Plant Sources Research Articles

Knockdown of β-conglycinin α' and α subunits alters seed protein composition and improves salt tolerance in soybean.

Soybean is an important plant source of protein worldwide. Increasing demands for soybean can be met by improving the quality of its seed protein. In this study, GmCG-1, which encodes the β-conglycinin α' subunit, was identified via combined genome-wide association study and transcriptome analysis. We subsequently knocked down GmCG-1 and its paralogues GmCG-2 and GmCG-3 with CRISPR-Cas9 technology and generated two stable multigene knockdown mutants. As a result, the β-conglycinin content decreased, whereas the 11S/7S ratio, total protein content and sulfur-containing amino acid content significantly increased. Surprisingly, the globulin mutant exhibited salt tolerance in both the germination and seedling stages. Little is known about the relationship between seed protein composition and the salt stress response in soybean. Metabonomics and RNA-seq analysis indicated that compared with the WT, the mutant was formed through a pathway that was more similar to that of active salicylic acid biosynthesis; however, the synthesis of cytokinin exhibited greater defects, which could lead to increased expression of plant dehydrin-related salt tolerance proteins and cell membrane ion transporters. Population evolution analysis suggested that GmCG-1, GmCG-2, and GmCG-3 were selected during soybean domestication. The soybean accessions harboring GmCG-1Hap1 presented relatively high 11S/7S ratios and relatively high salt tolerance. In conclusion, knockdown of the β-conglycinin α and α' subunits can improve the nutritional quality of soybean seeds and increase the salt tolerance of soybean plants, providing a strategy for designing soybean varieties with high nutritional value and high salt tolerance.

Evolution Characteristics and Typical Pollution Episodes of PM2.5 and O3 Complex Pollution in Bozhou City from 2017 to 2022

In China, atmospheric pollution exhibits a complex pattern, with simultaneous exceedances of fine particulate matter （PM2.5） and ozone （O3） levels becoming evident. To understand the complex pollution characteristics and evolution patterns of PM2.5 and O3 in Bozhou City, various methods such as weather classification, analysis of typical pollution processes, and investigation of precursor sources were employed to explore the pollution and variations of PM2.5 and O3 in Bozhou City from 2017 to 2022 and subsequently analyze their causes and precursor sources. The results indicated that： ① PM2.5-O3 complex pollution in Bozhou City mostly occurred under high-pressure weather conditions, with daytime high temperatures and low humidity promoting the formation of O3 pollution, whereas nighttime high humidity and atmospheric oxidative conditions promoted the generation of secondary components such as nitrates and ammonium salts in PM2.5. ② During the pollution process, PM2.5 in Bozhou City mainly originated from biomass burning, secondary generation, traffic pollution, coal combustion, and dust sources. Volatile organic compounds （VOCs） primarily emerged from plant sources, traffic pollution, oil and gas evaporation, solvent use, fossil fuel combustion, residential emissions, and industrial emissions. Biomass burning and traffic pollution made significant contributions to the pollution process. ③ Analysis of air mass trajectories and regional pollution situations indicated that the overlay of northern and southern air masses, along with local generation, were the main causes of the PM2.5-O3 complex pollution in Bozhou from October 18th to 27th, 2022.

Glucose enhanced lignin accumulation in grapevine stems via promoting phenylpropanoid biosynthesis

BackgroundThe lignification of branches can promote the accumulation of nutrients, increase plant survival and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. As an important carbon source for plants, glucose is also the carbon skeleton for lignin synthesis. Grapevine is a perennial cash crop, and highly lignified branches are essential to ensure the growth of the grapevine plant and the development of the fruit.MethodsHere, ‘Red Globe’ grape (Vitis vinifera L.) plantlets were selected as the material and cultured with different concentrations of glucose: 0 g/L, 20 g/L, 40 g/L and 60 g/L glucose (G0, G20, G40 and G60). Among them, G0 group as control. Lignin, anthocyanins and glucose contents, plant height and microstructure were measured at each glucose concentration after 40-, 50-, and 60-day treatments. Transcriptome and metabolome were used to analyze the difference in genes and metabolites after 50 days of growth.ResultsAfter 50 days of cultivation, the lignin content in G40 group was the highest. And the xylem cells number also increased. To further, transcriptome and metabolome have identified a total of 3638 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (including 245 TFs) and 510 differently accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in three comparison groups. In-depth joint analysis revealed that phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway significantly respond to exogenous glucose, and 37 DEGs were identified. Therefore, the phenylpropane biosynthesis pathway may be the key to exogenous glucose to increase lignin levels in grapes, with differential expression of genes being a top priority. These findings provide a new perspective for understanding the relationship between glucose and lignin in grape.Graphical

In vitro evaluation of Morinda lucida root extracts against multi-drug resistant bacterial pathogens isolated from diabetic foot ulcers

Background: The continuous rise in microbial resistance to orthodox antimicrobial drugs has led to the search for alternative sources with proven efficacy to solve the challenges of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The preferred alternatives are plant sources, and this has led to the evaluation of constituents and potency of medicinal plants to provide scientific justification for their use. Methodology: The root of Morinda lucida plant was dug up from the ground, washed clean, and cut into smaller pieces and dried. The root was then ground into fine powder and extracted with water (aqueous), methanol, ethyl acetate and n-hexane. Multi-drug resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from wound swab samples collected from patients with diabetic foot ulcers using conventional cultures, biochemical identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests. The phytochemical and proximate contents of the extracts were assessed by standard technique. The in vitro antimicrobial activities of the extracts were determined at a concentration of 200mg/ml of the extract using the agar well diffusion technique. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations were determined by serial doubling dilution. The methanol extract time-kill assay was performed to determine the time of kill of the bactericidal concentration. Results: The phytochemical analysis showed that M. lucida root contains essential secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannin, saponin, glucosides, anthraquinone and quinine. The methanol and aqueous extracts showed higher in vitro antibacterial activity, producing the highest zone of inhibition of 27mm against S. aureus but a lower activity of 18mm with n-hexane extract against all isolates except S. aureus. The MIC ranges from 3.125mg/ ml and 25mg/ml. The time-kill assay of methanol extract at 2x and 3x MIC showed that bactericidal activity occurred within 0-8 hours of incubation, indicating high activity. Conclusion: The antibacterial potency of M. lucida root extract and the phytochemical components from this study shows that it can serve as a source of alternative antimicrobial agent that may be effective in the treatment MDR bacterial infections.

The discovery of a fossil whitefly from Lower Lusatia (Germany) presents a challenge to current ideas about Baltic amber

The whiteflies (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) are small sternorrhynchan insects, which have the potential to cause significant economic damage to agricultural crops. There is a paucity of knowledge regarding the diversity, disparity, and evolutionary history of these insects, with classification based on the immatures, called puparia. The fossil record of whiteflies is sparse and incomplete, with the majority of fossils representing imaginal forms preserved as inclusions in fossilized resins. In this study, we present the first inclusion in succinite associated with the layers of Lower/Middle Miocene 2nd Lusatian Lignite Seam of Wanninchen in Brandenburg, Germany. The objective of the present study is to elaborate this fossil, and as a consequence, a new fossil genus and species, Pudrica christianottoi gen. et sp. nov., is described. This fossil is a representative of the subfamily Aleyrodinae, and it is the third fossil genus of this whitefly subfamily to be described. The discovery of the fossil inclusion in the succinite from the lignite deposits of Lower Lusatia challenges the current understanding of the character and conditions of formation and deposition of central and east European Paleogene fossil resins. Succinite is a fossil resin that occurs in the Eocene deposits of the Gulf of Gdańsk, belonging to the Prussian Formation, containing a glauconite-rich horizon known as the ‘Blue Earth’. Similarly, glauconite-rich deposits are present in the Lublin area of Poland, where they are associated with the occurrence of succinite. Additionally, succinite has been found in deposits in the Rovno-Zhitomir area of Ukraine, which are alluvial deposits containing glauconite and lignite layers. Succinite was also identified in Eocene strata of Spitsbergen and in Axel Heiberg Island in the Canadian Arctic. Succinite has also been discovered in early Miocene deposits in Bitterfeld, Germany, where it occurs alongside lignite deposits (the deposit actually encompasses different fossil resins, so potentially originating from different source plants). Furthermore, it has been identified in younger (Pleistocene) deposits across Europe. The autochthonous (parautochthonous) character of the lignite deposits in Lower Lusatia raises questions regarding the time range of the succinite-producing gymnosperm trees and the autochthonous or allochthonous character of the lignite layers associated fossilized resins.

The effect of the angular error on the determination of the sound power levels of industrial coolers

Drycoolers are relevant noise sources in many industrial plants due to their typically exposed positioning. For this reason, drycoolers are often subject to strict acoustic requirements in the form of maximum permissible sound power levels. Thus, the suppliers have to provide proof of compliance with these requirements before delivery. The acoustic verification measurement is usually carried out by measuring the sound pressure level using the enveloping surface method in accordance with EN 13487. According to EN 13487, the measurement is carried out at discrete points on a cuboid measuring surface. Since drycoolers are sound sources that extend over a large area, an angular error occurs when measuring sound pressure levels on a cuboid measuring surface, which leads to a superelevation of the measured sound pressure level, since the acoustic particle velocity on the cuboid measuring surface is not perpendicular to the measuring surface at almost any point. Therefore, the sound power level determined is methodically too high. By measuring the sound intensity levels in accordance with ISO 9614-2 instead of the sound pressure levels, the influence of this angular error can be excluded and brought into good agreement with theoretical considerations and calculations of the angular error.

Assessing and mitigating environmental noise pollution: a case study of a metallurgy company

This study aims to analyze the environmental acoustic and vibrational scenario surrounding a metallurgy company, focusing on an industrial unit. Initially, assessments were conducted, including sound pressure measurements according to the ABNT NBR 10.151:2019 standard and internal procedures, comparing the results with regional legal limits. The second analysis focused on particle vibration velocity peaks collected in June 2022, comparing them with the standards established by DD No. 215/2007/E of CETESB. Upon identifying nocturnal noise levels above the limit at two monitored points, an additional step was taken. The internal noise of the main plant sources was characterized, creating noise and conflict maps with legislation. These maps assess noise in the inhabited areas surrounding the industry, identifying critical sources for exceeding limits. Conceptual acoustic solutions were proposed, including the necessary attenuation to ensure that external noise from the factory complies with normative limits in the inhabited areas nearby.

Solar Power Plant Optimization using Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD)

The automatic system model uses a Solar Charge Controller (SCC) to turn off the solar panel system at the minimum battery point so that the battery is safe and durable and an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) to automatically transfer the electricity network from State Electricity Company or Grid or solar panels. In this study, Solar Panel Priority Grid electricity is used if the solar panel is insufficient and hybrid system with solar panel priority with 2 cut out battery usage. The results of this study are 450WP Solar Panel, 100A SCC MPPT, 12V/100Ah Battery, and 3000 Watt Modified Sine Wave Inverter, Miniature Circuit Breaker, Contactor, Relay Switch, Time Delay Relay and Indicators. The results of the switching process test between the Solar Power Plant source and grid with ATS control can run automatically in Grid Priority Mode, meaning Solar Power Plant as a backup, or Solar Power Plant Priority Mode where the grid source is used as a power backup system. In the Battery Capacity Optimization System, Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) Protection can work well, namely it can cut off the voltage from the inverter if the battery is in a low voltage state at a rating below 10.8 Volts, Auto Cut Charging Protection testing can charge the battery up to 13.8 Volts and Cycle Use, namely the process of this system can work to store energy while releasing energy to run the load. The results of this study can be used as a reference for the best choice of the most efficient Solar Power Plant system.

Network pharmacology-based strategy to reveal the mechanism of pinocembrin against ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer stands as the foremost cause of mortality among gynaecological diseases globally, characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Pinocembrin, a flavonoid from natural plant sources, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties. Despite its known pharmacological activities, its specific role in ovarian cancer treatment remains scarcely reported, and its precise molecular mechanism remains elusive. This study integrates network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques to explore pinocembrin's potential mechanism in ovarian cancer treatment. The targets of pinocembrin were compiled from the several online databases. Ovarian cancer targets were identified using the GeneCards database, with common target genes determined by data aggregation. Protein-protein interactions were analysed using the STRING platform. Subsequent Gene Ontology functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed. Molecular docking assessed the binding affinity between potential targets and active compounds. Finally, target validity was verified through in vitro experiments. We identified 163 potential pinocembrin targets for ovarian cancer treatment. GO and KEGG analyses revealed pinocembrin's involvement in protein kinase activity, protein phosphorylation, protein kinase complexes and cancer pathways in ovarian cancer treatment. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinity between pinocembrin and most potential target active sites. In vitro experiments suggested pinocembrin's potential to induce apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells through the AKT1-mTOR signalling pathway. This study comprehensively elucidates pinocembrin's potential targets and mechanisms against ovarian cancer, aiming to provide promising candidates for developing novel and effective alternative and/or complementary nutritional supplements for the clinical treatment of ovarian cancer.

Rethinking Nanoparticle Synthesis: A Sustainable Approach vs. Traditional Methods.

This review portrays a comparison between green protocols and conventional nanoparticle (NP) synthesis strategies, highlighting each method's advantages and limitations. Various top-down and bottom-up methods in NP synthesis are described in detail. The green chemistry principles are emphasized for designing safe processes for nanomaterial synthesis. Among the green biogenic sources plant extracts, vitamins, enzymes, polysaccharides, fungi (Molds and mushrooms), bacteria, yeast, algae, and lichens are discussed. Limitations in the reproducibility of green protocols in terms of availability of raw material, variation in synthetic protocol, and selection of material due to geographical differences are elaborated. Finally, a conclusion is drawn utilizing green chemical principles, & a circular economy strategy to minimize waste generation, offering a promising framework for the synthesis of NPs emphasizing sustainability.

Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Dillenia Indica and Mikania Micrantha Leaf Extracts: Applications in Photocatalysis and Antibacterial Activity.

Researchers are keenly interested in developing metal-based nanoparticles using plant sources as they are eco-friendly, less expensive and simpler. Zinc oxide nanoparticles, symbolized as D-ZnONPs and M-ZnONPs were synthesized in this study utilizing the leaves of D. indica and M. micrantha, respectively, and studied their impact on the growth inhibition of various bacterial strains and on the photocatalysis. By displaying the distinctive surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 373 nm in UV-Vis and bands at 450-480 cm-1 corresponding to Zn-O stretching FTIR spectroscopy imparted the formation of ZnONPs which was further supported by X-ray diffraction analysis by showing the polycrystalline nature and a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The spherical form and average particle size of 30 nm of the produced ZnONPs, as confirmed by electron microscopy, are also confirmed to be crystalline. Under natural sunlight, both ZnONPs demonstrate excellent degradation efficacy about 96-99 % within 100 min towards methylene blue (MB). Furthermore, it is noteworthy that both the synthesized ZnONPs exhibited 55-60 % efficacy with respect to antibiotics in inhibiting the growth of various pathogenic bacterial strains. Overall, ZnONPs can be produced on a large-scale using plant sources and employed them in environmental remediation and cosmetic industries as prominent components.

Heterocyclic phytometabolites formononetin and arbutin prevent in vitro oxidative and alkylation-induced mutagenicity

Phenolic phytometabolites are promising bioactive compounds for management of genomic instability related diseases. Formononetin (FMN) and arbutin (ARB) are found in several plant sources. Our goal was to investigate the safety and efficacy of FMN and ARB using in vitro both standardized and alternative toxicogenetic methods. FMN and ARB were evaluated through the OECD’S guidelines No. 471 (Bacterial Reverse Mutation Test –Salmonella/microsome) and No. 487 (In vitro Mammalian Micronucleus Test – CBMN assay), accordingly to the mentioned recommendations. Also, antimutagenicity of FMN and ARB was assessed in S. Typhimurium strains TA98, TA100 and TA1535, following pre-, co- and post- treatment protocols. Liver human lineages HepG2 and F C3H were assayed for cytotoxicity after exposure to FMN and ARB (24, 48 and 72 h) using in vitro WST-1 test. ARB showed no mutagenicity in the Salmonella/microsome test under both metabolic conditions (in presence or absence of 4 % S9 mix), but FMN was cytotoxic to the TA97 and TA100 strains after metabolic activation. Under this same condition, FMN induced an increase in the mutagenic index of strain TA1535 at two of the highest tested concentrations. Even so, ARB and FMN exhibited protection against the induced alkylation of DNA in multiple action modes. In the antimutagenicity assay, FMN reached the maximum of 80 % of oxidative-provoked mutagenicity reduction in TA98 strain in co-treatment with known mutagen, besides 69 % of reduction in TA100 in the same exposure condition. ARB showed up to reduce induced mutagenicity in strains TA100 and TA1535, reaching percentages from 55 % to 100 % of antimutagenicity in all of the tested exposure models against alkylating agent. In the CBMN assay, no increase in micronuclei formation was observed. The results suggest that FMN and ARB prevent DNA from mutation using multi-targeted antimutagenic roles. Finally, our data suggests that FMN and ARB are not genotoxic and presented encouraging antimutagenicity action in vitro, being promising compounds for use in genomic instability-related diseases therapeutics.

Plant Protein Resources, Novel Extraction and Precipitation Methods: A Review

ABSTRACTThis comprehensive review explores the diverse landscape of plant protein resources, focusing on novel extraction and precipitation methods that contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient protein production. The increasing global demand for plant‐based proteins as a key component of balanced diets has spurred research into optimizing extraction processes from various plant sources. The review encompasses a wide range of plant protein resources, including legumes, cereals, oilseeds, and other plant‐based alternatives. Special emphasis is given to innovative techniques in protein extraction, such as enzyme‐assisted extraction, aqueous extraction, and emerging technologies like ultrasound and microwave‐assisted methods. Additionally, the review investigates novel precipitation methods employed to isolate and purify plant proteins, shedding light on techniques like isoelectric precipitation, salting‐out, and membrane filtration. The integration of sustainable practices in protein extraction, coupled with a focus on minimizing environmental impact, is a central theme throughout the review. By synthesizing current research findings, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the state‐of‐the‐art in plant protein extraction and precipitation methods, offering valuable insights for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers involved in the rapidly evolving field of plant‐based protein production.

PH shift extraction technique for plant proteins: A promising technique for sustainable development

With the recognition of animal-derived foods as unhealthy and their association with climate change, researchers are increasingly focusing on plant-based protein as a sustainable alternative. Plant proteins offer versatile functional and dietary benefits, making them suitable for various food applications. This study investigates the influence of alkaline and acidic pH conditions on the extraction yield and the functional and nutritional properties of plant-based proteins. The primary sources of plant protein include cereals, legumes, and oilseeds, which can be used to address essential amino acid deficiencies through blending. Several methods have been employed for protein extraction from plant sources, such as salt extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and micellar precipitation. Among these techniques, the pH shift method stands out due to its non-thermal nature, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. In this method, proteins are solubilized at alkaline pH and then precipitated at their isoelectric point, resulting in a collection of protein precipitate. It is crucial to optimize extraction techniques based on qualitative and quantitative analysis to enhance protein yield, characteristics, and nutritional value. Most conventional protein extraction methods require a large quantity of chemicals, which imposes the issue of safe disposal, compromising environmental sustainability. Traditional methods also produce protein with non-proteinaceous constituents, adding another purification step and resulting in increased overall cost. However, the pH shift method utilizes comparatively less harsh chemicals and has a high protein extraction yield, which makes it comparatively more environmentally and economically sustainable. The sustainable extraction of plant-based proteins addresses the health and environmental concerns associated with animal-derived foods and offers a promising solution to promote sustainability in the food industry.

Evaluation of the Thermal and Light Stability of β-Carotene Extracted from Mauritia flexuosa Using Ionic Liquid

The growing concern over the adverse effects of synthetic dyes has generated interest in the use of natural pigments by the food industry. β-carotene, a carotenoid found in various plant sources, is recognized for its antioxidant properties and provitamin A activity. The fruit of the buriti palm (Mauritia flexuosa), which is particularly rich in β-carotene, serves as a significant natural source of this pigment. This study aimed to extract β-carotene from buriti fruit using ionic liquids as an alternative to conventional organic solvents like acetone. β-carotene content was determined by HPLC and showed that extraction with [C4mim] [BF4] not only improved β-carotene extraction efficiency compared to acetone (19.21 and 13.13 mg/100 g, respectively) but also provided greater pigment stability during light, thermal and color stability tests. Moreover, ionic liquids are aligned with the principles of green chemistry and offer a sustainable and safe alternative for the food industry. Its favorable characteristics not only reduce environmental impacts associated with conventional solvents, but also ensure an increase in the shelf life of natural dyes, thus promoting the safety and quality of food products.

Carbonisation of lignin in the presence of a eutectic salt mixture: Identifying the lignin properties that govern the characteristics of the resulting carbon material

Numerous studies have explored the behaviour of various lignin types during carbonisation. Yet, misconceptions persist regarding the effects arising from both the source plant and production method of lignin. Lignin is often referenced merely by type, lacking detailed characterisation. Our research examines the properties of three lignin types, elucidates their behaviour during pyrolysis, and establishes the structure-property correlation and interaction of lignin with deep eutectic solvents. By combining several analytical techniques — including NMR, FTIR, XPS, TGA-MS for functional group detection, and HPLC, EA, and ICP for compositional analysis, alongside particle size distribution and SEC for morphology — we can conduct a thorough analysis that facilitates a meaningful comparison across lignin types. This approach allows for better control over the desired carbon properties. Furthermore, we demonstrate how modification with deep eutectic solvents enables the production of biochar from different lignin types, exhibiting properties conducive to large-scale, one-step sustainable production of biochar.

A novel hybrid spherical fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach to select the best hydroelectric power plant source in India

Hydroelectric power plants (HPPs) play a crucial role in India’s energy portfolio by providing renewable energy and decreasing dependency on fossil fuels. HPPs assist in flood control, irrigation, and water management, thereby supporting agricultural and economic advancement. However, persistent challenges such as environmental consequences, habitat depletion, and resettlement complications impede project advancement. Striking a balance between these advantages and addressing social and environmental issues is essential for shaping India’s energy trajectory. In this manuscript to achieve these goals, the research paper incorporates the opinions of three decision-makers along with 20 criteria. Each criterion is associated with 5 alternatives and further categorized as beneficial and non-beneficial. To determine the optimal power plant, a novel hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method is employed within a spherical fuzzy environment to handle the uncertainties occurred in the HPPs. This paper also introduces a novel formula for calculating the weights of decision-makers and a novel score function for converting spherical fuzzy numbers into crisp values. Initially to examine the interrelationship between these criteria the spherical fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is utilized. The weight of the criteria is determined using the spherical fuzzy Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method, followed by determining the rank of the alternatives using the novel spherical fuzzy Multiple Criteria Ranking by Alternative Trace (MCRAT) method. Subsequently, the alternative with the highest score value is determined as the optimal choice for the hydroelectric power plant source in India. Furthermore, this research paper also discusses sensitivity analysis, comparative analysis, and the managerial implications of this study.

EXPLOITING ECO-FRIENDLY NATURAL DYES FROM PLANT SOURCES: EXTRACTION AND DIVERSE APPLICATIONS

Natural pigments extracted from plant sources offer eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants. In this study, pigment samples were obtained through aqueous extraction from beetroot (S1), red cabbage (S2), and turmeric (S3). Their physicochemical properties and potential applications were thoroughly evaluated. The research problem addressed in this study is the need to overcome the limitations of natural dyes, such a slower color fastness, reduced reproducibility, and limited color range, in order to promote their wider adoption in various industries as sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants. The pigment extracts were assessed for their suitability in textile dyeing, paper pH indicators, food coloring, ink production, and natural stamp pad formulations. Cotton and wool fabrics were dyed by adding traditional mordants, and the pigment-treated textiles exhibited distinctive color changes and varying levels of color fastness. The pigment samples demonstrated the ability to act as effective acid-base indicators, displaying characteristic color transitions in response to varying pH levels. When used as natural food colorants, the extracts imparted attractive hues to rice and cream without altering their flavor profiles. The feasibility of incorporating these plant-derived pigments in ink manufacturing and stamp pad production was also explored. Beetroot pigment exhibited superior color retention and fastness properties, while red cabbage and turmeric extracts displayed effectiveness in selected applications. The findings of this comprehensive study highlight the viability of these plant sources as natural substitutes for synthetic colorants in diverse fields. The observed performance characteristics and the eco-friendly nature of the pigments underscore their potential to serve as sustainable alternatives in various industries.

ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PROTEASE FROM WISTERIA SINENSIS AND CHLORIS BARBATA

Enzymes, as biocatalysts, have extensive industrial applications. Protease enzymes, in particular, are widely used in industries such as leather, detergents, food, pharmaceuticals, and diagnostics. Alkaline proteases, which require a neutral to alkaline pH for activity, are notably sourced from plants. Objective: This study aimed to isolate and partially purify protease enzymes from the leaves of Wisteria sinensis and Chloris barbata, and to characterize their enzymatic properties, particularly their caseinolytic activity in alkaline conditions. Methods: Proteases were isolated and partially purified from the leaves of Wisteria sinensis and Chloris barbata. Enzyme kinetics were assessed to determine the optimal caseinolytic activity of the proteases. The study focused on evaluating the enzymes' stability at specific pH levels and temperatures. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the enzymatic activities and to validate the findings. Results: The isolated proteases from both Wisteria sinensis and Chloris barbata demonstrated optimal caseinolytic activity in alkaline pH. The enzymes exhibited significant stability across specific pH levels and temperatures, confirming their alkaline nature. These findings highlight the potential industrial applications of these proteases. Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the isolation and characterization of proteases from Wisteria sinensis and Chloris barbata. The identified alkaline proteases show promise as industrial biocatalysts due to their stability and significant protease activity. Further research is warranted to purify these enzymes fully and explore their specific industrial applications, emphasizing the biotechnological potential of diverse plant sources.

Immunomodulation of Macrophages in Diabetic Wound Individuals by Structurally Diverse Bioactive Phytochemicals

Diabetes-related ulcers and slow-healing wounds pose a significant health risk to individuals due to their uncertain causes. Mortality rates for diabetes foot ulcers (DFUs) range from 10% after 16 months to 24% after five years. The use of bioactive phytochemicals can play a key role in healing wounds in a predictable time. Recent literature has demonstrated that various natural substances, including flavonoids, saponins, phenolic compounds, and polysaccharides, play key roles at different stages of the wound-healing process through diverse mechanisms. These studies have categorized the compounds according to their characteristics, bioactivities, and modes of action. In this study, we evaluated the role of natural compounds derived from plant sources that have been shown to play a crucial role in immunomodulation. Macrophages are closely involved in immunomodulation within the wound microenvironment and are key players in efferocytosis, inflammation resolution, and tissue regeneration, all of which contribute to successful wound healing. Phytochemicals and their derivatives have shown capabilities in immune regulation, including macrophage migration, nitric oxide synthase inhibition, lymphocyte and T-cell stimulation, cytokine activation, natural killer cell enhancement, and the regulation of NF-κβ, TNF-α, and apoptosis. In this review, we have studied the role of phytochemicals in immunomodulation for the resolution of diabetic wound inflammation.