Occult hepatitis B virus infection and current perspectives on global WHO 2030 eradication.

The current World Health Organization (WHO) Hepatitis Elimination Strategy suffers from lack of a target for diagnosing or expunging occult HBV infection. A sizable segment of the global population has an undetected HBV infection, particularly the high-risk populations and those residing in countries like India with intermediate endemicity. There is growing proof that people with hidden HBV infection can infect others, and that these infections are linked to serious chronic hepatic complications, especially hepatocellular carcinoma. Given the current diagnostic infrastructure in low-resource settings, the WHO 2030 objective of obliterating hepatitis B appears to be undeniably challenging to accomplish. Given the molecular basis of occult HBV infection strongly linked to intrahepatic persistence, patients may inexplicably harbour HBV genomes for a prolonged duration without displaying any pronounced clinical or biochemical signs of liver disease, and present histological signs of moderate degree necro-inflammation, diffuse fibrosis, and hence the international strategy to eradicate viral hepatitis warrants inclusion of occult HBV infection.

Investigating the ecological implications of nanomaterials: Unveiling plants' notable responses to nano-pollution.

The rapid advancement of nanotechnology has led to unprecedented innovations; however, it is crucial to analyze its environmental impacts carefully. This review thoroughly examines the complex relationship between plants and nanomaterials, highlighting their significant impact on ecological sustainability and ecosystem well-being. This study investigated the response of plants to nano-pollution stress, revealing the complex regulation of defense-related genes and proteins, and highlighting the sophisticated defense mechanisms in nature. Phytohormones play a crucial role in the complex molecular communication network that regulates plant responses to exposure to nanomaterials. The interaction between plants and nano-pollution influences plants' complex defense strategies. This reveals the interconnectedness of systems of nature. Nevertheless, these findings have implications beyond the plant domain. The incorporation of hyperaccumulator plants into pollution mitigation strategies has the potential to create more environmentally sustainable urban landscapes and improve overall environmental resilience. By utilizing these exceptional plants, we can create a future in which cities serve as centers of both innovation and ecological balance. Further investigation is necessary to explore the long-term presence of nanoparticles in the environment, their ability to induce genetic changes in plants over multiple generations, and their overall impact on ecosystems. In conclusion, this review summarizes significant scientific discoveries with broad implications beyond the confines of laboratories. This highlights the importance of understanding the interactions between plants and nanomaterials within the wider scope of environmental health. By considering these insights, we initiated a path towards the responsible utilization of nanomaterials, environmentally friendly management of pollution, and interdisciplinary exploration. We have the responsibility to balance scientific advancement and environmental preservation to create a sustainable future that combines nature's wisdom with human innovation.

Computational approaches for modeling and structural design of biological systems: A comprehensive review.

The convergence of biology and computational science has ushered in a revolutionary era, revolutionizing our understanding of biological systems and providing novel solutions to global problems. The field of genetic engineering has facilitated the manipulation of genetic codes, thus providing opportunities for the advancement of innovative disease therapies and environmental enhancements. The emergence of bio-molecular simulation represents a significant advancement in this particular field, as it offers the ability to gain microscopic insights into molecular-level biological processes over extended periods. Biomolecular simulation plays a crucial role in advancing our comprehension of organismal mechanisms by establishing connections between molecular structures, interactions, and biological functions. The field of computational biology has demonstrated its significance in deciphering intricate biological enigmas through the utilization of mathematical models and algorithms. The process of decoding the human genome has resulted in the advancement of therapies for a wide range of genetic disorders, while the simulation of biological systems contributes to the identification of novel pharmaceutical compounds. The potential of biomolecular simulation and computational biology is vast and limitless. As the exploration of the underlying principles that govern living organisms progresses, the potential impact of this understanding on cancer treatment, environmental restoration, and other domains is anticipated to be transformative. This review examines the notable advancements achieved in the field of computational biology, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the comprehension and enhancement of biological systems.

Sustainable preparation of luminescent carbon dots from syringe waste and hyaluronic acid for cellular imaging and antimicrobial applications.

Addressing the global challenge of persistent waste through an eco-conscious strategy to transform it into valuable and versatile materials holds great significance in today's swiftly evolving world. By adopting a sustainable approach, we can repurpose waste syringes composed of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) into fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) using a simple hydrothermal process. This research harnessed hyaluronic acid to carbonize and modify discarded plastic syringes, resulting in the creation of luminescent syringe carbon dots (SCDs). Rigorous analysis employing diverse techniques delved into their optical attributes, size distribution, and surface characteristics. Extensive biocompatibility assessments using established assay methods confirmed the safety of the derived SCDs, unveiling their potential antibacterial and antifungal traits. Additionally, a confocal microscope was employed to evaluate the cellular imaging capabilities of SCDs on HeLa cells. Notably, at bactericidal concentrations, SCDs exhibited mild cytotoxicity towards mammalian cells, showcasing cell viability surpassing 91.07% at 1 mg/mL. This pioneering exploration paves the way for potential applications of SCD-based nano-bactericides across various biomedical domains. The initial outcomes established herein mark a significant stride towards the creation of cost-effective and ecologically sound fluorescent probes for biomedical imaging, aimed at combating microbial infections. By ingeniously reutilizing polyethylene terephthalate (PET), this investigation offers a sustainable remedy to address the ecological predicaments linked with plastic waste. In doing so, it charts a course towards contributing to the development of affordable, eco-friendly solutions, heralding a promising prospect for a cleaner, healthier environment.

Multitargeted pharmacokinetics, molecular docking and network pharmacology-based identification of effective phytocompounds from Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr for inflammation and cancer treatment.

According to worldwide health data, cancer, and inflammatory illnesses are on the rise and are among the most common causes of death. Across the world, these types of health problems are now considered top priorities for government health organizations. Hence, this study aimed to investigate medicinal plants' potential for treating cancer and inflammatory disorders. This network pharmacology analysis aims to learn more about the potential targets and mechanisms of action for the bioactive ingredients in Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr L. The compound-target network and protein-protein interaction analysis were built using the STRING database. Using Network Analyst, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes, pathway enrichment was performed on the hub genes. 1-hexadecanol was shown to inhibit drug-metabolizing enzymes in a pharmacokinetic investigation. Those samples of 1-hexadecanol were found to be 1-hexadecanol (BBB 0.783), GI High, Pgp Substrate Yes, CYP2C19 Inhibitor Yes, CYP2D6 Yes, and HI -89.803. The intermolecular binding energies for 1-hexadecanol (4-DRI, -8.2 kcal/mol) are evaluated. These results from a study on S. androgynus used molecular docking and network pharmacology to gain insight into the prime target genes and potential mechanisms identified for AKT1, mTOR, AR, PPID, FKBP5, and NR3C1. The PI3K-Akt signalling pathway has become an important regulatory node in various pathological processes requiring coordinated actions. Stability and favourable conformations have been resolved by considering nonbonding interactions such as electrostatic and hydrogen bonds in MD simulations of the perfect molecules using the Desmond package. Thus, using an appropriate platform of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments, this study provides for the first time a clearer knowledge of the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory molecular bioactivities of S. androgynus. Further in vitro and in vivo confirmations are strongly needed to determine the efficacy and therapeutic effects of 1-hexadecanol in the biological process.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Bio surfactants from lactic acid bacteria: an in-depth analysis of therapeutic properties and food formulation.

Healthy humans and animals commonly harbor lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on their mucosal surfaces, which are often associated with food fermentation. These microorganisms can produce amphiphilic compounds, known as microbial surface-active agents, that exhibit remarkable emulsifying activity. However, the exact functions of these microbial surfactants within the producer cells remain unclear. Consequently, there is a growing urgency to develop biosurfactant production from nonpathogenic microbes, particularly those derived from LAB. This approach aims to harness the benefits of biosurfactants while ensuring their safety and applicability. This review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of native and genetically modified LAB biosurfactants, shedding light on microbial interactions, cell signaling, pathogenicity, and biofilm development. It aims to provide valuable insights into the applications of these active substances in therapeutic use and food formulation as well as their potential biological and other benefits. By synthesizing the latest knowledge and advancements, this review contributes to the understanding and utilization of LAB biosurfactants in the food and nutritional areas.

Association of nanoparticles and Nrf2 with various oxidative stress-mediated diseases.

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that regulates the cellular antioxidant defense system at the posttranscriptional level. During oxidative stress, Nrf2 is released from its negative regulator Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and binds to antioxidant response element (ARE) to transcribe antioxidative metabolizing/detoxifying genes. Various transcription factors like aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) and epigenetic modification including DNA methylation and histone methylation might also regulate the expression of Nrf2. Despite its protective role, Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling is considered as a pharmacological target due to its involvement in various pathophysiological conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, hepatotoxicity and kidney disorders. Recently, nanomaterials have received a lot of attention due to their unique physiochemical properties and are also used in various biological applications, for example, biosensors, drug delivery systems, cancer therapy, etc. In this review, we will be discussing the functions of nanoparticles and Nrf2 as a combined therapy or sensitizing agent and their significance in various diseases such as diabetes, cancers and oxidative stress-mediated diseases.

Green Synthesis of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles by Using Abrus precatorius Bark Extract and Their Photocatalytic, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxicity Activities.

The current research is concerned with the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) from Abrus precatorius L. bark extract via the green chemistry method. The synthesized MgO NPs was confirmed by using several characterization methods like XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and UV-visible analysis. The synthesized MgO NPs displayed a small particle size along with a specific surface area. Abrus precatorius bark synthesized MgO NPs with a higher ratio of dye degradation, and antioxidant activity showed a higher percentage of free radical scavenging in synthesized MgO NPs. Zebrafish embryos were used as a model organism to assess the toxicity of the obtained MgO nanoparticles, and the results concluded that the MgO NPs were nontoxic. In addition, the anticancer properties of MgO nanoparticles were analyzed by using a human melanoma cancer cell line (A375) via MTT, XTT, NRU, and LDH assessment. MgO NPs treated a human melanoma cancer cell line and resulted in apoptosis and necrosis based on the concentration, which was confirmed through a genotoxicity assay. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms in necrosis and apoptosis were conferred to depict the association of magnesium oxide nanoparticles with the human melanoma cancer cell line. The current study on MgO NPs showed a broad-scope understanding of the use of these nanoparticles as a medicinal drug for melanoma cancer via its physiological mechanism and also a novel route to obtain MgO NPs by using the green chemistry method.

Biogenic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Pantoea stewartii and Priestia aryabhattai and Their Antimicrobial, Larvicidal, Histopathological, and Biotoxicity Potential.

In recent years, green nanotechnology has gained considerable importance for the synthesis of nanoparticles due to its economic viability and biosafety. In the current study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized using two bacterial isolates, H2 and H3, which were isolated from soil samples collected from the Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, and identified at the species level as Pantoeastewartii (H2) and Priestiaaryabhattai (H3) by sequencing their 16s rRNA genes. Intracellularly synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and particle size analysis. AFM studies show that both of the bacterial synthesized Ag NPs were circular-shaped and disaggregated, with an average size distribution of 4 nm for Pantoeastewartii and 3.6 nm for Priestiaaryabhattai. Furthermore, their larvicidal activity, antimicrobial, histopathological, and biotoxicity effects were determined. The synthesized Ag NPs exhibited potent larvicidal activity against fourth instars of Ae.aegypti, An.stephensi, and Cx.quinquefasciatus exposed to a 50 µg/mL concentration for 24 h based on their LC50 and LC90 values. Histopathological studies of the affected mosquito larvae clearly show damage to the epithelial cells, food bolus, basement membrane, muscles, and midgut parts. The maximum antimicrobial activity of Priestiaaryabhattai-synthesized Ag NPs was observed for Streptomyces varsoviensis MTCC-1537, and that of Pantoea stewartii-synthesized Ag NPs was against Escherichia coli MTCC-43. The toxicity test on non-target organisms such as Artemia nauplii and zebrafish embryos indicates no visible abnormalities or mortality after their exposure for 48h. It is concluded that silver nanoparticles can easily be synthesized using Pantoea stewartii (H2) and Priestia aryabhattai (H3) as capping and reducing agents. Silver nanoparticles showed potent larvicidal activities and could potentially be used in integrated vector control programs because they are safe for other inhabitants of the same aquatic environment as mosquito larvae.

Host cell responses against the pseudomonal biofilm: A continued tale of host-pathogen interactions.

In biofilm formation, pathogens within the bacterial community coordinate a cell-cell communication system called quorum sensing (QS). This is achieved through various signalling pathways that regulate bacterial virulence and host immune response. Here, we reviewed the host responses, key clinical implications, and novel therapeutic approaches against the biofilms of P. aeruginosa. Given the high degree of intrinsic antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation by the pathogen, the ensuing treatment complications could result in high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Notwithstanding the availability of intervention strategies, there remains a paucity of effective therapeutic options to control biofilmogenesis. This review discusses the basic understanding of QS-associated virulence factors and several key therapeutic interventions to foil the biofilm menace of P. aeruginosa.

Anti-diabetic efficacy and selective inhibition of methyl glyoxal, intervention with biogenic Zinc oxide nanoparticle.

Non-enzymatic glycation of biomolecules results in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are responsible for secondary complications in diabetes. Inhibiting methyl glyoxal (MGO) induced advanced glycation end product (AGE) formation is the only way to alleviate diabetic complications. This study aimed to look into the abilities of herbal extract Kigelia africana and K. africana synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) to inhibit the emergence of MG-derived AGEs. The study intended to determine antioxidant and AGE inhibition of the plant extract and ZnONPs. ZnONPs were tested for the efficiency of anti-diabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wister rats. We discovered that the MGO-trapping effects on the prevention of AGE production were mediated by the downregulation of the amplification of MGO-trapping impacts on the hypoglycemic and antihyperlipidemic mechanisms of ZnONPs. According to histological findings, the treatment with ZnONPs also successfully lowers inflammation in the hepatic and renal tissues. Overall, future mechanistic research could establish ZnONPs potential anti-diabetic properties.

Biosynthesised Silver Nanoparticles Loading onto Biphasic Calcium Phosphate for Antibacterial and Bone Tissue Engineering Applications.

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) serves as one of the substitutes for bone as it consists of an intimate mixture of beta-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HAP) in different ratios. BCP, because of its inbuilt properties such as osteoconductivity, biocompatibility, and biostability in several clinical models serves as a bone substituent for orthopedic applications. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) combined with BCP composites for the orthopedic sector of bone tissue regeneration and growth. In this regard, we first synthesized Ag-BCP microclusters by the double-emulsion method and then characterized the composite for various physicochemical properties, including the crystallinity and crystal structure, bonding and functionality, porosity, morphology, surface charges, topography, and thermal stability. In addition, the antibacterial activity of Ag-BCP was tested against gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Escherichia coli. Finally, the cytocompatibility of Ag-BCP was confirmed against the fibroblast cells in vitro.

Emerging Trends of Nanotechnology and Genetic Engineering in Cyanobacteria to Optimize Production for Future Applications.

Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize various fields of research and development. Multiple nanoparticles employed in a nanotechnology process are the magic elixir that provides unique features that are not present in the component's natural form. In the framework of contemporary research, it is inappropriate to synthesize microparticles employing procedures that include noxious elements. For this reason, scientists are investigating safer ways to produce genetically improved Cyanobacteria, which has many novel features and acts as a potential candidate for nanoparticle synthesis. In recent decades, cyanobacteria have garnered significant interest due to their prospective nanotechnological uses. This review will outline the applications of genetically engineered cyanobacteria in the field of nanotechnology and discuss its challenges and future potential. The evolution of cyanobacterial strains by genetic engineering is subsequently outlined. Furthermore, the recombination approaches that may be used to increase the industrial potential of cyanobacteria are discussed. This review provides an overview of the research undertaken to increase the commercial avenues of cyanobacteria and attempts to explain prospective topics for future research.

Biosynthesis of ZnONP Using Chamaecostus cuspidatus and Their Evolution of Anticancer Property in MCF-7 and A549 Cell Lines.

The ZnO nanoparticle synthesis using the leaf part of Chamaecostus cuspidatus was characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, IR, XRD, DLS, FESEM, EDX, TEM, AFM and XPS. The MTT assay was used to examine the cytotoxicity activity against lung epithelial and breast cell lines, and the IC50 value was determined. The presence of ZnO nanoparticles, which range in size from 200 to 800 nm, was confirmed by the absorption peak at 350 nm. The median particle size was 145.1 nm, and the ζ -the potential was -19.45 mV, showing that ZnONP is stable. Zinc, carbon, and oxygen contribute to the elemental composition of ZnONP, as determined by EDX analysis. MTT assay was used to investigate in vitro cytotoxicity in MCF-7 and A549 cell lines. The cytotoxicity activity IC50 value was determined to be 30 µg/mL for the A549 cell line and 37 µg/mL for the MCF-7 cell line.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles Using Psidium guajava Leaves Extracts and Their Photocatalytic and Biological Activities.

The advanced technology for synthesizing nanoparticles utilizes natural resources in an environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, green synthesis is preferred to chemical and physical synthesis because it takes less time and effort. The green synthesis of cobalt oxide nanoparticles has recently risen due to its physico-chemical properties. In this study, many functional groups present in Psidium guajava leaf extracts are used to stabilize the synthesis of cobalt oxide nanoparticles. The biosynthesized cobalt oxide nanoparticles were investigated using UV-visible spectroscopic analysis. Additionally, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of carboxylic acids, hydroxyl groups, aromatic amines, alcohols and phenolic groups. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed various peaks ranging from 32.35 to 67.35°, and the highest intensity showed at 36.69°. The particle size ranged from 26 to 40 nm and confirmed the average particle size is 30.9 nm. The green synthesized P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles contain cobalt as the major abundant element, with 42.26 wt% and 18.75 at% confirmed by the EDAX techniques. SEM images of green synthesized P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles showed agglomerated and non-uniform spherical particles. The anti-bacterial activity of green synthesized P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles was evaluated against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli with a 7 to 18 mm inhibitory zone. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated using green synthesized P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles and observed 79% of dye degradation. The MTT assay of P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles showed an excellent cytotoxic effect against MCF 7 and HCT 116 cells compared to normal cells. The percentage of cell viability of P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles was observed as 90, 83, 77, 68, 61, 58 and 52% for MCF-7 cells and 82, 70, 63, 51, 43, 40, and 37% for HCT 116 cells at the concentration of 1.53, 3.06, 6.12, 12.24, 24.48, 50, and 100 µg/mL compared to control cells. These results confirmed that green synthesized P. guajava cobalt oxide nanoparticles have a potential photocatalytic and anti-bacterial activity and also reduced cell viability against MCF-7 breast cancer and HCT 116 colorectal cancer cells.

Antibacterial activity of seed aqueous extract of Citrus limon (L.) mediated synthesis ZnO NPs: An impact on Zebrafish (Danio rerio) caudal fin development.

Among the different metal oxide nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles have gained significant importance due to their antibacterial properties against clinically pathogenic bacteria during the organal development. In the present study, biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using seed extract of Citrus limon by a simple, cost-effective, and green chemistry approach. The synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Dynamic Light Scattering, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Next, the antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs was tested against clinically pathogenic bacteria, i.e., Pseudomonas fluorescens, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Bacillus subtilis. Followed by, ZnO NPs were evaluated for the development of caudal fin in Zebrafish. The UV-Vis spectram result showed a band at 380 nm and FTIR results confirmed the ZnO NPs. The average crystallite size of the ZnO NPs was 52.65 ± 0.5 nm by the Debye Scherrer equation and SEM showed spherical-shaped particles. A zone of inhibition around ZnO NPs applied to P. fluorescens indicates sensitive to ZnO NPs followed by B. subtilis. Among the four different bacterial pathogens, E. aerogenes was the most susceptible compared to the other three pathogens. The calculated sub-lethal concentration of ZnO NPs at 96 h was 153.8 mg/L with a 95% confidence limit ranging from 70.62 to 214.18 mg/L, which was used with partially amputated zebrafish caudal fin growth. A significant (p < 0.5) development (95%) in the amputated caudal fin was detected at 12 days post-amputation. Low concentrated ZnO NPs can reduce developmental malformation. Collectively, suggested results strongly proved that lemon seed-mediated synthesized ZnO NPs had a good pathogenic barrier for bacterial infection during the external organal development for the first time.

Biogenic Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Evaluation of Pristine and Graphene-Loaded Zn50Mg50O Nanocomposites for Organic Dyes Removal.

Algal biomass synthesised nanocomposites have a higher surface area and reusability advantages. This study aimed to synthesise and characterise ZnMgO and silica-supported graphene with ZnMgO (G-ZnMgO) nanocomposites from Kappaphycusalvarezii and evaluate their potential in the application of photocatalysis to remove Rhodamine-B (RhB) and methylene blue (MB) dyes from their aqueous medium by maximising the percentage removal using response surface methodology (RSM) modelling. Nanocomposites were synthesised and characterised by biogenic and instrumental (Powder X-ray diffraction (P-XRD), electron microscopic analysis (SEM and TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX). and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS)) methods, respectively; modelling predicted the optimal conditions to be photocatalyst dosage and contact time of 1 g/L and 90 min, respectively, to obtain maximum MB dye removal of 80% using G-ZnMgO. The results showed the best fit between experimental and RSM predicted values. Thus, the obtained results conclude that the algal biomass synthesised nanocomposites were found to be one of the potential photocatalysts for the removal of RhB and MB dyes from their aqueous solution.