast medium is as effective as a protocol with a double-dose of contrast medium for glioma grading using 3 T MRI and could be added to the routine evaluation protocol of brain tumours.

Synthetic biology and personalized medicine

Synthetic biology, application of synthetic chemistry to biology, is a broad term that covers the engineering of biological systems with structures and functions not found in nature to process information, manipulate chemicals, produce energy, maintain cell environment and enhance human health. Synthetic biology devices contribute not only to improve our understanding of disease mechanisms, but also provide novel diagnostic tools. Methods based on synthetic biology enable the design of novel strategies for the treatment of cancer, immune diseases metabolic disorders and infectious diseases as well as the production of cheap drugs. The potential of synthetic genome, using an expanded genetic code that is designed for specific drug synthesis as well as delivery and activation of the drug in vivo by a pathological signal, was already pointed out during a lecture delivered at Kuwait University in 2005. Of two approaches to synthetic biology, top-down and bottom-up, the latter is more relevant to the development of personalized medicines as it provides more flexibility in constructing a partially synthetic cell from basic building blocks for a desired task.

Water soaking and exogenous enzyme treatment of plant-based diets: effect on growth performance, whole-body composition, and digestive enzyme activities of rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton), fingerlings

A 2 × 2 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted to delineate the main effect of water soaking of plant ingredients, phytase, cellulase, and their interactions on the growth and digestive enzyme activities of Labeo rohita fingerlings. Two basal diets were prepared using water-soaked (S) or unsoaked (US) plant-based ingredients. Feed of US ingredients was supplemented with phytase (U kg(-1)) and cellulase (%) at the level of 0, 0 (C(us)); 500, 0 (T(1)); 0, 0.2 (T(2)); 500, 0.2 (T(3)), and feed of S ingredients at 0, 0 (C(s)); 500, 0 (T(4)); 0, 0.2 (T(5)), and 500, 0.2 (T(6)), respectively. Three hundred and sixty fingerlings were randomly distributed into eight treatments, each with three replicates. Soaking of the ingredients for 24 h significantly reduced the tannin content. However, feeding of S diets did not improve the fish growth. Highest performance was recorded in the T(3) group. A significant interaction between dietary phytase and cellulase was observed for apparent net protein utilization. Tissue crude protein, ether extract, and ash content of the fingerlings were observed highest in the T(3) group. Activities of amylase, protease, and lipase were recorded highest in the T(3) group. Results suggested that soaking of plant-based ingredients reduces tannin content; however, growth and digestive enzyme activities of group fed soaked diet were not improved, possibly due to leaching of soluble nutrients. Probably, a shorter duration soaking may be effective in reducing tannin content and avoiding nutrients leaching.

Solid state bioconversion of wheat straw into digestible and nutritive ruminant feed by Ganoderma sp. rckk02

Solid state fermentation (SSF) of wheat straw with Ganoderma sp. rckk02 was carried out for 15 days for improving its digestibility and nutrients. Fungal growth caused a significant (P<0.05) decrease in acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), hemicellulose, lignin and cellulose content till 15th day. In vitro gas production (IVGP) test revealed that 10th day fermented feed possessed higher metabolizable energy (ME: 4.87 MJ/kg), in vitro organic matter digestibility (OMD: 334 g/kg) and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs: 1.82 mmol/g Dry Matter). The fermented feed was also evaluated in vivo in goats fed with either untreated wheat straw (T1) or fungal treated straw (T2). Dry matter intake (DMI), digestible crude protein (DCP), total digestible nutrients (TDN) and nitrogen (N) intake were found significantly (P<0.05) increased in T2 group. The study shows that fermentation of wheat straw with Ganoderma sp. rckk02 holds potential in improving its nutritive value.

Role of biological therapies in the development of personalized medicine

Development of personalized medicine involves integration of several biotechnologies. This editorial stresses the important role that biological therapies such as cell and gene therapies, recombinant proteins and vaccines play in personalization of treatment. Cell-based therapies, particularly vaccines made from the patient's own tumor cells, were the first therapeutic vaccines for cancer. Adoptive cell therapy is an immunotherapy based on ex vivo expansion of autologous T lymphocytes and subsequent administration to cancer patients. Stem cells as well as genetic modification of cells has been used for in vivo production of therapeutic substances best suited for individual patients. Besides cell therapy, RNAi has been used for personalized therapy of cancer. Monoclonal antibodies, designed to bind specifically to receptors in certain tumors, are also personalized medicines.

Nanobiotechnology and personalized medicine

This chapter will start with a definition and scope of personalized medicine and describe how various nanobiotechnologies will contribute to its development. Nanodiagnostics and its combination with therapeutics as well as nanoparticle-based drug delivery will play an important role. The most important applications of nanobiotechnology will be personalized management of cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

Gene therapy for pain

BACKGROUND

Management of chronic pain remains a challenge in spite of the numerous drugs either approved or still in development. Apart from inadequacy of relief, there are concerns about adverse effects and addiction in the case of drugs such as opioids. Gene therapy is being investigated for improving management of pain.

OBJECTIVE

To addresses the rationale of gene therapy for treatment of pain and its advantages over drugs. The prospects of translation of these techniques from experimental animals to clinical use are discussed.

METHODS

The review is based on the available literature and is confined to experimental work, as there are no approved therapies in this category.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION

A number of promising gene therapies as well as antisense- and RNA interference-based approaches have been identified. These provide targeted approaches to delivery of antinociceptive molecules or interruption of pain pathways without subjecting the patient to systemic toxicity of drugs. Some of these approaches are aimed at correcting the underlying pathology of the diseases (e.g., treating degenerative joint diseases causing pain). Management of neuropathic pain is a challenge and a number of studies are addressing it. Overall the future of gene therapy for pain is promising.

Cell therapy for pain

BACKGROUND

Management of chronic pain remains a challenge in spite of numerous drugs that are either approved or still in development. Apart from inadequate relief, there are concerns about adverse effects and addiction. Cell therapy is being explored for relief of pain.

OBJECTIVE

To address the rationale for cell therapy for treatment of pain and its advantages over conventional pharmaceuticals. The prospects of translation of these techniques from experimental animals to clinical use are discussed.

METHODS

This review is based on the literature on cell therapy in relation to pain and is confined to experimental work as there are no approved therapies in this category.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS

A number of promising cell therapy technologies have been identified. These provide targeted approaches to delivery of antinociceptive molecules, avoiding subjecting the patient to systemic toxicity of drugs. There has been considerable progress in treating degenerative joint diseases causing pain. Management of neuropathic pain is a challenge and a number of ongoing studies are addressing it. Overall the future of cell therapy for pain is promising.

Characterization of tumefactive demyelinating lesions using MR imaging and in-vivo proton MR spectroscopy

Background and Objectives

Diagnosis of tumefactive demyelinating lesions (TDLs) is challenging to both clinicians and radiologists. Our objective in this study was to analyze and characterize these lesions clinically, biochemically, electrophysiologically, and on imaging.

Methods

A retrospective analysis with prospective follow-up of 18 cases of TDLs was performed. Imaging included T2-, T1-weighted, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), post-contrast T1-weighted, diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (PMRS).

Results

All the lesions appeared hyperintense on T2 and FLAIR images. Increased Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) (0.93–2.21 × 10−3 mm2/s) in centre of the lesion was seen in 14/18 cases; however, peripheral restriction (ADC values 0.55–0.64 × 10−3 mm2/s) was noted in 11/18 cases. In all, 13/18 cases showed contrast enhancement with open ring ( n = 5), complete ring ( n = 1), minimal ( n = 4), and infiltrative ( n = 3) pattern of enhancement. Nine of these 13 cases also showed venular enhancement. On PMRS, nine showed glutamate/glutamine (Glx) at 2.4 ppm.

Conclusion

Clinical features along with several MRI characteristics such as open ring enhancement, peripheral restriction on DWI, venular enhancement, and presence of Glx on spectroscopy may be rewarding in differentiating TDLs from neoplastic lesions.

Recent advances in nanooncology

Nanobiotechnology is playing an important role in advances in oncology and currently nanooncology is the most important chapter of nanomedicine. Nanobiotechnologies have refined molecular diagnostics and enabled early detection of tumors and discovery of biomarkers of cancer. Various nanoparticles are the basis of diagnostic assays for cancer as well as contrast materials for MRI. Nanobiotechnology is facilitating the discovery and development of drugs for cancer. Several nanobiotechnologies, mostly based on nanoparticles, have been described to facilitate drug delivery in cancer, which is important for optimizing the effect of drugs and reducing toxic side effects. Nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery in cancer enable combination of diagnostics and therapeutics and act as adjuncts to hyperthermia and photodynamic therapy. Several applications of nanobiotechnology in cancer surgery include use of nanoparticles to visualize tumor during surgery as aid to proper removal, and nanorobotics for remotely controlled diagnostics combined with therapeutics. Selected new developments in nanooncology have been highlighted in this review and these point to an important role in development of personalized oncology.

Stability and delivery of RNA via the gastrointestinal tract

Oral RNA has been used in the past as a nutritional supplement as well as a therapeutic agent for several disorders. It is difficult to validate any of the therapeutic claims in the absence of scientific studies and in view of the instability of orally administered RNA. Absorption from the gastrointestinal tract remains questionable. Most of the current efforts in relation to oral RNA are devoted to oral administration of siRNA for therapeutic purposes. A hypothesis is presented of the usefulness of RNA as a nutraceutical. After review of the available literature, role of mRNA in the body, and various routes of administration, suggestions are made for possible methods to improve delivery of RNA and to study its pharmacokinetics. There is commercial potential for such a product if absorption by oral route can be verified as it is easy to administer and can be produced at lower cost than intravenous preparations.

Nanomedicine: application of nanobiotechnology in medical practice

Nanomedicine is the application of nanobiotechnologies to medicine. This article starts with the basics of nanobiotechnology, followed by its applications in molecular diagnostics, nanodiagnostics, and improvements in the discovery, design and delivery of drugs, including nanopharmaceuticals. It will improve biological therapies such as vaccination, cell therapy and gene therapy. Nanobiotechnology forms the basis of many new devices being developed for medicine and surgery such as nanorobots. It has applications in practically every branch of medicine and examples are presented of those concerning cancer (nanooncology), neurological disorders (nanoneurology), cardiovascular disorders (nanocardiology), diseases of bones and joints (nanoorthopedics), diseases of the eye (nanoophthalmology), and infectious diseases. Safety issues of in vivo use of nanomaterials are also discussed. Nanobiotechnology will facilitate the integration of diagnostics with therapeutics and facilitate the development of personalized medicine, i.e. prescription of specific therapeutics best suited for an individual. Many of the developments have already started and within a decade a definite impact will be felt in the practice of medicine.

Use of nanoparticles for drug delivery in glioblastoma multiforme

Treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a primary malignant tumor of the brain, is one of the most challenging problems as no currently available treatment is curative. Surgery remains the basic treatment in which the bulk of the tumor is removed and the peripheral infiltrating part is the target of supplementary treatments. The currently available anticancer therapeutics have less than optimal usefulness for GBM, mainly owing to delivery problems to the tumor, including those due to blood-brain barrier. Several new therapies in development for GBM will require innovative methods of delivery besides the current practice of direct introduction of drugs and devices into the tumor. Nanobiotechnology, particularly nanoparticles, is making a significant contribution to the improvement of drug delivery in cancer and many of these technologies can be applied to GBM. Nanobiotechnology can provide a platform for combination of diagnostics, therapeutics, and its delivery to the tumor with subsequent monitoring of response. These technologies are reviewed and the prospects of improvement of therapeutic delivery to the brain are excellent during the next 5 years. Curing of GBM, however, depends on discovery of an anticancer agent that will destroy GBM completely.

Nanobiotechnology-Based Drug Delivery to the Central Nervous System

BACKGROUND

Drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a major limitation in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Several approaches are being investigated to improve drug delivery across the BBB.

OBJECTIVE/METHODS

This review deals with the role of nanobiotechnology in CNS drug delivery. The small size of the nanoparticles enables them to penetrate the BBB and facilitate the delivery of drugs across the barrier. Several mechanisms are involved in this process and various strategies are used based on different types of nanomaterial and combinations with therapeutic agents. Examples are given of the use of liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles.

RESULTS

Nanoparticles can be used as nonviral vectors for CNS gene therapy. Although the use of nanotechnology is expected to reduce the need for invasive procedures for delivery of therapeutics to the CNS, some devices such as implanted catheters and reservoirs will still be needed. Nanomaterials can improve the safety and efficacy of such devices. Nano-engineered probes can deliver drugs at the cellular level using nanofluidic channels. There is some concern about the safety of nanoparticle entry in the brain and this needs to be resolved before human use.

CONCLUSION

Although there is no approved nanotechnology-based CNS drug as yet that incorporates nanobiotechnology, the future for such developments is promising.

Commercial potential of RNAi

The commercial potential of RNAi is assessed on the basis of successful translation of technology into applications in three areas: (1) drug discovery and research-currently the biggest segment; (2) potential therapeutic applications; and (3) the role of microRNA in molecular diagnostics. RNAi is an important method for analyzing gene function and identifying new drug targets that use dsRNA to knock down or silence specific genes. Sets of siRNAs focused on a specific gene class (siRNA libraries) have the capacity to greatly increase the pace of pathway analysis and functional genomics. RNAi plays an important role in drug discovery by facilitating target validation. The discovery of the role of microRNA (miRNAs) in various pathological processes opens up possible applications in molecular diagnostics, particularly that of cancer. The advantages of RNAi-based therapeutics over traditional pharmaceuticals include the capability for more specific therapies with small molecule siRNA. Drawbacks include the development of resistance in cancer and viral infections as well as the interferon effect. RNAi is closely related to gene therapy and the vectors developed for gene therapy are also being used for delivery of siRNAs. RNAi, along with other related technologies, will contribute to the development of personalised medicine. Although none of the RNAi-based drugs is in the market yet, some are in clinical trials. By the year 2010 the market for RNAi-based drugs is expected to be worth 3.5 billion dollars and is expected to expand to 10.5 billion dollars by the year 2015.

Personalised medicine for cancer: from drug development into clinical practice

Personalised management of cancer means the prescription of specific therapeutics that are best suited for an individual patient and the type of tumour. Molecular diagnostics influences cancer management in several ways that aid personalisation. These technologies are enabling the classification of cancer, using molecular profiles, as a basis for more effective personalised therapies. Using microarrays, classification of a cancer based on the gene expression profile is important for personalising cancer therapy. Molecular imaging, such as by positron emission tomography, enables determination of tumour response to drug action at the molecular level. The combination of diagnostics with therapeutics--an important feature of personalised cancer therapy--is facilitated by the use of monoclonal antibodies and nanobiotechnology. Development of drug resistance--an important problem in cancer management--varies according to the anticancer agent, type of tumour and individual patient. There are no universal strategies to overcome drug resistance in cancer. Various efforts to deal with this problem should be tailored to each patient, and examples are given in this review. A better understanding of cancer biology will facilitate rational drug discovery for cancer, by linking the various pathways involved to targeted therapies. Oncoproteomics will play an important role in the development of personalised cancer therapy. Use of pharmacogenomic technologies in early clinical trials is enabling rapid assessment of the efficacy of anticancer agents, and reducing the time of drug development. Application of pharmacogenetics will reduce the adverse effect of anticancer drugs. Cell/gene therapies, cancer vaccines and RNA interference will facilitate the development of personalised cancer therapy.

Nanoparticles as targeting ligands

A recently published technique enables the attachment of small molecules to nanoparticles for improved targeting of nanomaterials. This new methodology has been compared with some of the other nanoparticle-based techniques for target discovery and found to be more versatile and specific. This approach has potential for high-throughput drug discovery, improved drug delivery and linking of diagnostics to therapeutics for the development of personalized medicines.

Role of nanobiotechnology in developing personalized medicine for cancer

Personalized medicine simply means the prescription of specific therapeutics best suited for an individual. Personalization of cancer therapies is based on a better understanding of the disease at the molecular level. Nanotechnology will play an important role in this area. Nanobiotechnology is being used to refine discovery of biomarkers, molecular diagnostics, drug discovery and drug delivery, which are important basic components of personalized medicine and are applicable to management of cancer as well. Examples are given of the application of quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, and molecular imaging in diagnostics and combination with therapeutics -- another important feature of personalized medicine. Personalized medicine is beginning to be recognized and is expected to become a part of medical practice within the next decade. Personalized management of cancer, facilitated by nanobiotechnology, is expected to enable early detection of cancer, more effective and less toxic treatment increasing the chances of cure.

Ethical and regulatory aspects of embryonic stem cell research

Ethical issues concerning human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research are reviewed three years after the controversy became a public and political issue in the US and two years after the last article on this topic, which also covered the religious aspects. There are still no consistent regulations worldwide on the regulation of research on hESCs, and debate is still ongoing in some countries. New developments require a reassessment of the situation. In the US, the debate is politically driven. Regulations still vary from one country to another and there are no universally uniform ethical and regulatory standards for hESC research. At present, the most liberal and favourable environments for hESC research are in the UK, Singapore, Sweden, India, Israel and China. In the US, there is no change in the policy of the current government, but developments in the industrial sector and academic institutions, which are not dependent on government funding, are encouraging for future progress. Considerable advances have taken place in hESC research during the past few years to justify a relaxation of restrictions, and suggestions are offered to improve the ethical and regulatory environments for hESC research.

Proteomic technologies for cancer target validation

Genomic and proteomic technologies have produced an abundance of drug targets, which is creating a bottleneck in drug development process. There is an increasing need for better target validation for cancer drug development and proteomic technologies are contributing to it. These technologies are compared to enable the selection of the one by matching the needs of a particular project. There are prospects for further improvement, and proteomics technologies will form an important addition to the existing genomic and chemical technologies for target validation.

Brachial plexopathy: a clinical and electrophysiological study

BACKGROUND

A retrospective study to evaluate the clinical and electrophysiological profile of brachial plexus lesions in a tertiary care center of India.

METHODS

Thirty eight patients with brachial plexopathy (idiopathic or traumatic) with detailed electrophysiological studies were sampled. This included detailed motor and sensory nerve conduction studies of the conventional median, ulnar and radial nerves of the upper limbs, CMAP from deltoid, biceps and triceps on stimulating the ERB's point, needle EMG in the appropriate muscles and paraspinal muscles. The electrophysiological studies were performed on both sides irrespective of the clinical involvement and were recorded within 1.61 +/- 2.89 months in idiopathic group and 2.11 +/- 2.65 months in traumatic plexopathy group. The severity of involvement was assessed on MRC scale. ADL scale was used to assess the disability at presentation and subsequent follow up.

RESULTS

12 patients (11 male and 01 female) had idiopathic brachial plexopathy and 26 patients (all male) had traumatic brachial plexopathy. In the idiopathic group the lesion was localized to upper trunk in 58.3% of patients and middle trunk (posterior cord) in 41.66% and none had lower trunk or diffuse involvement. 25% had bilateral involvement. Two patients (16.6%) with idiopathic plexitis had recurrence involving the opposite side during the follow up. In the traumatic group the lesion was localized to the upper trunk in 11.53%, middle trunk (posterior cord) in 57.69% and 30.76% of patients had diffuse involvement. All the patients in traumatic plexopathy group had severe disability while in idiopathic group 91.66% had severe disability and 8.33% had moderate disability. Low amplitude CMAP and F wave abnormality were seen in 16.6% of patients in idiopathic group. On needle EMG 83.3% had fasciculation or fibrillations while none had paraspinal EMG abnormality. In traumatic group low to absent CMAP was seen in 69.2% and 76.92% had F wave abnormality. SNAPs were not recordable in 53.8%. On Needle EMG all the patients showed fasciculation or fibrillations and only 6 (23.0%) had paraspinal muscle fibrillations. Root avulsion could be documented in only four of these cases on MR imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

Recovery in the traumatic group correlated well with the electrophysiological abnormalities while no such correlation was evident in the idiopathic group.

Role of pharmacoproteomics in the development of personalized medicine

Pharmacoproteomics is the use of proteomic technologies in drug discovery and development. Along with pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics, pharmacoproteomics will play an important role in the development of personalized medicines in several ways. Proteomic technologies are contributing to molecular diagnostics, which is a basis of personalized medicine. Pharmacoproteomics is a more functional representation of patient-to-patient variation than that provided by genotyping. Proteomics-based characterization of multifactorial diseases may help to match a particular target-based therapy to a particular marker in a subgroup of patients. Individualized therapy may be based on differential protein expression rather than a genetic polymorphism. Finally, proteomic technologies would enable discovery and development of drugs suitable for personalized therapy. Protein chips will be used increasingly in clinical diagnostics in the next 5 years, particularly in the point-of-care diagnostics. This will facilitate the practice of personalized medicine in the clinic by the end of this decade.

Current status of fluorescent in-situ hybridisation

Several modifications have taken place in fluorescent in-situ hybridisation (FISH) techniques, including comparative genomic hybridisation, primed in-situ labelling, interphase FISH, multicolour FISH and in combination with peptide nucleic acid technology. FISH can also be combined with microarrays. Selected innovative technologies are described. The most clinically important applications are in cytogenetics and oncology.

Current status of molecular biosensors

Innovations in biosensors have come about as a result of improvements in the biological components and the implementation of microsystems technologies. This article reports on some of the latest product developments in this area and highlights future trends.

Nanodiagnostics: application of nanotechnology in molecular diagnostics

Nanotechnology extends the limits of molecular diagnostics to the nanoscale. Nanotechnology-on-a-chip is one more dimension of microfluidic/lab-on-a-chip technology. Biological tests measuring the presence or activity of selected substances become quicker, more sensitive and more flexible when certain nanoscale particles are put to work as tags or labels. Magnetic nanoparticles, bound to a suitable antibody, are used to label specific molecules, structures or microorganisms. Magnetic immunoassay techniques have been developed in which the magnetic field generated by the magnetically labeled targets is detected directly with a sensitive magnetometer. Gold nanoparticles tagged with short segments of DNA can be used for detection of genetic sequence in a sample. Multicolor optical coding for biological assays has been achieved by embedding different-sized quantum dots into polymeric microbeads. Nanopore technology for analysis of nucleic acids converts strings of nucleotides directly into electronic signatures. DNA nanomachines can function as biomolecular detectors for homogeneous assays. Nanobarcodes, submicrometer metallic barcodes with striping patterns prepared by sequential electrochemical depositon of metal, show differential reflectivity of adjacent stripes enabling identification of the striping patterns by conventional light microscopy. All this has applications in population diagnostics and in point-of-care hand-held devices.

Current trends in molecular diagnostics

Rapid progress in molecular diagnostics is expected to fundamentally change health care. This review of some of the latest innovations covers developments in polymerase chain reaction (PCR), several nonPCR methods, and biochips and nanotechnology, which have accelerated advances in the analysis of nucleic acids and proteins. The greatest impact is likely to be in the integration of diagnosis and therapy and the development of individualized treatment.