In silico identification and physicochemical analysis of potential novel antimicrobial peptides from Momordica charantia L.
The emergence of antibacterial resistance has necessitated the development of alternative treatments, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs are part of the innate immune systems of various organisms such as Momordica charantia L., a known medicinal plant in Southeast Asia. In this study, potential novel AMPs from M. charantia were derived in silico to provide prospective antibiotic alternatives using promising plant-based peptides. M. charantia protein sequences that were 500 amino acids long were digested using proteolytic enzymes, resulting in 3,621 peptides. Each resulting sequence was characterized as either AMP or Non-AMP using four statistical analysis tools, and those identified as AMPs were analyzed. This led to 102 AMPs, 53 of which were unregistered on the Data Repository for Antimicrobial Peptides, indicating that they have yet to be derived from other species. Six of the eight studied physicochemical properties show strong correlations with each other, suggesting that subsequent AMP design studies may focus on these six properties. As such, M. charantia may be a rich source of potential AMPs and, thereby, alternative antibiotics. The in vitro examination of these novel AMPs is also recommended to further understand their potential as alternative antibiotics sourced from locally available plants.
DSUP: New Research On The Implementation Of Radioresistance In Cellular Systems
In radiation treatments and manned interplanetary space travel, radiation is one of the biggest problems. The radiotolerance of cancer cells makes it necessary to apply high doses to surrounding healthy tissues by subjecting the cells to heavy stress. With regard to space travel (which involves a minimum travel time of 6 months) (1,2) the danger concerns cosmic radiation which is capable of inducing genetic mutations that, in turn, can evolve into very serious pathologies, such as cancer, damage to dendrites consequently compromising synapses. The project is aimed at developing a technology that can address these issues and aims to make human DNA radioresistant. This study involves a nucleosome-binding protein called DSUP (Damage Suppressor Protein) unique to the tardigrade Ramazzottius Varieornatus and the subject of its radioresistance. It can theoretically safeguard genetic material damaged by radiation. *Internship theme at the Pino Torinese Astronomical Observatory and the DISIT-UPO Environmental Molecular Toxicology Laboratory. The study molecule: Numerous tests have been carried out through the "in silico" approach geared toward mathematical modeling of its protein structure and complex mechanisms of action simulated through artificial intelligence systems, followed by direct laboratory analysis involving biosynthesis of DSUP by genetically modified bacteria and related tests. Both approaches, applied synergistically, aim to make it accessible and useful for the protection of human health.
探討藉由隧道奈米管(TNTs)傳遞Chromogranin-A對神經母細胞瘤細胞的影響及其相關機制
Previous research observed increased TNTs formation between hypoxic and normoxic neuroblastoma cells, aiding hypoxic cell survival. CHGA was identified as a potential factor in this process. This study compared CHGA expression and whether CHGA exists in TNTs in five cell lines, with SH-SY5Y showing the highest levels, followed by SK-N-BE(2)C, while the other three showed lower expression. Future studies will focus on the impact of CHGA on cell survival and its mechanisms.
探討藉由隧道奈米管(TNTs)傳遞Chromogranin-A對神經母細胞瘤細胞的影響及其相關機制
Previous research observed increased TNTs formation between hypoxic and normoxic neuroblastoma cells, aiding hypoxic cell survival. CHGA was identified as a potential factor in this process. This study compared CHGA expression and whether CHGA exists in TNTs in five cell lines, with SH-SY5Y showing the highest levels, followed by SK-N-BE(2)C, while the other three showed lower expression. Future studies will focus on the impact of CHGA on cell survival and its mechanisms.