- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.844.851
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Narine Tumasyan + 8 more
The proline-rich-peptides are a class of neurosecretory hypothalamic bioactive polypeptides derived from cattle and comprise the content of bovine posterior pituitary neurosecretory granules. These peptides are co-validated through a single precursor protein neurophysin-vasopressin-associated glycoprotein. Proline-Rich-Polypeptide-1 (PRP-1) is a 15-amino acid peptide with anti-neurodegenerative, immunoregulatory, hematopoietic, antimicrobial, and antitumor activity. The aim of this study, accordingly, is to elaborate an assay for the determination of PRP-1 and its defined amount in the blood samples from patients with breast, lung, stomach, and colonic cancer, as well as cancer of any type localized/circulated predominantly in genitourinary organs. Control for this experiment is the blood serum of normal healthy patients, which is compared to cancer patients' serum. We have employed an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) using a polyclonal antibody directed against synthetic PRP-1 for this purpose and have analyzed blood serum diluted 1:1. The ELISA analysis has revealed no statistically significant differences in PRP-1 levels between the analyzed types of neoplasms, while a significant difference was observed when comparing all tumors with control serum. This work investigates the content of endogenous PRP-1 in patients who have received chemotherapy as treatment for different periods. Its decrease may be associated with the fact that the patients' blood was drawn almost a week after chemotherapy. The expected result of an increased level of PRP-1 observed in various pathologies is not detected, most likely due to the proteolytic breakdown of endogenous PRP-1 in two days after it enters the blood.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.940.955
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Sumihar Hutapea + 4 more
Sweet corn is an essential agricultural product in Indonesia and contributes to national food security. Consequently, numerous strategies can be implemented to increase the yield of sweet corn, such as intensified fertilization. While organic fertilizers like biofertilizers and biochar have shown potential to enhance crop growth, their combined effects on sweet corn, particularly under Indonesian conditions, are understudied. This study seeks to assess the synergistic impact of biogenesis biofertilizer and rice husk biochar on the growth and production of sweet corn in an Indonesian agroecological context. In this study, two treatment parameters were compromised by the factorial Randomized Block Design (RBD): 1. Bioneensis biofertilizer, which was formulated into four distinct levels. B0 = No Bioneensis Biofertilizer (served as a control), B1 = Bioneensis Biofertilizer 571 kg/ha (10 g/planting holes), B2 = Bioneensis Biofertilizer 1,142 tons/ha (20 g/planting holes), B3 = Bioneensis Biofertilizer 1,713 ton/ha (30 g/planting holes); and 2. The dosage factor of rice husk biochar (P) comprises four values, specifically: P0 = No Biochar (0 kg/plot), P1 = Biochar 5 tonnes/ha (0.5 kg/plot), P2 = Biochar 10 tonnes/ha (1 kg/plot), P3 = Biochar 15 tonnes/ha (1.5 kg/plot). The findings of this research indicate that the use of biogenesis biological fertilizers significantly affects plant height and stem diameter. However, the utilization of this fertilizer does not produce a noticeable effect on leaf quantity, leaf colour, cob weight with husks per sample, cob weight per plot, cob weight without husks per sample, or cob weight without husks per plot. Conversely, the utilization of rice husk biochar markedly affected the growth and yield of sweet corn, including parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, leaf quantity, cob weight with husks per plot and cob weight without husks per plot. Nonetheless, it did not substantially influence leaf colour, cob weight with husks per sample, or cob weight without husks per sample. Hence, this study suggests that integrating biogenesis biofertilizer and rice husk biochar holds promise for improving sweet corn productivity.
- Research Article
1
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.873.891
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Victor Corbita + 11 more
Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud.), also known as “China grass”, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Urticaceae family. Ramie is considered one of the ancient and important economic and natural fiber crops today. Indeed, ramie fiber ranks first in durability, tensile strength, length of fiber cells, fineness, and color. Aside from its role in the textile industry, ramie is also known for its role in traditional herbal medicine. Indeed, ramie plant extracts have been documented to benefit various organ systems of the human body. This paper reviews the advances in ramie cultivation, taxonomy, ecology, chemistry, industry use, and medicinal and therapeutic properties. Then, we discuss the current pests and diseases affecting ramie plant growth and cultivation. For instance, ramie anthracnose may yield losses averaging 20% and ranging as high as 55%. Pests like Tarbinskiellus (Brachytrypes) portentosus can cause up to 50% damage by consuming young shoots and damaging rhizomes. In contrast, the Indian red admiral caterpillar, Vanessa (Pyrameis) indica, causes up to 30% infestations. Pest management strategies can make up 15-20% of plantation costs through chemical spraying. This review would be useful in maximizing the potential benefits of ramie in the fiber industry and medicine. This is also the first review of the biotic stress affecting ramie, which may be used as a guide for future research works that aim towards a sustainable and environment-friendly pest and disease management approach, ensuring sustainable and profitable ramie cultivation.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.833.843
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Alfredo V Corpuz + 2 more
The environment, human health, and animals are all at risk as a result of the pervasive use of chemical-based products to control ticks and lice in animals, mostly dogs. This investigation was designed to assess the efficacy and physicochemical properties of an acaricidal soap for canines that was formulated using Azadirachta indica and Carica papaya leaf extracts. The soap was intended to be effective against Rhipicephalus sanguineus (dog ticks). Following an experimental design, the investigation was consistent with Sustainable Development Goal #9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Assessing the acaricidal activity of the extracts, developing the detergent, evaluating its physicochemical characteristics, and determining its median Lethal Dose (LD50) were all components of the process. While soap development took place at the University of Northern Philippines, other experiments were carried out at a reference laboratory. The final concentration of the soap was 20 mg/g, achieved by combining 13 mL of extracts (100 mg/mL each) with 65 g of soap constituents. The soap had a greenish-brown color, a smooth texture, a light, pleasant smell, and a pH of 7.9. There was a 14.2 cm height of foam, a 5.2 cm of foam retention, 20% moisture content, 29% total fatty matter, and 0.20% of alkali content. The soap exhibited an earlier onset of acaricidal activity (7–9 hours) compared to a commercial herbal soap (10-12 hours), and both soaps achieve 100% tick mortality within 15 hours. The combined extract's LD50 was 2,933 mg/g body weight. The soap that has been developed is safe, efficacious, and has the potential for further refinement and commercial development.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.892.900
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Kuanysh Karabayev + 3 more
This study evaluates the efficacy of the biological fertilizer BioEcoGum on corn yield and soil fertility under temperate climatic conditions at Karasai, Kazakhstan. The aim of this study was to assess the agronomic, soil, and economic effects of BioEcoGum application on corn (Zea mays L.) cultivated on light chestnut soils in southeastern Kazakhstan. A randomized block design was used, incorporating three organic fertilizer levels (0, 1000, and 2000 kg ha⁻¹) and four BioEcoGum concentrations (0, 2, 4, and 6 cm³/l). Corn hybrids Porumben 458 and 461 were treated via seed soaking (2.5 L/ton) and foliar spraying at vegetative (V4–V6) and reproductive (R1–R2) stages. Results revealed statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) in seed germination rates (by approximately 30%), crop yield (up to 30%), and economic profitability (up to 76.7%) compared to untreated controls. Specifically, the highest corn yield reached 35.7 t/ha under optimal BioEcoGum concentration. Moreover, BioEcoGum significantly enhanced soil organic matter, nutrient availability, and microbial activity, suggesting substantial potential for sustainable agricultural practices. These findings highlight the practical applicability and economic viability of BioEcoGum in improving corn productivity and maintaining soil health.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.1070.1082
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Anastasia V Poznyak + 6 more
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) are integral to immune responses, serving both protective and pathological roles in inflammatory diseases. Despite increasing recognition of NETs, significant gaps remain in understanding the nuanced mechanisms of NETosis and its implications for health and disease. This review systematically explores NETosis—the formation of NETs—by elucidating the molecular signaling pathways and cellular mechanisms involved. We highlight the distinction between classical suicidal NETosis and vital NETosis, providing detailed discussion of key regulatory molecules and events, including the roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4). Furthermore, we analyze the dual nature of NETosis: its protective role in pathogen clearance versus its contribution to tissue damage and autoimmunity. We examine regulatory influences of environmental factors, cytokines, and pathogens on NET formation. Finally, we discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting NETosis, focusing on inhibition of essential molecular components responsible for NET formation and the potential repurposing of existing therapies. This comprehensive review enhances understanding of NETosis mechanisms and their pathophysiological implications, ultimately guiding future research and therapeutic interventions across various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.1083.1089
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Aizhan Baubekova + 6 more
Lichens constitute essential components of terrestrial ecosystems, and comprehensive documentation of lichen diversity is fundamental for conservation and ecosystem management. This study investigated the species composition and ecological distribution of lichens in Burabay State National Nature Park, northern Kazakhstan. Established in 2000, the park encompasses over 100,000 hectares representing a unique forest-steppe ecotone surrounded by extensive steppe landscapes, supporting approximately 700 vascular plant species and diverse recreational facilities. During 2018-2019, intensive surveys were conducted at 11 representative sites throughout the park. A total of 44 lichen species belonging to 19 genera and 9 families were identified. The families Parmeliaceae (14 species, 31.8%) and Cladoniaceae (13 species, 29.5%) exhibited the highest species richness, while Dermatocarpaceae, Verrucariaceae, and Lecanoraceae were each represented by single species. Ecological substrate analysis revealed nine distinct groups, with epiphytic lichens comprising the dominant ecological guild. These findings establish a baseline inventory of lichen diversity in Burabay National Park, contributing to the broader understanding of lichen biogeography in Central Asian forest-steppe ecosystems. The documented species assemblage provides essential data for monitoring ecosystem health and informing conservation strategies in this protected area of Kazakhstan.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.833.840
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Lina M Al Momani + 1 more
Genetic testing for inherited thrombophilia in women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) may play an important role in detecting high-risk subjects. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. The high pure polymerase chain reaction template preparation kit and Reverse hybridization technique were used to detect the presence of factor V (G1691A, Leiden) (FVL), Factor II (prothrombin, G20210A), and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR, C677T) mutations. A total of 127 cases of pregnancy loss participated in the study, with the control group consisting of 26 multiparous women with no history of pregnancy loss. Women with early recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) of unknown cause (n=76) experienced an average of 2.97 ± 1.15 miscarriages, with a mean fetal gestational age at the time of abortion of 7.79 ± 4.52 weeks. In this group, the prevalence of FVL, Factor II, and MTHFR was 50%, 1.3%, and 43.4%, respectively, compared to 15.4%, 0%, and 34.6%, respectively, in the control group. Among the tested mutations, only the prevalence of FVL was statistically different between the early RPL and control groups, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.5 for early RPL of unknown cause. The early pregnancy loss group with a suspected cause (n=24) had hypothyroidism and respiratory infections as potential causes of abortion, contributing to 54.2% and 33.3% of cases, respectively. The prevalence of MTHFR, but not FVL or Factor II, was statistically different in this group compared to the control group, with an OR of 3.8. In conclusion, FVL mutation can be considered as a risk factor for early RPL of unknown cause.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.1090.1098
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Selly S Rajagukguk + 7 more
SCAMP3 (Secretory Carrier Membrane Protein 3) is a crucial component of vesicular trafficking pathways and plays important roles in endocytosis and protein recycling. Previous studies demonstrate SCAMP3 dysregulation in various cancers, suggesting potential applications as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Understanding SCAMP3 expression and post-translational processing provides insights into its biological functions and potential applications in cancer diagnostics and therapy. In this study, we utilized transgenic Bombyx mori (silkworm) with the Bac-to-Bac expression system to produce recombinant SCAMP3. Protein expression was analyzed using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. Both methods confirmed successful SCAMP3 expression in transgenic silkworms. Western blot analysis revealed multiple protein products, indicating proteolytic processing during or following expression. This cleavage pattern may reflect functional protein maturation or processing, providing insights into SCAMP3 structural dynamics and functional domains. These findings demonstrate the utility of B. mori as a robust eukaryotic expression system for producing and studying proteins requiring complex post-translational modifications. The transgenic silkworm platform offers advantages for investigating structure-function relationships and generating proteins for potential therapeutic applications.
- Research Article
- 10.3844/ojbsci.2025.1026.1037
- Apr 1, 2025
- OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
- Anastasia V Poznyak + 6 more
Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) rank among the leading causes of death globally, accounting for a substantial proportion of mortality rates and affecting millions of individuals. Risk factors such as ageing, obesity, diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle contribute significantly to the prevalence of CVD. Osteoarthritis (OA), on the other hand, is one of the most common joint disorders, affecting a large segment of the population, particularly the elderly. While OA is characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain and functional impairment, it is not directly fatal. However, OA significantly diminishes quality of life and is increasingly recognized as a contributing risk factor for CVD, possibly due to shared mechanisms such as chronic Inflammation and metabolic dysregulation. Understanding the interplay between these two conditions is essential for improving patient management and outcomes, highlighting the urgency of interdisciplinary research in this area. This review aims to elucidate the relationship between atherosclerosis and Osteoarthritis, focusing on the roles of inflammatory processes, metabolic disruptions and cholesterol in the pathogenesis of both conditions. A comprehensive analysis of existing literature was conducted, synthesizing findings from epidemiological studies that explore the inflammatory linkages and metabolic pathways connecting OA and CVD. Our review highlights that chronic Inflammation, previously underappreciated in both diseases, plays a critical role in their development. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that dysregulated cholesterol metabolism aligns with the exacerbation of OA symptoms, potentially driving atherosclerotic pathways. The findings reveal a multidimensional relationship wherein OA susceptibility may heighten cardiovascular risk, underscoring the need for interdisciplinary approaches in prevention and management strategies aimed at these interconnected diseases.