Pub Date : 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1186/s43088-025-00673-3
Chau Dieu Bui, Thuan-Thien Dinh, Thang Truong Le, Thuan Van Tran, Chau Dao Minh Huynh, Tho Huu Le, Nhan Trung Nguyen, Mai Thanh Thi Nguyen, Hai Xuan Nguyen, Truong Nhat Van Do, Hieu Tran-Van
Background
Curcuma aromatica (C. aromatica), a traditional medicinal plant, holds promise for addressing oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation through its rich curcuminoid and polyphenol content. Building on our previous identification of five major diarylheptanoids in its extract, this study investigated the ability of C. aromatica to mitigate oxidative stress and modulate melanogenesis with insight into its bioactive compounds’ contributions.
Results
Spectrophotometric analysis of its ethyl acetate extract revealed significantly high phenolic content, with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays confirming strong antioxidative activity. Using B16 cells, the extract demonstrated non-toxic inhibition of melanin synthesis, reduced tyrosinase activity, and downregulated melanogenic proteins such as tyrosinase, related proteins, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (GO-KEGG) along with molecular docking showed that five major diarylheptanoids strongly interacted with these proteins, modulating key pathways involved in pigmentation and beyond.
Conclusions
Together, these findings highlight C. aromatica’s dual action in combating oxidative stress and inhibiting melanogenesis, positioning it as a promising candidate for advancing medicinal chemistry approaches to hyperpigmentation and oxidative damage.
{"title":"Anti-tyrosinase activity of Curcuma aromatica ethyl acetate extract: from lead diarylheptanoids to melanogenesis targets","authors":"Chau Dieu Bui, Thuan-Thien Dinh, Thang Truong Le, Thuan Van Tran, Chau Dao Minh Huynh, Tho Huu Le, Nhan Trung Nguyen, Mai Thanh Thi Nguyen, Hai Xuan Nguyen, Truong Nhat Van Do, Hieu Tran-Van","doi":"10.1186/s43088-025-00673-3","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s43088-025-00673-3","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Curcuma aromatica</i> (<i>C. aromatica)</i>, a traditional medicinal plant, holds promise for addressing oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation through its rich curcuminoid and polyphenol content. Building on our previous identification of five major diarylheptanoids in its extract, this study investigated the ability of <i>C. aromatica</i> to mitigate oxidative stress and modulate melanogenesis with insight into its bioactive compounds’ contributions.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Spectrophotometric analysis of its ethyl acetate extract revealed significantly high phenolic content, with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays confirming strong antioxidative activity. Using B16 cells, the extract demonstrated non-toxic inhibition of melanin synthesis, reduced tyrosinase activity, and downregulated melanogenic proteins such as tyrosinase, related proteins, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (GO-KEGG) along with molecular docking showed that five major diarylheptanoids strongly interacted with these proteins, modulating key pathways involved in pigmentation and beyond.</p><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>Together, these findings highlight <i>C. aromatica</i>’s dual action in combating oxidative stress and inhibiting melanogenesis, positioning it as a promising candidate for advancing medicinal chemistry approaches to hyperpigmentation and oxidative damage.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":481,"journal":{"name":"Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://bjbas.springeropen.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s43088-025-00673-3","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144888099","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1186/s43088-025-00676-0
Zahraa Isam Jameel, Zaman Salman Hamza
Background
Lernaea species, which are part of the genus Lernaea, are widespread parasites capable of infecting a wide range of freshwater fish. Their classification is exceedingly challenging and contentious due to a significant amount of intraspecific variability in morphology and substantial similarities between different species.
Aim of study
The aim of this study was to gather data and molecular diagnosis to the Lernaea species that infect Carasobarbus luteus in in the Shatt al-Hilla, Iraq.
Materials and methods
In this study conducted in Shatt- Hilla, Iraq between September 2023 and April 2024, 26 sample of Lernaea species were obtained from 150 fish sample exam belonging to Carasobarbus luteus. The larvae of Lernaea species were studied by molecular analysis done by primer design for 18S RNA and 28S RNA, PCR amplification, sequencing, and comparing gene loci of 18S RNA and 28S RNA of larvae isolated from Lernaea species.
Results
The sequencing of 18S RNA and 28S RNA revealed that all larval Lernaea from all infected fishes represented exactly one species of Lernaea cyprinacea parasite based upon comparing and identifying a percentage of the Gene Bank database. The genetic characteristics of L. cyprinacea in this study are available in the Gene Bank database, and they were deposited in the Gene Bank. Their accession numbers were demonstrated as LC830719, LC830720, LC830721, and LC830722.
Conclusion
This is the first molecular diagnostic research on L. cyprinacea parasite from Carasobarbus luteus in Iraq. It found all larval Lernaea were of one species. PCR assays and DNA analyses are important in the detection of parasites on fish.
{"title":"Exploring the presence of Lernaea cyprinacea in Carasobarbus luteus fishes via molecular diagnosis","authors":"Zahraa Isam Jameel, Zaman Salman Hamza","doi":"10.1186/s43088-025-00676-0","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s43088-025-00676-0","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Lernaea</i> species, which are part of the genus <i>Lernaea,</i> are widespread parasites capable of infecting a wide range of freshwater fish. Their classification is exceedingly challenging and contentious due to a significant amount of intraspecific variability in morphology and substantial similarities between different species.</p><h3>Aim of study</h3><p>The aim of this study was to gather data and molecular diagnosis to the <i>Lernaea</i> species that infect <i>Carasobarbus luteus</i> in in the Shatt al-Hilla, Iraq.</p><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>In this study conducted in Shatt- Hilla, Iraq between September 2023 and April 2024, 26 sample of <i>Lernaea</i> species were obtained from 150 fish sample exam belonging to <i>Carasobarbus luteus</i>. The larvae of <i>Lernaea</i> species were studied by molecular analysis done by primer design for 18S RNA and 28S RNA, PCR amplification, sequencing, and comparing gene loci of 18S RNA and 28S RNA of larvae isolated from <i>Lernaea</i> species.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The sequencing of 18S RNA and 28S RNA revealed that all larval <i>Lernaea</i> from all infected fishes represented exactly one species of <i>Lernaea cyprinacea</i> parasite based upon comparing and identifying a percentage of the Gene Bank database. The genetic characteristics of <i>L. cyprinacea</i> in this study are available in the Gene Bank database, and they were deposited in the Gene Bank. Their accession numbers were demonstrated as LC830719, LC830720, LC830721, and LC830722.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>This is the first molecular diagnostic research on L. cyprinacea parasite from Carasobarbus luteus in Iraq. It found all larval Lernaea were of one species. PCR assays and DNA analyses are important in the detection of parasites on fish.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":481,"journal":{"name":"Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://bjbas.springeropen.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s43088-025-00676-0","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144880795","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-19DOI: 10.1186/s43088-025-00671-5
Tariq M. Aljarba, Aftab Alam, Ahmed Farag El Kirdasy
Due to challenges such as poor aqueous solubility and compromised oral bioavailability, delivering Vemurafenib via a topical route using a scalable and biocompatible carrier-based hydrogel. This study aims to develop and characterize Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomes for the management of skin cancer. A Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel was developed and thoroughly analyzed using various techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, dermatokinetic parameters, entrapment efficiency, stability assessment, in vitro release study, vesicle elasticity examination, and antioxidant assays. The in vitro release of formulations was analyzed using four models: Korsmeyer, Higuchi, first-order, and zero-order models. The transferosomes exhibited a typical size of 105 nm, with a zeta size of 106.31 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.2417. Among the models investigated for in vitro release analysis, the Higuchi model was found to be the most suitable for the transferosome formulation. Compared to the standard formulation, the Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel achieved a significantly higher concentration of 140.45 µg/ml on the skin epidermis within just 1.5 h. Additionally, in two hours, the Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel resulted in a greater concentration of 118.52 µg/ml in the skin dermis, surpassing the usual formulation. Furthermore, the group receiving twice-daily administration of Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel exhibited minimal hyperkeratosis compared to other treatment groups. The (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) (MTT) assay showed a higher A-431 cell lines inhibition under vemurafenib Hydrogel formulation, i.e., 78.28%. This study offers compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the Vemurafenib transferosomal gel, demonstrating its enhanced skin absorption. The formulation shows considerable promise for further research and potential clinical application in skin cancer treatment.
{"title":"Novel transferosome formulation of Vemurafenib for skin cancer management: biocompatible and scalable strategies","authors":"Tariq M. Aljarba, Aftab Alam, Ahmed Farag El Kirdasy","doi":"10.1186/s43088-025-00671-5","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s43088-025-00671-5","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>Due to challenges such as poor aqueous solubility and compromised oral bioavailability, delivering Vemurafenib via a topical route using a scalable and biocompatible carrier-based hydrogel. This study aims to develop and characterize Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomes for the management of skin cancer. A Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel was developed and thoroughly analyzed using various techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, dermatokinetic parameters, entrapment efficiency, stability assessment, in vitro release study, vesicle elasticity examination, and antioxidant assays. The in vitro release of formulations was analyzed using four models: Korsmeyer, Higuchi, first-order, and zero-order models. The transferosomes exhibited a typical size of 105 nm, with a zeta size of 106.31 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.2417. Among the models investigated for in vitro release analysis, the Higuchi model was found to be the most suitable for the transferosome formulation. Compared to the standard formulation, the Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel achieved a significantly higher concentration of 140.45 µg/ml on the skin epidermis within just 1.5 h. Additionally, in two hours, the Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel resulted in a greater concentration of 118.52 µg/ml in the skin dermis, surpassing the usual formulation. Furthermore, the group receiving twice-daily administration of Vemurafenib-loaded transferosomal gel exhibited minimal hyperkeratosis compared to other treatment groups. The (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) (MTT) assay showed a higher A-431 cell lines inhibition under vemurafenib Hydrogel formulation, i.e., 78.28%. This study offers compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the Vemurafenib transferosomal gel, demonstrating its enhanced skin absorption. The formulation shows considerable promise for further research and potential clinical application in skin cancer treatment.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":481,"journal":{"name":"Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://bjbas.springeropen.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s43088-025-00671-5","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144868890","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-16DOI: 10.1186/s43088-025-00675-1
Suvaiv, Kuldeep Singh, Syed Misbahul Hasan, Arun Kumar, Abdullah khan, Mo. Shahanawaz, Syed Mehdi Hasan Zaidi, Kausal Verma
Background
Huperzine A, a naturally derived compound, has garnered interest for its capacity to inhibit cholinesterase with multifaceted neuroprotective effects and is obtained from Huperzia serrata (Chinese club moss plant). This review highlights its pharmacological potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Huperzine A was used in various neurological conditions in traditional Chinese treatments.
Findings
Acetylcholinesterase is responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and attention. Huperzine A exhibits neuroprotective effects by preserving acetylcholine levels, and also offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. These pharmacological actions suggest a potential role in modifying disease progression in AD and vascular dementia (VD). Although preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated promising cognitive benefits, discrepancies in outcomes still exist. While considered safe at therapeutic dosages, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects, e.g., nausea, diarrhea, and muscle cramps.
Conclusion
Research on its effectiveness in various neurological conditions is ongoing, and its use should be approached with caution and professional guidance.
{"title":"Huperzine A: a natural acetylcholinesterase inhibitor with multifunctional neuroprotective effects","authors":"Suvaiv, Kuldeep Singh, Syed Misbahul Hasan, Arun Kumar, Abdullah khan, Mo. Shahanawaz, Syed Mehdi Hasan Zaidi, Kausal Verma","doi":"10.1186/s43088-025-00675-1","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s43088-025-00675-1","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Huperzine A, a naturally derived compound, has garnered interest for its capacity to inhibit cholinesterase with multifaceted neuroprotective effects and is obtained from Huperzia serrata (Chinese club moss plant). This review highlights its pharmacological potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Huperzine A was used in various neurological conditions in traditional Chinese treatments.</p><h3>Findings</h3><p>Acetylcholinesterase is responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and attention. Huperzine A exhibits neuroprotective effects by preserving acetylcholine levels, and also offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. These pharmacological actions suggest a potential role in modifying disease progression in AD and vascular dementia (VD). Although preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated promising cognitive benefits, discrepancies in outcomes still exist. While considered safe at therapeutic dosages, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects, e.g., nausea, diarrhea, and muscle cramps.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Research on its effectiveness in various neurological conditions is ongoing, and its use should be approached with caution and professional guidance.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":481,"journal":{"name":"Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://bjbas.springeropen.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s43088-025-00675-1","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144858581","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-14DOI: 10.1186/s43088-025-00670-6
M. A. Abdelsamed, N. A. Hasona, A. Lotfy, H. Y. Abdallah
Background
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive subtype of glioma. The alteration of non-coding RNA (lncRNA H19 and microRNA-152) in glioblastoma tissues promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while the exact relationship with glioblastoma is still uncertain with their genes (PTEN, KRAS, and NDRG1). This study aimed to identify new potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and novel therapeutic targets.
Methods
In a descriptive cross-sectional study, we employed quantitative real-time PCR for expression of lncRNA H19, miRNA-152, and their target genes in 84 glioblastoma specimens compared to 35 control samples (low-grade glioma, astrocytic astrocytoma, normal brain tissues). Additionally, for differential expression profile, predictive significance, and survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic analysis and Kaplan–Meier survival plot were used.
Results
The expression levels of lncRNA H19 and miR-152 were significantly altered in glioblastoma patients compared to those with low-grade glioma and normal brain tissues. Moreover, KRAS and NDRG1 showed significant upregulation in glioblastoma. It was demonstrated that lncRNA H19 has diagnostic values with AUC > 0.7 that differentiated glioblastoma from non-cancerous lesions and low-grade glioma. Nevertheless, KRAS and NDRG1 with AUC > 0.9 and > 0.8, respectively, distinguished between glioblastoma and all other comparative groups including non-cancerous lesions, low-grade glioma, and astrocytic astrocytoma. Furthermore, poor overall survival was observed with a median survival rate of 15 months.
Conclusions
The long non-coding RNA H19, along with KRAS and NDRG1, has shown promise as biomarkers for differentiating between glioblastoma, lower-grade glioma, and non-malignant lesions.