Cellular and Molecular Biology

The role of tRNA-derived fragments in prostate cancer: a review

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Prostate Cancer (PCa) is a leading malignancy in men in developed countries. The lack of reliable prognostic markers in PCa hinders effective treatment, leading to potential patient misclassification and overtreatment with associated side effects. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing have enabled the identification of tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), small non-coding RNAs derived from tRNA cleavage. tRFs regulate crucial cellular processes like viability, differentiation, and homeostasis, implicating them in disease development, particularly cancer. Their potential as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis, as well as targets for precision therapies, is increasingly recognized. This review focuses on the key biological functions of tRFs, including RNA silencing, translation regulation, and epigenetic regulation. It summarizes recent findings on tRFs in PCa, exploring their potential as clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Exploring the role of microRNA-9-5p and microRNA-125b-5p for their therapeutic potential in multiple myeloma

Ivyna Pau Ni Bong, Nor Soleha Mohd Dali, Norodiyah Othman, Aliza Mohd Yacob — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In recent years, microRNA (miRNA) aberrations have gained particular attention in cancer pathogenesis. In our previous study using global miRNA expression microarray, we identified overexpression of miR-9-5p and miR-125-5p in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. To date, the roles of miR-9-5p and miR-125-5p are not well understood and require further clarification. This study aimed to investigate the functional role of miR-9-5p and miR-125b-5p in MM by in vitro cell-based assays. Synthetic mimics or inhibitors were transfected into the KMS-28BM MM cell line using nucleofection. The relative miRNA expression level was detected using RT-qPCR. Cell proliferation was measured with MTS assay, while apoptosis was analysed by flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC/ PI double staining technique. The study findings revealed that suppression of miR-9-5p with inhibitor decreased cell proliferation significantly, while enforced expression of miR-9-5p by synthetic mimics increased proliferation of these cells compared to the scrambled negative control (P < 0.05). Moreover, transfection of miR-9-5p inhibitor and mimic increased (P < 0.01) and decreased (P < 0.05) the proportion of early apoptotic cells, respectively. Apart from that, repression of miR-125b-5p significantly increased the number of late apoptotic cells while overexpression reduced the number of early apoptotic cells compared to the negative control (P < 0.05). Inhibition of miR-9-5p and miR-125b-5p exert apoptotic and/ or antiproliferative effects in KMS-28BM cells, suggesting their possible role in the treatment of MM.

Antioxidant, cytotoxic activity, chemical composition and molecular docking of the stembark of Breonadia salicina Hepper and J. R. I. Wood

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

The study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant properties, chemical composition, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the stembark from Breonadia salicina. Furthermore, lead compounds were studied for their possible antioxidant and anticancer effects using in silico analysis. Antioxidant activity was measured using the ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assays. The chemical composition was analyzed with LCMS/LC-HRM (Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry) technique. The ethyl acetate (EAS) fraction derived from Stembark exhibited significant antioxidant properties, as evidenced by its total phenolic content (146.8 ± 1.2 mg GAE/g), flavonoid contents (84.7 ± 4.6 mg Rutin/g), DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity, yielding values of 279.7 and 259 μg/mL, respectively. A total of twenty-one compounds were identified within the EAS fraction. Notably, compounds 7, 18, and 19 recorded the highest docking scores of -9.2, -9.2, and -9.3 (kcal/mol, respectively. Compounds 1, 5, 8, 9, and 13 demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against ovarian cancer, with a probability (Pa) greater than 0.92. Furthermore, compounds 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 19, and 21 exhibited strong IC₅₀ values of less than 1 µM. Among these, compounds 1 and 19 received the highest predictive scores from the three in silico assessment tools employed. Anacardic acid (compound 1) and SSR161421 (compound 19) achieved the best results, being recognized by two of the three anticancer in silico tools. These lead compounds may serve as promising candidates for the development of therapeutic agents aimed at specifically targeting cancer cells.

Anti-amnesic and analgesic effects of Moringa oleifera in diabetic rats: possible hypoglycemic and antioxidant mechanisms

Parisa Hasanein, Alireza Komaki — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ethanolic extract of dried Moringa oleifera leaves (MO) administered intragastrically at different doses for 30 days on diabetes-induced amnesia and hyperalgesia in rats, as well as to investigate the possible underlying mechanisms. Rats received MO extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) or vehicle starting at the onset of hyperglycemia and continuing for 30 days. Passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory tasks were used to assess memory, while formalin test was applied to analyze chemical hyperalgesia. Diabetes led to impairments in both phases of the PAL and memory test. MO (200 and 400 mg/kg) protected diabetic rats from learning and memory impairment and enhanced cognition of control animals. In the formalin test, MO at 200 and 400 ng/kg reversed chemical hyperalgesia of diabetic rats, while showing analgesic effects in healthy rats. The most significant hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects were shown with MO 400 mg/kg in diabetic animals. MO (200 and 400mg/kg) enhanced cognitive function and induced analgesia in diabetic rats, possibly by hypoglycemic and antioxidant mechanisms. Therefore, it may be a promising source for management of diabetic neurological complications that deserves notice and further studies.

In-silico analysis of Rcr3 polymorphism in Solanaceous species and its influence on tomato Cf-2 mediated recognition of the Fulvia fulvum Avr2 effector

Fahimeh Dolatabadi, Mansoor Karimi-Jashni — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Understanding how pathogen recognition has evolved in plants is essential for uncovering the mechanisms of host resistance and enhancing crop resilience. In this study, we examined how polymorphisms influence the evolutionary dynamics of Avr2 effector recognition from Fulvia fulvum across selected Rcr3 proteins in Solanaceae species. Rcr3, a co-receptor protein central to pathogen recognition, displays notable sequence variation that may affect its interaction with Avr2. Amino acid sequences of Rcr3 from ten Solanaceous plant species were obtained from public databases and categorized into compatible or incompatible groups according to their hypersensitive response. Structural modeling and comparative analyses revealed significant polymorphism in the Rcr3 binding sites, with 73 amino acid substitutions in the compatible group and 33 in the incompatible group, relative to the reference species Solanum lycopersicum. Structural assessments indicated that amino acids within the binding grooves of Rcr3 variants exhibit considerable diversity, particularly within incompatible species, where tighter binding interactions (less than 2Å) were observed. In contrast, compatible species displayed more variable, longer-range interactions (up to 6Å), suggesting a correlation between binding site polymorphism and recognition capability. These findings provide critical insights into the molecular basis of pathogen resistance in Solanaceae, highlighting the evolutionary pressures shaping Rcr3 diversity and its functional implications for plant immunity.

Exploring miR-222-3p and miR-16-5p: promising biomarkers for gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis

Zahraa Abdulhadi Nima , Orass Madhi Shaheed — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, associated with various adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Women with GDM have increased risks of cesarean delivery, pre-eclampsia, and gestational hypertension. Additionally, GDM raises the risk of impaired glucose metabolism, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. This study enrolled 100 pregnant women under medical supervision at the Maternity and Children's Teaching Hospital in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate from September 5, 2024, to May 28, 2025, including 50 diagnosed with GDM and 50 healthy controls. There was no significant difference in mean age between the groups, although GDM patients tended to be slightly older. Expression levels of miR-222-3p and miR-16-5p were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. The mean Ct value for miR-222-3p was significantly lower in GDM patients (26.70) compared to controls (28.79), indicating higher expression in the patient group. Conversely, expression of miR-16-5p was reduced in GDM patients relative to controls. Our findings suggest that elevated miR-222-3p and decreased miR-16-5p levels in maternal blood may serve as promising biomarkers for early diagnosis and risk assessment of GDM.

Therapeutic potential of kodo millet in rheumatoid arthritis through immunomodulation and antioxidant enhancement

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease, and conventional medications used to treat RA have anti-inflammatory activity as one of their primary modes of action. Since medications have unfavorable side effects, dietary therapy for arthritis is presently getting lots of attention. Kodo millet (Paspalum scorbiculatum) is a highly nutritious grain belonging to the Poaceae family, rich in fiber, nutrients and antioxidant content. They are the least exploited cereals and have pharmacological benefits in various conditions. The present study reveals the potential effects of kodo millet on immune regulation and antioxidant defense in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) rats. Female Wistar rats were divided into three groups. Group I- Normal, Group II -CIA, Group III- CIA+ 10% cooked kodo millet (KM). After 60 days of experimental period and millet supplementation, organ indices, B-cell, Th2, Th17 immune responses, RANKL/NFATc pathways, cytokines and level of antioxidants were analyzed. Our findings reveal that 10% cooked kodo millet enhances B cell functionality, Th2-Th17 immunocyte balance. It attenuates inflammation by modulating RANKL/NFATc pathway, resulting in decreased proinflammatory mediators, increased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines and improved tissue integrity. Millet inhibited ROS production and boosted antioxidant status via increasing SOD and GSH and decreasing activity of MPO, MDA and NO. The results highlight the potential of kodo millet as a functional food to manage the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Molecular identification of yeasts involved in the alcoholic fermentation of Tchoukoutou and Atan in Benin using sequencing

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In Benin, the consumption of local beverages is increasing, particularly "Tchoukoutou" and "Atan". However, they face numerous challenges that hinder their recognition as fermented drinks with potential medical and cultural benefits. This study aims to determine the biodiversity of yeasts responsible for the fermentation of "Tchoukoutou" and "Atan" produced in Benin to promote their production and commercialization. To achieve this, beverage samples were randomly collected from six (06) municipalities in Benin and subjected to physicochemical and microbiological analysis. Yeast identification was performed through sequencing of the D1/D2 region of the 26S ribosomal RNA (26S rRNA) gene. Physicochemical analysis revealed that the pH values ranged between 3.65 and 3.92 for "Tchoukoutou" and between 3.71 and 4.04 for "Atan." Regarding sugar content (Brix degree), "Tchoukoutou" values ranged from 1 to 12° Brix, while those of "Atan" ranged from 1° to 14° Brix. Microbiological analysis showed that the yeast count in "Tchoukoutou" and "Atan" was 1.57 × 10³ and 5.29 × 10³ CFU/mL, respectively. A total of five (05) different yeast species were identified in "Tchoukoutou" and six (06) in "Atan". Schizosaccharomyces pombe (44.44%) was the predominant yeast species in the fermentation of "Tchoukoutou", followed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae (22.22%). In contrast, for "Atan", Saccharomyces cerevisiae (53.33%) was the most dominant species, followed by Saccharomyces boulardii (13.33%), and Candida parapsilosis (13.33%). Other yeast species present in lower percentages included Candida parapsilosis (11.11%), Pichia sp. Feni (11.11%) and Pichia manshurica (11.11%) in "Tchoukoutou" and Pichia kudriavzevii (6.66%), Pichia ethanolica (6.66%) and Schizosaccharomyces osmophilus (6.66%) in "Atan". These results indicate that Beninese "Tchoukoutou" and "Atan" fermentation is primarily driven by Schizosaccharomyces pombe, a yeast not commonly found in traditional Benin beverages, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, respectively. This information is valuable for developing genetic engineering strategies to control their alcoholic fermentation, improve packaging, and extend shelf life.

Clinical significance of B7-H4 expression in ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis of proportions and time-to-event survival outcomes

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

B7-H4 is an immune-regulatory molecule increasingly recognized for its role in tumor progression and immune evasion in epithelial ovarian cancer. To clarify its clinical relevance, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the prevalence of B7-H4 expression and its association with survival outcomes. Nineteen eligible studies were included, of which sixteen provided data on expression proportions and eight reported progression-free or overall survival outcomes. The pooled prevalence of high or positive B7-H4 expression was 73%, though with considerable inter-study variability. High B7-H4 expression was associated with a significantly increased risk of disease progression (pooled unadjusted hazard ratio: 1.43), while its relationship with overall survival remained inconclusive due to limited data. Despite methodological differences among studies, the findings suggest B7-H4 is overexpressed and potentially prognostic in ovarian cancer. Additional studies are required to validate its clinical utility in patient risk assessment and as a therapeutic target.

Isolation and characterization of native strains from lithium-containing mining tailings

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Lithium-rich mining tailings create extreme and poorly explored environments that can serve as reservoirs for microorganisms with unique biotechnological potential. In this study, native microorganisms were isolated and molecularly characterized from the tailings of the Nochebuena mine, Zacatecas, Mexico. Six pure cultures were obtained using serial dilution and cross-streaking methods. Lithium tolerance was assessed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, revealing resistance levels between 5,000 and 20,000 ppm LiCl. Molecular characterization involved DNA extraction, amplification, purification, and restriction digestion with the HhaI enzyme, followed by sequencing. The isolates were identified as Stutzerimonas chloritidismutans, Microbacterium paraoxydans, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Bacillus cereus, and Bacillus ludwigii. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to resolve their evolutionary relationships. These findings highlight the untapped microbial diversity in lithium-rich mining residues and its promise for innovative applications in biohydrometallurgy.

Evaluation of heat shock protein 70, AMH, and key hormonal markers in cellular mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome

Ayat Salim Khaleel, Abeer Cheaid Yousif Al-Fatlawi, Wasan Ghazi Abood Al-Safi — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases characterized by hyperandrogenemia and anovulation. The present study aimed to estimate heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70) in PCOS patients. This case-control study involved 90 females aged 15 to 45 years, divided into two groups: 45 controls and 45 PCOS patients. Levels of HSP-70, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, and testosterone were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study revealed a significant increase (p ≤ 0.01) in HSP-70 and AMH levels in PCOS patients compared to controls, with mean ± SD values of 16.49 ± 2.79 and 2386.14 ± 530.09, respectively. Hormonal parameters such as LH, testosterone, and prolactin were elevated, whereas FSH was decreased in PCOS patients. The findings suggest that elevated HSP-70 plays a key role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

Genetic diversity and phylogenetic structure of Marawh and Bidah pomegranate landraces from Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, using ITS DNA barcoding

Abdulaziz Albogami — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) plays a vital cultural and economic role in the Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia. Despite its significance, limited molecular data exist on the genetic structure of local landraces, particularly the distinct red and green fruit colour variants of the Marawh and Bidah cultivars. This study investigates the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships among these landraces using the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) DNA region. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree construction and network analysis (SplitsTree) were employed. Results reveal that red- and green-fruited landraces cluster into distinct clades, with red variants exhibiting reticulate patterns suggestive of introgression or incomplete lineage sorting. Genetic distance analysis confirmed a high similarity (~99.15%) between the green variants, despite their placement in separate clades. The findings provide crucial insights into the evolutionary history, cultivar authentication, and conservation strategies for pomegranate germplasm in Al-Baha. Future directions include genome-wide SNP analyses and expanded sampling to refine our understanding of these valuable genetic resources.

Association of cannabinoid gene polymorphism with neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) in type 2 diabetes mellitus with chronic kidney disease

Maryam Z. Mohammed, Hiba M. Nasir, Nadia M. M. Al-Shakir — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common microvascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Genetic factors, including polymorphisms in the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) gene, may influence the risk and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in diabetic patients. This study aimed to investigate the association of CNR1 gene polymorphisms, specifically single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs1049353 and rs1776966256, with serum levels of kidney injury biomarkers neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) in Iraqi patients with T2DM, with and without CKD. A total of 120 subjects were enrolled and divided into three groups: 40 T2DM patients with CKD, 40 T2DM patients without CKD, and 40 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using conventional polymerase chain reaction followed by Sanger sequencing. Serum NGAL and KIM-1 levels were measured by ELISA. Multiple novel CNR1 gene variants were detected and submitted to the NCBI database. The heterozygous GA genotype of rs1049353 was more prevalent in the CKD group compared to others, although not statistically significant. The rs773947953 (G>A) variant showed significant association with CKD, where the A allele appeared protective. Significant correlations were also observed between NGAL, KIM-1 levels, and specific SNP genotypes, including rs773947953 and new variations at positions 4217 (G>A) and 4224 (rs2481890897). These findings suggest that CNR1 gene polymorphisms influence susceptibility to diabetic kidney injury and are associated with elevated tubular injury markers. Identification of these genetic variations may help in early prediction and personalized management of DKD.

Impact of regional and general aerobic exercise on molecular regulators of lipolysis and adipose tissue composition in obese women

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of regional, general, and combined aerobic training on plasma lipolytic markers and subcutaneous fat reduction in obese women with abdominal or gluteofemoral fat accumulation. Sixty women (age 25–50 years; BMI ≥30 kg/m²) were assigned to general aerobic training (GATG; treadmill/cycling), regional aerobic training (RTG; targeted abdominal or lower-body rhythmic exercises), or combined training (CTG; 15 min general + 15 min regional), performed three times per week for 12 weeks at 55–75% heart rate reserve. Dietary intake was monitored to ensure no major changes. Anthropometric indices (weight, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio [WHR]) and plasma free fatty acids (FFAs), glycerol, and insulin were measured pre- and post-intervention. All groups demonstrated significant reductions in weight, BMI, WHR, and biochemical markers (p<0.05). The CTG achieved the greatest improvements: weight −6.38%, BMI −6.30%, WHR −13.13%, accompanied by the largest declines in FFAs, glycerol, and insulin. GATG showed superior systemic fat loss compared to RTG, but RTG still produced notable WHR and insulin reductions, suggesting a complementary role for localized exercise. The superior outcomes in CTG may reflect synergistic effects of global cardiovascular activation and targeted regional muscle engagement, potentially enhancing both systemic lipolysis and local adipose tissue responsiveness. Biochemical improvements, particularly reductions in fasting FFAs and glycerol, indicate enhanced adipocyte insulin sensitivity and lipid utilization. The pronounced insulin decline in CTG is clinically relevant for metabolic risk reduction. While “spot reduction” remains controversial, these findings support integrating regional movements within broader aerobic programs to address resistant fat depots. This study suggests that combining general and regional aerobic training offers a practical, scalable approach for improving metabolic health and body composition in obese women. Future research should employ imaging-based fat quantification, hormonal profiling, and long-term follow-up to clarify underlying mechanisms and optimize depot-specific exercise prescriptions.

Healthcare-associated infections: an overview of global strategies and challenges in minimizing infection transmission

Adil Abalkhail, Eman Marzouk — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a major cause of mortality, significantly impacting morbidity rates. They can occur during hospital care or 3 to 30 days after discharge. In developing countries, ten patients acquire at least one HAI for every 100 hospital admissions, compared to seven in high-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines HAIs as infections that may develop 2 to 3 days after admission or discharge, often undetected at hospital presentation. Many pathogens have developed antibiotic resistance, limiting effective treatments. This review summarizes international initiatives to combat HAIs, based on a literature review using Google Scholar and PubMed. Handwashing remains a key method for preventing HAIs, relying on strict adherence to hygiene protocols by nursing professionals. Maintaining a safe medical environment reduces the transmission of harmful bacteria, especially multi-drug-resistant pathogens. Hand hygiene and antibiotic stewardship are essential for preserving antibiotic effectiveness. Vaccine development can help mitigate HAIs by targeting multidrug-resistant organisms like Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium difficile. A comprehensive understanding of prevention strategies and challenges is urgently needed.