Archives of Biological Sciences

Identification and preliminary bioactivity screening of the marine endophytic fungus Aspergillus terreus strain BAWK-F6 derived from Algerian brown seaweed

2025-12-04T12:31:46+01:00

Paper description:

The algicolous endophyte fungus Aspergillus terreus BAWK-F6 isolated from brown seaweed was investigated for its bioactive potential.

Integrated molecular identification and GC-MS bioactive metabolite profiling were conducted, revealing the distinctive characteristics of the strain.
The crude fungal extract showed multiple bioactivities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibiofilm, anti-inflammatory, and anti-urolithic activities.
By providing strain-specific molecular identification and bioactivity profiles, this work enhances current knowledge of marine terreus associated with algal hosts along the Algerian coast.

Abstract: Marine fungi are known for their ability to produce bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical potential. However, their growth in diverse and often extreme habitats makes laboratory cultivation difficult, thereby limiting research progress. The algicolous endophyte fungus Aspergillus terreus strain BAWK-F6 was isolated from brown seaweed Dictyota dichotoma and identified through molecular analyses. The fungal extract was evaluated for a range of biological activities. Molecular identification revealed a high genetic similarity with other A. terreus strains, and chemical analysis using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified 28 compounds. The extract demonstrated antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 1.98 to 2.32 mg/mL. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated that the extract effectively inhibited a broad spectrum of Gram-negative pathogens, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 0.625 to 1.25 mg/mL. The extract also exhibited potent antibiofilm activity, especially against Staphylococcus aureus. It exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting protein denaturation and stabilizing red blood cell membranes, as well as anti-urolithic potential by suppressing the formation of calcium phosphate crystals. These findings highlight the therapeutic promise of Aspergillus terreus BAWK-F6 as a source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in pharmacology and biotechnology.

Interaction between ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism and type 2 diabetes mellitus in pancreatic cancer risk: Evidence from an Algerian cohort

2025-11-25T14:04:23+01:00

Paper description:

Specific genetic variations in the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene and type 2 diabetes (T2D) have both been independently studied for their links to pancreatic cancer, with inconsistent results across different populations.
We conducted a genetic case-control study in Algeria, comparing 35pancreatic cancer patients to 140 healthy controls to analyze this gene-diabetes interaction.
We discovered that the risk from gene variation was significantly elevated only in individuals with T2D, revealing a critical interaction.
This identifies a high-risk patient subgroup for potential targeted screening and suggests that existing blood pressure drugs targeting this system warrant investigation for pancreatic cancer prevention.

Abstract: Pancreatic cancer risk was investigated in relation to the angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and its interaction with type 2 diabetes mellitus in an Eastern Algerian population through a hospital-based case-control study. The research involved 35 patients with confirmed pancreatic cancer and 140 matched healthy controls. Genotyping was performed to determine ACE I/D profiles, and statistical analysis was used to quantify risk associations. Type 2 diabetes mellitus was common, affecting more than half of the patients. The heterozygous ID genotype was associated with a 2.5-fold increased cancer risk, and this association was significant only among individuals with diabetes. Multivariable analysis suggested the ID genotype as an independent risk factor, with an approximately 8-fold higher risk after adjustments. This preliminary study suggests the ACE I/D polymorphism may influence pancreatic cancer risk, with type 2 diabetes acting as a critical effect modifier and identifying a potential high-risk subgroup for targeted surveillance. These exploratory findings warrant validation in larger, population-based cohorts.

Association of ORMDL3 and IKZF3 expression with the IL2RA rs2104286 risk variant in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

2025-12-01T13:39:17+01:00

Paper description:

IL-2 affects the expression of lymphocyte function genes Ormdl3 and Ikzf3 implicated in multiple sclerosis (MS). IL2RA rs2104286, a genetic variant strongly associated with MS, affects disease risk by attenuating IL-2 signaling.
In 66 relapsing-remitting MS patients and 45 controls, the association of blood mononuclear cell ORMDL3 and IKZF3 mRNA expression levels with rs2104286 were tested, assessed by qPCR.
In the MS group, increased expression of target genes, and in controls, lower expression of IKZF3 was associated with the protective G allele.
A disease-specific association between rs2104286 and ORMDL3 and IKZF3 gene expression is proposed.

Abstract: The genetic variant IL2RA rs2104286 (A>G) is strongly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. It modulates IL-2 signaling, thereby influencing the expression of lymphocyte function-related genes ORMDL3 and IKZF3 that are implicated in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the association of rs2104286 with ORMDL3 and IKZF3 mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients and controls. The study included 66 RRMS patients and 45 healthy controls from the Serbian population. Genotyping and gene expression analysis were performed using qPCR. In RRMS patients, increased ORMDL3 and IKZF3 mRNA expression was associated with the MS-protective G allele (ORMDL3: P = 0.014, 1.35-fold increase; IKZF3: P = 0.023, 1.38-fold increase). In controls, decreased expression of IKZF3 was associated with the G allele (P=0.038, 0.72-fold change). Sex, disease phase, interferon β therapy, and the ORMDL3 and IKZF3 expression quantitative trait locus (rs12946510) did not influence the association between target gene expression and rs2104286. The overall results suggest a disease-specific association between the IL2RA rs2104286 variant and ORMDL3 and IKZF3 expression. Our findings support the notion that the rs2104286 variant may modulate IL-2 signaling in PBMCs, thereby influencing the expression of the immune-relevant genes ORMDL3 and IKZF3.

Phytochemical profile and hepatoprotective effects of Crotalaria vialattei against antituberculosis drug-induced liver injury

2026-01-11T07:32:36+01:00

Paper description:

Crotalaria vialattei, is an endemic Algerian plant whose phytochemical composition and biological properties remain poorly documented.
The n-butanol extract of vialattei was characterized by LC–MS/MS and evaluated for its antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effects in a rat model of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity.
The extract exhibited a phenolic-rich profile, measurable antioxidant activity, and significant protective effects against RHZ-induced hepatic alterations.
These findings provide new experimental evidence supporting the potential relevance of vialattei as a source of bioactive compounds with hepatoprotective activity.

Abstract: Tuberculosis is a global public health concern, and its treatment is frequently associated with hepatotoxic side effects. Phytotherapy represents a promising complementary approach. This study aimed to characterize the phenolic profile of the n-butanol extract of Crotalaria vialattei (BCV), evaluate its antioxidant capacity, and assess its hepatoprotective effects against liver damage induced by a fixed-dose antituberculosis drug combination containing rifampin, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide (RHZ). Phytochemical analysis revealed a phenolic-rich extract, identifying 17 polyphenolic compounds. BCV exhibited measurable antioxidant activity in vitro. In vivo, oral administration of RHZ (rifampin 150 mg/kg, isoniazid 75 mg/kg, and pyrazinamide 400 mg/kg) induced marked alterations in hepatic biochemical markers, lipid profile, oxidative status, and liver histoarchitecture. BCV treatment significantly attenuated these changes by improving liver enzyme activities, restoring oxidative balance, and preserving liver architecture. Overall, the BCV extract demonstrates antioxidant-associated hepatoprotective potential against RHZ-induced liver injury and may represent a promising complementary strategy to reduce antituberculosis drug-related hepatotoxicity.

Effects of troxerutin and selenium supplementation in mitigating cypermethrin-induced behavioral impairments and oxidative stress in mice

2026-01-07T10:59:56+01:00

Paper description:

Previous studies reported the neuroprotective effects of individual supplementation of troxerutin and selenium in terms of improved behavioral functions and redox status against cypermethrin-induced neurotoxicity in rodents.
The co-supplementation effects of troxerutin and selenium have not been reported and are the primary focus of this study.
A sub-acute mouse model was employed, administering cypermethrin along with single and combined supplementation of troxerutin and selenium.
Single and co-supplementations alleviated behavioral deficits, oxidative stress, and normalized serum biomarkers.

Abstract: The current research aimed to investigate the potential effectiveness of single and combined supplementation with troxerutin (Trx) and selenium (Se) against cypermethrin (Cyp)-induced neurotoxicity and oxidative stress in mice. Thirty mice were randomly divided into five groups. The control group received 0.9% normal saline orally; the Cyp group received Cyp (5 mg/kg) orally; the Cyp+Trx group received Trx (150 mg/kg) in combination with Cyp; the Cyp+Se group received Se (25 µg/kg) with Cyp; and the Cyp+Trx+Se group received Trx (150 mg/kg) and Se (25 µg/kg) together with Cyp, all administered orally for 28 days. The individual and combined supplementation of Trx and Se significantly improved motor impairment, memory function, hepatic and renal health markers, and reduced anxiety levels (inside time/time in centar zone) in Cyp-exposed mice. Moreover, all supplementations reduced the Cyp-induced oxidative stress, but the SOD activity was increased in the serum and brain by the supplementation of Trx and Se, respectively. Liver and kidney SOD activities were improved with all the supplementations. Combined supplementation of Trx and Se enhanced brain acetylcholinesterase activity compared to the Cyp group. These findings suggest that both single and combined supplementation with Trx and Se confer neuroprotection against pesticide-induced oxidative and behavioral alterations; however, brain acetylcholinesterase activity and renal health markers were improved only by the combined Trx and Se supplementation.

Fumigant toxicity and sublethal effects of Thymus munbyanus essential oil on biomarkers, reproduction, and locomotion in the Mediterranean flour moth Ephestia kuehniella

2025-12-30T18:38:30+01:00

Paper description:

Thymus munbyanus essential oil was evaluated as a botanical fumigant for controlling the Mediterranean flour moth, Ephestia kuehniella, a major pest of stored grain products.
A range of fumigation concentrations was first tested to determine the lethal doses causing 25% and 50% mortality, which were then used to assess sublethal effects on adult survival and behaviour.
Exposure induced oxidative stress responses by increasing glutathione S-transferase and catalase activities, and caused neurotoxicity through acetylcholinesterase inhibition.
Reduced mobility and reproductive performance suggest long-term population suppression potential, supporting the development of eco-friendly botanical insecticides.

Abstract: This study evaluated the fumigant toxicity of Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus essential oil against adult Ephestia kuehniella (Zeller). To determine sublethal effects, we integrated biochemical biomarkers with assessments of reproductive performance and locomotor activity. Adults were exposed via fumigation to concentrations between 0.05 and 0.8 μL/mL of air, with lethal concentrations calculated after 24 h of exposure. The essential oil showed strong fumigant activity, with LD₂₅ and LD₅₀ values of 0.153 and 0.26 μL/mL of air, respectively. Sublethal exposure at these concentrations was associated with changes in biomarker responses in adults, including increased glutathione S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities, along with decreased acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. In addition, fumigation affected adult reproductive performance by reducing oviposition, as reflected by a decrease in the number of eggs laid and hatched. Locomotor activity was also impaired, with reductions in distance traveled, movement duration, and movement speed. Overall, these findings suggest that T. munbyanus essential oil has potential as a botanical fumigant against E. kuehniella adults.

Ecological and morphological traits of the invasive pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) in Serbian lowland reservoirs

2026-02-26T15:30:41+01:00

Paper description:

Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) is one of the most widespread invasive freshwater fish in Europe, established in Serbian reservoirs.
The age structure, growth, body shape, condition, and diet of 434 individuals from five eutrophic lowland reservoirs were analyzed using scale reading, growth modelling, geometric morphometrics, and gut content analysis.
Populations exhibited seven age classes, slow growth with positive allometry, good condition, significant body shape variation, and diets dominated by aquatic invertebrates, with high inter-reservoir similarity but variable niche breadth.
These results demonstrate the strong ecological flexibility of pumpkinseed in artificial waterbodies and provide a scientific basis for improved monitoring and management.

Abstract: This study investigates the ecological and morphological traits of invasive pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) in five lowland reservoirs in Serbia. A total of 434 specimens were collected in October 2020 and analyzed for population structure and growth parameters, body shape, condition, and diet. The population consisted of seven age classes, with three distinct age structures identified across the analyzed reservoirs. The highest growth increment occurred during the first year of life. Compared to other European populations, this cohort exhibited the slowest overall growth, characterized by the lowest k values. However, the specimens maintained a robust body condition (K>1) and displayed positive allometric growth (b>3). The autumn diet included 14 prey categories, with Chironomidae larvae being the most prominent. Mean dietary similarity between reservoirs was 75.7%, indicating significant dietary niche overlap. Niche breadth analysis showed greater dietary specialization in Topola and Kudreč 2, and lower specialization in Jatagan, where prey diversity was highest. These findings offer valuable insights into the adaptive potential and ecological impact of this invasive species and can support future management and monitoring strategies.

Potential genotoxicity of Salvia pratensis L. aqueous extracts and their biogenic silver nanoparticles

2026-02-14T10:04:03+01:00

Paper description:

Medicinal plants are important sources of bioactive compounds. Plant-based silver nanoparticles are explored for biomedical use. Their potential genotoxic effects require careful evaluation to ensure biological safety.
This study investigated aqueous extracts from the root and aerial parts of Salvia pratensis and their biogenic silver nanoparticles using human mononuclear cells and cytogenetic assay.
The observed differences in genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects between plant extracts and their corresponding silver nanoparticles highlight tissue-specific and concentration-dependent responses.
The study provides new evidence relevant to safety assessment of plant-derived products and biogenic nanoparticles, contributing to their informed and responsible biomedical application.

Abstract: Biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles using plant extracts is considered an eco-friendly approach with promising biomedical applications; however, data on their safety, particularly genotoxicity, remain limited. This study evaluated the phenolic composition and genotoxic potential of aqueous extracts from the root (SPR) and aerial parts (SPA) of Salvia pratensis L. and their corresponding biogenic silver nanoparticles (SPR-AgNPs and SPA-AgNPs). Spectrophotometric methods were used to quantify total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and LC-MS analysis was employed to characterize the phenolic profiles. The genotoxic potential of the extracts and AgNPs was evaluated in human lymphocytes via the comet assay, with treatments applied at four concentrations ranging from 25 to 100 µg/mL, either independently or in combination with hydrogen peroxide. Both extracts exhibited high phenolic content, with lower flavonoid levels in SPR. LC-MS analysis identified rosmarinic acid as the predominant compound in SPA and salvianolic acid K in SPR. Both extracts and AgNPs increased DNA damage in lymphocytes. In contrast, only the SPA extract lowered H₂O₂-induced DNA damage, demonstrating a pronounced protective effect. These findings indicate potential genotoxic risks associated with S. pratensis extracts and their AgNPs, while also highlighting selective protective properties depending on the plant part used.