Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Alvin Chun Man Kwok, Wai Sun Chan, Joseph Tin Yum Wong
Summary: Dinoflagellates are aquatic protists with complex amphiesma structures, including cortical membranous cell wall layers and large vesicular compartments called alveolar sacs (AVs). AVs undergo remodeling during cell and life-cycle transitions, and play a role in harmful algal bloom formation. This review focuses on the dynamics and regulations of AVs, particularly in the context of cell division cycles and coral-zooxanthellae interactions.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Brian Shing, Mina Balen, Anjan Debnath
Summary: Research indicates that isavuconazonium sulfate exhibits amoebicidal and cysticidal activity against Acanthamoeba T4 strains, suggesting it could be a potential treatment option for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Article
Microbiology
Alvaro de Obeso Fernandez del Valle, Christian Quintus Scheckhuber, David Armando Chavaro-Perez, Erandi Ortega-Barragan, Sutherland K. Maciver
Summary: Some members of Acanthamoeba are facultative pathogens that can infect the cornea, causing Acanthamoeba keratitis. During encystation, there is an upregulation of glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes, which play a role in maintaining redox balance. Inhibiting GST with ethacrynic acid decreases cell viability by 70%. Targeting GST and associated processes could be a potential treatment strategy to reduce relapses of Acanthamoeba infection.
Editorial Material
Chemistry, Medicinal
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Mohamed Yehia Abouleish, Mustafa Khamis, Taleb Ibrahim, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: Targeting both the hardy structure of the cyst state and the active trophozoite form of the parasite can provide target-directed inhibition as an effective drug strategy in eradicating parasites.
ACS MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Ying Chen, Haoyue Qi, Lijia Yang, Liang Xu, Jiaxuan Wang, Jiazhuo Guo, Liang Zhang, Yuanyuan Tan, Ronghui Pan, Qingyao Shu, Qian Qian, Shiyong Song
Summary: In this study, a loss-of-function mutant of OsbHLH002/OsICE1, a bHLH transcription factor, exhibited a lodging phenotype. It was found that OsbHLH002 and OSH1 interacted and shared common targets, and their binding capacity on OsMYB61, a key regulatory factor in secondary cell wall (SCW) development, was regulated by SLENDER RICE1, rice ortholog of KNOTTED ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA7, and OsNAC31.
Article
Plant Sciences
Helkin Giovani F. Ballesteros, Aline C. Rosman, Thais Louise G. Carvalho, Clicia Grativol, Adriana Silva Hemerly
Summary: Differences in cell wall components between two BNF-contrasting sugarcane genotypes were found to be potentially due to genetic variations specific to each genotype and the efficiency of association with diazotrophic bacteria. The high BNF genotype had a higher cellulose content contributing to increased biomass, while the low BNF genotype had callose concentrated in the vascular tissues, potentially acting as a barrier for efficient bacterial colonization and dissemination. The study suggests a correlation between gene expression profiles in the BNF-contrasting genotypes and successful association with endophytic diazotrophic bacteria.
Article
Microbiology
Allison Campolo, Reed Pifer, Rhonda Walters, Megan Thomas, Elise Miller, Valerie Harris, Jamie King, Christopher A. Rice, Paul Shannon, Brian Patterson, Monica Crary
Summary: This study found that certain contact lens materials can promote the aggregation and encystment of Acanthamoeba, and that Acanthamoeba spheroids obstruct the disinfection action of multi-purpose solutions.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yue Shi, Jinhui Man, Yuying Huang, Jinghan Zhang, Zhifei Zhang, GuangYao Yin, Xin Wang, Shanhu Liu, Ying Chen, Xiaohui Wang, Shengli Wei
Summary: The transcription factor PnMYB2 in Panax notoginseng plays a crucial role in the formation of cell wall by promoting the synthesis of cellulose and lignin. Its overexpression in Arabidopsis thaliana leads to increased thickness of cell wall due to enhanced synthesis of cellulose and lignin. This study provides insights into the mechanism of cell wall formation in plants.
Editorial Material
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Nicholas van Zijl, Jacques T. Janson, Riegardt Wagenaar, Johan Koen
Summary: This is a rare case of mediastinal hydatid disease with pseudoaneurysm formation, successfully treated with surgical removal of multiple daughter cysts and primary repair of the aorta.
ANNALS OF THORACIC SURGERY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Lazar Novakovic, Gleb E. Yakubov, Yingxuan Ma, Antony Bacic, Kerstin G. Blank, Arun Sampathkumar, Kim L. Johnson
Summary: DEK1 is a key regulator of plant cell wall that influences the mechanical properties and regulation of cellulose synthesis. It modifies the biosynthetic properties of cellulose synthase complexes and alters the stiffness and thickness of cellulose microfibril bundles in epidermal cell walls.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Marina da Silva Ferreira, Susana Ruiz Mendoza, Diego de Souza Goncalves, Claudia de la Noval, Leandro Honorato, Leonardo Nimrichter, Luis Felipe Costa Ramos, Fabio C. S. Nogueira, Gilberto B. Domont, Jose Mauro Peralta, Allan J. Guimaraes
Summary: In this study, high-affinity ligands for mannosylated fungal cell wall residues expressed on the surface of amoebas and macrophages were identified. The binding of purified surface proteins from both phagocytes to isolated mannose/mannans and mannosylated fungal cell wall targets was observed. Blocking this pathway affects fungal internalization and survival in both phagocytes.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Shaoliang Xiao, Chaoji Chen, Qinqin Xia, Yu Liu, Yuan Yao, Qiongyu Chen, Matt Hartsfield, Alexandra Brozena, Kunkun Tu, Stephen J. Eichhorn, Yonggang Yao, Jianguo Li, Wentao Gan, Sheldon Q. Shi, Vina W. Yang, Marco Lo Ricco, J. Y. Zhu, Ingo Burgert, Alan Luo, Teng Li, Liangbing Hu
Summary: This study utilizes cell wall engineering to shape flat sheets of hardwood into versatile three-dimensional structures, maintaining the mechanical properties of wood while increasing its strength. By processing wood in this way, not only can the environmental impact be reduced, but the potential applications of wood as a structural material can be expanded.
Article
Parasitology
Min-Jeong Kim, Eun-Kyung Moon, Hye-Jeong Jo, Fu-Shi Quan, Hyun-Hee Kong
Summary: In this study, the differentially expressed genes of Acanthamoeba infected by Legionella were identified and their roles in the formation of excreted vesicles and escape of Legionella from the Acanthamoeba were examined. It was found that ACA1_114460, ACA1_091500, and ACA1_362260 genes were upregulated after Legionella ingestion in Acanthamoeba. Silencing of ACA1_114460 and ACA1_091500 genes resulted in the failure of Acanthamoeba to form Legionella-containing excreted vesicles, while silencing ACA1_362260 gene led to the fusion of Legionella-containing excreted vesicles with the lysosome. Therefore, ACA1_114460, ACA1_091500, and ACA1_362260 genes played important roles in the formation of Legionella-containing excreted vesicles and inhibition of the lysosomal co-localization with the phagosome.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yusen Zhou, Tian Zhang, Xiaocui Wang, Wenqiang Wu, Jingjing Xing, Zuliang Li, Xin Qiao, Chunrui Zhang, Xiaohang Wang, Guangshun Wang, Wenhui Li, Shenglong Bai, Zhi Li, Yuanzhen Suo, Jiajia Wang, Yanli Niu, Junli Zhang, Chen Lan, Zhubing Hu, Baozhu Li, Xuebin Zhang, Wei Wang, David W. Galbraith, Yuhang Chen, Siyi Guo, Chun-Peng Song
Summary: The researchers identified a maize gene, BZU3, that regulates the synthesis of UDP-glucose during grass guard cell wall formation and is involved in protein glycosylation. The findings shed light on the dual role of BZU3 in controlling stomatal morphogenesis and provide insights into the mechanisms of grass stomata formation.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Plant Sciences
Heather E. McFarlane
Summary: Plant cell walls, composed of polysaccharides, provide support and enable growth. Recent research has made significant progress in understanding cell wall synthesis, including the identification and study of enzymes, the development of tools, and structural information generation. However, many questions about plant cell wall polysaccharide synthesis remain unanswered. This article discusses these questions, reviews supporting data, and explores potential technological advancements for future answers.
JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY
(2023)
Review
Entomology
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Yara Elmashak, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: Cockroaches, one of the hardiest insects, have survived on Earth for millions of years. They thrive in unhygienic environments, can survive without food for up to 30 days, without air for around 45 min, and can be submerged under water for 30 min. They are omnivorous and can feed on cellulose and plastic. The gut microbiome of cockroaches and their metabolites may contribute to their hardiness, offering potential for the discovery of bioactive molecules for human health.
APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY AND ZOOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sutherland Kester Maciver, Sumayah Abdelnasir, Ayaz Anwar, Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: Protistan parasitic infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, causing more than 2 billion human infections annually. Theranostics agents, specifically nanotheranostics, offer simultaneous detection, diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases, by using nanoparticles with multifunctional properties. Although the clinical application of nanotheranostics requires further research, they hold great potential as effective agents against protistan parasites, combining the concept of magic bullets with tracer bullets.
MOLECULAR AND BIOCHEMICAL PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Amir Sada Khan, Asma Sakina, Asma Nasrullah, Saadat Ullah, Zahoor Ullah, Zahid Khan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahan Zeb Khan, Israf Ud Din
Summary: Ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are designable solvents with wide-ranging applications. They have gained significant attention due to their unique physicochemical properties, but limited research has been conducted on their phytotoxic effects. Despite being considered environmentally friendly, ILs and DESs have been found to have negative impacts on aquatic and terrestrial plants. This review examines the phototoxic problems associated with ILs and DESs, emphasizing the importance of determining their phytotoxicity before promoting their potential applications. It aims to assist researchers in developing eco-friendly ILs and DESs in accordance with the principles of green chemistry.
CHEMBIOENG REVIEWS
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Usman Ahmed, Mehwish Manzoor, Sehrish Qureshi, Muzna Mazhar, Arj Fatima, Sana Aurangzeb, Mehwish Hamid, Khalid Mohammed Khan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Yasmeen Rashid, Ayaz Anwar
Summary: In this study, ten synthetic Acridinone derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-amoebic and cysticidal activities against A. castellanii and N. fowleri. The results showed that these derivatives exhibited potential therapeutic activity against both amoebae. Compound VII showed strong anti-amoebic activity against A. castellanii, while compound IX showed strong activity against N. fowleri.
Article
Parasitology
Noor Akbar, Muhammad Kawish, Tooba Jabri, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Muhammad Raza Shah, Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
Summary: In this study, cinnamic acid and lactobionic acid-based magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized and characterized. The drug-loaded nanoformulations showed enhanced anti-Acanthamoebic effects and inhibited encystation, excystation, and parasite binding capability. These findings suggest that conjugation of medically approved drugs with MNPs can lead to the development of potent therapeutic medications against Acanthamoeba.
EXPERIMENTAL PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Noor Akbar, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Alexander D. Giddey, Nelson C. Soares, Ahmad M. Alharbi, Hasan Alfahemi, Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
Summary: The gut bacteria of water monitor lizards produce substances that can inhibit the growth of specific amoebic parasites and prevent their binding to host cells. These bacteria also produce various bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial, anticancer, neurotransmitter, and antidepressant functions.
Editorial Material
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Zahi Badran, Anania Boghossian, Ahmad M. Alharbi, Hasan Alfahemi, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: This paper discusses the relationship between the microbiome and periodontal diseases. The formation of dental plaque is influenced by factors such as sugary foods, changes in saliva, and microorganisms in the mouth and gut. Current treatment options include antimicrobial medications and scaling. Dental probiotics, which compete with harmful bacteria in the mouth, and probiotics targeting the gut microbiome are potential treatment options. Further research is needed to develop innovative preventative measures and effective therapies for periodontal diseases.
Editorial Material
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Naveed A. Khan
PHARMACEUTICAL PATENT ANALYST
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: As insects like cockroaches possess unique abilities to endure high radiation, unsanitary circumstances, and digest various materials, their gut microbiota may produce enzymes that contribute to plastic digestion. This article discusses the potential use of cockroaches as an unconventional bioresource for plastic elimination, aligning with the sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations and the global community to reduce or eliminate plastic pollution.
ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Timothy Yu Yee Ong, Sutherland Maciver, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: The study found that intranasal administration can reduce the adverse effects of Amphotericin B, which is important for treating brain infections caused by parasites.
THERAPEUTIC DELIVERY
(2023)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui, Anania Boghossian, Muhammad Kawish, Tooba Jabri, Muhammad Raza Shah, Tengku Shahrul Anuar, Zainab Al-Shareef, Naveed Ahmed Khan
Summary: This study evaluated the anti-amoebic efficacy of novel nanocarriers conjugated with two anti-parasitic drugs (AmB and curcumin) against Balamuthia mandrillaris and Naegleria fowleri. The results showed that nanocarrier-conjugated AmB and curcumin exhibited enhanced cidal effects compared with the drugs alone. The nanoformulated drugs also reduced parasite-mediated host cellular death and decreased the cytotoxic effects of AmB on human cells. These findings suggest the potential of nanocarriers as a delivery method for medicine against parasitic infections.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Noor Akbar, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Taleb Ibrahim, Mustafa Khamis, Amir Sada Khan, Ahmad M. Alharbi, Hasan Alfahemi, Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
Summary: In this study, several deep eutectic solvents (DES) based on hydrogen donors and hydrogen acceptors were tested for their antibacterial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The results showed that two DES exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial behavior and minimal cytotoxic effects.
SCIENTIA PHARMACEUTICA
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Noor Akbar, Mohammed El-Gamal, Seyed-Omar Zaraei, Balsam Qubais Saeed, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
Summary: The study found that benzofuran/benzothiophene derivatives have significant anti-amoebic activity against Acanthamoeba castellanii of the T4 genotype. Compounds 1p and 1e showed the highest amoebicidal activity, eliminating 68% and 64% of the amoebae, respectively. These compounds also effectively suppressed the encystation and excystation processes in A. castellanii. Furthermore, the compounds exhibited minimal cytotoxic properties against human cells and reduced amoeba-mediated cytopathogenicity.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
