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International Journal of Biological... Jun 2024Herein, 5-fluorouracil and shikonin (extracted from Fusarium tricinctum) were loaded in chitosan/pectin nanoparticle (CS/PEC-NPs), prepared by blending (B-CS/PEC-NPs)...
Herein, 5-fluorouracil and shikonin (extracted from Fusarium tricinctum) were loaded in chitosan/pectin nanoparticle (CS/PEC-NPs), prepared by blending (B-CS/PEC-NPs) and coating (C-CS/PEC-NPs) methods. The nanoparticles characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Differential Light Scattering (DLS). Then, some properties of the nanoparticles such as drug release rate and the nanoparticles cytotoxicity were studied. The FTIR, XRD, EDX, SEM and DLS results showed that the nanoparticles synthesized properly with an almost spherical morphology, an average size of 82-93 nm for B-CS/PEC-NPs, an average diameter of below 100 nm (mostly 66-89 nm) for C-CS/PEC-NPs, and hydrodynamic diameter of 310-817 nm. The drug release results indicated the lower release rate of drugs for B-CS/PEC-NPs relative to C-CS/PEC-NPs at different pHs, high release rate of drugs for the nanoparticles in the simulated large intestinal fluids containing pectinase, and Korsmeyer-Peppas model for release of the drugs. The results showed more cytotoxicity of B-CS/PEC-NPs containing drugs, especially B-CS/PEC-NPs containing both drugs (B-CS/PEC/5-FU/SHK-NPs) after treating with pectinase (IC of 18.6 μg/mL). In conclusion, despite the limitation of C-CS/PEC-NPs for simultaneous loading of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, B-CS/PEC-NPs showed suitable potency for loading and targeted delivery of the drugs.
Topics: Fluorouracil; Chitosan; Pectins; Naphthoquinones; Nanoparticles; Drug Liberation; Drug Carriers; Humans; Colonic Neoplasms; Drug Delivery Systems; Cell Line, Tumor; Particle Size
PubMed: 38761911
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132413 -
Current Biology : CB May 2024Xyloglucan is believed to play a significant role in cell wall mechanics of dicot plants. Surprisingly, Arabidopsis plants defective in xyloglucan biosynthesis exhibit...
Xyloglucan is believed to play a significant role in cell wall mechanics of dicot plants. Surprisingly, Arabidopsis plants defective in xyloglucan biosynthesis exhibit nearly normal growth and development. We investigated a mutant line, cslc-Δ5, lacking activity in all five Arabidopsis cellulose synthase like-C (CSLC) genes responsible for xyloglucan backbone biosynthesis. We observed that this xyloglucan-deficient line exhibited reduced cellulose crystallinity and increased pectin levels, suggesting the existence of feedback mechanisms that regulate wall composition to compensate for the absence of xyloglucan. These alterations in cell wall composition in the xyloglucan-absent plants were further linked to a decrease in cell wall elastic modulus and rupture stress, as observed through atomic force microscopy (AFM) and extensometer-based techniques. This raised questions about how plants with such modified cell wall properties can maintain normal growth. Our investigation revealed two key factors contributing to this phenomenon. First, measurements of turgor pressure, a primary driver of plant growth, revealed that cslc-Δ5 plants have reduced turgor, preventing the compromised walls from bursting while still allowing growth to occur. Second, we discovered the conservation of elastic asymmetry (ratio of axial to transverse wall elasticity) in the mutant, suggesting an additional mechanism contributing to the maintenance of normal growth. This novel feedback mechanism between cell wall composition and mechanical properties, coupled with turgor pressure regulation, plays a central role in the control of plant growth and is critical for seedling establishment in a mechanically challenging environment by affecting shoot emergence and root penetration.
Topics: Cell Wall; Glucans; Xylans; Arabidopsis; Seedlings; Arabidopsis Proteins; Glucosyltransferases; Cellulose
PubMed: 38677280
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.016 -
Pharmaceutics Jan 2024Traditional wound dressings may lack suitability for diverse wound types and individual patient requirements. In this context, this study aimed to innovate wound care by...
3D-Printed Alginate/Pectin-Based Patches Loaded with Olive Leaf Extracts for Wound Healing Applications: Development, Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of Biological Properties.
Traditional wound dressings may lack suitability for diverse wound types and individual patient requirements. In this context, this study aimed to innovate wound care by developing a 3D-printed patch using alginate and pectin and incorporating Olive Leaf Extract (OLE) as an active ingredient. Different polymer-to-plasticizer ratios were systematically examined to formulate a printable ink with optimal viscosity. The resultant film, enriched with OLE, exhibited a substantial polyphenolic content of 13.15 ± 0.41 mg CAE/g, showcasing significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Notably, the film demonstrated potent scavenging abilities against DPPH, ABTS, and NO radicals, with IC values of 0.66 ± 0.07, 0.47 ± 0.04, and 2.02 ± 0.14 mg/mL, respectively. In vitro release and diffusion studies were carried out and the release profiles revealed an almost complete release of polyphenols from the patch within 48 h. Additionally, the fabricated film exhibited the capacity to enhance cell motility and accelerate wound healing, evidenced by increased collagen I expression in BJ fibroblast cells. Structural assessments affirmed the ability of the patch to absorb exudates and maintain the optimal moisture balance, while biocompatibility studies underscored its suitability for biomedical applications. These compelling findings endorse the potential application of the developed film in advanced wound care, with the prospect of tailoring patches to individual patient needs.
PubMed: 38258109
DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010099 -
Toxicology Research Feb 2024The safety of a rhamnogalacturonan-I-enriched pectin extract (G3P-01) from pumpkin ( var. Dickinson) was evaluated for use as an ingredient in food and dietary...
The safety of a rhamnogalacturonan-I-enriched pectin extract (G3P-01) from pumpkin ( var. Dickinson) was evaluated for use as an ingredient in food and dietary supplements. G3P-01 was tested in a battery of genetic toxicity studies including reverse mutagenicity and micronucleus assay. In addition, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized and orally dosed with G3P-01 incorporated in animal diet at concentrations of 0, 9000, 18,000, and 36,000 ppm daily for 13-weeks (n=10/sex/group) in line with OECD guidelines (TG 408). The results of the bacterial reverse mutation assay and micronucleus assay in TK6 cells demonstrated a lack of genotoxicity. The 13-week oral toxicity study in Sprague-Dawley rats demonstrated that the test article, G3P-01 was well tolerated; there were no mortalities and no adverse effects on clinical, gross pathology, hematology, blood chemistry, and histological evaluation of the essential organs of the animals. The present study demonstrates that G3P-01 is non-genotoxic and is safe when ingested in diet at concentrations up to 36, 000 ppm. The subchronic no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for G3P-01 was concluded to be 36,000 ppm, equivalent to 1,899 and 2,361 mg/kg/day for male and female rats respectively.
PubMed: 38274036
DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae004 -
Gene May 2024Seed hardness is a critical quality trait impacting both the suitability of soybeans for consumption and their processing. The primary objective of this study was to...
Seed hardness is a critical quality trait impacting both the suitability of soybeans for consumption and their processing. The primary objective of this study was to explore the genetic foundations underlying seed hardness in soybeans. A 234 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was evaluated for seed hardness across three years (2015 in Gansu, 2016, and 2017 in Hainan). Notably, the parent varieties, Zhonghuang35 and Jindou21, displayed significant differences in seed hardness. Also, the RIL population exhibited a wide range of genetic variation in seed hardness, with coefficients of variation between 70.53 % and 94.94 %. The frequency distribution of this trait conformed to a relatively normal distribution, making it suitable for QTL analysis. Six QTLs associated with seed hardness were identified with three located on chromosome 2 and three on chromosome 16. The major QTL, qHS-2-1, consistently exhibited the highest percentage of PVE and LOD in Gansu 2015, Hainan 2016, and Hainan 2017, suggesting its central role in determining seed hardness. Further investigation revealed four genes within the qHS-2-1 interval potentially related to seed hardness. GO enrichment analysis provided insights into their functions, including factors such as Glyma.02G307000, a pectin lyase-like superfamily protein, which could influence seed hardness through its role in pectin lyase enzyme activity. Expression analysis of these candidate genes demonstrated significant differences between the two parent varieties, further highlighting their potential role in seed coat hardness. This study offers valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms governing soybean seed coat hardness, providing a foundation for future research and crop improvement efforts.
Topics: Glycine max; Hardness; Chromosome Mapping; Phenotype; Seeds
PubMed: 38316262
DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148238 -
International Journal of Biological... Apr 2024Orally targeted delivery systems have attracted ample interest in colorectal cancer management. In this investigation, we developed Inositol hexaphosphate (IHP) loaded...
Orally targeted delivery systems have attracted ample interest in colorectal cancer management. In this investigation, we developed Inositol hexaphosphate (IHP) loaded Tripolyphosphate (Tr) crosslinked Pectin (Pe) Chitosan (Ch) nanoparticles (IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs) and modified them with l-Carnitine (CE) (CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs) to improve uptake in colon cells. The formulated CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs displayed a monodisperse distribution with 219.3 ± 5.5 nm diameter and 30.17 mV surface charge. Cell-line studies revealed that CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility in J774.2 and decreased cell viability in DLD-1, HT-29, and MCF7 cell lines. More cell internalization was seen in HT-29 and MCF7 due to overexpression of the OCTN2 and ATB transporter (CE transporters) compared to DLD-1. The cell cycle profile, reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and mitochondrial membrane potential assays were performed to explore the chemo-preventive mechanism of CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs. Moreover, the in-silico docking studies revealed enhanced interactive behavior of CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs, thereby proving their targeting ability. All the findings suggested that CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs could be a promising drug delivery approach for colon cancer targeting.
Topics: Humans; Phytic Acid; Chitosan; Pectins; Carnitine; MCF-7 Cells; Nanoparticles; Colon; Drug Carriers
PubMed: 38423444
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130517 -
Carbohydrate Polymers Sep 2024Understanding the formation of ice crystals is essential for tailoring the microstructure and physical properties of cryogels. This study investigated the effects and...
Understanding the formation of ice crystals is essential for tailoring the microstructure and physical properties of cryogels. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of pectin molecular weight (Mw) on impacting ice crystal formation. Pectin fractions various Mw (10.13-212.20 kDa) were prepared by hydrothermal method. The solution of high Mw pectin fractions exhibited higher contact angle, lower water freedom, and stronger adsorption of water molecules. The splat experiment and molecular dynamic (MD) results confirmed that higher Mw pectin have stronger ice crystal growth inhibition activity than lower Mw pectin. Furthermore, the pore size distribution of the cryogel increased from 98-203 μm to 105-267 μm as the molecular weight decreased from 212.2 kDa to 121.0 kDa. Additionally, in the higher Mw pectin cryogel, stronger mechanical strength was observed. These findings suggested that changing the molecular weight of pectin has the potential to regulate the ice crystal growth, microstructure and physical properties of frozen products.
PubMed: 38858011
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122312 -
Plant Cell Reports Jun 2024Calcium polypeptide plays a key role during cadmium stress responses in rice, which is involved in increasing peroxidase activity, modulating pectin methylesterase...
Calcium polypeptide plays a key role during cadmium stress responses in rice, which is involved in increasing peroxidase activity, modulating pectin methylesterase activity, and regulating cell wall by reducing malondialdehyde content. Cadmium (Cd) contamination threatens agriculture and human health globally, emphasizing the need for sustainable methods to reduce cadmium toxicity in crops. Calcium polypeptide (CaP) is a highly water-soluble small molecular peptide acknowledged for its potential as an organic fertilizer in promoting plant growth. However, it is still unknown whether CaP has effects on mitigating Cd toxicity. Here, we investigated the effect of CaP application on the ability to tolerate toxic Cd in rice. We evaluated the impact of CaP on rice seedlings under varying Cd stress conditions and investigated the effect mechanism of CaP mitigating Cd toxicity by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), fluorescent probe dye, immunofluorescent labeling, and biochemical analysis. We found a notable alleviation of Cd toxicity by reduced malondialdehyde content and increased peroxidase activity. In addition, our findings reveal that CaP induces structural alterations in the root cell wall by modulating pectin methylesterase activity. Altogether, our results confirm that CaP not only promoted biomass accumulation but also reduced Cd concentration in rice. This study contributes valuable insights to sustainable strategies for addressing Cd contamination in agricultural ecosystems.
Topics: Oryza; Cadmium; Oxidative Stress; Pectins; Malondialdehyde; Plant Proteins; Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases; Cell Wall; Seedlings; Peptides; Plant Roots; Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
PubMed: 38842544
DOI: 10.1007/s00299-024-03253-4 -
Chemosphere Jul 2024Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a widely recognized environment pollutant known for its high bioaccumulation potential and a long elimination half-life. Several...
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid exposure leads to downregulation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 expression and upregulation of markers associated with intestinal carcinogenesis in mouse intestinal tissues.
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a widely recognized environment pollutant known for its high bioaccumulation potential and a long elimination half-life. Several studies have shown that PFOS can alter multiple biological pathways and negatively affect human health. Considering the direct exposure to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to environmental pollutants, PFOS can potentially disrupt intestinal homeostasis. However, there is limited knowledge about the effect of PFOS exposure on normal intestinal tissues, and its contribution to GI-associated diseases remains to be determined. In this study, we examined the effect of PFOS exposure on the gene expression profile of intestinal tissues of C57BL/6 mice using RNAseq analysis. We found that PFOS exposure in drinking water significantly downregulates mitochondrial 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (HMGCS2), a rate-limiting ketogenic enzyme, in intestinal tissues of mice. We found that diets containing the soluble fibers inulin and pectin, which are known to be protective against PFOS exposure, were ineffective in reversing the downregulation of HMGCS2 expression in vivo. Analysis of intestinal tissues also demonstrated that PFOS exposure leads to upregulation of proteins implicated in colorectal carcinogenesis, including β-catenin, c-MYC, mTOR and FASN. Consistent with the in vivo results, PFOS exposure leads to downregulation of HMGCS2 in mouse and human normal intestinal organoids in vitro. Furthermore, we show that shRNA-mediated knockdown of HMGCS2 in a human normal intestinal cell line resulted in increased cell proliferation and upregulation of key proliferation-associated proteins such as cyclin D, survivin, ERK1/2 and AKT, along with an increase in lipid accumulation. In summary, our results suggest that PFOS exposure may contribute to pathological changes in normal intestinal cells via downregulation of HMGCS2 expression and upregulation of pro-carcinogenic signaling pathways that may increase the risk of colorectal cancer development.
Topics: Animals; Alkanesulfonic Acids; Fluorocarbons; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Synthase; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Carcinogenesis; Down-Regulation; Intestinal Neoplasms; Up-Regulation; Environmental Pollutants; Intestines; Humans; Intestinal Mucosa
PubMed: 38754493
DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142332 -
The Plant Journal : For Cell and... May 2024Proline metabolism plays a crucial role in both environmental stress responses and plant growth. However, the specific mechanism by which proline contributes to abiotic...
Rhamnogalacturonan lyase 1 (RGL1), as a suppressor of E3 ubiquitin ligase Arabidopsis thaliana ring zinc finger 1 (AtRZF1), is involved in dehydration response to mediate proline synthesis and pectin rhamnogalacturonan-I composition.
Proline metabolism plays a crucial role in both environmental stress responses and plant growth. However, the specific mechanism by which proline contributes to abiotic stress processes remains to be elucidated. In this study, we utilized atrzf1 (Arabidopsis thaliana ring zinc finger 1) as a parental line for T-DNA tagging mutagenesis and identified a suppressor mutant of atrzf1, designated proline content alterative 31 (pca31). The pca31 mutant suppressed the insensitivity of atrzf1 to dehydration stress during early seedling growth. Using Thermal Asymmetric Interlaced-PCR, we found that the T-DNA of pca31 was inserted into the promoter region of the At2g22620 gene, which encodes the cell wall enzyme rhamnogalacturonan lyase 1 (RGL1). Enzymatic assays indicated that RGL1 exhibited rhamnogalacturonan lyase activity, influencing cell wall pectin composition. The decrease in RGL1 gene expression suppressed the transcriptomic perturbation of the atrzf1 mutant. Silencing of the RGL1 gene in atrzf1 resulted in a sensitive phenotype similar to pca31 under osmotic stress conditions. Treatment with mannitol, salt, hydrogen peroxide, and abscisic acid induced RGL1 expression. Furthermore, we uncovered that RGL1 plays a role in modulating root growth and vascular tissue development. Molecular, physiological, and genetic experiments revealed that the positive modulation of RGL1 during abiotic stress was linked to the AtRZF1 pathway. Taken together, these findings establish that pca31 acts as a suppressor of atrzf1 in abiotic stress responses through proline and cell wall metabolisms.
PubMed: 38743860
DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16808