Brine Shrimp Larvae Research Articles

Characterization and antibacterial evaluation of Eco-friendly silver nanoparticles synthesized by halophilic Streptomyces rochei SSCM102 isolated from mangrove sediment.

Antimicrobial resistance has surged due to widespread antimicrobial drug use, prompting interest in biosynthesizing nanoparticles from marine-derived actinomycetes extracellular metabolites, valued for their diverse bioactive compounds. This approach holds promise for addressing the urgent need for novel antimicrobial agents. The current study aimed to characterize novel bioactive compounds from unexplored biodiversity hotspots, halophilic Streptomyces sp. isolated from mangrove sediment in the Pichavaram region, India. Streptomyces rochei SSCM102 was conclusively identified through morphological and molecular characterization. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Streptomyces rochei SSCM102 was characterized using various techniques, including UV-Vis, XRD, SEM, EDX, and FT-IR. The UV-Vis spectrum of the reduced AgNPs exhibited a prominent peak at 380nm, confirming the AgNPs. The UV-Vis spectrum confirmed the synthesis of AgNP, and SEM analysis revealed a cubic morphology with sizes ranging from 11 to 21nm. The FTIR spectrum demonstrated a shift in frequency widths between 626cm-1 and 3432cm-1. The EDX analysis substantiated the presence of metallic silver, evident from a strong band at 1.44keV. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited antibacterial efficacy against human pathogens Escherichia coli (64 ± 0.32µg/ml), Klebsiella pneumoniae (32 ± 0.16µg/ml), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16 ± 0.08µg/ml) by MIC and MBC values of 128 ± 0.64 (µg/ml), 64 ± 0.32 (µg/ml) and 32 ± 0.16 (µg/ml), respectively. Additionally, at a concentration of 400µg/ml, the AgNPs displayed a 72% inhibition of DPPH radicals, indicating notable antioxidant capacity. The LC50 value of 130µg/mL indicates that the green-synthesized AgNPs have lower toxicity by Brine Shrimp Larvae assay. The study's novel approach to synthesizing eco-friendly silver nanoparticles using Halophilic Streptomyces rochei SSCM102 contributes significantly to the field of biomedical research and drug development. By demonstrating potent antibacterial properties and aligning with sustainability goals, these nanoparticles offer promising avenues for novel antibacterial therapies.

Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds, Release Profiles, and Toxicity Test from Microcapsules Containing R. tuberosa L. Extracts Utilizing Gum Arabic

This study is essential to analyze the toxicity and release of bioactive compounds in R. tuberosa L. extract microcapsules coated with gum Arabic and to provide information on the use of microcapsules as a drug delivery system with controlled release of active ingredients. Investigations focused on the effect of pH and timing on discharge kinetics, as well as toxicity evaluation. The release of active ingredients from microcapsules was carried out in medium variations, namely pH 2.2 and pH 7.4, with release durations of 30, 60-, 90-, 120-, and 150-min. Bioactive compounds were released by 59.23% at pH 2.2 and 58.21% at pH 7.4 within 150 min. The BSLT (brine shrimp lethal toxicity) assay was used using brine shrimp larvae (Artemia salina L.), resulting in a non-toxic classification as evidenced by an LC50 value of 5729 μg/mL. Microcapsules in optimum conditions were then characterized using FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared) and SEM (scanning electron microscopy) instruments. The FTIR analysis showed variations in functional groups in R. tuberosa L. extracts, gum Arabic, and microcapsules. Furthermore, the SEM examination highlighted the morphology of microcapsules that were mostly spherical.

Phytochemical investigation, in-vitro antiplasmodial assessment and cytotoxic effect of ethanol extract of whole plant of Crotalaria arenaria (Benth)

Crotataria arenaria (Benth) is a native plant from Northern part of Nigeria which is employed as antimalarial herb in traditional medicine in the communities where it grows. The phytochemical composition, In-vitro antiplasmodial activity and in-vitro cytotoxic effect of the extract and fractions of the whole plant of Crotalaria arenaria were investigated. The mature and fresh whole plant of C. arenaria were collected, air dried and pulverized. The pulverized form of the plant were soaked in ethanol for two weeks and later decanted, filtered and concentrated using rotatory evaporator at 40oC and evaporated to dryness and labeled CRA-1. The dried ethanol solid extract (CRA-1) was patitioned/fractionated using water, chloroform, ethyl acetate, 18% aqueous methanol, n-hexane which afforded chloroform fraction (CRA-1-01), water fraction (CRA-1-02), ethyl acetate fraction (CRA-1-03) aqueous methanol fraction (CRA-1-04) and n-hexane (CRA - 1- 05) and they were dried and tested for their photochemicals and In-vitro antiplasmdial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strain (K1). The ethanol extract and its fractions were found to significantly inhibited/suppressed multi-drug resistant strain of P. falciparium (K1) in the range of 86.73% - 65.31% at varied concentrations of 5000 µg/ml, 2000 µg/ml, 1000 µg/ml and 500 µg/ml. The ethanol extract and its fractions showed the presence of tannins, saponins and alkaloids which could be responsible for the In-vitro antiplasmodial activity of the whole plant extract of C. arenaria and each of its fractions. Ethanol crude extracts of whole plant of Crotalaria arenaria and its fractions were investigated for cytotoxicity in Brine shrimp lethality Test (BSLT). Larvicidal activities were noticed with dosage concentration from 1000 µg/ml down to 10 µg/ml of the plant extract and all its fractions. The relative cytotoxic effects of extract and fractions obtained from whole plant of Crotalaria arenaria were found to be dose-dependent because higher dosage brought about an increase in mortality of Artemia salina Leach. Sea salty water of the crude ethanol extract and its fractions served as the negative control. The chloroform fraction was observed to be most cytotoxic killing 30% of brine shrimp larvae at lowest concentration of 10 µg/ml with average percentage lethality of 46.67%. Aqueous methanol and ethanol crude extract appears to show similar and closely related activities against brine shrimp larvae at highest concentration of 1000 µg/ml. The ethanol crude extract and aqueous methanol fractions are toxic at higher dosage as they were found to induce significant mortality effect (In-vitro) against Artemia salina Leach particularly at concentration of 1000 µg/ml and therefore not safe for oral consumption especially at higher uncontrolled doses but at relatively low/moderate doses. The findings in this present study demonstrated that the extract of C. arenaria (whole plant) and fractions have significant in vitro antiplasmodial activity and this has justified the traditional use of the whole plant extract of Crotaria arenaria in the folklore medicine to cure malaria related illness. The results obtained in this study may serve as key data for utilization of Crotalaria arenaria in the development of bioactive agents which could be used as antimalarial, anticancer, pesticidal, insecticidal and anti-proliferation agents. The study recommended in-vivo antiplasmodial assay of the extract of the whole plant of Crotalaria arenaria to further substantiate the findings of this present study.

Purification of andibenin and a chromanone analogue from rhizospheric Aspergillus flavus and soil-borne Penicillium notatum exhibiting cytotoxic and antibacterial properties

ABSTRACT The discovery of bioactive compounds from fungal natural sources holds immense potential for the development of novel therapeutics. The present study investigates the extracts of soil-borne Penicillium notatum and rhizosphere-inhabiting Aspergillus flavus for their antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic potential. Additionally, two compounds were purified using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. The results demonstrated that the ethyl acetate fraction of A. flavus exhibited prominent cytotoxic activity against Artemia salina, whereas the ethyl acetate fraction of P. notatum displayed promising antibacterial potential. At dose concentrations of 10, 100, and 1000 µg mL−1, the ethyl acetate fraction of A. flavus showed mortality percentages of 7.6%, 66.4%, and 90%, respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction of P. notatum extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity, forming inhibition zones measuring 41, 38, 34, 34, and 30 mm against B. subtilis, S. flexneri, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and S. aureus, respectively, at 1000 µg mL−1. At this concentration, inhibition zones of 28, 27, and 15 mm were recorded for P. vulgaris, S. typhi, and X. oryzae. Using bioassay-guided approach, one compound each was purified from the fungal extracts. The initial purification involved mass spectroscopic analysis, followed by structural elucidation using 500 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Compound 1, derived from A. flavus, was identified as ethyl 2-hydroxy-5,6-dimethyl-4-oxocyclohex-2-ene-1-carboxylate, with a mass of 212, whereas compound 2, isolated from P. notatum, was identified as 3-amino-2-(cyclopenta-2,4-dien-1-ylamino)-8-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one, with an exact mass of 270. Based on bioassay results, compound 1 was subjected to brine shrimp lethality assay and compound 2 was tested for its antibacterial potential. Compound 1 exhibited 30% lethality against brine shrimp larvae at a concentration of 100 µg mL−1, whereas at 1000 µg mL−1 the mortality increased to 70%. Compound 2 displayed notable antibacterial potential, forming inhibition zones of 30, 24, 19, and 12 mm against S. aureus, E. coli, B. subtilis, and S. flexneri, respectively. In comparison, the standard antibiotic tetracycline produced inhibition zones of 18, 18, 15, and 10 mm against the respective bacterial strains at the same concentration.

Extraction, characterization, and therapeutic potential of Omega-3 fatty acids from Belone belone skin.

This study provides the fatty acid profile, presence of Omega 3 fatty acids (ω3FAs) and therapeutic potential of the skin of Garfish (Belone belone), a highly nutritious fish. The ω3FAs were obtained using the urea crystallization method and confirmed by UV VIS spectroscopy, HPLC, FT-IR, and NMR. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of the ω3FAs was assessedthrough antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and toxicity assays. The oil extracted fromGarfish skin (GS)predominantly contains ω3FAs, palmitic acids, and oleic acids. The ω3FAs exhibit high anti-free radical activity and ferric reducing activity. It reduces nitric oxide production as well as lipid peroxidation under certain time. They also demonstrateeffective antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The biofilm formation is efficiently reduced by ω3FAs and eradication effects on biofilm are higher at 4000µg/mL of concentration. When tested against brine shrimp larvae, ω3FAs were found to be non-toxic. The studyindicates thatGS skin oil contains asignificant amountof omega-3 fatty acids andhas potential therapeutic benefits due toits antioxidant and antibacterial properties,withoutcausing anytoxic effects.Omega-3 fatty acids have the potential toenhance the treatment ofinfections caused byharmfulbacteria and their biofilm formation.Further research is needed to understand how omega-3 fatty acids work to kill bacteriaand how theyaffect bacterial gene expression.

Bioremediation potential of biochar and metal tolerant Bacillus cereus on heavy metal polluted mine surrounding pond and assessed cytotoxicity and phytotoxicity attributes of treated water on Brine shrimp larvae and Paddy seedling

BackgroundThe soil has been polluted severely with metals leached from mine tailings. Thus, these mine tailings can also reduce the fertility of farmland nearby the mining activities. The research was performed to assess the physicochemical attributes of water sample collected from magnesite mine surrounding pond and evaluate the bioremediation potential of pre-characterized biochar and Bacillus cereus under various treatments set up in a laboratory condition. MethodsStandard acid digestion method was followed to quantify the metal content in the soil. In-vitro remediation method was performed to determine the remediation potential of biochar and B. cereus. In-vitro method was followed to find the toxicity on Artemia franciscana larvae and Orysa sativa. FindingsThe results shows that the heavy metal contents like As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Cl−, SO42−, as well as Hg beyond the permissible limit. The dissolved oxygen (DO) level was also notably poor. The bioremediation study with various treatment groups (BT1, BT2, BT3, and BT4) showed that the group BT2 (biochar + B. cereus) effectively reduced the heavy metals in the treated pond water under 10 days of exposure. Furthermore, the BT2 treated water sample alone showed no toxic effects on A. franciscana larvae and O. sativa.

Morphology, molecular phylogeny and toxicity of Fukuyoa paulensis (Dinophyceae) from the Bay of Bengal, North Indian Ocean

Abstract Fukuyoa species are potential producers of polyether neurotoxins that are toxic to aquatic biota and humans. A strain of Fukuyoa (CSIRCSMCRI 004) was isolated from India’s Bay of Bengal coast. The clonal culture was identified using light and scanning electron microscopy and molecular phylogenetic analysis of the LSU rRNA gene and ITS (ITS1-5.8S gene-ITS2) sequences. Its toxicity was assessed using a 48 h Artemia bioassay. The morphological features observed included globular shape, descending cingular displacement, broad pentagonal 1′ plate, and large second apical plate (2′). The identity of the strain was confirmed to be F. paulensis based on the LSU rRNA gene and ITS sequences phylogenies. Strain CSIRCSMCRI 004 shared an identical sequence with the type strain of F. paulensis and other strains reported from different locations, based on the LSU rRNA gene and ITS sequences phylogenies. Exposure of brine shrimp larvae to its cellular lysate resulted in lethality (48 h LC50 = 0.256 mg ml−1) and behavioral abnormalities. The current study provides the first evidence of F. paulensis in the Bay of Bengal. It also reveals that CSIRCSMCRI 004 is toxic to susceptible biota like the brine shrimp and could produce ciguatera-associated toxins. The findings of this study highlight the need for sampling and screening of ciguatera-related species in the Bay of Bengal region to understand the associated public and environmental health risks.

Molecular Docking Study of Phytosterols in Lygodium microphyllum Towards SIRT1 and AMPK, the in vitro Brine Shrimp Toxicity Test, and the Phenols and Sterols Levels in the Extract.

Lygodium microphyllum is a fern plant with various pharmacological activities, and phytosterols were reported contained in the n-hexane and ethyl acetate extract of this plant. Phytosterols are known to inhibit steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are the key proteins that control lipogenesis. However, information about L. microphyllum on SIRT1 and AMPK is still lacking. This study aims to investigate the binding mode of phytosterols in L. microphyllum extract towards AMPK and SIRT1, and the toxicity of the extract against brine shrimp (Artemia salina) larvae, and to determine the phenols and sterols levels in the extract. The molecular docking was performed towards SIRT1 and AMPK using AutoDock v4.2.6, the toxicity of the extract was assayed against brine shrimp (Artemia salina) larvae, and the phytosterols were analyzed by employing a thin layer chromatography densitometry, and the total phenols were by spectrophotometry. The molecular docking study revealed that β-sitosterol and stigmasterol could occupy the active allosteric-binding site of SIRT1 and AMPK by binding to important residues similar to the protein's activators. The cold extraction of the plant yields 15.86% w/w. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of phenols, steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins. The total phenols are equivalent to 126 mg gallic acid (GAE)/g dry extract, the total sterols are 954.04 µg/g, and the β-sitosterol level is 283.55 µg/g. The LC50 value of the extract towards A. salina larvae is 203.704 ppm. Lygodium microphyllum extract may have the potential to be further explored for its pharmacology activities, particularly in the discovery of plant-based anti-dyslipidemic drug candidates. However, further studies are needed to confirm their roles in alleviating lipid disorders.

Evaluation of phytochemical, antibacterial, thrombolytic, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxicity profile of Achyranthes aspera aerial part extracts

This investigation was designed and performed to compare the phytochemical profiling, activities of antibacterial, thrombolytic, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxicity of methanol extract (ME-E) and aqueous extract (AQ-E) of aerial parts of Achyranthes aspera through in-vitro approach. Also characterize the functional groups of bioactive compounds in the ME-E through Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis. Interestingly, qualitative phytochemical screening proved that the ME-E contain more number of vital phytochemicals such as phenolics. saponins, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, and phlobatannins than AQ-E. Similarly, the ME-E showed notable antibacterial activity as dose dependent manner against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 1000 μg mL−1 concentration. ME-E also showed 75.2 ± 2% of clot lysis (thrombolytic activity) at 1000 μg mL−1 dosage and it followed by AQ-E 51.24 ± 3%. The ME-E showed moderate and AQ-E demonstrate poor anti-inflammatory activity evidenced by albumin denaturation inhibition and anti-lipoxygenase assays. Furthermore, the ME-E demonstrated a dose dependent cytotoxicity was noted against brine shrimp larvae. In support of this ME-E considerable activities, the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed that this extract contain more number peaks attributed to the stretch of various essential functional groups belongs to different bioactive compounds. Hence this ME-E of A. aspera can be considered for further in depth scientific investigations to validate their maximum biomedical potential.

Two New Lactam Derivatives from Micromelum falcatum (Lour.) Tan. with Brine Shrimp Larvae Toxicity.

Chemical investigation of the stems of Micromelum falcatum (Lour.) Tan. led to the isolation of two new lactam derivatives, named 3-(hydroxy(10-hydroxyphenyl)methyl)-4-(16-hydroxyphenyl)-1-methylpyrrolidin-2-one (1) and 3-(hydroxy(10-hydroxy-9-methoxyphenyl)methyl)-4-(16-hydroxyphenyl)-1-methylpyrrolidin-2-one (2), along with five known compounds, trans-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (3), 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4), m-hydroxybenzoic acid (5), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (6), and gallic acid (7). Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic studies, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum, mass spectrometry (MS) data, ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, infrared (IR) data, and comparison with the literature. All compounds were evaluated for toxicity against brine shrimp larvae and cytotoxicity to HeLa and HepG-2 cells. Compounds 1-2 exhibited moderate brine shrimp larvae toxicity with an LC50 value of 50.6 and 121.8 μg mL-1, respectively.

Toxicity Studies and in vivo Antiplasmodial Evaluation of Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts of Terminalia avicennioides

Malaria is one of the most serious infectious diseases found in the tropics and subtropics. P. falcifarum resistance to almost all anti-malarial drugs has necessitated the search for anti-malarial compounds. The aim of this study is to investigate the antiplasmodial effects of crude leaf and stem bark extracts of T. avicennioides, a plant utilized by traditional healers in Northern Nigeria to treat malaria and other ailments. Brine shrimp lethality (cytotoxicity) assay and acute toxicity were also evaluated, which are considered a useful tool for preliminary assessment of toxicity in plant extracts. The median lethal dosage (LD50) was calculated by administering different doses of the extract (100–4000 mg/kg) intraperitoneally to three groups of three mice each for 24 hours and observing the animals for physical sign of toxicity. Three models were employed to assess the extracts antiplasmodial effectiveness in vivo against the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei: suppressive, curative, and repository. The leaf and stem bark extracts were found to show significant toxicity to brine shrimp larvae of Artemia salina in the brine shrimp lethality test with LC50 values of >1000 and 29.6 respectively. Excitation, paw licking, and death were symptoms of acute toxicity of the extracts based on physical and behavioral observations. Death was recorded at 1000 mg/Kg of the stem bark extract and the LD50 is ≤100 mg/Kg body weight while for the leaf extract it was estimated to be ≤600 mg/Kg with no death record. In vivo evaluation revealed that the extracts significantly (P <0.05) reduced parasite count in all models (suppressive, curative and prophylactic), with high average percentage inhibition of parasitaemia (54.68, 58.67 and 65.61%) seen in both T. avicennioides leaf and stem bark extracts, which was comparable to that produced by chloroquine and artesunate, respectively (64.31&93.1; 70.08&80.67; 63.40&75.20%). Both extracts had moderate antiplasmodial activity and were non-toxic to mice and brine shrimps. This finding validates the plant's traditional use in malaria treatment.

Textile effluents decolourization potential of metal tolerant Aspergillus species and optimization of biomass concentration and temperature

This research was performed to assess the physicochemical properties of textile effluents collected from different sampling points (industrial park, Hosur, Tamil Nadu, India) and also evaluate the multiple metal tolerance efficiency of pre-isolated Aspergillus flavus. Moreover, their textile effluent decolourization potential was investigated and quantity and temperature required for effective bioremediation was optimized. About 5 textile effluent samples (S0, S1, S2, S3, and S4) were collected from various sampling points and noted that certain physicochemical properties (pH: 9.64 ± 0.38, Turbidity: 18.39 ± 1.4 NTU, Cl−: 3185.38 ± 15.8 mg L−1, BOD: 82.52 ± 6.9 mg L−1, COD: 342.28 ± 8.9 mg L−1, Ni: 74.21 ± 4.31 mg L−1, Cr: 48.52 ± 18.34 mg L−1, Cd: 34.85 ± 1.2 mg L−1, Zn: 25.52 ± 2.4 mg L−1, Pb: 11.25 ± 1.5 mg L−1, Hg: 1.8 ± 0.05 mg L−1, and As: 7.1 ± 0.41 mg L−1) were beyond the permissible limits. The A. flavus, showed remarkable metal tolerance to Pb, As, Cr, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, and Zn on PDA plates with elevated dosage up to 1000 μg mL−1. The optimal dosage required for effective decolourization was found as 3 g (48.2%) and compare to dead biomass (42.1%) of A. flavus, the viable biomass showed remarkable decolourization activity on textile effluents in a short duration of treatment process. The optimal temperature for effective decolourization by viable biomass was found at 32 ᵒC. The toxic effects of S4 samples treated at 32 ᵒC on O. sativa as well as brine shrimp larvae were significantly reduced. These findings show that pre-isolated A. flavus viable biomass can be used to decolorize metal-enriched textile effluent. Furthermore, the effectiveness of their metals remediation should be investigated using ex-situ and ex-vivo approaches.

Isolation and identification of pigment-producing filamentous fungus DBFL05 and its pigment characteristics and chemical structure

ABSTRACT Natural pigments derived from microorganisms have many advantages and are widely studied in the food industry. A filamentous fungus, DBFL05, was identified as Aspergillus ustus, which produces a bright and abundant brown pigment. This extracellular, water-soluble pigment is highly polar and slightly soluble in alcohol but insoluble in other organic solvents. The pigment is stable under sunlight, at pH 2–10, and below 100°C. However, it is sensitive to Zn2+, Fe3+, Fe2+, and Cu2+. The pigment is mainly composed of two chemical components, pyrropyrazine diketone and dianthrone, and is classified as a polyketone pigment. Both components of the pigment exhibit inhibitory effects on bacteria and scavenging abilities for •OH and DPPH. The pigment showed no significant toxicity to plants and low toxicity to brine shrimp larvae. These findings indicate that the easily obtainable A. ustus pigment is a polyketone with attractive colour, stability, safety, and bioactivity.

Myrochromanol analogues and trichothecene derivatives from the shellfish-derived fungus Albifimbriaverrucaria

Eight myrochromanol analogues, including three pairs of epimers at C-2 with the myrochromanol scaffold and two examples of myrochromanol with sugar moiety linked at C-4, together with twelve trichothecene derivatives were isolated from the cultures of a shellfish-derived fungus Albifimbria verrucaria CD1-4. Among them, eight compounds named 2-epi-myrochromanol, ent-myrochromanol B, 4-epi-myrochromanol B, 2-epi-myrochromanol A, myrochromanosides A and B, 6′,7′-erythro-(2′E,4′Z)-trichoverrol B, 3R,8S-dihyroxyroridin H were previously undescribed fungal metabolites. Their planar structures and relative configurations were established by 1D and 2D NMR, and HR-MS data analysis, and their absolute configurations were determined using the modified Mosher's method and electronic circular dichrosim calculations. Almost all isolates were evaluated for growth rate inhibition of three marine harmful microalgae Chattonella marina, Heterosigma akashiwo, and Prorocentrum donghaiense, and lethal activity to one marine zooplankton, Artemia salina. Myrochromanosides A and B exhibited obvious inhibitory against three tested microalgae with IC50 values in the range of 9.2–108.9 μM. 8α-Hydroxyroridin H, roridin A and verrucarin A exhibited significant inhibition against P. donghaiense with IC50 values of 6.1, 5.8, and 6.0 μM and toxicity against brine shrimp larvae with LC50 values of 1.4, 2.8, and 0.26 μM, respectively.

Ameliorative Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Quercetin and Ascorbic Acid Against Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Induced Hepatic Damage: In Vivo

The current study envisioned to evaluate time related protective effect of quercetin, alpha lipoic acid and ascorbic acid on liver of mice against sub-acute exposure of zinc oxide (ZnO-NP) nanoparticle. Male Swiss albino mice (n=72) were randomly divided into eight groups (n=9, each group). G1 received saline solution 0.9%; G2 received quercetin (100 mg/kg b.w); G3 received alpha lipoic acid (100 mg/kg b.w); G4 received ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg b.w); G5 received ZnO-NPs (50 mg/kg b.w); G6 received ZnO-NPs with quercetin; G7 received ZnO-NPs with Alpha lipoic acid and G8 co-treated with ZnO-NPs and ascorbic acid for 21 consecutive days. Body weight, hepatosomatic index and plasma biochemical parameters (total protein, albumin, globulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoproteins, low density lipoprotein, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase & bilirubin) were estimated. ZnO showed significant increase in body weight and cause alterations in all biochemical parameters. Co-administration of quercetin (100 mg/kg b.w), alpha lipoic acid and ascorbic acid daily along with ZnO-NPs, significantly ameliorate the dramatic alteration in biochemical parameters and hepatocellular necrosis caused by ZnO nanoparticles. Brine shrimp larvae cytotoxicity assay of ZnO nanoparticles showed 0% mortality. Present study concluded that all three active ingredients showed hepatoprotective effects against nanoparticles induced time dependent toxicity.

Alterbutenolide, a new butenolide derivative from a sponge-derived fungus Alternaria alternata I-YLW6-1

Alterbutenolide (1), a new butenolide derivative with a long-chain aliphatic acid substitution, together with seven known phenolic compounds i.e. alternariol (2), asperigillol B (3), p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (4), p-hydroxyphenylethyl alcohol (5), methyl p-hydroxyphenyl acetate (6), 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl acetate (7), and 5,6-dihydro-4-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one (8), was isolated from the cultures of a sponge-derived fungus Alternaria alternata I-YLW6-1. The structure of 1 was established on the basis of HR-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, as well as by comparison of the optical rotation data with the literature reported. Compounds 2 and 3 showed significant to moderate inhibitory activities against three harmful microalgae with IC50 values from 3.0 to 36.2 μg/mL, whereas compound 1 only displayed moderate inhibition against Chattonella marina with IC50 value of 34.6 μg/mL. Meanwhile, compounds 3 and 4 showed weak toxicity against brine shrimp larvae with LC50 values >100 μg/mL.

Thermomyces lanuginosus: A prospective thermophilic fungus for green synthesis and stabilization of BioAgNPs through glucoamylase

HypothesisThe rise of bionanoscience has led to the use of silver nanoparticles in therapeutic and industrial applications like biomedicine, biocatalysis, bioremediation and biosensing. Enhancement of metal nanoparticle stability is of critical significance when it comes to safe handling and efficient use of nanoparticles for various applications. In this regard, thermophilic fungi is a potential candidate with their massive thermostable excretome titres. This work aims to explore the potential of thermophilic fungi to provide surface stability to biogenic silver nanoparticles (BioAgNPs). ExperimentThermophilic fungus Thermomyces lanuginosus STm was used to synthesize BioAgNPs. The size and shape of BioAgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction techniques. The most significant process variables affecting mycosynthesis of BioAgNPs were screened using statistical experimental design of Placket Berman model. The mechanism of mycosynthesis and capping on biogenic nanoparticles was explored using sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). FindingsCharacterization of BioAgNPs by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy revealed surface plasmon resonance at 410 nm, X-ray diffraction calculated 7–24 nm diameter of BioAgNPs and transmission electron microscopy showed BioAgNPs to be spherical with 5–35 nm size range. The physico-chemical factors affecting synthesis of BioAgNPs were screened by statistical modeling using Placket Berman experiment design which revealed the significant role of pH and silver precursor salt concentration on BioAgNPs synthesis. The supramolecular bound protein moiety was initially screened using FTIR analysis. The protein coating around BioAgNPs was found to be 67 kDa glucoamylase when detached from NP and investigated using SDS-PAGE and LCMS/MS analysis. In vitro cytotoxic assay against eukaryotic animal model Artemia salina (brine shrimp) larvae revealed dose dependent decrease in viability indicating BioAgNPs to be less cytotoxic, as compared to silver in ionic form. ConclusionGlucoamylase protein (67 kDa) secreted extracellularly by T. lanuginosus STm was discovered to be the capping protein surrounding BioAgNPs. It is interesting to note that in case of BioAgNPs synthesized by extracellular titre of thermophilic fungus, the adsorbed thermostable protein glucoamylase can possibly help in retaining activity of BioAgNPs at elevated temperature as per the industrial requirement. Thus it can be a natural way of immobilization of enzyme on the surface of nanoparticles while eliminating the extra steps require for immobilizing for commercial uses. In terms of acute toxicity, BioAgNPs were found to be less toxic and safer as compared to ionic silver.

Indole-3-acetic acid increases the survival of brine shrimp challenged with vibrios belonging to the Harveyi clade.

Vibrios belonging to the Harveyi clade (including closely related species such as Vibrio campbellii, Vibrio harveyi and Vibrio parahaemolyticus) are important pathogens of aquatic organisms. In this study, we investigated the use of indole-3-acetic acid to control disease caused by Harveyi clade vibrios. Indole-3-acetic acid, which can be produced by various seaweeds and microalgae, was added to the rearing water of brine shrimp larvae challenged with 12 different Harveyi clade Vibrio strains. Indole-3-acetic acid significantly decreased the virulence of 10 of the strains without any effect on their growth. The latter is important as it will minimize the selective pressure for resistance development. The survival rate of brine shrimp larvae increased from 1.2-fold to 4.8-fold upon treatment with 400 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Additionally, indole-3-acetic acid significantly decreased the swimming motility in 10 of the strains and biofilm formation in eight of the strains. The mRNA levels of the pirA and pirB toxin genes were decreased to 46% and 42% by indole-3-acetic acid in the AHPND-causing strain V.parahaemolyticus M0904. Hence, our data demonstrate that indole-3-acetic acid has the potential to be an effective virulence inhibitor to control infections in aquaculture.

BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF EXTRACTS AND SECONDARY METABOLITE OF Macaranga mappa BARK AS AN ANTIDIABETIC BY α-GLUCOSIDASE INHIBITOR, ANTIOXIDANT, AND CYTOTOXICITY

The biological activities of extracts and isolated compounds of Macaranga mappa stem bark for antidiabetic herbal medicine, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activities have been determined. The antidiabetic, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activities of the sample were carried out by inhibition value of α-glucosidase, DPPH method, and brine shrimp larvae method, respectively. The initial methanol extract and its fractions have good activities against antidiabetics and antioxidants, except for the hexane fraction. The fractions with the highest activity for the antidiabetic and antioxidant tests were the water fraction IC50 6.654 ppm and the butanol fraction IC50 32.34 ppm, respectively. The toxicity test results with the BSLT method showed that all fractions were non-toxic LC50>1000 ppm. The isolated compound from the ethyl acetate fraction was a coumarin derivative, namely scopoletin, with antidiabetic and antioxidant activities.

ScreeningofDodonaea Viscosa Linn (Sapindaceae) for Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activities

The crude ethanol extract of DodonaeaviscosaLinn (Sapindaceae) was partitioned into chloroform, aqueous, ethyl acetate, methanoland n-hexane soluble fractions. The extract and five fractions were tested against the larvae of Artemiasaline[Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BST)]. The aqueous and methanol extracts were found to exhibited remarkable toxicity on brine shrimp larva at LC50value of 0.1326 and 62.5 μg/ml, while no activity recorded in the ethanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane fractions LC50value >1000 μg/ml. The crude ethanol extract and five solvent fractions were tested for antimicrobial activity using agar diffusion method and the results revealed the zone of inhibition 15.0 mm at 10,000μg/ml was exhibited by the aqueous soluble fraction of the leaves of Dodonaeaviscosaagainst S. typhi. Meanwhile, methanol and ethanol fractions of Dodonaeaviscosaexhibited zone of growth inhibition 15mm and 30mm against S. aureus, at 10,000μg/ml.