Aloperine Protects Against Cisplatin-Induced Injury in Kidney Cells Via Modulating PI3K/AKT/Nfκb-Mediated NLRP3 Inflammasome
Qiu M, Zhang S, Liang J, Wang X and Liu J
Aloperine (ALO) is a vital alkaloid present in the traditional Chinese herb Sophora alopecuroides, which has demonstrated effective anti-inflammatory activity. However, the effects and the mechanism of action of ALO on cisplatin (CDDP)-induced nephrotoxicity remain unclear.
Deprotection Bases as an Alternative to the Traditional Bases Used in Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis
Brasil MCOA, Princival CR, Kuchenbecker V, Katekawa E, Magalhães WV and Cilli EM
Background: The use of peptides in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries is attracting increasing attention. Most of the peptides currently marketed are obtained by chemical processes, most frequently solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS).
Objective: Although SPPS is efficient, it requires hazardous solvents, such as N,Ndimethylformamide, dichloromethane, and N-methylpyrrolidone, as well as the bases piperidine and 4-methylpiperidine in the deprotection step. This study presents two alternative reagents, 2- aminoethanol and 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, for the removal of the fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl protecting group used in SPPS.
Methods: The traditional and alternative green SPPS using Fmoc protocol were employed.
Results: The use of these reagents in SPPS afforded two peptides in high yield in an environmentally sustainable solvent.
Conclusion: The reagents are thus promising alternatives to piperidine derivatives, particularly 2- amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, in SPPS.
Evaluation of the Anti-Liver Cancer Activity of Protein Fractions Isolated from Adenium obesum Leaf Extract
Hajinourmohammadi A, Zargan J, Jafary H and Ebrahimi F
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death. Plantderived therapeutics have played a significant role in preventing and treating many diseases, including cancers. The present study investigated the anticancer properties of protein fractions from the green leaf extract of Adenium obesum (A. obesum) in the laboratory.
Holographic Proteomics: A Review of Digital Holographic Microscopy Applications in Spatial Proteomics
Zhu F, Wang Q, Zheng X, Chen R, Liu C, Xiang L, He J and Dai Y
Holoproteomics is a state-of-the-art advancement in spatial proteomics, enabling comprehensive spatial analysis of proteins in tissue microenvironments by combining Digital Holographic Microscopy (DHM) imaging and high-precision laser capture microdissection (LCM) techniques. DHM is an advanced technology that utilizes optical interference principles for non-invasive imaging, providing high-resolution three-dimensional visualization of cells and macromolecules without requiring markers. In proteomics, DHM provides crucial technical support for investigating protein interactions and enables high-precision tracking and analysis of dynamic protein changes. In this review, we systematically survey peer-reviewed literature published in the past five years, with a focus on experimental and clinical studies applying DHM to proteomic analyses. Based on the significant advantages of this technology, we introduce the concept of "Holographic proteomics" as an emerging research field with promising future directions.
PLEKHG7 Expression: A Biomarker for Prognosis and Targeted Therapy in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Lyu G and Li D
Pleckstrin homology and RhoGEF domain-containing G7 (PLEKHG7) is a largely uncharacterized gene whose role in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remains unexplored. Thus, we aimed to profile PLEKHG7 expression, assess its prognostic value, and explore therapeutic implications.
Improving Acid-Base Pair Concentration in Wash/Elution Buffer Eliminates Elution Peak-Shouldering in Cation Exchange Chromatography
Huang F and Liu N
Peak-shouldering elution behavior was a common and unexpected result in bind-and-elute mode Cation Exchange Chromatography (CEX), which may be due to the pH transition during the elution step and the aggregation tendency of target proteins.
Nickel Binding to the c-Src SH3 Domain Facilitates Crystallization
Calicdan X, Fisher OS, Ha BH, Boggon TJ and Stiegler AL
Numerous X-ray crystal structures of the c-Src SH3 domain have provided a large sampling of atomic-level information for this important signaling domain. Multiple crystal forms have been reported, with variable crystal lattice contacts and chemical crystallization conditions.
Role of 5-Hydroxydecanoate in the Neuroprotective Activity of Diosmetin Against Rotenone-Induced Dopaminergic Toxicity in Rats
Varshney KK, Gupta JK and Srivastava R
The present study aims to compare the monotherapy of diosmetin and 5- hydroxydecanoate (5-HD) against the therapeutic effect of their combination therapy in the unilaterally injected rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in the male rats. Motor deficits accompany Parkinson's Disease (PD), while Bioflavonoids like diosmetin, which are antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, protect against neurotoxins. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to PD. The mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channel [mito(KATP)] regulates reactive species and 5-HD, meaning decreasing it may lessen mitochondrial injury. To evaluate the effect of diosmetin, alone and in combination with 5-HD, on Oxidative Stress (OS) markers, mitochondrial function, and dopaminergic preservation in the SNpc.
Customizing Proteins: Reassigning Functionality of Proteins via Incorporation of Unnatural Amino Acids
Jayawant M, Kayalvizhi N, Krishnan M, Wilson SA and Kumar NR
The natural horizon of the genetic code has expanded to incorporate amino acids, such as selenocysteine and pyrrolysine. Researchers have incorporated unnatural amino acids (UAAs) into target proteins, demonstrating increased protein functionality depending on their choice and target. The primary challenge in protein engineering is identifying novel antimicrobial short peptides effective against ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.), which are categorized as multidrug-resistant (MDR). UAAs can be preferentially incorporated into short peptides to display therapeutic activity, potentially leading to next-generation targeted therapeutics. In purview of this, we have curated and summarized the applicability of genetic incorporations of UAAs in antimicrobial short peptides with a special emphasis on the importance of green synthesis. The approach affirmed a reduction in the toxicity of peptide drugs, making it biocompatible. This is an efficient protocol to develop novel antimicrobial short peptides catering to precision medications, particularly against MDR pathogens, as a sustainable pharmaceutical approach.
Role of TPD52 in Endometrial Cancer: Impact on EMT and the PI3K/AKT and ERK/MAPK Signaling
Miao L, Chen B, Li L, Ma B, Yang G and Jing L
Endometrial carcinoma (EC) incidence and mortality continue to rise, and reliable therapeutic targets remain scarce. We aimed to define the oncogenic role and mechanism of tumor protein D52 (TPD52) in EC, focusing on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the PI3K/AKT and ERK/MAPK signaling pathways.
Shepherin II Gene Synthesis and Peptide Characterization: E. coli Expression, Purification, and Antiviral Activity
Abd Elfattah A, Samir S, Okasha H, Atef AA and Taha A
The shepherin II peptide is characterized by a histidine/glycine-rich sequence. This study aimed to design, express recombinantly, and evaluate the antiviral activity of shepherin II against hepatitis A virus (HAV).
A Preliminary Study on the Antibacterial Activity of the Secretion of the Levantine Water Frog, Pelophylax bedriagae (Camerano, 1882) (Anura:Ranidae)
Atçi N, Tanriverdio E and Ayaz D
The skin of amphibians performs some vital roles, such as camouflage, ion and water transport, and gas exchange. Additionally, it plays a significant role in the immune system by preventing pathogen invasion. The secretions produced by the granular glands in the skin possess antimicrobial properties, which help prevent harmful microorganisms from entering the animal's body. The study aims to determine the total protein amounts in the secretion of Pelophylax bedriagae (Levant water frog) distributed in Türkiye and to reveal whether it has antimicrobial properties. In this context, it is a pioneering study on antimicrobial peptides in the skin secretion of Pelophylax.
Cloning, Expression, Purification, and Characterization of Superoxide Dismutase from the Soil Metagenome
Nancy , Lakhawat SS, Kumar R and Sharma PK
Superoxide Dismutases (SODs) are enzymes that catalyze the conversion of toxic free radicals generated during stress conditions into nontoxic forms. Thus, the enzyme superoxide dismutase contributes to the adaptation and survival of microorganisms across a variety of environmental conditions, making it an indispensable enzyme during the response to stress. In this study, we embarked upon investigating and characterizing a Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) from DNA extracted directly from garden soil, where the average temperature ranges from 4°C- 45°C.
Precision Enzyme: Targeted Drug Discovery in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Paul S, Tiwari P and Dubey S
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS are characterized by progressive neuronal dysfunction with limited therapeutic options. Recent advances in molecular biology and drug development have highlighted the therapeutic promise of precision enzyme targeting, offering novel strategies for disease modulation and symptom management.
Essential Role of Non-Conserved α4-His178 in Stabilizing the α4-α5 Hairpin and Biotoxicity of the Cry4Aa Mosquitocidal Protein
Imtong C, Bourchookarn W, Bourchookarn A, Sakdee S, Li HC and Angsuthanasombat C
Bacillus thuringiensis Cry toxins are well known for their insecticidal properties, primarily through the formation of ion-leakage pores via α4-α5 hairpins. His178 in helix 4 of the Cry4Aa mosquito-active toxin has been suggested to play a crucial role in its biotoxicity.
Mevalonate Metabolic Reprogramming Drives Cisplatin Resistance in Bladder Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targeting
Fang Q, You C, Xiao X, Liu Y, Yang W, Li Q, Qing L and Dong Z
Dysregulation of mevalonate metabolism is a hallmark of tumorigenesis and therapy resistance across malignancies, though its role in bladder cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate its impact on prognosis and cisplatin chemosensitivity in bladder cancer.
Effective Plant-Derived Proteins and Peptides in Leukemia Treatment
Moghaddasi Z, Bolhassani A and Agi E
Leukemia is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide that causes the unusual evolution of hematopoietic stem cells. The type of leukemia determines the optimal treatment plan and the patient's survival. However, finding safer and more effective medications and developing novel therapeutic strategies are still the most challenging research topics. Nowadays, over half of the medications used to treat cancer are derived from natural ingredients. Medicinal plants are a reliable natural source of anti-leukemic medications. Plant-derived biologically active compounds, including secondary metabolites, have long been considered extremely valuable for treating various human illnesses. However, the limitations of secondary metabolites have led scientists to seek alternative biologically active compounds. Plant-derived proteins and peptides have recently been explored as potential treatments for various human ailments, showing anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-HIV, anti-cancer, ribosome-inactivating, and neuromodulatory properties. Until now, no review article has documented the biologically active proteins and peptides against leukemia. This review article explores the therapeutic properties of plant-derived proteins and peptides against leukemia.
Evaluation of the Cardioprotective Potential of Syzygium aromaticum in High-Glucose and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide-Induced In-Vitro Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Singhal S, Gupta J, Kushwaha PP and Rani V
Diabetic hyperglycemia is often associated with elevated levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiota-derived metabolite that was recently identified as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The combined presence of hyperglycemia and TMAO can aggravate cardiac dysfunction in diabetic patients. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of the methanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum against the toxic effects induced by TMAO and hyperglycemia in cultured rat cardiomyocytes.
Recombinant Proteins: Evolution to their Therapeutic Potential
Thombre KR, Gupta KR, Masne TP and Umekar MJ
Recombinant proteins, which are produced using recombinant DNA technology, have transformed the domains of biotechnology and biomedicine by allowing the production of proteins that are often expensive or difficult to obtain from natural sources. More than 130 recombinant proteins are currently in clinical use by the US FDA, demonstrating the importance of these proteins in both research and therapeutic applications. Bacterial, yeast, mammalian cell cultures, and hybridoma technology are examples of recombinant protein production systems that have enabled the large-scale production of therapeutic proteins, including monoclonal antibodies, which are now essential tools in disease treatment. From their origins with human insulin in the 1980s to the most recent developments in third-generation proteins, this brief review examines the development of recombinant protein therapies. The first generation concentrated on natural structures; the second generation focused on enhancing safety, pharmacokinetics, and specificity; and the third generation is ready to present innovative formulations and delivery systems. This review also covers the use of recombinant proteins in cancer treatment, different protein production systems, and design techniques that keep improving the safety and effectiveness profiles of protein therapies.
F18 Promiscuous Epitope of Acr1 Protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Induces the Secretion of IL-10 and Tregs But Not IL-6
Lamba T, Prajapati S, Chowdhury A, Bandyopadhyay A and Agrewala JN
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a Gram-positive bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). It remains viable for extended periods within host macrophages by entering a dormant state. Alpha crystallin 1 (Acr1) is a 16 kDa protein of Mtb and is reported to be highly upregulated in latent TB. Acr1 suppresses the host's immune system by impairing the differentiation and maturation of dendritic cells and macrophages. We hypothesize that Mtb judiciously utilizes its Acr1 protein to paralyse the immune system of the host by inducing the release of IL-10 and generating an immunosuppressive environment.
Evaluation of Anti-cancer Potential of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra)
Gakhar M, Singh L, Routh S, Mukhopadhaya A and Singh DD
Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) from the Malvaceae family is widely used in culinary applications and is reported to have many potential therapeutic effects attributed to the compounds isolated from it. In this work, we set out to explore its seed proteome for the isolation of lectins and characterize them Method: A protein of about 21kDa was isolated and purified using chromatography techniques from the ammonium sulphate crude protein extract. It was evaluated for hemagglutination activity on rabbit erythrocyte suspension, trypsin inhibitory activity using chemical assay, and evaluation of anti-cancer activity using cell lines. Mass and transcriptome analysis were done to deduce the complete sequence of the isolated protein.