Field Of Biotechnology Research Articles

3D Printing in Biocatalysis and Biosensing: From General Concepts to Practical Applications.

3D printing has matured into a versatile technique that offers researchers many different printing methods and materials with varying properties. Nowadays, 3D printing is deployed within a myriad of different applications, ranging from chemistry to biotechnology - including bioanalytics, biocatalysis or biosensing. Due to its inherent design flexibility (which enables rapid prototyping) and ease of use, 3D printing is facilitating the relatively quick and easy creation of new devices with unprecedented functions. This review article describes how 3D printing can be employed for research in the fields of biochemistry and biotechnology, and specifically for biocatalysis and biosensor applications. We survey different relevant 3D printing techniques, as well as the surface activation and functionalization of 3D-printed materials. Finally, we show how 3D printing is used for the fabrication of reaction ware and enzymatic assays in biocatalysis research, as well as for the generation of biosensors using aptamers, antibodies, and enzymes as recognition elements.

Effects of light color on growth, nutrient uptake, and harvesting of the indigenous strain of Chlorococcum sp.

Chlorococcum sp. is robust and has dominant growth in aquatic habitats, making it a promising bioresource. This study investigates the batch-wise cultivation and harvesting of Chlorococcum sp. in a standard medium under various lights, followed by biomass harvesting using FeCl3 as a coagulant. The findings highlight the significant impact of light color on growth and nutrient uptake. Specifically, red and blue light promotes growth, followed by white and violet. Following successful cultivation, the coagulation process underwent optimization, determining the optimal dose for harvesting at different cell concentrations (700 mg/L for 3.6 × 106 cells/mL, 600 mg/L for 3.3 × 106 cells/mL, 500 mg/L for 3.2 × 106 cells/mL, and 400 mg/L for 3.0 × 106 cells/mL), each exhibiting high harvesting efficiency. These findings not only advance microalgae cultivation practices but also provide valuable insights into the effective recovery of biomass, potentially expanding the applications of microalgae in various biotechnological fields.

Developing a curriculum cluster in "Synthetic Biology" to cultivate inter-disciplinary and innovative talents for biomanufacturing

Synthetic Biology, as an emerging discipline, has gained widespread attention and is developing rapidly, profoundly impacting the fields of life sciences and biotechnology. Concurrently, as emerging engineering education programs take shape, accelerated cultivation of multifaceted innovative talents represents a new mission and imperative for higher education in China. In the context of the flourishing development of Synthetic Biology, East China University of Science and Technology has established a curriculum cluster in Synthetic Biology, focusing on microbiological drug discovery and biomanufacturing. The teaching team initially reviewed the curriculum system related to Synthetic Biology and its upstream and downstream courses. Subsequently, they expanded the core courses in Synthetic Biology, creating a curriculum cluster that encompasses not only the theoretical foundations and cutting-edge technologies but also integrates with related disciplines. Moreover, the curriculum cluster leverages lectures from renowned domestic and international professors in the State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, and harnesses the rich resources of the Program of Introducing Talents of Discipline to Universities (the "111 plan"), aiming to enhance students' innovation capabilities. With the support of this curriculum cluster and teaching team, undergraduate students actively participate in international Synthetic Biology competitions like international genetic engineering machine competition (iGEM), consistently achieving gold awards. Furthermore, many students have applied for patents and made contributions to research paper publications. This work stands as a valuable exemplar for cultivating multifaceted talents with exceptional innovative capabilities.

Alginate-based bio-nanocomposite reinforced with poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylamide) and magnetite graphene oxide for delivery of etoposide and photothermal therapy

Recently, bio-nanocomposite nanogels/hydrogels composed of natural polymers and carbon-based nanomaterials are attracting increasing attention in the fields of nanomedicine and bioengineering due to their unique properties. In this study, we propose the creation of an innovative multifunctional bio-nanocomposite based on alginate graft copolymer with poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylamide) (SA-g-PHPM) and magnetite graphene oxide (mGO) loaded with etoposide (EPS) for drug delivery and photothermal therapy (PTT). The SA-g-PHPM/mGO bio-nanocomposite was synthesized using an emulsion method and exhibited favorable physicochemical properties. The structural functionalities and surface morphology of the SA-g-PHPM/mGO bio-nanocomposite were comprehensively characterized using spectroscopic techniques, including FT-IR, XRD, UV, DLS, TEM/FE-SEM, and AFM analyses. Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation (808 nm, 1 Wcm−2, 10 min), the SA-g-PHPM/mGO bio-nanocomposite demonstrated the ability to effectively induce a temperature increase exceeding 29 °C. Additionally, exposure to NIR light and magnetic field led to an increased release of EPS whereas an increment in percentage of mGO caused a decreased EPS release. Notably, the synergistic effects of chemotherapy, light-triggered drug release, and PTT collectively contributed to a significant enhancement in lung cancer (H1299) cell death. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the developed SA-g-PHPM/mGO/EPS bio-nanocomposite serves as an efficient vehicle for multimodal therapy in lung cancer.

Tailoring the morphological, optical, electrical, and random lasing properties of ZnO nanorods synthesized on metal surfaces for biosensor applications

Laser-based sensors are taking over their counterparts, fluorescence-based sensors, in the field of bioengineering and space communication due to their high amplification, narrow emission beam, low signal-to-noise ratio, and nonlinearity. In this work, we investigated the chemical growth of ZnO nanorods on different metal surfaces (Au, Pt, Ti, and Al) to serve as random laser mediums. Different analytical techniques were used to investigate the optical, electrical, and morphological properties of the fabricated devices. A lasing threshold of 27.68 mJ/cm² with a spectral width of 2.18 nm centered at 385.06 nm is observed when Ti is used as the growth surface. Al surface produces ZnO nanorods with a lasing threshold of 24.21 mJ/cm² and a spectral width of 1.81 nm. Growing ZnO nanorods on metal surfaces using the chemical bath deposition method paves the way for fabricating different random lasing-based biosensors.

Rational Design of High-Efficiency Synthetic Small Regulatory RNAs and Their Application in Robust Genetic Circuit Performance Through Tight Control of Leaky Gene Expression.

Synthetic sRNAs show promise as tools for targeted and programmable gene expression manipulation. However, the design of high-efficiency synthetic sRNAs is a challenging task that necessitates careful consideration of multiple factors. Therefore, this study aims to investigate rational design strategies that significantly and robustly enhance the efficiency of synthetic sRNAs. This is achieved by optimizing the following parameters: the sRNA scaffold, mRNA binding affinity, Hfq protein expression level, and mRNA secondary structure. By utilizing optimized synthetic sRNAs within a positive feedback circuit, we effectively addressed the issue of gene expression leakage─an enduring challenge in synthetic biology that undermines the reliability of genetic circuits in bacteria. Our designed synthetic sRNAs successfully prevented gene expression leakage, thus averting unintended circuit activation caused by initial expression noise, even in the absence of signal molecules. This result shows that high-efficiency synthetic sRNAs not only enable precise gene knockdown for metabolic engineering but also ensure the robust performance of synthetic circuits. The strategies developed here hold significant promise for broad applications across diverse biotechnological fields, establishing synthetic sRNAs as pivotal tools in advancing synthetic biology and gene regulation.

Mapping global research in the field of health biotechnology for the period 1990–2023. A bibliometric analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study focused on a global longitudinal bibliometric mapping of research in the field of health biotechnology between 1990 and 2023 to determine who is leading this field of knowledge and to estimate the sub-disciplines that are emerging and project those that will prevail in the future. Design/methodology/approach The study identified the most relevant countries, institutions and researchers, as well as the type of scientific collaborations. The applied steps applied in the study were the following: identification and selection of keyword terms by a panel of experts; design and application of an algorithm to identify these selected keywords in titles, abstracts and keywords using Web of Science terms to contrast them; performance of JCR data processing during 2023 using R, Python and VOSviewer. Findings Among the most relevant conclusions of the study are the following exponential growth has been observed in the study period; new branches of knowledge have emerged in which the subjects have been acquiring their own autonomous capabilities; and R&D in this field is still concentrated in a small group of core countries, and the trend is for it to remain so due to the capacity needs required. Originality/value This contribution seeks to systematize the existing scientific knowledge in the field of biotechnology, specifically in the area of health, using the technique of scientific mapping based on a logical model of indicators that aims to determine potential thematic ramifications.

Strategies and Techniques for Enhancing Fish Health and Averting Disease Outbreaks in Aquaculture Settings through the Use of Vaccination: A Review

The fastest–growing animal food-producing agricultural sector in the world is aquaculture, which accounts for almost half of the world’s food fish production.However, the expansion of high-density fish populations also brings forth a challenge–the rapid transmission and spread of infectious agents including several viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases. Expansion and successful development of sustainable aquaculture practice and increasing production largely depends upon the prevention and control of outbreaks of several emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases which can result in economic loss, food safety hazards, and environmental hazards. Vaccination strategies have become highly effective and economical in protecting the health of fish and other aquaculture organisms from various infectious diseases such as edwardsiellosis, motile aeromonas septicemia (MAS), Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) disease, infectious salmon anemia (ISA), vibriosis, and white spot disease etc. An ideal vaccine is expected to be safe, effective, economical, and easily administered. Most of the available fish vaccines are empirically designed vaccines based on inactivated or live attenuated bacterin vaccines. Novel advances in the fields of immunology, biotechnology, and molecular biology have led to the development in designing novel and effective fish vaccines and the improvement of the existing vaccines to provide sufficient immune protection against diseases. This review investigates the currently available fish vaccines for use in finfish aquaculture against different infectious diseases different mode of vaccine administration with addressing pros and cons in detail. The information was collected from different secondary sources, and then compiled systematically.

Elucidating sequence-function relationships in a template-independent polymerase to enable novel DNA recording applications.

Harnessing DNA as a high-density storage medium for information storage and molecular recording of signals has been of increasing interest in the biotechnology field. Recently, progress in enzymatic DNA synthesis, DNA digital data storage, and DNA-based molecular recording has been made by leveraging the activity of the template-independent DNA polymerase, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT). TdT adds deoxyribonucleotides to the 3' end of single-stranded DNA, generating random sequences of single-stranded DNA. TdT can use several divalent cations for its enzymatic activity and exhibits shifts in deoxyribonucleotide incorporation frequencies in response to changes in its reaction environment. However, there is limited understanding of sequence-structure-function relationships regarding these properties, which in turn limits our ability to modulate TdT to further advance TdT-based tools. Most TdT literature to-date explores the activity of murine, bovine or human TdTs; studies probing TdT sequence and structure largely focus on strictly conserved residues that are functionally critical to TdT activity. Here, we explore non-conserved TdT sequence space by surveying the natural diversity of TdT. We characterize a diverse set of TdT homologs from different organisms and identify several TdT residues/regions that confer differences in TdT behavior between homologs. The observations in this study can design rules for targeted TdT libraries, in tandem with a screening assay, to modulate TdT properties. Moreover, the data can be useful in guiding further studies of potential residues of interest. Overall, we characterize TdTs that have not been previously studied in the literature, and we provide new insights into TdT sequence-function relationships.

The seaweed Chaetomorpha linum cultivated in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture system: A new tool for microplastic bioremediation?

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants with detrimental impacts on ecosystems and human health. Due to their adverse effects, new strategies to mitigate MP pollution in the marine environment need to be developed urgently. In this context, the capability of the seaweed Chaetomorpha linum (Chlorophyta, Cladophorales) to trap MPs, as well as the effectiveness of a simple washing procedure to clean up the harvested seaweed biomass, were investigated. This algal species was grown in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture system (IMTA), where bioremediator organisms such as macroalgae, polychaetes, sponges and mussels were farmed in the vicinity of the fish cages. MPs trapped in C. linum were classified based on shape and size, and representative samples of each shape were analysed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy to evaluate their chemical composition. Fibre MPs were the most abundant (97.3 %), while the size ranged from 0.025 to 2.00 mm, with most samples being in the size range 0.80–1.00 mm. MPs were composed mainly of polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene. They were efficiently removed from the cultured seaweeds by a simple density separation procedure, consisting of three extractions with hypersaline solutions of sodium chloride. These results suggest that C. linum cultivated in an IMTA system can be proposed as a bioremediator to capture MPs from the surrounding environment. At the same time, harvested and cleaned green seaweeds may be considered a co-product of the bioremediation process and can find application in several biotechnological fields, including the use as a food source for human consumption.

Production and characterization of bacteriocin from lactic acid bacteria isolated from fermented food products

Bacteriocin is a natal antimicrobial which can be exploited to evade the inevitability of adding chemical preservatives to food products. This study is aimed at the production and characterization of bacteriocin from Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from fermented food products. Sixteen (16) samples of various fermented food products (abacha, fufu, ogi and yoghurt) were screened for the presence of bacteriocin producing LAB using agar well diffusion method. The strain designated C6 was selected for further studies due to its broad inhibitory effect on the growth of all tested organisms (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 33090, Pseudomonas aeruginosa MN 515053, Listeria innocua ATCC 2127, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida spp and Aspergillus terrus MN907795). Molecular characterization spotted C6 isolated from yoghurt as Lactobacillus fermentum (accession no. MN907811). Purification of the antimicrobial substance was achieved using High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with nisin as Standard which revealed it to be bacteriocin a proteinaceous antimicrobial that is stable to heat and organic solvents. Effect of substrate level on the growth of Lactobacillus fermentum and optimization of physicochemical parameters on bacteriocin production revealed optimum condition of 1.0 % glucose, 0.5 % sodium nitrate, pH of 6.0, incubation temperature of 35°C for 72h. This makes Lactobacillus fermentum and its bacteriocin a good antagonistic agent for exploitation in pharmaceutical and food processing industries as well as in the field of biotechnology.

Production of Cellulolytic Enzymes by Paecilomyces TP08 Using Grape Stalk and Wheat Bran as Substrates in Solid State Culture

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the use of grape stems and wheat bran as substrates in solid state fermentation, for the production of cellulolytic enzymes using the fungus Paecilomyces TP08 sp. Theoretical Framework: In grape production, driven by increased consumption and exports, by-products represent 30% of the total volume of grapes processed for wine, requiring efficient management to ensure sustainability. Method: The methodology adopted for this research involves solid-state cultivation, with a substrate made up of 50% grape stems and 50% wheat bran, with samples taken every 24 hours. Each sample taken went through a filtration process, followed by enzyme activity analysis using the DNS method. Results and Discussion: The results obtained showed that the cultivation with the association of wheat bran and grape stalks presented good total cellulase activity during the process, value of 0.846 U/g in 144h, followed by the activity of 0.663U/g observed in 24h. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of industrial biotechnology. These implications could cover the food, textile and pharmaceutical industries. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by associating grape stalks with wheat bran for the production of fungal enzymes. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the use of an innovative substrate (grape stalks) associated with a conventional substrate (wheat bran) for induction of the microorganism little used in the literature for enzyme production.

Application and research progress of MultiBac: A review.

Although the traditional Escherichia coli expression system has matured and is cost-effective, the posttranslation modifications of proteins expressed in eukaryotic cells differ significantly from those expressed in E coli. Insect cells have gradually entered the realm of researchers; however, the proteins synthesized by insect cells are somewhat different from those of mammals in terms of modification. Herein, we have introduced a relatively new method. MultiBac, We introduce the development process, characteristics, and applications of MultiBac technology. And provide new methods for basic researchers. MultiBac has evolved into an indispensable tool in the fields of biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, facilitating the efficient production of recombinant proteins and the study of complex protein complexes. Furthermore, its development has benefited from the integration of synthetic biology techniques, providing additional versatility. But it also has some disadvantages. MultiBac technology is poised to become a key tool in unlocking the mysteries of the protein world, propelling the life sciences ever forward. But researchers should consider its limitations when selecting the most appropriate expression system for their specific needs.

Creation and functioning of the information-rich space of biological and ecological education of the Technopark "Quantorium" in the conditions of integration of interaction between schools and pedagogical University

The publication reflects the solution of the task of creating a Technopark space functioning on the basis of the latest information, communication and IT technologies for the implementation of modern biological and environmental education in the school-university system using the resources of the Quantorium Technopark. The authors of the study discuss the importance of integrating modern technologies and resources into the educational process in order to increase the effectiveness of learning and the practical applicability of knowledge in this field. The purpose of the article is to describe the concept of an information–rich technological space of biological and environmental education and the principles of its implementation on the basis of the Technopark “Quantorium”. The research methodology is based on the principles of developing training courses and educational and methodological support for them, involving the preparation of educational programs designed to implement innovative methods and the latest technologies in the field of biology, bioengineering, biotechnology and ecology; the use of laboratory and practical work, as well as large-scale application of biological and environmental experiments based on the use of technical resources of the Technopark. The results of the study. The paper analyzes in detail the main components of the technological information-rich space, including information systems, equipment and software used to develop training courses and laboratory work on environmental and biological topics. The role of the Technopark “Quantorium” as a center for innovation and support of educational projects, contributing to the introduction of modern educational technologies, is also considered. In their article, the researchers present the concept of an innovative information-rich space for the practical implementation of biological and environmental education. It is based on the multidisciplinary integrated application of all the resources of the Technopark “Quantorium”. The implementation of this concept will create an effective and innovative information and educational environment for school students and pedagogical university students, contributing to the development of environmental awareness and the training of qualified specialists in the field of ecology and biology.

A review of organometallic compounds as versatile sensors in environmental, medical, and industrial applications

Abstract Sensing technology is gaining attention and continuously advancing, making it a recommended element of individualized healthcare management. This is due to the powers exhibited by organometallic compounds, which are further enhanced by the field of bioengineering. Organometallic compounds have a wide range of biological activity and find uses in industrial and material science fields. Their unique ability to specifically target and overcome constraints faced by traditional counterparts makes them potential contenders for sensor technology. These compounds are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, allowing them to be utilized as sensors for detecting various chemicals or conditions. Additionally, the versatility of organometallic compounds enables their integration into different sensor platforms, making them suitable for environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and industrial quality control. This article provides a comprehensive summary of recent advancements in the design and synthesis of organometallic compounds, with a specific emphasis on their potential use as sensors. It also discusses the changes made to the structure, the processes used for functionalization, the incorporation of microfluidics, and the resulting impact on the materials’ sensing capabilities. These biologically derived methods align with sustainability goals and enhance the affordability, applicability, and effectiveness of sensing.

Potential Valorization of Banana Production Waste in Developing Countries: Bio-Engineering Aspects

Plant food production generates a lot of by-products (BPs). These BPs are majorly discarded into the environment, polluting it, or into landfills where they just decompose, providing no benefit and taking up storage space, causing financial costs. These plant BPs are biodegradable, but reusing them may provide a better outcome and profit. The vast majority of plant-based food BPs are polysaccharide polymers like gums, lignin, cellulose, and their derivatives. It is possible to utilize plant food production waste, like banana peels, leaves, pseudostems, and inflorescences, to produce bioethanol, single-cell protein, cellulase, citric acid, lactic acid, amylase, cosmetics, fodder additives, fertilizers, biodegradable fibers, sanitary pads, bio-films, pulp and paper, natural fiber-based composites, bio-sorbents, bio-plastic, and bio-electricity in the agro-industry, pharmaceutical, bio-medical, and bio-engineering fields. Moreover, the use of banana BPs seems to be a way of dealing with many issues in underdeveloped countries, providing a clean and ecological solution. The suggested idea might not only reduce the use of plastic but also mitigate waste pollution.

Thermoresponsive supramolecular nanocontainers from ionic complexes of amphiphilic wedge-shaped mesogens and polybases

Multi-responsive polymeric nanocontainers attract significant attention for their potential applications in biotechnology, drug delivery, catalysis, and other fields. By incorporating a liquid-crystalline (LC) mesogenic ligand with an alkyl tail length ranging from 8–12 carbons, ionically linked to the polymer backbone, we generate vesicles with walls significantly thinner than those of conventional polymersomes, approaching the thickness of a lipid bilayer. These LC vesicles, ranging in size from 50–120 nm, are designed to be mechanically robust due to the alignment of the hydrophilic polymer backbone within the plane of the vesicle wall. Additionally, incorporating a temperature-sensitive block into the polymer structure imparts thermoresponsiveness to the nanocontainers, enhancing their functionality and adaptability for various applications. Ionic complexes of hydrophilic polybases, specifically poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) and PDMAEMA-b-PNIPAM (poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)) block copolymers, with amphiphilic wedge-shaped mesogens bearing a sulfonic acid group at the focal point were synthesized. The designed nanocontainers, in the form of either vesicles or nanotubes, exhibit a well-defined wall thickness of 5 nm, dictated by the organization of a smectic LC phase. The constructed coarse-grained models elucidate the mechanism of self-assembly, demonstrating that the balance between the hydrophilicity of the main polymer chain and the hydrophobicity of the wedge-shaped pendant groups determines both the internal and external structure of the vesicles.

Biodiversity and biotechnological potential of cultivable Halophilic bacteria from Slana voda (Oravska Polhora, Slovakia) natural salt spring

AbstractHalophilic microorganisms are of immense importance in various fields of biotechnology. There is a multitude of actual or potential applications in the research of environmentally friendly applications in biodegradation, decolorization, food biotechnology, and biopolymers production. Thirty-eight strains of halophilic bacteria were isolated from the Slana voda (Slovakia, Central Europe) natural salt spring, with a tolerance of up to 20% of NaCl. The Halomonas genus accounted for more than 35% of the cultivable microbiota, followed by Shewanella and Pseudoaltermonas genera. More than 55% of bacterial isolates were able to produce at least one of the tested hydrolases (cellulase, lipase, amylase, protease) and three of them were positive for all four enzyme activities. Bacterial isolates showed a relatively high ability to degrade synthetic dyes, namely congo red, crystal violet, malachite green, methylene blue, methyl red, and safranin (5.26, 42.11, 44.74, 63.16, 92.18, and 18.42% of isolates respectively). Interestingly only a small overlap was observed between the isolates producing extremozymes and the isolates demonstrating decolorizing activity.

Bioactive Milk Peptides as a Nutraceutical Opportunity and Challenges.

The biotechnology field has witnessed rapid advancements, leading to the development of numerous proteins and peptides (PPs) for disease management. The production and isolation of bioactive milk peptides (BAPs) involve enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation, followed by purification through various techniques such as ultrafiltration and chromatography. The nutraceutical potential of bioactive milk peptides has gained significant attention in nutritional research, as these peptides may regulate blood sugar levels, mitigate oxidative stress, improve cardiovascular health, gut health, bone health, and immune responses, and exhibit anticancer properties. However, to enhance BAP bioavailability, the encapsulation method can be used to offer protection against protease degradation and controlled release. This article provides insights into the composition, types, production, isolation, bioavailability, and health benefits of BAPs.

Cellular and Molecular Effects of Magnetic Fields.

Recently, magnetic fields (MFs) have received major attention due to their potential therapeutic applications and biological effects. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the cellular and molecular impacts of MFs, with a focus on both in vitro and in vivo studies. We investigate the mechanisms by which MFs influence cell behavior, including modifications in gene expression, protein synthesis, and cellular signaling pathways. The interaction of MFs with cellular components such as ion channels, membranes, and the cytoskeleton is analyzed, along with their effects on cellular processes like proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Molecular insights are offered into how MFs modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which are pivotal in various pathological conditions. Furthermore, we explore the therapeutic potential of MFs in regenerative medicine, cancer treatment, and neurodegenerative diseases. By synthesizing current findings, this article aims to elucidate the complex bioeffects of MFs, thereby facilitating their optimized application in medical and biotechnological fields.