Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Adriana Lopez-Arvizu, Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Amelia Farres, Edith Ponce-Alquicira, Israel Garcia-Cano
Summary: The gene encoding N-acetylmuramoyl-l-alanine amidase in Latilactobacillus sakei isolated from a fermented meat product was cloned in two forms, with or without one of its anchoring LysM domains. Deletion of the LysM domain resulted in a recombinant protein, AmiLysM4, with broader inhibitory spectrum than AmiC, showing activity against microorganisms associated with food decomposition. Both proteins exhibited similar optimal temperature and pH values for activity, with potential applications in the development of novel food biopreservatives.
WORLD JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Adriana Lopez-Arvizu, Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Edith Ponce-Alquicira, Israel Garcia-Cano
Summary: Lactic acid bacteria from salami, particularly Latilactobacillus sakei, were found to have broad antibacterial activity, with a 75-kDa protein identified as the key component responsible for this activity. This protein showed optimal pH and heat resistance, suggesting potential applications in the food industry as a new antibacterial agent.
WORLD JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Agnieszka Morzywolek, Magdalena Plotka, Anna-Karina Kaczorowska, Monika Szadkowska, Lukasz P. Kozlowski, Dariusz Wyrzykowski, Joanna Makowska, Jerel J. Waters, Steven M. Swift, David M. Donovan, Tadeusz Kaczorowski
Summary: This study characterized an endolysin enzyme called LysB derived from Clostridium botulinum, which showed significant lytic activity against bacteria of the Clostridium genus but not against Gram-negative bacteria. The optimal lytic activity of LysB occurred between pH 4.0 and 7.5, making it a potential tool for controlling this important pathogen.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Anshula Sharma, Vikrant Mehta, Suman Rani, Masafumi Noda, Masanori Sugiyama, Harish Chander, Baljinder Kaur
Summary: This study explores the therapeutic potential of L-alanine, produced microbially, in terms of anti-proliferative, anti-bacterial, and anti-urolithiatic properties. The results showed that L-alanine successfully inhibited the growth of important human pathogens and demonstrated significant anti-proliferative effects against cancer cells. It also exhibited potential in treating urolithiasis. This research highlights the potential utilization of L-alanine as a natural therapeutic ingredient with promising therapeutic properties.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Anshula Sharma, Masafumi Noda, Masanori Sugiyama, Baljinder Kaur, Ajaz Ahmad
Summary: This study increased the production of L-alanine in recombinant strains through optimized fermentation processes, resulting in high-purity L-alanine production. The findings have great commercial potential and could contribute to the global expansion of the microbial L-alanine market.
BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Veronique Roig-Zamboni, Sarah Barelier, Robert Dixon, Nicola F. Galley, Amani Ghanem, Heloize Cahuzac, Quoc Phong Nguyen, Bartlomiej Salamaga, Peter J. Davis, Yves Bourne, Stephane Mesnage, Florence Vincent
Summary: The cleavage of septal peptidoglycan during cell division helps in separating the daughter cells. The N-acetylglucosaminidase AtlA in Enterococcus faecalis plays a crucial role in cell separation and its mutants show decreased virulence. AtlA has structural homologs in other pathogens, making it a potential target for developing inhibitors of bacterial pathogenesis.
JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anshula Sharma, Masafumi Noda, Masanori Sugiyama, Ajaz Ahmad, Baljinder Kaur
Summary: This study developed functional drinks through LAB fermentation of buttermilk and soymilk, leading to increased levels of antioxidants, phenolics, flavonoids, and L-alanine, as well as decreased levels of undesirable metabolites causing bitterness, rancidity, and unpleasant odor. The use of P. acidilactici BD16 (alaD(+)) as a starter culture candidate for functional buttermilk and soymilk production was highlighted for the first time.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Frank Oechslin, Carmen Menzi, Philippe Moreillon, Gregory Resch
Summary: This study explored the roles of different domains in the PlySK1249 endolysin and how they synergize for bacterial lysis. The Ami and CHAP domains work together to digest peptidoglycan efficiently, while proteolytic cleavage by host cell wall proteases may modulate the enzyme's lytic activity. Understanding the multidomain interplay of endolysins like PlySK1249 can contribute to the development of more effective therapeutic antibacterial agents.
JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Anshula Sharma, Masafumi Noda, Masanori Sugiyama, Baljinder Kaur, Ajaz Ahmad
Summary: Metabolic engineering was utilized to improve the efficiency of microbial strains for high-level fermentative production of L-alanine. A synthetic alaD gene was successfully cloned and expressed in a recombinant P. acidilactici BD16 strain, resulting in a significant increase in L-alanine production. The developed bioprocess showed promise as a potential alternative to chemical-based commercial synthesis of L-alanine for industrial applications.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maraike Mueller, Matthew Calvert, Isabel Hottmann, Robert Maria Kluj, Tim Teufel, Katja Balbuchta, Alicia Engelbrecht, Khaled A. Selim, Qingping Xu, Marina Borisova, Alexander Titz, Christoph Mayer
Summary: Research has identified that the ybbC gene in Bacillus subtilis encodes a novel exo-beta-N-acetylmuramidase named NamZ, which plays a crucial role in cell wall turnover and recycling. NamZ is able to sequentially hydrolyze intact peptidoglycan from the non-reducing ends and belongs to a new family of glycosidases.
JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Bili Zhang, Chunlin Li, Yue Luan, Yaru Lu, Hai Hu, Yanyu Liu, Kunpeng Lu, Guizheng Zhang, Fangyin Dai, Xiaoling Tong
Summary: In this study, nine HEX genes in Bombyx mori were identified and their distinct expression patterns were analyzed. The chitooligosaccharidolytic beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase (BmChiNAG) gene was found to be highly expressed in chitin-rich tissues and played a crucial role in molting and wing development in silkworms.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Estefania Urdaniz, Mariano Martin, Florencia Payaslian, Lucas Alfredo Defelipe, Martin Dodes, Mariano Martinez, Pedro M. Alzari, Gabriela Cabrera, Marcelo Adrian Marti, Mariana Piuri
Summary: Bacteriophage endolysins play a crucial role in cell lysis and progeny release. The lysin A of mycobacteriophage can hydrolyze the bacterial cell wall and its activity is enhanced under acidic conditions. Mutant experiments showed that the central domain of the protein is essential for peptidoglycan hydrolysis.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Hanako Nishizawa, Mitsuhiro Iwamoto, Yasunori Ono
Summary: In this study, a novel ENGase gene, Endo-Rp, was identified from a thermophilic fungus. The recombinant Endo-Rp showed maximum hydrolytic activity at 60°C and could hydrolyze highmannose-type and biantennary complex-type glycans, but not (2,4)-branched triantennary complex-type or fucosylated glycans. Endo-Rp also hydrolyzed N-glycans attached to RNase B and human transferrin.
JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCE AND BIOENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Piyanat Meekrathok, Marco Burger, Arthur T. Porfetye, Sawitree Kumsaoad, Anuwat Aunkham, Ingrid R. Vetter, Wipa Suginta
Summary: The study elucidates the structural basis for the action of GH20 beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase in chitin metabolism by Vibrio campbellii, showing the enzyme's three distinct domains and its active site suitable for chitooligosaccharide. The catalytic mutants confirmed the crucial role of the acidic pair in enzyme activity.
ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D-STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Anshula Sharma, Masafumi Noda, Masanori Sugiyama, Balvir Kumar, Baljinder Kaur
Summary: This study proposes the use of Pediococcus acidilactici BD16 for enhancing the quality of dry wines through secondary fermentation, resulting in natural sweetness and various health-promoting attributes. GC-MS analysis revealed significantly higher levels of L-alanine and other beneficial compounds in the secondary fermented wines, indicating potential therapeutic effects and improved quality attributes. This research highlights the potential application of P. acidilactici BD16 for in situ L-alanine production during secondary wine fermentation, catering to health-conscious consumers.
BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Alba C. Mayta-Apaza, Israel Garcia-Cano, Konrad Dabrowski, Rafael Jimenez-Flores
Summary: This study focused on the controlled fermentation of acid whey, fish waste, molasses, and a lactic acid bacteria strain to assess the dynamic variations in microbial diversity and biochemical changes. The results showed that treating these by-products can significantly increase peptide production, offering a practical alternative for protein hydrolysis and valorizing nutrient-dense materials.
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Erica Kosmerl, Abigail Krentz, Lin Zhang, Shivani Badiger, Gonzalo Miyagusuku-Cruzado, Alba Mayta-Apaza, Monica Giusti, Rafael Jimenez-Flores, Israel Garcia-Cano
Summary: In recent years, the production of acid whey has increased due to a growing demand for Greek yogurt and acid-coagulated cheeses, leading to an increase in research on sustainable applications. Both academia and industry are exploring different ways to utilize acid whey, with a focus on its potential health benefits in the future.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2021)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Beatriz Ruiz-Villafan, Rodrigo Cruz-Bautista, Monserrat Manzo-Ruiz, Ajit Kumar Passari, Karen Villarreal-Gomez, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja, Sergio Sanchez
Summary: Secondary microbial metabolites play various important roles for producer microorganisms, providing them with the ability to interact and survive in adverse conditions, as well as exhibiting clinical relevance such as antimicrobial, anticancer, and hypocholesterolaemic effects. The synthesis of these metabolites is influenced by factors such as the type and concentration of nutrients in the culture media, and different microorganisms have unique mechanisms for controlling carbon sources. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the impact of carbon sources on secondary metabolite formation is crucial for genetic improvement and product fermentation in industrial and research settings, particularly for antibiotic production.
MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Microbiology
Erica Kosmerl, Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Joana Ortega-Anaya, Rafael Jimenez-Flores, Israel Garcia-Cano
Summary: The synergy between MFGM and probiotics benefits human health by influencing the survival and adhesion of probiotic bacteria in gastrointestinal transit, mucosal immunity, and neurocognitive behavior in developing infants.
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Dulce Ramirez-Rendon, Ajit Kumar Passari, Beatriz Ruiz-Villafan, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja, Sergio Sanchez, Arnold L. Demain
Summary: Microorganisms are important producers of natural products that significantly improve human health. The discovery and study of antibiotics have played a crucial role in treating infectious diseases and introducing new molecules for treating various diseases. Smaller biotechnology companies and academic laboratories contribute to the development of novel antibiotics and secondary metabolites.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Abigail Krentz, Israel Garcia-Cano, Joana Ortega-Anaya, Rafael Jimenez-Flores
Summary: The study demonstrated the potential to improve solubility of pea protein in aqueous solutions by creating stable colloidal dispersion with casein micelles using low-temperature homogenization. The research highlights a promising application for incorporating plant-based proteins within the dairy industry to drive product innovation.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Israel Garcia-Cano, Alejandra Escobar-Zepeda, Silvette Ruiz-Ramirez, Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Rafael Jimenez-Flores
Summary: The Lactobacillus helveticus OSU-PECh-4A strain from Ohio State University shows exceptional beta-galactosidase activity when using acid whey as a culture medium. The strain has a genome sequence of 1,834,843 bp with a GC content of 36.69%, and four genes with putative beta-galactosidase function were identified using InterProScan v5.50-84.0 software.
MICROBIOLOGY RESOURCE ANNOUNCEMENTS
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Karol Rodriguez-Pena, Maria Paula Gomez-Roman, Martha Lydia Macias-Rubalcava, Leticia Rocha-Zavaleta, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja, Sergio Sanchez
Summary: This study presents the characteristics of a new member of the Embleya genus, strain NF3, and the chemical analysis of the secondary metabolites produced by it, the steffimycins. NF3 strain has different biosynthetic gene clusters compared to other known Embleya strains and produces new natural products. The results support NF3 as a new member of the Embleya genus.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Brianda D. Gonzalez-Orozco, Israel Garcia-Cano, Rafael Jimenez-Flores, Valente B. Alvarez
Summary: Kefir, a fermented dairy product with probiotic properties, has shown promising antimicrobial effects through its microbiota and associated compounds, which may act through various mechanisms. While research on kefir's health properties exists, more studies are needed to further understand the antimicrobial activity of its microbiota and compounds.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Silvia Moreno-Mendieta, Daniel Guillen, Nathaly Vasquez-Martinez, Rogelio Hernandez-Pando, Sergio Sanchez, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja
Summary: A robust comprehension of phagocytosis is crucial for understanding its importance in innate immunity. Knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of particle uptake and clearance has helped reveal the role of phagocytosis in health and disease, and is important for designing vaccines and therapeutics.
PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Jerish Joyner Janahar, V. M. Balasubramaniam, Rafael Jimenez-Flores, Osvaldo H. Campanella, Israel Garcia-Cano, Da Chen
Summary: This study evaluated the feasibility of producing stable protein colloidal dispersion by blending dairy and pea proteins using ultra shear technology. The results showed that stable colloidal dispersions could be achieved under appropriate UST treatment conditions, and no sedimentation was observed.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Nathaly Vasquez-Martinez, Daniel Guillen, Silvia Andrea Moreno-Mendieta, Pedro Medina-Granados, Rocio Guadalupe Casanas-Pimentel, Eduardo San Martin-Martinez, Miguel Angel Morales, Sergio Sanchez, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja
Summary: This study explored the mucoadhesion properties, fate, and toxicity of starch microparticles after mucosal administration. The results showed that nasally administered microparticles mainly stayed in nasal turbinates and can penetrate through the mucous epithelium to reach nasal-associated lymphoid tissue. Similarly, intraduodenally administered SMPs were found on the small intestinal villi, follicle-associated epithelium, and Peyer's patches. The mucoadhesion of SMPs to mucins under simulated gastric and intestinal pH conditions explains their role as vaccine adjuvants and immunostimulants.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS AND BIOPHARMACEUTICS
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Nathaly Vasquez-Martinez, Daniel Guillen, Silvia Andrea Moreno-Mendieta, Sergio Sanchez, Romina Rodriguez-Sanoja
Summary: Mucus is a gel that protects epithelial surfaces, and mucoadhesion and mucopenetration are important for drug and vaccine delivery via mucosal routes. Polymer particle adjuvants with mucoadhesive properties can increase the contact time and penetrate the mucus layer and epithelium to reach mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues. This review discusses the physicochemical characteristics of mucus-polymer interactions and the impact of mucoadhesive polymers on immune responses after mucosal immunization. More research on mucosal adjuvant design and development could lead to more effective vaccines.
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Jose Augusto Castro-Rodriguez, Rogelio Rodriguez-Sotres, Amelia Farres
Summary: This review focuses on the enzymatic degradation of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and the challenges that need to be addressed. It discusses the enzymes acting on PET, protein improvements, strategies to improve biocatalyst-polymer interaction, and critical points on PET degradation. The search for and engineering of PET hydrolases have shown significant progress, but there are still bottlenecks in enzyme performance that need to be overcome. Rating: 8/10.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Alba C. Mayta-Apaza, Diana Rocha-Mendoza, Israel Garcia-Cano, Rafael Jimenez-Flores
Summary: This study focuses on valorizing waste streams from the dairy and fisheries industries using fermentation. Previous results showed advantages of rapid acidification and high microbial activity in this fermentation. The study characterizes the peptides produced from this fermentation and provides valuable information for potential applications in industrial fermentation and efficient waste stream utilization.
ACS FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)