Toxicity and antitumor activity of the water-soluble lectin from Moringa oleifera Lam. Seeds (WSMoL) in sarcoma 180-bearing mice.

WSMoL, a water-soluble lectin from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, present several biological activities. This work aimed to evaluated the toxicity and antitumor activity of WSMoL. To analyze toxicity, it was determined hematological, biochemical and histological parameters; consumption of water and feed as well as the weight of the animals. Antitumor analysis included evaluation of tumor weight, histology and cytokine levels. Acute toxicity assay revealed 60% mortality of animals treated with lectin at 200 mg/kg i. p. At 100 mg/kg i. p., the animals showed a decreased food and water consumption as well weight gain in comparison with control. However, no animal died and there were no alterations in blood parameters or histological analysis. Antitumor activity evaluated at safe doses (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) showed a significant reduction in tumor weight. Tumor photomicrographs evidenced that WSMoL treatment reduced dissemination of tumor cells. WSMoL (5 and 10 mg/kg) significantly enhance the immune function in the tumor environment as showed by increased the levels of pro-inflammatory (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-17) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4 and IL-10) cytokines. In conclusion, WSMoL showed in vivo antitumor activity in mice bearing sarcoma 180 tumor, probably by increase the immune response against the tumor.

Genus Streptomyces: Recent advances for biotechnological purposes.

Actinomycetes are a distinct group of filamentous bacteria. The Streptomyces genus within this group has been extensively studied over the years, with substantial contributions to society and science. This genus is known for its antimicrobial production, as well as antitumor, biopesticide, and immunomodulatory properties. Therefore, the extraordinary plasticity of the Streptomyces genus has inspired new research techniques. The newest way of exploring Streptomyces has comprised the discovery of new natural metabolites and the application of emerging tools such as CRISPR technology in drug discovery. In this narrative review, we explore relevant published literature concerning the ongoing novelties of the Streptomyces genus.

Evaluation of ß-lapachone-methyl-ß-cyclodextrin inclusion complex prepared by spray drying and its application against different developmental stages of Schistosoma mansoni in murine model.

BACKGROUND: ß-lapachone (ß-lap) is a naphthoquinone widely found in species of vegetables. However, its poor aqueous solubility limits its systemic administration and clinical applications in vivo. To overcome this limitation, several studies have been carried out in order to investigate techniques that can enhance the solubility and dissolution rate of ß-lap, such as the use of inclusion complexes with cyclodextrin. PURPOSE: To evaluate the in vivo effect of ß-lap complexed in methyl-ß-cyclodextrin (MßCD) on the evolutionary stages of Schistosoma mansoni in a murine model. METHODS: The development and characterization of the physicochemical properties of the inclusion complex of ß-lap in ß-lap:MßCD was prepared by solubility and dissolution tests, FTIR, DSC, X-RD and SEM. The mice were infected and subsequently treated with ß-lap:MßCD orally with 50 mg/kg/day and 100 mg/kg/day for 5 consecutive days, starting therapy on the 1st (skin schistosomula), 14th (pulmonary schistosomula), 28th (young worms) and 45th (adult worms) days after infection. Control groups were also formed; one infected untreated, treated with MßCD, and the other treated with PZQ. RESULTS: The loss of the crystalline form of ß-lap in the ß-lap:MßCD complex obtained by spray drying was proven through physical-chemical characterization analyses. ß-lap:MßCD caused reduction in the number of worms of the 33.56%, 35.7%, 35.45% and 36.45%, when the dose was at 50 mg/kg, and 65.00%, 60.34%, 52.72% and 65.01%, in the dose 100 mg/kg; when treatment was started in the 1st, 14th, 28th and 45th days after infection, respectively. It was also possible to observe a significant reduction in the number of immature eggs and an increase in the number of ripe and dead eggs and, consequently, a reduction in the damage caused by the egg antigens to the host tissue, where we attributed the reduction in the average diameter of the granulomas to the ß-lap. CONCLUSION: The dissolved content of ß-lap:MßCD by spray drying reached almost 100%, serving for future formulations and delineation of the mechanisms of action of ß-lap against S. mansoni.

Evaluation of acute toxicity, 28-day repeated dose toxicity, and genotoxicity of Moringa oleifera leaves infusion and powder.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves infusion and powder are widely used by population due the nutritional and medicinal potentials, however data regarding safety of use are still inconclusive, leading to prohibition of this plant in some countries. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present work investigated the nutritional and phytochemical composition, acute and 28-day repeated dose toxicity, and genotoxicity of M. oleifera leaves infusion and powder. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For nutritional characterization of leaf powder, it was determined: humidity; mineral residue (ash); total lipid, protein, carbohydrate, and crude fiber contents; and total caloric value. Phytochemical composition was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The acute toxicity assay used Swiss female albino mice and oral administration in a single dose at 2000 and 5000 mg/kg of infusion or powder. The 28-day repeated dose toxicity assay employed female and male mice, with oral administration of infusion or powder at the doses 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. The animals were evaluated for body weight, water and feed consumption, biochemical and hematological parameters, and histology of the liver, spleen, and kidneys. In vivo genotoxicity and mutagenicity (2000 mg/kg) were evaluated by the comet assay and the micronucleus test, respectively. RESULTS: Nutritional characterization confirmed that M. oleifera leaves are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals, and fiber. HPLC indicated the presence of flavonoids and cinnamic derivatives as major polyphenols. Acute toxicity did not reveal alterations in weight gain and water and feed consumptions and no change in biochemical, hematological, and histological parameters. Behavior alterations was observed in the first 2 h after administration at 5000 mg/kg in both treatments. Infusion did not present toxicity when administered for 28 days. Conversely, the powder at 500 and 1000 mg/kg promoted liver and kidney damages observed through biochemical parameters and histopathology. Genotoxicity and mutagenicity were not detected at 2000 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS: The present study reveals that M. oleifera leaves are an important source of polyphenols and nutrients. Indiscriminate use of both infusion and crude leaf powder above 2000 mg/kg and powder at 500 and 1000 mg/kg are not recommended. Chronic toxicological studies and establishment of preparation protocols are suggested aiming to guarantee the safety in the use of M. oleifera leaves as nutraceutical by population.

Skincare application of medicinal plant polysaccharides - A review.

Polysaccharides are macromolecules with important inherent properties and potential biotechnological applications. These complex carbohydrates exist throughout nature, especially in plants, from which they can be obtained with high yields. Different extraction and purification methods may affect the structure of polysaccharides and, due to the close relationship between structure and function, modify their biological activities. One of the possible applications of these polysaccharides is acting on the skin, which is the largest organ in the human body and can be aged by intrinsic and extrinsic processes. Skincare has been gaining worldwide attention not only to prevent diseases but also to promote rejuvenation in aesthetic treatments. In this review, we discussed the polysaccharides obtained from plants and their innovative potential for skin applications, for example as wound-healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, antitumoral, and anti-aging compounds.

The Natural Compound Hydrophobic Usnic Acid and Hydrophilic Potassium Usnate Derivative: Applications and Comparisons.

Usnic acid is the best-studied lichen metabolite, presenting several biological activities, such as antibacterial, immunostimulating, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic agents; despite these relevant properties, it is a hydrophobic and toxic molecule. In this context, scientific research has driven the development of innovative alternatives, considering usnic acid as a source of raw material in obtaining new molecules, allowing structural modifications (syntheses) from it. The purpose is to optimize biological activities and toxicity, with less concentration and/or response time. This work presents a literature review with an analogy of the hydrophobic molecule of usnic acid with its hydrophilic derivative of potassium usnate, emphasizing the elucidation and structural characteristics, biological activities, and toxicological aspects of both molecules, and the advantages of using the promising derivative hydrophilic in different in vitro and in vivo assays when compared to usnic acid.

Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of aqueous extracts of Cucurbita pepo L / Atividades antimicrobiana e antibiofilme de extratos aquosos de Cucurbita pepo L

Introduction: Cucurbita pepo L. is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae. The species is popularly used in different countries for the treatment of diabetes and parasitic diseases. Objective: This study evaluated the antimicrobial and antibiofilm potential of aqueous extracts of leaves and seeds of C. pepo. Methodology: the extracts were tested in vitro against strains of Streptococcus pyogenes, Candida albicans and Candida krusei. The antimicrobial activity was performed by the microtiter method and the antibiofilm activity by the violet crystal method. Results: the results demonstrated that the extracts tested showed antibacterial and antibiofilm actions against S. pyogenes, but it was not possible to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The extracts inhibited the growth of C. albicans and C. krusei with MIC of 0.03 mg/mL. The antibiofilm activity of these species did not present either a dose dependence relationship or a synergistic effect when associated with the antifungal Fluconazole®. Conclusion: although there are indications of antimicrobial and inhibitory action in the formation of biofilm, additional studies are necessary to characterize the possible pharmacological effects of the analyzed specie.

Introdução: Cucurbita pepo L. é uma planta herbácea pertencente à família Cucurbitaceae. A espécie é usada popularmente em diferentes países para tratamento de diabetes e parasitoses. Objetivo: esse trabalho objetivou avaliar o potencial antimicrobiano e antibiofilme de extratos aquosos de folhas e sementes de C. pepo. Metodologia: os extratos foram testados in vitro contra cepas de Streptococcus pyogenes, Candida albicans e Candida krusei. A atividade antimicrobiana foi realizada pelo método de microtitulação e a atividade antibiofilme pelo método de cristal de violeta. Resultados: os resultados demonstraram que os extratos testados apresentaram ação contra S. pyogenes, tanto em relação ao controle do crescimento bacteriano como inibição de formação de biofilme, mas não foi possível determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM). Os extratos inibiram o crescimento C. albicans e C. krusei com CIM de 0.03 mg/mL. A atividade antibiofilme dessas espécies não apresentou relação de dose dependência nem de efeito sinérgico quando associado ao antifúngico Fluconazol®. Conclusão: Embora haja indicativos de ação antimicrobiana e inibitória na formação de biofilme, são necessários estudos adicionais para a caracterização dos possíveis efeitos farmacológicos da espécie analisada.

Antitumor activity of Moringa oleifera (drumstick tree) flower trypsin inhibitor (MoFTI) in sarcoma 180-bearing mice.

The plant Moringa oleifera is used as food and medicine. M. oleifera flowers are source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, and are used to treat inflammation and tumors. This work evaluated the antitumor activity of the M. oleifera flower trypsin inhibitor (MoFTI) in sarcoma 180-bearing mice. Swiss female mice were inoculated with sarcoma 180 cells. Seven days later, the animals were treated intraperitoneally for 1 week with daily doses of PBS (control) or MoFTI (15 or 30 mg/kg). For toxicity assessment, water and food consumption, body and organ weights, histological alterations, and blood hematological and biochemical parameters were measured. Treatment with MoFTI caused pronounced reduction (90.1%-97.9%) in tumor weight. The tumors of treated animals had a reduced number of secondary vessels and lower gauge of the primary vessels compared to the control. No significant changes were observed in water and food consumption or in body and organ weights. Histopathological analysis did not indicate damage to the liver, kidneys, and spleen. In conclusion, MoFTI showed antitumor potential, with no clear evidence of toxicity.

Investigation of the ability of the oviposition-stimulant lectin from Moringa oleifera seeds (WSMoL) to bind with membrane proteins present in the legs of Aedes aegypti.

The mosquito Aedes aegypti L. is a vector transmitting diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus fever. The water-soluble lectin from Moringa oleifera Lam. seeds (WSMoL) is larvicidal, ovicidal and can stimulate oviposition in A. aegypti. This study aimed to investigate whether WSMoL could bind to membrane proteins from A. aegypti legs. Initially, proteins from the legs were extracted using sodium deoxycholate, digitonin, dodecyl sodium sulfate (SDS) or Triton X-100. The protein concentration was found to be higher in the extract obtained using Triton X-100, which was applied to a WSMoL-Sepharose column. The adsorbed proteins were evaluated using gel filtration chromatography and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) in presence of SDS. The similarity in the sequences of adsorbed proteins with those available in databases was determined. The proteins adsorbed on the matrix were eluted forming a single peak. Gel filtration chromatography and SDS-PAGE revealed the presence of proteins with molecular masses of approximately 20 kDa and polypeptide bands of 17.0 and 23.7 kDa, respectively. MS/MS analysis indicated similarity between these proteins and ABC carriers, which are expressed in the legs of mosquitos. WSMoL could bind to membrane proteins in the legs of A. aegypti females and induce oviposition through these interactions.

Avaliação dos Efeitos Cardíacos de Lectina Solúvel em Água (WSMoL) de Sementes de Moringa Oleifera / Evaluation of the Cardiac Effects of a Water-Soluble Lectin (Wsmol) from Moringa Oleifera Seeds

Resumo Fundsamento As sementes de Moringa oleifera , que são utilizadas para clarificação de água, contêm uma lectina chamada WSMoL que tem mostrado atividade antibacteriana e imunomoduladora in vitro . Devido ao seu valor nutritivo e potencial terapêutico, as folhas e as sementes dessa árvore são consumidas em algumas comunidades. Algumas lectinas de plantas não são tóxicas para mamíferos, mas tem sido relatado que outras são prejudiciais quando ingeridas ou administradas por outros meios. Objetivo Como um dos passos necessários para determinar a segurança de WSMoL, nós avaliamos os possíveis efeitos cardiotóxicos desta proteína purificada. Métodos Durante 21 dias consecutivos, a WSMoL foi administrada a camundongos por gavagem. Foram investigadas as funções eletrofisiológicas, mecânicas e metabólicas in vivo e ex vivo por meio de registros eletrocardiográficos, ressonância magnética nuclear e respirometria de alta resolução. Resultados O tratamento com WSMoL não induziu alterações nos níveis de glicose no sangue ou peso corporal em comparação com o grupo controle. Adicionalmente, as relações peso cardíaco/peso corporal e peso cardíaco/comprimento tibial estavam semelhantes em ambos os grupos. A ingestão de lectina também não modificou a tolerância à glicose ou resistência à insulina. Não foram observadas alterações nos parâmetros eletrocardiográficos ou na duração do potencial de ação cardíaco. Os corações dos camundongos dos grupos controle e WSMoL mostraram função ventricular esquerda preservada. Além disso, a WSMoL não induziu alterações na função mitocondrial (em todos os casos, p > 0,05). Conclusões A administração de WSMoL demonstrou ter um perfil de segurança cardíaca. Estes resultados contribuem à avaliação de segurança do uso de sementes de M. oleifera para tratar água, visto que essa lectina está presente na preparação empregada por algumas populações com esse fim. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Moringa oleifera seeds, which are used for water clarification, contain a lectin named WSMoL which has shown in vitro antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity. Due to their nutritional value and therapeutic potential, the leaves and seeds of this tree are eaten in some communities. Some plant lectins are non-toxic to mammals, but others have been reported to be harmful when ingested or administered by other means. Objective As one of the steps needed to define the safety of WSMoL, we evaluated possible cardiotoxic effects of this purified protein. Methods: WSMoL was administered for 21 consecutive days to mice by gavage. Electrophysiological, mechanical, and metabolic cardiac functions were investigated by in vivo and ex vivo electrocardiographic recordings, nuclear magnetic resonance, and high-resolution respirometry. Results The treatment with WSMoL did not induce changes in blood glucose levels or body weight in comparison with control group. Moreover, the heart weight/body weight and heart weight/tibia length ratios were similar in both groups. Lectin ingestion also did not modify glucose tolerance or insulin resistance. No alterations were observed in electrocardiographic parameters or cardiac action potential duration. The heart of mice from the control and WSMoL groups showed preserved left ventricular function. Furthermore, WSMoL did not induce changes in mitochondrial function (in all cases, p > 0.05). Conclusions The administration of WSMoL demonstrated a cardiac safety profile. These results contribute to the safety evaluation of using M. oleifera seeds to treat water, since this lectin is present in the preparation employed by some populations to this end. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Epiphanies of well-known and newly discovered macromolecular carbohydrates - A review.

Carbohydrates are complex biopolymers naturally found in almost all living organisms; their structural variability is gaining much attention in the field of glycobiology. Originally, macromolecular carbohydrates have been developed on huge industrial scales for foodstuffs, oil well drilling, textiles, paper, and electrical insulation. Over the last few decades, however, in addition to these applications, dependent on the physicochemical properties, carbohydrate polymers has presented biological activities. Polysaccharides are now extensively exploited for their remarkable applications in the pharmaceutical industries and biomedicine. An increasing number of oligo- and poly-saccharides now have their monosaccharide composition and structure defined. Many of their biological activities have been related to their chemical structures. Carbohydrates have the capability of binding onto the cell surface of microorganisms to induce the disruption of the cell membrane. They can reduce worm and egg burden, and act as carriers for biopesticides. Carbohydrates affect immune responses, suggesting potential immunomodulatory functions, including the use of adjuvants in vaccines. In addition, they also have therapeutic potential, for example acting as wound healing agents and blocking the high rate of proliferation of malignant cells. This review provides a summary of recent developments in biotechnology and biomedical treatments using well-established and newly described carbohydrates.

Biomarkers, Biosensors and Biomedicine.

The discovery of new biomarkers associated with cancer, neurological and cardiovascular diseases is necessary, since these are common, recurrent diseases considered as leading causes of death in the human population. Molecular signatures of these disorders that can be identified at the outset of their pathogenesis leading to prompt and targeted treatment may increase patient survival. Cancer is a heterogeneous disease that can be expressed differently among individuals; in addition, treatments may have a differentiated approach according to the type of malignant neoplasm. Thus, these neoplastic cells can synthesize and release specific molecules depending on the site where carcinogenesis begins. Moreover, life expectancy is increasing especially in developed countries, however, cases of neurodegenerative diseases have grown in the older members of the population. Commonly, some neurological disorders, which can occur physiologically by the process of senescence, are confused with Alzheimer's Disease (AD). In addition, cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world; studies capable of identifying, through molecular probes, the beginning of development of an atherosclerotic process can lead to early treatment to avoid an acute myocardial infarction. Accuracy in the detection of these biomarkers can be obtained through biosensors whose design has been increasingly studied to elaborate inexpensive sensory platforms capable of precise detection, even at low concentrations, of the molecule to be measured. The aim of this review is to address biomarkers to be used in diagnoses instead of invasive exams; biosensors for the specific and sensitive detection of these biological markers are also investigated.

Glycosylation products in prostate diseases.

Although prostate cancer is notable for its high incidence and mortality in men worldwide, its identification remains a challenge. Biomarkers have been useful tools for the specific detection of prostate cancer. Unfortunately, benign prostate diseases cause similar alterations in screening assays thus reducing the potential for early and specific diagnosis. Changes in glycan and glycoprotein expression have often been associated with the onset and progression of cancer. Abnormal glycans and glycoproteins have been reported as new biomarkers of prostate metabolism that can distinguish benign prostate disease and cancer in non-aggressive and aggressive stages. Carbohydrate-binding proteins known as lectins have been valuable tools to detect these changes, investigate potential biomarkers and improve our understanding aberrant glycosylation in cancer. Here we review progress in elucidating prostate disease and discuss the roles of glycans in the differential detection of benign and cancerous prostate disease. We also summarize the lectin-based tools for detecting glycosylation changes.

Insights into anti-pathogenic activities of mannose lectins.

Carbohydrate-binding proteins, also known as lectins, are valuable tools for biotechnology, including pharmacological uses. Mannose lectins obtained from plant and animal sources are applied to protection and characterization of autoimmune diseases as well as defense proteins against pathogens. The presence of mannose-binding lectins in plants that also recognize glucose could be entitled Man/Glc lectins; such specificity has allowed employing these vegetal lectins for several applications. Animal mannose-binding lectins are synthesized in the liver and secreted into the blood stream where both concentration and activity are greatly affected due to gene polymorphisms; these serum proteins play important roles in the immune system by recognizing mannose-like carbohydrate ligands found exclusively on pathogenic microorganisms. Mannose lectins already showed strong binding to relevant bacteria, viruses, protozoa and helminth species, initiating potent host defense mechanisms by inducing growth inhibition or death of such organisms; the ability to prevent the formation or destruction of microbial biofilms has also been reported. Mannose-binding lectins have attracted considerable attention against carcinogenesis and atherogenesis. The aim of this review article is to approach biotechnology characteristics of these lectins from different sources and microorganism/cell surface interactions with mannose; in addition, aspects of mechanisms associated to lectin antipathogenic activities are described.

Cytotoxicity of the coagulant Moringa oleifera lectin (cMoL) to B16-F10 melanoma cells.

Moringa oleifera seeds are used in alternative medicine to treat inflammation, tumors and bacterial and protozoan infections, for example. The seeds contain lectins, which are carbohydrate-binding proteins with several biological properties including cytotoxicity to cancer cells. In this work, we examined the cytotoxicity of the coagulant M. oleifera lectin (cMoL) on B16-F10 murine melanoma cells. cMoL cytotoxic effects were evaluated through trypan blue assay and flow cytometry analysis. Mitochondrial superoxide levels and activation of caspases 3, 8 and 9 were measured. cMoL (1.5-16µM) reduced viability and caused cell death of B16-F10 cells with an IC50 of 9.72µM. Flow cytometry analysis indicated induction of necrosis and suggested the presence of cells in late apoptosis. Specificity for tumor cells was observed since death of normal human fibroblasts (GN) was not higher than 20% in treatments with cMoL from 1.5 to 16µM. Microscopy images revealed rounded shape and reduction of volume in B16-F10 cells treated with cMoL. cMoL increased mitochondrial ROS production and promoted caspases 3, 8 and 9 activation in B16-F10 cells, indicating the activation of apoptosis-related pathway. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that cMoL is cytotoxic to B16-F10 cells, which stimulates more investigation on the anticancer potential of this lectin.

Lectins, Interconnecting Proteins with Biotechnological/Pharmacological and Therapeutic Applications.

Lectins are proteins extensively used in biomedical applications with property to recognize carbohydrates through carbohydrate-binding sites, which identify glycans attached to cell surfaces, glycoconjugates, or free sugars, detecting abnormal cells and biomarkers related to diseases. These lectin abilities promoted interesting results in experimental treatments of immunological diseases, wounds, and cancer. Lectins obtained from virus, microorganisms, algae, animals, and plants were reported as modulators and tool markers in vivo and in vitro; these molecules also play a role in the induction of mitosis and immune responses, contributing for resolution of infections and inflammations. Lectins revealed healing effect through induction of reepithelialization and cicatrization of wounds. Some lectins have been efficient agents against virus, fungi, bacteria, and helminths at low concentrations. Lectin-mediated bioadhesion has been an interesting characteristic for development of drug delivery systems. Lectin histochemistry and lectin-based biosensors are useful to detect transformed tissues and biomarkers related to disease occurrence; antitumor lectins reported are promising for cancer therapy. Here, we address lectins from distinct sources with some biological effect and biotechnological potential in the diagnosis and therapeutic of diseases, highlighting many advances in this growing field.

Evaluation of using aluminum sulfate and water-soluble Moringa oleifera seed lectin to reduce turbidity and toxicity of polluted stream water.

Aluminum salts are used as coagulants in water treatment; however, the exposure to residual aluminum has been associated with human brain lesions. The water-soluble Moringa oleifera lectin (WSMoL), which is extracted with distilled water and isolated by chitin chromatography, has coagulant activity and is able to reduce the concentration of metal ions in aqueous solutions. This study evaluated the potential of using aluminum sulfate and WSMoL to reduce the turbidity and toxicity of water from the Cavouco stream located in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. The water sample used (called P1) was collected from the stream source, which was found to be strongly polluted based on physicochemical and water quality analyses, as well as ecotoxicity assays with Artemia salina and seeds of Eruca sativa and Lactuca sativa. The assays combining WSMoL and aluminum sulfate were more efficient than those that used these agents separately. Furthermore, the greatest reduction in turbidity (96.8%) was obtained with the treatment using aluminum sulfate followed by WSMoL, compared to when they were applied simultaneously (91.3%). In addition, aluminum sulfate followed by WSMoL treatment resulted in residual aluminum concentration (0.3 mg/L) that was much lower than that recorded after the treatment using only the salt (35.5 mg/L). The ecotoxicity of P1 was also strongly reduced after the treatments. In summary, the combined use of aluminum sulfate and WSMoL was efficient in promoting a strong reduction of turbidity and ecotoxicity of a polluted water sample, without resulting in a high residual aluminum concentration at the conclusion of the treatment.

Coagulant Activity of Water-Soluble Moringa oleifera Lectin Is Linked to Lowering of Electrical Resistance and Inhibited by Monosaccharides and Magnesium Ions.

Moringa oleifera seeds contain a water-soluble lectin [water-soluble M. oleifera lectin (WSMoL)] that has shown coagulant activity. Magnesium ions are able to interfere with the ability of this lectin to bind carbohydrates. In this study, we performed structural characterization of WSMoL and analyzed its effect on the electrical resistance of a kaolin clay suspension in both presence and absence of monosaccharides (N-acetylglucosamine, glucose, or fructose) and magnesium ions. The coagulant activity of WSMoL was monitored by measuring optical density and electrical resistance over a period of 60 min. Native WSMoL had a molecular mass of 60 kDa and exhibited anionic nature (pI 5.5). In sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), it appeared as three polypeptide bands of 30, 20, and 10 kDa. WSMoL reduced the optical density and electrical resistance of the kaolin suspension, which suggests that suspended particles are destabilized and that this is followed by formation of complexes. The coagulant activity of lectin decreased in the presence of Mg2+ ions and carbohydrates at concentrations that also inhibited hemagglutinating activity. This was most likely due to conformational changes in lectin structure. Our findings suggest that the coagulant activity of WSMoL is enhanced by lowering of electrical resistance of the medium and is impaired by lectin-carbohydrate and lectin-Mg2+ interactions.

Digestive enzymes from workers and soldiers of termite Nasutitermes corniger.

The digestive apparatus of termites may have several biotechnological applications, as well as being a target for pest control. This report discusses the detection of cellulases (endoglucanase, exoglucanase, and ß-glucosidase), hemicellulases (ß-xylosidase, α-l-arabinofuranosidase, and ß-d-xylanase), α-amylase, and proteases (trypsin-like, chymotrypsin-like, and keratinase-type) in gut extracts from Nasutitermes corniger workers and soldiers. Additionally, the effects of pH (3.0-11.0) and temperature (30-100°C) on enzyme activities were evaluated. All enzymes investigated were detected in the gut extracts of worker and soldier termites. Endoglucanase and ß-xylanase were the main cellulase and hemicellulase, respectively. Zymography for proteases of worker extracts revealed polypeptides of 22, 30, and 43kDa that hydrolyzed casein, and assays using protease inhibitors showed that serine proteases were the main proteases in worker and soldier guts. The determined enzyme activities and their response to different pH and temperature values revealed that workers and soldiers contained a distinct digestive apparatus. The ability of these termites to efficiently digest the main components of lignocellulosic materials stimulates the purification of gut enzymes. Further investigation into their biotechnological potential as well as whether the enzymes detected are produced by the termites or by their symbionts is needed.

Toxic effects of Microgramma vacciniifolia rhizome lectin on Artemia salina, human cells, and the schistosomiasis vector Biomphalaria glabrata.

The present study evaluated the toxicity of Microgramma vacciniifolia rhizome lectin (MvRL) to Artemia salina, human tumour cell lines (larynx epidermoid carcinoma Hep-2, NCI-H292 lung mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and chronic myelocytic leukaemia K562), and normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), as well as to Biomphalaria glabrata embryos and adults. MvRL was toxic to A. salina (LC50=159.9 µg/mL), and exerted cytotoxic effects on NCI-H292 cells (IC50=25.23 µg/mL). The lectin (1-100 µg/mL) did not affect the viability of K562 and Hep-2 tumour cells, as well as of PBMCs. MvRL concentration of 1, 10, and 100 µg/mL promoted malformations (mainly exogastrulation) in 7.8%, 22.5%, and 27.7% of embryos, respectively, as well as delayed embryo development in 42.0%, 69.5%, and 54.7% of embryos, respectively. MvRL at a concentration of 100 µg/mL killed B. glabrata embryos (17.7%) and adults (25%). Further, MvRL damaged B. glabrata reproductive processes, which was evidenced by observations that snails exposed to the lectin (100 µg/mL) deposited fewer eggs than those in the control group, and approximately 40% of the deposited eggs exhibited malformations. Comparison of these results with that from A. salina assay indicates that MvRL is adulticidal at the concentration range which is toxic to environment. In conclusion, the cytotoxicity of MvRL on tumour cell and absence of toxicity to normal cell indicate its potential as chemotherapeutic drug. Also, the study revealed that the lectin is able to promote deleterious effects on B. glabrata embryos at environmentally safe concentrations.