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The aim of this pilot study was to analyze the serum proteomic profile of women suffering from menstrual-related migraine (MM group, n = 15) and migraine in post-menopause (PM group, n = 15) in comparison with non-headache control females (C group, n = 15). Serum samples were subjected to two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) followed by mass spectrometry (MS) analysis for protein identification. Based on 2D-gel maps and PDQuest 2-D software, 13 differentially expressed spots, corresponding to 12 unique proteins identified by Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Quadrupole-Time of Flight/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QToF-MS/MS), were detected in the MM and PM groups vs C group. Five inflammatory and regulatory of vascular integrity proteins (prothrombin, serum amyloid P-component, Ig kappa chain C region, apolipoprotein A-I, serum amyloid A-4 protein) were found deregulated in both MM and PM groups compared to C group; MM group showed the upregulation of other inflammatory protein fragments (inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4 and complement C4-A) compared to C group; PM group, in comparison with C group, displayed a noteworthy upregulation of transthyretin and other deregulated proteins (tetranectin, alpha-1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin, apolipoprotein A-IV) playing a role in anti-inflammatory and reparative processes. In conclusion, proteomic analysis was able to reveal differences in protein expression between migraine sufferers and non-headache women; as in other neurological diseases characterized by neuroinflammation, the serum proteome of migraine women presents an abundance of proteins indicative of cellular damage, oxidative stress and inflammation. This relevant inflammatory status, if confirmed in larger series, could represent a target for menstrual-related migraine treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Our goal was to determine the effect of systematically controlled variation in milk fat, true protein, casein, and serum protein concentrations on the sensory color, flavor and texture properties, instrumental color and viscosity, and milk fat globule size distribution of milk-based beverages. Beverage formulations were based on a complete balanced 3-factor (fat, true protein, and casein as a percentage of true protein) design with 3 fat levels (0.2, 1.0, and 2.0%), 4 true protein (TP) levels (3.00, 3.67, 4.34, and 5.00%) within each fat level, and 5 casein as a percentage of true protein (CN%TP) levels (5, 25, 50, 75, and 80%) within each protein level (for a total of 60 formulations within each of 2 replicates). Instrumental measures of Hunter L and a values and Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) b* values, instrumental viscosity, particle size, flavor, sensory texture and sensory appearance evaluations were done on each pasteurized/homogenized beverage formulation. Within each of the 3 fat levels, higher serum protein concentration drove higher aroma intensity, sweet aromatic, cooked/sulfur, cardboard/doughy flavors, and sensory yellowness scores, whereas higher casein concentration drove higher instrumental viscosity in milk protein beverages. Increasing serum protein concentration increased yellowness, sweet aromatic, aroma intensity, cooked/sulfur, and cardboard/doughy flavors across all fat levels and also had the largest effect on L, a, and b* values, sensory whiteness, and opacity within each fat level. Increases in true protein increased throat cling and astringency intensities. Increases in fat concentration were correlated with higher L, a, and b* values, larger particle size, and increased sensory whiteness, mouth coating, cooked/milky, and milkfat flavors. Multiple linear regression of L, a, and b* values produced better predictions of sensory whiteness and yellowness of pasteurized milk protein beverages than simple linear regression of L or b* values, respectively. Formulating milk protein beverages to a higher true protein level increased astringency regardless of fat level. When formulating milk protein beverages, a product developer has a wide range of milk-based protein ingredient choices that differ in price and change price relationship across time. Understanding the expected relative effect of different milk protein ingredients on the textural and flavor characteristics of milk-based beverages could be used to help guide product reformulation decisions and ingredient choices to achieve a specific sensory profile while controlling total beverage ingredient cost., (Copyright © 2019 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Vitamin C plays an important role in human health and therefore, the bioavailability and delivery of this micronutrient in solution have been the subject of intensive studies. Serum proteins are known to play an important role as drug delivery tools with important clinical applications. The conjugation of l-ascorbic acid with human serum albumin (HSA), bovine serum albumin (BSA) and beta-lactoglobulin (β-LG) was investigated in aqueous solution at physiological pH. Multiple spectroscopic methods, thermodynamic analysis and modeling were used to determine the binding efficacy of the vitamin C with serum proteins. Acid-protein conjugation occurred via ionic contacts. Acid forms more stable adducts with β-LG with the order of stability β-LG > HSA > BSA. The loading efficacy was 45-60%. Major alterations of protein secondary structures were observed upon acid conjugation. Serum proteins can deliver vitamin C in vitro., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: GvHD is one of the major complication after stem cell transplantation affecting transplant-related mortality. Throughout the last years, many serum proteins were been proposed as possible biomarkers for GvHD., Aims: We studied the trend of five of the most studied serum proteins to evaluate whether a correlation exists between proteins concentration and post-HSCT outcomes., Materials and Methods: We measured serum concentration of REG3α, ST2, B-cell activating factor (BAFF), CXCL9 and elafin in a cohort of 77 patients submitted to Hematopoietic allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in our department. Blood samples were been collected at baseline, day +30, GvHD onset and GvHD resolution., Results: REG3α levels showed an association only with acute GvHD. Elafin and ST2 levels varied according to both acute and chronic GvHD occurrence. BAFF concentration showed an inverse association with acute GvHD development. Interestingly, baseline BAFF and ST2 levels predicted post-HSCT survival. No associations were found for CXCL9., Conclusions: Except for CXCL9, the protein levels seem to change according to GvHD development, independently from organ involvement and grading. Pretransplant ST2 and BAFF appeared to be predictors for survival after HSCT., (© 2017 Stichting European Society for Clinical Investigation Journal Foundation.)

Previous studies with calves and other species have provided evidence that blood serum-derived proteins and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) may benefit intestinal health. We assessed the effects of supplementing products containing serum proteins as a component of arrival fluid support or serum proteins plus FOS (in addition to additional solids, minerals, and vitamins) in an early life dietary supplement on performance, morbidity, and mortality of stressed (transport, cold) male calves. Male Holstein calves (n=93) <1 wk old were stratified by arrival body weight (BW) and plasma protein concentration, and then randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of one-time administration of fluid support [either control electrolyte solution (E) or the serum protein-containing arrival formula (AF)] and 14d of either no supplementation (NG) or supplementation with Gammulin (G; APC Inc., Ankeny, IA), which contains serum proteins and FOS in addition to other solids, minerals, and vitamins. Upon arrival at the research facility, calves were orally administered either AF or E. At the next feeding, half of the calves from each fluid support treatment received either milk replacer (20% crude protein, 20% fat) or the same milk replacer supplemented with G (50g/d during the first 14d). Starter and water were freely available. Feed offered and refused was recorded daily. Calf health was assessed by daily assignment of fecal and respiratory scores. Stature measures and BW were determined weekly. Blood samples were obtained at d 0 (before treatments), 2, 7, 14, and 28. Calves were weaned at d 42 and remained in the experiment until d 56. After 2 wk of treatments, calves previously fed AF had greater body length (66.6 vs. 66.0cm), intakes of dry matter (38.7 vs. 23.5g/d) and crude protein (9.2 vs. 5.6g/d) from starter, and cortisol concentration in blood (17.0 vs. 13.9 ng/mL) than calves fed E. Supplementation with G resulted in greater BW gain during the first 2 wk, increased intakes of dry matter and CP, and decreased respiratory scores. For the 8-wk experiment, G supplementation resulted in lower mean fecal score (1.6 vs. 1.8) and fewer antibiotic treatments per calf (1.5 vs. 2.5) than NG. Survival was greater in G than in NG calves (98 vs. 84%). Despite the marked reduction in morbidity and mortality, blood indicators of acute-phase response, urea N, and total protein were not affected by AF or G in transported cold-stressed male calves., (Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To conduct a comprehensive quantitative proteomics analysis of novel serum protein biomarkers based on synovitis status associated with matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) and to determine the clinical significance of these biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: Patients with untreated RA (n=28), primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) (n=30), and healthy controls (HCs) (n=30) were enrolled for the screening assay. A total of 1128 serum proteins were analyzed using the SOMAscan™ assay. Serum levels of MMP-3 and interleukin (IL)-16 were measured using a latex turbidimetric immunoassay and ELISA at baseline and 12weeks after treatment with methotrexate (MTX) for MTX-naïve RA patients (n=28) or with the biologics tocilizumab (TCZ) (n=7), abatacept (ABT) (n=11) or infliximab (n=22) for MTX-inadequate response (IR) RA patients. Correlation analysis was conducted using Spearman's rank correlation method., Results: Proteomics showed that serum IL-16 levels were most positively correlated with those of MMP-3 (ρ=0.51, p<0.01) and were significantly increased in patients with untreated active RA compared to HCs (p<0.01) or those with pSS (p<0.01). IL-16 levels decreased following treatment in both the MTX-naïve and MTX-IR groups. Regarding clinical response, fluctuations in IL-16 levels were positively associated with changes in clinical indicators, particularly the Clinical Disease Activity Index (ρ=0.89, p<0.01) in the TCZ and ABT-treated group. However, no similar correlation was noted in MMP-3 and acute phase reactants in any groups., Conclusions: IL-16 was a more effective clinical parameter than MMP-3, C-reactive protein, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate in both MTX-naive and MTX-IR RA patients. IL-16 might be a useful biomarker for evaluating clinical response in RA patients., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

We used surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to measure the affinity and kinetics of the interaction between serum proteins and both conventional and PEGylated liposomes. The effect of the interactions on secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2)-induced release of a model drug from liposomes was also assessed. SPR analysis of 12 serum proteins revealed that the mode of interaction between serum proteins and liposomes greatly varies depending on the type of protein. For example, albumin bound to liposomes at slower association/dissociation rates with higher affinity and prevented sPLA2-induced drug release from PEGylated liposomes. Conversely, fibronectin bound at faster association/dissociation rates with lower affinity and demonstrated little impact on the drug release. These results indicate that the effect of serum proteins on sPLA2 phospholipid hydrolysis varies with the mode of interaction between proteins and liposomes. Understanding how the proteins interact with liposomes and impact sPLA2 phospholipid hydrolysis should aid the rational design of therapeutic liposomal formulations., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The tendency of calcium to promote microfiltration (MF) membrane fouling is well documented, but the role of lactose has not been studied. Milk protein concentrate that is 85% protein on a dry basis (MPC85) contains less calcium and lactose than skim milk. Our objectives were to determine the effects of skim milk soluble calcium and lactose concentrations on the limiting fluxes (LF) and serum protein (SP) removal factors of 0.1-µm ceramic graded permeability membranes. The MF was fed with 3 different milks: skim milk, liquid MPC85 that had been standardized to the protein content of skim milk with reverse osmosis water (MPC), and liquid MPC85 that had been standardized to the protein and lactose contents of skim milk with reverse osmosis water and lactose monohydrate (MPC+L). Retentate and permeate were continuously recycled to the feed tank. The LF for each feed was determined by increasing flux once per hour from 55 kg·m(-2)·h(-1) until flux did not increase with increasing transmembrane pressure. Temperature, pressure drop across the membrane length, and protein concentration in the retentate recirculation loop were maintained at 50°C, 220 kPa, and 8.77 ± 0.2%, respectively. Experiments were replicated 3 times and the Proc GLM procedure of SAS was used for statistical analysis. An increase in LF between skim milk (91 kg·m(-2)·h(-1)) and MPC+L (124 kg·m(-2)·h(-1)) was associated with a reduction in soluble calcium. The LF of MPC+L was lower than the LF of MPC (137 kg·m(-2)·h(-1)) due to the higher viscosity contributed by lactose. Permeates produced from the MPC and MPC+L contained more protein than the skim milk permeate due to the transfer of caseins from the micelles into the reduced-calcium sera of the MPC and MPC+L. A SP removal factor was calculated by dividing true protein in the permeate by SP in the permeate portion of the feed to describe the ease of SP passage through the membrane. No differences in SP removal factors were detected among the 3 feeds below the LF. As the fluxes approached the LF, SP removal factors decreased due to fouling. Feeding a MF system with MPC instead of skim milk will reduce the required membrane surface area, but the permeate protein composition will be slightly higher in casein content., (Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Recently, the chemo-photothermal synergistic therapy has become a potential method for cancer treatment. Herein, we developed a multifunctional nanomaterial for chemo-photothermal therapeutics based on silica and graphene core/shell structure (SiO2@GN) because of the ability of GN to convert light energy into heat. Serum protein was further modified onto the surface of GN (SiO2@GN-Serum) to improve the solubility and stability of GN-based nanoparticles in physiological conditions. The as-synthesized SiO2@GN-Serum nanoparticles (NPs) have been revealed to have high photothermal conversion efficiency and stability, as well as high storage and release capacity for anticancer drug doxorubicin (SiO2@GN-Serum-Dox). The therapeutic efficacy of SiO2@GN-Serum-Dox has been evaluated in vitro and in vivo for cervical cancer therapy. In vitro cytotoxicity tests demonstrate that SiO2@GN-Serum NPs have excellent biocompatibility. However, SiO2@GN-Serum-Dox NPs show higher cytotoxicity than SiO2@GN-Serum and free Dox under irradiation with NIR laser at 1.0 W/cm(2) for 5 min owing to both SiO2@GN-Serum-mediated photothermal ablation and cytotoxicity of light-triggered Dox release. In mouse models, the tumor growth is significantly inhibited by chem-photothermal effect of SiO2@GN-Serum-Dox. Overall, compared with single chemotherapy or photothermal therapy, the combined treatment demonstrates better therapeutic efficacy. Our results suggest a promising GN-based core/shell nanostructure for biomedical applications.

Background: POSSUM was developed to predict risk-adjusted mortality and morbidity rates for surgical procedures. We evaluated the impact of serum albumin and serum protein levels on POSSUM scores., Methods: Medical files of 2269 patients operated for proximal femur fractures were reviewed. Preoperative serum albumin levels were available for 387 patients (mean 35.1g/l, range 22-49) and serum protein levels for 279 patients (mean 61.6g/l, range 40-86)., Results: Serum albumin and protein levels were inversely associated with mortality in multivariate models (albumin, OR=0.89, p=0.009; protein, OR=0.92, p=0.009) and in composite outcome models as well (albumin, OR=0.955, p=0.219, protein, OR=0.94, p=0.014). The area under the curve (AUC) for POSSUM prediction of mortality (n=1770) was 0.632 (95% CI: 0.580-0.684, p<0.001). The AUC for a model including serum protein levels was 0.742 (95% CI: 0.649-0.834, p<0.001). Hospitalisation time was longer for patients with lower serum proteins levels (p=0.045), with an inverse correlation (Pearson correlation -0.164, p=0.011)., Conclusions: Lower preoperative serum albumin and serum protein levels were associated with increased risk for mortality, increased hospitalisation time and poorer outcomes in patients operated for proximal femoral fractures. Including those values to POSSUM scores would increase their predictive power., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Allergic reactions are the most frequent adverse events in blood transfusion, and anaphylactic shock, although less frequent, is systemic and serious. The cause of allergic reactions to blood transfusions are largely unknown, but deficiencies in serum proteins such as haptoglobin (Hp) can lead to anaphylactic shock. A complete deletion of the haptoglobin gene (HPdel) was first identified in families with anomalous inheritance and then verified as a genetic variant that can cause anaphylactic shock because homozygotes for HPdel have complete Hp deficiency. Thereby, they may produce antibodies against Hp from blood transfusions. HPdel is found in East and Southeast Asian populations, with a frequency of approximately 0.9% to 4%, but not in other populations. Diagnosis of Hp deficiency due to HPdel prior to transfusion is advisable because severe adverse reactions can be prevented by washing the red blood cells and/or platelets with saline or by administering plasma products obtained from an Hp-deficient donor pool. This review outlines the background of the identification of HPdel and several genetic and immunological methods developed for diagnosing Hp deficiency caused by HPdel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium toxicity affects the biochemical parameters. Cadmium was a Class I carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and it is one of the most hazardous heavy metal pollutant. Cadmium immuno toxicity provides new vision into the alterations of Cadmium treatment on immunity, as well as effective ways to induce Cadmium Biochemical parameters in blood serum of animals. Immune response heamatological and biochemical parameters are closely related in blood hence any change in the immune response would also induce alternation in the biochemical parameters like serum glucose, serum cholesterol, serum protein, serum urea, serum acid phosphatase and serum alkaline phosphatase. Extra pollution of heavy metal toxicity like cadmium results may be much more reliable and satisfactory in experimental animals rather than humans. The concept of cadmium modulation of biochemical toxicity is an important subject for the studies. Present studies have been taken to find out the biochemical alterations in blood serum, which would help in understanding the toxicity of cadmium acetate in Kuroiler chicks and also to find the ways and means to counteract the toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in patients with long-term noise exposure is vital for improving public health and reducing social burden. However, at present, the diagnosis of NIHL mainly depends on audiometric testing, and the primary test is pure-tone audiometry. Moreover, testing requires professional operators and complex equipment; thus, NIHL is often diagnosed at a later disease stage. Using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)-based proteomic approach, we identified 9 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), namely, 6 upregulated serum proteins and 3 downregulated serum proteins, in samples from 50 ground crew personnel working at an air force station. Then, according to the results, we predicted that caldesmon (CALD1), myocilin (MYOC), zyxin (ZYX), creatine kinase M-type (CKM), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 2 (IGFBP2), complement factor H-related protein 4 (CFHR4), prenylcysteine oxidase 1 (PCYOX1), heat shock cognate 71 kDa protein (HSPA8), and immunoglobulin lambda variable 3-21 (IGLV3-21) were associated with NIHL. We selected these DEPs as variables to perform logistic regression. Finally, a logistic regression model was constructed based on IGFBP2, ZYX, CKM, and CFHR4. The area under the curve was 0.894 (95% CI = 0.812 to 0.977). These findings suggested that IGFBP2, ZYX, CKM, and CFHR4 in serum are differentially expressed in NIHL patients and have the potential to be biomarkers for predicting the risk for NIHL. Further experiments in mice showed that ZYX and IGFBP2 in the cochlear were increased after noise exposure. ZYX and IGFBP2 may be involved in the occurrence and development of NIHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal calf diarrhea is a major problem in the cattle industry worldwide. Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium parvum are the primary causative agents, especially during the first three weeks of the calf 's life. Objectives: This study investigated the differences in acid-base, electrolytes, and biochemical parameters of diarrheic calves with infection of either rotavirus or C. parvum. Methods: A total of 61 Korean native calves (≤ 20 days old) were divided into two groups based on rotavirus or C. parvum infections: rotavirus infection (n = 44) and C. parvum infection (n = 17). The calves with at a specific blood pH range (pH 6.92-7.25) were chosen for comparison. The acid-base, electrolyte, chemistry, and serum proteins were analyzed, Further, fecal examinations were performed. Results: Compared to C. parvum-infected calves, the rotavirus-infected calves showed lower levels of total carbon dioxide, bicarbonate (HCO3-), anion gap, total protein, and albumin/globulin ratio, and significantly lower levels of potassium, globulin, and α2-globulin (p < 0.05). The C. parvum-infected calves (r = 0.749) had stronger correlations between pH and HCO3- than the rotavirus-infected calves (r = 0.598). Compared to rotavirus-infected calves, strong correlations between globulin and α2-globulin, α2-globulin and haptoglobin were identified in C. parvum-infected calves. Conclusions: This study is the first to investigate acid-base, electrolyte, and biochemical parameters in calves in response to infections of rotavirus and C. parvum. Although rotavirus and C. parvum cause malabsorptive and secretory diarrhea in similar-aged calves, blood parameters were different. This would help establish the diagnostic and treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study examined the effects of dietary supplementation of Syzygium aromaticum leaf meal (SLM) on the haematology, serum biochemistry and antioxidative status of laying hens. Results: A total of 150 20-week-old Isa brown birds were randomly assigned to three experimental diets: Diet 1/control (no supplementation), Diet 2 (0.25% SLM) and Diet 3 (0.50% SLM). Each experimental diet was further divided into five (5) replicates and comprised 10 birds per replicate, that is, 50 birds per experimental diet. The birds were fed with layers mash for 32 weeks of the feeding trial. Blood samples collected in the 32nd week were subjected to haematological and serum biochemical analyses. The dietary supplementation of 0.25% and 0.50% SLM did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the haematological parameters observed in the layer birds which indicated that SLM did not render the birds anaemic nor compromise their immunity. Likewise, the result of the serum protein (total protein, albumin, globulin and albumin: globulin), serum enzymes (alanine and aspartate aminotransferases) and serum metabolites (creatinine, uric acid and glucose) were not affected (P > 0.05) by the dietary treatment except for the concentration of serum catalase and glutathione peroxidase which was statistically higher (P < 0.05) in layers fed with diets supplemented with SLM compared to the control group, while the serum superoxide dismutase concentration of laying hens was not significantly influenced (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The supplementation of SLM at 0.25% and 0.50% in layers diet can be referred to as a safe additive as the blood indices of birds were not adversely affected. Also, the liver functions which were investigated through the serum enzymes were not impaired and oxidative stress is not triggered in the birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serum albumin (SA), the most abundant soluble protein in the body, maintains plasma oncotic pressure and regulates the distribution of vascular fluid and has a range of other important functions. The goals of this review are to expand clinical knowledge regarding the functions of SA, elucidate effects of dysregulated SA concentration, and discuss the clinical relevance of hypoalbuminemia resulting from various diseases. We discuss potential repercussions of SA dysregulation on cholesterol levels, liver function, and other processes that rely on its homeostasis, as decreased SA concentration has been shown to be associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, and mortality. We describe the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of SA, as well as its ability to bind and transport a plethora of endogenous and exogenous molecules. SA is the primary serum protein involved in binding and transport of drugs and as such has the potential to affect, or be affected by, certain medications. Of current relevance are antibody-based inhibitors of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), several of which are under clinical development to treat immunoglobulin G (IgG)-mediated autoimmune disorders; some have been shown to decrease SA concentration. FcRn acts as a homeostatic regulator of SA by rescuing it, as well as IgG, from intracellular degradation via a common cellular recycling mechanism. Greater clinical understanding of the multifunctional nature of SA and the potential clinical impact of decreased SA are needed; in particular, the potential for certain treatments to reduce SA concentration, which may affect efficacy and toxicity of medications and disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) are prevalent worldwide, including Thailand. Vectors can transmit more than one pathogen, and coinfections between blood parasites and/or filariae have been reported. Pathogenesis may affect the health status of infected dogs. Hematological, blood chemistry, and serum protein profile abnormalities can be used to screen for underlining causes of CVBDs. The aim of this study is to analyze the hematological and serum protein profiles as well as CRP in CVBD coinfection cases. In this study, 22 blood parasite coinfection cases are examined and classified into two groups: blood parasite coinfection (group 1: n = 16) and blood parasite and filaria coinfection (group 2: n = 6), both of which reveal anemia and thrombocytopenia abnormalities. The white blood cell and neutrophil count in group 2 showed slight increases. The serum protein profiles and CRP levels in both groups indicate hypoalbuminemia, increased ß2 and ? globulin fractions, and increased CRP concentrations. The results of this study could be used by veterinarians to develop guidelines for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of coinfection in CVBDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Canine tick-borne diseases are important diseases with a worldwide distribution. In Thailand, the most important canine tick-borne diseases are ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and hepatozoonosis. This study aimed to determine the serum protein electrophoresis patterns (SPEPs) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels associated with Ehrlichia canis, Babesia canis, or Hepatozoon canis single infections. Materials and Methods: A total of 650 canine blood samples were collected from animal hospitals and clinics in Bangkok and its vicinity to examine health status and blood parasite infection. Suspected blood parasite infections were examined by buffy coat thin blood smear and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Normal dog and positive E. canis, B. canis, and H. canis single infections and serum protein profiles were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. CRP concentration was measured by fluorescent immunoassay. Results: In dogs infected with E. canis, B. canis, and H. canis single infections, albumin levels and A/G ratios significantly decreased, whereas β2-globulin levels increased (p<0.05). The γ-globulin level significantly increased in E. canis and H. canis infections (p<0.05). A monoclonal gammopathy pattern was observed in E. canis and B. canis single infections, whereas β-γ bridging patterns and increased β- and γ-globulin fractions were found in H. canis single infections. The CRP level increased in dogs with blood parasite single infections and may be related to the pathogenesis of the infection. Conclusion: SPEPs and CRP levels can be used to monitor health status and blood parasite problems in infected dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable protein markers for pre-diabetes in humans are not clinically available. In order to identify novel and reliable protein markers for pre-diabetes in humans, healthy volunteers and patients diagnosed with pre-diabetes and stroke were recruited for blood collection. Blood samples were collected from healthy and pre-diabetic subjects 12 h after fasting. BMI was calculated from body weight and height. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), insulin and albumin were assayed by automated clinical laboratory methods. We used a quantitative proteomics approach to identify 1074 proteins from the sera of pre-diabetic and healthy subjects. Among them, 500 proteins were then selected using Mascot analysis scores. Further, 70 out of 500 proteins were selected via volcano plot analysis according to their statistical significance and average relative protein ratio. Eventually, 7 serum proteins were singled out as candidate markers for pre-diabetes due to their diabetic relevance and statistical significance. Immunoblotting data demonstrated that laminin subunit alpha 2 (LAMA2), mixed-lineage leukemia 4 (MLL4), and plexin domain containing 2 (PLXDC2) were expressed in pre-diabetic patients but not healthy volunteers. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that the combination of the three proteins has greater diagnostic efficacy than any individual protein. Thus, LAMA2, MLL4 and PLXDC2 are novel and reliable serum protein markers for pre-diabetic diagnosis in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Canine filariasis is caused by several species of filarial worms. The pathophysiological response to infection is mainly due to the filaria lifecycle. Laboratory detection methods to assess the pathological alterations characteristic of filariasis are needed urgently. Serum protein profiles and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are used widely to diagnose several animal diseases. This study aimed to determine the serum protein profiles and CRP levels in dogs infected with Dirofilaria immitis or Brugia pahangi or both parasites. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 980 dogs presenting at animal hospitals and veterinary clinics in Bangkok and its vicinity. The presence of microfilaria in samples was determined using a buffy coat smear and staining with Wright-Giemsa. The sheathed and unsheathed microfilaria species were identified by acid phosphatase staining. Forty positive samples were tested. The serum protein profiles were identified by agarose gel electrophoresis. The CRP concentration was measured using a fluorescent immunoassay. Results: Albumin levels and albumin-to-globulin ratios were significantly lower, and total protein, β2 globulin, and γ globulin levels were significantly elevated in dogs infected with D. immitis and B. pahangi compared with reference values in normal dogs. The average CRP concentrations in dogs infected with D. immitis or B. pahangi were 69.9 and 12.9 mg/L, respectively. Conclusion: The total protein and γ globulin levels increased in canine filariasis compared with the normal reference range. The CRP concentration in dogs infected with D. immitis was extremely high, whereas that in dog infected with B. pahangi was normal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to characterize serum protein capillary electrophoretic pattern in 20 clinically healthy neonate calves. The neonates were monitored from birth up to 28 days of age. Venous blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and used for the determination of serum protein fractions using capillary electrophoresis technique. The younger calves 4–11 days old showed electrophoretic pattern composed of albumin and α1-, α2-, β1-, β2- and γ-globulins, whereas the young calves 15–28 days old showed a pattern composed of albumin and α1-, α2-, β- and γ-globulins. The mean values of the relative concentration of serum protein fraction profile (%) were 42.96 ± 6.97 for albumin, 4.53 ± 9.91 for α1-globulin, 20.96 ± 6.80 for α2-globulin, 9.64 ± 1.66 for β1-globulin, 17.38 ± 11.68 for β2-globulin, 12.53 ± 6.17 for β-globulins, 15.98 ± 11.24 for γ-globulins and 0.79 ± 0.22 for albumin/globulins ratio (A/G). Albumin and α2 and β1-globulin fractions (%) and A/G ratio decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) in the youngest calves 4–6 days old compared with the calves 15–28 days old. A highly significant decrease (P < 0.0001) in serum-[albumin] was observed in the youngest calves 4–6 days old compared with the calves 15–28 days old. The concentration of β1-globulin (g/l) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the youngest calves 4–6 days old compared with the calves 8–11 days old. The neonatal period had a significant effect on the serum protein electrophoretic pattern as a physiological adaptation to the extra-uterine environment and the nutritional status of the neonate's calves. The data can employ for the clinical monitoring of dysproteinaemias associated with the neonatal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serum protein as naturally essential biomacromolecules has recently emerged as a versatile carrier for diagnostic and therapeutic drug delivery for cancer nanomedicine with superior biocompatibility, improved pharmacokinetics and enhanced targeting capacity. A variety of serum proteins have been utilized for drug delivery, mainly including albumin, ferritin/apoferritin, transferrin, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein and hemoglobin. As evidenced by the success of paclitaxel-bound albumin nanoparticles (AbraxaneTM), serum protein-based nanoparticles have gained attractive attentions for precise biological design and potential clinical application. In this review, we summarize the general design strategies, targeting mechanisms and recent development of serum protein-based nanoparticles in the field of cancer nanomedicine. Moreover, we also concisely specify the current challenges to be addressed for a bright future of serum protein-based nanomedicines. Unlabelled Image • Design strategies of protein-based nanoparticles for cancer diagnosis and treatment. • Targeting principles of protein-based nanoparticles. • Biomineralization-based nanoreactor method to fabricate protein-based nanoparticles. • Applications of protein-based nanoparticles in cancer imaging and therapy. • Future challenge and perspective of protein-based nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Screening of electrophoretic pattern of serum protein is crucial for the initial evaluation of numerous clinical conditions. The present study aimed to investigate and compare the normal serum protein electrophoretic pattern in three gazelle species which included sand gazelle (Gazella gazella), mountain gazelle (Gazella subgutterosa) and Erlanger’s gazelle (Gazella erlangeri). Significant (P ≤ 0.05) interspecies differences were noticed in A/G ratio and in α-1, β and ɤ globulins fractions using agarose gel electrophoresis. Significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences between males of the three species were encountered in α-1, α- 2 and β globulins fractions, while significant differences in A/G ratio, ɤ, α-1, α-2 and β globulins fractions were observed between females of the three species. Significance (P ≤ 0.05) intersex differences were observed for albumin in sand gazelle and for α-2 and β globulins fractions in mountain gazelle. The results obtained from the current study could provide a baseline references and could be used for diagnostic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was aimed to establish reference data for nine serum biochemical attributes (glucose, protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, cholesterol, triglycerides, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase [SGOT] and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase [SGPT]) of a supreme aquaculture candidate, namely Lutjanus argentimaculatus. Further, the influence of ecotype (cage–wild), condition index and gender on biochemical attributes was evaluated. The results have shown that gender and condition index had no significant effect in the studied age group, whereas ecotype had a significant role, except on serum glucose levels, suggesting the prime importance of estimating ecotype‐specific reference intervals for interpreting fish health. Intra‐ecotype variability of serum biochemical attributes, namely serum protein, globulin, cholesterol and triglycerides, was less, suggesting the possibility of using these parameters as health indices within a specific ecotype. Consistency in terms of the least intra‐ecotype variability coupled with PCA results points serum protein as the best ecotype‐specific health index among the different parameters studied. Altogether, the results of the present study provide thought‐provoking insights on serum biochemistry of L. argentimaculatus as a platform for the health management of this supreme aquaculture candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood components are considered to reflect nutrient metabolism and immune activity in both humans and animals. In this study, we measured 12 blood components in Pekin ducks and performed genome-wide association analysis to identify the QTLs (quantitative trait locus) using a genotyping-by-sequencing strategy. A total of 54 QTLs were identified for blood components. One genome-wide significant QTL for alkaline phosphatase was identified within the intron-region of the OTOG gene (P = 1.31E-07). Moreover, 21 genome-wide significant SNPs for the level of serum cholinesterase were identified on six different scaffolds. In addition, for serum calcium, one genome-wide significant QTL was identified in the upstream region of gene RAB11B. These results provide new markers for functional studies in Pekin ducks, and several candidate genes were identified, which may provide additional insights into specific mechanisms for blood metabolism in ducks and their potential application for duck breeding programs. • This study is the first to show that BCHE gene may be related to fat percentage in ducks. • Some serum lipids were found to have moderate and high heritabilities in ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: uterine fibroid (leiomyoma) is the most common benign uterine tumors in women of reproductive age. The majority of leiomyomas are asymptomatic, however up to 20% cause menorrhagia, pelvic pain and genitourinary symptoms. Objective: the aim of the study was to evaluate using of total protein or serum prolactin as a marker for evaluation and follow up of uterine leiomyomas. Patients and Methods: a randomized, controlled clinical trial study design was utilized to prove the relation between uterine fibroid and serum prolactin and serum protein. The study was performed at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in AL Hussein Hospital. 100 females have myoma of different sizes are included in this research. Results: it was concluded that serum total protein and albumin levels in patients with elevated serum TNF levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the corresponding values in patients with undetectable serum TNF levels. The study concluded that prolactin (PRL) levels are decreased following surgical therapy in patients with uterine fibroids. In addition, a slight increase in serum total protein was detected after surgery in uterine patients. Conclusion: in conclusion, a highly significant correlation was found between serum PRL and its ratio with serum total protein. This result ensured and supported the relation between the patient's serum PRL and serum total protein with their fibroid number. This enables to suggest these variables as a simple biochemical marker supporting other clinical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Purpose of this study is to measure the Vitamin D status of healthy adults and to correlate with their lifestyle and feeding habits. Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is the most common marker of vitamin D status of an individual. Deficiency of vitamin D is defined as the serum level less than 20 ng/mL and insufficiency as 30 ng/mL which can be prevented. Design/methodology/approach: Vitamin D status of healthy adults (n = 82), both male and females between the age of 18 – 50 years who were attending to the National Transport Authority, Kandy, Sri Lanka from February to March 2016, was measured and correlated with their lifestyle, feeding habits, etc. Findings: The mean total serum D (25(OH)D in this study was 40.15 ± 3.74 nmol/l with the mean value of 42.8 ± 28.8 and 37.5 ± 16.6 for women and men, respectively. The serum calcium levels of both female and male were around 8 mg/dl and the serum total protein was 6.5 and 7 g/dl in women and men, respectively. The serum Vitamin D, calcium and total protein were not statistically significantly different between the sexes. In this study, 84 per cent of the total subjects were normocalcemic, and there was no significant relationship between vitamin D levels and their calcium levels. Research limitations/implications: This study demonstrates that there was no statistically significant correlation between the serum vitamin D with age, serum calcium or total proteins. The majority of participants who had exposure to the sunlight more than 30 mins/day had sufficient level of vitamin D and less than 30 min/day exposure had deficiency of vitamin D. Daily intake of multivitamin influenced vitamin D status of the study group. Practical implications: These findings will implicate the importance of cultural, feed and social habits for the nutritional status of an individual.and there are no reported studies on vitamin D status with reference to the variation of life style. Social implications: It is very important to investigate the factors affecting to the vitamin D status of a population as such, vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency can be prevented. In Sri Lanka, the population is consisting with many ethnic groups, different ethnic groups may find some nutritional problems according to their main cultural habits. Originality/value: The objectives of this study are to evaluate the Vitamin D status in a group of healthy adults between 20 and 50 years in both men and women and to find out the correlation of their vitamin D status with their lifestyle and feeding habits, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between fructosamine (FRUC) and glucose (GLU) amounts in dog was previously reported. On the other hand, no correlations were reported in transition dairy cow and late-pregnant sheep. Similar controversy also existed concerning the relationship between FRUC, albumin (ALB), and total protein (TP) concentrations. Thirty-three healthy Holstein cows were enrolled in to the study. Blood samples were obtained by jugular venipuncture at 3 and 1 weeks before and 1 and 3 weeks after calving. The concentrations of FRUC, GLU, ALB, TP, β hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured with automated biochemical analyzer, using commercial kits. SPSS software, version 20 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA) was used for data analysis. The mean ± SE of fructosamine for all cows during the study was 355.6 ± 4.5 μmol/l. There was significant difference in the serum concentration of FRUC post-partum, and throughout of trial, but not at pre-partum period. The maximum concentration of FRUC was at W−1 and decreased thereafter. There were significant positive correlations between FRUC and GLU concentrations at pre-partum, post-partum, and overall time of the study. There were significant negative correlations between FRUC and NEFA concentrations at pre-partum, post-partum, and overall time of the study. There were no correlations between FRUC, TP, ALB, and BHBA amounts at pre-partum, post-partum, and overall time of the study. Linear regression analysis between each sampling amount of GLU and three consecutive FRUC concentrations did not reveal significant correlation between GLU and FRUC. According to present results, fructosamine measurement could be considered as a useful indicator of energy economy in transition period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Serum proteins play an important role as drug delivery in the clinical applications. We have determined the binding efficacy of tea catechins (+)-catechin (C), (−)-epicatechin gallate (ECG) and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) with human serum albumin (HSA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in aqueous solution at physiological pH. Thermodynamic parameters Δ H 0 −13 to −8 (kJ mol−1), Δ S 0 18 to 9 (J mol−1K−1) and Δ G 0 -14 to −13 (kJ mol−1) showed tea catechins bind serum proteins via ionic interactions. The binding efficacy was 40–65% for polyphenol-protein conjugates. Modeling showed the presence of H-bonding, stabilizing catechin-protein conjugation with the free binding energy of −10.65 to −8.81 kcal/mol for catechin-HSA and −9.94 to −9.74 kcal/mol for catechin-BSA conjugates. Catechin conjugation induced major perturbations of the protein conformation. Our studies indicate that serum proteins can transport tea catechins in vitro. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • The conjugation of tea catechins with serum albumins is studied here. • Catechin-protein interactions are via ionic contacts. • Larger catechins form more stable protein conjugates. • Major alterations of protein conformation were observed upon polyphenol conjugation. • Serum albumins are capable of transporting tea catechins in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aims to produce a serum protein ingredient enriched with dephosphorylated β-casein from skim milk for infant formula manufacture using ceramic membrane filtration combined with enzymatic dephosphorylation. Compared to filtration at 25 °C or using skim milk ultrafiltration permeates as a diafiltrant, filtration at 4 °C using water as a diafiltrant improved the selective co-enrichment of β-casein with whey proteins in the permeates, resulting in a serum protein ingredient with 49% β-casein, 45% whey proteins and 6% of other caseins after microfiltration and 4-stage diafiltration. Subsequent incubation with phosphatase achieved 0–97% casein dephosphorylation, and β-casein showed multi-dephosphorylated isoforms depending on dephosphorylation extent. With increased dephosphorylation, β-casein enriched serum protein ingredients formed looser gastric clots with greater gastrointestinal digestibility under infant in vitro model conditions. These results offer a potential to develop a multi-functional serum protein ingredient with a casein profile (composition/phosphorylation) close to human milk for use in infant formula. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Microfiltration and 4-stage water diafiltration at 4 °C enriched β-casein in serum. • Serum ingredient contained 49% β-casein, 45% whey protein, 6% other casein. • Incubation with potato acid phosphatase achieved 0–97% casein dephosphorylation. • β-casein showed multple isoforms depending on dephosphorylation extent. • Dephosphorylation improved infant in vitro digestibility of serum ingredient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exact cause instigating multiple myeloma (MM) has not been fully elucidated, and the disease has a median survival of 6 months without any treatment. To identify potential biomarkers of MM, serum proteins reflecting alteration in their proteomes were analyzed in 6 patients with MM compared with 6 healthy controls using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of flight mass spectrometry. The most notable differentially expressed proteins were validated by immunoblotting and changes in mRNA expression were evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A total of 11 differentially expressed protein spots were found. The expression levels of 7 proteins [Immunoglobulin heavy constant µ; proto-oncogene diffuse B-cell lymphoma (DBL2); 26S protease regulatory subunit 4 (P26s4); serum albumin; haptoglobin; and two unknown proteins with isoelectronic point (pI) of 6.41 and molecular weight of 35.4 kDa, and pI of 8.05 and molecular weight of 27.4 kDa, respectively] were downregulated in MM compared with healthy controls. Expression of gel actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1A (ARPC1A); immunoglobulin heavy constant γ 1; fibrinogen α chain (FGA) fragment D; and zinc finger protein 70 were increased in serum of MM patients. Protein expressions of ARPC1A, FGA, P26s4 and DBL2 were measured by immunoblotting in an independent cohort of 12 MM patients and 10 healthy controls. RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that ARPC1A expression only mimicked protein expression, whereas FGA, PSMC1 (encoding P26s4) and MCF2 (encoding DBL2) did not exhibit significant changes in mRNA expression between control and MM samples. These proteins represent putative serological biomarkers for patients with MM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: alpha-2 region; capillary electrophoresis; laboratory methods; monoclonal protein; serum protein EN alpha-2 region capillary electrophoresis laboratory methods monoclonal protein serum protein e145 e147 3 03/13/21 20210401 NES 210401 To the Editor, Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is a laboratory method that provides information about the protein components present in a large quantity in the body. Here, we describe two case reports presenting monoclonal proteins in the alpha region, which represent around 0.01% of all monoclonal components identified at the San Gerardo Hospital, Monza (Italy), from 2015 to 2019, when capillary electrophoresis was introduced as protein separation method in the laboratory (Capillarys, Sebia SP ® sp ). The introduction of capillary electrophoresis improved the accuracy of protein electrophoresis, allowing a more sensitive and specific detection of protein abnormalities. [Extracted from the article]

The enhancement of both disease resistance and growth performance are essential for successful fish production and the use of dietary medicinal herbs can be used as natural immunostimulants as well as growth promoter in fish. Consequently, a 45-day feeding experiment was conducted to explore the effect of dietary blue lotus (Nymphaea nouchali) leaf (BLL) and blue lotus flower (BLF) on growth and haemato-immunological parameters in Labeo rohita fingerlings and reported for the first time. Two hundred fingerlings (average weight 18.5 ± 0.1 g) were randomly assigned to five treatment groups in quadruplicate. Five purified diets (35% CP) were made with varying degrees of either blue lotus leaf (BLL) or flower (BLF) inclusion viz.T1 (Control - 0%), T2 (0.2% BLL), T3 (0.4% BLL), T4 (0.2% BLF) and T5 (0.4% BLF). Weight gain (percent) and SGR increased significantly (P < 0.05) after inclusion at graded levels, but other measures such as FCR, PER, HSI, and GSI showed no discernible changes (P > 0.05). Total protein, globulin, and glucose concentrations in the serum showed a significant difference (P < 0.05). Serum total protein and globulin levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the T5 group, whereas serum glucose levels, declined significantly (P < 0.05) compared to contol. There was a significant (P < 0.05) rise in WBC count, but no significant (P > 0.05) changes in haemoglobin (Hb) and RBC count. Overall, the findings of the results conclude that the dietary supplementation of blue lotus leaves and flowers can increase growth and enhance better immune response in Indian major carp, L. rohita juveniles. • Dietary blue lotus (Nymphaea nouchali) flower (BLF) or leaf (BLL) promoted growth performance of Labeo rohita. • BLF or BLL showed hypoglycemic response. • BLF or BLL boosted immune response in Labeo rohita. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential application of hybrid anticancer molecules requires further investigation. There is a great interest in developing new site-specific anticancer agents able to efficiently destroy cancer cells with minimal toxic side effects. Serum proteins are known to play an important role as drug delivery system with important clinical applications. Hence, the conjugation of testo and testo-Pt(II) (two semi-synthetic testosterone derivatives) with human serum albumin HSA), bovine serum albumin (BSA) and beta-lactoglobulin ( β -LG) was investigated in aqueous solution at physiological pH. Multiple spectroscopic methods, thermodynamic analysis and modeling were used to determine the binding efficacy of these bioactive compounds to serum proteins. Drug-protein conjugation occurred via ionic contacts. BSA forms more stable conjugates than HSA and β -LG with the order of stability testo > testo-Pt(II). Major alterations of protein secondary structures were observed upon drug complexation. Serum proteins can be used to deliver these bioactive materials in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Yuanshi Shengmai Chenggu Tablet is used for treating the common orthopedic disease, hormone-induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) in China. However, its underlying mechanism and the changes induced in the treatment of ANFH remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, through the use of isobaric Tag for Relative and Absolute Quantitation and multiple reaction monitoring quantifications, corticosteroid-induced femoral head necrosis and the effects of treatment with Yuanshi Shengmai Chenggu Tablet were examined. The aim was to identify serum proteins, which may be potential serum markers for the early clinical diagnosis of ANFH, and maybe used to develop more rapid and convenient detection strategies. A total of five proteins were identified, comprising Ig mu chain C region, keratin, type I cytoskeletal 9, properdin, apolipoprotein A-IV, and IQ and AAA domain-containing protein 1. The expression levels of all five proteins were lower in ANFH and were higher following TCM treatment. These findings were confirmed using ELISA and western blot analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biomolecular interaction of a potential prototype drug phenolphthalein (PN) with the transport protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been investigated at physiological pH employing various spectroscopic techniques along with computational study. The effect of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) on PN-bound protein has also been investigated. The interesting phenomenon of all findings is the spontaneous exothermic binding of PN with serum albumin through static quenching mechanism. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔS°, ΔH° & ΔG°) have been justified by the detailed understanding of the binding affinity of PN with protein. The binding displacement measurements and Auto Dock-based docking simulation unravels the probable binding location of PN within the hydrophilic sub-domain IB close to Sudlow site I of BSA where Trp-134 is housed. Although β-CD induces a marginal structural loss of protein, it have played dominant roles to stripping of denaturant from PN-BSA assembles. This study has undertaken to unravel the effect of drug binding of protein so as to rationalize the applicability of the drug molecule as a therapeutic agent and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgound: Tuberculosis as a state of chronic inflammation impacts on haematologic functions of the body. Objectives: This study aimed at assessing iron parameters and serum protein levels of ninety tuberculosis patients aged fifteen to sixty years, enrolled from Dr Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria. Ninety apparently healthy individuals age and gendermatched served as control subjects. Methods: Packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, serum iron, total iron binding capacity, total protein, albumin and serum ferritin were determined using standard methods. Transferrin saturation, globulin concentration and albumin-globulin ratio were derived by calculation. Data were analysed using student T-test on SPSS version 20 software. Statistical significance was set at P-value less than 0.05. Results: Packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, serum iron, total iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation, albumin levels and albumin-globulin ratio of tuberculosis patients were found to be significantly lower while serum ferritin and globulin were significantly increased (p<0.05) as compared with control values. Serum ferritin improved towards control values as anti-tuberculosis therapy progressed. Conclusion: A reduction in haemoglobin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity and transferrin saturation and increase in serum ferritin as well as altered serum protein levels, occur in tuberculosis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have reviewed the conjugation of biogenic polyamines spermine (spm), spermidine (spmd) and synthetic polyamines 3,7,11,15-tetrazaheptadecane.4HCl (BE-333) and 3,7,11,15,19-pentazahenicosane.5HCl (BE-3333) with human serum albumin (HSA), bovine serum albumin (BSA) and milk beta-lactoglobulin (b-LG) in aqueous solution at physiological pH. The results of multiple spectroscopic methods and molecular modeling were analysed here and correlations between polyamine binding mode and protein structural changes were estabilished. Polyamine-protein bindings are mainly via hydrophilic and H-bonding contacts. BSA forms more stable conjugates than HSA and b-LG. Biogenic polyamines form more stable complexes than synthetic polyamines except in the case of b-LG, where the protein shows more hydrophobic character than HSA and BSA. The loading efficacies were 40–52%. Modeling showed the presence of several H-bonding systems, which stabilized polyamine-protein conjugates. Polyamine conjugation induced major alterations of serum protein conformations. The potential application of serum proteins in delivery of polyamines is evaluated here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]