Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences最新文献

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Breast tissue may experience structural alterations due to variables including infection, illness, inflammation, or exposure to deleterious compounds, with 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) being a prevalent carcinogen utilized in cancer research. <i>Zanthoxylum acanthopodium</i> DC and <i>Moringa oleifera</i> leaves possess anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. This study aimed to determine the expression of Her2, Cox-2 and Caspase 3 as markers of breast carcinoma after administration of <i>Zanthoxylum acanthopodium</i> DC and <i>Moringa oleifera</i> leaves. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> This study used 36 rats with 6 groups, namely C0: Normal mice, C: Only DMBA injection, C⁺: DMBA-injected rats+Doxorubicin, P1: DMBA-injected rats+<i>Z. acanthopodium</i> fruit, P2: DMBA-injected rats+100 mg/kg b.wt., of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> leaves and DMBA-injected rats+50 mg/kg b.wt., of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> leaves and 50 mg/kg b.wt., of <i>Z. acanthopodium</i> fruit orally for 30 days then dissected and breast tissue was taken for immunohistochemistry procedures. The non-parametric data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests with a significance level of p<0.05. <b>Results:</b> The DMBA injection into the mammary tissue increases Her2 expression, infiltrates the surrounding tissue, including the stroma and forms a solid tumor mass with ambiguous boundaries. <i>Zanthoxylum acanthopodium</i> and <i>Moringa oleifera</i> alone reduced damaged tissue, however, their combined action boosted breast tissue Her2 expression but did not lower Cox-2 or Caspase 3 scores. The expression of Cox-2 in group C differed significantly from P1 (p<0.05, p = 0.001). <b>Conclusion:</b> <i>Zanthoxylum acanthopodium</i> and <i>Moringa oleifera</i> enhanced Caspase 3, which promotes apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Nevertheless, each plant individually diminished Her2 and Cox-2 expression more effectively than the combination.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Ticks are well-known parasites that cause significant adverse effects on goat husbandry. They negatively affect the health of the goat and impair the economic sustainability and productivity of the animal. The present study illustrated the findings on the global research trends of scholarly literature with respect to goat ticks. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> A search keyword was done as related to the subject matter of goat ticks. All articles from the year 2024 were removed from the initial sum of 2018 documents in order to allow for the reproducibility of the method. A sum of 2013 documents was retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science Databank for evaluation using bibliometric permutations in RStudio software. After data were obtained from WoS and Scopus, they were then cleaned up and filtered before they were validated for analysis. <b>Results:</b> Research articles on goat ticks had rising research outputs of an annual increase of 7.36%. China led in the rankings with the highest amount of research outputs (n = 183) and citations (n = 3751) globally. The result also revealed the co-authors per document (n = 6.35), single-authored documents (n = 133), average citations per document (n = 18.65) and percentage of international co-authorships (18.43 %), accordingly. South Africa, Ethiopia, Tunisia and Kenya were the only African countries that were ranked among the top-rated 20 nations on goat ticks. <b>Conclusion:</b> The annual increase in research investigations on goat ticks over the seven decades of bibliometric assessments indicates the economic significance of tick-borne disease in goat farming.

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, has garnered attention for its potential as a natural antithrombotic agent due to its rich composition of bioactive compounds. This review explores the therapeutic effects of propolis, specifically focusing on its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation, promote fibrinolysis and regulate hemostatic balance. The study reviews various experimental models and clinical studies that assess the antithrombotic potential of propolis. It was found that propolis exerts significant effects by targeting multiple pathways involved in thrombus formation and clot resolution. Specifically, it inhibits excessive platelet activation, enhances fibrinolysis and maintains hemostatic balance. Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of propolis help reduce oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, both of which are linked to thrombosis. Key findings include the inhibition of platelet aggregation and enhancement of clot breakdown, supporting propolis as a promising natural alternative for thrombotic prevention and management. Propolis demonstrates significant potential as a natural adjunct to conventional antithrombotic therapies. Its multifaceted therapeutic actions, antithrombotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, make it a promising candidate for reducing thrombosis risk. Propolis could become an important addition to current strategies for preventing and managing thrombotic disorders.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> <i>Alphitobius diaperinus</i> (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is a major pest in conventional chicken farms in Indonesia. The temperature and humidity in the cage should be similar to their habitat. To find bioinsecticidal plants that can be integrated into the chicken house area, this study aims to analyze phytochemical compounds, test toxic effects and repellents of three types of herbal plants, i.e., <i>Lantana camara</i>, <i>Evodia suaveolens</i> and <i>Pluchea indica</i> against adult <i>A. diaperinus</i>. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Toxic and repellent effects of extracts were tested at five concentrations. Toxicity indicators were analyzed based on mortality 2×24 hrs post-exposure. The estimated LC₅₀ of the extracts was calculated from the mortality data at 48 hrs post-exposure. Repellency was observed using a Y-olfactometer tube to obtain the repellency (PR) data percentage. A two-way ANOVA test was conducted to identify significant treatments, using a significance level 0.05. <b>Results:</b> Phytochemical analysis revealed insecticidal compounds in the three leaf extracts. The leaf extracts of <i>E. suaveolens</i>, <i>L. camara</i> and <i>P. indica</i> showed an estimated LC₅₀ value of 24 hrs at concentrations of 86.11, 91.33 and 97.51%, respectively. Extract concentrations affected PR with significant differences (Tukey's range test; p<0.05) and <i>E. suaveolens</i> extract showed the best repellency. <b>Conclusion:</b> All extract sources contain insecticidal compounds, but toxicity and repellency test results show the best LC₅₀ and repellency estimates for <i>E. suaveolens</i> extracts. Thus, <i>E. suaveolens</i> extract has the potential to control and repel the poultry pest <i>A. diaperinus</i> and this plant can be integrated around conventional chicken cages.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Greenhouse tomato production faces various challenges, including soilborne diseases and nutrient limitations, which can impact plant growth and yield. Beneficial rhizobacteria, particularly <i>Pseudomonas</i> spp., have emerged as promising biological solutions for enhancing plant growth and resilience. This study investigates the growth-promoting effects of different <i>Pseudomonas</i> isolates taken from greenhouse soil in Kazakhstan on tomato (<i>Solanum lycopersicum</i> L.) under controlled conditions. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Soil samples were collected from inside (No. 1) and outside (No. 2) of the greenhouse in the Turkestan Region. <i>Pseudomonas</i> isolates were obtained on selective <i>Pseudomonas</i> Agar medium. Four isolates (P1-1, P1-2, P1-3 and P1-4) were selected for further analysis. To evaluate their effects on plant growth, tomato seeds were inoculated with <i>Pseudomonas</i> suspensions at concentrations of 10⁴, 10⁶ and 10⁸ CFU/mL and incubated on Kovrovtsev's medium at 30°C for 14 days. Statistical analysis, including regression analysis, were performed using Excel software at 95% confidence level. <b>Results:</b> The highest root elongation and maximum germination rate were observed at 1×10⁶ and 1×10⁸ CFU/mL, respectively, suggesting these concentrations may be optimal for plant growth. Growth parameters exhibit a positive correlation with isolate concentration, but with varying degrees of response strength. <b>Conclusion:</b> The findings highlight the potential of <i>Pseudomonas</i> isolates as bioinoculants for sustainable greenhouse tomato cultivation, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers and growth stimulants. Further research is needed to optimize application methods and assess the long-term effects on crop productivity and soil health.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Despite its ecological and agricultural importance, <i>Coccinia grandis</i> remains understudied in the Mekong Delta, particularly regarding morphological diversity and genetic variation. This study aims to analyze the species' morphological characteristics and genetic diversity using SNP markers. Specifically, it seeks to assess variations in morphological traits among different populations and evaluate genetic diversity and relationships through SNP analysis to better understand its population structure. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> The eight samples of <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L., the method of observing and describing the external morphology and microsurgery of <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L., was carried out based on the botanical research method with improvements to suit the experimental conditions. The quality of the DNA was checked by electrophoresis on a 1% agarose gel using safe-view dye. <b>Results:</b> The stem height, leaf length and root length show that there are ecological and nutritional influences leading to the above morphological differences. The results of comparing the sequences of 8 <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L., varieties on the NCBI GenBank show that the samples are similar to the sequence of the species <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L. <b>Conclusion:</b> With molecular biology techniques, it has been determined that all 8 <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L., varieties belong to the species <i>Coccinia grandis</i> L. From there, it can be applied to the pharmaceutical production industry to be more diversified.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Nowadays, consumers are more health conscious and choose good food to maintain good health. <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> contains vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, K and key minerals (Iron, Calcium, Zinc and Magnesium), Omega-3, fiber and antioxidants (Folate, Beta-carotene, Zeaxanthin and Lutein). The study aimed to examine the chemical properties, antioxidant activities, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and microbial count of 2 types of <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> kombucha. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> The production of 2 types of dry <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> Kombucha (filtered and non-filtered) was fermented for 21 days. Acetic acid content and alcohol content were analysed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Antioxidant activity was analysed by 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, total flavonoid was analysed by aluminium chloride colorimetric assay and total phenolic content was analysed by Folin-ciocalteu method. Yeast and bacteria counts of the <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> Kombucha samples were done using the standard plate count procedure. The results were because of the Mean±Standard Deviation (SD). The obtained data were analysed by independent sample t-test, using SPSS software version 22.0. As p<0.05 is regarded as significant. <b>Results:</b> The physicochemical of the fermented products revealed that the non-filtered <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> kombucha had acetic acid content, alcohol content, antioxidant activity, total flavonoid content and total phenolic content higher than filtered <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> kombucha. The values were 2.35%, 1.31%, 18.38±0.18 mg/mL, 482.00±8.08 μg RE/mL and 818.88±0.00 mg/L, respectively. On the 21st day of fermentation, the filtered <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> kombucha had yeast and bacteria counts higher than the non-filtered <i>Wolffia arrhiza</i> kombucha. The values were 94.5 and 189.5 CFU/mL, respectively. <b>Conclusion:</b> This study found that non-filtered kombucha had higher acetic acid and phytochemicals, but microbial counts were low due to acid shock. Future research should focus on optimizing kombucha production conditions for more beneficial fermented drinks.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Cancer is a malignant disease in body tissue where abnormal cells grow excessively and uncoordinated. Chemotherapy treatment still has weaknesses because apart from killing cancer cells, it also affects normal cells with fast proliferation rates, such as hair follicles, bone marrow and digestive tract cells, producing typical chemotherapy side effects. <i>Alpinia monopleura</i> has secondary metabolite content such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds as anticancer activity. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic activity of <i>A. monopleura</i> extract and its fractions and determine the phytoconstituents in the most active fraction against three distinct cancer-related protein targets. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> The <i>A. monopleura </i>extract and fractions were tested for cytotoxic against HeLa, MCF-7 and WiDr cell lines by using MTT assay. Then, the most active fraction was identified as its components by LC-HRMS and followed by molecular docking. <b>Results:</b> The most active cytotoxic effect was fraction 2 in HeLa cells, while fraction 4 in MCF-7 and WiDr. Several compounds have been successfully identified as contributing to their cytotoxic activity, proven by molecular docking investigation. It was found that compounds from fraction 2- Dehydroepiandrosterone, 5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one and 2-(3,4-dimethoxy phenyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one-exhibited higher binding energies than Erlotinib, the native ligand with the cervical cancer target protein. <b>Conclusion:</b> Meanwhile, fraction 4 compounds had lower binding energy than the native ligands for each colon cancer and breast cancer protein target. Therefore, compounds from <i>A. monopleura </i>are promising for developing novel anticancer agents.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> <i>Momordica charantia</i> (Bitter gourd) is renowned for its significant pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its antibacterial activity is crucial for treating infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study aims to compare the antibacterial activities of extracts from two varieties of <i>M. charantia</i> (Okinawa and Morya) against 10 human pathogenic bacteria. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Okinawa and Morya powders were sourced from Roi Et and Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Both powders were extracted using ethanol, dichloromethane and hexane. The agar disc diffusion method served as the primary antibacterial activity screening, while the broth microdilution assay determined the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs). The zone of inhibition (ZOI) diameter (mm) was measured and analyzed using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) with SAS software. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. <b>Results:</b> Okinawa extracted with dichloromethane exhibited the largest ZOI at 11 mm against <i>Escherichia coli</i> pk. The lowest MIC value at 0.049 mg/mL was observed in both Okinawa and Morya extracts across all three solvents against <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> TISTR 902, <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> TISTR 2370, <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> TISTR 1466 and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> TISTR 1383. The lowest MBC value at 0.78 mg/mL was found in Okinawa extracted with hexane against <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> TISTR 1466. <b>Conclusion:</b> This study presents the first evidence of the antibacterial activity of Okinawa and Morya extracts against human pathogenic bacteria, including MDR-<i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i>. These findings offer potential benefits for developing natural antibiotic drugs to combat infections caused by the tested pathogenic bacteria.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) remain a critical clinical problem and stem cell-derived secretome reared under hypoxic conditions has been shown to play a significant role in tissue repair via immunomodulation. This study aimed to evaluate the secretome of human mesenchymal stem cell gel (SH-MSC gel) in DFU patients with grades 2 and 3 through reduced wound volume and modulation of CD163 and NF-κB p50 mRNA expression. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> A prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial involved 16 DFU patients with grades 2 and 3. Participants received either a placebo gel or an intervention gel containing secretome from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) cultured under hypoxic conditions. All patients received standard wound care. Primary outcomes included changes in wound volume and expression levels of CD163 and NF-κB p50 mRNA in wound tissue, assessed using quantitative PCR. The Shapiro-Wilk test assessed normality and for normally distributed data, paired t-tests (within-group) and unpaired t-tests (between-group) were used. One-way ANOVA compared means across groups, while the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by <i>post hoc</i> analysis was employed for non-parametric data (p<0.05). Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 10. <b>Results:</b> Baseline characteristics of participants did not show significant differences between the groups. Treatment with SH-MSC gel significantly enhanced wound healing compared to the placebo group, evidenced by a marked reduction in wound volume after 7 days (95% CI (0.467 to 1.18), p<0.001). The CD163 mRNA expression significantly increased in the SH-MSC gel group post-treatment (95% CI (-2.20 to -1.11), p<0.001), while NF-κB p50 mRNA expression significantly decreased (95% CI (0.349 to 0.688), p<0.001). <b>Conclusion:</b> The clinical trial results suggested that SH-MSC gel effectively improves wound healing in DFUs. Further research is warranted to explore additional inflammatory markers to better understand DFU treatment.