Enhanced Thermostability and Anticancer Activity in Breast Cancer Cells of Laccase Immobilized on Pluronic-Stabilized Nanoparticles

Co-immobilizing laccase-mediator system by in-situ synthesis of MOF in PVA hydrogels for enhanced laccase stability and dye decolorization efficiency

The laccase mediator system (LMS) with a broad substrate range has attracted much attention as an efficient approach for water remediation. However, the practical application of LMS is limited due to their high solubility, poor stability and low reusability. Herein, the bimetallic Cu/ZIFs encapsulated laccase was in-situ grown in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymer matrix. The PVA-Lac@Cu/ZIFs hydrogel was formed via one freeze-thawing cycle, and its catalytic stability was significantly improved. The mediator was further co-immobilized on the hydrogel, and this hierarchically co-immobilized ABTS/PVA-Lac@Cu/ZIFs hydrogel could avoid the continuous oxidation reaction between laccase and redox mediators. The co-immobilized LMS biocatalyst was used to degrade malachite green (MG), and the degradation rate was up to 100 % within 4 h. More importantly, the LMS could be recycled synchronously from the dye solutions and reused to degrade MG multiple times. The degradation rate remained above 69.4 % after five cycles. Furthermore, the intermediate products were detected via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the potential degradation pathways were proposed. This study demonstrated the significant potential of utilizing the MOF nanocrystals and hydrogel as a carrier for co-immobilized LMS, and the effective reuse of both laccase and mediator was promising for laccase application in wastewater treatment.

Enzymes in "Green" Synthetic Chemistry: Laccase and Lipase

Enzymes play an important role in numerous natural processes and are increasingly being utilized as environmentally friendly substitutes and alternatives to many common catalysts. Their essential advantages are high catalytic efficiency, substrate specificity, minimal formation of byproducts, and low energy demand. All of these benefits make enzymes highly desirable targets of academic research and industrial development. This review has the modest aim of briefly overviewing the classification, mechanism of action, basic kinetics and reaction condition effects that are common across all six enzyme classes. Special attention is devoted to immobilization strategies as the main tools to improve the resistance to environmental stress factors (temperature, pH and solvents) and prolong the catalytic lifecycle of these biocatalysts. The advantages and drawbacks of methods such as macromolecular crosslinking, solid scaffold carriers, entrapment, and surface modification (covalent and physical) are discussed and illustrated using numerous examples. Among the hundreds and possibly thousands of known and recently discovered enzymes, hydrolases and oxidoreductases are distinguished by their relative availability, stability, and wide use in synthetic applications, which include pharmaceutics, food and beverage treatments, environmental clean-up, and polymerizations. Two representatives of those groups-laccase (an oxidoreductase) and lipase (a hydrolase)-are discussed at length, including their structure, catalytic mechanism, and diverse usage. Objective representation of the current status and emerging trends are provided in the main conclusions.

Drug-Loaded Biomimetic Carriers for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Therapy: Advances and Perspective

Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment for the lymphoma patient population, despite its relatively poor therapeutic results, high toxicity, and low specificity. With the advancement of biotechnology, the significance of drug-loading biomimetic materials in the medical field has become increasingly evident, attracting extensive attention from the scientific community and the pharmaceutical industry. Given that they can cater to the particular requirements of lymphoma patients, drug-loading biomimetic materials have recently become a potent and promising delivery approach for various applications. This review mainly reviews the recent advancements in the treatment of tumors with biological drug carrier-loaded drugs, outlines the mechanisms of lymphoma development and the diverse treatment modalities currently available, and discusses the merits and limitations of biological drug carriers. What is more, the practical application of biocarriers in tumors is explored by providing examples, and the possibility of loading such organisms with antilymphoma drugs for the treatment of lymphoma is conceived.

Unravelling the Transcriptional Response of Agaricus bisporus under Lecanicillium fungicola Infection

Mushrooms are a nutritionally rich and sustainably-produced food with a growing global market. Agaricus bisporus accounts for 11% of the total world mushroom production and it is the dominant species cultivated in Europe. It faces threats from pathogens that cause important production losses, including the mycoparasite Lecanicillium fungicola, the causative agent of dry bubble disease. Through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), we determine the impact of L. fungicola infection on the transcription patterns of A. bisporus genes involved in key cellular processes. Notably, genes related to cell division, fruiting body development, and apoptosis exhibit dynamic transcriptional changes in response to infection. Furthermore, A. bisporus infected with L. fungicola were found to accumulate increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, the transcription levels of genes involved in the production and scavenging mechanisms of ROS were also increased, suggesting the involvement of changes to ROS homeostasis in response to L. fungicola infection. These findings identify potential links between enhanced cell proliferation, impaired fruiting body development, and ROS-mediated defence strategies during the A. bisporus (host)-L. fungicola (pathogen) interaction, and offer avenues for innovative disease control strategies and improved understanding of fungal pathogenesis.

Thermostable Bacterial Laccase: Catalytic Properties and Its Application in Biotransformation of Emerging Pollutants

Laccases have been predominantly reported in fungi, and primarily, fungal laccases are currently exploited in industrial applications. However, extremophilic bacterial laccases possess immense potential, as they can withstand extreme temperatures, pH, and salt concentrations. In addition, unlike fungal laccases, the production of bacterial laccases is cost-effective. Therefore, bacterial laccases are gaining significant attention for their large-scale applications. Previously, we reported a novel thermostable laccase (LacT) from Brevibacillus agri. Herein, we have confirmed that LacT shares a high sequence similarity with CotA laccase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Peptide mass fingerprinting of LacT was conducted via matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS-MS). Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopic (ICP-OES) analysis revealed the presence of ∼3.95 copper ions per protein molecule. Moreover, the secondary and tertiary structure of LacT was studied using circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The absence of notable shifts in CD and fluorescence spectra with an increase in temperature established that LacT remains intact even at elevated temperatures. Analysis of the thermal denaturation profile of LacT by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) also confirmed its temperature stability. Thereafter, we exploited LacT in its application for the bioremediation of phenolic endocrine disruptors, namely, triclosan, 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl, and dienestrol. LacT oxidizes 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl and triclosan but no LacT activity was detected with dienestrol. The rate of biotransformation of 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl and triclosan increased in the presence of CuSO4 and a redox mediator, ABTS. Transformation of dienestrol was observed only with LacT in the presence of ABTS. This study establishes the application of LacT for the bioremediation of phenolic compounds.

Folate Functionalized and Evodiamine-Loaded Pluronic Nanomicelles for Augmented Cervical Cancer Cell Killing

Evodiamine (Evo) is a natural, biologically active plant alkaloid with wide range of pharmacological activities. In the present study Evo-loaded folate-conjugated Pluronic F108 nano-micelles (ENM) is synthesized to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Evo against cervical cancer. ENM are synthesized, physicochemically characterized and in vitro anticancer activity is performed. The study demonstrates that ENM have nanoscale size (50.33 ± 3.09 nm), monodispersity of 0.122 ± 0.072, with high drug encapsulation efficiency (71.30 ± 3.76%) and controlled drug release at the tumor microenvironment. ENM showed dose-dependent and time-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa human cervical cancer cells. The results of in vitro anticancer studies demonstrated that ENM have significant anticancer effects and greatly induce apoptosis as compared to pure Evo. The cellular uptake study suggests that increased anticancer activity of ENM is due to the improved intracellular delivery of Evo through overexpressed folate receptors. Overall, the designed ENM can be a potential targeted delivery system for hydrophobic anticancer bioactive compound like Evo.

Exploring the Bioactive Mycocompounds (Fungal Compounds) of Selected Medicinal Mushrooms and Their Potentials against HPV Infection and Associated Cancer in Humans

Medicinal mushrooms have been used as a medicinal tool for many centuries and, nowadays, are used in the prevention and therapy of various diseases, including as an adjunct to cancer treatment. It is estimated that 14-16% of global cancer cases are caused by infectious events; one well-known infectious agent that leads to cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is responsible for more than 99.7% of cervical cancer cases and also may play a role in vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, rectal, and oropharyngeal carcinogenesis. Coriolus versicolor, a basidiomycetes class mushroom, consists of glycoproteins called polysaccharide-K (PSK) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP), which are mainly responsible for its effectiveness in the fight against a variety of cancers. Its beneficial effect lies in its ability to arrest different phases of the cell cycle, immunomodulation or induction of apoptosis. Coriolus versicolor extractcan reduces BCL-2 expression or increases the expression of p53 tumour suppressor genes in breast tumour cell lines. Inhibition of proliferation was also demonstrated with HeLa cells, while cervical cytology abnormalities improved in patients who locally applied Coriolus versicolor-based vaginal gel. Coriolus versicolor extract itself, and also its combination with another medicinal mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum, leads to improved HPV clearance in HPV cervical or oral-positive patients. Medicinal mushrooms can also increase the effectiveness of vaccination. This review considers the use of medicinal mushrooms as a suitable adjunct to the treatment of many cancers or precanceroses, including those caused by the HPV virus.

Antagonist Impact of Selenium-Based Nanoparticles Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

One of the cardinal causes of global deaths from a single-point infectious agent has been reported to be tuberculosis (or TB). At present times, the incidence of TB cases occurs mostly due to multi-drug resistance, which is expected to boost further in the upcoming times. Accordingly, the development of alternative treatment methodologies has received significant research interest. In this regard, the application of nanoparticles has notable cognizance. The literature suggested that nanoparticles have substantial potential to be used as the delivery medium for drug injection as well as they also serve as a potential bactericidal agent. In this present study, the efficacy of the selenium nanoparticles against the inhibition of growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was evaluated. The obtained results indicated that the synthesized selenium nanoparticles have notable cognizance towards the inhibition of growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by disrupting the integrity of their cell envelope. This study thus proposes a novel approach and opens new dimensional avenues in the field of nanoparticle-induced cell disruption strategies.

Preparation of nanolignin rich fraction from bamboo stem via green technology: assessment of its antioxidant, antibacterial and UV blocking properties

This work reports the preparation of nano lignin-rich fraction material via green technology from the holistic use of lignocellulosic biomass bamboo. The bamboo is first chemically treated, followed by acid precipitation to extract bamboo-derived macro lignin-rich fraction material. The nano lignin-rich fraction material was then prepared via ultrasonication technique from the extracted bamboo-derived macro lignin-rich fraction material. The confirmation of the distinct lignin functional groups in the extracted lignin-rich fractions has been done by FTIR. Surface morphology by FESEM and TEM revealed spherical nano-lignin-rich fraction materials from extracted bamboo-derived macro lignin-rich fraction materials. DPPH assays indicated that both the obtained fractions depict beneficial antioxidant characteristics. They were found to be effective in terms of their antibacterial activity against both gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) and gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E.coli), using the disc diffusion method. These fractions have UV blocking property, and nano-lignin-rich fraction material acts as a more potential UV blocking agent than others. Thus, the nano-lignin-rich fraction material has great potential as a high antioxidant, antibacterial, and UV blocking agent useful in biomedical applications.Highlights Extraction of macro-lignin rich fraction material using chemical treatment of lignocellulosic biomass bamboo via refluxing followed by acid precipitation.Preparation of nano-lignin rich fraction material from extracted bamboo-derived macro-lignin rich fraction material via ultrasonication technique as a green technology.Structural and surface morphology of the extracted macro-lignin & nano lignin-rich fraction materials have been analyzed by XRD, FTIR, EDX, SEM and TEM.The macro lignin & nano lignin-rich fraction materials showed good antioxidant, antibacterial activity and UV-blocking properties, but the nano-lignin rich fraction material exhibited more efficient properties.

Silver nanoparticles induced hepatoxicity via the apoptotic/antiapoptotic pathway with activation of TGFβ-1 and α-SMA triggered liver fibrosis in Sprague Dawley rats

Despite the extraordinary use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in medicinal purposes and the food industry, there is rising worry about potential hazards to human health and the environment. The existing study aims to assess the hepatotoxic effects of different dosages of AgNPs by evaluating hematobiochemical parameters, oxidative stress, liver morphological alterations, immunohistochemical staining, and gene expression to clarify the mechanism of AgNPs' hepatic toxic potential. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into control and three AgNPs intraperitoneally treated groups 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg b.w. daily for 15 and 30 days. AgNP exposure reduced body weight, caused haematological abnormalities, and enhanced hepatic oxidative and nitrosative stress with depletion of the hepatic GSH level. Serum hepatic injury biomarkers with pathological hepatic lesions where cholangiopathy emerges as the main hepatic alteration in a dosage- and duration-dependent manner were also elevated. Furthermore, immunohistochemical labelling of apoptotic markers demonstrated that Bcl-2 was significantly downregulated while caspase-3 was significantly upregulated. In conclusion, the hepatotoxic impact of AgNPs may be regulated by two mechanisms, implying the apoptotic/antiapoptotic pathway via raising BAX and inhibiting Bcl-2 expression levels in a dose-dependent manner. The TGF-β1 and α-SMA pathway which triggered fibrosis with incorporation of iNOS which consequently activates the inflammatory process were also elevated. To our knowledge, there has been no prior report on the experimental administration of AgNPs in three different dosages for short and long durations in rats with the assessment of Bcl-2, BAX, iNOS, TGF-β1, and α-SMA gene expressions.

Enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticles for cancer treatment using versatile targeted strategies

Poor targeting of therapeutics leading to severe adverse effects on normal tissues is considered one of the obstacles in cancer therapy. To help overcome this, nanoscale drug delivery systems have provided an alternative avenue for improving the therapeutic potential of various agents and bioactive molecules through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Nanosystems with cancer-targeted ligands can achieve effective delivery to the tumor cells utilizing cell surface-specific receptors, the tumor vasculature and antigens with high accuracy and affinity. Additionally, stimuli-responsive nanoplatforms have also been considered as a promising and effective targeting strategy against tumors, as these nanoplatforms maintain their stealth feature under normal conditions, but upon homing in on cancerous lesions or their microenvironment, are responsive and release their cargoes. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the field of active targeting drug delivery systems and a number of stimuli-responsive release studies in the context of emerging nanoplatform development, and also discuss how this knowledge can contribute to further improvements in clinical practice.

Compare the physicochemical and biological properties of engineered polymer-functionalized silver nanoparticles against Porphyromonas gingivalis

Background

Some polymer-functionalized AgNPs (P-AgNPs) have been developed to optimize the biological properties of AgNPs. However, there are no studies in the literature comparing the differences in physicochemical and biological properties of AgNPs caused by various polymer-functionalizations and providing evidence for the selection of polymers to optimize AgNPs.

Methods

Two AgNPs with similar nano-size and opposite surface charges were synthesized and functionalized by seven polymers. Their physicochemical properties were evaluated by UV-Visible absorption, dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Their biological properties against Porphyromonas gingivalis and human gingival fibroblast were investigated by MIC determination, time-dependent antibacterial assay, antibiofilm activity and cell viability assay. Silver diamine fluoride, AgNO3 and metronidazole were used as positive controls.

Results

Comparative analysis found that there were no significant differences between P-AgNPs and AgNPs in nano-size and in surface charge. Raman spectroscopy analysis provided evidence about the attachment of polymers on AgNPs. For antibacterial property, among the negatively charged AgNPs, only polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-functionalized AgNPs-1 showed a significant lower MIC value than AgNPs-1 (0.79 vs. 4.72 μg/ml). Among the positively charged AgNPs, the MIC values of all P-AgNPs (0.34–4.37 μg/ml) were lower than that of AgNPs-2 (13.89 μg/ml), especially PVP- and Pluronic127-AgNPs-2 (1.75 and 0.34 μg/ml). For antibiofilm property, PVP-AgNPs-1 (7.86 μg/ml, P = 0.002) and all P-AgNPs-2 (3.42–31.14 μg/ml, P < 0.001) showed great antibiofilm effect against P. gingivalis biofilm at 5* to 10*MIC level. For cytotoxicity, all negatively charged AgNPs and PVP-AgNPs-2 showed no cytotoxicity at MIC level, but significant cytotoxicity was detected at 2.5* to 10*MIC levels.

Conclusion

Among the polymers studied, polymer functionalization does not significantly alter the physical properties of AgNPs, but modifies their surface chemical property. These modifications, especially the functionalization of PVP, contribute to optimize the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of AgNPs, while not causing cytotoxicity at the MIC level.

Instantaneous synthesis and full characterization of organic-inorganic laccase-cobalt phosphate hybrid nanoflowers

A novel approach termed the "concentrated method" was developed for the instant fabrication of laccase@Co₃(PO₄)₂•hybrid nanoflowers (HNFs). The constructed HNFs were obtained by optimizing the concentration of cobalt chloride and phosphate buffer to reach the highest activity recovery. The incorporation of 30 mM CoCl₂ and 160 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) resulted in a fast anisotropic growth of the nanomaterials. The purposed method did not involve harsh conditions and prolonged incubation of precursors, as the most reported approaches for the synthesis of HNFs. The catalytic efficiency of the immobilized and free laccase was 460 and 400 M⁻¹S⁻¹, respectively. Also, the enzymatic activity of the prepared biocatalyst was 113% of the free enzyme (0.5 U mL⁻¹). The stability of the synthesized HNFs was enhanced by 400% at pH 6.5–9.5 and the elevated temperatures. The activity of laccase@Co₃(PO₄)₂•HNFs declined to 50% of the initial value after 10 reusability cycles, indicating successful immobilization of the enzyme. Structural studies revealed a 32% increase in the α-helix content after hybridization with cobalt phosphate, which improved the activity and stability of the immobilized laccase. Furthermore, the fabricated HNFs exhibited a considerable ability to remove moxifloxacin as an emerging pollutant. The antibiotic (10 mg L⁻¹) was removed by 24% and 75% after 24 h through adsorption and biodegradation, respectively. This study introduces a new method for synthesizing HNFs, which could be used for the fabrication of efficient biocatalysts, biosensors, and adsorbents for industrial, biomedical, and environmental applications.

Design of composite nanosupports and applications thereof in enzyme immobilization: A review

Enzyme immobilization techniques have developed dramatically over the past several decades. Support materials are key in shaping the function of a specific immobilized enzyme. Although they have large specific surface areas and functional active sites, single-component nanomaterials and their surface chemical modification derivatives struggle to meet increasing demand. Thus, composite materials, compounds of two or more materials, have been developed and applied in efficient immobilization through advances in materials science. More methods have been developed and employed to design composite nanomaterials in recent years. These novel composite nanomaterials often show superior physical, chemical, and biological performance as supports in enzyme immobilization, among other applications. In this review, immobilization techniques and their supports are stated first and methods to design and fabricate composite nanomaterials as nanosupports are also shown in the following section. Applications of composite nanosupports in laccase immobilization are discussed as models in the later sections of the paper. This review is intended to help readers gain insight into the design principles of composite nanomaterials for immobilization supports.

Catalytic roles, immobilization and management of recalcitrant environmental pollutants by laccases: Significance in sustainable green chemistry

We are facing a high risk of exposure to emerging contaminants and increasing environmental pollution with the concomitant growth of industries. Persistence of these pollutants is a major concern to the ecosystem. Laccases, also known as "green catalysts" are multi-copper oxidases which offers an eco-friendly solution for the degradation of these hazardous pollutants to less or non-toxic compounds. Although various other biological methods exist for the treatment of pollutants, the fact that laccases catalyze the oxidation of broad range of substrates in the presence of molecular oxygen without any additional cofactor and releases water as the by-product makes them exceptional. They have a good possibility of utilization in various industries, especially for the purpose of bioremediation. Besides this, they have also been used in medical/health care, food industry, bio-bleaching, wine stabilization, organic synthesis and biosensors. This review covers the catalytic behaviour of laccases, their immobilization strategies, potential applications in bioremediation of recalcitrant environmental pollutants and their engineering. It provides a comprehensive summary of most factors to consider while working with laccases in an industrial setting. It compares the benefits and drawbacks of the current techniques. Immobilization and mediators, two of the most significant aspects in working with laccases, have been meticulously discussed.

Enzyme-polymeric/inorganic metal oxide/hybrid nanoparticle bio-conjugates in the development of therapeutic and biosensing platforms

Background

Because enzymes can control several metabolic pathways and regulate the production of free radicals, their simultaneous use with nanoplatforms showing protective and combinational properties is of great interest in the development of therapeutic nano-based platforms. However, enzyme immobilization on nanomaterials is not straightforward due to the toxic and unpredictable properties of nanoparticles in medical practice.

Aim of review

In fact, because of the ability to load enzymes on nano-based supports and increase their renewability, scientific groups have been tempted to create potential therapeutic enzymes in this field. Therefore, this study not only pays attention to the therapeutic and diagnostic applications of diseases by enzyme-nanoparticle (NP) bio-conjugate (abbreviated as: ENB), but also considers the importance of nanoplatforms used based on their toxicity, ease of application and lack of significant adverse effects on loaded enzymes. In the following, based on the published reports, we explained that the immobilization of enzymes on polymers, inorganic metal oxide and hybrid compounds provide hopes for potential use of ENBs in medical activities. Then, the use of ENBs in bioassay activities such as paper-based or wearing biosensors and lab-on-chip/microfluidic biosensors were evaluated. Finally, this review addresses the current challenges and future perspective of ENBs in biomedical applications.

Key scientific concepts of review

This literature may provide useful information regarding the application of ENBs in biosensing and therapeutic platforms.

Successful Rescue of Wild Trametes versicolor Strains Using Sawdust and Rice Husk-based Substrate

<b>Background and Objective:</b> <i>Trametes versicolor</i> has not only been valued in medical use but also in environmental protection. One of the major challenges currently faced in the commercial cultivation of <i>T. versicolor</i> is finding superior strains that can produce high yields. In an attempt to search for high-yield potential <i>T. versicolor</i>, two wild strains, namely VNUA and BV, were isolated and evaluated for potential cultivation. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Optimized culture conditions were set up by one-individual factor-at-a-time. Four different kinds of culture media, including Czapek, Raper, PGA and modified Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), were investigated to ascertain the optimal media. The efficiency of sawdust and rice grain for mother spawn production was evaluated. Different combinations of sawdust and rice husk were tested to investigate the most favorable substrate mixtures. <b>Results:</b> The ideal medium and temperature for the favorable mycelial growth of <i>T. versicolor</i> were PGA and 30°C, respectively. The optimal spawning material for upscaling of the mycelium was Treatment D (20% rice grain, 79% sawdust and 1% calcium carbonate). The strains were successfully cultivated in a basal substrate combination of sawdust and rice husk supplemented with wheat bran. Investigated strains responded differently to different substrates cultivation. Of note, compared with strain BV, strain VNUA showed a significantly higher biological efficiency (7.3%). <b>Conclusion:</b> Wild <i>T. versicolor</i> strains were successfully fructified under artificial cultivation conditions. Strain VNUA can be considered as a potential strain for commercial cultivation. The use of sawdust for the spawn production of <i>T. versicolor</i> can reduce the cost of manufacturing.

Balancing loading, cellular uptake, and toxicity of gelatin-pluronic nanocomposite for drug delivery: Influence of HLB of pluronic

In this study, pluronic stabilized gelatin nanocomposite of varying hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) were synthesized to study the effect of surface hydrophobicity on their cellular uptake and in turn the delivery of a model hydrophobic bioactive compound, curcumin (CUR). Notably, the variation in HLB from 22 to 8 did not cause much change in morphology (~spherical) and surface charge (~ -6.5 mV) while marginally reducing the size of nanocomposite from 165 ± 097 nm to 134 ± 074 nm. On contrary, nanocomposites exhibited a very significant increase in their numbers, hydrophobicity as well as CUR loading with decreasing HLB values (22-8) of pluronic. Further, the cellular uptake of CUR through pluronic-gelatin nanocomposites was studied in human lung carcinoma (A549) cells. The results indicated that cellular uptake of CUR through nanocomposites followed the order HLB 22 > HLB 18 > HLB 15 > HLB 8. This was also reflected in terms of the decrease in cytotoxicity of CUR through nanocomposite of HLB 8 as compared to that of HLB 22. Interestingly, bare nanocomposite of HLB 8 showed significantly higher cytotoxicity as compared to that of HLB 22. Together these results suggested that although higher hydrophobicity of the gelatin-pluronic nanocomposite facilitated higher entrapment of CUR, the carrier per se became toxic due to its hydrophobic interaction with lipid bilayer of plasma membrane. Thus, HLB parameter is very important in designing hybrid nanocomposite systems involving protein and pluronic to ensure both bio-compatibility of the carrier and the optimum cellular delivery of the pay load.

Trends in the development of innovative nanobiocatalysts and their application in biocatalytic transformations

The ever-growing demand for cost-effective and innocuous biocatalytic transformations has prompted the rational design and development of robust biocatalytic tools. Enzyme immobilization technology lies in the formation of cooperative interactions between the tailored surface of the support and the enzyme of choice, which result in the fabrication of tremendous biocatalytic tools with desirable properties, complying with the current demands even on an industrial level. Different nanoscale materials (organic, inorganic, and green) have attracted great attention as immobilization matrices for single or multi-enzymatic systems. Aiming to unveil the potentialities of nanobiocatalytic systems, we present distinct immobilization strategies and give a thorough insight into the effect of nanosupports specific properties on the biocatalysts' structure and catalytic performance. We also highlight the development of nanobiocatalysts for their incorporation in cascade enzymatic processes and various types of batch and continuous-flow reactor systems. Remarkable emphasis is given on the application of such nanobiocatalytic tools in several biocatalytic transformations including bioremediation processes, biofuel production, and synthesis of bioactive compounds and fine chemicals for the food and pharmaceutical industry.

Drug-zein@lipid hybrid nanoparticles: Electrospraying preparation and drug extended release application

The reasonable selection and elaborate conversion of raw materials into desired functional products represent a main topic in modern material engineering. In this study, zein (a plant protein) and lipids (extracted from egg yolk) are converted into a new type of drug-polymer@lipid hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) via modified coaxial electrospraying. Tamoxifen citrate (TC) is used as a model anticancer drug to prepare TC-zein monolithic nanocomposites (MNCs) via traditional blended electrospraying; these MNCs are then used for comparison. Modified coaxial electrospraying is a continuous and robust process for the preparation of solid particles because of the action of unsolidifiable shell lipid solutions. HNPs have a round morphology with clear core-shell nanostructures, whereas MNCs have an indented flat morphology. Although both hold the drug in an amorphous state because of the fine compatibility of TC and zein, HNPs demonstrate a better sustained release of TC compared with MNCs in terms of retarding initial burst release (6.7 %±2.9 % vs. 37.2 %±4.3 %) and prolonged linear release period (20.47 h vs. 4.97 h for releasing 90 % of the loaded drug). Mechanisms by which the shell's lipid layer adjusts the release behavior of TC molecules are proposed. The present protocol based on coaxial electrospraying shows a new strategy of combining edible protein and lipids to fabricate advanced functional nanomaterials.

Purification and characterization of a novel white highly thermo stable laccase from a novel Bacillus sp. MSK-01 having potential to be used as anticancer agent

Laccases are multicoopper oxidases catalyzing the oxidation of phenolic as well as non-phenolic compounds. Laccases show typical blue color due to the presence of covalent Type 1 Cu-Cys bond which absorbs at 600 nm. However, recently some white laccases have also been identified which lacks typical spectra of blue laccases and do not show peak at 600 nm. In the present study, a novel white laccase was isolated from Bacillus sp. MSK-01. MSK laccase was purified and characterized in detail and the purified laccase was referred to MSKLAC. It has a molecular weight of 32 KDa. UV-visible spectrum of purified MSKLAC do not show characteristic peak at 600 nm and bend at 330 nm. The enzyme was repressed by conventional inhibitors of laccase like sodium azide, cysteine, dithiothreitol and β-mercaptoethanol. The laccase was highly thermo-stable enzyme having optimum temperature of 75 °C and could treasure more than 50% activity even at 100 °C. The optimum pH for ABTS and guaiacol was 4.5 and 8.0 respectively. MSKLAC was stable in the presence of most of the metal ions and surfactants. The effect of MSKLAC on lung cancer cell line was also assessed. It was observed that MSKLAC is inhibitory to lung cell cancer line. Thus, MSKLAC has potential to be used as an anti-proliferative agent to cancer cells.

Peptides, proteins and nanotechnology: a promising synergy for breast cancer targeting and treatment

INTRODUCTION

The use of nanoparticles for breast cancer targeting and treatment has become a reality. They are safe and possess interesting peculiarities such as the unspecific accumulation into the tumor site and the possibility to activate controlled drug release as compared to free drugs. However, there are still many areas of improvement which can certainly be addressed with the use of peptide-based elements.

AREAS COVERED

The article reviews different preclinical strategies employing peptides and proteins in combination with nanoparticles for breast cancer targeting and treatment as well as peptide and protein-targeted encapsulated drugs, and it lists the current clinical status of therapies using peptides and proteins for breast cancer.

EXPERT OPINION

The conjugation of protein and peptides can improve tumor homing of nanoparticles, increase cellular penetration and attack specific drivers and vulnerabilities of the breast cancer cell to promote tumor cytotoxicity while reducing secondary effects in healthy tissues. Examples are the use of antibodies, arginylglycylaspartic acid (RGD) peptides, membrane disruptive peptides, interference peptides, and peptide vaccines. Although their implementation in the clinic has been relatively slow up to now, we anticipate great progress in the field which will translate into more efficacious and selective nanotherapies for breast cancer.

An effective in-situ method for laccase immobilization: Excellent activity, effective antibiotic removal rate and low potential ecological risk for degradation products

In this study, we used a simple in-situ biomineralization method to immobilize Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis)-derived laccase into the copper-Trimesic acid framework (Cu-BTC), and the synthesized Laccase@Cu-BTC particles were used to degrade tetracycline and ampicillin. Compared with free laccase, the Laccase@Cu-BTC showed 16.5-fold of activity recovery, higher thermo-tolerant performance, more excellent acid-proof ability and reusability. Without any mediators, Laccase@Cu-BTC displayed high degradation efficiency (nearly 100%) for tetracycline and ampicillin in some actual water. The degradation mechanism and proposed degradation pathways of tetracycline and ampicillin were discussed technically. Besides, bacteriostatic assay and survival test of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and B. subtilis confirmed the loss of antibiotic activity for tetracycline and ampicillin, as well as the low ecotoxicity of the degradation products. Our research demonstrates that Laccase@Cu-BTC has excellent performance in the effective removal of antibiotics and the detoxification of degradation products, which make it a promising candidate for environmental recovery.

Trametes versicolor (Synn. Coriolus versicolor) Polysaccharides in Cancer Therapy: Targets and Efficacy

Coriolus versicolor (L.) Quél. is a higher fungi or mushroom which is now known by its accepted scientific name as Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd (family Polyporaceae). The polysaccharides, primarily two commercial products from China and Japan as PSP and PSK, respectively, have been claimed to serve as adjuvant therapy for cancer. In this paper, research advances in this field, including direct cytotoxicity in cancer cells and immunostimulatory effects, are scrutinised at three levels: in vitro, in vivo and clinical outcomes. The level of activity in the various cancers, key targets (both in cancer and immune cells) and pharmacological efficacies are discussed.

Smart Biomimetic Nanocomposites Mediate Mitochondrial Outcome through Aerobic Glycolysis Reprogramming: A Promising Treatment for Lymphoma

Toxicity and drug resistance caused by chemotherapeutic drugs have become bottlenecks in treating tumors. The delivery of anticancer drugs based on nanocarriers is regarded as an ideal way to solve the aforementioned problems. In this study, a new antilymphoma nanodrug CD20 aptamer-RBCm@Ag-MOFs/PFK15 (A-RAMP) is designed and constructed, and it consists of two parts: (1) metal-organic frameworks Ag-MOFs (AM) loaded with tumor aerobic glycolysis inhibitor PFK15 (P), forming a core part (AMP); (2) targeted molecule CD20 aptamer (A) is inserted into the red blood cell membrane (RBCm) to form the shell part (A-R). A-RAMP under the guidance of CD20 aptamer actively targets B-cell lymphoma both in vitro and in vivo. As a result, A-RAMP not only significantly inhibits the effect on tumor growth but also shows no obvious side effects on the treated nude mice, indicating that A-RAMP can accurately target tumor cells, reprogram aerobic glycolysis, and exert synergistic antitumor effect by Ag⁺ and PFK 15. Furthermore, the antitumor mechanism of A-RAMP in vivo by apoptotic pathway and targeting metabonomics are explored. These results suggest that A-RAMP has a promising application prospect as an smart, safe, effective, and synergistic antilymphoma agent.

Applications of Microbial Laccases: Patent Review of the Past Decade (2009–2019)

There is a high number of well characterized, commercially available laccases with different redox potentials and low substrate specificity, which in turn makes them attractive for a vast array of biotechnological applications. Laccases operate as batteries, storing electrons from individual substrate oxidation reactions to reduce molecular oxygen, releasing water as the only by-product. Due to society’s increasing environmental awareness and the global intensification of bio-based economies, the biotechnological industry is also expanding. Enzymes such as laccases are seen as a better alternative for use in the wood, paper, textile, and food industries, and they are being applied as biocatalysts, biosensors, and biofuel cells. Almost 140 years from the first description of laccase, industrial implementations of these enzymes still remain scarce in comparison to their potential, which is mostly due to high production costs and the limited control of the enzymatic reaction side product(s). This review summarizes the laccase applications in the last decade, focusing on the published patents during this period.