Browsing by Author "Safwat, Gehan"

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Alkali-cellulose/ Polyvinyl alcohol biofilms fabricated with essential clove oil as a novel scented antimicrobial packaging material
(Elsevier Ltd., 2022-12) Sayed, Asmaa; Safwat, Gehan; Abdel-raouf, Manar; Mahmoud, Ghada A
The increased environmental awareness issues encouraged the manufacture of food -wares and packaging items from cellulosic materials to cope with the rapid growth of fast- food industry. In this work, scented biofilms with potent antimicrobial activity were prepared in a multi-step process assisted with the AFM. The biofilms comprised of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) physically crosslinked with different weight ratios of alkaline cellulose (Na-Cell) [PVA/Na-Cell]. Then, the effect of gamma irradiation on the surface features of the optimized sample (PVA/Na-Cell4) was verified at 5-25 KGy. The optimum film (PVA/Na- Cell4.20kGy) was fabricated with different weight ratios of essential clove oil (ECO). The biofilms were characterized by the AFM, FT-IR, XRD, TGA, and the DMA. The contact angle measurements of the optimized films reveal wettability resistance as following: PVA/Na-Cell4.0kGy (102.48o ) < PVA/Na-Cell4.20kGy (133.66o )< PVA/Na-Cell4.ECO20kGy (140.62o ). The antimicrobial investigation displayed remarkable effect against different pathogens. Therefore, the claimed biofilms are excellent candidates for packaging application.
Alleviation of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles induced genotoxicity and gastritis by coadministration of calcium titanate and yttrium oxide nanoparticles in mice
(Nature Publishing Group, 2023-11) Mohamed, Hanan R. H; Elbasiouni, Salma H; Farouk, Ahmed H; Nasif, KirollsA; Nasraldin, Karima; Safwat, Gehan
Diverse applications of nanoparticles due to their unique properties has rapidly increased human exposure to numerous nanoparticles such as calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), calcium titanate (CaTiO3), and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticles almost in all aspect of daily life. However, very limited data are available on the efect of these nanoparticles on genomic DNA integrity and infammation induction in the gastric tissues. Hence, this study estimated the efect of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3, or/and Y2O3 nanoparticles multiple oral administration on the genomic DNA damage and infammation induction in the mice gastric tissues. A suspension containing 50 mg/kg b.w of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3, or Y2O3 nanoparticles were given orally to male mice separately or together simultaneously three times a week for two consecutive weeks. Multiple oral administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles led to signifcant elevations in DNA damage induction and ROS generation, in contrast to the non-signifcant changes observed in the level of induced DNA damage and generated ROS after administration of CaTiO3 or Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or in combination with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. Oral administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles alone also highly upregulated INOS and COX-2 genes expression and extremely decreased eNOS gene expression. However, high elevations in eNOS gene expression were detected after multiple administration of CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or together simultaneously with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. Meanwhile, non-remarkable changes were noticed in the expression level of INOS and COX-2 genes after administration of CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or simultaneously together with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. In conclusion: genomic DNA damage and infammation induced by administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles alone at a dose of 50 mg/kg were mitigated by about 100% when CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles were coadministered with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles until they reached the negative control level through altering the expression level of eNOS, INOS and COX-2 genes and scavenging gastric ROS. Therefore, further studies are recommended to investigate the toxicological properties of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles and possibility of using CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles to mitigate genotoxicity and infammation induction by Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles.
Alleviation of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles induced genotoxicity and gastritis by coadministration of calcium titanate and yttrium oxide nanoparticles in mice
(Nature Publishing Group, 2023-12) Mohamed, Hanan R. H; Elbasiouni, Salma H; Farouk, Ahmed H; Nasif, KirollsA; Nasraldin, Karima; Safwat, Gehan
Diverse applications of nanoparticles due to their unique properties has rapidly increased human exposure to numerous nanoparticles such as calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), calcium titanate (CaTiO3), and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticles almost in all aspect of daily life. However, very limited data are available on the effect of these nanoparticles on genomic DNA integrity and inflammation induction in the gastric tissues. Hence, this study estimated the effect of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3, or/and Y2O3 nanoparticles multiple oral administration on the genomic DNA damage and inflammation induction in the mice gastric tissues. A suspension containing 50 mg/kg b.w of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3, or Y2O3 nanoparticles were given orally to male mice separately or together simultaneously three times a week for two consecutive weeks. Multiple oral administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles led to significant elevations in DNA damage induction and ROS generation, in contrast to the non-significant changes observed in the level of induced DNA damage and generated ROS after administration of CaTiO3 or Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or in combination with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. Oral administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles alone also highly upregulated INOS and COX-2 genes expression and extremely decreased eNOS gene expression. However, high elevations in eNOS gene expression were detected after multiple administration of CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or together simultaneously with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. Meanwhile, non-remarkable changes were noticed in the expression level of INOS and COX-2 genes after administration of CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles separately or simultaneously together with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. In conclusion: genomic DNA damage and inflammation induced by administration of Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles alone at a dose of 50 mg/kg were mitigated by about 100% when CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles were coadministered with Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles until they reached the negative control level through altering the expression level of eNOS, INOS and COX-2 genes and scavenging gastric ROS. Therefore, further studies are recommended to investigate the toxicological properties of Ca(OH)2, CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles and possibility of using CaTiO3 and Y2O3 nanoparticles to mitigate genotoxicity and inflammation induction by Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles.
Aloe vera gel as a stimulant for mesenchymal stem cells differentiation and a natural therapy for radiation induced liver damage
(Oxford University Press, 2022-08-10) Farid, Alyaa; Haridyy, Hebatallah; Ashraf, Salma; Ahmed, Selim; Safwat, Gehan
Aloe vera is a medical plant that has been used, traditionally, in treatment of several dermal disorders. In addition to its role as an anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic agent. Aloe vera gel extract contains several compounds like minerals, enzymes, hormones and carbohydrates. Therefore, Aloe vera as well as its bioactive constituents have been studied to determine its intriguing potential roles in medicinal science. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are biologically active precursor cells that can self-renew and develop into a variety of cell types. Plant extracts have been used, in vitro, to enhance the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of lyophilized Aloe vera gel together with bone marrow (BM)-MSCs transplantation against radiation induced liver damage (RILD) in X-ray irradiated Sprague dawley male rats. By determining the oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in liver tissue homogenate, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lyophilized Aloe vera gel were investigated. The degree of liver damage and NF-κB expression were determined using histological and immunohistochemical staining techniques. The results showed that treatment of irradiated rats with lyophilized Aloe vera gel and MSCs transplantation has led to an improvement in liver function and a decrease in fibrotic markers, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokines; as well as, a reduction in the pathological alterations in the rats’ liver and a reduced NF-κB activation. Lyophilized Aloe vera gel provided two important functions; where it stimulated the differentiation of transplanted MSCs and alleviated the radiation induced damages in liver. Aloe vera’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have enhanced liver function, as well as, creating a favorable environment for MSCs development in the liver. MSCs, in combination with lyophilized Aloe vera gel, hold promise for regenerative medicine; where, it has a considerable impact on MSCs differentiation.
Anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects of melatonin protect spleen of whole body gamma-irradiated male Sprague-dawleny rats
(IJRR-IRANIAN JOURNAL RADIATION RES, NO 29, 4TH FL, CHAMRAN MEDICAL BLDG, PARVANEH ST, ALE-AHMAD HWY, TEHRAN, 00000, IRAN, 2021-10) Farid, A; El-Dewak, M; Safwat, Gehan; Diab, Ayman
Background: Spleen is the largest lymphatic organ that is seriously affected during irradiation. Radiation exposure reduces both of spleen size and weight; that in turn decreases the numbers of immune cells. Melatonin is an effective free radicals scavenger. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin on both blood and spleen of whole body gamma-irradiated male Sprague dawley rats. Materials and methods: Animals were intraperitoneally injected with 100 mg/kg melatonin prior to radiation exposure by 30 minutes. Experimental groups were group I: control rats, group II: irradiated rats, group III: melatonin administrated unirradiated rats and group IV: melatonin administrated irradiated rats. Blood and spleen samples were collected 24 hours post irradiation for biochemical, immunological and blastogenesis measurements. Apoptosis, pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins of spleen cells were measured by flow cytometry techniques. Results: Melatonin significantly upregulated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT); and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA). It down regulated the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins (p53, Bax, caspase -3 and caspase-8) and up regulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in spleen cells; that in turn reduced the radiation-induced apoptosis. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-1 beta) were significantly reduced in group IV. Blastogenesis assay showed that melatonin protects PBMC and spleen B lymphocytes and stabilized their proliferation. Conclusion: Melatonin administration prior to whole body gamma-radiation successfully protected rat's spleen from the consequences of radiation exposure. This was due to its free radicle scavenger nature, its reduction of lipid peroxidation and its anti-apoptotic effects.
Anti-Cryptosporidium oocysts polyclonal antibodies for cryptosporidiosis diagnosis and protection
(SpringerOpen, 2023-11) Farid, Alyaa; Aiad, Silvia; Safwat, Gehan
Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal infection that is triggered by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium spp. Crypto- sporidium oocysts can spread from one host to another either through direct contact with infected hosts’ faeces or through indirect means (consumption of contaminated water or food). Signifcant numbers of oocysts are pro- duced as a result of the rapid growth of the parasite within the infected hosts. For proper care of cryptosporidiosis, a laboratory diagnosis is necessary. Therefore, this study aimed to produce anti-Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) oocyst immunoglobulin (Ig)G polyclonal antibodies (pAbs). The produced pAbs were used in the detection of C. parvum oocysts antigens in stool and serum samples of infected calves. Moreover, pAbs were tested in protection of balb-c male mice from cryptosporidiosis infection. C. parvum oocysts were used in the preparation of antigens to be used in the immunization of New Zealand white rabbits. pAb was purifed by ammonium sulphate precipitation method, caprylic acid purifcation method and diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) anion exchange chromatographic method. Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (using prepared pAb) scored higher sensitivity (85% and 95% for serum and stool samples) than that (80%) of microscopic examination of stool samples. Moreover, pAb signif- cantly reduced the oocysts shedding, decreased infammatory cytokines and enhanced the loss in the body weight of protected animals. The prepared pAb succeeded in the diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis in calves with high sensitiv- ity either in the serum or stool samples. Our results indicated the usefulness of using the prepared pAb in protection against cryptosporidiosis.
Antibacterial and Anti-Fungal Biological Activities for Acrylonitrile, Acrylamide and 2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropane Sulphonic Acid Crosslinked Terpolymers
(MDPI, 10/30/2020) Farag, Reem K.; Atta, Ayman M.; Labena, Ahmed; AlHawari, Salma H.; Safwat, Gehan; Diab, Ayman A
There is a pressing demand to synthesize polymers that have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The aim of this study was to synthesize a crosslinked hydrophilic terpolymer with acrylamide, acrylonitrile, acrylic acid, acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulphonic acid and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a crosslinker. The chemical structure and thermal stability of the prepared cross-linked terpolymers were confirmed by spectroscopic and thermal analyses. Moreover, the swelling experiments were performed to investigate their swelling capacity. Furthermore, the efficiency of the synthesized cross-linked polymer gels was assessed as an antimicrobial agent against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungal strains. The synthesized polymers showed broad inhibition effect, with more antibacterial activity by the AM4 polymer sample containing high percentage of acrylonitrile monomer in the prepared terpolymers (4 mol ratio of acrylic acid: 1 mol ratio of acrylamide: 16 mole ratio of acrylonitrile against Gram negative bacterial strain), while sample M3 terpolymer (1 mol ratio of acrylamide: 1 mole ratio acrylonitrile: 3 mole ratio of acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulphonic acid) showed a promising anti-fungal activity.
Artificial Intelligence for Plant Genomics and Crop Improvement
(Academy of Scientific Rescarch and Technology National Information and Documentation Centre (NIDOC), 2022-04) Hatem, Yasmine; Hammad, Gehan; Safwat, Gehan
Currently, food scarcity has become a serious problem that the entire planet is facing, as populations are increasing promptly and it is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, leading to dramatic issues associated with supply as well as accessibility. There are various technologies that are being revolutionized in order to elevate the production of agriculture and food to fit the need and overcome challenges such as climate, water scarcity, diseases and pests. The understanding of plant genomics could lead to the discovery, cloning, and sequencing of genes responsible for tolerance to unfavorable environmental influences, and for the past few decades numerous techniques have surfaced for crop improvement including tissue culture transformation and mutagenesis. More Recently, artificial intelligence and machine learning are being integrated as an anticipating multidisciplinary approach for enhancing and improving the food and agriculture sector and this field is evolving exponentially. This review investigates the correlation of agriculture and food production with artificial intelligence as a promising approach for the determination of the plant genomics in order to improve and enhance issues of food security.
Assessment level for complex additives in the tissue culture media of Philodendron Red Emelard plants.
(Transstellar Journal Publications and Research Consultancy Private Limited (TJPRC), 2014) Safwat, Gehan; El-Sayed, Y; Hammad, G; El-Sharabasy, SF; Amin, A
Abstract : Philodendron Red Emerald is a plant that is of great interest due to its indoor and outdoor decorative value this research aims at the assessment of the effect of two complex additives (Malt and Yeast extracts) for the shooting and rooting stage of Philodendron Red Emerald. Shoot clusters of the explants were cultured on MS (Murashige and Skoog), supplement with different concentrations (250 mg/l-1, 500 mg/l-1 and 1000 mg/l-1) of Yeast and Malt extracts and compared with their controls. Results revealed utmost growth and leaf proliferation at concentration 250 mg/l-1 of Yeast extract. Malt extracts exhibited more profound efficiency in root development. Both extracts showed no apparent effect on the quantity of chlorophyll.
Assessment of irradiated TiO2nanoparticles on the growth and nanoparticles on the growth and nutritional components of broccoli
(EAP Academic press, 09/02/2021) ALY, Amina A; MARAEI, Rabab W; LOUIS, Yousef A; Safwat, Gehan
Broccoli is highly tremendously as it is enriched with healthy promoting phytochemicals. This researchwas undertaken to study the feedback of broccoli to different concentrations of un-irradiated and irradiated (50 kGy of gamma rays) titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs). Un-irradiated and irradiated titanium dioxide characterization was accomplished by FT-IR, XRD, TGA, SEM and TEM. Foliar spray of titanium dioxide was applied to the broccoli in regards to the results of the characterizations. The growth traits; plant height, leaves No. per plant as well as stem diameter of plants and physical quality of heads were measured. Also, nutritional components of heads were determined. The results detailed that vegetative growth and physical quality of heads positively responded to foliar application of titanium dioxide compared to those obtained from control and 50 ppm from irradiated titanium dioxide (ITiO2NPs) gave the highest values of all traits. Regarding to nutritional components of heads, the efficiency of photosynthesis increased by using TiO2 (un-irradiated and irradiated) specially, 50 ppm ITiO2NPs. Application of Ti significantly increased the osmolytes concentrations such as proline, total free amino acids and soluble sugars as well as the extracts of heads sprayed with TiO2NPs concentrations displayed a prospective DPPH free radical scavenging action. Likewise, absorption of other nutrient elements and amino acids pool increased by spraying TiO2NPs. It was found that there are several phytochemical constituents identified by GC-MS that contribute to the biological activity of the methanol extract of broccoli heads that were affected by the use of TiO2NPs. It is clear that from above results, the using of ITiO2NPs specially; 50 ppm stimulated growth, resulting in improved quality of broccoli heads which is ultimately reflected in productivity.
Assessment of Lavender, Frankincense and Peppermint Oils Trans-dermal Nano Spray Formulation Effect on Wound Healing Activity in Rat Model
(National Information and Documentation Centre, 2024-11) Safwat, Gehan; El-Gendy, Zeinab A; Ramadan, Lamiaa M; Fathy, Hager N; Ezzo, Omaima H; Rostom, Merit; Fouda, Fayez K
Burns are one of the leading causes of mortality and high morbidity, particularly when combined with bacterial infection that prevents wound closure and delays the healing process. Consequently, there is a huge demand for pharmaceutical techniques to assist in resolving this problem. Essential oils are becoming more popular as organic substitutes for synthetic medications. However, the usage of essential oils is limited due to their poor qualities but they can be utilized by encapsulating them in Nano emulsions. The aim of this study is to investigate the Nano spray formulation containing a combination of lavender, frankincense and peppermint oils for burn healing potential using rat-burn induced model. The effect of Nano emulsions of 2% lavender, 10% peppermint, 5% frankincense, the combination of the three oils in half of their concentrations and the combination in the same concentrations on the fibrotic marker, oxidative stress markers, and histopathological was examined. Our results support the use of essential oils in the development of pharmaceuticals for wounds management and/or inflammatory-related diseases. A trans-dermal Nano spray formulation containing a combination of lavender, frankincense and peppermint oils exhibit considerable wound healing activity.
Assessment of Vinca rosea (Apocynaceae) Potentiality for Remediation of Crude Petroleum Oil Pollution of Soil
(MDPI AG, 2023-06) Hegazy, Ahmad K.; Hussein, Zahra S; Mohamed, Nermen H; Safwat, Gehan; El-Dessouky, Mohamed A; Imbrea, Ilinca; Imbrea, Florin
Petroleum oil pollution is a worldwide problem that results from the continuous explo- ration, production, and consumption of oil and its products. Petroleum hydrocarbons are produced as a result of natural or anthropogenic practices, and their common source is anthropogenic activities, which impose adverse effects on the ecosystem’s nonliving and living components including humans. Phytoremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-polluted soils is an evolving, low-cost, and effective alternative technology to most traditional remediation methods. The objective of this study is to evaluate the phytoremediation potentiality of Vinca rosea for crude oil-contaminated soil by under- standing its properties and involvement in the enhanced degradation of crude oil. The remediation potentiality was determined by evaluating the total petroleum hydrocarbon degradation percentage (TPH%) and changes in the molecular type composition of saturated and aromatic hydrocarbon fractions. TPH% was estimated gravimetrically, and changes in the molecular type composition of saturated and aromatic fractions were measured using gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. Sulfur concentration was measured using X-ray fluorescence. Cadmium and lead quantification was measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES). The results revealed that V. rosea enhanced total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) degradation and altered the molecular composition of the crude oil. The saturated hydrocar- bons increased and the aromatic hydrocarbons decreased. The saturated hydrocarbon fraction in the crude oil showed a wider spectrum of n-paraffin peaks than the oil extracted from unplanted and V. rosea-planted soils. Polyaromatic hydrocarbon degradation was enhanced in the presence of V. rosea, which was reflected in the increase of monoaromatic and diaromatic constituents. This was parallel to the increased sulfur levels in planted soil. The determination of sulfur and heavy metal content in plant organs indicated that V. rosea can extract and accumulate high amounts from polluted soils. The ability of V. rosea to degrade TPH and alter the composition of crude petroleum oil by decreasing the toxicity of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in soil, as well as its capability to absorb and accumulate sulfur and heavy metals, supports the use of plant species for the phytoremediation of crude oil-polluted sites.
Associations Between Serum Soluble Toll-like Receptors 4 and 9 and Breast Cancer in Egyptian Patients
(SAGE Publications Ltd, 2023-09) Moaz, Inas; Fouad, Fayrouz A; Elmasry, Hossam; Tarek, Gehad; Elzoheiry, Aya; Elgamal, Manar; Ibrahim, Randa; Hisham, Yasmin; Safwat, Gehan; Kamel, Mahmoud M; El-Batal, Heba M; Fouda, Merhan
Background: Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in regulation of immune cells and are vital in tumorigenesis due to its crucial role in inflammatory microenvironment regulation, as they promote the synthesis and release of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Toll-like receptors 4 and TLRs 9 were found to be highly expressed in breast cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the soluble toll-like receptors 4 and 9 (sTLR4 and sTLR9) as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer and their association with the clinicopathological parameters of breast cancer. Patients and Method: In this retrospective case-control study, 186 female subjects were recruited and divided into three groups, Group I: 62 healthy control, Group II: 62 subjects diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer, and Group III: 62 subjects diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was used to quantify the levels of sTLR4 and sTLR9 in serum. Results: Both non-metastatic and metastatic groups showed significant higher levels of both serum sTLR4 and sTLR9 expression compared to healthy controls. Only sTLR9 was significantly increased among metastatic patients compared to non-metastatic group. Serum levels of sTLR9 and sTLR4 were still significantly associated with breast cancer in a multiple logistic regression model (P = <.001). ROC curves showed that both sTLR4 and sTLR9 can be a significant parameter to discriminate between normal females and breast cancer patients. Conclusion: Soluble toll-like receptors 4 and sTLR9 are over-expressed in patients with metastatic and non-metastatic BC than in benign cases. The expression levels of sTLR4 and TLR9 have clinical interest as indicators of tumor aggressiveness suggested to be prognostic biomarkers. Toll-like receptors may represent therapeutic targets in breast cancer.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Physalis peruviana L.
(Springer, 3/20/2019) Megahed, Basma M. H.; Gamal, Mohammed; Safwat, Gehan; Mohamed, Heba I.; El-Beltagi, Hossam S.
Physalis peruviana L. belongs to the family Solanaceae and is considered as plant used for treating various diseases. The protective mechanism of Physalis consists of the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to enhance the antioxidant system in the human body. The ethanolic extract of Physalis peruviana fruits contains valuable and active compounds such as carotenoids, phenols, flavonoids, tannin, alkaloids, vitamins C, B3 and B6. Therefore, Physalis peruviana extract has antioxidant and antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Gram-positive Bacillus cereus demonstrated higher susceptibility than gram-negative Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas typhimureum. Also, the extract showed positive effect on the fungus used (Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans). In addition, high concentrations of Physalis peruviana ethanolic extract (800 µg/ml) exhibited significant anticancer activity against lung (A549) cells but slight effect against colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells.
Chitosan biopolymer based nanocomposite hydrogels for removal of methylene blue dye
(Springer Nature, 2020-05) Mahmoud, Ghada A.; Sayed, Asmaa; Thabit, Maryan; Safwat, Gehan
Nanocomposite hydrogels were synthesized by γ-radiation-induced copolymerization and crosslinking of Chitosan biopolymer (CS), acrylic acid (AAc) and TiO2 nanoparticles (CS-PAAc/TiO2). The structure, morphology, and properties of the nanocomposites were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-Ray Difraction, Scanning elec- tron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis techniques. The nanocomposites hydrogel was used for the removal of methylene blue dye (MB) from wastewater. It was found that the presence of TiO2 in the copolymeric matrix enhances the adsorption by increasing the physical interaction between the dye molecules and the adsorbent surface. The removal percentage increases with the increase in pH of the medium of all investigated samples and the maximum value is obtained at the solution pH is 10. The maximum adsorbent dosage for CS-PAAc/ TiO2 nanocomposites is 0.20 g and for CS-PAAc hydrogel is 0.15 g per liter of the adsorbate. This study revealed that the loading of TiO2 nanoparticles into the polymeric matrix of CS-PAAc does a remarkable increase in the removal parentage of MB dye from its aqueous solution.
Co-treatment with grape seed extract and mesenchymal stem cells in vivo regenerated beta cells of islets of Langerhans in pancreas of type I-induced diabetic rats
(BioMed Central Ltd., 2022-12) Farid, Alyaa; Haridyy, Hebatallah; Ashraf, Salma; Ahmed, Selim; Safwat, Gehan
Background: Nowadays, diabetes mellitus is known as a silent killer because individual is not aware that he has the disease till the development of its complications. Many researchers have studied the use of stem cells in treatment of both types of diabetes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold a lot of potential for regenerative therapy. MSCs migrate and home at the damaged site, where they can aid in the repair of damaged tissues and restoring their function. Oxi- dative stress and infammation represent a huge obstacle during MSCs transplantation. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the role of grape seed extract (GSE) administration during MSCs transplantation in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type I diabetes. Furthermore, testing some of GSE components [procyanidins(P)-B1 and P-C1] in con- junction with MSCs, in vivo, was performed to determine if one of them was more efective in relieving the measured attributes of diabetes more than the whole GSE. Methods: Firstly, GSE was prepared from the seeds of Muscat of Alexandria grapes and characterized to identify its phytochemical components. Experimental design was composed of control group I, untreated diabetic group II, GSE (300 mg/kg)-treated diabetic group III, MSCs (2× 106 cells/rat)-treated diabetic group IV and GSE (300 mg/kg)/MSCs (2× 106 cells/rat)-treated diabetic group V. Type I diabetes was induced in rats by intravenous injection with 65 mg/kg of STZ. Treatment started when fasting blood glucose (FBG) level was more than 200 mg/dl; GSE oral administration started in the same day after MSCs intravenous injection and continued daily for 30 consecutive days. Results: The results showed that GSE/MSCs therapy in type I-induced diabetic rats has dramatically managed homeostasis of glucose and insulin secretion; together with, improvement in levels of infammatory markers and oxidative stress. Conclusion: Co-treatment with GSE and MSCs in vivo regenerates beta cells in type I-induced diabetic rats.
Comparative Study among the Germination and Propagation of Different Capsicum Annuum Cultivars using Tissue Culture Techniques
(Nature and Science, 2011) M. Akram, Omar; Gaafar, Mona; Safwat, Gehan; Diab, Ayman A
Morphogenetic potential of seed and explants culturing of three capsicum annuum L. ( pepper) genotypes (Gedion, Moaz, and Mohand) were studied to evaluate different plant regeneration protocols and develop a reliable system for plant propagation. An efficient procedure of in vitro plant regeneration through seed and direct shoot bud induction was tested from different explants of capsicum annuum L. Several methods of media preparation with combinations of growth regulators were used, and 2 combinations were found ideal for seed propagation with 7 mg/l 2,4-D or 5 mg/l IBA respectively. Additionally, it was indicated that seed dormancy can effect its propagation also the positioning of the seed or explants onto the media. Propagated seeds demonstrated shoot and root elongation. Regeneration of the explants did not show satisfactory results because most of the explants did not develop into normal shoots but instead developed into calli after 15 days of culture. HPLC Analysis of cultivars demonstrated that fructose suger percentage was higher in the three different types of pepper, followed by sucrose then glucose. Also the HPLC analysis drew out that media supplemented with 7mg/l 2,4-D generally had the highest effect of capsaicinoid sugar content in the following order i.e. cultivar Mohand was showed high significant in sugar content of capsaicinoid followed by Gedion and Moaz. Application of DPPH method illustrated that extracts obtained from Moaz leaves characterized the most proactive antioxidant (vitamin C) properties than Gedion and Mohand. A were noticed. The results of these studies indicated that antioxidant activities of the extract prepared from pepper leaves depended mainly on phenolic compounds. [Omar M. Akram, Mona Gaafar, Gehan Safwat and Ayman Diab. Comparative Study among the Germination and Propagation of Different Capsicum Annuum Cultivars using Tissue Culture Techniques
Cytokines and autoantibodies profile during systemic lupus erythematosus and psoriasis diseases in Egypt
(Elsevier, 2022-04) Farid, Alyaa; Hany, Ali; Khaled, Ahmed; Safwat, Gehan
Objective: Cytokine, a small secreted protein, is secreted from one cell types to exert a particular effect on other cell types and/or on itself. Cytokines are characterized by their redundancy in the function; they are secreted in a cascade and can work synergistically and/or antagonistically. Cytokines have an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis (PS). Due to their crucial roles in the immune cells’ development, differentiation and regulation; any dysregulation in their production and/or action can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases. The study population was composed of healthy control volunteers, SLE patients that were diagnosed as lupus nephritis (LN) patients or non-LN patients with developed atherosclerosis (As), and psoriasis patients that were diagnosed as psoriasis patients without arthritis (Ps) or psoriatic arthritis patients (PsA). Methods: The current study aimed to measure and compare the levels of T helper (h)1, Th2 and Th17 cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17, -1β, -12, -10, -4, -2, -23, -18, -34 and -6) among Egyptian SLE and Ps patients. In addition, the pathway and type of Th cells involved in autoimmune-mediated tissue injury was examined. Detection of autoantibodies (ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-sm, anti-histone, anti- ribosomal, APLA and anti-Ro/SSA) was performed to find if there is a relation between disease development and their presence. Results: Detection of autoantibodies and complement proteins were beneficial in the diagnosis of SLE and psoriasis. ANA and anti-dsDNA autoantibodies were a good marker for the diagnosis of SLE and monitoring disease activity; however, other autoantibodies like APLA, anti-sm, anti-histone and anti-ribosomal can be used to indicate the disease activity. Conclusions: Cytokines can be used to determine the disease activity and autoimmune-mediated tissue injured in both SLE and psoriasis. Where, IL-17 recorded the highest level in LN and PsA patients; while the highest levels of IL-34, -23 and -6 were recorded in PsA patients and IL-1β was a characteristic cytokine in As patients.
Desert date seed extract‑loaded chitosan nanoparticles ameliorate hyperglycemia and insulin defciency through the reduction in oxidative stress and infammation
(Nature Publishing Group, 2024-03) Farid, Alyaa; Ahmed, Alaa; Alaa, Olaya; Safwat, Gehan
Plants represents a huge source of bioactive materials that have been used since the old times in the treatment of many diseases. Balanites aegyptiaca, known as desert date, has been used in treatment of fever, diabetes and bacterial infection. Desert dates contains a hard seed that resembles 50–60% of the fruit. The seed extract contains many fatty acids, amino acids and other bioactive materials that gives the extract its antioxidant and anti-infammatory properties. The study aimed to use Balanites seed extract-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SeEx-C NPs) for the treatment of streptozotocin (STZ)induced diabetes in male Sprague Dawley rats. Animals were divided into two main divisions (healthy and diabetic rats). Each division contained seven groups (5 rats/group): control untreated group I, SeEx treated group II and group III (10 and 20 mg/kg b.w., respectively), C NPs treated group IV and group V (10 and 20 mg/kg b.w., respectively) and SeEx-C NPs treated group VI and group VII (10 and 20 mg/kg b.w., respectively). The therapeutical efects of SeEx-C NPs were evaluated through biochemical and immunological assessments in rats’ pancreases. The results showed that SeEx-C NPs (10 and 20 mg/kg b.w.) reduced the oxidative stress and infammation in rats’ pancreases allowing the islets neogenesis. The loading of SeEx on C NPs allowed the delivery of fatty acids (oleic, lauric and myristic acid), amino acids (lysine, leucine, phenylalanine and valine) and minerals to pancreatic beta-cells in a sustainable manner. SeEx-C NPs administration successfully increased insulin secretion, allowed pancreatic islets neogenesis and reduced oxidative stress and infammation.
DUAL REPLACEMENT OF LNC-MEG3 AND MIR-155 TRIGGER TUMOR SUPPRESSIVE ACTIVITY IN MULTIPLE MYELOMA
(Elsevier, 08/01/2020) El-Khazragy, Nashwa; Safwat, Gehan; Emad, Passant
an urgent need. Recent evidence demonstrated a definitive tumor suppressor role of Long non-coding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) and miR-155 in Multiple Myeloma (MM), however, their biological role remains unclear. It has been demonstrated that both markers are downregulated in MM patients compared to healthy. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the biological effect of double hit replacement for both lnc-MEG3 and miR-155 in MM cells, and compare it with the effect of each biomarker separately. Methods: MM cells were transfected by MEG3 overexpression plasmid and miR-155 mimic, the miR-155 and lnc-MEG3 expression levels were measured by qRT-PCR. MTT assay was performed to assess the cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis were monitored by Flow cytometry analysis. Results: lnc-MEG3 and miR-155 were downregulated in MM cells. In- vitro overexpression of lnc-MEG3 and miR-155 suppresses cell proliferation, induce cell cycle arrest, and promote apoptosis, the effect was more prominent with upregulation of both markers than with each individual biomarker. Conclusion: the present data demonstrate that dual overexpression of lnc-MEG3 and miR-155 elicits a powerful dual tumor suppressor effect in MM cells, in spite they have different signaling pathways, thus providing a promising therapeutic strategy in MM patients.