Archives of Biological Sciences

The bioherbicidal potential of hemlock water extracts

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Plant water extracts are used in agricultural research due to their environmentally friendly preparation and bioactive compounds that can be used in weed control.
Conium maculatum water extract (CmWE) cytotoxic effects on weed and one crop species were evaluated.
CmWE of dry leaves (50%) inhibited seed germination. CmWE of dry stems (50%) inhibited seed germination of media, A. retroflexus and A. artemisiifolia from 20% to 89%; germination of L. sativa was less affected (9%). CmWE of dry stems (5%) inhibited ragweed germination (45%); germination of Lactuca sativa was unaffected.
maculatum water extracts have natural herbicide potential.

Abstract: Studying plant species rich in bioactive compounds, including allelochemicals, could lead to the development of biodegradable and environmentally safe herbicides. In this study, a water extract of hemlock (Conium maculatum L.), known to be rich in alkaloids, was used to investigate its effects on the germination of Amaranthus retroflexus L., Ambrosia artemisiifolia L., Stellaria media (L.) Vill., and Lactuca sativa L., providing valuable insights into its phytotoxic properties. Among the C. maculatum water extracts (CmWEs) tested, that of dry leaves showed the strongest inhibitory effect on the germination of all species analyzed. The CmWE of dry leaves (50%) completely inhibited seed germination of all species tested. The CmWE of dry stems (50%) reduced seed germination in S. media, A. retroflexus, and A. artemisiifolia by 20% to 89%, whereas the germination of L. sativa was less affected (9%). In addition, a CmWE of dry stems (5%) selectively inhibited ragweed germination (45%), while the germination of Lactuca sativa was not significantly affected. The CmWE of dry leaves (20%) inhibited early root and shoot growth of S. media more effectively than suppressing seed germination. Moreover, the dry leaves and inflorescences of C. maculatum demonstrate strong allelopathic properties even after two years of storage, highlighting the long-term potential of C. maculatum as a source of natural herbicides.

Exploring microplastic pollution in the pristine Ghar-e-Tangi Cave: first evidence from Pakistan’s subterranean ecosystem

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Microplastic pollution has been detected in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Studies on the accumulation of microplastics in subterranean environments like caves are limited.
This study examined the distribution and characteristics of microplastics in a subterranean ecosystem, a remote cave in Pakistan. Sediments in the cave were analyzed by microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).
A significant concentration gradient of microplastics from the entrance to deeper sections was found. Microplastics with diverse colors, shapes, sizes, and polymer types were detected, suggesting multiple sources and input pathways.
These findings underscore the pervasive nature of microplastics even in isolated environments.

Abstract: Microplastics (MPs) are a pervasive environmental pollutant, yet their presence in subterranean environments, particularly in remote locations, remains understudied. This study quantifies the abundance, distribution, and characteristics of MPs in the sediments of Ghar-e-Tangi, an isolated cave in Balochistan, Pakistan, and explores their potential input pathways. Triplicate sediment samples were collected from three distinct sites along a gradient from entrance to deeper sections. MPs were extracted and analyzed for their number, color, size, and shape using microscopy, while MPs ≥ 1 mm were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Significant differences were observed in the distribution of MP by shape (P=0.004), color (P=0.002), and size (P=0.005), as well as across the sites (P=0.001–0.041). MP abundance decreased significantly from the entrance to deeper sections (Site A=99 MPs/kg, Site B=49 MPs/kg, Site C=37 MPs/kg, P=0.001). Transparent MPs were predominant (38.4%, 23.67±10.97), along with eight identified colors. Of the five shapes identified, fragments were the most prevalent (36.8%, 22.67±11.72). MPs measuring >3-5 mm constituted the largest proportion (45.4%, 28.0±14.42). The observed gradient suggests surface runoff and atmospheric deposition as primary input pathways. These findings align with global studies, highlighting the pervasive nature of MPs, even in remote environments such as the Ghar-e-Tangi cave.

Antidiabetic, antioxidant, and therapeutic effects of Salvia balansae leaf and stem extracts on sexual function in diabetic male rats

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Diabetes mellitus adversely impacts male sexual function. Natural antioxidants found in sage have shown therapeutic potential in mitigating diabetes-related dysfunctions.
balansae leaf and stem extracts were prepared using decoction methods. The extracts were analyzed for in vitro antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol, and flavonoid content. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were treated orally with these extracts and data were collected on acute toxicity, glycemic levels, sexual behavior parameters, and serum testosterone levels.
The extracts improved glycemic control, sexual performance, and testosterone levels, highlighting their aphrodisiac potential.
balansae offers safe natural therapy with anti-hyperglycemic and aphrodisiac effects for managing diabetes-related sexual dysfunction.

Abstract: This study investigates the in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, and in vivo the pro-sexual activities of aqueous extracts from Salvia balansae leaves (LAE) and stems (SAE) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, as well as the antioxidant activity of the extracts, were assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging and FRAP assays. Following the induction of diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (40 mg/kg), diabetic rats received 200 mg/kg of LAE/SAE. Acute oral toxicity, glycemic levels, sexual behavior parameters, and serum testosterone levels were assessed. S. balansae extracts exhibited high levels of total polyphenols and flavonoids, reflecting an antioxidant capacity. Acute toxicity tests confirmed a high safety margin, with no observed toxicity at doses up to 2 g/kg. In diabetic rats, LAE and SAE administration reduced hyperglycemia and enhanced sexual function, as evidenced by increased male-female interaction frequency, decreased latency times, and elevated serum testosterone levels, pointing to an aphrodisiac effect. This work demonstrates the therapeutic potential of S. balansae leaf and stem extracts in improving reproductive function in diabetic rats, potentially through its antioxidant, antihyperglycemic and aphrodisiac properties.

Keywords: Salvia balansae Noë ex Coss, antioxidant, acute toxicity, aphrodisiac, antihyperglycemic.

Sodium benzoate may reduce appetite in Drosophila melanogaster through serotonin upregulation

John Sylvester B. Nas, Paul Mark B. Medina — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Sodium benzoate upregulates serotonin. We hypothesized that it induces satiety and activates caloric restriction pathways, driving mechanisms that promote longevity and enhance stress resilience in Drosophila melanogaster.
The effects of sodium benzoate on food consumption, lifespan, tryptophan metabolites, Sirt1, and stress resilience were examined in melanogaster.
Sodium benzoate reduced food intake, increased serotonin levels, and elevated Sirt1 expression. It extended lifespan under normal and energy-deprived conditions. It did not enhance resilience to heat or UVA-induced stress.
Sodium benzoate activates caloric restriction pathways through serotonin upregulation, which supports a role in dietary interventions targeting aging and metabolic health.

Abstract: Sodium benzoate is a common artificial preservative in processed food, yet little is known about its long-term health effects. Since sodium benzoate could upregulate serotonin, we hypothesized that it may induce satiety and activate processes underlying caloric restriction that can lead to lifespan extension. In this study, the effects of sodium benzoate on tryptophan metabolism and its potential association with lifespan and stress tolerance in Drosophila melanogaster were investigated. We administered varying doses of sodium benzoate to male and female flies, monitoring their daily food consumption, serotonin levels, kynurenine/tryptophan (kyn/trp) ratio, Sirt1 levels, and survival under normal conditions. Additionally, separate groups of flies were exposed to stressors such as heat, ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, and energy deprivation to assess the compound’s effects on lifespan under diverse stress conditions. Our results demonstrated that fruit flies fed sodium benzoate exhibited reduced food consumption, decreased kyn/trp ratio, and increased serotonin. The expression of Sirt1, an indicator of the effect of caloric restriction, increased. Their lifespan was prolonged under normal and energy-deprived conditions but was unaffected under heat and UVA stress. Overall, our findings are consistent with our hypothesis that the upregulation of Sirt1 through sodium benzoate supplementation is associated with increased serotonin levels, which may explain delayed senescence and resilience under energy-deprived conditions.

Genetic association of ABCA7 and PSEN1 polymorphisms with Alzheimer’s disease in the northeast Algerian population: Exploring risk factors

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

ABCA7 and PSEN1 genes are implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) susceptibility due to their role in β-amyloid accumulation and neurodegeneration. Investigating these variants in the Algerian population allows for the assessment of their contribution to AD risk in a distinct genetic context.
A case-control study examined the association of ABCA7 rs3764650 and PSEN1 rs165932 with AD risk using PCR-RFLP genotyping.
A significant association was found between rs3764650 and rs165932 and AD, particularly in late-onset cases and females.
This study enhances understanding of AD genetics in the Algerian population, emphasizing the need for targeted studies and potential genetic screening.

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with a strong genetic component. This research aims to identify the relationship between ABCA7 rs3764650, PSEN1 rs165932, and AD in the northeast Algerian population and investigate genetic risk factors contributing to disease susceptibility. A case-control study was performed with 98 patients and 156 controls. DNA was isolated from blood samples by salting out. Genotyping of ABCA7 and PSEN1 polymorphisms was conducted using PCR-RFLP. Significant associations were observed between ABCA7 rs3764650 and AD under dominant and additive models. Similarly, PSEN1 rs165932 was associated with a higher risk of AD under dominant, recessive, and additive models. The frequency of the ABCA7 G allele was significantly associated with PSEN1 T allele carriers (P=0.033), with no significant association observed in non-carriers. In contrast, the PSEN1 T allele frequency was significant in both ABCA7 G allele carriers (P=0.006) and non-carriers (P=0.001). Allelic frequencies for ABCA7 and PSEN1 were higher in late-onset cases (P=0.003; P< 0.001) and females (P=0.006; P< 0.001). This study highlights the association of the ABCA7 rs3764650 G and PSEN1 rs165932 T alleles with AD susceptibility, particularly in females and late-onset cases, suggesting their relevance as genetic markers of disease risk.

Assessment of facial and nasal phenotypes: implications in forensic facial reconstruction

Ankita Guleria, Kewal Krishan, Vishal Sharma — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Facial identification is a useful method in forensic examinations and biometric evaluations.
The present study is an attempt to evaluate the phenotypes of face and nose based on facial and nasal indices in a North Indian population.
Facial photographs and anthropometric measurements were taken for the assessment of facial and nasal indices. The faces and the noses were classified into five phenotypes based on standard numerical values of facial and nasal indices.
The procedure is useful in biometric evaluations, forensic identification, facial recognition technology, and facial reconstruction as well as a reference to improving facial surgeries and rhinoplasty.

Abstract: The present study is an attempt to evaluate the phenotypes of face and nose based on facial and nasal indices in a North Indian population. The study comprises 228 (158 males and 70 females) healthy, young, and adult participants ranging in age from 18 to 35 years. Facial photographs and anthropometric measurements were taken for the assessment of facial and nasal indices. The faces and noses were classified into five phenotypes based on standard numerical values of facial and nasal indices. The most common facial phenotypes were observed to be hypereuryprosopic (61 males, 38.60%, and 31 females, 44.28%), and euryprosopic (51 males, 32.27%, and 14 females, 20%). For the nasal phenotype, mesorrhine was most common among males (56.32%, 89]), while leptorrhine was predominant among females (55.71%, 39). The study's findings highlight facial variations and phenotype assessments that may aid forensic investigations, biometric evaluations, facial recognition technology, medico-legal applications, and facial reconstruction. Additionally, they serve as a valuable reference for enhancing facial surgeries and rhinoplasty. The study adds to the existing database of facial and nasal anthropometry for further use and comparison purposes.

A pilot case-control study of the association of vitamin D-related gene variants with peri-implantitis

Marko Magić, Zoran Lazić, Stevo Jovandić, Dragana Rakašević, Katarina Zeljić — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

This pilot case-control study explored whether genetic variants in vitamin D-related genes, vitamin D receptor (VDR), retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRA), and cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily B member 1 (CYP27B1), can serve as risk markers for peri-implantitis development.
The study enrolled 82 patients with dental implants, 30 had peri-implantitis, and 52 exhibited healthy peri-implant tissues.
Genetic variants (VDR rs2228570, RXRA rs3118523, rs7864987, and CYP27B1 rs4646536) were analyzed using Real-Time PCR to determine their association with peri-implantitis.
No significant differences in genotype distributions between peri-implantitis and healthy groups were observed, suggesting that genetic variants are unreliable markers for peri-implantitis susceptibility.

Abstract: This pilot case-control study investigated whether variants in vitamin D-related genes can be used to predict the occurrence of peri-implantitis. Eighty-two patients with at least one dental implant were enrolled. Thirty patients (36.6%) were diagnosed with peri-implantitis, whereas 52 (63.4%) had healthy peri-implant tissues. Clinical parameters, risk factors (history of periodontitis, smoking), and genetic factors were assessed. A buccal mucosa swab was taken for DNA analysis. Four variants in three vitamin D-related genes, VDR (rs2228570), retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRA) (rs3118523, rs7864987), and cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily B member 1 (CYP27B1) (rs4646536) were genotyped by real-time PCR. There was no difference in the genotype distribution of the variants VDR rs2228570 (P=0.410), RXRA rs3118523, rs7864987 (P=0.789 and P=0.144, respectively), and CYP27B1 rs4646536 (P=0.562) between patients with healthy peri-implant tissues and those affected by peri-implantitis. History of periodontitis, a modified plaque index (mPI), modified bleeding index (mBI), peri-implant pocket depth, and implant location were associated with peri-implantitis incidence. In patients with peri-implantitis, CYP27B1 rs4646536 was associated with mBI (P=0.040), and RXRA rs7864987 was associated with implant position (P=0.009). We conclude that the variants of vitamin D-related genes, VDR, RXRA, and CYP27B1, cannot be used as molecular markers for peri-implantitis.

Korean red ginseng extracts alleviate skin damage in heat-stimulated skin cells by suppressing NF-κB activation

Jeeyoung Kim, Weon Jeong Bang, Yung Hyup Joo, Sung Hyun Lee, Chang-Seok Lee — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Red ginseng extract (RG) contains ginsenosides, gintonins, and polypeptides, and exhibits anti-aging, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties.
In vitro studies examined the recovery effects of RG on skin damage caused by heat-induced barrier disruption, aging, and inflammation.
RG alleviated skin barrier damage. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways were activated by heat stimulation, but only NF-κB activation was suppressed by RG treatment.
RG restores and alleviates skin damage.

Abstract: This study explored the impact of heat stimulation on skin barrier damage, aging, and inflammatory responses by analyzing gene and protein-level changes. Additionally, it examined the restorative effects and regulatory mechanisms of red ginseng (RG) extract. The results demonstrated that heat stimulation decreased mRNA expression of the skin barrier markers, aquaporin 3 (AQP3), ceramide synthase 3 (CerS3), and occludin (OCL), while increasing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-1, MMP-2, and MMP-3, and proinflammatory factors such as interleukins IL-6 and IL-8, which are associated with skin damage. RG treatment modulated the expression of disrupted skin barrier markers (AQP3, CerS3, OCL), aging markers (MMP-1, -2, -3), and inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-8), confirming the recovery-promoting effects against heat-induced skin damage. Mechanistic analysis revealed that both nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways were activated by heat stimulation, with NF-κB activation suppressed by RG treatment. In conclusion, RG demonstrated the ability to restore skin integrity and alleviate damage.

Naringin protects against diabetic cataracts in rats by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation

Gaoqiang Meng, Li Meng, Yalong Xu — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Paper description:

Naringin contributes to the development of effective interventions for diabetic cataracts. This study elucidates its therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms.
Diabetic rats treated with naringin had a significantly lower incidence and severity of cataracts than vehicle-treated counterparts.
Naringin treatment effectively mitigated detrimental effects by enhancing Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defenses and suppressing NF-κB-driven inflammatory responses.
These results enhance our understanding of the role of natural compounds in managing diabetic complications and lay the groundwork for future research and potential clinical applications.

Abstract: This study investigated the efficacy of naringin, a bioflavonoid recognized for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, in preventing the development of diabetic cataracts. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and age-matched controls were treated either with naringin or a vehicle for 12 weeks. Cataract formation scores, oxidative stress markers, proinflammatory cytokines, and the transcription factor Nrf2 and NF-κB activities in the lens were assessed. Diabetic rats treated with naringin had a significantly reduced incidence and severity of cataracts compared to vehicle-treated counterparts. Vehicle-treated diabetic rats had elevated oxidative stress and inflammation in the lens, characterized by decreased Nrf2 activity and increased NF-κB activity. Naringin treatment effectively mitigated these detrimental effects by enhancing Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defenses and suppressing NF-κB-driven inflammatory responses. Importantly, naringin did not significantly alter blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, indicating its cataract-preventive effects were independent of glycemic control. Naringin has a protective role against the onset and progression of diabetic cataracts by modulating key oxidative and inflammatory pathways in the lens. These findings suggest it is a promising therapeutic agent for preventing diabetic cataracts.