Aspects Of Biology Research Articles

Bacteriophage-Based Bioanalysis.

Bacteriophages, which are viral predators of bacteria, have evolved to efficiently recognize, bind, infect, and lyse their host, resulting in the release of tens to hundreds of propagated viruses. These abilities have attracted biosensor developers who have developed new methods to detect bacteria. Recently, several comprehensive reviews have covered many of the advances made regarding the performance of phage-based biosensors. Therefore, in this review, we first describe the landscape of phage-based biosensors and then cover advances in other aspects of phage biology and engineering that can be used to make high-impact contributions to biosensor development. Many of these advances are in fields adjacent to analytical chemistry such as synthetic biology, machine learning, and genetic engineering and will allow those looking to develop phage-based biosensors to start taking alternative approaches, such as a bottom-up design and synthesis of custom phages with the singular task of detecting their host.

Ultraviolet light and riboflavin accelerates red blood cell dysfunction in vitro and in a guinea pig transfusion model.

Quality assessment of modified or processed red blood cell (RBC) components, such as pathogen-reduced RBCs, using only in vitro testing may not always be predictive of in vivo performance. Mouse or rat in vivo models are limited by a lack of applicability to certain aspects of human RBC biology. Here, we used a guinea pig model to study the effects of riboflavin combined with UV light on the integrity of RBCs in vitro and following transfusion in vivo. Guinea pig RBCs were collected from whole blood (WB) treated with varying UV doses (10, 20, 40 or 80 J/mL) in the presence of riboflavin (UVR-RBCs). In vitro tests for UVR-RBCs included hemolysis, osmotic fragility, and cellular morphology by scanning electron microscopy. Guinea pigs transfused with one-day post-treatment UVR-RBCs were evaluated for plasma hemoglobin (Hb), non-transferrin bound iron (NTBI), total iron and Perls-detectable hemosiderin deposition in the spleen and kidney, and renal uptake of Hb. Acute RBC injury was dose dependently accelerated after treatment with UV light in the presence of riboflavin. Aberrant RBC morphology was evident at 20, 40, and 80 J/mL, and membrane lysis with Hb release was prominent at 80 J/mL. Guinea pigs transfused with 40 and 80 J/mL UVR-RBCs showed increased plasma Hb levels, and plasma NTBI was elevated in all UVR-RBC groups (10-80 J/mL). Total iron levels and Perls-hemosiderin staining in spleen and kidney as well as Hb uptake in renal proximal tubules were increased 8 hours post-transfusion with 40 and 80 J/mL UVR-RBCs. UVR-RBCs administered to guinea pigs increased markers of intravascular and extravascular hemolysis in a UV dose-dependent manner. This model may allow for the discrimination of RBC injury during testing of extensively processed RBCs intended for transfusion.

Analysis of Scientific Knowledge on The Process of Making Tempeh Gembus as Local Wisdom and Its Potential for Empowering Students' Analytical Thinking Skills

The lack of teacher information regarding the scientific knowledge contained in the process of making tempeh gembus has an impact on students' low analytical thinking skills. This study aims to: (1) analyze the scientific knowledge in the process of making tempeh gembus; (2) analyze the potential of scientific knowledge in the process of making tempeh gembus towards empowering students' analytical thinking skills; and (3) analyze the correlation of scientific knowledge in the process of making tempeh gembuswith the basic competencies in science learning materials. This research is a qualitative descriptive study with an ethnographic approach. The primary data sources for this research are from observations and interviews with tempeh gembus producers and junior high school science teachers in the Karangpandan District. The sampling technique used is snowball sampling. Data collection is carried out through observation, interviews, and documentation. The instrument validity test technique uses expert validation (two experts). Data validity test technique uses triangulation of data collection techniques. Data analysis is conducted using Miles and Huberman's interactive model analysis. The results show that the process of making tempeh gembus contains scientific knowledge (aspects of physics, chemistry, and biology). The scientific knowledge in the process of making tempeh gembus has the potential to empower students' analytical thinking skills. The scientific knowledge in the process of making tempeh gembus presented in booklet form is related to the basic competencies in junior high school science learning materials

Genetic Characterization and Chemical Identification of Moroccan Cannabis sativa (L.) Seeds: Extraction, and In Vitro and In Silico Biological Evaluation.

This study investigated the molecular, phytochemical, and biological aspects of ten local Moroccan traditional landrace Cannabis seeds. Genetic polymorphisms were analyzed using DNA barcode determination, revealing two distinct molecular profiles: "Cannabis, species sativa, subspecies indica" and "Cannabis, species sativa, subspecies sativa". Furthermore, a new sequence was identified by sequencing of the THCA synthase coding gene. Chemical profiling via HPLC-ESI-FULL-MS and GC-MS-MS of AMSD1 maceration extracts revealed 13 non-volatile chemicals, including 3 inactive cannabinoids and 3 polyphenols, and 24 intriguing volatile compounds, including 7 previously unreported in Cannabis seed extracts. Moreover, the in vitro/in silico analysis provision of biological activities through their antioxidant power, antimicrobial effect, and cytotoxicity potency, as well as antiviral activity, were realized. These results contribute to a thorough comprehension of Moroccan Cannabis seeds, illuminating their molecular, phytochemical, and biological features. Furthermore, they highlight the seeds as a potential source of nutritious components with antioxidant properties, offering valuable insights for future research.

Structural and computational exploration of zwitterionic and quinoidal forms in Schiff base compound

The stable NH-form of the Schiff base compound, (Z)-6-(((4-chlorobenzyl) amino) methylene)-2-hydroxycyclohexa-2,4-dienone was synthesized and characterized by FTIR, SEM, EDAX anlysis and X-ray crystallographic analysis. Structural analysis was carried out to examine the NH-form of the halogen-based Schiff base compound. Additionally, an analysis of bond lengths, based on previously reported NH-forms of other Schiff bases, was conducted to distinguish between the zwitterion and quinoid structures. Further, Hirshfeld surface analysis was performed to visualize and quantify intermolecular interactions, supported by shape index, 2D fingerprint plots, and Enrichment ratio analyzes, highlighting the importance of these interactions. Energy frameworks were established to deepen the understanding of crystal packing through the computation of intermolecular interaction energies. QTAIM analysis was performed to visualize and quantify intramolecular interactions, while Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies elucidated molecular properties such as the HOMO-LUMO energy gap and its derivatives. Evaluation of antibacterial activity against S. aureus was conducted via the disc diffusion assay supplemented by molecular docking studies. This comprehensive approach provides valuable structural insights into the NH-form, as well as molecular and biological aspects of (Z)-6-(((4-chlorobenzyl) amino) methylene)-2-hydroxycyclohexa-2,4-dienone.

Application of Silicone in Ophthalmology: A Review.

This paper reviews the latest trends and applications of silicone in ophthalmology, especially related to intraocular lenses (IOLs). Silicone, or siloxane elastomer, as a synthetic polymer, has excellent biocompatibility, high chemical inertness, and hydrophobicity, enabling wide biomedical applications. The physicochemical properties of silicone are reviewed. A review of methods for mechanical and in vivo characterization of IOLs is presented as a prospective research area, since there are only a few available technologies, even though these properties are vital to ensure medical safety and suitability for clinical use, especially if long-term function is considered. IOLs represent permanent implants to replace the natural lens or for correcting vision, with the first commercial foldable lens made of silicone. Biological aspects of posterior capsular opacification have been reviewed, including the effects of the implanted silicone IOL. However, certain issues with silicone IOLs are still challenging and some conditions can prevent its application in all patients. The latest trends in nanotechnology solutions have been reviewed. Surface modifications of silicone IOLs are an efficient approach to further improve biocompatibility or to enable drug-eluting function. Different surface modifications, including coatings, can provide long-term treatments for various medical conditions or medical diagnoses through the incorporation of sensory functions. It is essential that IOL optical characteristics remain unchanged in case of drug incorporation and the application of nanoparticles can enable it. However, clinical trials related to these advanced technologies are still missing, thus preventing their clinical applications at this moment.

The West Nile virus genome harbors essential riboregulatory elements with conserved and host-specific functional roles

West Nile virus (WNV) is an arthropod-borne, positive-sense RNA virus that poses an increasing global threat due to warming climates and lack of effective therapeutics. Like other enzootic viruses, little is known about how host context affects the structure of the full-length RNA genome. Here, we report a complete secondary structure of the entire WNV genome within infected mammalian and arthropod cell lines. Our analysis affords structural insights into multiple, conserved aspects of flaviviral biology. We show that the WNV genome folds with minimal host dependence, and we prioritize well-folded regions for functional validation using structural homology between hosts as a guide. Using structure-disrupting, antisense locked nucleic acids, we then demonstrate that the WNV genome contains riboregulatory structures with conserved and host-specific functional roles. These results reveal promising RNA drug targets within flaviviral genomes, and they highlight the therapeutic potential of ASO-LNAs as both WNV-specific and pan-flaviviral therapeutic agents.

Why Pimping Works: The Neurophysiology of Emotional Memories.

A time-honored medical ritual that combines emotion and cognition into a seamless consolidation of lucid memories is a feared teaching method in medical education. The resulting neurophysiology is explained from a neurosurgeon's perspective - equal parts guilt and dread as a prescription for an improved and sustained trainee fund of knowledge. Much of the available literature published with regard to pimping explores its pedagogy and use in medical practice. This review aims to explore the neurobehavioral and biological aspects of pimping in why it remains a popular teaching model. We describe the neuromodulatory process of integrating emotions and memory as observed during pimping. Additionally, we explore the neuronal pathways and circuits involved in memory encoding, consolidation, and retrieval. Finally, we explored theeffects of this methodology as it is currently used in the United States medical education system.

Metabolomics in sturgeon research: a mini-review.

Sturgeons are ancient fish, with 27 species distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. This review first touches upon the significance of sturgeons in the context of their biological, ecological, and economic importance, highlighting their status as "living fossils" and the challenges they face in genomic research due to their diverse chromosome numbers. This review then discusses how omics technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) have been used in sturgeon research, which so far has only been done on Acipenser species. It focuses on metabolomics as a way to better understand how sturgeons work and how they react to their environment. Specific studies in sturgeon metabolomics are cited, showing how metabolomics has been used to investigate various aspects of sturgeon biology, such as growth, reproduction, stress responses, and nutrition. These studies demonstrate the potential of metabolomics in improving sturgeon aquaculture practices and conservation efforts. Overall, the review suggests that metabolomics, as a relatively new scientific tool, has the potential to enhance our understanding of sturgeon biology and aid in their conservation and sustainable aquaculture, contributing to global food security efforts.

Glioma-Stem-Cell-Derived Exosomes Remodeled Glioma-Associated Macrophage via NEAT1/miR-125a/STAT3 Pathway.

Glioblastoma (GBM), as the most common primary brain tumor, usually results in an extremely poor prognosis, in which glioma stem cells (GSCs) and their immunosuppressive microenvironment prominently intervene in the resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy that directly leads to tumor recurrence and shortened survival time. The specific mechanism through which exosomes generated from GSCs support the creation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment remains unknown, while it is acknowledged to be engaged in intercellular communication and the regulation of the glioma immunosuppressive microenvironment. The elevated expression of LncRNA-NEAT1 was found in glioma cells after radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and DNA damage stimulation, and NEAT1 could promote the malignant biological activities of GSCs. Emerging evidence suggests that lncRNAs may reply to external stimuli or DNA damage by playing a role in modulating different aspects of tumor biology. Our study demonstrated a promotive role of the carried NEAT1 by GSC-derived exosomes in the polarization of M2-like macrophages. Further experiments demonstrated the mediative role of miR-125a and its target gene STAT3 in NEAT1-induced polarization of M2-like macrophages that promote glioma progression. Our findings elucidate the mechanism by which GSCs influence the polarization of M2-like macrophages through exosomes, which may contribute to the formation of immunosuppressive microenvironments. Taken together, our study reveals the miR-125a-STAT3 pathway through which exosomal NEAT1 from treatment-resistant GSCs contributes to M2-like macrophage polarization, indicating the potential of exosomal NEAT1 for treating glioma.

Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Synodontis schall (Bloch & Schneider, 1801), from Roseires Reservoir, Sudan

This study was carried out to investigate the length-weight relationship and condition factor of the Mochokid catfish S. schall, a commercially important fish species in the Roseires reservoir on the Blue Nile, Sudan. A total of 643 specimens were collected using the multi-filament gillnets of mesh sizes (4.0, 8.0, 10.0, and 12.0 cm) and twine (No. 2 and 12) during the period from November 2015 to October 2016; Samples were collected from four sites namely: Awal Bab, Elregiba, Kirma, and Wad El Mahi.; The length and weight of sampled fish were measured and recorded on the sampling sites and used to determine a length-weight relationship. The growth coefficient (b) ranged from 1.196 to 2.649, with moderate to high correlations (r) between 0.437 and 0.798. Values of (b) were less than 3 indicating a negative allometric growth pattern, whereas weight increased at a lower rate than length. The condition factor (K) ranged from 1.966 ± 0.696 to 3.856 ± 3.856, suggesting the fish were in good health condition throughout the sampling sites. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the biological aspects of S. schall, which can form the basis of sustainable management and conservation policy for the fishery resource of this economically important fish species in the Roseires reservoir.

Integrative proteome and metabolome unveil the central role of IAA alteration in axillary bud development following topping in tobacco

Axillary bud is an important aspect of plant morphology, contributing to the final tobacco yield. However, the mechanisms of axillary bud development in tobacco remain largely unknown. To investigate this aspect of tobacco biology, the metabolome and proteome of the axillary buds before and after topping were compared. A total of 569 metabolites were differentially abundant before and 1, 3, and 5 days after topping. KEGG analyses further revealed that the axillary bud was characterized by a striking enrichment of metabolites involved in flavonoid metabolism, suggesting a strong flavonoid biosynthesis activity in the tobacco axillary bud after topping. Additionally, 9035 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified before and 1, 3, and 5 days after topping. Subsequent GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the DEPs in the axillary bud were enriched in oxidative stress, hormone signal transduction, MAPK signaling pathway, and starch and sucrose metabolism. The integrated proteome and metabolome analysis revealed that the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) alteration in buds control dormancy release and sustained growth of axillary bud by regulating proteins involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Notably, the proteins related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and flavonoid biosynthesis were strongly negatively correlated with IAA content. These findings shed light on a critical role of IAA alteration in regulating axillary bud outgrowth, and implied a potential crosstalk among IAA alteration, ROS homeostasis, and flavonoid biosynthesis in tobacco axillary bud under topping stress, which could improve our understanding of the IAA alteration in axillary bud as an important regulator of axillary bud development.

A novel induced pluripotent stem cell model of Schwann cell differentiation reveals NF2 - related gene regulatory networks of the extracellular matrix.

Schwann cells are vital to development and maintenance of the peripheral nervous system and their dysfunction has been implicated in a range of neurological and neoplastic disorders, including NF2 -related schwannomatosis. We developed a novel human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) model to study Schwann cell differentiation in health and disease. We performed transcriptomic, immunofluorescence, and morphological analysis of hiPSC derived Schwann cell precursors (SPCs) and terminally differentiated Schwann cells (SCs) representing distinct stages of development. To validate our findings, we performed integrated, cross-species analyses across multiple external datasets at bulk and single cell resolution. Our hiPSC model of Schwann cell development shared overlapping gene expression signatures with human amniotic mesenchymal stem cell (hAMSCs) derived SCs and in vivo mouse models, but also revealed unique features that may reflect species-specific aspects of Schwann cell biology. Moreover, we identified gene co-expression modules that are dynamically regulated during hiPSC to SC differentiation associated with ear and neural development, cell fate determination, the NF2 gene, and extracellular matrix (ECM) organization. By cross-referencing results between multiple datasets, we identified new genes potentially associated with NF2 expression. Our hiPSC model further provides a tractable platform for studying Schwann cell development in the context of human disease.

P-530 Precise quantification of DNA in spent culture media sheds light on associations between DNA quantity, embryonic ploidy status and morphological quality

Abstract Study question Is it possible to accurately measure cell-free DNA (cfDNA) quantity in embryo spent culture media, and are amounts correlated with embryo morphological and/or chromosomal status? Summary answer A sensitive DNA quantification method was created, demonstrating that cfDNA quantity is not associated with embryo ploidy, but increases when embryos are of poor morphology. What is known already Preimplantation genetic testing involves embryo biopsy, necessitating specialist equipment and highly trained staff, increasing costs. Additionally, there have been concerns over potential embryo damage to the embryo resulting from biopsy. The discovery of cfDNA in medium in which embryos were cultured, led to suggestions that non-invasive PGT (niPGT) might be possible. However, the amount of cfDNA in media samples, and potential correlations with other aspects of embryo biology, require clarification. We aimed to provide the first accurate measurement of the amount of DNA in spent culture medium, providing insights into whether niPGT is likely to provide acceptable accuracy rates. Study design, size, duration This prospective analysis involved media samples from 151 fresh embryos, which were produced at a single IVF clinic over the course of one year. Embryos were cultured individually, with a medium change on day-3 of development. Trophectoderm biopsy was undertaken on day-5/-6, followed by PGT-A. Embryo morphology was assessed according to ASEBIR criteria (ranked A-C). Participants/materials, setting, methods The culture and biopsy protocols used were standard for the clinic. Media was collected prior to biopsy and underwent a novel quantitative whole genome amplification method, allowing precise measurement of DNA with respect to a standard curve generated using samples containing known amounts of DNA. PGT-A involved the use of a highly validated method, based upon next generation sequencing. Correlation between DNA quantity and embryo morphological quality was also studied. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. Main results and the role of chance There was no difference in the quantity of DNA in media samples associated with euploid and aneuploid embryos (mean DNA quantity and standard deviations were 1.72 ± 3.23 pg and 1.54 ± 3.66 pg for aneuploid and euploid embryos, respectively; p = 0.75). Overall, 91% of media samples contained less than the equivalent of one cell (<5pg of DNA) and almost two-thirds of samples (65%) contained less than 1pg of DNA. Given such low quantities of embryonic DNA, achieving accurate genetic testing is likely to be challenging. Drops that held embryos until day-6 had significantly higher levels of DNA than those associated with culture to day-5 (P < 0.0001), suggesting cfDNA accumulates with time. Thus, longer culture periods are likely to yield more DNA for analysis. Comparing the amount of cfDNA with morphological status revealed a significant association. Embryos of fair quality (C) tended to have higher quantities of DNA in spent culture medium, whereas top-quality embryos (classified as A or B) typically had less (mean and standard deviation of DNA quantity: 1.23 ± 3.14 pg for class A and B versus 2.60 ± 3.85 pg for class C; p < 0.05). This may reflect increased cell death and DNA release in poorer quality embryos. Limitations, reasons for caution This project is limited by its single-centre nature and relatively small sample size. A large-scale, multicentre study would be necessary to confirm these results. Wider implications of the findings It has been hypothesised that cfDNA quantity in culture medium may be predictive of embryo chromosomal status. We found no evidence to support this. Although DNA quantities were higher after culture to day-6, levels remained low, calling into question the ability of niPGT to deliver high accuracy diagnosis of embryos. Trial registration number not applicable

Multimorbid pathology at psoriasis (scientific review)

Chronic auto-inflammatory process in psoriasis is associated with the involvement of internal organs and systems, as well as the development of several systemic disorders: heart failure, psoriatic arthritis, diabetes, obesity, etc. In this regard, the purpose of our study is to integrate information about comorbid and concomitant pathology in patients with psoriasis. Data on the biological aspects of the increased risk of occurrence and adverse cardiovascular outcome of myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular mortality in patients with psoriasis are supported by clinical observations on the relationship of the course of coronary heart disease with the area of skin lesion. The association between the presence of obesity and an increased level of proinflammatory cytokines has been confirmed, which may be one of the triggers for the development of psoriatic arthritis associated with early disability of patients with psoriasis. There was a greater incidence of non-response to psoriasis treatment among obese patients. Cardiovascular complications are the most common cause of death for patients with psoriasis. Identifying common combinations of comorbid and concomitant diseases in the main chronic disease can serve as a basis for the development of tactics and criteria for patient management in order to optimize treatment.

Application of genome editing in plant reproductive biology: recent advances and challenges.

This comprehensive review underscores the application of genome editing in plant reproductive biology, including recent advances and challenges associated with it. Genome editing (GE) is a powerful technology that has the potential to accelerate crop improvement by enabling efficient, precise, and rapid engineering of plant genomes. Over the last decade, this technology has rapidly evolved from the use of meganucleases (homing endonucleases), zinc-finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases to the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas), which has emerged as a popular GE tool in recent times and has been extensively used in several organisms, including plants. GE has been successfully employed in several crops to improve plant reproductive traits. Improving crop reproductive traits is essential for crop yields and securing the world's food supplies. In this review, we discuss the application of GE in various aspects of plant reproductive biology, including its potential application in haploid induction, apomixis, parthenocarpy, development of male sterile lines, and the regulation of self-incompatibility. We also discuss current challenges and future prospects of this technology for crop improvement, focusing on plant reproduction.

A stranding of pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata) near Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico confirms the presence of the species in the Mexican Caribbean

Abstract Strandings and opportunistic sightings represent an invaluable source of information on cetacean’s biodiversity in the Mexican Caribbean. Here, we document the stranding and rescue of two pantropical spotted dolphins Stenella attenuata (mother and male calf) near Tulum (Quintana Roo, Mexico), which died without a clear diagnosis of cause of death. This case confirms the occurrence of S. attenuata, increasing the number of local aquatic mammals to 20. As most of the other small cetaceans in this region, the conservation status of the species remains undefined, and more research is needed to better understand ecological and biological aspects of its population.

The role of HSP40 in cancer: Recent advances.

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are a family of proteins involved in protein folding and maturation that are expressed by cells in response to stressors including heat shock. Recent studies have demonstrated that HSPs play major roles in carcinogenesis by regulating angiogenesis, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis, as well as therapy resistance to certain anticancer drugs. Despite being the largest and most diverse subgroup of the HSP family, HSP40 (DNAJ) is an understudied family of co-chaperones. HSP40 family members are also known to be involved in various types of cancers. In this article, we review the involvement of human HSP40 family members in various aspects of cancer biology. In addition, we highlight the possible potential of HSP40 as a tumor biomarker or drug target for improving the prognosis and treatment of cancer patients in the future.

Role of Na/K-ATPase α1 caveolin-binding motif in adipogenesis.

Deficiencies in mice and in humans have brought to the fore the importance of the caveolar network in key aspects of adipocyte biology. The conserved N-terminal caveolin-binding motif (CBM) of the ubiquitous Na/K-ATPase (NKA) α1 isoform, which allows NKA/caveolin-1 (Cav1) interaction, influences NKA signaling and caveolar distribution. It has been shown to be critical for animal development and ontogenesis, as well as lineage-specific differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). However, its role in postnatal adipogenesis has not been fully examined. Using a genetic approach to alter CBM in hiPSC-derived adipocytes (iAdi-mCBM) and in mice (mCBM), we investigated the regulatory function of NKA CBM signaling in adipogenesis. Seahorse XF cell metabolism analyses revealed impaired glycolysis and decreased ATP synthesis-coupled respiration in iAdi-mCBM. These metabolic dysfunctions were accompanied by evidence of extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), including increased collagen staining, overexpression of ECM marker genes, and heightened TGF-β signaling uncovered by RNAseq analysis. Rescue of mCBM by lentiviral delivery of WT NKA α1 or treatment of mCBM hiPSCs with the TGF-β inhibitor SB431542 normalized ECM, suggesting that NKA CBM signaling integrity is required for adequate control of TGF-β signaling and ECM stiffness during adipogenesis. The physiological impact was revealed in mCBM male mice with reduced fat mass accompanied by histological and transcriptional evidence of elevated adipose fibrosis and decreased adipocyte size. Based on these findings, we propose that the genetic alteration of the NKA/Cav1 regulatory path uncovered in human iAdi leads to lipodystrophy in mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A Na/K-ATPase α1 caveolin-binding motif regulates adipogenesis. Mutation of this binding motif in the mouse leads to reduced fat with increased extracellular matrix production and inflammation. RNA-seq analysis and pharmacological interventions in human iPSC-derived adipocytes revealed that TGF-β signal, rather than Na/K-ATPase-mediated ion transport, is a key mediator of NKA regulation of adipogenesis.

Biological Importance of Phellodendrine in Traditional and Modern Medicines: An Update on Therapeutic Potential in Medicine.

Herbal medicines have been used for the preparation of numerous pharmaceutical products for the treatment of human disorders. Plant-derived products have been used in medicine, nutraceuticals, perfumery, beverages, and cosmetics industries for different purposes. Herbal medicines are mainly derived from different parts of plant materials. Phellodendron bark has been widely known as one of the fundamental herbs of traditional Chinese medicine. Phellodendron bark contains phellodendrine as a main active phytochemical. Phellodendrine ((7S,13aS)-3,10-dimethoxy-7-methyl-6,8,13,13atetrahydro-5H-isoquinolino[2,1-b]isoquinolin-7- ium-2,11-diol), is a quaternary ammonium alkaloid. This present study aimed to investigate the biological potential and therapeutic effectiveness of phellodendrine in medicine through scientific data analysis of different research works on phellodendrine. The therapeutic value of phellodendrine was analyzed in the present work through scientific data available in Google, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. All the scientific data on phellodendrine were collected from these databases using the terms herbal drugs and phellodendrine. Pharmacological and analytical data of phellodendrine were analyzed in the present work in order to know the medicinal importance of phellodendrine. Scientific data analysis of phellodendrine in the present work signified the biological importance of phellodendrine in medicine. Phellodendrine has numerous beneficial aspects in medicine due to its potential benefits in ulcerative colitis, inflammation, pancreatic cancer, nephritis, immune response, acetylcholinesterase activity, psoriasis, arthritis, atopic dermatitis, and oxidative stress. However, it also has significant effects on eicosanoid generation, neuraminidase-1, inflammasome generation, cytochrome p450, taste receptors, and hepatic gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, scientific data has indicated the presence of phellodendrine in different natural sources, including Phellodendri cortex. Analytical data on phellodendrines has signified their importance in the isolation and separation of pure phytochemicals in medicine. Pharmacokinetic parameters have highlighted the tissue distribution of phellodendrine in different tissue of human beings and higher animals. In the present work, scientific data analysis has indicated the biological importance, pharmacological activities, and analytical aspects of phellodendrine in medicine.