Category: SDGs-2024

SDGs, SDGs-2024

Piceatannol-rich extract from Passiflora edulis Sims seeds attenuates morphological differentiation through the reduction of MITF mRNA expression and F-actin polymerization in UVB-induced hyperpigmented B16F10 cells

Goals 3
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Piceatannol-rich extract from Passiflora edulis Sims seeds attenuates morphological differentiation through the reduction of MITF mRNA expression and F-actin polymerization in UVB-induced hyperpigmented B16F10 cells

Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation causes skin problems by increasing cellular oxidants, melanogenesis, and morphological changes in melanocytes. Piceatannol (PCT), a phytochemical found in Passiflora edulis fruit seed (PFS), is known for its anti-melanogenesis effects. However, its effect on morphological differentiation related to melanin production had not been studied. This research investigated the impact of PFS extract on inhibiting morphological differentiation, focusing on microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) mRNA expression and F-actin polymerization in UVB-induced hyperpigmented B16F10 cells.

Three fractions of PFS extract were analyzed for total phenolics, PCT proportion, and antioxidant capacity. The fraction with the highest PCT proportion and antioxidant activity (PFS-F3) was studied for its effects on cellular oxidants, melanin-containing cells, melanin content, MITF mRNA expression, and tyrosinase activity. Additionally, morphological differentiation and F-actin polymerization were analyzed. Results showed that PFS-F3 had the highest antioxidant effect and reduced cellular oxidants, melanin-containing cells, melanin content, MITF mRNA expression, and tyrosinase activity. It also repressed differentiation and F-actin polymerization in UVB-irradiated cells.

In conclusion, PFS extract rich in PCT attenuated morphological differentiation by suppressing MITF mRNA functions and F-actin polymerization, reducing melanin production.

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SDGs, SDGs-2024

A Novel’s Evidence of MSG-Induced Craniofacial Defects in Chick Embryo Models

Goals 2
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture

A Novel’s Evidence of MSG-Induced Craniofacial Defects in Chick Embryo Models

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a common food additive, has been linked to harmful effects on developing embryos. This study aimed to explore how MSG affects the development of facial structures in chick embryos. The present study used 180 fertilized eggs, dividing them into two groups: one group received MSG, and the other did not (the control group). The embryos were studied at three stages of development. The study examined the shape and structure of the craniofacial area (head and face) under a microscope, and also looked at certain cells that play a key role in facial development.

The results showed that MSG caused several problems in the embryos. At the earliest stage, MSG led to issues like improper opening of the neural tube (a critical part of brain and spinal cord development) and eye deformities. By later stages, MSG caused facial bones to form incorrectly and delayed bone hardening. The study also found that MSG triggered the death of stem cells involved in facial development and slowed down their growth. This is the first study to report that high doses of MSG can cause serious facial deformities in embryos during development.

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Iron induces blood-brain barrier alteration contributing to cognitive impairment in b-thalassaemia mice

Goals 3
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Iron induces blood-brain barrier alteration contributing to cognitive impairment in beta-thalassaemia mice

The association of iron overload with cerebrovascular disease and cognitive impairment has been reported in b-thalassemia patients. However, the mechanism of iron overload leading to cerebrovascular pathology is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of iron overload on blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage contributing to brain pathology leading to cognitive impairment in b-thalassemia mice (BKO) as a disease model. This study can enhance the understanding of the pathophysiology of iron overload-related cognitive impairment in b-thalassemia, including mechanistic insight into iron overload and brain pathology specifically in BBB alteration. This study provides a foundation for further research into the neuroprotective effects of iron chelation therapy and other interventions aimed at preserving BBB integrity and neuronal health, thereby improving the quality of life for b-thalassemia patients.

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Bioassay-guided isolation of two antiproliferative metabolites from Pterocarpus indicus Willd. against TGF-β-induced prostate stromal cells (WPMY-1) proliferation via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Goals 3
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Bioassay-guided isolation of two antiproliferative metabolites from Pterocarpus indicus Willd. against TGF-β-induced prostate stromal cells (WPMY-1) proliferation via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged, mainly affecting older men. This enlargement is linked to a growth factor called TGF-β, which increases the growth of prostate cells and leads to urinary problems. The plant Pterocarpus indicus has been traditionally used for its healing properties, including effects on urinary health. This study investigated how P. indicus extract affects cell growth triggered by TGF-β. Researchers isolated two compounds from the extract, called angolensin (Ang) and maackiain (Mac).

They explored how these compounds might work by analyzing related biological pathways, focusing on one called the PI3K/AKT pathway, which is known to be involved in cell growth. The results showed that the P. indicus extract and the isolated compounds Ang and Mac reduced cell growth and increased cell death in the prostate cells. They also reduced the presence of proteins linked to cell growth (such as PCNA) and activated cell death proteins (such as p53). This suggests that the P. indicus extract and its active compounds, Ang and Mac, could be potential treatments for BPH. Future studies could use Ang and Mac as markers to standardize P. indicus extracts.

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