B Complex Research Articles

Diet, Nutrition and Opioid Addiction

Adequate nutrition and balanced diet are essential for optimum physical and psychological health. This is especially important in individuals with opioid use disorder (OUDs) who typically show mild to moderate micronutrient deficiencies, including iron and B-complex vitamins. Such deficiencies can alter synaptic plasticity, particularly of the mesolimbic dopamine (ML-DA) pathways responsible for control of feeding and processing of emotions, rewards, and cognition, in these individuals. Addiction to food strongly resembles addiction to drugs of abuse. OUDs tend to prefer high salt, fat, and sugar diets, which activate the ML-DA causing euphorigenic effects. Concurrently, the malnutrition OUDs experience encourages cravings and contribute to their drug seeking. To remedy nutritional deficiencies and brain abnormalities in OUDs, we propose that multiple strategies be incorporated into their treatment regimens that will aid individuals to overcome opioid use disorder and decrease risk for relapse in those who have already recovered.

Vitamin and mineral analysis of fish liver oil, some locally available spices and vegetables

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the vitamin and mineral contents of some locally sourced ingredients such as fish liver oil, Adansonia digitata, Telfaria occidentalis, Celosia spp, Amaranthus cruentas leaves, Xylopia aetiopica, capsicum frutenscen, Saccharomyces cerevicae, rice bran, palm oil and colostrums. The results indicated that fish liver oil was the most potent source of vitamins A, D, E and B12 represented by 9x10 6 iu/100g, 48000icu/100g, 30mg/100g, and 40.5mg/100g, respectively. The B-Complex vitamins were present among the spices and vegetables analyzed. Saccharomyces cerevicae was observed to a potent source of thiamin (9.4mg /100g) and niacin (41.8 mg / 100g). Capsicum spp and Telfaria occidentalis had ample amounts of riboflavin, thiamin and niacin. Rice bran had the highest amount of pyridoxine, 28.6mg/100g, while panthothenate was present more in the milk (8.2mg/100g) than other materials analysed. The mineral composition of the materials analysed showed that they have fairly uniform potency. Amaranthus cruentas was found to contain more mineral with 3.0, 1.4, 5.13, 1.10, 5.04 and 1.09% for copper (cu), Zinc (Zn), potassium (K), Sodium (Na), Calcium (ca), and magnesium (mg), respectively. The results of the analysis indicated that vitamin and mineral potencies of these ingredients can be harnessed for the production of vitamin and mineral premix for animal feed formulation

Strategies to Improve Meat Products' Quality.

Meat products represent an important component of the human diet, their consumption registering a global increase over the last few years. These foodstuffs constitute a good source of energy and some nutrients, such as essential amino acids, high biological value proteins, minerals like iron, zinc, selenium, manganese and B-complex vitamins, especially vitamin B12. On the other hand, nutritionists have associated high consumption of processed meat with an increased risk of several diseases. Researchers and processed meat producers are involved in finding methods to eliminate nutritional deficiencies and potentially toxic compounds, to obtain healthier products and at the same time with no affecting the sensorial quality and safety of the meat products. The present review aims to summarize the newest trends regarding the most important methods that can be applied to obtain high-quality products. Nutritional enrichment with natural bioactive plant compounds (antioxidants, dietary fibers) or probiotics, reduction of harmful components (salt, nitrate/nitrite, N-nitrosamines) and the use of alternative technologies (high-pressure processing, cold plasma, ultrasounds) are the most used current strategies to accomplish this aim.

High frequency of biotinidase deficiency in Italian population identified by newborn screening

The biotinidase (BTD) enzyme is essential for recycling biotin, a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that is the coenzyme of four carboxylases involved in fatty acid synthesis, amino acid catabolism and gluconeogenesis. If untreated, total or partial BTD deficiencies lead to an autosomal recessive inherited organic aciduria whose clinical features, mainly presenting in the first years of life, include, seizures, skin rash, and alopecia. Based on residual BTD enzyme activity it is possible to identify partial or total biotinidase deficiency. The incidence of profound and partial biotinidase deficiency worldwide is estimated to be about 1 in 60.000.We report twelve years of experience in the newborn screening of biotinidase deficiency on 466.182 neonates. When a positive screening result occurred, a clinical evaluation was made of the patient and genetic counselling was offered to the family. Molecular analysis the BTD gene was carried out in all recalled neonates.Newborn screening lead to the identification of 75 BTD deficiencies with an incidence of about 1:6.300 births, ten times higher than the reported worldwide incidence. BTD deficiency was confirmed at a genomic level in all patients, demonstrating a high frequency of the p.(Asp444His) amino acid substitution and the complex allele p.(Ala171Thr)/p.(Asp444His) in the analyzed Italian newborns. Four new mutations (two small deletions, one stop mutation and one missense mutation) and a new combined allelic alteration were identified.Our data suggests that there is a high incidence of the biotinidase defect in the Italian population, most likely due to the high frequency of certain mutations.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF LIPID PEROXIDATION ACTIVITY IN SUSPENSIONS OF CRYOPRESERVED CORD BLOOD NUCLEAR CELLS UNDER EXPOSURE TO ANTIOXIDANTS - MEMBRANOPROTECTORS WITH DIFFERENT ACTION MECHANISMS

An in-depth study of the oxidative homeostasis state into cell suspensions that contain hematopoietic stem cells is one of the key points for understanding ways to improve technologies for long-term storage of this material. Compounds with antioxidant action are considered promising additional cryoprotectants. Intensification of lipid peroxidation processes is one of the main factors causing disturbances in the barrier properties of cell membranes. Comparative analysis of changes in lipid peroxidation parameters during the cryopreservation-deconservation cycle showed that antioxidants-membrane protectors with different mechanisms of action (B-complex vitamins; α-lipoic acid, thiazotic acid morpholinium salt, 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxy pyridine succinate) have similar features of a positive effect on the oxidative status of umbilical cord blood nuclear cell suspensions during cryopreservation. However, 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxy pyridine succinate has a statistically significant advantage over α-lipoic acid and thiazotic acid morpholinium salt in terms of the conjugate formation dynamics during phospholipid peroxidation, which can be associated with its direct antioxidant effect.

Environmental Risk Factors for Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip and/or Cleft Palate in Xinjiang Province, China: A Multiethnic Study.

To determine the risk factors of the occurrence of nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or cleft palate (NSCL/P) in Xinjiang Province, China. The study included 359 patients of NSCL/P and 310 controls. Information about sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, negative life events, possible environmental hazards exposures, and use of supplementations were collected from cases and controls. Both t test and χ2 tests were used for group comparisons. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the independent associations between environmental risk factors and the presence of NSCL/P. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to establish the predictive variables for the occurrence of NSCL/P. The results showed that maternal pesticide exposure (odds ratio [OR] = 11.40, 95%CI: 5.40-24.10), antibiotic drugs use (OR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.14-1.53), paternal smoking (OR = 3.30, 95%CI: 1.87-5.83), threatened abortion (OR = 12.2, 95%CI: 3.29-45.25) were associated with increased risk of NSCL/P in offspring. In contrast, maternal moderate (OR = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.20-0.92) and middle physical workload (OR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.0.23-0.97), vitamin-B complex supplementations (OR = 0.11, 95%CI: 0.03-0.41), calcium and iron (OR = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.08-0.90) supplementations were associated with reduced risk of NSCL/P in offspring. These variables together explain nearly 60% of the variation of occurrence of NSCL/P. These findings from our study may help to develop primary prevention strategies for NSCL/P in Xinjiang.

CASE OF HIATUS HERNIA: AN AGGRAVATING FACTOR FOR IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract - Hiatus hernia (HH) is the herniation of stomach into the chest cavity through diaphragm. HH is idiopathic and hence its exact cause is not known; possible causes are age related changes in diaphragm and inborn large hiatus. [1] Cameron lesions are yet another indicative for hiatus hernia. The purpose of this case report is highlighting various sources of the above condition which lead to worsened patient condition leading to hospitalization. Current case is a presentation of heme fibroid, duodenal Cameron lesion and type 1 hiatus hernia leading to worsened iron deficiency anaemia. For the efficient management of patient a proton pump inhibitor and vitamin B complex was advised. Key words: Hiatus Hernia, Iron deficiency Anemia, Proton Pump Inhibitor, Heme Fibroid

Surface Interactions between Bacterial Nanocellulose and B-Complex Vitamins.

The interactions between films of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) and B complex vitamins were studied using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). Thin films of BNC were generated in situ by QCM-D, followed by real-time measurements of the vitamin adsorption. The desorption of vitamins was induced by rinsing the system using phosphate buffers at a pH of 2 and 6.5, emulating gastric conditions. Changes in frequency (which are proportional to changes in adsorbed mass, ∆m) detected by QCM-D were used to determine the amounts of vitamin adsorbed and released from the BNC film. Additionally, changes in dissipation (∆D) were proven to be useful in identifying the effects of the pH in both pristine cellulose films and films with vitamin pre-adsorbed, following its changes during release. The effects of pH on the morphology of the vitamin-BNC surfaces were also monitored by changes in rugosity from images obtained by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Based on this data, we propose a model for the binding phenomena, with the contraction on the relaxation of the cellulose film depending on pH, resulting in an efficient vitamin delivery process.

The Emerging Role of Nutraceuticals and Phytochemicals in the Prevention and Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.

One of the major challenges of medical sciences has been finding a reliable compound for the pharmacological treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). As most of the drugs directed to a variety of targets have failed in finding a medical solution, natural products from Ayurvedic medicine or nutraceutical compounds emerge as a viable preventive therapeutics' pathway. Considering that AD is a multifactorial disease, nutraceutical compounds offer the advantage of a multitarget approach, tagging different molecular sites in the human brain, as compared with the single-target activity of most of the drugs used for AD treatment. We review in-depth important medicinal plants that have been already investigated for therapeutic uses against AD, focusing on a diversity of pharmacological actions. These targets include inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, β-amyloid senile plaques, oxidation products, inflammatory pathways, specific brain receptors, etc., and pharmacological actions so diverse as anti-inflammatory, memory enhancement, nootropic effects, glutamate excitotoxicity, anti-depressants, and antioxidants. In addition, we also discuss the activity of nutraceutical compounds and phytopharmaceuticals formulae, mainly directed to tau protein aggregates mechanisms of action. These include compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, morin, delphinidins, quercetin, luteolin, oleocanthal, and meganatural-az and other phytochemicals such as huperzine A, limonoids, azaphilones, and aged garlic extract. Finally, we revise the nutraceutical formulae BrainUp-10 composed of Andean shilajit and B-complex vitamins, with memory enhancement activity and the control of neuropsychiatric distress in AD patients. This integrated view on nutraceutical opens a new pathway for future investigations and clinical trials that are likely to render some results based on medical evidence.

Development and Characterization of Inkjet Printed Edible Films for Buccal Delivery of B-Complex Vitamins

Buccal films containing two vitamins, i.e., thiamine hydrochloride (THCl) and nicotinic acid (NA), were fabricated via two-dimensional (2D) inkjet printing. For the preparation of buccal films, solubility studies and rheological evaluations were conducted in distilled water and propylene-glycol (PG) as main solvent and viscosity/surface tension modifier, respectively. The increased solubility in the solvents’ mixture indicated that manufacturing of several doses of the THCl and NA is achievable. Various doses were deposited onto sugar-sheet substrates, by increasing the number of printing passes. The physiochemical characterization (SEM, DSC, FTIR) revealed that inkjet printing does not affect the solid state of the matrix. Water uptake studies were conducted, to compare the different vitamin-loaded formulations. The in vitro release studies indicated the burst release of both vitamins within 10 min, a preferable feature for buccal administration. The in vitro permeation studies indicated that higher concentrations of the vitamins onto the sugar sheet improved the in vitro permeation performance of printed formulations.

Fortified vegetarian milk for prevention of metabolic syndrome in rats: impact on hepatic and vascular complications

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized as a gathering of various metabolic disorders, for example, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and obesity. The present research was conducted to prepare fortified almond milk as functional beverages and evaluate their protective effect against MetS and associated hepatic and vascular complications. Three beverages (I, II, and III) were prepared by fortification almond milk with carrot juice or powder of quinoa seeds and carrot juice or oat powder and banana juice. The sensory attributes, physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds (total phenolic, beta-carotene, tocopherols) and B-complex vitamins were determined in the beverages. In-vitro antioxidant activity of the beverages was assessed. MetS was induced in rats via feeding on high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHF). The biochemical (lipid profile, oxidative stress, liver, and kidney functions), nutritional and histopathological parameters were assessed in rats. The beverage I recorded the highest sensory attributes' scores. The physicochemical properties of the beverages revealed that acidity and viscosity of all beverages ranged from 4.55 to 4.88 and from 40 to 59, respectively. The beverage I showed the highest content of alpha-tocopherol (14.994 μg/g) and beta-carotene (104.541 μg/g), while the beverage II showed the highest content of gamma-tocopherol (0.557 μg/g), folic acid (0.806 μg/g), and total phenols (147.43 μg GAE/g). The results of animals revealed that the beverage II was the most promising in attenuation levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, malondialdehyde, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Also, the beverage II was the superior in the protection of the liver and heart tissues as reflected by the histopathological examination findings. So, it can be concluded that the newly prepared almond milk with quinoa seeds and carrot juice could be used as an effective functional beverage for the prevention of MetS and its complications.

Penyakit Orf Pada Kambing (Studi Kasus di CV Mitra Farm, Bogor, Jawa Barat)

Goats are livestock that is classified as small ruminants. One of the factors that influence goat productivity is health management. Health management is a disease control process so that livestock productivity can be maximized. One of the goat diseases in CV Mitra Tani Farm is an 'orf' disease. "Orf" is a scab that attacks the area around the goat's mouth. The ‘orf’ disease is caused by a zoonotic virus. Orf can cause goats to have difficulty in consuming food, so that the goats become thin, and increase morbidity. The purpose of this Final Project was to determine the occurrence of 'orf' disease in goats in CV Mitra Tani Farm. PE goats and pea goats were used as observation material. Observation, interviews, and secondary data collection were used to collect data in the CV. Mitra Tani Farm. Based on the observations of ‘orf’ disease in CV Mitra Tani Farm can be concluded that the clinical symptoms seen are blisters in the area around the mouth on the edge of the right lip. Orf disease management in the CV. Mitra Tani Farm was cleaning scabs around the mouth and administration of drugs in the form of gusanex® and vitamin B-complex. Keywords: Goat, orf disease, management

Minireview Exploring the Biological Cycle of Vitamin B3 and Its Influence on Oxidative Stress: Further Molecular and Clinical Aspects.

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is one of the most important compounds of the B-vitamin complex. Recent reports have demonstrated the involvement of vitamin B3 in a number of pivotal functions which ensure that homeostasis is maintained. In addition, the intriguing nature of its synthesis and the underlying mechanism of action of vitamin B3 have encouraged further studies aimed at deepening our understanding of the close link between the exogenous supply of B3 and how it activates dependent enzymes. This crucial role can be attributed to the gut microflora and its ability to shape human behavior and development by mediating the bioavailability of metabolites. Recent studies have indicated a possible interconnection between the novel coronavirus and commensal bacteria. As such, we have attempted to explain how the gastrointestinal deficiencies displayed by SARS-CoV-2-infected patients arise. It seems that the stimulation of a proinflammatory cascade and the production of large amounts of reactive oxygen species culminates in the subsequent loss of host eubiosis. Studies of the relationhip between ROS, SARS-CoV-2, and gut flora are sparse in the current literature. As an integrated component, oxidative stress (OS) has been found to negatively influence host eubiosis, in vitro fertilization outcomes, and oocyte quality, but to act as a sentinel against infections. In conclusion, research suggests that in the future, a healthy diet may be considered a reliable tool for maintaining and optimizing our key internal parameters.

Effect of Meat Sources on Nutritional Composition and Heavy Metal Profile of Suya (A West African Grilled Meat)

Objective:This study investigated the effect of meat sources on amino acids, vitamin, minerals and heavy metal profile in suya.Methods:Meat of cow (beef), goat (veal), sheep (mutton) and chicken samples were obtained from Ibadan, Nigeria. Forty (40) samples of each suya meat of cow (beef), goat (veal), sheep (mutton) and chicken were prepared. The amino acid analysis, vitamin, mineral and heavy metal profile of the suya samples were determined using standard methods.Results:The results showed that there were significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in the amino acid, vitamin and mineral of suya samples. The amino acid concentration in g/100g crude protein of suya meats of cow, goat (veal), sheep (mutton) and chicken samples for lysine, arginine and leucine were 7.72±0.03, 7.63±0.04, 7.47±0.04 and 7.83±0.03 respectively for lysine; 6.39±0.02, 6.27±0.02, 6.54±0.01 and 6.48±0.02 respectively for arginine and 7.32±0.01, 7.41±0.01, 7.68±0.01 and 7.54±0.01 respectively for leucine. The non-essential amino acids, glutamic acid, aspartic acid and glycine were the most abundant amino acids in all the suya from beef, goat, sheep and chickens meats. The amino acid composition of suya samples from different meat sources was compared with that of a standard protein recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The study showed that the suya samples contained high amounts of vitamin B-complex and minerals, and low amounts of heavy metals.Conclusion:In conclusion, the suya samples from beef, goat, sheep and chickens meats are good sources of lysine, which is severely restricted in cereals, the most important staple food.

Case Report: Homozygous C677T MTHFR Gene Mutation in Male with Hypogonadism

We report a 44-year-old male, who was diagnosed with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism after complaining of erectile dysfunction, depression, and fatigue. He was started on testosterone replacement therapy. He persistently complained of fatigue despite increasing the dose of testosterone over two years and having therapeutic testosterone levels. He was found to have homozygous C677T methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutation. After treatment with folate and B12, his symptoms resolve completely. MTHFR is a key enzyme in the folate pathway, and it plays an essential role in homocysteine metabolism. Homozygous C677T individuals have decreased activity of MTHFR enzyme with increased homocysteine levels, which is associated with increased risk of thrombosis. An association has been reported between C677T variant and male infertility. Patients identified to have hyperhomocysteinemia should be treated with B-complex vitamin supplements. Our case emphasizes other possible etiologies for fatigue and erectile dysfunction in a male with hypogonadism on testosterone therapy. Also, it shows possible association between MTHFR gene mutation and male hypogonadism.

Myo-inositol facilitates salinity tolerance by modulating multiple physiological functions in the turbot Scophthalmus maximus

As a B-complex vitamin that is a compatible organic osmolyte and a component of phosphatidylinositol in biological cell membranes, myo-inositol plays vital roles in responses to salinity stress. A significant increase in the myo-inositol content of the gill of turbot exposed to salinity stress was detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. myo-inositol supplementation provided by immersion or inclusion in the diet significantly extended survival under salinity stress, with the exception of immersion at salinity 0. Transcriptome data indicated that myo-inositol increased physiological capacities related to the steroid biosynthetic process, steroid metabolic process, circadian rhythm, tryptophan metabolism, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, oxidoreductase activity, iron ion binding, and heme binding in turbot. Furthermore, the qPCR results showed that myo-inositol strengthened osmotic regulation, as represented by the expression of ion-channel genes of turbot under salinity stress by stimulating the activities of steroid reductase and antioxidase, modulating immune function, and inhibiting the cell cycle and energy metabolism. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of differentially expressed genes, PPI analysis, and qPCR data showed that signalling pathways associated with steroids including the steroid biosynthetic process, steroid metabolic process, and steroid hormone biosynthesis, mediated by myo-inositol occupy a central place in osmoregulation in turbot.

Bioprospecting of probiotics with antimicrobial activities against Salmonella Heidelberg and that produce B-complex vitamins as potential supplements in poultry nutrition

The demand for animal protein for human consumption has been risen exponentially. Modern animal production practices are associated with the regular use of antibiotics, potentially increasing the emerging multi-resistant bacteria, which may have a negative impact on public health. In poultry production, substances capable of maximizing the animals’ performance and displaying an antimicrobial activity against pathogens are very well desirable features. Probiotic can be an efficient solution for such a task. In the present work, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from chicken cecum and screened for their antagonistic effect towards many pathogens. Their capacity of producing the B-complex vitamins folate and riboflavin were also evaluated. From 314 isolates, three (C43, C175 and C195) produced Bacteriocin-Like Inhibitory Substances (BLIS) against Staphylococcus aureus (inhibition zones of 18.9, 21.5, 19.5 mm, respectively) and also inhibited the growth of Salmonella Heidelberg. The isolate C43 was identified as Enterococcus faecium, while C173 and C195 were both identified as Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis. Moreover, the isolates L. lactis subsp. lactis strains C173 and C195 demonstrated high potential to be used as probiotic in poultry feed, in addition to their advantage of producing folate (58.0 and 595.5 ng/mL, respectively) and riboflavin (223.3 and 175.0 ng/mL, respectively).

Hematobiochemical, pathomorphological and therapeutic features of Ficus tsjahela toxicity in Malnad Gidda cattle

Malnad Gidda cattle native of Western Ghat districts of Karnataka do consume the leaves of Ficus tsjahela accidently and succumb to toxicity. The clinical signs of the toxicity include initial excitation, paddling movements, stereotypic gnawing behavior, ataxia, salivation, hyperaesthesia, nystagmus, generalized tonic clonic seizures, recumbency and eating inanimate objects. The affected Malnad Gidda were managed successfully with administration of diazepam @ 0.5 mg/kg i/v, B-complex vitamin inj 10 ml per animal deep IM, 10% dextrose solution 5-10 ml/kg slow IV 2 times a day at 10 to 12 h for a duration of 3-4 days with administration of activated charcoal @ 2g/kg orally. The estimated hematological parameters like Hb, TC, DLC etc. were unaltered. There was an increasing in serum biochemical parameters like ALT, AST, BUN, creatinine and glucose and no change in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus In post mortem, the gross lesions were extensive hemorrhage in brain and histology revealed the degenerative changes in the neurons and glial cells. Phytoconstituents like glycosides, diterpenes, tannins, terpenes, steroids, lactones and flavonoids were detected in methanol extract of the plant leaf.

Chinese star anise (Illicium verum) and pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium) as natural alternatives for organic farming and health care- A review

Botanical insecticides keep attracting more attention from environmental and small farmers worldwide as they are considered as a suitable alternative to synthetic insecticides. The outstanding properties of pyrethrum include rapid action, low mammalian toxicity, broad spectrum of activity, lack of insect immunity, lack of persistence and of course effective insect repellent. Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide which has many properties, but the most important are rapid action, very low toxicity for mammalian, lack of insect immunity, broad of activity, lack of persistence and quick degradation by UV-sunlight and very effective insect repellent. Using natural pesticide may lead to organic farming, and advantage of organic farming is more beneficial to biodiversity and the environment, which reduces dietary exposure to pesticides. Chinese star anise has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal characters. It is useful in treatment of diseases like asthma, bronchitis and dry cough. One of its most compounds is Shikimic acid which is used as a drug in curing influenza and flu virus. It also consists of Linalool which is good for overall health because of its anti-oxidants characters. Its seeds are good source of minerals like calcium, iron, copper, potassium, manganese, zinc, and magnesium. The seeds are a great source of essential B-complex vitamins such as pyridoxine, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin. Chinese star anise is also a good source of anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin-C and vitamin-A. The essential oil of Star anise contains anethole which has shown several functional properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and oestrogenic properties. Star anise primarily contains anethole and fatty oil. Its essential oil has a sweetish, burning flavor and a highly aromatic odor. Organic farmers may use these two ancient Chinese herbs which can lead to industrial sustainability.

Biochemical characterisation and application of keratinase from Bacillus thuringiensis MT1 to enable valorisation of hair wastes through biosynthesis of vitamin B-complex

This study reports on the exploitation of keratinous hydrolysate by keratinase enzymes to produce vitamin B-complex. Toward this end, keratinase enzyme was produced by Bacillus thuringiensis strain MT1, newly isolated from cattle-yard utilising donkey hairs. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) analyses demonstrated hairs disintegration and the disruption of the disulphide bonds of the keratin structure, respectively. The biochemical characterisation of the produced enzyme exhibited optimal activity of 422 U/ml at 50 °C and pH 9 with a molecular mass of 80 kDa. The enzyme activity was entirely deactivated by Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), implying the existence of a metallokeratinase group. Donkey hairs were thus treated with metallokeratinase, emancipating eight essential and eight more non-essential amino acids, which were identified employing amino acid analyser. These amino acids were subsequently utilised by Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain ATCC 64712, at different concentrations, to produce vitamin B-complex. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed the synthesis of vitamins B1, B2, and B12 at various levels associated with concentrations of supplemented amino acids. This report thus highlights the feasible application of keratinase enzyme as an eco-friendly approach to managing hair waste, and concurrently promotes the implementation of hair-based hydrolysate in vitamin B-complex biosynthesis.