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Microorganisms with biocontrol capabilities against plant pathogens are considered as one of the most promising approaches for healthy crop management. In this study, ethyl acetate extracts of 25 Bacillus strains were investigated for their antagonistic effect on Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xcc), which causes the citrus bacterial canker (CBC) disease. Among them, 21 strains exerted antibacterial activity against wild-type Xcc strains. Based on the strength of the antibacterial activity, nine Bacillus strains were selected for 16S rRNA analysis. 16S rRNA sequence homology revealed that several strains were closely related to B. velezensis , where strains with no antibacterial activity grouped as the soil-associated community of B. amyloliquefaciens. B. velezensis Bv-21 exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against wild type and streptomycin resistant Xcc with inhibition zones of 22.91 ± 0.45 and 20.28 ± 0.53, respectively. Furthermore, B. velezensis Bv-21 strain was tested for biocontrol activity against a streptomycin-resistant Xcc M4 in detached susceptible citrus leaves. The strain reduced the incidence of CBC by 26.30% and pathogen density of Xcc M4 by 81.68% over control. The results of the study strongly suggest that B. velezensis can be used as an effective and eco-friendly biocontrol agent either by itself or as an active compound, against both, the wild-type and streptomycin-resistant Xcc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Raf family of serine/threonine kinases are essential components in many receptor tyrosine kinase-mediated signal transduction pathways. Here, we analyze the function of D-raf in the Torso (Tor) pathway required to specify cellular fates at the embryonic poles. Using mutant embryos lacking endogenous D-raf protein, we show that D-raf's serine/threonine kinase activity is essential for its role in Tot signal transduction and that human Raf-1 will substitute for D-raf in this pathway. After Tot activation, D-tar becomes hyperphosphorylated. We identified two putative serine phosphorylation sites (S388 and S743) in SF9 cells and demonstrate that S743 or its phosphorylation is essential for D-raf function in embryos. Alanine substitution at S388, N-terminal truncation, or targeted membrane association permits transmission of the Torso signal by D-raf, but these D-raf molecules differ in their rescuing potential and relative biological activity. Membrane-targeted [D-raf.sup.tor4021] showed the highest level of activity, followed by alanine-substituted [D-raf.sup.S388A] and N-terminal-truncated [D-raf.sup.[Delta]445]. Since the activity profiles for these altered forms of D-raf are distinct, these findings indicate that each structural modification differentially affects the regulation and/or propagation of the Tor signal by these mutant D-tar proteins.

The stored cowpea bug Callosobruchus maculates F. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) is a significant pest. The present study involves the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with the assistance of Cissus quadrangularis stem and their efficacy in controlling C. maculatus , a species of beetle belonging to the family Bruchidae. The confirmation of nanoparticle formation was achieved via UV–visible spectroscopy, while the physical and chemical properties were analysed through the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Zetasizer measurement of the average particle size of AgNPs synthesized using C. quadrangularis stem extract. The morphology of the nanoparticles was predominantly spherical and elliptical, and their range size was determined from 9.23 nm to 19.23 nm through analysis of the TEM images. Aggregates and clusters of particles are generated. The efficacy of C. quadrangularis stem water extract, silver nitrate (AgNO 3), and synthesized AgNPs as insecticides against C. maculates was evaluated. The evaluation of the pesticidal effect was conducted through the implementation of antifeedant and filter paper-impregnated methodologies. The study revealed that the efficacy of C. quadrangularis silver nanoparticles (Cq -AgNPs) surpassed that of C. quadrangularis aqueous extract. The aqueous extract exhibited an LC 50 value of 5.22 mg/L, while the synthesized Cq -AgNPs demonstrated an LC 50 value of 1.87 mg/L. The antifeedant method was utilized to determine the LC 50 readings of the aqueous extract, and synthesized Cq -AgNPs, which were found to be 4.01 mg/L, and 1.51 mg/L, respectively. These results suggest that Ag nanoparticles synthesized by C. quadrangularis may be useful in protecting stored grain pests against C. maculates. [Display omitted] • Cissus quadrangularis stem extract act as reducing and capping agent for production of AgNPs. • The bio-fabricated Cq -AgNPs were analysed by UV, XRD, FTIR, SEM, and TEM. • The Cq -AgNPs major spherical shaped, with an average size of 21.8 ± 2.06 nm. • Cq -AgNPs showed promising antifeedant activity on Callosobruchus maculates. • Cq -AgNPs exhibited promising adulticidal activity on cowpea bug C. maculates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt nanoferrites and their nanocomposites have attracted significant attention because of their numerous applications. This study reports a novel mycosynthesis of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe 2 O 4 NPs) and cobalt ferrite/functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNT) bionanocomposites using the mycelial cell-free filtrate (MCFF) of Aspergillus sojae (KACC 45023). The reaction of A. sojae MCFF with ferric nitrate nonahydrate and cobalt chloride hexahydrate resulted in changing the colorless solution of the MCFF to reddish-brown color and formation of a reddish-brown precipitate, indicating the mycosynthesis of CoFe 2 O 4 NPs. The mycosynthesized CoFe 2 O 4 NPs were biologically anchored onto fMWCNTs using A. sojae MCFF, yielding CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNT bionanocomposites. Physicochemical and morphological properties of the mycosynthesized CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNT bionanocomposites were characterized using X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The mycosynthesized CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNT bionanocomposites showed significant antibacterial potential against three foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Escherichia coli , Salmonella Typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus using an agar-well diffusion assay. The morphological structures of the bacterial cells examined by FESEM revealed changes in the intact bacterial cell structures into misshapen and twisted bacterial cells, as well as deposition of the mycosynthesized CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNT bionanocomposites on the bacterial cells. The present study reveals the high potential of fungi as valuable bionanofactories for the mycosynthesis of ferrite-based NPs and their bionanocomposites as eco-friendly biosynthesis routes. [Display omitted] • sojae MCFF mediated the synthesis of CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNTs. • Structural and morphological analysis of CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNTs. • Antibacterial potency of CoFe 2 O 4 NPs and CoFe 2 O 4 /fMWCNTs toward foodborne bacteria. • Assessment of morphological changes in bacterial cells using FESEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilized lipase has become one of the most important biocatalytic systems used for many industrial purposes, especially in the fuel, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries. Immobilized lipase has advantages of good chemical and thermal stability, in addition to reuse and easy recovery, allowing it to serve as a replacement for chemical catalysts in industrial applications. In this regard, there has been rapidly growing interest in developing new support materials (SMs) and new protocols for lipase immobilization (LI). In this review, various types of SMs used for LI are extensively discussed, with clarification of their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, different methods of LI are explained with a particular emphasis on their respective benefits and drawbacks. The applications of immobilized lipase in producing biodiesel as well as other organic synthesis processes are summarized with a mention of future prospects and directions. • Lipase immobilization is very important process for many biocatalytic purposes. • There is a wide variety of materials used as supports for lipase immobilization. • Immobilized lipase is an effective catalyst used for organic synthesis and biosensing. • Immobilized lipase is successfully employed for biodiesel production and biodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This review summarizes known interactions between cytokines and DUBs. • Some cytokines interact with DUBs to cause or magnify their effects. • Some DUBs are capable of inducing cytokines or their effects. • Interactions between cytokines and DUBs occur in various steps in multiple pathways. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are cysteine protease proteins that reverse the ubiquitination by removing ubiquitins from the target protein. With over 100 DUBs identified and categorized into at least 7 families, many DUBs interact with one or more cytokines, influencing cellular processes, such as antiviral responses, inflammatory responses, apoptosis, etc. While some DUBs influence cytokine pathway or production, some DUBs are cytokine-inducible. In this article, we summarize a list of DUBs, their interaction with cytokines, target proteins and mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic changes on earth affect the soil quality of agricultural lands, especially by increasing salt deposition in soil, which results in soil salinity. Soil salinity is a major challenge to growth and reproduction among glycophytes (including all crop plants). Soil bacteria present in the rhizosphere and/or roots naturally protect plants from the adverse effects of soil salinity by reprogramming the stress-induced physiological changes in plants. Bacteria can enrich the soil with major nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in a form easily available to plants and prevent the transport of excess sodium to roots (exopolysaccharides secreted by bacteria bind with sodium ions) for maintaining ionic balance and water potential in cells. Salinity also affects plant growth regulators and suppresses seed germination and root and shoot growth. Bacterial secretion of indole-3-acetic acid and gibberellins compensates for the salt-induced hormonal decrease in plants, and bacterial 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase synthesis decreases ethylene production to stimulate plant growth. Furthermore, bacteria modulate the redox state of salinity-affected plants by enhancing antioxidants and polyamines, which leads to increased photosynthetic efficiency. Bacteria-induced accumulation of compatible solutes in stressed plants regulates plant cellular activities and prevents salt stress damage. Plant-bacterial interaction reprograms the expression of salt stress-responsive genes and proteins in salinity-affected plants, resulting in a precise stress mitigation metabolism as a defense mechanism. Soil bacteria increase the fertility of soil and regulate the plant functions to prevent the salinity effects in glycophytes. This review explains the current understanding about the physiological changes induced in glycophytes during bacterial interaction to alleviate the adverse effects of soil salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop yield loss caused by phytopathogens has a massive impact on global economy. For over a century, agrochemicals have been used for plant disease management; however, the excessive use of agrochemicals poses a threat to the environment and human health. Nanomaterials have been investigated in various agricultural applications, such as stress tolerance, seed germination, plant disease control, and plant growth enhancement. Nonetheless, the prevalent chemical and physical methods used for nanomaterial synthesis are uneconomical and involve hazardous reagents, which limit their widespread application in agriculture. Biogenic synthesis of nanomaterials provides natural reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents, making it cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient. With the advances in nanobiotechnology, biogenic nanomaterials can substitute agrochemicals and traditional nanoparticles for plant disease management, enabling the development of sustainable agriculture. This review provides an assessment of the recent advances in the diverse roles of biogenic NMs for controlling phytopathogens. In the first part of this review, the benefits and drawbacks of using traditional agrochemicals are highlighted. The next sections critically discuss the use of biogenic nanomaterials for the control of phytopathogens, with a special emphasis on controlling fungal, bacterial, and viral phytopathogens. The pros and cons of the biogenic synthesis of nanomaterials for phytopathogen control are elucidated. The ecological safety and challenging gaps of using biogenic nanomaterials for sustainable agriculture are discussed, highlighting the fate of biogenic nanomaterials in soil-plant ecosystem, with an evaluation of the potential threats to the soil ecosystem. Prospects to overcome the current limitations of biosynthesis and potential applications of biogenic nanomaterials for plant disease control are proposed to achieve sustainable agriculture. The biocidal potential of biogenic nanomaterials can be utilized as biological nano weapons for plant disease control, providing an insightful perspective for future generations. [Display omitted] • Biogenic nanoagroparticles are superior alternatives to conventional agrochemicals for plant disease control. • Potential impacts of biogenic nanomaterials for controlling phytopathogens. • Ecological safety, strengths, and weaknesses of biogenic NMs for sustainable agriculture are elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial nanomaterials provide numerous opportunities for the synthesis of next-generation sustainable water disinfectants. Using the keywords graphene and water disinfection and graphene antibacterial activity, a detailed search of the Scopus database yielded 198 and 1433 studies on using graphene for water disinfection applications and graphene antibacterial activity in the last ten years, respectively. Graphene family nanomaterials (GFNs) have emerged as effective antibacterial agents. The current innovations in graphene-, graphene oxide (GO)-, reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-, and graphene quantum dot (GQD)-based nanocomposites for water disinfection, including their functionalization with semiconductor photocatalysts and metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, have been thoroughly discussed in this review. Furthermore, their novel application in the fabrication of 3D porous hydrogels, thin films, and membranes has been emphasized. The physicochemical and structural properties affecting their antibacterial efficiency, such as sheet size, layer number, shape, edges, smoothness/roughness, arrangement mode, aggregation, dispersibility, and surface functionalization have been highlighted. The various mechanisms involved in GFN antibacterial action have been reviewed, including the mechanisms of membrane stress, ROS-dependent and -independent oxidative stress, cell wrapping/trapping, charge transfer, and interaction with cellular components. For safe applications, the potential biosafety and biocompatibility of GFNs in aquatic environments are emphasized. Finally, the current limitations and future perspectives are discussed. This review may provide ideas for developing efficient and practical solutions using graphene-, GO-, rGO-, and GQD-based nanocomposites in water disinfection by rationally employing their unique properties. [Display omitted] • Graphene-, GO-, rGO, and GQD-derived nanocomposites can act as potential water disinfectants. • Functionalization of GFN surface can significantly affect their efficiency and biocompatibility. • The physicochemical and morphological properties of GFNs influence their bactericidal potential. • Plausible antibacterial mechanisms of GFNs are elucidated. • Regeneration is a critical criterion for determining the economic feasibility of using GFNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The storage qualities of tomatoes were improved by blue light pretreatment. [•] Tomatoes maintained greater firmness with the blue light pretreatment. [•] For short-term storage, mature green tomatoes ripened most quickly in darkness. [•] Blue light pretreatment is an effective beneficial treatment for tomatoes storage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During the past several years, limit of Salmonella infections has been exceeded dramatically. In spite of achieving a low rate infection in Salmonella infections, this microbe has become a challenge in food industry due to its wide-spread distribution worldwide. Salmonella bacteria are not only responsible for mild to severe infections but also they cause life-threatening infections. Salmonella bacteria are zoonotic in nature and hamper the food quality severely as well as being hazardous to human society. Several types of serotypic Salmonella have been reported; however, very less numbers of pathogens are infection responsible. Increase in foodborne infections caused by Salmonella types mainly occurs due to the development of new specific features in Salmonella majority, making them to adapt in any environmental condition. Also the alterations in human society with recent food processing and marketing methodology with live breeders contribute to facilitate these outbreaks. Salmonella resistant to commercial antibiotic drugs has emerged as a great health concern to the consumers. Literature survey has revealed that infection with Salmonella resistant to antibiotics has played a vital role to increased rate in foodborne infectious diseases. Extensive use of antibiotics in food industry against foodborne pathogens or food models has resulted in additional antibiotic resistance to Salmonella which has become a matter of great concern to the public health. There has been an increasing concern worldwide on therapeutic values of natural products. Nature has presented to humanity the gift of vast therapeutic antimicrobial agents of plant origins. There are multitudes of potential useful bioactive substances to be derived from plants. The significance of drugs cannot be over-emphasized with the recent trend of high percentage of resistance of microorganisms to the present day antibiotics. This review provides the informative literature data on antibacterial efficacy of plant essential oils (PEOs) and their volatiles. In addition, the suitability of PEOs and their volatile components for their practical applications in food or food products against Salmonella, a common cause of salmonellosis food poisoning has also been focused. The current knowledge of volatile oils and contents in food model system to control Salmonella has been discussed. Also a brief description on the legal aspects on how to use the volatile oils in food system has been presented, and the area for future research has been proposed. A mode of antibacterial action of PEOs along with their chemical nature has also been described. Although some data on Salmonella-related issues are presented, this review chiefly focused on in vivo practical utilization of plant volatile oils and components in food model-system as natural anti-Salmonella agents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), which occurs in 0.5%–1% of total pregnancies, is usually defined as three or more consecutive spontaneous abortions before 20 weeks of gestation. Although an immunology-based etiology underlying unexplained RPL has been demonstrated, the exact molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood. Recent studies using transcriptomics and proteomics have implicated several factors. Here, we review the key possible mechanisms, in particular immunological abnormalities and thrombophilic aberration, that might underlie RPL. Taken together, these findings provide insight into the development of effective therapeutics for RPL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, we isolated the Dub-2A gene, which encodes a novel murine deubiquitinating enzyme subfamily member, from a bacterial artificial chromosome library clone by PCR amplification with degenerate PCR primers for the Dub-2 cDNA (Back, K.-H., Mondoux, M. A., Jaster, R., Fire-Levin E., and D'Andrea, A. D. (2001) Blood 98, 636-642). In this study, we analyzed two more clones from the library to isolate genes encoding other deubiquitinating enzymes. Dub-1A, which encodes the shortest member of the DUB subfamily of deubiquitinating enzymes so far, has been identified in both clones and characterized. Sequence analysis showed that Dub-1A encodes a 468-amino acid protein that has a molecular mass of ∼51 kDa and that contains a putative catalytic domain (Cys, His, and Asp) conserved among DUB proteins. The amino acid sequence of DUB-1A is 84.5, 84.7, and 85.3% identical to those of DUB-1, DUB-2, and DUB-2A, respectively. Reverse transcription-PCR revealed that Dub-1A is expressed not only in B-lymphocytes in response to interleukin-3 stimulation, but also in T-lymphocytes, brain, heart, liver, lung, kidney, ovary, and spleen. This suggests that Dub-1A may play essential roles in each of these organs. In vivo and in vitro deubiquitinating enzyme assays showed that DUB-1A has functional deubiquitinating activity and that the 5'-flanking sequence of Dub-1A has a functional enhancer domain as shown in Dub-1 and Dub-2A. Interestingly, immunoblot analysis revealed that DUB-1A is polyubiquitinated, indicating that it is degraded through proteasome-mediated degradation. In the absence of JAK2, Dub-1A was expressed at a lower level. This suggests that DUB-1A functions downstream of JAK2 kinase in the interleukin-3 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are harmful to living organisms due to the potential oxidation of membranes, DNA, proteins, and carbohydrates. Freezing injury has been shown to involve the attack of ROS. Antioxidant enzymes can protect plant cells from oxidative stress imposed by freezing injury; therefore, cold acclimation may involve an increase in the expression of antioxidant enzymes. In this study, quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the expression levels of antioxidant enzymes during cold acclimation in near-isogenic lines (NILs) of wheat, differing in the Vrn1-Fr1 chromosome region that conditions winter versus spring wheat growth habit. The antioxidant genes monitored were mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), chloroplastic Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu,ZnSOD), iron superoxide dismutase (FeSOD), catalase (CAT), thylakoid-bound ascorbate peroxidase (t-APX), cytosolic glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), cytosolic mono-dehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR), chloroplastic dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR). The expression levels were upregulated (MnSOD, MDAR, t-APX, DHAR, GPX, and GR), downregulated (CAT), or relatively constant (FeSOD and Cu,ZnSOD). The Vrn1-Fr1 region seemed to have a role in regulating the expression level of some of the antioxidant enzyme genes because t-APX, CAT and MnSOD expressed to significantly higher levels in the winter wheat NIL than the spring wheat NIL after 4 weeks’ cold acclimation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Proteins related to neurodegenerative diseases are regulated by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). • Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) remove ubiquitins from the substrates. • DUBs function as modulators in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. • DUBs regulate toxic proteins inducing neurodegenerative diseases via proteasome signaling, mitophagy, autophagy, and ERAD. • DUB small molecule inhibitors affect the targeted toxic proteins related to neurodegenerative diseases via decomposition mechanism. Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the most common diseases in mankind. Although there are reports of several candidates that cause neurodegenerative diseases, the exact mechanism of pathogenesis is poorly understood. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is an important posttranslational modification for protein degradation and control of homeostasis. Enzymes such as E1, E2, E3 ligases, and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) participating in UPS, regulate disease-inducing proteins by controlling the degree of ubiquitination. Therefore, the development of treatments targeting enzymes for degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is emerging as an attractive perspective. In particular, as DUBs are able to regulate one or more degenerative disease-related proteins, the potential as a therapeutic target is even more evident. DUBs influence the regulation of toxic proteins that cause neurodegenerative diseases by not only their removal, but also by regulating signals associated with mitophagy, autophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD). In this review, we analyze not only the cellular processes of DUBs, which control neurodegenerative disease-inducing proteins, but also their potentials as a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bimetallic oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have gained the interest of researchers owing to the synergistic mechanism of action by the elements present. Mycosynthesis of nanostructures is a promising, facile, and an environmentally friendly approach. In the present study, CuO/TiO 2 NPs were produced using the cell-free filtrate of the endophytic fungus Trichoderma virens. The reaction of the fungal filtrate with the two metal salts, CuSO 4.5H 2 O and TiO 2 , resulted in the mycosynthesis of the CuO/TiO 2 NPs. The prepared bimetal oxide NPs were characterized using XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, EDX, DLS, zeta potential analysis, XPS, Raman scattering, FESEM, and HRTEM. The mycosynthesized CuO/TiO 2 NPs exhibited diffraction peaks characteristic of the monoclinic CuO and tetragonal rutile TiO 2 crystal planes. Homogeneity and stability were observed as a result of the biological moieties present in the fungal filtrate, which capped the CuO/TiO 2 NPs. The prepared CuO/TiO 2 NPs were distributed as flake/plate-like and quasi-spherical/nanorod CuO and TiO 2 NPs, respectively. A broad-spectrum antibacterial effect was recorded, with zones of inhibition as follows: foodborne pathogens Escherichia coli (14.34 mm), Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (11.32 mm), and Staphylococcus aureus (9.63 mm); and phytopathogenic bacteria involving Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (Cmm , 12.16 mm), C. michiganensis subsp. capsici (Cmc , 11.26 mm), wild type and streptomycin-resistant Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc , 11.06 and 12.37 mm, respectively), and wild type and streptomycin-resistant Xanthomonas citri pv citri (Xcc , 12.48 and 12.69 mm, respectively). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the CuO/TiO 2 NPs were determined using the broth microdilution assay. NP-treated bacterial cells at sub-MICs had rough surfaces with membrane defects and exhibited shrinkage, reduction of cell edges, cracks, and fractures on their surfaces. This study provides insights into the potential of the mycosynthesized CuO/TiO 2 NPs as alternative nano-antimicrobial agents, which could be employed for future biomedical, agricultural, and pharmaceutical applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen that causes life-threatening and persistent infections in immunocompromised patients. It is the culprit behind a variety of hospital-acquired infections owing to its multiple tolerance mechanisms against antibiotics and disinfectants. Biofilms are sessile microbial aggregates that are formed as a result of the cooperation and competition between microbial cells encased in a self-produced matrix comprised of extracellular polymeric constituents that trigger surface adhesion and microbial aggregation. Bacteria in biofilms exhibit unique features that are quite different from planktonic bacteria, such as high resistance to antibacterial agents and host immunity. Biofilms of P. aeruginosa are difficult to eradicate due to intrinsic, acquired, and adaptive resistance mechanisms. Consequently, innovative approaches to combat biofilms are the focus of the current research. Nanocomposites, composed of two or more different types of nanoparticles, have diverse therapeutic applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties. They are emerging multifunctional nanoformulations that combine the desired features of the different elements to obtain the highest functionality. This review assesses the recent advances of nanocomposites, including metal-, metal oxide-, polymer-, carbon-, hydrogel/cryogel-, and metal organic framework-based nanocomposites for the eradication of P. aeruginosa biofilms. The characteristics and virulence mechanisms of P. aeruginosa biofilms, as well as their devastating impact and economic burden are discussed. Future research addressing the potential use of nanocomposites as innovative anti-biofilm agents is emphasized. Utilization of nanocomposites safely and effectively should be further strengthened to confirm the safety aspects of their application. [Display omitted] • P. aeruginosa has multiple antibiotic resistance mechanisms. • The anti-biofilm activities of metal-, metal oxide-, carbon-, polymer-, hydrogel/cryogel-, and MOF-based nanocomposites against P. aeruginosa biofilms are discussed. • Chemical composition, size, surface charge, and nanoarchitecture influence the anti-biofilm activity of nanocomposites. • Presence of sharp edges, spikes, pillars, or protrusions on the surface of nanocomposites enables piercing and rupturing of biofilms. • Nanocomposites are promising anti-biofilm agents against P. aeruginosa biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new biocatalytic systems to replace the chemical catalysts, with suitable characteristics in terms of efficiency, stability under high temperature reactions and in the presence of organic solvents, reusability, and eco-friendliness is considered a very important step to move towards the green processes. From this basis, the use of lipase as a catalyst is highly desired for many industrial applications because it offers the reactions in which could be used, stability in harsh conditions, reusability and a greener process. Therefore, the introduction of temperature-resistant and solvent-tolerant lipases have become essential and ideal for industrial applications. Temperature-resistant and solvent-tolerant lipases have been involved in many large-scale applications including biodiesel, detergent, food, pharmaceutical, organic synthesis, biosensing, pulp and paper, textile, animal feed, cosmetics, and leather industry. So, the present review provides a comprehensive overview of the industrial use of lipase. Moreover, special interest in biotechnological and biochemical techniques for enhancing temperature-resistance and solvent-tolerance of lipases to be suitable for the industrial uses. [Display omitted] • TR and ST lipases gain a remarkable interest for industrial applications. • There are some features distinguishing TR and ST lipases. • DNA recombination techniques are commonly used to enhance the lipase productivity. • Protein engineering approaches are ordinarily applied to increase the lipase stability. • Immobilization of lipase also used to improve the lipase stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inter-α-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 (ITI-H4) is one of the acute phase proteins and is mainly related with inflammatory diseases such as bacterial bloodstream infection and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). In a previous study, ITI-H4 was reported to be cleaved by kallikrein B1 (KLKB1) and its cleaved form induces the imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, in this study, putative substrates of ITI-H4 were isolated by immunoprecipitation and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS) analysis. Of those, phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) was found to be a binding protein of ITI-H4. PGK1 increases the level of ITI-H4 expression and blocks the cleavage of ITI-H4 mediated by KLKB1. It also inhibits pro-inflammatory response by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, PGK1, a novel binding partner of ITI-H4, is expected to have cellular functions in the pathogenesis of ITI-H4-related inflammatory diseases. [Display omitted] • PGK1 is a novel binding partner of ITI-H4. • PGK1 increases the protein level of ITI-H4 and blocks the cleavage of ITI-H4 by KLKB1. • KLKB1 and PGK1 competitively bind to ITI-H4. • Threonine phosphorylation of ITI-H4 is regulated by PGK1. • PGK1 modulates pro- and anti-inflammatory response via the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), a class of cysteine proteases which counteract the action of protein ubiquitination, hydrolyze ubiquitin from its specific targeted proteins. Approximately, 100 DUBs have been found from yeast to human, and they can be classified into at least 5 families based on their structures and functions. Most DUBs are involved in regulation of intracellular processes including cell cycle progression, apoptosis, immunity, reproduction, and target gene transcription. Recently, much progress has been made in understanding the physiological functions of cytokine-inducible DUBs such as DUB-1, DUB-2, and DUB-3/USP17, in regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis in lymphocytes. Here, we have summarized the structure and functions of cytokine-inducible DUBs and their biological functions in regulating several interleukin-associated signaling pathways. Finally, we emphasize the importance of small molecules for cytokine-inducible DUBs for developing promising drug therapeutics for immune-related disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present investigation reports on the chemical composition of Cudrania tricuspidata fruit essential oil (CTEO) and examines its possible antimicrobial mode of action against food-borne pathogenic bacteria. The CTEO was obtained by hydrodistillation of C. tricuspidata fruits using a microwave-assisted extraction technique. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the CTEO resulted in the determination of 29 different compounds, representing 94.46% of the total oil. The CTEO (1000 μg/disc) showed potential antibacterial effect as diameters of inhibition zones (15.0 ± 0.1–21.0 ± 1.0 mm) against the tested food-borne pathogenic bacteria including Bacillus cereus ATCC 13061, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 12600, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 43174 and Escherichia coli O157:H7 ATCC 43889. The minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum bactericidal (MBC) concentration values of CTEO against the tested bacteria were found in the range of 250–1000 μg/mL, respectively. Also the CTEO had potential inhibitory effect on the cell viability of the tested pathogens at MIC concentration. The SEM analysis showed the inhibitory effect of CTEO as confirmed by considerable morphological alterations on the cell wall B. cereus ATCC 13061 and E. coli O157:H7 ATCC 43889. In addition, the CTEO revealed its mode of action on membrane integrity as confirmed by release of extracellular ATP, loss of 260-nm absorbing materials and leakage of potassium ions against food-borne pathogenic bacteria. These findings suggest that CTEO showed a broad-spectrum of antibacterial efficacy and compromise its mode of action on membrane integrity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ran-binding protein microtubule-organizing center (RanBPM) appears to function as a scaffolding protein in several signal transduction pathways. RanBPM is a crucial component of multiprotein complexes that regulate the cellular function by modulating and/or assembling with a wide range of proteins in different intracellular regions and thereby mediate diverse cellular functions. This suggests a role for RanBPM as a scaffolding protein. In this article, we have summarized the diverse functions of RanBPM and its interacting partners that have been investigated to date. Also, we have categorized the role of RanBPM into four divisions: RanBPM as a modulator/protein stabilizer, regulator of transcription activity, cell cycle and neurological functions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common gynecological endocrine disease, involving multiple genes, multiple pathways, and complex hormone secretion processes. Hence, the pathogenesis of PCOS cannot be explained by a single factor. Omics analysis includes genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, which are fast and effective methods for studying the pathogenesis of diseases. PCOS is primarily characterized by androgen excess, and reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions. The application of omics analysis in the body fluids, blood, cells or tissues of women with PCOS offers the potential for unexpected molecular advantages in explaining new mechanisms of PCOS etiology and pathophysiology, and provides new perspectives for identifying potential biomarkers and developing new therapeutic targets. At present, several omics analyses have been applied to produce complex datasets. In this manuscript, the recent advances in omics research on PCOS are summarized, aiming at an important and parallel review of the newly published research. [Display omitted] • Various SNPs play critical roles in the pathogenesis of PCOS. • Abnormal expression of microRNAs and lnc-RNAs may lead to dysfunctional GCs. • Potential biomarkers for PCOS are identified by proteomics analysis. • The pathogenesis of PCOS is explained through several signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Phyto-synthesis of quantum dots (QDs) is a promising and multidisciplinary domain. • Biovalorization aims at transforming biowastes into valuable products. • Green fabricated metal QDs and carbon dots (CDs) are multifunctional particles. • Phytochemicals play the key role during the phyto-synthesis of metal QDs and CDs. • Cytotoxicity and biosafety of the phyto-synthesized metal QDs and CDs are discussed. Quantum dots (QDs) are promising nanoscale materials with sizes ranging from 1 to 10 nm, and have exponentially triggered scientific interest worldwide during the past decade. They exhibit size-tunable optical features, zero-dimensional structures, and quantum confinement effects. Moreover, they can be tailored to suit various applications. Phyto-synthesis of fluorescent metal chalcogenide QDs and carbon dots (CDs) is a green, feasible, low-cost, and environmentally safe approach to overcome the limitations of chemical and physical synthesis techniques. Different plant extracts provide several phytochemical constituents with numerous functional moieties for natural capping and stabilization of the synthesized metal chalcogenide QDs and CDs. Therefore, the green synthesis of metal chalcogenide QDs and CDs, their optical and structural properties, and applications such as diagnostics, biosensing, heavy metal detection, and photocatalytic degradation are comprehensively summarized in this review. Furthermore, the biovalorization of agricultural wastes, such as fruit and vegetable peels, is addressed to produce high-value metal chalcogenide QDs and CDs. In addition, the toxicity issues associated with these particles are described for the safe usage of QDs. Challenges that restrict the widespread application of QD particles are discussed along with future perspectives for their commercial, safe, and upscale production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Neurological disorders become dependent on failure of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) during aging. • The UPS is reversibly regulated by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). • DUBs are a new therapeutic target in cases of neurodegenerative diseases. Most proteins undergo posttranslational modification such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, biotinylation, and ubiquitination to regulate various cellular processes. Ubiquitin-targeted proteins from the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) are degraded by 26S proteasome, along with this, deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) have specific activity against the UPS through detaching of ubiquitin on ubiquitin-targeted proteins. Balancing between protein expression and degradation through interplay between the UPS and DUBs is important to maintain cell homeostasis, and abnormal expression and elongation of proteins lead to diverse diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune response. Therefore, development of DUB inhibitors as therapeutic targets has been challenging. In addition, understanding of the roles of DUBs in neurodegeneration, specifically brain diseases, has emerged gradually. This review highlights recent studies on the molecular mechanisms for DUBs, and discusses potential therapeutic targets for DUBs in cases of brain diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous study, we investigated the effects of high-temperature requirement factor A4 (HtrA4) deficiency on trophoblasts using the BeWo KO cell line. However, the effects of this deficiency on angiogenesis remain unclear. To explore the role of HtrA4 in angiogenesis, HUVECs were co-cultured with wild-type BeWo cells (BeWo WT), BeWo KO, and HtrA4 -rescued BeWo KO (BeWo KO- HtrA4 rescue) cells. Dil staining and dextran analysis revealed that HUVECs co-cultured with BeWo KO formed tubes, but they were often disjointed compared to those co-cultured with BeWo WT, BeWo KO- HtrA4 rescue, and HUVECs controls. RT-PCR, ELISA, and western blot analysis were performed to assess angiogenesis-related factors at the mRNA and protein levels. HtrA4 deficiency inhibited IL-6 expression in trophoblasts, and the reduced secretion of IL-6 decreases VEGFA expression in HUVECs by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway to prevent tube formation. Moreover, rescuing HtrA4 expression restored the HUVEC tube formation ability. Interestingly, IL-6 expression was lower in supernatants with only cultured HUVECs than in co-cultured HUVECs with BeWo WT cells, but the HUVEC tube formation ability was similar. These findings suggest that the promoting angiogenesis-related signaling pathway differs between only HUVECs and co-cultured HUVECs, and that the deficiency of HtrA4 weakens the activation of the IL-6/JAK/STAT3/VEGFA signaling pathway, reducing the ability of tube formation in HUVECs. HtrA4 deficiency in trophoblasts hinders angiogenesis and may contribute to placental dysfunction. [Display omitted] • HtrA4 deficiency suppresses IL-6 expression in BeWo cells. • Reduced IL-6 lowers VEGFA expression via modulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling. • HtrA4 regulates the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/VEGFA axis, influencing tube formation in HUVECs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background We assessed the association of insulin resistance as indicated by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) with inflammatory molecules, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in urban young adolescents. Methods Seventy-six adolescents (36 subjects with HOMA-IR ≥ 2.6 and 40 subjects with HOMA-IR < 2.6) were included in the study. We assessed anthropometric and laboratory measures, such as BMI, blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles along with the aforementioned inflammatory biomarkers. The diagnostic accuracy of LBP, hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 for insulin resistance was evaluated by using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results The mean age of the study subjects was 12.0 [12.0–13.0] y. Circulating LBP plasma concentration and hs-CRP were significantly increased in subjects with HOMA-IR ≥ 2.6 when compared with those with HOMA-IR < 2.6 (P <.0001). There was no difference in TNF-α or IL-6 concentrations between groups. Comparisons based on the area under the ROC curve for LBP, hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 with regard to insulin resistance (HOMA-IR ≥ 2.6) were 0.8384 (95% CI: 0.7380 to 0.9388), 0.7907 (95% CI: 0.6701 to 0.9113), 0.6207 (95% CI: 0.4770 to 0.7643), and 0.5763 (95% CI: 0.4285 to 0.7241), respectively. Conclusions Among LBP, hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6, plasma LBP has the greatest diagnostic accuracy for insulin resistance in young adolescents. Prospective studies are warranted to delineate the value of LBP in the prediction of insulin resistance. Highlights • Plasma LBP is increased in young adolescents with insulin resistance and has the greatest diagnostic accuracy for insulin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is one of the deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that remove mono or polyubiquitin chains from target proteins. Depending on cancer types, USP7 has two opposing roles: oncogene or tumor suppressor. Moreover, it also known that USP7 functions in the cell cycle, apoptosis, DNA repair, chromatin remodeling, and epigenetic regulation through deubiquitination of several substrates including p53, mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2), Myc, and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). The [P/A/E]-X-X-S and K-X-X-X-K motifs of target proteins are necessary elements for the binding of USP7. In a previous study, we identified a novel substrate of USP7 through bioinformatics analysis using the binding motifs for USP7, and suggested that it can be an effective tool for finding new substrates for USP7. In the current study, gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that putative target proteins having the [P/A/E]-X-X-S and K-X-X-K motifs are involved in transcriptional regulation. Moreover, through protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis, we discovered that USP7 binds to the AVMS motif of ETS proto-oncogene 2 (ETS2) and deubiquitinates M1-, K11-, K27-, and K29-linked polyubiquitination of ETS2. Furthermore, we determined that suppression of USP7 decreases the protein stability of ETS2 and inhibits the transcriptional activity of ETS2 by disrupting the binding between the GGAA/T core motif and ETS2. Therefore, we propose that USP7 can be a novel target in cancers related to the dysregulation of ETS2. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Zonulin is acknowledged as the only physiological mediator established to reversibly regulate intestinal permeability through modulation of intercellular tight junctions. We aimed to determine whether there are differences in zonulin levels between 74 subjects with overweight or obesity and 76 with normal-weight and to assess correlations of circulating zonulin levels with anthropometric measures and obesity-related biomarkers. Methods We assessed anthropometric and laboratory measures, including body mass index (BMI) z-score, blood pressure, liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and insulin resistance. Serum zonulin levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The mean age of the participants was 12.8 ± 1.5 years. Circulating serum zonulin levels were significantly increased in subjects with overweight/obesity compared with those of normal-weight ( P  = 0.03). Zonulin levels were significantly and positively associated with BMI z-score, alanine aminotransferase levels, triglyceride, fasting insulin, and insulin resistance as indicated by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (all P  < 0.05). In multivariate linear regression analysis, alanine aminotransferase was significantly and positively associated with circulating zonulin levels in adolescents with overweight or obesity ( P  < 0.01) after controlling for the effect of potential confounding factors. BMI z-score tended to be positively associated with serum zonulin levels in this subgroup analysis ( P  = 0.06). Conclusions Serum zonulin is a biomarker associated with hepatic metabolic disturbances in young adolescents with overweight or obesity. The positive relationship suggests a potentially relevant pathophysiological mechanism linking zonulin to hepatic metabolism in this age group of young adolescents with overweight or obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously isolated Nicotiana benthamiana matrix metalloprotease 1 ( NMMP1 ) from tobacco leaves. The NMMP1 gene encodes a highly conserved, Zn-containing catalytic protease domain that functions as a factor in the plant’s defense against bacterial pathogens. Expression of NMMP1 was strongly induced during interactions between tobacco and one of its pathogens, Phytophthora infestans . To elucidate the role of the NMMP1 in defense of N. benthamiana against fungal pathogens, we performed gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies. NMMP1 -overexpressing plants had stronger resistance responses against P. infestans infections than control plants, while silencing of NMMP1 resulted in greater susceptibility of the plants to the pathogen. This greater susceptibility correlated with fewer NMMP1 transcripts than the non-silenced control. We also examined cell death as a measure of disease. The amount of cell death induced by the necrosis-inducing P. infestans protein 1, PiNPP1, was dependent on NMMP1 in N. benthamiana . Potato plants overexpressing NMMP1 also had enhanced disease resistance against P. infestans. RT-PCR analysis of these transgenic potato plants revealed constitutive up-regulation of the potato defense gene NbPR5. NMMP1 -overexpressing potato plants were taller and produced heavier tubers than control plants. We suggest a role for NMMP1 in pathogen defense and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]