Faculty of Biotechnology Research Paper

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Decoding Parkinson's disease: A multifaceted approach to diagnosis and biomarker discovery
(Elsevier, 2024-01-01) Mahmoud Ragab; Al-Hassan Soliman; Abd El-Rahman Shaltout; Toka Aziz El-Ramly; Mariam Morris; Omar Abdelnasser A. Mohamed; Roqaia Ibrahim; Duaa Dakhlaah
We all get older, and our brains get older, but only some of us get neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease (PD). Age, which is a dynamic process, is the largest risk factor for the development and progression of PD. Decreased dopaminergic activity, tangential Lewy body illnesses, and degenerative pathologies are predisposing factors leading to PD. Due to the significant clinical overlap across parkinsonian illnesses, the misdiagnosis rate is still high (16%-20%) even when the new diagnostic standards are correctly applied. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis militate against the therapeutic benefits of disease-modifying therapies. Thus, there is an urgent need to discover and develop precise and reliable PD biomarkers. Discovering accurate biomarkers for early diagnoses, such as prodromal diagnosis and preclinical diagnosis, is necessary for better clinical intervention and treatment at the onset of disease. Further, these reliable biomarkers can be used to evaluate the progression of PD disorder. In this book chapter, we will discuss current progress in the development of PD biomarkers from various perspectives including imaging biomarkers, clinical, genetic, RNA-based biomarkers, biochemical, metabolomics, artificial intelligence, deep learning, and machine learning aspects that play critical roles as diagnostic biomarkers for PD. © 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved
THE EFFICACY OF DIZYGTHECA KERCHOVEANA AND AZADIRACHTA INDICA EXTRACTS AS A MOLLUSCICIDAL AND SCHISTOSOMICIDAL AGENTS IN MICE
(Egyptian Society of Parasitology, 2020-04-02) AZZA M. EL AMIR; ALYAA A. FARID; MARIAM MOHAMED; WAAD RAMADAN; AYMAN ALI DIAB
In the present study, the effect of methanol extracts of two plant species, Dizygotheca kerchoveana (Maliaceae) and Azadirachta indica (Araliacaea) were tested on the activity of Schistosoma mansoni worms. Efficacy of two plant extracts compared with praziquantel (PZQ) was evaluated in vivo. The results showed that reduction was 90% in case of PZQ treatment compared to 76.91%, 62.64% after treatment with D. kerchoveana and A. indica extracts respectively. PZQ recorded highest significant number of dead ova into oogram pattern (80±1.80) at 5wk PI. But, good results were obtained by of D. kerchoveana and A. indica methanol extracts (65.00±4.05 & 60.60±3.60, respectively) at 3wk PI. Efficacy of the plant extract showed a significant (P<0.01) reduction in ova to 91-96.20% in intestine, 83.36-91.24% in hepatic tissues as compared to PZQ (10-66.50% & 1.14-80.64%, respectively). Reduction in hepatic granuloma diameter at 3wk PI was significantly (P<0.01) reduced in group treated with D. kerchoveana (40.43% & 38.30%) as compared to PZQ (8.70% & 11.7%). Sera were assayed by ELISA for IgM & IgG levels. Highly significant (P<0.01) increase in Igs levels in all infected treated or untreated groups was at 3wk & 5wk PI as compared to normal mice.
Navigating the COVID-19 Therapeutic Landscape: Unveiling Novel Perspectives on FDA-Approved Medications, Vaccination Targets, and Emerging Novel Strategies
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024-11-25) Reham F. Barghash; Donato Gemmati; Ahmed M. Awad; Mustafa M. M. Elbakry; Veronica Tisato; Kareem Awad; Ajay Vikram Singh
Amidst the ongoing global challenge of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the quest for effective antiviral medications remains paramount. This comprehensive review delves into the dynamic landscape of FDA-approved medications repurposed for COVID-19, categorized as antiviral and non-antiviral agents. Our focus extends beyond conventional narratives, encompassing vaccination targets, repurposing efficacy, clinical studies, innovative treatment modalities, and future outlooks. Unveiling the genomic intricacies of SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the WHO-designated Omicron variant, we explore diverse antiviral categories such as fusion inhibitors, protease inhibitors, transcription inhibitors, neuraminidase inhibitors, nucleoside reverse transcriptase, and non-antiviral interventions like importin α/β1-mediated nuclear import inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies, and convalescent plasma. Notably, Molnupiravir emerges as a pivotal player, now licensed in the UK. This review offers a fresh perspective on the historical evolution of COVID-19 therapeutics, from repurposing endeavors to the latest developments in oral anti-SARS-CoV-2 treatments, ushering in a new era of hope in the battle against the pandemic.
Influence of Vitamin D Status and the VDR Gene Polymorphism on COVID-19 Susceptibility and Outcome
(Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2024-11-26) Amal Ahmed Mohamed; Nivin Naeem Baiomy; Abeer M. Rawy; Mona M.F. Ghanem; Soha M. Abd El Salam; Karima Nasraldin; Mohamed Ramadan Ezz Al Arab; Hussein H. Samir; Omar Mohamoud Azzam; Nashwa M. Muharram; Naglaa Elsalway; Ahmed Y. Elamir; Sarya Swed; Wael Hafez; Luis A. Salas-Matta; Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales; D. Katterine Bonilla-Aldana; Hashem Abu Serhan; Sanjit Sah; Rachana Mehta
Insufficient vitamin D levels in the bloodstream, together with the presence of specific genetic variations known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the VDR gene, have consistently been linked to a higher likelihood of contracting and experiencing more severe forms of various diseases such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to explore the potential relationship between vitamin D levels, Bsml and FoKI polymorphisms, and COVID-19 infection outcomes. A case-control study was conducted with COVID-19 patients and a control group of non-COVID-19 patients (n = 107 each). The associations between vitamin D status, polymorphisms, and COVID susceptibility were investigated. Participants diagnosed with COVID-19 exhibited an average age of 48.84 ± 12.18, while non-COVID-19 patients had an average age of 46.82 ± 9.903. Disease severity, assessed by the CT severity score, showed a negative correlation with the Vitamin D levels. Among participants with COVID-19, the mean level of vitamin D was 35.25 ± 9.40 ng/mL while non-COVID-19 patients showed 38.85 ± 9.40 ng/mL with a significant difference (p = 0.004**) although among COVID-19 cases, 87 (81.3%) individuals had sufficient vitamin D levels and non-severity of disease was more common i.e. 54 (50.5%) among the COVID patients who had sufficient level of Vitamin D. The study found no significant association between Vitamin D levels and rs1544410 Bsml polymorphism (p = 0.429). However, it is important to highlight a weak significant association observed between with Fok1 polymorphism (p = 0.049). These findings underscore the weak influence of genetic factors, particularly VDR Fok1 gene variants, in shaping an individual’s susceptibility to COVID-19. A significant difference in vitamin D status was observed between the COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups and lower level was observed in the COVID-19 infected patients. Furthermore, a weak significant association was observed between Fok1 rs2228570 genotype and COVID-19 susceptibility. Larger sample sizes are required to comprehensively understand the association between different genotypes and COVID-19 outcomes.
Emerging roles of hydrogen sulfide-metabolizing enzymes in cancer
(Taylor and Francis, 2024-12-02) Alyaa Dawoud; Rana A. Youness; Kareem Elsayed; Heba Nafae; Hoda Allam; Hager Adel Saad; Carole Bourquin; Csaba Szabo; Reham Abdel-Kader; Mohamed Z. Gad
Gasotransmitters play crucial roles in regulating many physiological processes, including cell signaling, cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, mitochondrial function, antioxidant production, nervous system functions and immune responses. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the most recently identified gasotransmitter, which is characterized by its biphasic behavior. At low concentrations, H2S promotes cellular bioenergetics, whereas at high concentrations, it can exert cytotoxic effects. Cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS), cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST), and cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase 2 (CARS2) are pivotal players in H2S biosynthesis in mammalian cells and tissues. The focus of this review is the regulation of the various pathways involved in H2S metabolism in various forms of cancer. Key enzymes in this process include the sulfide oxidation unit (SOU), which includes sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), human ethylmalonic encephalopathy protein 1 (hETHE1), rhodanese, sulfite oxidase (SUOX/SO), and cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) enzymes. Furthermore, the potential role of H2S methylation processes mediated by thiol S-methyltransferase (TMT) and thioether S-methyltransferase (TEMT) is outlined in cancer biology, with potential opportunities for targeting them for clinical translation. In order to understand the role of H2S in oncogenesis and tumor progression, one must appreciate the intricate interplay between H2S-synthesizing and H2S-catabolizing enzymes.
Prognostic impact of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in Egyptian breast cancer patients
(SAGE Publications Inc, 2024-11-12) Fayrouz A Fouad1,2 , Mohamed A Khali3 , Inas Moaz4, Hossam Elmasry1 , Nada Gheta5, Asala Abdeen5, Mariam Tantawi5, Ganna Elkholy5, Shaimaa Rihan6, Mahmoud M Kamel3 , Ayman EL-Meghawry EL-Kenawy7, Youssef AS Abdel-Moneim8 and Abdallah M Gameel; Fayrouz A Fouad; Mohamed A Khali; Inas Moaz; Hossam Elmasry; Nada Gheta; Asala Abdeen; Mariam Tantawi; Ganna Elkholy; Shaimaa Rihan; Mahmoud M Kamel; Ayman EL-Meghawry EL-Kenawy; Youssef AS Abdel-Moneim; Abdallah M Gameel
This study aims to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic relevance of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as biomarkers for breast cancer, as well as their association with clinicopathological factors. Breast cancer is a leading contributor to cancerrelated deaths among women worldwide. The discovery of biomarkers is crucial for early diagnosis, outcome prediction, and effective treatment. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a significant role in various physiological and pathological activities, including development, tissue repair, inflammation, cancer spread, and metastasis. While the prognostic significance of MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels in breast cancer has been studied, the findings remain inconclusive. Participants were divided into three groups, with each group consisting of 62 individuals: Group I comprised healthy controls, Group II consisted of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients (stage I-III), and Group III included patients with metastatic breast cancer. Levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were evaluated in these groups using the ELISA method. An evident increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels was noted when comparing the control group with both the breast cancer and metastatic groups. Furthermore, a notable correlation was identified between serum MMP-9 levels and the pathological diagnosis of breast cancer (P<0.001) as well as tumor size (P<0.01). MMP-2 and MMP-9 have emerged as promising biomarkers for breast cancer, with MMP-9 specifically associated with disease prognosis. Continued investigation into the anti-tumor mechanisms of MMPs may yield significant advancements in the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for the management of breast cancer.
Retinoic acid inhibition of cell proliferation via activation of CDKN1B signaling in the forebrain and spinal cord during mouse embryonic development
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2024-12-03) Ahmed Said; Amira S. AbdElkhalek; Mariam Sherief; Lydia Amir; Maysem Samy; Mariam S. Nabil; Gehan Safwat; Ayman A. Diab; Karima Nasraldin
Background: The active metabolite of vitamin A (retinol) is retinoic acid (RA). RA is essential for developing several organs as a signaling molecule that is tightly regulated during embryogenesis. We explored the teratogenic effects of RA on forebrain and spinal cord development modified by cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B), as the mechanism underlying RA's teratogenic impacts requires further investigation. The study involved four groups of pregnant mice: the negative control group, the positive control group treated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) diluted in sunflower oil, the RA-treated group receiving a low dosage (5 mg/kg), and the RA-treated group receiving a high dosage (10 mg/kg). The treatment groups received daily intraperitoneal RA dissolved in DMSO and diluted with sunflower oil on gestational days 10.5, 11.5, and 12.5. On day 13.5 of pregnancy, the pregnant mice were euthanized by cervical dislocation, and immunohistochemical analyses of brain and spinal cord tissues were performed. Results: Morphologically, we observed a decrease in the number of implantation sites and the presence of hematomas in several uterus areas in the high-dose RA (10 mg/kg) group. Additionally, RA was shown to cause adverse changes in uterine weight and length. RA treatment indicated elevated levels of CDKN1B expression in spinal cord development, the diencephalon, and the telencephalon. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that by activating CDKN1B as an RA target gene for cell cycle arrest, an excess of RA during brain development in mouse embryos can induce cell undifferentiation during development.
Using MaxEnt modeling to analyze climate change impacts on Pseudomonas syringae van Hall, 1904 distribution on the global scale
(Elsevier B.V, 2024-12-07) Sameh M.H. Khalaf; Monerah S.M. Alqahtani; Mohamed R.M. Ali; Ibrahim T. I. Abdelalim; Mohamed S. Hodhod
Pseudomonas syringae is a pathogenic bacterium that poses a significant threat to global agriculture, necessitating a deeper understanding of its ecological dynamics in the context of global warming. This study investigates the current and projected future distribution of P. syringae, focusing on the climatic factors that influence its spread. To achieve this, we employed Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze species occurrence records alongside relevant climate data. The MaxEnt model was calibrated using 75 % of the occurrence data, with the remaining 25 % reserved for validation. The model’s performance was meticulously assessed utilizing the area under the curve (AUC) and true skill statistics (TSS), resulting in an AUC score of 0.92, indicating excellent predictive capability. Our analysis identified key climatic parameters—temperature, precipitation, and humidity—that significantly affect the presence of P. syringae. Notably, our findings project an expansion of the bacterium’s geographic range in the coming decades, with optimal conditions shifting toward the poles. This research underscores the significant influence of climate change on the distribution of P. syringae and provides valuable insights for developing targeted disease management strategies. The anticipated increase in bacterial infections in crops highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate these effects.
Metabolic modelling links Warburg effect to collagen formation, angiogenesis and inflammation in the tumoral stroma
(Public Library of Science, 2024-12-03) Maxime MahoutI; Laurent Schwartz; Romain Attal; Ashraf Bakkar; Sabine Peres
Cancer cells are known to express the Warburg effect—increased glycolysis and formation of lactic acid even in the presence of oxygen—as well as high glutamine uptake. In tumors, cancer cells are surrounded by collagen, immune cells, and neoangiogenesis. Whether collagen formation, neoangiogenesis, and inflammation in cancer are associated with the Warburg effect needs to be established. Metabolic modelling has proven to be a tool of choice to understand biological reality better and make in silico predictions. Elementary Flux Modes (EFMs) are essential for conducting an unbiased decomposition of a metabolic model into its minimal functional units. EFMs can be investigated using our tool, aspefm, an innovative approach based on logic programming where biological constraints can be incorporated. These constraints allow networks to be characterized regardless of their size. Using a metabolic model of the human cell containing collagen, neoangiogenesis, and inflammation markers, we derived a subset of EFMs of biological relevance to the Warburg effect. Within this model, EFMs analysis provided more adequate results than parsimonious flux balance analysis and flux sampling. Upon further inspection, the EFM with the best linear regression fit to cancer cell lines exometabolomics data was selected. The minimal pathway, presenting the Warburg effect, collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and release of inflammation markers, showed that collagen production was possible directly de novo from glutamine uptake and without extracellular import of glycine and proline, collagen’s main constituents. Copyright: © 2024 Mahout et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Novel goose parvovirus in naturally infected ducks suffering from locomotor disorders: molecular detection, histopathological examination, immunohistochemical signals, and full genome sequencing
(Taylor and Francis Ltd, 2024-11-20) Mohamed A. Lebdah; Amal A. M. Eid; Reham M. ElBakrey; Abd Elgalil. El-Gohary; Mohamed R. Mousa; Hagar F. Gouda; Ahmed F. Gad; Sarah S. Helal; Mohamed G. Seadawy
In this study, we investigated the pathological effects of novel goose parvovirus (NGPV) infection on the skeletal muscle, brain, and intestine of naturally affected ducks suffering from locomotor dysfunction as a new approach for a deeper understanding of this clinical form. For this purpose, a total of 97 diseased ducks, representing 24 flocks of different duck breeds (14–75 days old), were clinically examined. In total, 72 tissue pools of intestine, brain, and skeletal muscle samples were submitted for molecular identification. Typical clinical signs among the examined ducks suggested parvovirus infection. Regarding postmortem examination, all examined ducks showed muscle emaciation (100%) either accompanied by congestion (34%) or paleness (66%). Slight congestion, either in the brain (82.5%) or intestine (75.25%), was predominantly detected. Based on molecular identification, the intestine had the highest percentage of positive detection (91.7%), followed by the skeletal muscle (70.8%), and the brain (20.8%). The main histopathological alterations were myofibre atrophy and degeneration, marked enteritis accompanied by lymphocytic infiltration in the lamina propria and submucosa, while the affected brains showed vasculitis, diffuse gliosis, and Purkinje cell degeneration in the cerebellum. Next-generation sequencing further confirmed the presence of a variant strain of goose parvovirus (vGPV) that is globally known as NGPV and closely related to Chinese NGPV isolates. Using immunohistochemistry, the NGPV antigen was positively detected in the muscle fibres, enterocytes, and Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. These findings provided proof of the involvement of virus replication in the locomotor disorders linked to NGPV infection in ducks.
Improving the growth of pea plant by biochar–polyacrylamide association to cope with heavy metal stress under sewage water application in a greenhouse
(Frontiers Media SA, 2024-09-06) Muhammad Naveed; Maryum Fatima; Zainab Naseem; Zulfiqar Ahmad; Abdel-Rhman Z Gaafar; Mubashra Shabbir; Qurrat ul Ain Farooq; Mohamed S. Hodhod; Muhammad Imran Khan; Dua Shahid; Adnan Mustafa
Sewage water is extensively used for irrigation, serving as a valuable resource for plant growth to enhance agricultural productivity. However, this practice also results in a significant accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, posing potential environmental and health risks. A study was designed to evaluate the combined effect of amendments on heavy metal immobilization in soil and improved growth and yield in pea plants. For this, the soil for each treatment was mixed with biochar (BC) (1% w/w), polyacrylamide (PAM) (0.5% w/w), and also applied in combination. Pea plants were irrigated with tap water (TW), sewage water (SW), and tap + sewage water (TW + SW). A factorial design was applied to analyze data statistically. The combined application of the biochar and polymer showed a positive response by significantly enhancing the plant growth parameters (39%–84%), physiological attributes (67%–69%), and reducing Cd (56%) and Cr (65%) concentration in soil applied with SW and TW + SW. Moreover, treatment with a combined application of BC and PAM significantly reduced Cd concentrations by 43% in roots, 50% in shoots, and 91% in grains. Similarly, Cr concentrations were reduced by 51% in roots, 51% in shoots, and 94% in grains compared to the control. Overall, the study results indicate reduced bioaccumulation and health risks associated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), supporting the application of the polymer and biochar for irrigating pea plants with TW + SW. Leveraging the combined benefits of polymer and biochar amendments appears to be an effective strategy to remediate PTE-contaminated soil, thereby increasing plant growth and yield. Copyright
Synthesis, biological and computational evaluation of benzoxazole hybrid analogs as potential anti-Alzheimer's agents
(Taylor and Francis Ltd., 2024-09-13) Mohamed S Othman; Rafaqat Hussain; Fazal Rahim; Hayat Ullah; Shoaib Khan; Muhammad Taha; Mohamed A Fareid; Anas T Altaleb; Shimaa M Aboelnaga; Syed Adnan Ali Shah
Aim: Current study aims exploration of bis-benzoxazole bearing bis-Schiff base scaffolds (1–16) as anti-Alzheimer's agents. Materials & methods: 2-aminophenol is used as starting materials which react with different reagents in different step to give us bis-benzoxazole bearing bis-Schiff base analogs. NMR and HREI-MS techniques were used for characterization. All derivatives demonstrated varied range of activities with IC50 values 1.10 ± 0.40–24.50 ± 0.90 μM against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and 1.90 ± 0.70–28.60 ± 0.60 μM against butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) in contrast to donepezil. In both cases, analog-3 was found most potent. Molecular docking explored modes of interactions between scaffolds and receptor sites of targeted enzymes. Conclusion: This study offering promising approach for optimization and development of potent inhibitors of cholinesterase enzymes. © 2024 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Industrially important enzymes of endophytic fungi
(Elsevier, 2024-01-01) Amira M.G. Darwish; Bassem Balbool; Fatma A. Abo Nouh
Endophytic fungi are a promising group of microorganisms that produce plant-associated bioactive metabolites with diverse chemical entities and structural functions including enzymes. Endophytic fungal enzymes have been gradually used in industrial production, and the production of amylase, cellulase, laccase, lipase, protein, xylanase, pectinase, phytase, and phenoxidase has been matured and industrialized. Safety and feasibility are the main keys for selective criteria of these enzymes. The ability of these fungi to produce a wide variety of enzymes makes their possible use in the most diverse fields, such as food, cosmetic, cleaning agents, biofuels, and pharmacy. Enzyme metabolites isolated from endophytic fungi exhibited various pharmacological properties, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. Besides mining the endophytic fungi for novel bioactive compounds and enzymes, new molecular studies that deal with the activation of putative pathways to produce new compounds or enzymes were carried out such as the activation of the silent biosynthetic cluster genes targeting some novel strains using the genetic engineering tools. Endophytic fungi have the ability to cause highly selective catalytic conversion of high-value compounds in an environmentally friendly manner (biotransformation), which can be important for the production of innovative bioactive molecules for food and nutrition, agriculture, and environment. The request for microbial sources is projected to witness significant growth in the near future due to their wide range of food and feed processing applications; consequently, unique endophytes with properties of biosynthesizing will represent future targets of scale-up and therapeutic studies.
Modulation efciency of clove oil nano‑emulsion against genotoxic, oxidative stress, and histological injuries induced via titanium dioxide nanoparticles in mice
(Nature Publishing Group, 2024-12-01) Hanan R. H. Mohamed; Sawsan El‑Shamy; Sherein S.Abdelgayed; RofdaAlbash; Haidan El‑Shorbagy
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) have found wide applications in medical and industrial fields. However, the toxic effect of various tissues is still under study. In this study, we evaluated the toxic effect of TiO2-NP on stomach, liver, and kidney tissues and the amelioration effect of clove oil nanoemulsion (CLV-NE) against DNA damage, oxidative stress, pathological changes, and the apoptotic effect of TiO2-NPs. Four groups of male mice were subjected to oral treatment for five consecutive days including, the control group, the group treated with TiO2-NPs (50 mg/kg), the group treated with (CLV-NE) (5% of the MTD), and the group treated with TiO2-NPs plus CLV-NE. The results revealed that the treatment with TiO2-NPs significantly caused DNA damage in the liver, stomach, and kidney tissues due to increased ROS as indicated by the reduction of the antioxidant activity of SOD and Gpx and increased MDA level. Further, abnormal histological signs and apoptotic effect confirmed by the significant elevation of p53 expression were reported after TiO2-NPs administration. The present data reported a significant improvement in the previous parameters after treatment with CLV-NE. These results showed the collaborative effect of the oils and the extra role of nanoemulsion in enhancing antioxidant effectiveness that enhances its disperse-ability and further promotes its controlled release. One could conclude that CLV-NE is safe and can be used as a powerful antioxidative agent to assess the toxic effects of the acute use of TiO2-NPs.
Energy content of plant organs and population cohorts in Moringa peregrina: concepts for species conservation management in arid regions
(Egyptian Academy of Science and Technology, 2024-12-01) Ahmad K. Hegazy; Mohammad K. Okla; Zahra S. Husein
Conservation management and sustainable use of Moringa peregrina are needed to overcome overexploitation coupled with potential environmental changes. This study demonstrates the energy dynamics of M. peregrina, how stored energy influences species persistence amidst environmental challenges, and the importance of energy reserves in the resilience of the species population. Field, greenhouse, and lab experiments were conducted at the levels of population cohorts, plant organs, seeds, and seedlings to demonstrate the relationship between energy content and the persistence of the species. Seedlings and juveniles stored around 12,000 joule/g in roots, while uncoppiced adults stored about 9,000 joule/g in stems, and coppiced adults stored 1,800-4,000 joule/g in lignotubers. In adult trees, the number of sprouting stems is correlated with the energy content in lignotubers. Over the ten years of seed storage, a rapid rate of energy depletion was observed, ranging from 16,821 to 5,059 joule/g, which is associated with decreased germination and viability. The energy content in two-month-old seedlings varied from 240 to 800 joule/seedlings under 200 and 800 mm rainfall, respectively. The unstable population structure could be ascribed to the depletion of stored energy in lignotubers following uncontrolled coppicing and the rapid depletion of seed energy, which hinders the population resilience.
Molecular variations and photosynthetic pigment content of Avicennia marina growing in subtropical habitat types
(Egyptian Academy of Science and Technology, 2024-12-01) Samar S. Marae; Ahmad K. Hegazy; Merit Rostom; Zahra S. Hussein; Hossam E. A. Awad
Mangrove habitats are important ecosystems for their ecological value, and goods and services they offer. These costal habitats are currently vulnerable due to excessive human activities. The black mangrove Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. (Avicenniaceae) populations growing in Nabq protected area represents the northernmost latitudinal limit of the Indo-Pacific-East African naturally growing mangrove forests. In this study, nine A. marina populations inhabiting Gulf of Aqaba were studied to assess the genetic relationship among the populations by Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) as DNA Markers. Variations of photosynthetic pigment content were assessed in the populations growing in different habitat types. The numbers of polymorphic bands were 18 and 6 for SCoT and ISSR, respectively. The percentage of polymorphism showed wide range amounted to 40.9 for SCoT and 25 for ISSR, while the number of amplicon bands ranged from 8–10 in SCoT and 2-9 in ISSR. The genetic relationships among populations using SCoT and ISSR analysis showed close relationship between the nearby but different habitat type populations such as sand mound and littoral populations, or between populations of same habitat types in the study region. The photosynthetic pigment content of chlorophyll a and b, and carotenoids in the littoral and intertidal populations were higher than that in the sand mound and salt plain populations. Populations inhabiting Nabq protected area have wide range of polymorphism among different habitat types. Further studies are required to investigate the genetic relationships among populations of A. marina inhabiting the eastern and western sides of the Red Sea.
Evaluation of Vincamine Loaded with Silver Nanoparticles as a New Potential Therapeutic Agent Against Ehrlich’s Solid Carcinoma in Mice
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024-11-01) Naief Dahran; Mohamed S. Othman; Mohamed E. Ghoniem; Mai A. Samak; Mohamed T. Elabbasy; Sofian T. Obeidat; Ghada M. Aleid; Shimaa Abo Elnaga; Azza M. Khaled; Aya A. Altaleb; Ahmed E. Abdel Moneim
Vincamine, a monoterpenoid indole alkaloid with vasodilatory properties, is extracted from the leaves of Vinca minor. The present study aimed to determine the potential anticancer effects of vincamine loaded in silver nanoparticles (VCN-AgNPs) in mice with Ehrlich solid carcinoma (ESC). After tumor transplantation, the mice were divided into five groups: ESC, ESC+Cisplatin (CPN; 5 mg/kg), ESC+VCN (40 mg/kg), ESC+AgNPs (6 mg/kg), and ESC+VCN-AgNPs (20 mg/kg). The administration of VCN-AgNPs to ESC-bearing mice improved their survival rate and reduced their body weight, tumor size, and tumor weight compared to the ESC group. Furthermore, VCN-AgNPs intensified oxidative stress in tumor tissues, as evidenced by elevated levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitric oxide (NO), along with a reduction in the levels of the antioxidants investigated (GSH, GPx, GR, SOD, CAT, and TAC). Furthermore, VCN-AgNPs increased the apoptotic proteins Bax and caspase-3, decreased the anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2), increased the inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-1β, and inhibited angiogenesis by lowering VEGF levels in tumor tissues, all of which led to apoptosis. Furthermore, histopathological studies showed that VCN-AgNPs suppressed the progression of Ehrlich carcinoma and induced the formation of clusters of necrotic and fragmented tumor cells. VCN-AgNPs possess cytotoxic and genotoxic effects against ESC because of their pro-oxidant, pro-apoptotic, pro-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic effects. Additionally, the combination of VCN-AgNPs was more effective and safer than chemically synthesized AgNPs, as indicated by an increase in the lifespan of animals and the total tumor inhibition index.
Explore the physical properties of the synthesized UiO-66, Zn-BiOBr, and Zn-BiOBr/UiO-66 heterostructures for optical applications
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-01-05) A. Farid; Hassan Nageh; T.S. Soliman; A. Khalid; Nour Marwan; Mohamed Taha
The Zn-BiOBr/UiO-66 Heterostructures were prepared using a simple wet chemical method. Three heterostructures were prepared by varying the weight percentage of UiO-66 to Zn-BiOBr. The prepared materials' chemical compositions and phase structure were investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Furthermore, the morphology was investigated via Field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and elemental mapping techniques. The optical features were analyzed through UV–vis spectrophotometry. The bandgap energy was calculated using the Tauc equation and was found 4.24 eV for UiO66 and 2.17 eV for the ZnBiOBr composite. After combining the ZnBiOBr composite with the UiO66 material the bandgap energy of the composite decreased to 4.07, 3.94, and 3.75 eV after doping 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % UiO-66, respectively. Additionally, the refractive index of the Zn-BiOBr/UiO-66 heterostructure increases from 2.1520 for the UiO-66 composite to about 2.1929, 2.2254, and 2.2748 for 10, 20, and 30 % UiO66. Moreover, an enhancement was observed for other optical parameters like electronegativity, metallization, and optical conductivity. Besides, the W-DD model was used to investigate the nonlinear optical parameters, which showed an improvement in the first- and third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility, and nonlinear refractive index values with increasing UiO-66 content in the composite matrix.
Modeling climate‑related global risk maps of rice bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae (Ishiyama 1922) using geographical information system (GIS)
(Springer Nature, 2024-10-17) Sameh M. H. Khalaf; Monerah S. M. Alqahtani; Mohamed R. M. Ali; Ibrahim T. I. Abdelalim; Mohamed S. Hodhod
Rice is a critical staple crop that feeds more than half of the world’s population. Still, its production confronts various biotic risks, notably the severe bacterial blight disease produced by Xanthomonas oryzae. Understanding the possible effects of climate change on the geographic distribution of this virus is critical to ensuring food security. This work used ecological niche modeling and the Maxent algorithm to create future risk maps for the range of X. oryzae under several climate change scenarios between 2050 and 2070. The model was trained using 93 occurrence records of X. oryzae and five critical bioclimatic variables. It has an excellent predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.889. The results show that X. oryzae’s potential geographic range and habitat suitability are expected to increase significantly under low (RCP2.6) and high (RCP8.5) emission scenarios. Key climatic drivers allowing this development include increased yearly precipitation, precipitation during the wettest quarter, and the wettest quarter’s mean temperature. These findings are consistent with broader research revealing that climate change is allowing many plant diseases and other dangerous microbes to spread across the globe. Integrating these spatial predictions with data on host susceptibility, agricultural practices, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities can help to improve targeted surveillance, preventative, and management methods for reducing the growing threat of bacterial blight to rice production. Proactive, multidisciplinary efforts to manage the changing disease dynamics caused by climate change will be critical to assuring global food security in the future decades.
Significance of CD70, VEGF and CD90 Immunohistochemical Expression in Colorectal Cancer
(Asian Pacific Organization for Cancer Prevention, 2024-10-01) Tarek Aboushousha; Merna Osama; Merna Mohamed; Yasmine Khaled; Hesham A Elmeligy; Yousra Ossama
Background: Colorectal cancer is the 4th most reported reason for cancer death worldwide. It is a complex and multifaceted disease with diverse histopathological manifestations. CD70 is present on activated immune cells and is upregulated in patients who have finished adjuvant therapy. VEGF controls angiogenesis and demonstrates immuno-regulatory characteristics that inhibit the anticancer activity of immune cells. CD90 is an extracellular cancer stem cell marker and regulates apoptosis, cell migration, and T cell activation. Aim of work: to elucidate the prognostic potential of a combined immunohistochemical assessment of CD70, VEGF, and CD90 biomarkers in colorectal cancer tissues. Materials and methods: Our study is a retrospective study done on 70 paraffin blocks (45 colorectal carcinoma cases and 11 adenomas, along with 14 cases of colitis serving as controls) were subjected to conventional Hematoxylin and Eosin stain for routine histopathological assessment and immunohistochemical staining for CD70, VEGF and CD90. Our investigation focused on evaluating the expression of CD70, VEGF, and CD90 in various colorectal tissues, including colitis, adenomas, and adenocarcinomas, as well as different grades of adenocarcinoma tissues, different stages of tumor invasiveness, and lymph node status. Results: Our research revealed distinctive expression patterns of CD70, VEGF, and CD90 across different stages and grades of colorectal cancer. Conclusion: our research signifies the potential clinical utility of the CD70, VEGF, and CD90 triad as prognostic markers in colorectal cancer. The combined analysis of these markers emerged as a potent prognostic tool, offering valuable insights into disease progression. Our research showed that epithelial CD90 is the most sensitive marker for both tumor stage and lymph node status. CD70 and VEGF showed a statistically significant relation with lymph node status only and not with tumor stage.

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