Rhodamine B, an organic environmental pollutant induces reproductive toxicity in parental and teratogenicity in F1 generation in vivo

This study investigated the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B in zebrafish and its transgenerational effects on the F1 generation. In silico toxicity predictions revealed high toxicity of rhodamine B, mainly targeting pathways associated with the reproductive and endocrine systems. In vivo experiments on zebrafish demonstrated that rhodamine B exposure at a concentration of 1.5 mg/L led to significant impairments in fecundity parameters, particularly affecting females. Histopathological analysis revealed distinct changes in reproductive organs, further confirming the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B, with females being more susceptible than males. Gene expression studies indicated significant suppression of genes crucial for ovulation in rhodamine B-treated female fish, highlighting hormonal imbalance as a potential mechanism of reproductive toxicity. Furthermore, bioaccumulation studies showed the presence of rhodamine B in both adult fish gonads and F1 generation samples, suggesting transgenerational transfer of the dye. Embryotoxicity studies on F1 generation larvae demonstrated reduced survival rates, lower hatching rates, and increased malformations in groups exposed to rhodamine B. Moreover, rhodamine B induced oxidative stress in F1 generation larvae, as evidenced by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species and altered antioxidant enzyme activity. Neurotoxicity assessments revealed reduced acetylcholinesterase activity, indicating potential neurological impairments in F1 generation larvae. Additionally, locomotory defects and skeletal abnormalities were observed in F1 generation larvae exposed to rhodamine B. This study provides comprehensive evidence of the reproductive toxicity of rhodamine B in adult zebrafish and its transgenerational effects on the F1 generation.

Daidzein ameliorates nonmotor symptoms of manganese-induced Parkinsonism in zebrafish model: Behavioural and biochemical approach

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative movement disorder characterized by motor dysfunction. Environmental factors, especially manganese (Mn), contribute significantly to PD. Existing therapies are focused on motor coordination, whereas nonmotor features such as neuropsychiatric symptoms are often neglected. Daidzein (DZ), a phytoestrogen, has piqued interest due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties. Therefore, we anticipate that DZ might be an effective drug to alleviate the nonmotor symptoms of Mn-induced Parkinsonism.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Naïve zebrafish were exposed to 2 mM of Mn for 21 days and intervened with DZ. Nonmotor symptoms such as anxiety, social behaviour, and olfactory function were assessed. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and antioxidant enzyme status were measured from brain tissue through biochemical assays. Dopamine levels and histology were performed to elucidate neuroprotective mechanism of DZ.

KEY RESULTS

DZ exhibited anxiolytic effects in a novel environment and also improved intra and inter fish social behaviour. DZ improved the olfactory function and response to amino acid stimuli in Mn-induced Parkinsonism. DZ reduced brain oxidative stress and AChE activity and prevented neuronal damage. DZ increased DA level in the brain, collectively contributing to neuroprotection.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

DZ demonstrated a promising effect on alleviating nonmotor symptoms such as anxiety and olfactory dysfunction, through the mitigation of cellular damage. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of DZ in addressing nonmotor neurotoxicity induced by heavy metals, particularly in the context of Mn-induced Parkinsonism.

Co-encapsulation and release of apigenin and ascorbic acid in polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules for targeted polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, is linked to hormonal imbalances and oxidative stress. Our study investigates the regenerative potential of apigenin (AP, hydrophobic) and ascorbic acid (AC, hydrophilic) encapsulated within poly (allylamine hydrochloride) and dextran sulfate (PAH/DS) hollow microcapsules for PCOS. These microcapsules, constructed using a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly, are found to be 4 ± 0.5 μm in size. Our research successfully demonstrates the co-encapsulation of AP and AC in a single PAH/DS system with high encapsulation efficiency followed by successful release at physiological conditions by CLSM investigations. In vitro tests with testosterone-treated CHO cells reveal that the dual-drug-loaded PAH/DS capsules effectively reduce intracellular ROS levels and apoptosis and offering protection. In an in-vivo zebrafish model, these capsules demonstrate active biodistribution to targeted ovaries and reduce testosterone levels through radical scavenging. Histopathological examinations show that the injected dual-drug-loaded PAH/DS microcapsules assist in the development of ovarian follicles in testosterone-treated zebrafish. Hence, this dual-drug-loaded system, capable of co-encapsulating two natural compounds, effectively interacts with ovarian cells, reducing cellular damage and normalizing PCOS conditions.

HPLC purification of antioxidant and antibacterial peptides from a lichen "Parmotrema perlatum (Huds.) M. Choisy": Identification by LC-MS/MS peptide mass fingerprinting

Parmotrema perlatum, a lichen belonging to the family Parmeliaceae, is well known for its culinary benefits and aroma used as a condiment in Indian homes is also known as the "black stone flower" or "kalpasi" in India. This research intends to analyze the antioxidant power of the crude extracts using four pH-based buffers solubilized proteins/peptides and RP-HPLC fractions of P. perlatum obtained by purification. The proteins that were extracted from the four different buffers were examined using LC-MS/MS-based peptide mass fingerprinting. When compared to the other buffers, the 0.1 M of Tris-HCl buffer pH 8.0 solubilized proteins/peptides had the strongest antioxidant capacity. The sequential purification of the peptide was carried out by using a 3-kDa cut-off membrane filter and semipreparative RP-HPLC. Additionally, the purified fractions of the peptide's antioxidant activity were assessed, and effects were compared with those of the crude and 3 kDa cut--off membrane filtrates. The peptide fractions were sequenced by LC-MS/MS, which reveals that fraction 2 from RP-HPLC with the sequence LSWFMVVAP has shown the highest antioxidant potential in comparison with other fractions which can serve as the potential natural antioxidant drug. Further, fraction 2 also showed antibacterial activity against the selected microorganisms.

Study of an inhibitory effect of plant polyphenolic compounds against digestive enzymes using bench-working experimental evidence predicted by molecular docking and dynamics

The substantial nutritional content and diversified biological activity of plant-based nutraceuticals are due to polyphenolic chemicals. These chemicals are important and well-studied plant secondary metabolites. Their protein interactions are extensively studied. This relationship is crucial for the logical development of functional food and for enhancing the availability and usefulness of polyphenols. This study highlights the influence of protein types and polyphenols on the interaction, where the chemical bindings predominantly consist of hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The interaction between polyphenolic compounds (PCs) and digestive enzymes concerning their inhibitory activity has not been fully studied. Therefore, we have examined the interaction of four digestive enzymes (α-amylase, pepsin, trypsin, and α-chymotrypsin) with four PCs (curcumin, diosmin, morin, and 2',3',4'-trihydroxychalcone) through in silico and in vitro approaches. In vitro plate assays, enzyme kinetics, spectroscopic assays, molecular docking, and simulations were performed. We observed all these PCs have significant docking scores and preferable interaction with the active site of the digestive enzymes, resulting in the reduction of enzyme activity. The enzyme-substrate binding mechanism was determined using the Lineweaver Burk plot, indicating that the inhibition occurred competitively. Among four PCs diosmin and morin has the highest interaction energy over digestive enzymes with IC50 value of 1.13 ± 0.0047 and 1.086 ± 0.0131 μM. Kinetic studies show that selected PCs inhibited pepsin, trypsin, and chymotrypsin competitively and inhibited amylase in a non-competitive manner, especially by 2',3',4'-trihydroxychalcone. This study offers insights into the mechanisms by which the selected PCs inhibit the enzymes and has the potential to enhance the application of curcumin, diosmin, morin, and 2',3',4'-trihydroxychalcone as natural inhibitors of digestive enzymes.

Exploring the Combined Effect of Exercise and Apigenin on Aluminium-Induced Neurotoxicity in Zebrafish

Aluminium (AL) is a strong environmental neurotoxin linked to neurodegenerative disorders. Widespread industrial use leads to its presence in water systems, causing bioaccumulation in organisms. This, in turn, results in the bioaccumulation of AL in various organisms. Several studies have highlighted the benefits of enhanced physical activity in combating neurodegenerative diseases. Meanwhile widespread presence of apigenin in aquatic environment has been largely overlooked, in terms of its potential to counter AL-induced neurotoxicity. The combined impact of exercise and apigenin in mitigating the effects of AL-induced neurotoxicity in aquatic animals remains unexplored. Hence, the objective of this study is to determine whether the combined treatment of exercise and apigenin can effectively alleviate the chronic neurotoxicity induced by AL. Zebrafish that were exposed to AL showed behaviours resembling anxiety, increased aggression, unusual swimming pattern, and memory impairment, which are typical features observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like syndrome. Combined treatment of exercise and apigenin protects zebrafish from AL-induced neurotoxicity, which was measured by improvements in memory, reduced anxiety and aggression, and increased levels of antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Furthermore, AL exposure is associated with increased expression of genes related to neuroinflammation and AD. However, synergistic effect of exercise and apigenin counteract this effect in AL-treated zebrafish. These findings suggest that AL is involved in neurodegenerative diseases in fish, which could affect the integrity of aquatic ecosystem. Hence, there is a strong correlation between enhanced physical activity, apigenin, and the well-being of the ecosystem.

Synthetic azo-dye, Tartrazine induces neurodevelopmental toxicity via mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in zebrafish embryos

Tartrazine (TZ), or E 102 or C Yellow, is a commonly used azo dye in the food and dyeing industries. Its excessive usage beyond permissible levels threatens human health and the aquatic environment. While previous studies have reported adverse effects such as mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity. Our study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the developmental neurotoxicity of TZ exposure via biochemical and behavioral examinations and explored the underlying mechanism via gene expression analyses. TZ at an environmentally relevant concentration (50 mg/L) significantly induces oxidative stress, altered antioxidant (SOD, CAT and GSH) response, triggered cellular damage (MDA and LDH), and induced neuro-biochemical changes (AChE and NO). Gene expression analyses revealed broad disruptions in genes associated with antioxidant defense (sod1, cat, and gstp1), mitochondrial dysfunction (mfn2, opa1, and fis1),evoked inflammatory response (nfkb, tnfa, and il1b), apoptosis activation (bcl2, bax, and p53), and neural development (bdnf, mbp, and syn2a). Behavioral analysis indicated altered thigmotaxis, touch response, and locomotion depending on the concentration of TZ exposure. Remarkably, the observed effective concentrations were consistent with the permitted levels in food products, highlighting the neurodevelopmental effects of TZ at environmentally relevant concentrations. These findings provide valuable insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly the role of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, contributing to TZ-induced neurodevelopmental disorders in vivo.

Impact of butylparaben on β-cell damage and insulin/PEPCK expression in zebrafish larvae: Protective effects of morin

Butylparaben (BP), a common chemical preservative in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, has been known to induce oxidative stress and disrupt endocrine function in humans. In contrast, morin, a flavonoid derived from the Moraceae family, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Despite this, the protective role of morin against oxidative stress-induced damage in pancreatic islets remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the potential protective mechanism of morin against oxidative stress-induced damage caused by BP in zebrafish larvae. To achieve this, we exposed the zebrafish larvae to butylparaben (2.5 mg/L) for 5 days, leading to increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in β-cells. However, our compelling findings revealed that pretreatment with various concentrations of morin effectively reduced mortality and mitigated apoptosis and lipid peroxidation in β-cells induced by BP exposure. In addition, zebrafish larvae exposed to BP for 5 days exhibited evident β-cell damage. However, the pretreatment with morin showed promising effects by promoting β-cell proliferation and lowering glucose levels. Furthermore, gene expression studies indicated that morin pretreatment normalized PEPCK expression while increasing insulin expression in BP-exposed larvae. In conclusion, our findings highlight the potential of morin as a protective agent against BP-induced β-cell damage in zebrafish larvae. The observed improvements in oxidative stress, apoptosis, and gene expression patterns support the notion that morin could be further explored as a therapeutic candidate to counteract the detrimental effects of BP exposure on pancreatic β-cells.

Skeletal and neurological risks demonstrated in zebrafish due to second-hand cigarette smoke and the neutralization of luteolin

BACKGROUND

Cigarette smoke exposure poses significant health risks, including oxidative stress, inflammation, tissue damage, and neurodegenerative diseases. Luteolin, a natural flavonoid known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is of interest in countering these effects.

AIM

This study aims to assess luteolin's protective potential against cigarette smoke extract (CSE) in adult zebrafish.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult zebrafish were exposed to CSE for 15 days, inducing smoke-related damage. Subsequent luteolin treatment assessed its impact. Evaluations included antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT), nitric oxide (NO), LDH activity (cellular damage), tissue integrity, fibrosis, amyloid plaque accumulation, and CSE component analysis via HPLC.

KEY FINDINGS

CSE exposure heightened oxidative stress, reducing SOD and CAT activity and elevating NO levels, leading to cellular damage and tissue disruption, notably fibrosis and amyloid plaque accumulation. Inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-1β also increased. Luteolin treatment restored SOD and CAT activity, reduced LDH and NO activity, counteracting oxidative damage. It also mitigated fibrosis and reduced amyloid plaque deposition, preserving tissue integrity. Luteolin reduced TNF-α and IL-1β levels and CSE components, displaying anti-inflammatory effects.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study underscores luteolin's potential as a protective agent against cigarette smoke-induced harm in a zebrafish model.

Ophthalmic Intervention of Naringenin Decreases Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor by Counteracting Oxidative Stress and Cellular Damage in In Vivo Zebrafish

Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disease that leads to microvascular complications like Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major cause of blindness worldwide. Current medications for DR are expensive and report multiple side effects; therefore, an alternative medication that alleviates the disease condition is required. An interventional approach targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) remains a treatment strategy for DR. Anti-VEGF medicines are being investigated as the main therapy for managing vision-threatening complications of DR, such as diabetic macular oedema. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of flavonoid naringenin (NG) from citrus fruits on inhibiting early DR in zebrafish. When exposed to 130 mM glucose, the zebrafish larvae developed a hyperglycaemic condition accompanied by oxidative stress, cellular damage, and lipid peroxidation. Similarly, when adult zebrafish were exposed to 4% Glucose, high glucose levels were observed in the ocular region and massive destruction in the retinal membrane. High glucose upregulated the expression of VEGF. In comparison, the co-exposure to NG inhibited oxidative stress and cellular damage and restored the glutathione levels in the ocular region of the zebrafish larvae. NG regressed the glucose levels and cellular damage along with an inhibition of macular degeneration in the retina of adult zebrafish and normalized the overexpression of VEGF as a promising strategy for treating DR. Therefore, intervention of NG could alleviate the domestication of alternative medicine in ophthalmic research.

Luteolin, a promising quorum quencher mitigates virulence factors production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa - In vitro and in vivo approach

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is an opportunistic pathogen that causes healthcare-associated infection and high mortality in immunocompromised patients. It produces several virulence factors through quorum sensing (QS) mechanisms that is essential for subverting host immune system. Even front-line antibiotics are unable to control PA pathogenicity due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Luteolin is a naturally derived compound that has proven to be the effective drug to annihilate pathogens through quorum quenching mechanism. In this study, the protective effect of luteolin against the PA-mediated inflammation was demonstrated using zebrafish model. Luteolin protects zebrafish from PA infection and increases their survival rate. It was found that PA-mediated ROS, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis were also significantly reduced in luteolin-treated zebrafish larvae. Open field test (OFT) reveals that luteolin rescued PA-infected zebrafish from retarded swimming behavior. Furthermore, luteolin increases SOD and CAT levels and decreases LDH and NO levels in PA-infected zebrafish compare to control group. Histological and gene expression analysis reveals that luteolin protects PA-infected zebrafish by decreasing gut inflammation and altering the expression of inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and antioxidant markers (iNOS, SOD, CAT). Thus, luteolin was found to have dual effect in protecting PA-infected zebrafish by decreasing virulence factors production in PA and stimulating host immune system. This is the first study demonstrating the protective effect of luteolin using animal model. Hence, luteolin could be used as a future therapeutic drug to control multi-drug resistant PA.

Complete genome sequencing of Bacillus subtilis (CWTS 5), a siderophore-producing bacterium triggers antagonistic potential against Ralstonia solanacearum

Aim

The aims of this study were to explore the antagonistic potential of siderophore-producing Bacillus subtilis (CWTS 5) for the suppression of Ralstonia solanacearum and to explore the mechanisms of inhibition by FTIR, LC-MS, and whole genome analysis.

Methods and results

A siderophore-producing B. subtilis (CWTS 5) possessing several plant growth-promoting properties such as IAA and ACC deaminase production, phosphate solubilisation, and nitrogen fixation was assessed for its inhibitory effect against R. solanacearum, and its mechanisms were explored by in vitro and in vivo analyses. The active secondary metabolites in the siderophore extracts were identified as 2-deoxystreptamine, miserotoxin, fumitremorgin C, pipercide, pipernonaline, gingerone A, and deoxyvasicinone by LC-MS analysis. The Arnow's test and antiSMASH analysis confirmed the presence of catecholate siderophores, and the functional groups determined by FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of secondary metabolites in the siderophore extract possessing antagonistic effect. The complete genome sequence of CWTS 5 revealed the gene clusters responsible for siderophore, antibiotics, secondary metabolite production, and antibacterial and antifungal metabolites. Furthermore, the evaluation of CWTS 5 against R. solanacearum in pot studies demonstrated 40.0% reduced disease severity (DSI) by CWTS 5, methanolic extract (DSI-26.6%), ethyl acetate extract (DSI-20.0%), and increased plant growth such as root and shoot length, wet weight and dry weight of Solanum lycopersicum L. owing to its antagonistic potential. This genomic insight will support future studies on the application of B. subtilis as a plant growth promoter and biocontrol agent against R. solanacearum for bacterial wilt management.

Conclusion

The results of this study revealed that B. subtilis (CWTS 5) possesses multiple mechanisms that control R. solanacearum, reduce disease incidence, and improve S. lycopersicum growth.

Syringol, a wildfire residual methoxyphenol causes cytotoxicity and teratogenicity in zebrafish model

Natural toxicants, particularly methoxy phenols (MPs) generated by wildfire lignin, can accumulate in the environment, and cause serious health hazards in living organisms. Although the toxicity of MPs such as guaiacol and catechol has recently been described, there is minimal evidence of ecotoxicological effects of syringol. As a result, this study focuses on determining the toxicity by evaluating the cytotoxic and teratogenic effects of syringol in vitro and in vivo in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells and zebrafish embryos, respectively. The ecotoxicity of syringol was predicted to be 63.8 mg/L using the ECOSAR (ECOlogical Structure Activity Relationship) prediction tool, and molecular docking analysis was used to determine the interaction and binding affinities of syringol with human apoptotic proteins in silico. In HEK-293 cells, exposure of syringol (0.5-2 mg/L) has induced cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner. In zebrafish larvae, exposure of syringol (0.5-2 mg/L) has induced dose-dependent embryo toxic effects (or growth abnormalities such as yolk sac edema, pericardial edema, skeletal abnormality, and hyperemia), and changes in growth morphometrics (head height, eye, yolk sac, and pericardial area, heart rate) in particular, the heart rate of larvae was found to be significantly decreased (p<0.001). After a 4-day experimental trial, the accumulated concentration of syringol in zebrafish larvae was confirmed both qualitatively (HPLC-MS - High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass spectrometry) and quantitatively (LC-QTOF-HRMS - Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupolar Time of Flight-High Resolution Mass spectrometry). The craniofacial abnormalities induced by syringol exposure (0.5-2 mg/L) were detected as anomalies in cartilaginous development and locomotor deficits using alcian blue staining and locomotor analyses, respectively. Significant increase in oxidative stress parameters (including reactive oxygen species generation, lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, catalase, lactate dehydrogenase and nitric oxide production) (p<0.001) and substantial decrease in glutathione levels were observed (p<0.05) in syringol exposed zebrafish larvae through enzymatic analysis. Additionally, through acridine orange staining and gene expression analyses, syringol (2 mg/L) was found to activate apoptosis in zebrafish larvae. Considering the cytotoxic, embryotoxic (teratogenicity), and oxidative stress-related apoptotic effects of syringol in the zebrafish model, syringol has the potential to emerge as a potent environmental toxicant posing serious health hazards in many living systems; however, further research on its toxicological effects on the actual ecosystem and in higher animal models is required to confirm its consequences.

Copper sulfate induced toxicological impact on in-vivo zebrafish larval model protected due to acacetin via anti-inflammatory and glutathione redox mechanism

Copper sulfate (CuSO₄) as industrial effluent is intentionally or unintentionally released into water bodies and accumulates in the fish. Because of its numerous applications, CuSO₄ can be hazardous to non-target creatures, producing direct alterations in fish habitats. Acacetin is a flavonoid present in all vascular plants that are extensively dispersed in plant pigments and responsible for many natural hues. However, the impact of acacetin on mitigating the toxic effect of CuSO₄ in the in-vivo conditions is not known. The toxicity of acacetin was determined by measuring the survival, deformities and heart rate after treatment with various concentrations to larvae. The protective effect of acacetin was also observed in CuSO₄ exposed zebrafish larvae by reducing malformation, mortality rate and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, the acacetin-protected larvae from CuSO₄ effects through the molecular mechanism by suppressing pro-inflammatory genes (COX-2, TNF-α and IL-1) and upregulating antioxidant genes (GPx, GST and GR). Overall, our findings suggest that acacetin can act as a protective barrier against CuSO₄-induced inflammation in an in-vivo zebrafish larval model.

Morin inhibits colon cancer stem cells by inhibiting PUM1 expression in vitro

Over the last few decades, the number of people diagnosed with cancer has increased dramatically every year, making it a major cause of mortality today. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, and the second in mortality rate. Current cancer treatment fails to treat colon cancer completely due to the remains of Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs). Morin flavonoid present in figs (Ficus carica) and other plant sources, was found to have an anti-proliferative effect on the colon cancer model and cell line, but it is not studied for its effect on the colon CSCs. In this study, we have tested the potency of morin to inhibit CSCs. We found that morin has significantly reduced colon cancer cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and colonospheroid formation in a dose-dependent manner. Pumilio-1 (PUM1) has been shown to play an important role in colon CSCs maintenance. We found that morin has a good binding affinity with PUM1 protein with one hydrophobic and two hydrogen bond interactions. Further, the immunofluorescence results have also shown a reduction in PUM1 expression in colon cancer cell lines after morin treatment. CD133 is overexpressed in colon CSCs and morin treatment has reduced the CD133 expression in HCT116 and CT26 colon cancer cell lines. Our research outcome has explored the anti-cancer stem cell potency of morin via targeting the PUM1 protein and further reducing the colon spheroids formation and reducing the CD133 expression in colon cancer cells.

Neuroprotective effect of Biochanin a against Bisphenol A-induced prenatal neurotoxicity in zebrafish by modulating oxidative stress and locomotory defects

Exogenous toxicants cause oxidative stress and damage to brain cells, resulting in inflammation. Neuroinflammation is important in the pathobiology of various neurological illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this context, Bisphenol A (BPA), a common toxin, causes oxidative damage and has been linked to neurological problems. An O-methylated isoflavone known as Biochanin A (5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-isoflavone, BCA) is considered to be a phytoestrogen, which is abundant in some legume plants and soy which have preventive effects against cancer, osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms and oxidative stress. However, the mechanism by which BCA protected the prenatal neurological stress are not known. So that, in this study we investigated the BCA neuroprotective effect against BPA-induced neuroinflammation in zebrafish embryo models. For this study, fertilized zebrafish embryos are exposed to BPA (1 µM) with or without BCA. Our finding suggested that BCA co-exposure prevented the depletion of antioxidant defense enzymes by BPA and reduced the production of intracellular ROS production, superoxide anion (O₂^-), lipid peroxidation (LPO), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in the head that aided in safeguarding neuronal development. Baseline locomotion was rendered and a total distance was calculated to assess the motor function. Exposure to BCA increased acetylcholinestrase (AChE) and improved motor neuron functions. It also reduced the pro-inflammatory response expression and prevented neuroinflammation. Our study suggests that BCA has a positive role in the attenuation or amelioration of neuronal oxidative damage and locomotory behaviour induced by BPA.

Daidzein normalized gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and associated pro-inflammatory cytokines in MDCK and zebrafish: Possible mechanism of nephroprotection

This study investigates the therapeutic activity of daidzein, an isoflavone that occurs naturally in plants and herbs, against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells in-vitro and zebrafish model in-vivo. The in-vitro studies revealed that daidzein protected MDCK cells from gentamicin-induced inflammation by suppressing oxidative stress and apoptosis. The zebrafish were divided into groups and injected with gentamicin (140 mg/mL) to induce nephrotoxic conditions. After injection, renal dysfunction, nitric oxide production, antioxidant consumption, exaggerated apoptosis, and inflammation were all observed in the zebrafish model. We also observed that during kidney inflammation in zebrafish, pro-inflammatory cytokines such as cyclooxygenase (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) are upregulated. Furthermore, daidzein treatment after gentamicin injection showed a strong protective anti-inflammatory effect. Daidzein activity was associated with an increase in antioxidant biomarkers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase (GSH), whereas lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitric oxide (NO) production were decreased in a dose-dependent factor. Moreover, histopathological alteration caused by gentamicin in zebrafish kidneys was normalized due to daidzein treatment. Daidzein also downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression in gentamicin-induced kidney inflammation in zebrafish. These results revealed that daidzein could potentially prevent nephrotoxic conditions through pro-inflammatory cytokines inhibition and its antioxidant property.

Protective effect of morin by targeting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species induced by hydrogen peroxide demonstrated at a molecular level in MDCK epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

The development of diabetic nephropathy is aided by the presence of oxidative stress. Morin, a natural flavonoid molecule, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties. However, little is known about the mechanism of its protective effect in diabetic nephropathy pathogenesis caused by oxidative stress.

METHODS

Using Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells as a working model, the current study investigates the detailed mechanism of morin's beneficial action. In hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stressed MDCK cells, there was a considerable rise in intracellular ROS and decreased antioxidant enzyme levels.

RESULTS

Morin has a higher binding affinity for the antioxidant receptor; according to in silico study using molecular docking and ADMET, it is predicted to be an orally active molecule. While morin administration increased SOD and CAT activity in oxidative stress-induced MDCK cells, it also reduced mitochondrial oxidative stress and apoptosis. Furthermore, the present study discovered the molecular mechanism through which morin reduced oxidative stress in MDCK cells by upregulating antioxidant enzyme molecules including GST, GPx, and GCS.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that morin reduces H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress, reduces DNA oxidative damage, and prevents the depletion of antioxidant genes in MDCK cells.

Oxidative stress induced antioxidant and neurotoxicity demonstrated in vivo zebrafish embryo or larval model and their normalization due to morin showing therapeutic implications

AIMS

The study examined that morin as possible antioxidant and neuroprotective due to oxidative stress (H₂O₂) in zebrafish larval model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Zebrafish larvae were induced with oxidative stress using H₂O₂ at 1 mM; their behavioural changes were assessed through partition preference and horizontal compartment test. The head section without eyes and yolk sac of zebrafish larvae were employed for enzyme assays such as SOD, CAT, Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase activity, glutathione S transferase, Acetylcholinesterase activity and nitrate levels. Also, intracellular ROS and apoptosis in larval head was detected by DCFDA and acridine orange staining followed by gene expression studies.

KEY FINDINGS

Morin exposure was not harmful to the larvae at concentration between 20 and 60 μM, but it caused non-lethal deformity between 80 and 100 μM. In the partition test, zebrafish embryos treated with H₂O₂ showed cognitive impairment, whereas the morin-treated groups showed an improved behavioural activity. The study also found that restoring antioxidant enzymes and reduced lipid peroxidation which had a neuroprotective impact. Inhibition of NO overproduction and increased AChE activity were also shown to reduce the neuronal damage. Apoptosis and intracellular ROS levels were reduced in larvae when it was co-incubated with morin. Morin treatment up regulated the antioxidant enzymes against oxidative stress.

SIGNIFICANCE

Morin provides protection against H₂O₂ induced oxidative stress through a cellular antioxidant defence mechanism by up-regulating gene expression, thus increasing the antioxidant activity at cellular or organismal stage.

Recent Trends in Drug Design and Discovery

INTRODUCTION

Structure-based drug design is a wide area of identification of selective inhibitors of a target of interest. From the time of the availability of three dimensional structure of the drug targets, mostly the proteins, many computational methods had emerged to address the challenges associated with drug design process. Particularly, drug-likeness, druggability of the target protein, specificity, off-target binding, etc., are the important factors to determine the efficacy of new chemical inhibitors.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present research was to improve the drug design strategies in field of design of novel inhibitors with respect to specific target protein in disease pathology. Recent statistical machine learning methods applied for structural and chemical data analysis had been elaborated in current drug design field.

METHODS

As the size of the biological data shows a continuous growth, new computational algorithms and analytical methods are being developed with different objectives. It covers a wide area, from protein structure prediction to drug toxicity prediction. Moreover, the computational methods are available to analyze the structural data of varying types and sizes of which, most of the semi-empirical force field and quantum mechanics based molecular modeling methods showed a proven accuracy towards analysing small structural data sets while statistics based methods such as machine learning, QSAR and other specific data analytics methods are robust for large scale data analysis.

RESULTS

In this present study, the background has been reviewed for new drug lead development with respect specific drug targets of interest. Overall approach of both the extreme methods were also used to demonstrate with the plausible outcome.

CONCLUSION

In this chapter, we focus on the recent developments in the structure-based drug design using advanced molecular modeling techniques in conjunction with machine learning and other data analytics methods. Natural products based drug discovery is also discussed.

Transition metal ion-doped In2O3 nanocubes: investigation of their photocatalytic degradation activity under sunlight

The objective of this work was to study the effect of transition metal ion doping (1 wt% of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) in indium oxide (In₂O₃) on its photocatalytic activity to degrade organic dyes, which are considered potential environment pollutants. The transition metal ion-doped In₂O₃ nanocube photocatalyst was prepared via the hydrothermal method. After understanding the thermal behavior of the as-prepared sample (In(OH)₃), it was calcined at 400 °C for 3 h to obtain In₂O₃. The In₂O₃ was systematically investigated via FESEM, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and UV-vis absorption analysis. Microstructure analysis by FESEM showed that the In₂O₃ was formed as nanocubes. These nanocubes were formed in a single phase with a cubic crystal structure, while their crystallite size increased from 11 nm to 19 nm when doped with 1 wt% of transition metals, including Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Cu. The band gap energy for pure In₂O₃ was determined to be 3 eV, and that for the metal ion-doped In₂O₃ showed a slight decrease to the lowest value of 2.94 eV. The photoluminescence (PL) decay lifetime was found to be in the range of 28.56 ns to 33.89 ns. Photocatalytic experiments were conducted for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under sunlight irradiation in the presence of the In₂O₃ nanocubes. Among the five metal ion-doped samples, the Ni ion-doped In₂O₃ photocatalyst exhibited the highest degradation efficiency of 98% in 270 min of sunlight exposure. The high performance of Ni-In₂O₃ is due to its highest PL lifetime of 33.89 ns. The complete route for the degradation of MB dye was revealed by identifying the intermediates.

Defense involvement of piscidin from striped murrel Channa striatus and its peptides CsRG12 and CsLC11 involvement in an antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity

In this study, we have evaluated bioinformatics characterization and antimicrobial role of two piscidin (Pi) peptide identified from the established transcriptome of striped murrel Channa striatus (Cs). The identified CsPi cDNA contains 256 nucleotides encode a protein with 70 amino acids in length which has two antimicrobial peptides and named CsRG12 and CsLC11. The gene expression analysis with various immune stimulants indicated an induced expression pattern of CsPi. Antibiogram showed that CsRG12 and CsLC11 was active against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 33592, a major multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogen and Bacillus cereus ATCC 2106. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and antibiofilm assays were conducted to observe the activity of pathogenic bacteria with these derived antimicrobial peptides. Flow cytometry analysis noticed that the CsRG12 and CsLC11 disrupt the membrane formation of S. aureus and B. cereus, which was further assured by scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images that bleb formation leads to disruption around the bacterial membrane. Overall, it is reported that CsPi is involved in innate immunity as the gene expression plays a remarkable role in up and down regulation during infection. In addition, the involvement of peptides in antibiofilm formation and bacterial membrane disruption support its immune character. This study leads to a possibility for the development of therapeutics in aquaculture biotechnology.

Separation and identification of bioactive peptides from stem of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers

Enzyme hydrolysates (trypsin, papain, pepsin, α-chymotrypsin, and pepsin-pancreatin) of Tinospora cordifolia stem proteins were analyzed for antioxidant efficacy by measuring (1) 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH^•) radical scavenging activity, (2) 2,20-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS⁺) radical scavenging capacity, and (3) Fe²⁺ chelation. Trypsin hydrolysate showed the strongest DPPH^• scavenging, while α-chymotrypsin hydrolysate exhibited the highest ABTS⁺ scavenging and Fe²⁺ chelation. Undigested protein strongly inhibited the gastrointestinal enzymes, trypsin (50% inhibition at enzyme/substrate ratio = 1:6.9) and α-chymotrypsin (50% inhibition at enzyme/substrate ratio = 1:1.82), indicating the prolonged antioxidant effect after ingestion. Furthermore, gel filtration purified peptide fractions of papain hydrolysates exhibited a significantly higher ABTS⁺ and superoxide radical scavenging as compared to non-purified digests. Active fraction 9 showing the highest radical scavenging ability was further purified and confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS followed by MS/MS with probable dominant peptide sequences identified are VLYSTPVKMWEPGR, VITVVATAGSETMR, and HIGININSR. The obtained results revealed that free radical scavenging capacity of papain hydrolysates might be related to its consistently low molecular weight hydrophobic peptides.

Therapeutic effects of gold nanoparticles synthesized using Musa paradisiaca peel extract against multiple antibiotic resistant Enterococcus faecalis biofilms and human lung cancer cells (A549)

Botanical-mediated synthesis of nanomaterials is currently emerging as a cheap and eco-friendly nanotechnology, since it does not involve the use of toxic chemicals. In the present study, we focused on the synthesis of gold nanoparticles using the aqueous peel extract of Musa paradisiaca (MPPE-AuNPs) following a facile and cheap fabrication process. The green synthesized MPPE-AuNPs were bio-physically characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM, Zeta potential analysis and EDX. MPPE-AuNPs were crystalline in nature, spherical to triangular in shape, with particle size ranging within 50 nm. The biofilm inhibition activity of MPPE-AuNPs was higher against multiple antibiotic resistant (MARS) Gram-positive Enterococcus faecalis. Light and confocal laser scanning microscopic observations evidenced that the MPPE-AuNPs effectively inhibited the biofilm of E. faecalis when tested at 100 μg mL^-1. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated that MPPE-AuNPs were effective in inhibiting the viability of human A549 lung cancer cells at higher concentrations of 100 μg mL^-1. The morphological changes in the MPPE-AuNPs treated A549 lung cancer cells were visualized under phase-contrast microscopy. Furthermore, the ecotoxicity of MPPE-AuNPs on the freshwater micro crustacean Ceriodaphnia cornuta were evaluated. Notably, no mortality was recorded in MPPE-AuNPs treated C. cornuta at 250 μg mL^-1. This study concludes that MPPE-AuNPs are non-toxic, eco-friendly and act as a multipurpose potential biomaterial for biomedical applications.

Isolation and identification of a novel fibrinolytic Bacillus tequilensis CWD-67 from dumping soils enriched with poultry wastes

A newly isolated strain, CWD-67, which exhibited high fibrinolytic activity, was screened from dumping soils enriched with poultry wastes. The strain was identified as Bacillus tequilensis (KF897935) by 16Sr RNA gene sequence analysis and biochemical characterization. A fibrinolytic enzyme was purified to homogeneity from the culture supernatant using ammonium sulfate precipitation, membrane concentration, dialysis, ion-exchange, and gel filtration chromatography. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that the purified enzyme was a monomeric protein with an apparent molecular weight of 22 kDa, which is the lowest among Bacillus fibrinolytic enzymes reported to date. The purified enzyme was confirmed to have fibrinolytic activity by a fibrin zymogram. The optimal pH and temperature values of the enzyme were 8.0 and 45 °C, respectively. The enzyme was completely inhibited by PMSF and significantly inhibited by EDTA, TPCK, Co(2+), Zn(2+), and Cu(2+), suggesting a chymotrypsin-like serine metalloprotease. In vitro assays revealed that the purified enzyme could catalyze fibrin lysis effectively, indicating that this enzyme could be a useful fibrinolytic agent.

Bio-Inspired Green Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Mechanism, and Antibacterial Application

In the recent years, noble nanoparticles have attracted and emerged in the field of biology, medicine and electronics due to their incredible applications. There were several methods have been used for synthesis of nanoparticles such as toxic chemicals and high energy physical procedures. To overcome these, biological method has been used for the synthesis of various metal nanoparticles. Among the nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have received much attention in various fields, such as antimicrobial activity, therapeutics, bio-molecular detection, silver nanocoated medical devices and optical receptor. Moreover, the biological approach, in particular the usage of natural organisms has offered a reliable, simple, nontoxic and environmental friendly method. Hence, the current article is focused on the biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their application in the biomedical field.