Applied Biological Chemistry最新文献

Flavonoids are often decorated with methyl groups, which are catalyzed by flavonoid O-methyltransferases (FOMTs). Most FOMTs methylate flavonoids in a regiospecific manner. Because of the regiospecific nature of FOMTs, the synthesis of polymethoxyflavonoids is accomplished by multiple O-methylation steps. The multistep synthesis of dimethoxyflavonoids can be efficiently performed by a one-pot procedure using a multienzyme biocatalyst. For the one-pot production of dimethoxyflavonoids, fusion FOMTs were generated by the combination of two different regiospecific FOMTs. RdOMT10 (flavonoid 3-OMT), OsNOMT (flavonoid 7-OMT), and ObFOMT5 (flavonoid 4'-OMT) were used in the FOMT fusion. The fusion FOMTs (OsNOMT/ObFOMT5, OsNOMT/RdOMT10, and ObFOMT5/RdOMT10) were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. Activity assays of the recombinant fusion FOMTs demonstrated that OsNOMT/ObFOMT5, OsNOMT/RdOMT10, and ObFOMT5/RdOMT10 catalyze 7/4'-O-methylations, 7/3-O-methylations, and 4'/3-O-methylations of flavonoids, respectively. OsNOMT/ObFOMT5 and OsNOMT/RdOMT10 showed strong dimethylation activity towards diverse flavonoids and were therefore used in the site-selective bioconversion of flavonoids into dimethoxyflavonoids. The E. coli cells bearing OsNOMT/ObFOMT5 successfully converted flavonoids into 7,4'-dimethoxyflavonoids. The engineered E. coli expressing OsNOMT/RdOMT10 converted flavonoids into 3,7-dimethoxyflavonoids. This result indicates that the fusion FOMTs are useful multienzyme biocatalysts for the site-selective production of dimethoxyflavonoids by one-pot bioconversion.

Aconitum kusnezoffii Reichb. is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Asian medicine, especially in Korea, for its potent pharmacological effects. However, its toxic alkaloids pose significant risk, making careful processing essential to reduce its toxicity. This study reviewed the plant’s processing methods, pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, toxicology, and detoxification techniques. Data from several databases, including Google scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web science, peer-reviewed journal articles, classic herbal medicine books, and Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED) were critically retrieved, organized and analyzed. The article’s findings indicate that, various ethnic groups in Asia have utilized different techniques, involving fire, water, or a combination of both to maximize the plant’s therapeutic potential and ensure safety. To date, more than 70 alkaloids, categorized into diterpenoids, norditerpenoids, and benzylisoquinolines, have been isolated from different plant’s parts (roots, leaves, stems, and flowers). These compounds exhibit various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesics, anti-cancer, anti-tumor, anti-arhythmic and pain-relieving properties. Despite its therapeutic potential, A. kusenzoffii. has narrow therapeutic window, meaning even small doses can be toxic. The study explored methods for reducing toxicity and detoxifying the herb emphasizing the importance of modern technologies such as propagation techniques, Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX)-aptamer technology, and Chinmedomics in herbal medicine development. While research on this herb is extensive, gaps remain in clinical trials and efficacy studies. Further research is recommended to evaluate the quality of medicinal materials, understanding the herb’s pharmacodynamic substances, and assess long-term toxicity and clinical efficacy.

Graphical Abstract

A core collection, a minimized set of germplasm representing maximum genetic diversity, is useful for breeding and genetic studies. Developing a core collection is essential for efficient genetic analysis. However, the process is time-consuming and requires considerable effort. Based on previous population structures of maize we hypothesized that kernel types can be representative characteristics encompassing large phenotypic variations. Here we showed that kernel type based entries are useful for developing a core collection representing large genetic variation. Based on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of yellow kernel color and six yield related phenotypes, we found that y1 gene is responsible determinant of yellow color kernel and several genes were revealed to be involved in the yield-related phenotypes. The core collection was powerful to resolve the corresponding genetic components for the phenotypes. These results suggest that kernel types should be considered to include large genetic variation for developing a core collection in maize. This information will be facilitated to develop a new maize core collection.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced in the mitochondria of skin cells play a significant role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and induction of inflammatory responses, both of which are major contributors to skin aging. Antioxidants that reduce ROS production and inhibit inflammatory skin lesions are considered beneficial for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and prevention of skin aging. In this study, we evaluated the potential of Nypa fruticans (NF), which is known for its antioxidant properties, to mitigate tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)- and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-induced damage in normal human epidermal keratinocytes. The major active constituents identified in NF include protocatechuic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, procyanidin B, catechin, and epicatechin. NF significantly suppressed the production of ROS, nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂), while also reducing the levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), which were elevated by TNF-α/IFN-γ stimulation. Furthermore, NF restored the expression of key skin barrier-related proteins such as serine peptidase inhibitor kazal type 5 (SPINK5), collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COLIA1), loricrin (LOR), aquaporin-3 (AQP3), and filaggrin (FLG). Additionally, NF significantly upregulated the expression of hyaluronan synthase (HAS) -1 and − 2 and human β-defensin (HBD) -2 and − 3, which are important for skin hydration and innate immune defense. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic applications of Nypa fruticans (NF) in mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, skin barrier dysfunction, dehydration, and microbial imbalances. By targeting multiple pathways implicated in skin aging, NF represents a promising comprehensive approach for preserving skin health and addressing age-related dermatological conditions. Moreover, NF holds significant potential not only to alleviate the manifestations of skin aging but also to provide a basis for the development of innovative dermatological therapies. Future investigations should aim to further elucidate the clinical applications of NF in dermatology to maximize its therapeutic benefits.

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the adsorption–desorption characteristics and mechanisms of heavy metals by the mealworm frass (MF). The adsorption characteristics of Cd by MF were predominantly influenced by initial pH, MF dosage, temperature, and reaction time. The maximum adsorption capacity of Cd by MF was 48.1 mg/g, which was well described by Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order models. The optimal desorption solution for separating Cd from Cd-adsorbed MF was 0.02 M HCl, which showed a high desorption efficiency of over 90%. In particular, the adsorption mechanism of Cd by MF was confirmed through functional group change, cation exchange, precipitation experiment, and it was found that Cd was predominantly affected by cation exchange and precipitation on the MF surface. The amounts of Cd fractionated by F1 (exchangeable) and F2 (bonded to carbonate) solutions were 58.9 and 25.2% of the total fractionated Cd amount, which means that Cd adsorbed by MF can be easily eluted/mobilized by environmental changes. Considering the above results, it is believed that MF can be used as an effective adsorbent to remove Cd. However, since the adsorption of Cd by MF is sensitive to environmental changes and the bond itself is weak, it is considered that a special management plan is needed.

Allergy is an immune-mediated disorder characterized by an exaggerated response of the immune system to non-hazardous substances, resulting in allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, and runny nose. Current therapeutic interventions include antihistamines and steroids; however, they induce several side effects. Although 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin, a phytochemical derivative, has been demonstrated to exhibit antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-aggregatory effects, its anti-allergic properties and underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the anti-allergic effects of 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin in two experimental models: rat basophilic leukemia-2H3 cells sensitized using dinitrophenyl-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE)/human serum albumin and a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) murine model. Our findings demonstrated that 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced the release of histamine and β-hexosaminidase and downregulated the mRNA expression of allergic-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, as well as the inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2. Furthermore, 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38, as well as protein kinase B. In vivo, 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced PCA reaction, as evidenced by reduced Evans blue dye extravasation in IgE-mediated local allergic responses. Collectively, these results suggest that 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin holds promise as a novel candidate for the development of anti-allergic drugs.

Black sesame seeds, known for their rich flavor and medicinal properties, hold significant potential as natural therapeutics against prostate cancer, a major health challenge for men today. This study explores the traditional processing technique of nine cycles of steaming and drying, which enhances the bioactive potential of these seeds. The impact of this processing on the antioxidant and anti-prostate cancer properties of black sesame seeds was systematically investigated, focusing on the key lignans, sesamin and sesamolin. HPLC was utilized to analyze the content ratios of sesamin and sesamolin, while DPPH and FRAP assays evaluated antioxidant capabilities, and MTT assays assessed anti-cancer properties against DU145 cells. Findings reveal that three cycles of steaming and drying significantly enhance antioxidant and anti-cancer activities against DU145, achieving peak concentrations of sesamin and sesamolin of 21.583% and 14.991%, respectively, with an optimal ratio of 1.4397:1. The superior antioxidant and anti-prostate cancer activity of this sample is attributed to optimal processing conditions that maximize the stability and extraction of bioactive compounds, particularly non-lignan antioxidants, while minimizing degradation; this is likely enhanced by the interplay between various phytochemicals and the effects of thermal processing on cellular structure. Processed seeds consistently outperformed raw seeds—except for those subjected to a single cycle. Additionally, molecular docking analyses revealed compelling interactions between sesamin and sesamolin and key proteins implicated in prostate cancer (FYN, ITGB3, PDGFRA, PDGFRB, and PIK3R1), demonstrating higher LibDock scores than the standard anti-cancer drug 5-fluorouracil. This research highlights the exceptional antioxidant and anti-cancer potential of black sesame seeds, particularly through the three-steaming and three-drying method, emphasizing the importance of the sesamin to sesamolin ratio in developing future anti-cancer therapeutics.

Bioremediation of crude oil-contaminated soil in Kuwait was evaluated using the biowashing pilot reactor system, whose components included 3 biowashing reactors; an oil separator, a hydrocyclone, and a dissolved air flotation. The biowashing pilot reactor system was fed with hemoglobin, a cheap and rich nutrient source containing carbon and nitrogen for bacterial growth. The initial total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) concentration was about 84,000 mg/kg soil. The initial TPH concentration decreased to 38,000 mg/kg soil on day 1. The degradation extents of TPH were 55%, 91%, and 96% on days 1, 3, and 5. The first-order rate constant for TPH degradation rate was 0.682±0.0004/day. The initial unresolved complex mixture (UCM) concentration was 78,000 mg/kg soil. The degradation extents of UCM were 53%, 91%, and 98% on days 1, 3, and 5. Then, the degradation extents of individual components of total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), alkylated PAH, and n-alkanes were measured for 5 days. 16 S rRNA gene copy number was measured during 5 days for bacterial population estimation. Although there was a day delay in the accretion of the number of copies, the number increased from day 2 to day 5. The present study suggests that the biowashing pilot reactor system with a capacity of 200 L is efficient for TPH degradation.

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to generally harmless substances, leading to both acute and chronic diseases, which can be fatal. Mast cells are critical mediators of allergic reactions as they bind allergens and trigger the release of inflammatory mediators. In this study, we investigated the anti-allergic effects of the coumarin derivative 3-bromo-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7-methoxy-2H-chromen-2-one in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells sensitized to dinitrophenyl (DNP)-immunoglobulin E (IgE) and human serum albumin (HSA). Our results demonstrated that 3-bromo-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7-methoxy-2H-chromen-2-one effectively reduces the release of β-hexosaminidase and histamine, inhibiting mast cell degranulation. Additionally, 3-bromo-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7-methoxy-2H-chromen-2-one suppressed the production of allergy-related pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, and TNF-α) and inhibited key signaling pathways, including MAPK, AKT, and NF-κB. Furthermore, in a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) mouse model, 3-bromo-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7-methoxy-2H-chromen-2-one reduced ear edema and Evans blue infiltration, further confirming its anti-allergic effects. Collectively, these findings suggest that 3-bromo-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7-methoxy-2H-chromen-2-one is a promising candidate for the development of anti-allergic therapeutics.

Mn (manganese) exists in various oxidation states in soil, and Mn²⁺ is the most mobile species of Mn, which is toxic to plants and restricts their growth. When soil is contaminated with trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺), Mn oxides in the soil are reduced to Mn²⁺ by oxidizing Cr³⁺ while oxidized Cr is subsequently reduced back to Cr³⁺ by organic matter in soil, leaving Mn²⁺ and Cr³⁺ in the soil. Therefore, the objective of this study was to immobilize Mn²⁺ without altering the Cr species in the soil and to evaluate the effectiveness of biochar treatment in immobilizing both Mn²⁺ and Cr³⁺ in Cr³⁺-contaminated soil. Biochars derived from different sources including rice bran (RB), chicken manure (CM) and cow manure (WM) were tested for Mn adsorption and the chicken manure derived-biochar showed the highest removal efficiency (100%) for Mn in Mn solution. Moreover, 100% of both Mn²⁺ and Cr³⁺ were removed in Mn²⁺ and Cr³⁺ mixed solution without oxidizing Cr³⁺. In Mn²⁺ and Cr³⁺ mixed solution, initially 1.7% of Cr³⁺ was oxidized to Cr⁶⁺ by Mn, which was subsequently reduced back to Cr³⁺ by biochar, leading to its complete adsorption. In Cr³⁺ spiked soils treated with 5% and 10% CM biochar, bioavailable Mn and Cr concentrations were significantly reduced. Therefore, biochar is a promising amendment for reducing the bioavailability of Mn and Cr limiting Cr³⁺ oxidation in Cr³⁺ contaminated soils.