Mechanisms of medicinal, pharmaceutical, and immunomodulatory action of probiotics bacteria and their secondary metabolites against disease management: an overview.

Probiotics or bacteriotherapy is today's hot issue for public entities (Food and Agriculture Organization, and World Health Organization) as well as health and food industries since Metchnikoff and his colleagues hypothesized the correlation between probiotic consumption and human's health. They contribute to the newest and highly efficient arena of promising biotherapeutics. These are usually attractive in biomedical applications such as gut-related diseases like irritable bowel disease, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, fungal infections, various allergies, parasitic and bacterial infections, viral diseases, and intestinal inflammation, and are also worth immunomodulation. The useful impact of probiotics is not limited to gut-related diseases alone. Still, these have proven benefits in various acute and chronic infectious diseases, like cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diseases, and high serum cholesterol. Recently, different researchers have paid special attention to investigating biomedical applications of probiotics, but consolidated data regarding bacteriotherapy with a detailed mechanistically applied approach is scarce and controversial. The present article reviews the bio-interface of probiotic strains, mainly (i) why the demand for probiotics?, (ii) the current status of probiotics, (iii) an alternative to antibiotics, (iv) the potential applications towards disease management, (v) probiotics and industrialization, and (vi) futuristic approach.

Pharmacological and immunomodulatory modes of action of medically important phytochemicals against arthritis: A molecular insight.

Arthritis is a common illness that affects joints and it may result in inflammation and pain. Even though arthritis usually affects older people, it can also affect children, adults, and both genders. Numerous arthritic mouse models have been developed but the CIA model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has received the most attention. With the use of steroids, DMARDs, and NSAIDs, therapy objectives such as reduced disease incidence and better pain management are achieved. Long-term usage of these therapeutic approaches may have negative side effects. Herbal medications are the source of several medicinal substances. Studies have explored the potential benefits of medicinal plants in treating RA. These benefits include up-regulating antioxidant potential, inhibiting cartilage degradation, down-regulating inflammatory cytokines such as NF-kB, IL-6, and TNF-α, and suppressing oxidative stress. In this review, we systematically discuss the role of traditional medicinal plants in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease treatment. The role of different medicinal plants such as Curcuma longa, Syzygium aromaticum, Zingiber officinale and Withania somnifera, against arthritis is discussed in this review.

Exploring the underlying correlation between microbiota, immune system, hormones, and inflammation with breast cancer and the role of probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics.

According to recent research, bacterial imbalance in the gut microbiota and breast tissue may be linked to breast cancer. It has been discovered that alterations in the makeup and function of different types of bacteria found in the breast and gut may contribute to growth and advancement of breast cancer in several ways. The main role of gut microbiota is to control the metabolism of steroid hormones, such as estrogen, which are important in raising the risk of breast cancer, especially in women going through menopause. On the other hand, because the microbiota can influence mucosal and systemic immune responses, they are linked to the mutual interactions between cancer cells and their local environment in the breast and the gut. In this regard, the current review thoroughly explains the mode of action of probiotics and microbiota to eradicate the malignancy. Furthermore, immunomodulation by microbiota and probiotics is described with pathways of their activity.

Evaluating the biological (antidiabetic) potential of TEM, FTIR, XRD, and UV-spectra observed berberis lyceum conjugated silver nanoparticles.

Diabetes is a life-threatening disease that affects different parts of the body including the liver, kidney, and pancreas. The core root of diabetes is mainly linked to oxidative stress produced by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Berberis lyceum Royle (BLR) is the source of natural products. It comprises numerous bioactive compounds having antioxidant activities. In the current investigation, silver nanoparticles from BLR root extract were synthesized, characterized, and assessed for antidiabetic potential. UV spectrophotometry, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), and x-ray diffraction (XRD) were applied for the characterization of NPs. It was evident from the morphological studies that the synthesized NPs were spherical and the average size was 11.02 nm. Results revealed that BLR-AgNPs showed higher radical scavenging activity as compared to BLR extract. Moreover, BLR-AgNPs displayed superior in vivo and in vitro antidiabetic activity in comparison to BLR extract. Glucose level (116.5 ± 5.1 mg/dL), liver function test (ALAT: 54.038 ± 6.2 IU/L; ASAT: 104.42 ± 13.9 IU/L; ALP: 192.6 ± 2.4 IU/L; bilirubin: 1.434 ± 0.14 mg/dL; total protein: 5.14 ± 0.24 mg/dL), renal function test (urea: 39.6 ± 0.63 mg/dL; uric acid: 21.4 ± 0.94 mg/dL; creatinine: 0.798 ± 0.03 mg/dL; albumin: 4.14 ± 0.2 mg/dL), lipid profile level (cholesterol: 101.62 ± 3 mg/dL; triglyceride: 110.42 ± 7 mg/dL; HDL-C: 29.7 ± 3 mg/dL; LDL-C: 47.056 ± 1 mg/dL; VLDL-C: 22.0 ± 1.3 mg/dL) and hematology (WBCs: 3.82 ± 0.24 103 /µL; RBCs: 4.78 ± 0.42 106 /µL; Hb: 12.6 ± 1.0 g/dL; Hematocrit: 39.4 ± 3.7%; MCV: 65.8 ± 3 fL; platelets: 312 ± 22.4; neutrophils: 34.8 ± 1.87; eosinophils: 3.08 ± 0.43; monocytes: 3.08 ± 0.28; lymphocytes: 75.6 ± 3.77) confirmed the significant antidiabetic potential of BLR-AgNPs. Histopathological examination authenticated that BLR-AgNPs caused a significant revival in the morphology of the liver, kidney, and pancreas. Hence, findings of the study suggested the BLR-AgNPs as a potent antidiabetic agent and could be an appropriate nanomedicine to prevent diabetes in future. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Berberis lyceum extract as a reducing, capping, and stabilization agent for the BLR-AgNPs synthesis Evaluation of α-amylase inhibition, antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibition potential Thorough characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and UV-VIS spectrophotometer, which is 1st of its kind In-vivo antidiabetic activity evaluation through multiple biomarkers.

Chemoprotective and immunomodulatory potential of Lactobacillus reuteri against cadmium chloride-induced breast cancer in mice.

INTRODUCTION: The current study aimed to investigate the role of probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri for the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Breast cancer was induced by using Cadmium Chloride (Cd) (2 mg/kg) in group II. Tamoxifen was administered to group III. Group IV was treated with Lactobacillus reuteri. Group V was treated with Cd for one month and divided into three subgroups including VA, VB, and VC which were treated with tamoxifen, Lactobacillus reuteri, and tamoxifen + Lactobacillus reuteri, respectively. RESULTS: Significantly higher levels of TNF-α (40.9 ± 4.2 pg/mL), IL-6 (28.0 ± 1.5 pg/mL), IL-10 (60.2 ± 2.0 pg/mL), IFN-γ (60.2 ± 2.0 pg/mL), ALAT (167.2 ± 6.2 U/l), ASAT (451.6 ± 13.9 U/l), and MDA (553.8 ± 19.6 U/l) was observed in Cd group. In comparison, significantly lower levels of TNF-α (18.0 ± 1.1 pg/mL), IL-6 (9.4 ± 0.4 pg/mL), IL-10 (20.8 ± 1.1 pg/mL), IFN-γ (20.8 ± 1.1 pg/mL), ALAT (85.2 ± 3.6 U/l), ASAT (185 ± 6.9 U/l), and MDA (246.0 ± 7.5 U/l) were observed in group Cd + Tam + LR. Liver histopathology of the Cd group showed hemorrhage and ductal aberrations. However, mild inflammation and healthier branched ducts were observed in treatment groups. Furthermore, the renal control group showed normal glomerular tufts, chronic inflammation from the Cd group, and relatively healthier glomerulus with mild inflammation in treatment groups. CONCLUSION: Hence, the preventive and anticancerous role of probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri is endorsed by the findings of the current study.

Toxicological effects of dimethlybenzeneanthracene in Balb C mice and pharmacological intervention by silk sericin-conjugated silver nanoparticles.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as 7, 12-dimethylbenzneanthracene (DMBA), due to long-term bioaccumulation cause serious physiological processes and behavioral dysfunctions such as cancer, ageing, and hypertension. Silk sericin (SS) is instrumental in cancer applications due to presence of flavonoids and carotenoids which are natural pigments, present in the layer of sericin that has antioxidant and antityrosinase activity. It reduces oxidative stress and suppresses cancer cytokines while interacting with reactive oxygen species (ROS) to stand against lipid peroxidation. Recent research was focused to calculate the pharmacological intervention of sericin-conjugated silver nanoparticles (S-AgNO3 NPs) against DMBA-induced toxicity. For this purpose, SS protein was extracted from silkworm cocoons by degumming process and the prepared S-AgNO3 NPs via a green synthesis. In female albino mice, a total of 50 mg/kg oral administration of DMBA was used for the induction of toxicity which required almost 8 to 10 weeks approximately. After 60 days of experimentation, mice were dissected, blood samples were collected for further hematological and biochemical analysis and were euthanized via cervical dislocation. There was a significant rise in the level of red blood cells, platelets, lymphocytes, and hemoglobin at the highest applied concentration of sericin and its nanoparticles. Similarly, a reasonable decline was observed in the level of white blood cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes as compared to the cancer-inducing group. The level of glutathione, lactate dehydrogenase, and alkaline phosphatase as well as immunoglobulins such as immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin M (IgM) were significantly reduced in all treatment groups as compared to the DMBA-induced group. Substantial effects were demonstrated in response to S-AgNO3 NPs II (T) at the highest concentrations (200 mg/kg, BW) as follows: glutathione (2.42 ± 0.26 µmol/L), lactate dehydrogenase (493.6 ± 5.78 U/L), alkaline phosphatase (158.4 ± 6.35 U/L), IgA (4.22 ± 0.19 g/L), IgG (70 ± 1.70 g/L), and IgM (4.76 ± 0.12). The histopathological study of the liver, kidneys, and brain revealed that the DMBA-induced group showed cytotoxic effects against all selected organs of mice that were recovered by treatment of selective compounds but highly effective recovery was seen in S-AgNO3 NPs II (T). These results concluded that silk S-AgNO3 NPs showed significant pharmacological potential against cancer-inducing toxicity.

Evaluation of biological potential of UV-spectrophotometric, SEM, FTIR, and EDS observed Punica granatum and Plectranthus rugosus extract-coated silver nanoparticles: A comparative study.

Recent developments in the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) using phytoconstituents have attracted the attention of the global scientific community. The present study was designed to synthesize silver NPs (AgNPs) using Punica granatum and Plectranthus rugosus plant extracts. The fabricated AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The shift in the color of the silver nitrate (AgNO3 ) solution after the addition of P. granatum and P. rugosus extracts indicated the synthesis of AgNPs. The effect of AgNO3 concentrations and pH on the synthesis of AgNPs was also evaluated. The findings of this study suggest that AgNO3 concentration of 1 mM, reaction time of 1 h, and pH of 7 at room temperature were the best suited conditions for the synthesis of AgNPs. According to the FTIR analysis, amidic and carbonyl compounds were primarily responsible for the encapsulation of AgNPs. SEM investigations have shown irregularly shaped geometry with sizes of 35 nm (P. granatum) and 33 nm (P. rugosus) with low agglomeration. The prepared AgNPs exhibited good potential for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, with values of 70% (P. granatum) and 68% (P. rugosus). Hence, we conclude that the leaves of P. granatum and P. rugosus are excellent material for designing of different plant-extracted-conjugated AgNPs for biomedical applications. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Preparation of the AgNPs using novel plants extracts. P. granatum and P. rugosus extract as reducing, capping, stabilizing, and optimizing agents. Thorough comparative characterization using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, SEM, and EDS which is a first of its kind. Comparative antioxidant activity.

UV-spectrophotometric Optimization of Temperature, pH, Concentration and Time for Eucalyptus Globulus Capped Silver Nanoparticles Synthesis, their Characterization and Evaluation of Biological Applications.

Morphology (size, shape) and structural variations (bonding pattern, crystallography, and atomic arrangements) have significant impacts on the efficacy of the metallic nanoparticles. Fabrication of these metal nanoparticles through green synthesis using plant extracts has increased attention due to their low cost, less hazardous byproducts, and multiple applications. In present study, Eucalyptus globulus extract was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Change of color from light brown to reddish brown and UV-visible spectral peak at 423 nm confirmed the formation of AgNPs. The shifting of FTIR spectra peaks indicated the potential role of the functional groups in extract as capping agents. The DLS evaluated the average size and stability of the nanoparticles while the surface morphology, size and the elemental composition of the AgNPs was established by the FESEM and EDX analysis. The SEM images revealed spherical nanoparticles of size ranging from 40-60 nm. Biogenic AgNPs showed better DPPH radical scavenging activity with IC50 (13.44 ± 0.3) as compared to leaves extract with IC50 (10.57 ± 0.2). The synthesized AgNPs showed higher zones of inhibition (ZOI) by well diffusion method against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Results of present study highlights the potential benefits of Eucalyptus globulus leaves extract-based AgNPs for various biomedical uses.

Spectrophotometrically, Spectroscopically, Microscopically and Thermogravimetrically Optimized TiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles and their Bactericidal, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Potential: A Novel Comparative Approach.

Current study was aimed to determine the antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic potential of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). Nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, particle size analyzer (PSA), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by standard agar dilution method. Antibacterial potential of nanoparticles was analyzed by standard disc diffusion method against bacterial strains including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumonia. Different concentrations of NPs (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 mg/mL) were incorporated to evaluate the antimicrobial activity. Antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of these NPs was analyzed by DPPH method and brine shrimp cytotoxicity assay, respectively. The MIC of TiO2NPs against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae was 0.04, 0.08 and 0.07 mg/mL respectively while the MIC of ZnONPs against the above strains was 0.01, 0.015 and 0.01 mg/mL. The maximum zone of inhibition was observed for K. pneumoniae i.e., 20mm and 25mm against TiO2 and ZnO NPs respectively, at 1.4 mg/mL concentration of NPs. The susceptibility of NPs against bacterial strains was evaluated in the following order: K. pneumoniae > P. aeruginosa > E. coli. The antioxidant activity of nanoparticles increased by increasing the concentration of NPs while cytotoxic analysis exhibited non-toxic effect of ZnO NPs while TiO2 had toxic effects on 1.2 and 1.4 mg/mL concentrations. Results revealed that ZnO NPs have more antibacterial and negligible cytotoxic potential in contrast to TiO2 NPs.

In Vitro Biofilm-Mediated Biodegradation of Pesticides and Dye-Contaminated Effluents Using Bacterial Biofilms.

Overuse of pesticides in agricultural soil and dye-polluted effluents severely contaminates the environment and is toxic to animals and humans making their removal from the environment essential. The present study aimed to assess the biodegradation of pesticides (cypermethrin (CYP) and imidacloprid (IMI)), and dyes (malachite green (MG) and Congo red (CR)) using biofilms of bacteria isolated from pesticide-contaminated soil and dye effluents. Biofilms of indigenous bacteria, i.e., Bacillus thuringiensis 2A (OP554568), Enterobacter hormaechei 4A (OP723332), Bacillus sp. 5A (OP586601), and Bacillus cereus 6B (OP586602) individually and in mixed culture were tested against CYP and IMI. Biofilms of indigenous bacteria i.e., Lysinibacillus sphaericus AF1 (OP589134), Bacillus sp. CF3 (OP589135) and Bacillus sp. DF4 (OP589136) individually and in mixed culture were tested for their ability to degrade dyes. The biofilm of a mixed culture of B. thuringiensis + Bacillus sp. (P7) showed 46.2% degradation of CYP compared to the biofilm of a mixed culture of B. thuringiensis + E. hormaechei + Bacillus sp. + B. cereus (P11), which showed significantly high degradation (70.0%) of IMI. Regarding dye biodegradation, a mixed culture biofilm of Bacillus sp. + Bacillus sp. (D6) showed 86.76% degradation of MG, which was significantly high compared to a mixed culture biofilm of L. sphaericus + Bacillus sp. (D4) that degraded only 30.78% of CR. UV-VIS spectroscopy revealed major peaks at 224 nm, 263 nm, 581 nm and 436 nm for CYP, IMI, MG and CR, respectively, which completely disappeared after treatment with bacterial biofilms. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed the appearance of new peaks in degraded metabolites and disappearance of a peak in the control spectrum after biofilm treatment. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis also confirmed the degradation of CYP, IMI, MG and CR into several metabolites compared to the control. The present study demonstrates the biodegradation potential of biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from pesticide-polluted soil and dye effluents against pesticides and dyes. This is the first report demonstrating biofilm-mediated bio-degradation of CYP, IMI, MG and CR utilizing soil and effluent bacterial flora from Multan and Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan.

Evaluating the Effect of pH, Temperature and Concentration on Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of Spectroscopically, Spectrophotometrically and Microscopically Characterized Mentha Spicata Capped Silver Nanoparticles.

The use of traditional plants has been tremendously increased due to their higher biological impact, minimal side effects, and comparatively low cost. Moreover, the emergence of antibacterial resistance is also shifting the scientific community to reconsider herbal remedies which provide relatively safer, cheap and biologically tolerable solutions. The present research was designed to fabricate the Mentha spicata conjugated silver nanoparticles (Me-AgNPs). Furthermore, the assessment of the bactericidal potential of Me-AgNPs against various bacterial strains was another motive behind this study. Fabricated NPs were characterized with the help of the UV-Visible spectrophotometric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Me-AgNPs showed a significant zone of inhibition (23 ± 0.2 mm) at 8 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus and a 4.0 ± 0.2 mm zone of growth inhibition at 2 mg/mL against Aeromonas veronii. The stability of Me-AgNPs was assessed at various pH (4, 7 and 11) and temperatures (25 °C, 4 °C, 37 °C, 75 °C). The significant zones of inhibition (11.3 ± 0.3 mm, 8.3 ± 0.3mm, 14.3 ± 0.3 mm, and 7.6 ± 0.2 mm) were observed at pH 11 against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. Growth inhibition zones (14.0 ± 0.5 mm and 13.0 ± 0.5 mm) were also determined against B. subtilis and S. aureus at 25 °C. DPPH bioassay was conducted to find the antioxidant properties of Me-AgNPs. The highest (38.66 ± 0.2%) free radical scavenging activity was shown by Me-AgNPs at 4 mg/mL. Present study results concluded that biogenic Me-AgNPs have bactericidal as well as anti-oxidative potential. Moreover, these green synthesized Me-AgNPs could maintain their potency and stability at a wide range of pH and temperature.

Therapeutic and immunomodulatory role of probiotics in breast cancer: A mechanistic review.

Breast cancer has become the most prevalent and noxious type of malignancy around the globe (Giaquinto et al., 2022). Multiple clinical strategies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy have been in practice to manage breast cancer. Besides the protective roles of conventional remedial approaches, and non-reversible and deteriorative impacts like healthy cell damage, organ failure, etc., the world scientific community is in a continuous struggle to find some alternative biocompatible and comparatively safe solutions. Among novel breast cancer management/treatment options, the role of probiotics has become immensely important. The current review encompasses the prevalence statistics of breast cancer across the globe concerning developed and undeveloped counties, intestinal microbiota linkage with breast cancer, and association of breast microbiome with breast carcinoma. Furthermore, this review also narrates the role of probiotics against breast cancer and their mode of action. In Vivo and In Vitro studies under breast cancer research regarding probiotics are mechanistically explained. The current review systematically explains the immunomodulatory role of probiotics to prevent breast cancer. Last, but not the least, current review concludes the use of probiotics in the treatment of breast cancer through various mechanisms and future recommendations for molecular basis studies.

Sonication and heat-mediated synthesis, characterization and larvicidal activity of sericin-based silver nanoparticles against dengue vector (Aedes aegypti).

Fabrication, characterization and evaluation of the larvicidal potential of novel silk protein (sericin)-based silver nanoparticles (Se-AgNPs) were the prime motives of the designed study. Furthermore, investigation of the sericin as natural reducing or stabilizing agent was another objective behind this study. Se-AgNPs were synthesized using sonication and heat. Fabricated Se-AgNPs were characterized using particle size analyzer, UV spectrophotometry, FTIR and SEM which confirmed the fabrication of the Se-AgNPs. Size of sonication-mediated Se-AgNPs was smaller (7.49 nm) than heat-assisted Se-AgNPs (53.6 nm). Being smallest in size, sonication-assisted Se-AgNPs revealed the significantly highest (F4,10 = 39.20, p = .00) larvicidal activity against fourth instar lab and field larvae (F4,10 = 1864, p = .00) of dengue vector (Aedes aegypti) followed by heat-assisted Se-AgNPs and positive control (temephos). Non-significant larvicidal activity was showed by silver (without sericin) which made the temperature stability of silver, debatable. Furthermore, findings of biochemical assays (glutathione-S transferase, esterase, and acetylcholinesterase) showed the levels of resistance in field strain larvae. Aforementioned findings of the study suggests the sonication as the best method for synthesis of Se-AgNPs while the larvicidal activity is inversely proportional to the size of Se-AgNPs, i.e., smallest the size, highest the larvicidal activity. Conclusively, status of the sericin as a natural reducing/stabilizing agent has been endorsed by the findings of this study. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Incorporation of biocompatible and inexpensive sericin as a capping/reducing agent for synthesis of Se-AgNPs. A novel sonication method was used for the fabrication of Se-AgNPs which were thoroughly characterized by particle size analyzer, UV-visible spectrophotometry, SEM and FTIR. Analysis of enzymatic (GSTs, ESTs) levels in field and lab strains of Aedes aegypti larvae for evaluation of insecticides resistance.

Bactericidal potential of different size sericin-capped silver nanoparticles synthesized by heat, light, and sonication.

Present study was aimed to assess the bactericidal potential of sericin-capped silver nanoparticles (Se-AgNPs) synthesized by heat, light, and sonication. Se-AgNPs were characterized by size analyzer, UV spectrophotometry, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Average size of Se-AgNPs synthesized by heat, light and sonication was 53.60, 78.12, and 7.49 nm, respectively. All (10) bacterial strains were exposed to Se-AgNPs prepared from different methods to compare their antibacterial potentials. Largest zone of inhibition (13 ± 1.15 mm) was observed for sonication-based nanoparticles (NPs) against Klebseilla pneumoniae while the smallest zone of light assisted NPs against Serratia rubidaea (5 ± 1 mm). Bacterial strains were also exposed to different concentrations (0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.6%) of Se-AgNPs which showed largest zone (12 ± 1 mm) of inhibition for 0.4% of Se-AgNPs against Protius mirabilis and smallest zone (5 ± 1.154 mm) for 0.3% of Se-AgNPs against Escherichia coli. Furthermore, effect of different temperatures (5°C, 37°C, and 60°C) and pH (3, 7, and 12) on the efficacy and stability of Se-AgNPs was also evaluated against different bacterial strains. Sonication mediated NPs showed highest bactericidal results against K. pneumoniae (F3,8 = 6.154; p = 0.018) with smallest size NPs (7.49 nm) while lowest bactericidal results against S. rubidaea (5 ± 1 mm) were shown with largest size (78.12 nm) NPs prepared by natural light. These variations of bactericidal activities of NPs with difference size endorse that the Se-AgNPs with smallest size have highest antibacterial activity than larger size NPs. Moreover, Se-AgNPs maintain their bactericidal potency at wide range of temperature and pH, hence seemed stable.

Analysis of the antimicrobial potential of sericin-coated silver nanoparticles against human pathogens.

The antibacterial activity of synthetic antimicrobial agents is well known, but most of them have several side effects and are effective against selective microbes. Recently, major concern for the microbiologists is to investigate for some stable, non-toxic, cheap, and eco-friendly antimicrobial agents with a wide range of bactericidal potential. A cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternate has been proposed in the form of green synthesized nanoparticles. The Present study was designed to fabricate sericin-coated silver nanoparticles (S-AgNPs) using sericin as stabilizer and reductant of silver ions and their antibacterial potential was evaluated at various concentrations and temperatures (8, 40, and 50°C). Antimicrobial activities were assessed by the agar well diffusion method. Antibacterial activity of S-AgNPs was measured at different concentrations (1-6 mg/ml) whereas; antifungal activity was tested at 5-20 mg/ml of S-AgNPs. Nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. These nanoparticles significantly subdued the growth of Clostridium difficile (18.7 ± 0.9 mm), Proteus mirabilis (12.3 ± 0.3 mm) and Bacillus licheniformis (10.7 ± 0.9 mm) and Aspergillus flavus (18.7 ± 2.0 mm), Mucor mycetes (13 .0 ± 1.5 mm), Candida albicans (15.3 ± 0.3 mm) and Aspergillus niger (10.0 ± 0.6 mm). S-AgNPs were stable at all temperatures and the maximum growth inhibition was found at 8°C for all pathogenic strains. We concluded that the S-AgNPs could be a potential candidate to inhibit the growth of bacterial and fungal pathogens at a wide range of environmental conditions like temperature. In various biomedical applications including antimicrobial and wound dressings, S-AgNPs can be used in the future to treat various bacterial and fungal infections.

Aging and its treatment with vitamin C: a comprehensive mechanistic review.

Aging and age-related disorders have become one of the prominent issue of world. Oxidative stress due to overproduction of reactive oxygen species is the most significant cause of aging. The aim of literature compilation was to elucidate the therapeutic effect of vitamin C against oxidative stress. Various mediators with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties might be probable competitors of vitamin C for the improvement of innovative anti-aging treatments. More attention has been paid to vitamin C due to its anti-oxidant property and potentially beneficial biological activities for inhibiting aging.Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant agent and free radical scavenger that can protect the cell from oxidative stress, disorganization of chromatin, telomere attrition, and prolong the lifetime. This review emphasizes mechanism of aging and various biomarkers that are directly related to aging and also focuses on the therapeutic aspect of vitamin C against oxidative stress and age-related disorders.

Current Status of Pyrethroids Resistance in Aedes aegypti (Culicidae: Diptera) in Lahore District, Pakistan: A Novel Mechanistic Insight.

Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) is a major vector responsible for dengue transmission. Insecticides are being used as the most effective tool to control vector populations in Lahore, Pakistan. Control of Ae. aegypti is threatened by the development of resistance against insecticides. The current status of insecticide resistance was evaluated against pyrethroids (deltamethrin, cypermethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin) in different populations of Lahore (Model Town, Mishri Shah, Sadar Cantt, Walton, and Valencia). The susceptibility of the larval and adult populations was tested following the standard WHO guidelines. Moderate to high levels of resistance were found against pyrethroids in the larval (RR50: 3.6-27.2 and RR90: 5-90) and adult populations (percentage mortality < 98%). Biochemical assays revealed a statistically significant increase in the enzyme level in all field populations compared to the laboratory strain. The value of esterase was one-fold higher, monooxygenase was 3.9- to 4.7-fold higher, and glutathione S-transferases was 1.9- to 2.6-fold higher in field populations compared to the laboratory strain. These results depict the presence of resistance against deltamethrin, cypermethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin in field populations of Lahore mediated by metabolic enzymes i.e. esterases, monooxygenases, and glutathione S-transferase.

Silk derived formulations for accelerated wound healing in diabetic mice.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to prepare effective silk derived formulations in combination with plant extract (Aloe vera gel) to speed up the wound healing process in diabetic mice. METHODS: Diabetes was induced in albino mice by using alloxan monohydrate. After successful induction of diabetes in mice, excision wounds were created via biopsy puncture (6 mm). Wound healing effect of silk sericin (5%) and silk fibroin (5%) individually and in combination with 5% Aloe vera gel was evaluated by determining the percent wound contraction, healing time and histological analysis. RESULTS: The results indicated that the best biocompatible silk combination was of 5% silk fibroin and 5% Aloe vera gel in which wounds were healed in 13 days with wound contraction: 98.33 ± 0.80%. In contrast, the wound of the control group (polyfax) healed in 19 day shaving 98.5 ± 0.67% contraction. Histological analysis revealed that the wounds which were treated with silk formulations exhibited an increased growth of blood vessels, collagen fibers, and much reduced inflammation. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that a combination of Bombyx mori silk and Aloe vera gel is a natural biomaterial that can be utilized in wound dressings and to prepare more innovative silk based formulations for speedy recovery of chronic wounds.

Synthesis of sericin-conjugated silver nanoparticles and their potential antimicrobial activity.

Nanoparticles (NPs) are being recognized as antibacterial agents due to their rapidly increasing multidrug resistance in bacterial pathogens. Hence, there is an unmet need to identify the natural antibacterial agent. The present study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of sericin-conjugated silver NPs synthesized by using sericin as a reducing and capping agent. Synthesized NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscope, nanolaser particle size analyzer (BT-90), Fourier-transform infrared analysis, and energy-dispersive X-ray. The biogenic NPs significantly inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli (12-15 mm zone of inhibition), Staphylococcus aureus (14.6-15.4 mm zone of inhibition), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.5-18 mm zone of inhibition). The stability of naturally synthesized NPs was examined at various temperatures (i.e., 4°C, 37°C, and 55°C) and pH (i.e., 3, 7, and 11). Temperature variability did not significantly affect the efficacy of NPs. However, NPs performed better at higher pH levels. This study suggested that the sericin-based silver NPs are not only effective against bacteria, but they also maintain the stability at different ranges of temperature and pH. We concluded that the sericin-conjugated silver NPs possess the remarkable antibacterial potential, which suggests their large-scale use as a cheap and stable antimicrobial agent in the future.

DNA barcoding of spiders from agricultural fields.

In the present study, DNA barcoding was used to assess the percentage accuracy of morphological base identification of spiders from the agriculture fields of district Layyah, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 872 spiders were captured from June to August of 2017. All the collected spiders were brought to molecular laboratory at GC University Lahore, preserved in 95% ethanol and stored at -20 °C until the DNA extraction. Spiders were evaluated morphologically on the basis of different identification Keys and Catalogs. Morphological identification revealed the presence of 12 families, 29 genra and 49 species. To evaluate the authenticity of morphological identification, tissue samples of 96 specimens were sent to Canadian Center for Biodiversity and Genomics, University of Guelph, Canada. A 658-base pair sequence of COI (Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I) of 90 specimens was retrieved successfully, which confirmed the presence of 11 families, 25 genra and 47 species. On the basis of molecular results, all the misidentified specimens were then allotted the correct taxon. Overall accuracy of morphological based identification was 88%. It is concluded from the present study that morphological investigations to identify a spider, are satisfactory but to enhance the accuracy, pace and credibility of results, molecular technique like DNA barcoding is considerable. Furthermore, to magnify authenticity of evaluation of spiders, integrated barcoding- combination of molecular methods and conventional taxonomy- is compulsory.