Search

Solid-based residues (SBRs) of Cordyceps militaris are often considered as waste after the cultivation of the fruiting body. To demonstrate the value of this by-product, different ratios of two favorable green solvents (EtOH and water) were employed to optimize the yields of cordycepin (Cor) and adenosine (Ado) and investigate relevant activities of plant growth inhibition (allelopathy), antioxidants, and xanthine oxidase. The SBR extracts of 60% EtOH-40% water (W4) and 40% EtOH-60% water (W6) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity as well as yielded the optimum content of Cor and Ado. The W4 and Wt (hot water) exhibited maximum inhibitory effects on the growth of Raphanus sativus (radish), Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and two noxious weeds, Echinochloa crus-galli (barnyard grass) and Bidens pilosa (beggarticks). Furthermore, GC-MS scan analysis revealed the presence of 14 major compounds in the SBRs. W4 is the best solvent to optimize yields of Cor and Ado, as well as having the strongest levels of antioxidant activity, xanthine oxidase, and growth-inhibitory activity. This study reveals that SBRs are a potential source of medicinal and agricultural utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ecofriendly colloidal chitosan byproduct synthesized from crude chitosan was evaluated for its chronic toxicity against second instar larvae of Plutella xylostella L. by leaf dip bioassay. The consumption of 10000 ppm colloidal chitosan treated leaf caused 100% mortality after the 4th day, with least larval weight (0.02 mg). Whereas, the consumption of 8000 ppm treated leaves reduced the larval (0.65 mg), pupal (1.26 mg), and adult weights (0.75 mg), with 10% adult malformation and extended larval duration. This is compared to untreated larval duration of 10.66 days. Thus, colloidal chitosan exhibits chronic toxicity and growth inhibition effect on P. xylostella larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuscuta campestris Yunck. is a parasitic weed responsible for severe yield losses in crops worldwide. The selective control of this weed is scarce due to the difficult application of methods that kill the parasite without negatively affecting the infected crop. trans-Cinnamic acid is secreted by plant roots naturally into the rhizosphere, playing allelopathic roles in plant–plant communities, although its activity in C. campestris has never been investigated. In the search for natural molecules with phytotoxic activity against parasitic weeds, this work hypothesized that trans-cinnamic acid could be active in inhibiting C. campestris growth and that a study of a series of analogs could reveal key structural features for its growth inhibition activity. In the present structure–activity relationship (SAR) study, we determined in vitro the inhibitory activity of trans-cinnamic acid and 24 analogs. The results showed that trans-cinnamic acid's growth inhibition of C. campestris seedlings is enhanced in eight of its derivatives, namely hydrocinnamic acid, 3-phenylpropionaldehyde, trans-cinnamaldehyde, trans-4-(trifluoromethyl)cinnamic acid, trans-3-chlorocinnamic acid, trans-4-chlorocinnamic acid, trans-4-bromocinnamic acid, and methyl trans-cinnamate. Among the derivatives studied, the methyl ester derivative of trans-cinnamic acid was the most active compound. The findings of this SAR study provide knowledge for the design of herbicidal treatments with enhanced activity against parasitic weeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) is a widespread heavy metal pollutant that interferes with plant growth. In this study, we investigated the effects of Pb on the mechanical and chemical properties of cell walls and on the growth of coleoptiles of rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings grown in the air (on moistened filter paper) and underwater (submerged condition). Coleoptile growth of air-grown seedlings was reduced by 40% by the 3 mM Pb treatment, while that of water-grown ones was reduced by 50% by the 0.5 mM Pb. Although the effective concentration of Pb for growth inhibition of air-grown coleoptiles was much higher than that of water-grown ones, Pb treatment significantly decreased the mechanical extensibility of the cell wall in air- and water-grown coleoptiles, when it inhibited their growth. Among the chemical components of coleoptile cell walls, the amounts of cell wall polysaccharides per unit fresh weight and unit length of coleoptile, which represent the thickness of the cell wall, were significantly increased in response to the Pb treatment (3 mM and 0.5 mM Pb for air- and water-grown seedlings, respectively), while the levels of cell wall-bound diferulic acids (DFAs) and ferulic acids (FAs) slightly decreased. These results indicate that Pb treatment increased the thickness of the cell wall but not the phenolic acid-mediated cross-linking structures within the cell wall in air- and water-grown coleoptiles. The Pb-induced cell wall thickening probably causes the mechanical stiffening of the cell wall and thus decreases cell wall extensibility. Such modifications of cell wall properties may be associated with the inhibition of coleoptile growth. The results of this study provide a new finding that Pb-induced cell wall remodeling contributes to the regulation of plant growth under Pb stress conditions via the modification of the mechanical property of the cell wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental chemicals, which are known to impact offspring health, have become a public concern. Constitutive activated receptor (CAR) is activated by various environmental chemicals and participates in xenobiotic metabolism. Here, we described the effects of maternal exposure to the CAR-specific ligand 1,4-bis[2-(3,5-dichloropyridyloxy)] benzene (TCPOBOP, TC) on offspring health outcomes. Maternal TC exposure exhibited a stronger inhibition of body weight in 3-week-old and 8-week-old first-generation (F1) offspring female mice compared to controls. Further, maternal TC exposure obtained a strong increase in hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme expression in 3-week-old female mice that persisted into 8-week-old adulthood. Interestingly, we observed distorted intestinal morphological features in 8-week-old F1 female mice in the TC-exposed group. Moreover, maternal TC exposure triggered a loss of intestinal barrier integrity by reducing the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins. Accordingly, maternal exposure to TC down-regulated serum triglyceride levels as well as decreased the expression of intestinal lipid uptake and transport marker genes. Mechanistically, maternal TC exposure activated the intestinal inflammatory response and disrupted the antioxidant system in the offspring female mice, thereby impeding the intestinal absorption of nutrients and seriously threatening offspring health. Altogether, these findings highlight that the effects of maternal TC exposure on offspring toxicity could not be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, sulfamethoxazole (SMX) has been widely used and frequently detected in various water bodies. In order to study the developmental toxicity of SMX to zebrafish ( Danio rerio), embryos within 3 hours after fertilization (hpf) were treated with different concentrations (CK: 0 μg·L-1, S4: 4 μg·L-1, S40: 40 μg·L-1, S400: 400 μg·L-1 ) of SMX solution until 120 hpf. The hatchability of zebrafish embryos, the mortality rate, heart rate, body length and malformation rate of larvae and other developmental parameters were observed. Besides, the contents of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and the transcriptional levels of genes involved in GH/IGF-axis in zebrafish were detected. The results showed that exposure to 40 μg·L-1 and 400 μg·L-1 of SMX significantly resulted in increased mortality and malformation (pericardium cyst, spinal curvature, tail deformity, etc.), and shortened body length. SMX stress exhibited no significant effects on the hatchability of zebrafish, but decreased the heart rates of embryos and larvae. In addition, under SMX exposure, the levels of GH and IGF-1 in larval fish were significantly increased, while SMX exposure down-regulated the transcription of several genes along GH/IGF-axis, including gh1 (0.30-, 0.17- and 0.10-fold), ghrb (0.74-, 0.36- and 0.39-fold), igf1(0.75-, 0.23- and 0.33-fold) and igf1ra(0.49-, 0.22- and 0.72-fold). It seemed that the response of hormones had a delay compared with the transcriptional change of genes. The current results indicate that SMX induces embryo developmental toxicity in zebrafish, and may inhibit the early growth of zebrafish via slowing heart beat and/or interfering with GH/IGF axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The effect of farnesol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, on the production of laccases by Trametes versicolor and Pycnoporus sanguineus in pineapple waste solid-state fermentation was evaluated. Extracellular laccase production reached a maximum of 77.88 ± 5.62 U/g (236% above control) in farnesol-induced cultures of T. versicolor on the 17th day, whereas in a similar P. sanguineus culture, a maximal laccase activity of 130.95 ± 2.20 U/g (159% increase) was obtained on the 17th day. A single 45 KDa laccase was produced by both fungi under the influence of farnesol. These and other data allow us to conclude that farnesol acted as an inducer of the same form of laccase in both fungi. Farnesol disfavored fungal growth by increasing the lag phase, but it also clearly improved the oxidative state of the cultures. Contrary to the results obtained previously in submerged cultures, farnesol did not promote hyperbranching in the fungal mycelia. This is the first demonstration that farnesol is an excellent inducer of laccases in T. versicolor and P. sanguineus in solid-state cultivation. In quantitative terms, the results can be regarded as an excellent starting point for developing industrial or at least pre-industrial procedures to produce laccases using T. versicolor and P sanguineus under the stimulus of farnesol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osmanthus fragrans Lour. has been cultivated for more than 2500 years because of the fragrance and color of the flowers. The flowers and roots have been used in tea, liquors, foods, and traditional Chinese medicine. The species contains more than 180 compounds including terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and sterols. However, there has been limited information available on the allelopathic properties and allelopathic substances of O. fragrans. We investigated the allelopathy and allelopathic substances of O. fragrans and Osmanthus heterophyllus (G.Don) P.S. Green, as well as Osmanthus × fortunei Carrière, which is the hybrid species between O. fragrans and O. heterophyllus. The leaf extracts of O. fragrans, O. heterophyllus, and O. × fortunei suppressed the growth of cress (Lepidium sativum L.), alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), Lolium multiflorum Lam., and Vulpia myuros (L.) C.C.Gmel with the extract concentration dependently. The extract of the hybrid species O. × fortune was the most active among the extracts. The main allelopathic substances of O. × fortunei and O. fragrans were isolated and identified as (+)-pinoresinol and 10-acetoxyligustroside, respectively. (+)-Pinoresinol was also found in the fallen leaves of O. × fortunei. Both compounds showed an allelopathic activity on the growth of cress and L. multiflorum. On the other hand, several allelopathic substances including (+)-pinoresinol may be involved in the allelopathy of O. heterophyllus. O. fragrans, O. heterophyllus, and O. × fortunei are evergreen trees. but their senescent leaves fall and cover the soil under the trees. It is possible that those allelopathic substances are liberated through the decomposition process of the leaves into their rhizosphere soil, and that they accumulate in the soil and provide a competitive advantage to the species through the inhibition of the growth of the neighboring competing plants. Therefore, the leaves of these Osmanthus species are allelopathic and potentially useful for weed management options in some agriculture settings to reduce commercial herbicide dependency for the developing sustainable agriculture systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exogenous application of ethylene or 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), the biosynthetic precursor for ethylene, to plants decreases the capacity of the cell wall to extend, thereby inhibiting stem elongation. In this study, the mechanism by which the extensibility of cell walls decreases in ACC-treated azuki bean epicotyls was studied. ACC decreased the total extensibility of cell walls, and such a decrease was due to the decrease in irreversible extensibility. ACC increased the molecular mass of xyloglucans but decreased the activity of xyloglucan-degrading enzymes. The expression of VaXTHS4, which only exhibits hydrolase activity toward xyloglucans, was downregulated by ACC treatment, whereas that of VaXTH1 or VaXTH2, which exhibits only transglucosylase activity toward xyloglucans, was not affected by ACC treatment. The suppression of xyloglucan-degrading activity by downregulating VaXTHS4 expression may be responsible for the increase in the molecular mass of xyloglucan. Our results suggest that the modification of xyloglucan metabolism is necessary to decrease cell wall extensibility, thereby inhibiting the elongation growth of epicotyls in ACC-treated azuki bean seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flaxseed essential oil extracted by hydrodistillation was analyzed for its anticancer effects on A549 lung cancer cells. Phytochemicals were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The cytotoxicity effect was analyzed using Trypan blue, MTT, Clonogenic, DNA fragmentation, and wound scratch assays. Seventeen compounds with anticancer potency were identified. The cytotoxicity increased with increasing concentrations and inhibited migration of the cancer cells. Smeared DNA in gel and increased OD values compared to intact control DNA were also possible because of the phytochemicals in the essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The response of phytoplankton and its satellite bacteria to various concentrations (0.01%–10% v/v) of ethanol is studied. To elucidate the effect of ethanol, single-strains of phytoplankton (SSP) culture, pure strains of satellite bacteria isolated from nonaxenic SSP cultures, and Escherichia coli were screened. Results indicate that ethanol could promote the growth and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) of SSP at 0.01% and the growth of satellite bacteria at 0.01%–1%. Nevertheless, ethanol inhibited the growth and Fv/Fm of SSP at 0.1%–1%, and killed bacteria and SSP at 10% concentration. Further investigation on a satellite bacterium (Mameliella alba) revealed that ethanol promotes growth by serving as a growth stimulant rather than a metabolic carbon source. The 16S rRNA gene amplicon indicated that all nonaxenic SSP cultures harbor distinct satellite bacteria communities where the SSP culture of Skeletonema costatum, Phaeodactylum tricornutum, and Dunaliella bardawil were dominated by bacteria genera of Marivita (∼80%), Dinoroseobacter (∼47%), and Halomonas (∼87%), respectively, indicating that every SSP cultures have their own distinct satellite bacterial community. The bacteria family Rhodobacteraceae was dominant in the two marine diatoms, whereas Halomonadaceae was dominant in the saline green microalga. Compared to their respective controls, the supply of 0.5% ethanol to SSP cultures promoted the growth of the satellite bacteria but did not cause a significant difference in species composition of satellite bacteria. Therefore, a low concentration of ethanol can promote the growth of bacteria in a non-selective way. This study enriched our knowledge about the effect of ethanol on aquatic microbes and provided a baseline for basic and applied biotechnological research in the aquatic environment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bacterial toxin–antitoxin systems are each composed of a toxin, which severely inhibits bacterial cells growth, and a specific neutralizing antitoxin. Some toxin–antitoxin systems are functional when expressed in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. For instance, the expression of the relE toxin gene leads to a strong growth defect in yeast, whereas the expression of the relB antitoxin gene restores growth. Nevertheless, there is no available data regarding the required expression levels of each component of the relBE system leading to these growth phenotypes, neither their effects on cell viability. Here we used a double inducible plasmid-based system to independently modulate the relative amounts of relB and relE, and performed growth and gene expression analyses. These results allow us to correlate growth phenotypes to the expression levels of the toxin and the antitoxin, and to determine the levels necessary to observe either a strong growth inhibition or a normal growth. We also showed that the relE expression produces cell cycle progression defect without affecting cell viability. These results provide a detailed characterization of the functioning of the relBE system in S. cerevisiae, and open applicative perspectives of yeast growth control by bacterial toxin–antitoxin systems. These results provide a detailed characterization of the functioning of a bacterial toxin–antitoxin system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and open applicative perspectives of yeast growth control by bacterial toxin–antitoxin systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interest in microorganisms to produce microbial lipids at large-scale processes has increased during the last decades. Rhodosporidium toruloides-1588 could be an efficient option for its ability to simultaneously utilize five- and six-carbon sugars. Nevertheless, one of the most important characteristics that any strain needs to be considered or used at an industrial scale is its capacity to grow in substrates with high sugar concentrations. In this study, the effect of high sugar concentrations and the effect of ammonium sulfate were tested on R. toruloides-1588 and its capacity to grow and accumulate lipids using undetoxified wood hydrolysates. Batch fermentations showed a catabolic repression effect on R. toruloides-1588 growth at sugar concentrations of 120 g/L. The maximum lipid accumulation was 8.2 g/L with palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and lignoceric acids as predominant fatty acids in the produced lipids. Furthermore, R. toruloides-1588 was able to utilize up to 80% of the total xylose content. Additionally, this study is the first to report the effect of using high xylose concentrations on the growth, sugar utilization, and lipid accumulation by R. toruloides-1588. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. With the characteristics such as low toxicity, high total surface, ability to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), as one of the metallic nanoparticles, have been chosen as an antibacterial agent to treat various skin infections. The present study was aimed to determine the antibacterial potential of ZnO NPs on Bacillus subtilis, the Gram-positive bacterium that can cause skin and wound infections. Methods. B. subtilis was exposed to 5 to 150 μg/mL of ZnO NPs for 24 h. The parameters employed to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of ZnO NPs were the growth inhibitory effect on B. subtilis, the surface interaction of ZnO NPs on the bacterial cell wall, and also the morphological alterations in B. subtilis induced by ZnO NPs. Results. The results demonstrated a significant (p <0.05) inhibition of ZnO NPs on B. subtilis growth and it was in a dose-dependent manner for all the tested concentrations of ZnO NPs from 5 to 150 μg/ mL at 24 h. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectrum confirmed the involvement of polysaccharides and polypeptides of bacterial cell wall in surface binding of ZnO NPs on bacteria. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize the morphological changes B. subtilis illustrated several surface alterations such as distortion of cell membrane, roughening of cell surface, aggregation and bending of cells, as well as, the cell rupture upon interacting with ZnO NPs for 24 h. Conclusion. The results indicated the potential of ZnO NPs to be used as an antibacterial agent against B. subtilis. The findings of the present study might bring insights to incorporate ZnO NPs as an antibacterial agent in the topical applications against the infections caused by B. subtilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glyphosate-based herbicides are the most widely agrochemicals used in the world. This toxic compound reaches aquatic ecosystems and can affect microalgae, which are the basis of the trophic web and the main primary producers in these environments. We tested the sensitivity of two species of green algae (Chlorophyta) to a glyphosate-based herbicide (Roundup Transorb) and the effect of contamination history in population rescue. Strains of Desmodesmus communis and Pseudopediastrum boryanum were tested in isolation and in co-occurrence in a two-step experiment, with three and 10 days each, respectively. In the first step, we exposed populations of the two species to Roundup Transorb at 0, 350, 500, and 1000 μg‧L-1 glyphosate. Next, we transferred aliquots of each treatment to a new media where 20,000 μg‧L-1 of the glyphosate-based herbicide was added. Growth inhibition at the end of Step 1 was dose-dependent regardless of species and whether they were isolated or combined. Rescue after exposure to 20,000 μg‧L-1 of the glyphosate-based herbicide for three and 10 days was more successful for populations previously exposed to intermediate concentrations of 350 and 500 μg‧L-1. We suggest that these concentrations triggered a process that increased algal tolerance to the glyphosate-based herbicide. In addition, neither the species nor the fact that they were isolated or combined influenced glyphosate-based herbicide toxicity, at least for the concentrations tested in this study., (© The Author(s) 2025. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori infects almost half of the World population. Although many infected people are symptom free, the microorganism can still cause a variety of gastrointestinal disorders and gastric adenocarcinoma. It is considered a priority pathogen for the development of new antibiotics by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Many virulence factors of H. pylori have been described. This paper will on H. pylori Urease (HPU)., Area Covered: This paper will discuss the (patho)physiology and structure of HPU. In addition, urease inhibitors with known activity against the HPU or inhibitors that show H. pylori growth inhibition will be discussed., Expert Opinion: Increase in selectivity, affinity and potency of HPU inhibitors can be achieved by the design of compounds that interact with distinct regions within the enzyme active site. Especially, covalent interactions seem promising as they clearly effect the dose requirement of the drug candidate.

Domestic poultry is a natural reservoir of Campylobacter, the host–pathogen interaction being predominantly asymptomatic. This study investigated whether chickens remain asymptomatic partly because of lactic acid bacteria (LAB).

Background and Purpose: Candida albicans (C. albicans) is the most common human pathogen owing to the most virulence factors. It seems that extracellular hydrolytic enzymes play a key role in C. albicans pathogenicity. The present study aimed to assess the susceptibility and enzymatic activity of pathogenic C. albicans isolates exposed to the Syzygium aromaticum (S. aromaticum) essential oil.Materials and Methods: S. aromaticum oil was characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The broth microdilution technique (CLSI, M27-A3) was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of test compounds. Furthermore, before and after treatment with S. aromaticum essential oil, the yeasts were analyzed regarding the proteinase (Prz), hemolysin (Hz), and phospholipase (Phz) production/activity.Results: β-caryophyllene (12.76%) was found to be the major constituent in the essential oil after eugenol (84.64%). Only one isolate of C. albicans showed the antifungal resistance to fluconazole. All isolates were susceptible to S. aromaticum essential oil with MIC of 625-1250 μg/ml. S. aromaticum oil represented the best antifungal effectagainst C. albicans at MIC 1000 μg/ml. The mean±SD enzyme activity of C. albicans not exposed to S. aromaticum essential oil was obtained at 0.55±0.03, 0.73±0.04, and 0.61±0.05 for proteinase, hemolysin, and phospholipase, respectively. The activities of these enzymes were reduced significantly (P

Objective: To study the biological properties of plants of the genus Allium and their correlation with antimicrobial and fungicidal activity depending on the altitude of plant growth. Methods: Seeds, leaves and bulbs of widespread wild and endemic species of the genus Allium growing in various regions of the Republic of Tajikistan were the objects of the study. The antimicrobial activity of the obtained extracts was studied against standard museum microorganisms (test strains): Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 4929), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 4930), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4927), Escherichia coli (ATCC 4928). Antifungal activity was studied against Candida species. Results: Correlation of varying strength was discovered between the content of biocomponents with antimicrobial and fungicidal activity, the altitude of plant growth and place of its collection. The content of total polyphenols and the antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from various parts of the plants varied over a wide range. In some cases, there were direct correlations of varying strength between the content of polyphenols, antioxidative, antimicrobial and fungicidal properties of the plants. Conclusion: This study showed the insignificant correlations between the content of biocomponents and antimicrobial, and fungicidal properties of the studied types of onions, which did not depend on the growing zone.

In konventionellen Ackerbausystemen werden derzeit überwiegend Herbizide zur Kontrolle von Unkräutern eingesetzt. Der Einsatz von Herbiziden wird wegen unerwünschter Wirkungen auf abiotische Ressourcen sowie die Biodiversität kritisch diskutiert. Um ihren Einsatz zu reduzieren, müssen mittelfristig alternative Lösungen gefunden werden. Als Alternative kommt UV-C Strahlung in Frage. Diese wirkt ab einer bestimmten Dosis irreversibel zellschädigend, wodurch das Wachstum von Pflanzen reduziert wird. Der wichtigste Parameter der UV-C Applikation ist die Dosis, die sich aus der Strahlungsstärke des Strahlfeldes und der Dauer der Bestrahlung ergibt. Ziel der Untersuchungen war es, eine UV-C Dosis zur Unkrautkontrolle zu finden, mit der das Wachstums von Unkrautpflanzen beeinträchtigt wird. Am Beispiel von Raphanus sativus wird eine Dosis-abhängige Wachstumshemmung der UV-C Strahlung gezeigt. Die höchste Reduktion im Vergleich zur unbehandelten Kontrolle betrug 93 % der Trockenmasse. Neben der UV-C Dosis hatte auch der zeitliche Abstand zwischen wiederholten Bestrahlungen einen Einfluss auf die Biomasseentwicklung der Pflanzen.

Sodium alginate (ALG) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) are two polysaccharides that have a wide range of applications, which could lead to accidental pollution of the environment, making the assessment of their potential ecotoxicity imperative. The present study assesses the effects of ALG and CMC on the growth response of common duckweed (Lemna minor L.). The results emphasize that both polysaccharides can be classified as practically nontoxic based on their EC50 values, with ALG having a relatively higher toxicity compared to CMC. It was also observed that high doses of 1, 5 and 10 mg mL-1 of the two polysaccharides produced growth inhibitory effects against common duckweed. The toxicity of biopolymers against common duckweed, measured as EC50 values, seems to be correlated to the hydrophobicity of the monomers building the polymer. The EC50 values increase linearly with increasing water solubility (log S) values and decrease linearly with the lipophilicity (log P) values.

The soluble and non-digestible longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) polysaccharides (LP) with Se content less than 0.01 g/kg were extracted and selenylated chemically with the HNO3–Na2SeO3 system, to prepare two selenylated products namely SeLP1 and SeLP2 with enhanced Se contents of 1.46 and 4.79 g/kg, respectively. LP, SeLP1, and SeLP2 were then measured and compared for their saccharide features and bioactivity in human colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells. Compared with LP, both SeLP1 and SeLP2 contained more neutral saccharides, but showed reduced uronic acid content and undetectable sulfate. Moreover, SeLP1 and especially SeLP2 in the cells showed higher activities than LP, reflected by their enhanced capacity to inhibit cell growth, alter cell morphology, and suppress cell colony formation. Compared with LP, SeLP1 and especially SeLP2 were also more capable of promoting intracellular reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ levels, causing mitochondrial membrane potential loss, or inducing cell apoptosis via up- and down-regulating the eight apoptosis-related genes and proteins. Overall, the performed chemical selenylation of LP resulted in obvious changes in these saccharide features and simultaneously enhanced the anti-cancer activity of the selenylated products against the cells clearly, while a higher selenylation extent of the selenylated products consistently caused higher activity towards the cells. The results of this study thus highlighted that this chemical selenylation is applicable when aiming to enhance the bioactivities of natural polysaccharides.

We investigated the efficacy of a small molecule ASR-600, an analog of Urolithin A (Uro A), on blocking androgen receptor (AR) and its splice variant AR-variant 7 (AR-V7) signaling in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). ASR-600 effectively suppressed the growth of AR+ CRPC cells by inhibiting AR and AR-V7 expressions; no effect was seen in AR− CRPC and normal prostate epithelial cells. Biomolecular interaction assays revealed ASR-600 binds to the N-terminal domain of AR, which was further confirmed by immunoblot and subcellular localization studies. Molecular studies suggested that ASR-600 promotes the ubiquitination of AR and AR-V7 resulting in the inhibition of AR signaling. Microsomal and plasma stability studies suggest that ASR-600 is stable, and its oral administration inhibits tumor growth in CRPC xenografted castrated and non-castrated mice. In conclusion, our data suggest that ASR-600 enhances AR ubiquitination in both AR+ and AR-V7 CRPC cells and inhibits their growth in vitro and in vivo models.

Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are well-known opportunistic pathogens that frequently coexist in chronic wounds and cystic fibrosis. The exoproducts of P. aeruginosa have been shown to affect the growth and pathogenicity of S. aureus, but the detailed mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of extracellular vesicles from P. aeruginosa (PaEVs) on the growth of S. aureus. We found that PaEVs inhibited the S. aureus growth independently of iron chelation and showed no bactericidal activity. This growth inhibitory effect was also observed with methicillin-resistant S. aureus but not with Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterococcus faecalis, S. Typhimurium, E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, or Candida albicans, suggesting that the growth inhibitory effect of PaEVs is highly specific for S. aureus. To better understand the detailed mechanism, the difference in protein production of S. aureus between PaEV-treated and non-treated groups was further analyzed. The results revealed that lactate dehydrogenase 2 and formate acetyltransferase enzymes in the pyruvate fermentation pathway were significantly reduced after PaEV treatment. Likewise, the expression of ldh2 gene for lactate dehydrogenase 2 and pflB gene for formate acetyltransferase in S. aureus was reduced by PaEV treatment. In addition, this inhibitory effect of PaEVs was abolished by supplementation with pyruvate or oxygen. These results suggest that PaEVs inhibit the growth of S. aureus by suppressing the pyruvate fermentation pathway. This study reported a mechanism of PaEVs in inhibiting S. aureus growth which may be important for better management of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa co-infections.

Isoamyl alcohol is a clear, unpleasantly odorous, colorless liquid of higher alcohol that emits a fruity aroma when heavily diluted. It has received much attention in recent years as a new fuel with a high energy density. Isoamyl alcohol can be produced industrially by microbial fermentation. Still, its toxicity to host cells has limited its potential for industrial production, and the molecular mechanism of its toxic effects has not yet been elucidated. In this study, RNA-Seq technology was used to analyze the transcripts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae under normal conditions and in the presence of isoamyl alcohol (0.5 g/L and 2.5 g/L). The results showed that the expression of the cell wall (CCW12, BGL2, NCW2 and SUN4), cell membrane (ELO1, ERG2, FAA1, and OPI3), translation and other structural genes were significantly down-regulated. The expression of genes related to ATP biosynthesis, NADPH biosynthesis (ZWF1), and metal ion transport (PMC1) proteins were up-regulated. Strains with key genes knocked out were cultured without isoamyl alcohol. Combined results suggested that isoamyl alcohol may affect cell wall stability and cell membrane fluidity, and the expression of genes related to ion homeostasis and energy production may play a protective role against isoamyl alcohol stress. By maintaining cell wall stability/membrane fluidity under isoamyl alcohol pressure, improving certain ion homeostasis, and generating energy/NADPH, it is possible to overcome the toxicity of isoamyl alcohol in industrial fermentation processes to a certain extent.

The high use of additives containing zinc borate and their limited solubility in water both lead to its persistence and accumulation in biological systems. On the other hand, soluble forms of boron are easily available to plant roots and are taken up by plants. There are no ecotoxicological data available for zinc borate, the industrial utilization of which is widespread. Therefore, the potential toxicity of zinc borate and its dissociated compounds was evaluated. Based on two different ecotoxicology tests, their effect on plant growth was studied. Firstly, the impact on Lemna minor growth was investigated, including the effect on pigment content. Secondly, the inhibition of the root growth of higher plant species Sinapis alba (mustard), Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and Trifolium pretense (clover) was measured. The growth inhibition test on L. minor was more complex and sensitive compared to the plant seed germination test. Already low concentrations (10 mg/L) of ZnO, B2O3 and Zn3BO6 led to a decrease in frond growth and to an inhibition of the conversion of chlorophyll a to chlorophyll b. These results suggested that the stress caused by these additives caused damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. The highest inhibition of frond growth was detected in fronds treated with B2O3 (92–100%). In ZnO and Zn3BO6, the inhibition of frond growth was between 38 and 77%, with Zn3BO6 being slightly more toxic. In the seed germination test, the most sensitive species was lettuce, the growth of which was inhibited by 57, 83 and 53% in ZnO, B2O3 and Zn3BO6 treatments, respectively. However, the inhibitory effect on each plant was different. In lettuce and clover, the seed germination and root elongation decreased with increasing element concentrations. In contrast, in mustard, low concentrations of ZnO and Zn3BO6 supported the growth of roots. For that reason, more complex tests are essential to evaluate the additive toxicity in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are widely used in biomedical applications due to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The objective of the present study was to determine the antifungal activity of ZnO NPs against the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The turbidity test results showed a significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent growth inhibitory effect of ZnO NPs on S. cerevisiae as the growth inhibition increased from 7.04 ± 0.64 to 70.30 ± 3.19% as the concentration of ZnO NPs increased from 5 to 150 μg/mL. The scanning microscopy images evidenced the morphological alterations such as regional invagination, pitting, cracks, wrinkles, and cell wall rupture in the yeast cells treated with ZnO NPs. In addition, the FTIR spectrum revealed the possible involvement of hydroxyl, alkene, amides, carbonyl, and phosphate groups from polysaccharides, polypeptides, phospholipids, and ergosterol of the yeast cells wall for binding of ZnO NPs on the cell surface. The present study has demonstrated the antifungal activity of ZnO NPs on S. cerevisiae through growth inhibition and the morphological damages resulting from the treatment of ZnO NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the antifungal properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on Candida albicans ATCC 1023 through the study of growth inhibitory effects of ZnO NPs on C. albicans and the effect of the nanoparticles on the surface of C. albicans. The growth inhibitory effects of ZnO NPs (5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 µg/mL) on C. albicans at 24 h were determined through the reduction in suspension turbidity and colony count. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was carried out to establish the functional groups associated with the interaction of ZnO NPs on the yeast cell wall, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis was utilised to determine the surface accumulation of ZnO NPs on the yeast cells and the consequential morphological alterations on C. albicans. The results exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) growth inhibition for all tested concentrations except for 5 µg/mL of ZnO NPs at 24 h as compared to negative control. FTIR analysis revealed the possible involvement of alcohol, amide A, methyl, alkynes, amide I and II, and phosphate groups from the cell wall of C. albicans in the surface interaction with ZnO NPs. Finally, SEM-EDX revealed a considerable accumulation of ZnO NPs on the yeast cells and consequential morphological alterations on C. albicans, including the damage of hyphae, pitting of the cell wall, invagination, and rupture of the cell membrane. The current study demonstrated that ZnO NPs possess antifungal properties against C. albicans in a dose-dependent manner, and the surface interaction of ZnO NPs on fungal cells caused alterations in cell membrane integrity that might have resulted in cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of tetracyclines in human and veterinary medicine causes contamination in the environment that could contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria or competition between species of phytoplankton. In this study, Microcystis aeruginosa (a bloom-forming cyanobacterium) and Chlamydomonas microsphaera (common green alga) were selected to test the effects of different concentrations of tetracyclines (tetracycline and oxytetracycline) in monoculture and co-culture. The results showed that compared with monoculture, the cell growth of C. microsphaera decreased significantly in co-culture treated with different concentrations of tetracycline and oxytetracycline. The ratios of inhibition of M. aeruginosa exposed to 0.1, 2, and 10 mg L−1 of tetracycline varied between 17.7 and 31.37% in co-culture compared with monoculture, while the cell growth of M. aeruginosa was enhanced by treatment with 0.1, 2, and 7.25 mg L−1 of oxytetracycline in co-culture. However, the cell growth of C. microsphaera was significantly inhibited by all the treatments in co-culture. With the treatment of tetracycline, the specific growth rate of M. aeruginosa was 0.36 to 0.31 day−1 in monoculture and co-culture, while that of C. microsphaera ranged from 0.38 to 0.26 day−1 in monoculture, and it decreased from 0.25 day−1 (0 mg L−1) to 0.08 day−1 (10 mg L−1) in co-culture. With the treatment of oxytetracycline, the specific growth rate of M. aeruginosa was stimulated in co-culture, while that of C. microsphaera was significantly inhibited in co-culture compared with monoculture. Therefore, although M. aeruginosa significantly inhibited C. microsphaera in co-culture with the tetracycline-free treatment, the competitive advantage of M. aeruginosa expanded following the addition of low or high concentrations of tetracyclines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of chiral β‐Aryl‐chalcogenium azide compounds in vitro against the human bladder cancer cell line 5637. The cell growth inhibition was evaluated by MTT assay. The apoptosis induction and cellular viability were measured by DAPI staining and live/dead assay, respectively. Also, gene expression of pro‐apoptotic, anti‐apoptotic and oxidative stress pathways were investigated by qRT‐PCR. Finally, in silico molecular docking between the compounds and proteins involved in apoptotic and cell growth pathways was performed as well. Our results showed that 5c [(S)‐(2‐azido‐1‐phenyl‐3‐telurophenyl)‐propane)] and 5j [(S)‐(2‐azido‐1‐phenyl‐3‐teluro‐p‐methoxy‐phenyl)‐propane)] compounds presented concentration‐dependent cytotoxicity. Apoptosis analysis showed chromatin condensation in 13 % and 20.3 % of cells treated with compounds 5 c and 5 j, respectively, compared to untreated cells (2.34 %). Moreover, 5 c increased the relative expression of p53, Caspase‐3, Caspase‐9, SOD and CAT genes. Meanwhile, 5 j increased the expression of p53, p21, Caspase‐3, Caspase‐9, Bax, SOD, CAT, GPx, GR and iNOS genes. Finally, molecular docking showed that 5 c has a binding affinity to Survivin, Bcl‐XL, RSK2, SGK1, while 5 j showed binding affinity to the SGK1 protein only. These findings suggest that β‐Aryl‐chalcogenium azide compounds could have a potential antitumoral effect in bladder cancer cells in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glacial debris flows along Palong River is large and frequency. Tianmo Gully is a primary tributary on the left bank of Palong River. Glacial debris flows broke out many times in history, repeatedly blocking the river and forming a about 1.5 km-long barrier lake. The frequency and volume of glacial debris flows is of great significance to the disaster prevention and reduction in mountainous areas. Based on the method of dendrochronology and the analysis of damaged tissue, growth inhibition and release of tree rings, the temporal-spatial distribution of debris flow events in the past 60 years was reconstructed. From the intensity of tree growth disturbance, the inundate area of debris flow and gully erosion process were discussed. The relationship between the occurrence time of debris flow and daily rainfall and temperature was further analyzed by weighted index Wit. The results show that debris flows broke out in 1965, 1970, 1976, 2007, 2010 and 2018. The growth release and inhibition of tree rings lag behind the debris flow event for 1~3 years, and is directly proportional to the debris flows volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that plants activate defense responses at the cost of growth. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. The phytohormones salicylic acid (SA) and gibberellin (GA) promote defense response and growth, respectively. Here we show that SA inhibits GA signaling to repress plant growth. We found that the SA receptor NPR1 interacts with the GA receptor GID1. Further biochemical studies revealed that NPR1 functions as an adaptor of ubiquitin E3 ligase to promote the polyubiquitination and degradation of GID1, which enhances the stability of DELLA proteins, the negative regulators of GA signaling. Genetic analysis suggested that NPR1, GID1, and DELLA proteins are all required for the SA-mediated growth inhibition. Collectively, our study not only uncovers a novel regulatory mechanism of growth–defense trade-off but also reveals the interaction of hormone receptors as a new mode of hormonal crosstalk. The phytohormones salicylic acid (SA) and gibberellin (GA) promote defense response and growth, respectively. In this study, the authors show that the salicylic acid receptor NPR1 functions as an adaptor of ubiquitin E3 ligase to mediate the polyubiquitination and degradation of the gibberellin receptor GID1, leading to inhibition of gibberellin signaling and thus plant growth. This study reveals that hormone cross talk can occur at the receptor level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of a silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)-cow-dung combination on Abelmoschus esculentus physiology, enzyme activities, heavy metal bioaccumulation, and micronutrients were investigated. A. esculentus seedlings were nurtured with foliar application of water, 0.75 mg/L each of AgNPs, cow-dung and AgNPs-cow dung till maturity. AgNPs-cow dung inhibited root and shoot lengths by 12.9% and 24.8%, respectively as opposed to elongation recorded for individual application compared to the control. In contrast to the promotion of photosynthesis, enzyme and antioxidant activities by individual applications, AgNPs-cow dung suppressed more than 50% of these parameters. Implied toxicities of AgNPs-cow dung on A. esculentus manifested in increased malondialdehyde contents with concomitant higher bioaccumulation factor of heavy metals. Cow-dung and AgNPs each stimulated A. esculentus activities in different ways, but their combination was inhibitory, which may be ascribed to the transformed AgNPs in cow-dung and relative availability of toxic metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira spp., with global implications primarily in tropical countries. However, the mechanisms of leptospiral pathogenesis are still not fully known and not all virulence factors (VFs) have been identified. Budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a popular eukaryotic model which has been used to identify bacterial VFs that target the conserved eukaryotic cellular processes. In this study, we screened for putative VFs of L. interrogans, one of the dominant species causing leptospirosis, by expressing candidate VFs in budding yeast and examining their impact on yeast growth in a high-throughput format. From an initial selection of 288 L. interrogans ORFs, we screened 226 candidate VFs in a yeast growth inhibition assay and identified nine putative VFs in four categories (adhesion, enzymatic, host structure interaction, and immunogenicity). Notably, LIC10280 was highly toxic even when expressed at low copies. We also observed specific subcellular localization for several putative VFs. This study shows that there are still potential L. interrogans VFs that await discovery. Key points: • High-throughput cloning and expression of leptospiral proteins in yeast. • Heterologous expression of nine leptospiral proteins inhibited yeast growth. • An uncharacterized protein LIC10280 maybe a putative VF for further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The close balance between Cutibacterium acnes and the skin flora, particularly between C. acnes phylotypes, has been suggested to play an important role in the onset of acne. C. acnes has been classified into ribotypes (RTs) based on polymorphisms in its 16S rRNA sequence, with RT4 and RT5 being associated with the onset of acne and RT6 with healthy skin. Aims: The present study investigated the impact of erythritol on the growth of C. acnes strains classified into different RTs and attempted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects. Methods: Culturing tests were performed on several RTs of C. acnes with or without erythritol. A transcriptional analysis of HM554 (RT6) and HM514 (RT5) was also conducted. Results: The growth of RT2 and RT6, RTs associated with healthy skin, was significantly promoted in a medium containing 10% (W/W) erythritol, whereas that of RT1, RT3, RT4, RT5, and RT8, RTs associated with the development of acne, was inhibited. A RNA‐seq analysis of HM554 showed that the expression of six genes (EIGs) potentially involved in carbohydrate metabolism was strongly induced by the presence of 10% erythritol (Log2 fold change >2.0 and p‐value <0.05). A comparative expression analysis by qPCR revealed that EIGs other than g3pD were strongly induced by erythritol in HM514, similar to HM554, whereas g3pD was only slightly induced. Conclusion: Erythritol inhibited the growth of RTs associated with acne and promoted that of RTs associated with healthy skin. The enzyme encoded by g3pD may play an important role in the metabolism of erythritol and the dissolution of its growth inhibitory effects on C. acnes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) belongs to the Solanaceae family and is economically one of the most important vegetable crops in Iran after the potato, cultivated all year but threatened by a large number of plant pathogens. One of the most significant diseases affecting this plant is tomato early blight, caused by various species of Alternaria. To date, chemical fungicides have been the only effective method of controlling this disease. Given the damaging effects of chemical pesticides on human and environmental health, as well as food safety, this study aimed to compare the inhibitory effects of savory, garlic, thyme, fennel, and rosemary essential oils on tomato early blight disease to that of a fungicide, Mancozeb+Metalaxy, under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Materials and Methods Plant essential oils were extracted using a Clevenger apparatus and, after dehydration, utilized at 50, 150, and 250 μL/L concentrations by mixing with cultural media in Petri dishes. The growth inhibitory effect of plant essential oils was assessed by measuring the fungal colony's growth diameter and calculating the amount of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) associated with each essential oil. Moreover, the effect of plant essential oils on tomato early blight control was evaluated at a 750 μL/L concentration by spraying tomato plants with 3 to 5 leaves under greenhouse conditions. A chemical mixture containing Mancozeb and Metalaxyl was used as a positive control to compare its antifungal effects versus plant essential oils. Results Statistical analysis using Duncan's multiple-range test revealed a significant difference in all treatments at the 5 percent level. A. alternata growth diameter measurements showed that the lowest colony growth diameter was associated with 250 μL/L of savory essential oil with 100% inhibition. At a concentration of 50 μL/L, rosemary essential oil inhibited fungus growth by 6.35%, resulting in the highest average growth diameter. Accordingly, among the studied essential oils, savory exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect, while rosemary yielded the weakest. However, MFC determination revealed that garlic essential oil demonstrated the highest fungicidal properties and the lowest amount of MFC (700 μL/L). On the other hand, fennel essential oil yielded the highest amount of MFC (2000 μL/L). In general, all essential oils were able to deteriorate and disrupt the structure and morphology of A. alternata mycelium, leading to sedimentation and granulation of cytoplasmic contents and its organelles. This fungus showed the least and most sporulation in the savory and rosemary treatments, respectively, compared to the control. In greenhouse studies, unlike laboratory tests, the highest control rate of tomato early blight was related to the application of a fungicide with an average leaf surface contamination of 1.6%, which demonstrated the highest control rate in greenhouse conditions compared to other essential oil treatments. Compared to the infected control, savory essential oil and rosemary essential oil, with disease severity of 16.66% and 35.0%, respectively, had the greatest effect on the appearance of symptoms following fungicide application. Discussion Numerous plant compounds have been studied for their antifungal and antibacterial properties thus far. Using the antifungal effect of plant essential oils is undoubtedly one of the newest techniques for controlling plant pathogens. The current study compares plant essential oils to a chemical fungicide for controlling tomato early blight in vitro and under greenhouse conditions and demonstrates that plant essential oils are more effective than chemical fungicides. Consistent with this finding, previous research has demonstrated the potential of plant essential oils to control early blight in tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and breast cancer are leading causes of death globally, due to significant challenges in detection and management. The late-stage diagnosis and treatment failures require the discovery of potential anticancer agents to achieve a satisfactory therapeutic effect. We have previously reported a series of plastoquinone analogues to understand their cytotoxic profile. Among these derivatives, three of them (AQ-11, AQ-12, and AQ-15) were selected by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to evaluate their in vitro antiproliferative activity against a panel of 60 human tumor cell lines. AQ-12 exhibited significant antiproliferative activity against HCT-116 CRC and MCF-7 breast cancer cells at a single dose and further five doses. MTT assay was also performed for AQ-12 at different concentrations against these two cells, implying that AQ-12 exerted notable cytotoxicity toward HCT-116 (IC50 = 5.11 ± 2.14 μM) and MCF-7 (IC50 = 6.06 ± 3.09 μM) cells in comparison with cisplatin (IC50 = 23.68 ± 6.81 μM and 19.67 ± 5.94 μM, respectively). This compound also augmented apoptosis in HCT-116 (62.30%) and MCF-7 (64.60%) cells comparable to cisplatin (67.30% and 78.80%, respectively). Molecular docking studies showed that AQ-12 bound to DNA, forming hydrogen bonding through the quinone scaffold. In silico pharmacokinetic determinants indicated that AQ-12 demonstrated drug-likeness with a remarkable pharmacokinetic profile for future mechanistic anti-CRC and anti-breast cancer activity studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biologically active substances have been isolated from weedy plants and investigated against bacterial pathogens for their antimicrobial potential. Medicinal value and biological functions of weeds are being tapped in order to find out novel substances against microorganisms, which have developed resistance to current antibiotics and pesticides. Major objective of the current study was to investigate the antiphytopathogenic potential of the organic extracts of root, stem and leaves of weeds from the family Amaranthaceae (Amaranthus viridis L.and chenopodium murale) against seven bacterial species viz, Bordetella pertussis, Kurthia gibsonii, Burkholderia pseudomallei, Azotobacter nigricans, Phenylobacterium immobile, Azomonas agilis, Enterobacter intermedius. We observed significant results with the application of organic leaf and stem extracts on tested pathogens using well diffusion method whereas aqueous extracts exhibited lower efficacy. Methanolic stem extract (MSE) of A.viridis showed maximum inhibition against Azotobacter nigricans (40±0.08), Enterobacter intermedius (39±0.24), Phenylobacterium immobile (37±0.04), Azomonas agilis (34±0.19) respectively. Methanolic root extract (MLE) of A.viridis were more effective to inhibit the growth of Bordetella pertussis (42±0.24), Kurthia gibsonii (37±0.09). Whereas methanolic leaf extracts were significantly effective against Burkholderia pseudomallei (40±0.13). Significant growth inhibition was also observed in bacterial strains when treated with methanolic stem extract (MSE) of C.murale. against Azotobacter nigricans (38±0.15), Bordetella pertussis (36±0.24) and Phenylobacterium immobile (34±0.04)respectively. Methanolic leaf extracts of C. murale showed maximum inhibition against Kurthia gibsonii (40±0.19), Burkholderia pseudomallei(36±0.19)and Enterobacter intermedius (38±0.08)and root extracts was effective against Azomonas agilis(30±0.19). Both of the species exhibited diverse biochemical compounds in aqueous and organic extracts. Results obtained clearly indicates that antimicrobial constituents of Amaranthus viridis L. and Chenopodium murale weeds can be screened for the isolation of alternative antibacterial compounds to develop novel biopesticides against resistant bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidermal growth factor (EGF)-nanoparticle conjugates have the potential for cancer therapeutics due to the unique cytotoxic activity in cancer cells with EGF receptor (EGFR) overexpression. To gain its maximum activity, the EGF molecule should be immobilized on the nanoparticle surface in a defined orientation so as the bulky nanoparticle will not interfere EGF-EGFR interaction. Herein, we demonstrate successful enhancement of the anti-cancer activity of EGF-gold nanoparticle conjugates (EGF-GNPs) by controlling the EGF orientation on the surface of the nanoparticle through site-specific mutagenesis. Three lysine-free EGF variants (RR, RS, and SR) were designed, where two endogenous lysine residues were replaced with either arginine (R) or serine (S). The EGF mutants can be conjugated to the GNPs in a controlled orientation through the single amino group at the N-terminus. The ability of the mutants to induce extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was no different from wild type EGF (WT) in soluble form, rather lowered for one mutant (RR). However, after conjugated to GNPs, the SR mutants exhibited an enhanced biological activity than WT, in terms of ERK phosphorylation and growth inhibition of cancer cells. Further analysis of the binding constant of each mutant indicated the emergent enhanced activity of the GNP conjugates of the SR mutant was not solely contributed to the orientation, but to its higher binding activity to EGFR. These results validate the present genetic recombination strategy to improve the anticancer efficiency of EGF-GNPs.

The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of eight Palestinian indigenous plant essential oils (EOs) under in vitro and in vivo conditions against Botrytis cinerea Pers.: Fr., Penicillium italicum Wehmer, and Penicillium digitatum (Pers.) Sacc., three common post- harvest pathogens of tomato and strawberry fruits. In vivo tests showed that thyme, sesame and sage EOs exhibited high antifungal activity against B. cinerea on strawberry and toma- to fruits, compared with rosemary, mint and eucalyptus. In vitro agar, disk-diffusion tests showed that B. cinerea, P. digitatum and P. italicum mycelium growth was completely inhi- bited when treated with clove and sage EOs caused 50% inhibition of B. cinerea and P. itali- cum mycelium growth. Fruit decay and fruit quality index values measured in total soluble solids and fruit flesh firmness showed that EO coated strawberries had significantly less fruit decaying and ripping compared to control, while EO coated tomatoes showed no sig- nificant difference compared to control. EO constituents fall into different chemical classes, including sterols, caffeoylquinic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, and acetylenes. Chemical analysis of the EO preparations using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry determined that the main components in sesame oil were octadecenoic acid-(56%) and hexadecanoic acid (26%), while clove oil consisted of eugenol (53%). In the other EOs, the principal compounds were: menthol (44% in mint oil), eucalyptol (37% in sage oil), while bornanone (18% in rosemary oil) and γ-terpinene (21% in thyme oil) were present at lower concentrations. The EO of sage plants could potentially be a useful alternative to synthetic pesticides to control post-harvest diseases and prolong the shelf life of fruit products.

The widespread use of avermectin in both agriculture and aquaculture has raised concerns about its environmental impact on non-target aquatic species. In particular, the use of avermectin in rice-crab co-culture systems poses a significant risk with regards to the production of the Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis , an ecologically and economically important species in China. Through chronic exposure experiments, this research assessed how sublethal concentrations of avermectin influence crab growth, food consumption, and neurobehavioral responses. Our results showed significant reductions in both food intake and overall growth in E. sinensis exposed to 2 and 20 μg/L of avermectin. Neurochemical analysis revealed elevated levels of serotonin (5-HT) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain of exposed crabs, while dopamine levels remained unchanged. Up-regulation of 5-HT and GABA receptor genes was observed under avermectin stress. In addition, oxidative stress was observed, with elevated levels of oxidative products in the brain. Behavioral tests linked neurochemical alterations in serotonin and GABA levels to marked anxiety-like behaviors, characterized by decreased locomotion and increased light avoidance. Importantly, administering 5-HT and GABA receptor antagonists alleviated anxiety-like behaviors. This treatment also reversed growth inhibition, underscoring the role of these neurotransmitters in mediating the toxic effects of avermectin. Our findings highlight the neurotoxic impact of avermectin on aquatic invertebrates and suggest potential intervention strategies to mitigate its adverse effects. [Display omitted] • Avermectin induces oxidative stress and neuroendocrine disruption in E. sinensis. • Avermectin induces anxiety-like behavior which contributes to the growth inhibition. • Antagonists injection attenuates anxiety-like behavior in E. sinensis when exposed to avermectin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) is one of the major environmental concerns in Europe. A wide range of studies has proved the ecotoxic potential of atmospheric particles. PM exerts chemical stress on vegetation by its potentially toxic constituents; however, relatively few studies are available on assessing phytotoxic effects under laboratory conditions. In our study, aqueous extract of particulate matter was prepared and used for treatment. Experiment was following the procedure defined by the No. 227 OECD Guideline for the Testing of Chemicals: Terrestrial Plant Test. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants were used; elucidated toxicity was assessed based on morphological and biochemical endpoints such as biomass, chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b, carotenoids, and protein content. Biomass reduction and protein content showed a clear dose–effect relationship; the biomass decreased in comparison with the control (100%) in all test groups (TG) at a steady rate (TG1: 87.73%; TG2: 71.77%; TG3: 67.01%; TG4: 63.63%). The tendency in protein concentrations compared to the control was TG1: 113.61%; TG2: 148.21% TG3: 160.52%; TG4: 157.31%. However, pigments showed a ‘Janus-faced’ effect: nutrient content of the sample caused slight increase at lower doses; actual toxicity became apparent only at higher doses (chlorophyll-a concentration decrease was 84.47% in TG4, chlorophyll-b was 77.17%, and finally, carotene showed 83.60% decrease in TG4).

From ancient times honey was renowned for healing properties both in internal consumption and of external applications. Samples of non-standardized honey obtained direct from beekeeper were used in a study using a method of growth inhibition in the culture medium of microorganisms. In this aim were been chosen a few of high pathogenic bacterial species implicated in severe infection both in animals and human: Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Enterococcus faecium and Pasteurella haemolytica. The zone diameter of inhibition (ZDI) was the most developed with the highest value in the case of Bacillus subtilis (35 mm) and the lowest value was obtained in the case of Salmonella typhimurium (21 mm). Also in a diluted sample of honey was calculated the total number of bacteria colonies, then was inoculated material from a culture of Staphylococcus aureus. After bacteria inoculation was calculated again the total number of bacteria colonies and then the samples were been maintained in thermostat (37oC) 12 hours and was repeated the counting of total number of bacteria colonies. In comparison with the value obtained at first counting of bacteria colonies after inoculating of Staphylococcus aureus culture (1326 colonies/milliliter), at the second counting the obtained value was nearly half (698 bacteria colonies/milliliter) from this one. All these demonstrate the antibacterial activity of honey apparently due to some bactericidal factors in its composition.

The culture supernatant of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KM2 exhibited antimicrobial activity against seven foodborne pathogens. Genomic analysis revealed the presence of an operon capable of producing plantaricins, specifically bacteriocins known as plantaricins A, E, F, J, and K. In this study, genomic comparisons confirmed that this plantaricin operon was strain-specific to L. plantarum rather than universally present in all strains of the species. Genes corresponding to plantaricins A, E, F, J, and K were identified and their syntheses confirmed, leading to the verification of their antimicrobial activities. Synthesized plantaricins were prepared individually and in combinations of two or three. Their antimicrobial activities were tested against nine indicator strains. The results showed variations in the magnitude and efficacy of their antimicrobial activity, depending on the combination used. Among them, the combination of synthesized plantaricins spPlnAEJ and spPlnAEK showed the greatest effect against Flavobacterium sp. KCCM 11374. To elucidate the mechanism of antimicrobial activity, Raman spectra were examined. Notably, the Raman spectra of Flavobacterium sp. KCCM 11374 treated with synthesized plantaricins differed quite a bit from the untreated spectra, suggesting a distinct effect. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy results revealed that these synthesized plantaricins could induce the cell lysis of Flavobacterium sp. KCCM 11374. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Structure of an impurity (JK12A) in 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-mTHF) was elucidated. • JK12A affected the heart rate and survival rate of Zebrafish embryos in a dose–dependent manner. • JK12A significantly change the levels of cardiac development-related genes. Impurity control is essential as impurities can diminish the biological activity, increase the toxicity, and affect the clinical efficacy of drugs. This study elucidated the structure of (4-((4a S ,7 R)-2-amino-10-methyl-4-oxo-3,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4a,7-epiminopyrimido[4,5- b ][1,4]diazepin-5(4 H)-yl)benzoyl)- l -glutamic acid (JK12A), an oxidative impurity of 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5-mTHF), using NMR and HRMS techniques. The biological safety of JK12A was assessed using a zebrafish assay, evaluating its impact on genes critical for cardiac development through qRT-PCR analysis. The findings demonstrated that JK12A adversely influenced the growth of zebrafish embryos and altered both the heart rate and survival rate in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the expression levels of cardiac development-related genes (has2, hand2, mef2a, and nkx2.5) exhibited significant changes upon exposure to various concentrations of JK12A at different time points. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]