Soluble perlecan domain i enhances vascular endothelial growth factor-165 activity and receptor phosphorylation in human bone marrow endothelial cells

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Immobilized recombinant perlecan domain I (PlnDI) binds and modulates the activity of heparin-binding growth factors, <it>in vitro</it>. However, activities for PlnDI, in solution, have not been reported. In this study, we assessed the ability of soluble forms to modulate vascular endothelial growth factor-165 (VEGF₁₆₅) enhanced capillary tube-like formation, and VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation of human bone marrow endothelial cells, <it>in vitro</it>.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>In solution, PlnDI binds VEGF₁₆₅in a heparan sulfate and pH dependent manner. Capillary tube-like formation is enhanced by exogenous PlnDI; however, PlnDI/VEGF₁₆₅mixtures combine to enhance formation beyond that stimulated by either PlnDI or VEGF₁₆₅alone. PlnDI also stimulates VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation, and mixtures of PlnDI/VEGF₁₆₅reduce the time required for peak VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation (Tyr-951), and increase Akt phosphorylation. PlnDI binds both immobilized neuropilin-1 and VEGF receptor-2, but has a greater affinity for neuropilin-1. PlnDI binding to neuropilin-1, but not to VEGF receptor-2 is dependent upon the heparan sulfate chains adorning PlnDI. Interestingly, the presence of VEGF₁₆₅but not VEGF₁₂₁significantly enhances PlnDI binding to Neuropilin-1 and VEGF receptor-2.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Our observations suggest soluble forms of PlnDI are biologically active. Moreover, PlnDI heparan sulfate chains alone or together with VEGF₁₆₅can enhance VEGFR-2 signaling and angiogenic events, <it>in vitro</it>. We propose PlnDI liberated during basement membrane or extracellular matrix turnover may have similar activities, <it>in vivo</it>.</p

Deciphering mollusc shell production: the roles of genetic mechanisms through to ecology, aquaculture and biomimetics

Most molluscs possess shells, constructed from a vast array of microstructures and architectures. The fully formed shell is composed of calcite or aragonite. These CaCO3 crystals form complex biocomposites with proteins, which although typically less than 5% of total shell mass, play significant roles in determining shell microstructure. Despite much research effort, large knowledge gaps remain in how molluscs construct and maintain their shells, and how they produce such a great diversity of forms. Here we synthesize results on how shell shape, microstructure, composition and organic content vary among, and within, species in response to numerous biotic and abiotic factors. At the local level, temperature, food supply and predation cues significantly affect shell morphology, whilst salinity has a much stronger influence across latitudes. Moreover, we emphasize how advances in genomic technologies [e.g. restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-Seq) and epigenetics] allow detailed examinations of whether morphological changes result from phenotypic plasticity or genetic adaptation, or a combination of these. RAD-Seq has already identified single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with temperature and aquaculture practices, whilst epigenetic processes have been shown significantly to modify shell construction to local conditions in, for example, Antarctica and New Zealand. We also synthesize results on the costs of shell construction and explore how these affect energetic trade-offs in animal metabolism. The cellular costs are still debated, with CaCO3 precipitation estimates ranging from 1-2 J/mg to 17-55 J/mg depending on experimental and environmental conditions. However, organic components are more expensive (~29 J/mg) and recent data indicate transmembrane calcium ion transporters can involve considerable costs. This review emphasizes the role that molecular analyses have played in demonstrating multiple evolutionary origins of biomineralization genes. Although these are characterized by lineage-specific proteins and unique combinations of co-opted genes, a small set of protein domains have been identified as a conserved biomineralization tool box. We further highlight the use of sequence data sets in providing candidate genes for in situ localization and protein function studies. The former has elucidated gene expression modularity in mantle tissue, improving understanding of the diversity of shell morphology synthesis. RNA interference (RNAi) and clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats - CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) experiments have provided proof of concept for use in the functional investigation of mollusc gene sequences, showing for example that Pif (aragonite-binding) protein plays a significant role in structured nacre crystal growth and that the Lsdia1 gene sets shell chirality in Lymnaea stagnalis. Much research has focused on the impacts of ocean acidification on molluscs. Initial studies were predominantly pessimistic for future molluscan biodiversity. However, more sophisticated experiments incorporating selective breeding and multiple generations are identifying subtle effects and that variability within mollusc genomes has potential for adaption to future conditions. Furthermore, we highlight recent historical studies based on museum collections that demonstrate a greater resilience of molluscs to climate change compared with experimental data. The future of mollusc research lies not solely with ecological investigations into biodiversity, and this review synthesizes knowledge across disciplines to understand biomineralization. It spans research ranging from evolution and development, through predictions of biodiversity prospects and future-proofing of aquaculture to identifying new biomimetic opportunities and societal benefits from recycling shell products.FCT: UID/Multi/04326/2019; European Marine Biological Research Infrastructure Cluster-EMBRIC (EU H2020 research and innovation program) 654008; European Union Seventh Framework Programme [FP7] ITN project 'CACHE: Calcium in a Changing Environment' under REA 60505; NERC Natural Environment Research Council NE/J500173/1info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

In vitro efficacy of green synthesized ZnO nanoparticles against biofilm and virulence of Serratia marcescens

[[abstract]]Zinc oxide reduced into nanosized exhibits antibacterial activity due to the interaction of ZnO with the cell surface and inside of the bacteria making them adaptive candidate for antibacterial activity. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized using plant extract and their biomolecules makes them a safer, non-toxic and bactericidal solution against pathogenic bacteria. Till date, only few research articles are published on analysing the antibiofilm and anti-virulence activity of ZnO NPs synthesized using Ruellia tuberosa extract. Based on these literature survey, the present study was focused on synthesizing ZnO NPs using Ruellia tuberosa and efficacy to inhibit biofilm formation and virulence factor of Serratia marcescens. ZnO NPs at the concentration of 100 μg/mL showed highest antibacterial activity by reducing S. marcescens growth upto 4-fold (0.25 OD600nm) in comparison to untreated bacteria (1.8 OD600nm). ZnO NPs also showed 50% of inhibition of biofilm formation 25 μg/mL concentration. Microscopic analysis revealed the phenotypical change in the biofilm matrix formation after treating with >25 μg/mL of ZnO NPs. Prodigiosin, a quorum sensing regulated factor of S. marcescens was also inhibited >70% at 100 μg/mL concentration of ZnO NPs. Therefore, the present study shows the efficacy of green fabricated ZnO NPs to inhibit the growth, biofilm, and virulence factor of S. marcescens

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Not AvailableIncreasing the mineral contents in vegetables through breeding is considered as a suitable strategy to combat mineral deficiencies in human populations. In the present study, 21 morphologically diverse cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) genotypes, comprising 19 germplasm accessions and two commercial varieties were analyzed for moisture, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper and zinc contents on a fresh weight (FW) basis. Significant differences in the mineral composition among the genotypes studied were detected. Moisture content ranged from 93.2-97.1%. The macro-minerals such as potassium and magnesium ranged from 124-161 mg and 9.76-17.6 mg/100 g FW, respectively. The micro-nutrients such as copper, iron and zinc ranged from 0.0249-0.0782 mg, 0.255-0.626 mg, and 0.0162-0.281 mg/ 100 g FW, respectively. Phenotypic co-efficient of variation and genotypic co-efficient of variation were high for the minerals studied except potassium. High broad sense heritability (83.14-99.86%) indicated the presence of additive gene effects. Three genotypes, namely, IC538155, IC538121 and IC527405 have been identified as good sources of iron, potassium and zinc. Hence, these genotypes could be utilized in breeding programmes for developing mineral rich cucumber varieties.Not Availabl

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Not AvailableMost of the underutilized fruits are rich in antioxidants and nutraceutical properties including therapeutic values. It may also be possible to ensure sustainable fruit culture activities through crop diversification in some of the agro-ecologies through integrating them in production systems by suitably manipulating crop geometry and due cultural attention. Recently, cultivation of some of these fruits gained substantial momentum due to steady appreciation of health benefits, increasing market demands and emergence of niche markets. Commercial planting under few of these crops in recent years have increased appreciably to about less than 1,000 acres in parts of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and also other states, where, they are being grown commercially in small or chards, mixed fruit orchards as well as popular homestead candidates. some fruit crops are mentioned in this chapter.Not Availabl

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Not AvailableCoconut inflorescence sap is a phloem sap collected from the unopened coconut spadix. A new ‘coco-sap chiller method’ (CSCM) is developed to collect fresh and unfermented sap devoid of extraneous matter. A study was conducted to identify and compare the nutrients present in the sap collected by CSCM and the sap collected by traditional method (TM) using lime coated earthen pot, and also in the sap concentrate and coconut sugar prepared from sap collected by CSCM. Profiling of amino acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids and vitamins was also done using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography/ Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC coupled with TQD-MS/MS). Distinct variation in physical and biochemical properties were recorded between the sap collection methods. The sap collected by CSCM was slightly alkaline (pH 7–8), golden brown in color, sweet and delicious and rich in nutrients and zero alcoholic. While the sap collected by TM was acidic (pH below 6), oyster white in color and gave astringent smell and had about 2.32% alcohol. Sap collected by CSCM was rich in essential amino acids like lysine, threonine and histidine. A total number of thirteen phenolic acids and seven flavonoids were identified from coconut sap, sap concentrate and sap sugar. Vanilic acid, syringic acid, trans-cinnamic acid and p-hydroxy benzoic acid are the major phenolic acids and catechin, hesperitin, and myricetin are the major flavonoids identified. Vitamin C, niacin, and tocopherol are the major vitamin identified. Except few vitamins, all the nutrients present in the sap were preserved in the sap concentrate and coconut sugar. In summary, coconut sap collected by CSCM was fresh and contained numerous health promoting biochemical constituents such as phenolics, flavonoids and vitamins. Hence it can be consumed as ready to serve non-alcoholic health drink. Similarly, nutrient rich sap concentrate and coconut sugar can be prepared from fresh sap collected by CSCM without the addition of any chemicals.ICA

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Not AvailableStudy was conducted to determine the biochemical constituents in coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) haustorium, a spongy tissue formed during coconut germination. Results indicated that 100g of dried coconut haustorium contained 1.05 ± 0.2% ash, 44.2 ± 4.6% soluble sugar, 24.5 ± 3.2% starch, 5.50 ± 0.3% protein, 1.99 ± 0.9% fat, 5.72 ± 0.4% soluble dietary fibre, 20.3 ± 1.9% insoluble dietary fibre, and 146 ± 14.3 mg phenolics. Mineral profiling showed that it contained 145 ± 8.6, 104 ± 9.6, 33.9 ± 8.2, 30.9 ± 1.9, 9.45 ± 2.1, 0.292 ± 0.1, 2.53 ± 0.2 and 1.20 ± 0.1 mg of K, Mg, Ca, P, Mn, Cu, Fe and Zn, respectively. Antioxidant activity assay indicated that 100g haustorium was equivalent to 1918 ± 173, 170 ± 20.4, 72.8 ± 14.7 and 860 ± 116 mg of Trolox as measured by CUPRAC, FRAP, DPPH and ABTS, respectively. Amino acid score indicated that methionine + cysteine (57.6%), phenylalanine + tyrosine (32.6%), leucine (45.7%) and isoleucine (68%) are found less in haustorium. Further studies needed in developing nutritionally balanced formulations using coconut haustorium, which will be useful for lactose intolerant children.Not Availabl

Effect of hydrogen and multiwall carbon nanotubes blends on combustion performance and emission of diesel engine using Taguchi approach

The analysis of optimum engine conditions operating under hydrogen and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) blends using the Taguchi L16 approach were examined. The effect of hydrogen (10%, 20%, and 30%) and MWCNTs (30 ppm, 50 ppm, and 80 ppm) with different fuel blend proportions were evaluated at different engine loads of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Further, the influence of ignition pressure was evaluated at four intervals of 180 bar, 200 bar, 220 bar, and 240 bar. In addition, the ignition timing varied at different intervals of 21(0)bTDC, 23(0)bTDC, 27(0)bTDC and 31(0)bTDC, respectively. TaguchiL16 approach was designed according to the combinations of the array, including load, hydrogen, MWCNTs, ignition pressure, and timing with four optimal conditions. Results revealed that the L16 orthogonal array was a suitable method to find the optimized working conditions of the diesel engine for higher performance and less emission of NOx, HC, CO, and CO2. Compared to neat diesel, the addition of hydrogen and MWCNTs reduces the emission with improved brak

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Not AvailableTemperature is a primary factor affecting the rate of plant development. Warmer temperatures expected with climate change and the potential for more extreme temperature events will impact plant productivity. Pollination is one of the most sensitive phenological stages to temperature extremes and in this study an in vitro pollen germination technique is used to screen coconut genotypes tolerant to high temperature. The pollen of twelve coconut genotypes comprising five talls (CCNT, FMST, LCT, PHOT and WCT), five dwarfs (CGD, COD, CRD, GBGD and MYD) and two hybrids (COD X WCT and MYD X WCT) were screened at different temperature levels from 10 to 50 °C at an interval of 2.5 °C. Cultivar variation existed for cardinal temperatures (Tmin, Topt and Tmax) of pollen germination percentage and pollen tube growth. Mean cardinal temperatures calculated from the bilinear model for the 12 genotypes ranged from 23.5 °C to 29.5 °C, 9.7 °C to 16.5 °C and 40.1 °C to 43.9 °C for Topt, Tmin and Tmax, respectively. In general tall, cultivars FMST, LCT, WCT, dwarf cultivar COD and hybrids showed better adaptability to high temperature while dwarf MYD was the least adaptable. At the metabolic level, high temperatures induced about 20% reduction in soluble protein content compared to optimal temperature in all the studied genotypes. There was an inverse relationship between superoxide dismutase activity and pollen germination percentage. Overall, there was wide variation in coconut cultivars for cardinal temperatures (Tmin, Topt and Tmax) of pollen germination percentage and pollen tube growth. The genotypes with higher Tmax for pollen germination and tube growth may be more tolerant to high temperature stress during flowering. Further studies are required to validate the results under in vivo condition; and also to understand the mechanism and factors that lead to pollen sterility in coconut.Not Availabl