CaZnO-based nanoghosts for the detection of ssDNA, pCRISPR and recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen and targeted delivery of doxorubicin

Discovery of cinnamoyl-flavonoid hybrid derivatives as inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and anti-inflammatory agents: Experimental and in silico insights into their efficacy against lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury

The chemical structures of the parental compounds of flavonoids from Boesenbergia rotunda were modified by conjugation with cinnamic acid to form cinnamoyl-flavonoid hybrid derivatives with enhanced anti-inflammatory and SARS-CoV-2 Mpro-inhibitory properties. Cinnamoyl-flavonoid hybrid derivatives 6 and 10 showed the potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Mpro with IC50 values of 52.49 and 22.62 μM. Compounds 6 and 10 showed lower cytotoxicity in the human lung cell lines MRC-5 and A549 at concentrations greater than 50 μM. The effects of compounds 6 and 10 on cell viability were studied in a 3D co-culture model of A549 and MRC-5 treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and observed through confocal microscopy. Compounds 6 and 10 downregulated p65 mRNA expression, resulting in a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including Interleukin 8 (IL-8) and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2), leading to an anti-inflammatory response through Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signalling pathways. Compound 6 showed potential anti-inflammatory activity, downregulating Bcl-2 Associated X gene (BAX), which resulted in inhibition of apoptotic cell death when compared to compound 10. In silico molecular dynamic simulation shed light on how these cinnamoyl-flavonoid hybrid derivatives interact with myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD-2), which is involved in the inflammatory response. Our findings suggest that cinnamoyl-flavonoid hybrid derivatives show potential as anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.

Exploring the intricacies of antimicrobial resistance: Understanding mechanisms, overcoming challenges, and pioneering innovative solutions

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing global threat. This review examines AMR from diverse angles, tracing the story of antibiotic resistance from its origins to today's crisis. It explores the rise of AMR, from its historical roots to the urgent need to counter this escalating menace. The review explores antibiotic classes, mechanisms, resistance profiles, and genetics. It details bacterial resistance mechanisms with illustrative examples. Multidrug-resistant bacteria spotlight AMR's resilience. Modern AMR control offers hope through precision medicine, stewardship, combination therapy, surveillance, and international cooperation. Converging traditional and innovative treatments presents an exciting frontier as novel compounds seek to enhance antibiotic efficacy. This review calls for global unity and proactive engagement to address AMR collectively, emphasizing the quest for innovative solutions and responsible antibiotic use. It underscores the interconnectedness of science, responsibility, and action in combatting AMR. Humanity faces a choice between antibiotic efficacy and obsolescence. The call is clear: unite, innovate, and prevail against AMR.

SPECIAL: Phosphorothioate dNTP assisted RPA equipped with CRISPR/Cas12a amplifier enables high-specific nucleic acid testing

Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) is one of the most widely used isothermal amplification methods and considered to be a promising tool for point-of-care testing (POCT) molecular diagnosis. However, RPA is prone to have nonspecific amplification occur, due to the poor recognition accuracy of polymerase and recombinase, which severely hindered its clinical application. It is important to improve the specificity of RPA further. Herein, we developed a novel nucleic acid testing method termed phosphorothioate dNTP (dNTPαS) assisted RPA (S-RPA) that employs dNTPαS as substrates to suppress nonspecific amplification effectively. We found that dNTPαS could improve the recognition accuracy of Bsu polymerase and recombinase, thereby enhancing their amplification specificity. Our S-RPA provided much higher specificity (approximately 40 % improvement compared to classical RPA), realizing detection target with single nucleotide mutation. Based on its outstanding performance, we further combined the S-RPA with CRISPR/Cas12a to achieve highly specific and sensitive fluorescence detection, namely S-RPA equipped with CRISPR/Cas12a amplifier (SPECIAL). Our SPECIAL was more sensitive (10-fold higher) than the classical RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a assay, offering 100 % agreement with the qPCR during clinical validation. In summary, a strategy based on dNTPαS was established to enhance the specificity of RPA, thereby improving its practicability and providing a potential POCT tool for molecular diagnosis.

Transformative biomedical devices to overcome biomatrix effects

The emergence of high-performance biomedical devices and sensing technologies highlights the technological advancements in the field. Recently during COVID-19 pandemic, biosensors played an important role in medical diagnostics and disease monitoring. In the past few decades, biosensors have made impressive advances in terms of sensing capability, methodology, and applications, and modern biosensors show higher performance and functionality compared to traditional biosensing platforms. Currently, various biomedical devices are already in the market or on the verge of commercialization, such as disposable paper-based devices, lab-on-a-chip devices, wearable sensors, and artificial intelligence-assisted systems, all contributing to the evolution of digital health. Despite the promising features of detection methods for developing practical biosensors, there are substantial barriers to the commercialization of biomedical devices. An important challenge is the matrix effect in the detection of clinical samples. Although achieving low limit of detection values under controlled laboratory conditions is feasible, maintaining performance in real clinical samples is difficult. Matrix molecules present in these samples can interact with analytes, potentially affecting sensitivity, specificity, and sensor response. Approaches to reduce nonspecific adsorption and cross-reactivity are imperative for improving sensor performance. The detection of diagnostic biomarkers in complex biological matrices often requires laborious sample preparation, which may affect accuracy and precision. In this review, we highlight the recent efforts to detect analytes in real samples, both invasively and noninvasively, and underline technological advancements that mitigate the biomatrix effects. We also discuss commercially available biosensors and technologies promising commercial success, highlighting their potential effect on healthcare and diagnostics.

Development of a highly sensitive, high-throughput and automated CRISPR-based device for the contamination-free pathogen detection

Rapid, portable, and contamination-resistant nucleic acid detection methods are necessary due to the threat posed by emerging viruses to public health and agricultural output. We establish CARE (CRISPR-associated airtight real-time electronic diagnostic device), a novel platform that combines CRISPR-Cas12a with a hermetically sealed microfluidic chip to overcome the limitations of present technologies, which struggle to balance sensitivity, multiplexing, and field applicability. By combining isothermal amplification and CRISPR detection within a hermetically sealed microfluidic chip, CARE eliminates the risk of nucleic acid aerosol contamination while enabling simultaneous high-throughput analysis of seven pathogens. The device is complemented by a user-friendly nucleic acid quantification App, enabling rapid and precise analysis. The RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a system demonstrates exceptional sensitivity, detecting as few as 1 copy μL-1 (single-plex) and 10-102 copies μL-1 (multiplexed), with real-sample performance matching gold-standard methods. CARE represents a significant advancement in CRISPR-based diagnostics, offering a robust, portable solution for on-site pathogen detection in food and agricultural applications.

Iguratimod, a promising therapeutic agent for COVID-19 that attenuates excessive inflammation in mouse models

In severe COVID-19 patients, excessive inflammation can lead to multiorgan dysfunction. Current anti-inflammatory treatments like glucocorticoids partially improve the outcomes, while immune systems are compromised. We have identified that SARS-CoV-2-infected obese mice were a good model of the cytokine storm seen in COVID-19. Here, we revealed that iguratimod (IGU), an approved agent for rheumatoid arthritis, improved survival by attenuating inflammation with minimal immune suppression. In this study, C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) or a normal-fat diet (NFD) for ten weeks before being infected with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2. IGU significantly improved survival rates and reduced lung inflammation in HFD-fed mice, with minimal impact on interferon-induced genes and viral load. Meanwhile, dexamethasone (DEX) did not improve survival, while it suppressed various immune reactions with different mechanisms to IGU. Interestingly, IGU-treated mice had fewer SARS-CoV-2 positive cells in the lung, although viral replication was comparable to the control mice. Neither IGU nor DEX inhibited the SARS-CoV-2 infection in Vero-E6 cells, unlike the antiviral agent, remdesivir. Of note, IGU was effective prophylactically and therapeutically in HFD mice, and showed beneficial effects in NFD-fed mice with a lethal dose exposure of SARS-CoV-2. We demonstrated that IGU could be a promising treatment for severe COVID-19, especially in obese patients, by fine-tuning inflammation without compromising antiviral immunity. This study supports the possibility of drug repositioning for IGU COVID-19 beyond autoimmune diseases.

Menstrual Blood and Endometrial Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells: A Frontier in Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Therapy

The acquisition of suitable stem cell sources is a significant issue in regenerative medicine. There has been considerable interest in utilizing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from endometrial and menstrual blood as a promising resource of MSCs, owing to their unique biochemical properties and prospective use in clinical therapies. This population of stem cells has distinct characteristics in terms of immunophenotype, proliferation rate, and differentiation capacity. A notable characteristic of these stem cells is their capacity to develop into mesodermal lineages, highlighting their regenerative capability. Moreover, the presence of certain surface markers facilitates the augmentation of clonogenic endometrial MSCs. Their distinctive characteristics, along with their swift multiplication ability, underscore their significant promise for therapeutic applicability in regenerative medicine and cell-based treatments. Current investigations are examining possible usage of diverse stem cell resources in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and perhaps intractable illnesses like Parkinson's disease, utilizing their immunomodulatory properties. This review aims to analyze stem cell-related research that has utilized endometrial and menstrual blood-derived MSCs (enMSCs and MenSCs) with a special focus on their clinical application. We will explore the existing evidence about the therapeutic potential for these stem cells across many medical diseases and address the obstacles and prospective trajectories in this domain. Additionally, we will study the unique properties of enMSCs and MenSCs that make them promising candidates for regenerative medicine.

Towards ultrasensitive biosensors based on virus-like particles and plasmonic surface lattice resonance

Plasmonic surface lattice resonance (SLR) is a phenomenon in which individual localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) excited in periodically-arranged plasmonic nanoparticles couple through the interaction with the propagating diffracted incident light. The SLR optical absorption peak is by at least one order of magnitude more intense than the LSPR one, making SLR superior for applications in which LSPR is commonly used. Recently, we have developed a route for the fabrication of spherical virus-like particles (VLPs) with plasmonic Au cores and protein coronas, where the LSPR in the cores amplifies vibrational Raman signals originating from protein-antibody interactions [ACS Synth. Biol. 12 (2023) 2320]. The particles are promising for biosensing, however, the intensity of the signals recorded in solution is not strong enough to detect antibodies at very low concentrations. Here, we show that by ordering the VLPs in periodic nanoarrays exhibiting SLR amplifies the signals by two orders of magnitude, revealing superior potential of VLP-SLR arrays in ultrasensitive biodetection.

Emerging patterns in nanoparticle-based therapeutic approaches for rheumatoid arthritis: A comprehensive bibliometric and visual analysis spanning two decades

The aim of this study is to analyze scientific literature to investigate the current research status, focus areas, and developmental trends in nanoparticle systems for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. To do that, Research articles published from 2003 to 2023 were retrieved from the Web of Science database, and analysis included quantitative output, distribution by country/region, collaborative publishing data, influential authors, high-yield institutions, keywords, hotspots, and development trends. Visual knowledge maps were generated using VOSviewer and Citespace. Findings reveal a steady increase in publications related to nanoparticle systems for RA therapy, indicating growing global interest. China leads with 487 papers (37.433%), followed by the United States (233, 17.909%), India (179, 13.759%), South Korea (89, 6.841%), and Egypt (50, 3.843%). Active collaboration is observed, particularly between the United States and countries such as China, Germany, Saudi Arabia, India, England, and Pakistan. The Chinese Academy of Sciences ranks first in total articles published (55), with Liu Y from China being the most prolific author. The Journal of Controlled Release emerges as a primary outlet in this field. Primary keyword clusters include "Drug delivery systems," "Gold nanoparticles," "Transdermal delivery," "Angiogenesis," "Collagen-induced arthritis," "Rheumatoid arthritis," "Oxidant stress," "Dendritic cells," and "pH sensitive." Research hotspots with great development potential include "Immunopathological Mechanisms," "Novel drugs," and "Smart delivery system." In conclusion, research on nanoparticle systems for RA therapy has significantly expanded over the past two decades, with a focus on elucidating pathogenetic mechanisms and advancing novel drug delivery strategies anticipated to be prominent in the foreseeable future.

Quencher-free CRISPR-based molecular detection using an amphiphilic DNA fluorescence probe

Rapid, sensitive, and specific nucleic acid detection methods play crucial roles in clinical diagnostics and healthcare. Here, we report a novel amphiphilic DNA fluorescence probe for CRISPR-based nucleic acid detection. Unlike conventional fluorophore-quencher probe detection system, our amphiphilic DNA fluorescence probe features a hydrophobic Cy5 fluorophore head and a hydrophilic single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) tail. By combining the amphiphilic DNA fluorescence probe with a paper-based microfluidic device, we developed a quencher-free, CRISPR-based detection system for target nucleic acid quantification. In the presence of the target nucleic acid, the activated CRISPR-Cas12a enzyme cleaves the hydrophilic ssDNA tail of the amphiphilic DNA fluorescence probe, releasing the hydrophobic Cy5 head and altering the wettability of the CRISPR reaction solution. When the CRISPR reaction product is applied to the paper-based microfluidic device, the migration of the cleaved Cy5 head along the hydrophilic microfluidic channel is limited. The higher the target nucleic acid concentration, the shorter the fluorescence diffusion distance, enabling visual quantification of the nucleic acid target. We used human papillomavirus-16 (HPV-16) DNA as a model to evaluate the analytical performance of the system. Furthermore, we validated its clinical feasibility by testing clinical swab samples, achieving results comparable to the traditional PCR method. Our quencher-free CRISPR-based detection system shows potential for simple, affordable, and sensitive clinical diagnostics of HPV-associated cancer and other infectious diseases.

Nanobiosensors in neurodegenerative disease diagnosis: A promising pathway for early detection

Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, are characterized by progressive neuronal loss, leading to cognitive and motor impairments. Early diagnosis remains a challenge due to the slow progression of symptoms and the limitations of current diagnostic methods. Nanobiosensors, leveraging the high sensitivity and specificity of nanotechnology, offer a promising, noninvasive, and cost-effective approach for detecting disease biomarkers at ultra-low concentrations. This review highlights recent advancements in nanobiosensor technology, including the integration of gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes, which have significantly enhanced biomarker detection precision. Furthermore, it examines the advantages of nanobiosensors over traditional diagnostic techniques, such as improved sensitivity, rapid detection, and minimal invasiveness. The potential of these innovative sensors to revolutionize early disease detection and improve patient outcomes is discussed, along with existing challenges in clinical translation, including stability, reproducibility, and regulatory considerations. Addressing these limitations will be crucial for integrating nanobiosensors into routine clinical practice and advancing personalized medicine for neurodegenerative disorders.

Role of tri18 gene in Epiroridin E production and toxin resistance mechanisms in Paramyrothecium roridum

Type D trichothecene toxins represent a class of macrocyclic trichothecene toxins with significant cytotoxicities towards human and crops. These toxins can also be used as anti-tumor compounds by the combination of antibody-drug conjugate. Therefore, it is urgent to investigate the biosynthetic routine of type D trichothecene toxins and explore type D trichothecene toxin-resistant genes, in order to ameliorate the hazard of trichothecene toxins and to facilitate the heterologous expression of toxin-biosynthetic cluster. In this study, tri18 gene was firstly knocked out in Paramyrothecium roridum, leading to the complete absence of type D trichothecene toxin epiroridin E, which can be restored by the complement of tri18 gene. Additionally, the knockout of tri18 gene led to a significant reduction in the pathogenicity of P. roridum towards pumpkin. Meanwhile, the enzymatic properties of Tri18 protein towards trichothecene deoxynivalenol (DON) toxin were also characterized. Moreover, tri3 and tri17KR with broad spectrum toxin-resistance function within the tri cluster were initially discovered through heterologous expression in toxin-sensitive Saccharomyces cerevisiae. And this study provides innovative type D trichothecene toxin resistant enzymes, which can provides green platform for the production of type D trichothecene toxins, thus promoting the application of these toxins in biomedical field.

Recent advances in sustainable nature-based functional materials for biomedical sensor technologies

The lightweight, low-density, and low-cost natural polymers like cellulose, chitosan, and silk have good chemical and biodegradable properties due to their individually unique structural and functional elements. However, the mechanical properties of these polymers differ from each other. In this scenario, chitosan lacks good mechanical properties than cellulose and silk. The synthesis of nano natural polymer and reinforcement with suitable chemical compounds as the development of nanocomposite gives them promising multidisciplinary applications. Many kinds of research are already published with innovative bio-derived polymeric functional materials (Bd-PFM) applications. Most research interest is carried out on health concerns. Lots of attention has been paid to biomedical applications of Bd-PFM as biosensors. This review aims to provide a glimpse of the nanostructures Bd-PFM biosensors.

COVID-19 electrochemical immunosensor with Ag-MOF: Rapid and high-selectivity nasal swab testing for effective detection

Early detection of the coronavirus is acknowledged as a crucial measure to mitigate the spread of the pandemic, facilitating timely isolation of infected individuals, and disrupting the transmission chain. In this study, we leveraged the properties of synthesized Ag-MOF, including high porosity and increased flow intensity. Electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were employed to develop an economical and portable sensor with exceptional selectivity for COVID-19 detection. The methodology involves the deposition of Ag-MOF onto the surface of a Glassy Carbon Electrode (GCE), which resulted in a progressive augmentation of electric current. Subsequently, the targeted antibodies were applied, and relevant tests were conducted. The sensor demonstrated the capacity to detect the virus within a linear range of 100 fM to 10 nM, boasting a noteworthy Limit of Detection (LOD) of 60 fM. The entire detection process could be completed in a brief duration of 20 min, exhibiting high levels of accuracy and precision, outperforming comparable techniques in terms of speed and efficacy.

Hierarchical Nanobiosensors at the End of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

Nanostructures have played a key role in the development of different techniques to attack severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Some applications include masks, vaccines, and biosensors. The latter are of great interest for detecting diseases since some of their features allowed us to find specific markers in secretion samples such as saliva, blood, and even tears. Herein, we highlight how hierarchical nanoparticles integrated into two or more low-dimensional materials present outstanding advantages that are attractive for photonic biosensing using their nanoscale functions. The potential of nanohybrids with their superlative mechanical characteristics together with their optical and optoelectronic properties is discussed. The progress in the scientific research focused on using nanoparticles for biosensing a variety of viruses has become a medical milestone in recent years, and has laid the groundwork for future disease treatments. This perspective analyzes the crucial information about the use of hierarchical nanostructures in biosensing for the prevention, treatment, and mitigation of SARS-CoV-2 effects.

SnO2-xNx based tpod nanostructure for SARS-CoV2 spike protein detection

The worldwide spreading of severe acute respiratory syndrome SARS-CoV2 pandemic, a massive setback to every human being. In response to strategies actions against Covid-19 spreading many detection, prevention, and post-measures are being studied in large capacities. Association of SARS-CoV2 with ACE2 is well acknowledged and used for developing point-of-care detection kits. Recently, cases and studies have surfaced showing relation of ACE I/D polymorphism with spreading of SARS-CoV2 and highlighted a slip section towards detection and these studies show specificity with older males, high diabetes, and hypertension. To address the raised concern, we report synthesis of unique SnO2-xNx tpod nanostructure, showing affirmative attachment to both ACE1 and ACE2 efficiently. The attachment is examined in different ratios and studied with μ-Raman spectroscopy. The tpod nanostructure has served with its signature raman signals and used as probe for detection of SARS-CoV2 spike protein (S1). The linearity response for tpod raman signal at 630.4 cm-1 shows R2 0.9705, comparatively peak 1219.13 cm-1 show R2 0.9865 and calculated limit of detection of 35 nM.

Oxygen-Rich Graphene/ZnO2-Ag nanoframeworks with pH-Switchable Catalase/Peroxidase activity as O2 Nanobubble-Self generator for bacterial inactivation

The oxygen-rich organic/inorganic (reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/ZnO₂-Ag) nanoframeworks as suppliers of O₂ nanobubbles (NBs) with dual pH-and-temperature-sensitive behavior were developed to suppress bacterial growth. It was demonstrated that not only the rate but also the final product of oxygen-rich ZnO₂ decomposition (to an intermediate product of H₂O₂) rate was dramatically controlled by pH adjustment. Furthermore, in the presence of Ag nanoparticles, ̇OH radical generation switched to O₂ NBs evolution by shifting the pH from acidic to basic/neutral conditions, demonstrating an adjustable nanozyme function-ability between catalase and peroxidase-like activity, respectively. Antibacterial properties of the in-situ generated O₂ NBs substantially enhanced against bacterial models including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the presence of rGO. In fact, deflecting the electrons from their main respiratory chain to an oxygen-rich bypath through rGO significantly stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, combating bacteria more efficiently. Moreover, NIR laser irradiation-induced temperature rise (due to the inherent photothermal properties of rGO) facilitated ZnO₂ decomposition and accelerated growth and collapse of NBs. The simultaneous microscale thermal and mechanical destructions induced stronger antibacterial behavior. These results hold great promises for designing simple organic/inorganic nanoframeworks as solid sources of NBs with tunable enzyme-like ability in response to environmental conditions suitable for forthcoming graphene-based bio-applications.

Emerging Graphitic Carbon Nitride-based Nanobiomaterials for Biological Applications

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) based nanostructures are distinctive materials with unique compositional, structural, optical, and electronic properties with exceptional band structure, moderate surface area, and exceptional thermal and chemical stability. Because of these properties, g-CN based nanomaterials have shown promising applications and higher performance in the biological avenue. This review covers the state-of-the-art synthetic strategies used for the preparation of the materials, the basic structure, and a panorama of different optimization strategies leading to improved physicochemical properties responsible for the biological application. The following sections include the recent progress in the use of g-CN based nanobiomaterials for biosensors, bioimaging, photodynamic therapy, drug delivery, chemotherapy, and the antimicrobial segment. Furthermore, we have summarized the role and evaluation of biosafety and biocompatibility of the material. Finally, the unresolved issues, plausible challenges, current status, and future perspectives for the development and design of g-CN have been summarized and are expected to promote a clinical path for the medical sector and human well-being.

Peptide nucleic acid and antifouling peptide based biosensor for the non-fouling detection of COVID-19 nucleic acid in saliva

The electrochemical biosensor with outstanding sensitivity and low cost is regarded as a viable alternative to current clinical diagnostic techniques for various disease biomarkers. However, their actual analytical use in complex biological samples is severely hampered due to the biofouling, as they are also highly sensitive to nonspecific adsorption on the sensing interfaces. Herein, we have constructed a non-fouling electrochemical biosensor based on antifouling peptides and the electroneutral peptide nucleic acid (PNA), which was used as the recognizing probe for the specific binding of the viral RNA of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Different from the negatively charged DNA probes that will normally weaken the biosensors' antifouling capabilities owing to the charge attraction of positively charged biomolecules, the neutral PNA probe will generate no side-effects on the biosensor. The biosensor demonstrated remarkable sensitivity in detecting SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA, possessing a broad linear range (1.0 fM - 1.0 nM) and a detection limit down to 0.38 fM. Furthermore, the sensing performance of the constructed electrochemical biosensor in human saliva was nearly similar to that in pure buffer, indicating satisfying antifouling capability. The combination of PNA probes with antifouling peptides offered a new strategy for the development of non-fouling sensing systems capable of assaying trace disease biomarkers in complicated biological media.

Cytotoxic, Antidiabetic, and Antioxidant Study of Biogenically Improvised Elsholtzia blanda and Chitosan-Assisted Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

In the present study, we have improvised a biogenic method to fabricate zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using chitosan and an aqueous extract of the leaves of Elsholtzia blanda. Characterization of the fabricated products was carried out with the help of ultraviolet-visible, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray analyses. The size of the improvised ZnO NP measured between 20 and 70 nm and had a spherical and hexagonal shape. The ZnO NPs proved to be highly effective in the antidiabetic test as the sample showed the highest percentage of enzyme inhibition at 74% ± 3.7, while in the antioxidant test, 78% was the maximum percentage of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate scavenging activity. The cytotoxic effect was investigated against the human osteosarcoma (MG-63) cell line, and the IC₅₀ value was 62.61 μg/mL. Photocatalytic efficiency was studied by the degradation of Congo red where 91% of dye degradation was observed. From the various analyses, it can be concluded that the as-synthesized NPs may be suitable for various biomedical applications as well as for environmental remediation.

STAT3 signaling in prostate cancer progression and therapy resistance: An oncogenic pathway with diverse functions

The categorization of cancers demonstrates that prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and it causes high death annually. Prostate cancer patients are diagnosed mainly via biomarkers such as PSA test and patients show poor prognosis. Prostate cancer cells rapidly diffuse into different parts of body and their metastasis is also a reason for death. Current therapies for prostate cancer patients include chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy as well as targeted therapy. The progression of prostate cancer cells is regulated by different factors that STAT3 signaling is among them. Growth factors and cytokines such as IL-6 can induce STAT3 signaling and it shows carcinogenic impact. Activation of STAT3 signaling occurs in prostate cancer and it promotes malignant behavior of tumor cells. Induction of STAT3 signaling increases glycolysis and proliferation of prostate cancer cells and prevents apoptosis. Furthermore, STAT3 signaling induces EMT mechanism in increasing cancer metastasis. Activation of STAT3 signaling stimulates drug resistance and the limitation of current works is lack of experiment related to role of STAT3 signaling in radio-resistance in prostate tumor. Calcitriol, capsazepine and β-elemonic are among the compounds capable of targeting STAT3 signaling and its inhibition in prostate cancer therapy. In addition to natural products, small molecules targeting STAT3 signaling have been developed in prostate cancer therapy.

Phyto-Mediated Controllable Synthesis of ZnO Clusters with Bactericidal Activity

The rapid development of antibiotic resistance has been considered a major threat to public health. Nanomaterials have risen to be an effective weapon to tackle this problem through multiple antibacterial mechanisms. The improved and tailored physiochemical properties of fine-tuned secondary nanoarchitectures contribute to the superior bactericidal actions of metal oxide structures. However, it is still challenging to construct secondary structures through mild green manufacturing methods. Here, we report the preferred antibacterial ZnO nanocrystal clusters formed by a green structure-tuning synthesis process, in which the primary ZnO nanoparticles with sizes <10 nm were assembled into different forms of clusters depending on the zinc salt concentration and temperature. ZnO clusters with a stable loose-assembly structure and a rougher surface exhibited better bactericidal ability with minimal inhibitory concentrations of 0.5 and 0.1 mg/mL against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. The underlying mechanism is related to enhancing contact with bacteria, releasing small ZnO nanoparticles, and generating additional reactive oxygen species, which could aggravate the damage to bacterial cell membrane and eventually lead to bacterial death. Furthermore, attachment of phenolic compounds from olive leaf extract would promote membrane penetration by ZnO nanoparticles, resulting in the improvement of antibacterial activities, which profit from the green route mediated by Olea europaea leaf extract that could structure-tune ZnO nanocrystal clusters in one simple step that retains the active ingredients on the nanoparticles. This work proposes a feasible and clean strategy to improve the structure-bioactivity relationship of ZnO by controlling its growth into a preferable structure, and the developed ZnO clusters have a good prospect in antibacterial applications because of their excellent performance and green fabrication method.

The Silkworm Carboxypeptidase Inhibitor Prevents Gastric Cancer Cells' Proliferation through the EGF/EGFR Signaling Pathway

Gastric cancer is a common malignant tumor originating from the gastric mucosa epithelium. Studies have shown that bioactive substances such as antimicrobial peptides and cantharidin contained in a variety of insects can exert anti-cancer functions; when compared with chemotherapy drugs, these bioactive substances have less toxicity and reduced side effects. Here, we report the first Bombyx mori carboxypeptidase inhibitor that is specifically and highly expressed in silk glands, which can significantly prevent the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by inhibiting the MAPK/ERK pathway initiated by EGF/EGFR through the promotion of expression of the proto-oncogene c-Myc, thereby affecting the expression of related cyclins. Through molecular docking and virtual screening of silkworm carboxypeptidase inhibitors and epidermal growth factor receptors, we identified a polypeptide that overlapped with existing small-molecule inhibitors of the receptor. In the present work, we explore the medicinal potential and application of silkworm carboxypeptidase inhibitors to promote the development of anti-tumor drugs from insect-derived substances.

The Efficacious Benefit of 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D to Prevent COVID-19: An In-Silico Study Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

The environment has rapidly looked at proven specialist task forces in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic to build public health policies and measures to mitigate the effects of emerging coronaviruses. According to the researchers, taking 10 μg of 25-hydroxy vitamin D daily is recommended to keep us safe. There have been several studies recently indicating that there is a reduced risk of contracting Coronavirus by 25-hydroxy vitamin D consumption, even though there is no scientific data to prove that one would not affect the COVID-19 viral infection by 25-hydroxy vitamin D consumption. In this regard, the present study investigates the important literature and the role of 25-hydroxy vitamin D to prevent COVID-19 infection by conducting an in-silico study with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein as a target. Lopinavir, a previously reported drug candidate, served as a reference standard for the study. MD simulations were carried out to improve predictions of receptor-ligand complexes which offer novelty and strength to the current study. MD simulation protocols were explored and subjected to 25-hydroxy vitamin D and a known drug, Lopinavir. Comparison of ligands at refined models to the crystal structure led to promising results. Appropriate timescale simulations have been used to understand the activation mechanism, the role of water networks for receptor function, and the ligand binding process. Furthermore, MD simulations in combination with free energy calculations have also been carried out for lead optimization, evaluation of ligand binding modes, and assessment of ligand selectivity. From the results, 25-hydroxy vitamin D was discovered to have the vital interaction and highest potency in LBE, lower RMSD, and lower inhibition intensity similar to the standard. The findings from the current study suggested that 25-hydroxy vitamin D would be more effective in treating COVID-19. Compared with Lopinavir, 25-hydroxy vitamin D had the most potent interaction with the putative binding sites of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein of COVID-19.

Metallic and non-metallic nanoparticles from plant, animal, and fisheries wastes: potential and valorization for application in agriculture

Global agriculture is facing tremendous challenges due to climate change. The most predominant amongst these challenges are abiotic and biotic stresses caused by increased incidences of temperature extremes, drought, unseasonal flooding, and pathogens. These threats, mostly due to anthropogenic activities, resulted in severe challenges to crop and livestock production leading to substantial economic losses. It is essential to develop environmentally viable and cost-effective green processes to alleviate these stresses in the crops, livestock, and fisheries. The application of nanomaterials in farming practice to minimize nutrient losses, pest management, and enhance stress resistance capacity is of supreme importance. This paper explores innovative methods for synthesizing metallic and non-metallic nanoparticles using plants, animals, and fisheries wastes and their valorization to mitigate abiotic and biotic stresses and input use efficiency in climate-smart and stress-resilient agriculture including crop plants, livestock, and fisheries.

A Protein Microarray-Based Respiratory Viral Antigen Testing Platform for COVID-19 Surveillance

High-throughput and rapid screening testing is highly desirable to effectively combat the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic co-presents with influenza and seasonal common cold epidemics. Here, we present a general workflow for iterative development and validation of an antibody-based microarray assay for the detection of a respiratory viral panel: (a) antibody screening to quickly identify optimal reagents and assay conditions, (b) immunofluorescence assay design including signal amplification for low viral titers, (c) assay characterization with recombinant proteins, inactivated viral samples and clinical samples, and (d) multiplexing to detect a panel of common respiratory viruses. Using RT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative pharyngeal swab samples, we demonstrated that the antibody microarray assay exhibited a clinical sensitivity and specificity of 77.2% and 100%, respectively, which are comparable to existing FDA-authorized antigen tests. Moreover, the microarray assay is correlated with RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values and is particularly effective in identifying high viral titers. The multiplexed assay can selectively detect SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus, which can be used to discriminate these viral infections that share similar symptoms. Such protein microarray technology is amenable for scale-up and automation and can be broadly applied as a both diagnostic and research tool.