Establishment and validation of bioactivity measurement method for recombinant human midkine / 药学学报

To establish and optimize a method for the detection of recombinant human midkine (rhMK) activity and verify its methodology, cell counting kit-8 (cck-8) method was used to measure the proliferation activity of rat knee chondrocytes. The specificity, accuracy, precision, linearity and robustness of the method were also verified in this study. The established method was proven to have good specificity because the buffer of rhMK and recombinant human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist have no obvious active effect; the recoveries of the samples with relative activities of 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, 150% were in the range of 80.0% to 124.0% by statistical analysis, the relative standard deviations (RSD) of relative potency were all within 20%, the linear correlation coefficient, R2 ≥ 0.98, suggesting that the accuracy, precision and linearity of the method were good; the robustness correlation coefficient, R2 ≥ 0.92 and the ratio of maximum to minimum of sigmoidal dose-response were no less than 1.5, indicating that robustness of the methods was good. In conclusion, a bioactivity measurement method for rhMK was established and fully validated in this study and it provides a reliable method for the bioactivity analysis of rhMK routine samples during the development. This study was approved by the Animal Care and Use Committee of Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc. (approval number: 2019-0008-06).

Physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic repair material

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic material, Bio-C Repair (Angelus), in comparison with White MTA (Angelus) and Biodentine (Septodont). The physicochemical properties of setting time, radiopacity, pH, solubility, dimensional and volumetric changes were evaluated. Biocompatibility and bioactivity were assessed in Saos-2 osteoblast cell cultures by the MTT assay 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), Neutral Red (NR), Alizarin Red (ARS), and cell migration tests. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA, Tukey or Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). Bio-C Repair had the longest setting time (p < 0.05), but radiopacity and solubility were accordance with the ISO 6876/2012 standards, besides linear expansion. Bio-C Repair and MTA had similar volumetric change (p > 0.05); lower than Biodentine (p < 0.05). All the materials evaluated had an alkaline pH. Bio-C Repair was cytocompatible and promoted mineralized nodule deposition in 21 days and cell migration in 3 days. In conclusion, Bio-C Repair had adequate radiopacity above 3mm Al, solubility less than 3%, dimensional expansion, and low volumetric change. In addition, Bio-C Repair promoted an alkaline pH and presented bioactivity and biocompatibility similar to MTA and Biodentine, showing potential for use as a repair material.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas, citotoxicidade e bioatividade de um novo material biocerâmico pronto para uso, Bio-C Repair (Angelus), em comparação com MTA Branco (Angelus) e Biodentine (Septodont). Foram avaliadas as propriedades físico-químicas de tempo de presa, radiopacidade, pH, solubilidade, alterações dimensionais e volumétricas. A biocompatibilidade, bioatividade e capacidade de reparo foram avaliadas em culturas de células de osteoblastos Saos-2 pelo ensaio MTT brometo de 3-(4,5-dimetiltiazol-2-il)-2,5-difeniltetrazólio), vermelho neutro (NR), vermelho de alizarina ( ARS) e testes de migração celular. A análise estatística foi realizada pelos testes ANOVA, Tukey ou Bonferroni (α = 0,05). Bio-C Repair apresentou o maior tempo de presa (p < 0,05), mas radiopacidade e solubilidade de acordo com as normas ISO 6876/2012, além de expansão linear. Bio-C Repair e MTA tiveram variação volumétrica semelhante (p > 0,05), menor que Biodentine (p < 0,05). Todos os materiais avaliados apresentaram pH alcalino. Bio-C Repair foi citocompatível, além de promover deposição de nódulos mineralizados em 21 dias e migração celular em 3 dias. Em conclusão, o Bio-C Repair apresentou radiopacidade adequada acima de 3mmAl, solubilidade menor que 3%, expansão dimensional e baixa perda volumétrica.. Além disso, o Bio-C Repair promoveu um pH alcalino e apresentou bioatividade e biocompatibilidade semelhantes ao MTA e Biodentine, mostrando potencial para uso como material reparador

A novel bioassay to assess bioactivity of PEG-rhGH using Nb2-11 cells / 药学学报

In this study, we established a novel bioassay to determine the activity of polyethylene glycolated recombinant human growth hormone (PEG-rhGH) using Nb2-11 cells. We performed experimental condition optimization and methodological verification, and then detected the relative potency of PEG-rhGH products using this method. We demonstrated that the bioactivity of PEG-rhGH in promoting Nb2-11 cell proliferation displays a dose-response relationship, which conformed to the four-parameter model. Using PEG-rhGH reference as a control, we analyzed the relative potency of six batches of PEG-rhGH products, as well as linearity, regression and parallelism of the obtained curves. The relative potency of six batches of PEG-rhGH products was 95% to 105%. These results implied that the new bioassay established may be employed in quality control of PEG-rhGH products.

Proteins: Neglected active ingredients in edible bird's nest / 中草药·英文版

Edible bird's nest (EBN) is a kind of natural invigorant with a long history of consumption in Asia, especially in China. EBN is formed by mixing the saliva of swiftlets (Aerodramus) with feathers and other components during the breeding season. Proteins are the most important nutrient in EBN. By studying proteins in EBN, we can not only elucidate their components at the molecular level, but also study their bioactivities. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the proteins in EBN. Previous research on the proteins in EBN was preliminary and cursory, and no one has summarized and analyzed the proteins in EBN and correlated the bioactivities of these proteins with the biological functions of EBN. This article focused on the proteins in EBN, listed the proteins identified in different proteomic studies, and introduced the sources, structures and bioactivities of the most frequently identified proteins, including acidic mammalian chitinase, lysyl oxidase homolog 3, mucin-5AC, ovoinhibitor, nucleobindin-2, calcium-binding protein (MW: 4.5 × 104) and glucose-regulated protein (MW: 7.8 × 104). The properties of these proteins are closely related to the bioactivities of EBN. Therefore, this article can provide inspiration for further research on the efficacy of EBN.

Extraction and bioactivity analysis of total protein of K326 tobacco leaves with high expression of Nicotiala alata defensin 1 gene / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To extract the total protein of K326 tobacco leaves with high expression of Nicotiana alata defensin 1(NaD1) gene and analyze its bioactivity.Methods Total proteins were extracted from Nicotiana alata flowers,wild type(WT) and K326 tobacco leaves(transgenic) with high expression of NaD1 gene,and determined for the concentrations by Bardford method,while for the antibacterial activity against fungi by filter paper method,and for the inhibition activity on cancer cells(HeLa cells) by CCK-8.Results The total protein concentrations of Nicotiana alata flowers,WT and transgenic K326 tobacco leaves were 11.25,10.33 and 10.14 mg/mL,respectively.The antibacterial activity of total protein from transgenic K326 tobacco leaves against Candida albicans was(85.68±3.08)%,which was 1.33 and 1.14 times that of total protein from WT K326 tobacco leaves and Nicotiana alata flowers,respectively(F=15 339,P <0.05);The antibacterial activity against Fusarium oxysporum was(148.48±2.47)%,which was 1.09 and 1.08 times that of total protein from WT K326tobacco leaves and Nicotiana alata flowers,respectively(F=4.927,P <0.05).The IC_(50) value of transgenic K326 tobacco leaf protein on HeLa cells was the smallest(6.11 mg/mL),and the inhibitory activity was 1.56 and 1.21 times that of total protein of WT K326 tobacco leaves and Nicotiana alata flowers,respectively(F=89.748,P <0.05).Conclusion The total protein of K326 tobacco with high expression of NaD1 gene has good antibacterial and anticancer bioactivities,which provides an experimental basis for producing antibacterial and anticancer biological agents with tobacco as bioreactor.

Steroids and dihydroisocoumarin glycosides from Xylaria sp. by the one strain many compounds strategy and their bioactivities / 中国天然药物

The fungus Xylaria sp. KYJ-15 was isolated from Illigera celebica. Based on the one strain many compounds (OSMAC) strategy, the strain was fermented on potato and rice solid media, respectively. As a result, two novel steroids, xylarsteroids A (1) and B (2), which are the first examples of C28-steroid with an unusual β- and γ-lactone ring, respectively, along with two new dihydroisocoumarin glycosides, xylarglycosides A (3) and B (4), were identified. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, X-ray diffraction and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) experiments. All isolated compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory and antimicrobial effect. Compound 1 exhibited potent AChE inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 2.61 ± 0.05 μmol·L-1. The β-lactone ring unit of 1 is critical for its AChE inhibitory activity. The finding was further confirmed through exploring the interaction of 1 with AChE by molecular docking. In addition, both compounds 1 and 2 exhibited obvious antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2 μg·mL-1. Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus with MICs of 4 and 2 μg·mL-1, respectively, which also exhibited DPPH radical scavenging activity comparable to the positive control with IC50 values of 9.2 ± 0.03 and 13.3 ± 0.01 μmol·L-1, respectively.

Bioactivity and biocompatibility of bioceramic sealers in endodontics: an integrative review

Introduction: Bioceramic sealers have been gaining prominence in endodontics, meaning a great advance for endodontic therapy, mainly due to their biocompatibility and bioactivity. Objectives: research and discuss the literature about the bioactivity and biocompatibility of bioceramic sealants. Materials and methods: An integrative review was performed. The systematic plan consisted of four steps. In the first stage, a bibliographic survey was carried out in the Capes Periódicos Portal database. The search criteria were articles published between 2017 and 2022, found in the "advanced search" mode, using cross-references with the following keywords: bioceramics sealers AND endodontology AND root canals AND endodontic sealer AND bioactivity AND biocompatibility. Only documents found and published in full were evaluated. In the second stage, the titles and abstracts of the articles were read. In the third stage, a selection was made of those containing 3 to 5 keywords and a wording equal to or close to the proposed keywords. The fourth step consisted of reading the texts in full, followed by checking for duplicity and building a table with the collected information. Results: In view of the research carried out, 23 articles were obtained in the first stage. After reading the titles and abstracts, 21 articles were obtained. After selecting those containing 3 to 5 keywords, 10 articles met the criteria. One article was deleted due to duplicates. 9 articles met the exclusion and inclusion criteria and were selected to be part of the integrative review. Discussion: The selected studies in this literature review showed that bioceramic endodontic sealants perform well in endodontic therapy. Conclusion: To advance in its clinical application, more in vivo and in vitro studies with precise methods are needed to obtain more reliable data about its properties.

Bioactive phenolic compounds and organic acids in the decoction of fruits and leaves of Schinus areira L / Compuestos fenólicos bioactivos y ácidos orgánicos en la decocción de frutos y hojas de Schinus areira L

Leaf and fruit decoctions of Schinus areira L. from northwest Argentina were investigated here. Phenolic compounds and organic acids were analyzed by HPLC. Antioxidant capacity and α-glucosidase inhibition were determined by using in vitro tests. The general toxicity was assessed against Artemia salina nauplii. Hyperoside and 3 O-caffeoylquinic acid in leaf decoctions; gallic acid and catechin in fruit decoction were the major phenolic compounds. Malic and citric acids were the main organic acid quantified in the leaf and fruit decoctions, respectively. Fruit decoction had a relatively important content of shikimic acid, precursor of Tamiflu. Leaf decoction presents a greater richness in bioactive compounds with antiradical activity against DPPH●, O2●-and ●NO radicals. S. areira leaves and fruits had α-glucosidase inhibitory activity comparable to hyperoside and acarbose. Fruit decoction was not eco-toxic; leaf decoction showed significant eco-toxic activity and could be chosen for the search of other bioactive compounds with pharmacological activity.

Se investigaron decocciones de hojas y frutos de Schinus areira L. del noroeste de Argentina. Compuestos fenólicos y ácidos orgánicos se analizaron mediante HPLC. Capacidad antioxidante e inhibición de α-glucosidasa se determinaron in vitro. Se evaluó toxicidad general con Artemia salina. Los principales compuestos fenólicos fueron hiperósido y ácido 3 O-cafeoilquínico en hojas y ácido gálico y catequina en frutos. Los principales ácidos orgánicos cuantificados fueron málico en hojas y cítrico en frutos. Ácido shikímico, precursor del Tamiflu está presente en decocción de frutos con un contenido relativamente importante. La de hojas presenta una mayor riqueza en compuestos bioactivos con actividad antirradicalaria frente a DPPH●, O2●-y ●NO. Las hojas y frutos de S. areira tenían una actividad inhibidora de la α-glucosidasa comparable a la de hiperósido y acarbosa. La decocción de frutas no fue eco-tóxica, pero sí la de hojas que podría ser fuente de compuestos bioactivos con actividad farmacológica.

Tithonia diversifolia Powder and Compost Ameliorate Plant Growth Parameters, Essential Oils, Phenols and Flavonoids Content and Anticandida Activity of Ocimum gratissimum L.

Aims: Ocimum gratissimum is an aromatic and medicinal plant, well known for its medicinal values such as antifungal properties. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of T. diversifolia powder and compost use as biofertilizer on the growth parameters, essential oil (EO), total phenolic and flavonoid content and anticandida activity of O. gratissimum. Study Design: O. gratissimum plants were cultivated for 8 months in an experimental farm designed as a split plot into 4 blocks. Each block was amended (main factor) either with T. diversifolia compost (150 g/plant), powder (40 g/plant) or the synthetic fertilizer NPK (10 g/plant), respectively, followed by sprayed (second factor) with same fertilizer at 20 g/L, 20 g/L and 2 g/L or water every two weeks after transplantation. The control block received no amendment and was sprayed with water or the previous fertilizer. Place and Duration of Study: This work was carried out within August 2019 to October 2020 in Yaoundé-Cameroon. Methodology: Plant growth parameters (fresh and dry leaves weight, florescent weight and plant height) were evaluated at four and eight months after transplantation. The harvested fresh leaves were hydrodistillated for EO and the hot aqueous extract. Both extracts were used for the evaluation of the anticandida activity while the latter was submitted to total flavonoids and phenolic analyses. Results: At 4 and 8 months after transplantation, the synthetic fertilizer and T. diversifolia compost significantly increased plant growth parameters as compared to other treatments. The plants treated with T. diversifolia biofertilizer compost showed the highest total phenolic (53.16 µg GAE/µL), flavonoid (36.32 µg// GAE/µL) content, and EO yield (0.666%). The EO from O. gratissimum treated with T. diversifolia compost showed the best inhibitory activity on C. albicans NR-29451. Conclusion: This study showed that T. diversifolia compost was a promising organic fertilizer in optimizing the growth, secondary metabolites and anticandida activity of O. gratissimum.

Cápsulas de polvo de arándano como propuesta nutracéutica para mejorar la bioaccesibilidad de compuestos fenólicos / Blueberry Powder capsules as a nutraceutical proposal to improve bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds. Introduction

El arándano (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) posee un alto contenido de compuestos fenólicos los cuales han sido estudiados principalmente por su actividad antioxidante, antiobesogénica, antiinflamatoria, entre otras. Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de la digestión gastrointestinal in vitro sobre la bioaccesibilidad de compuestos fenólicos y actividad antioxidante de una formulación nutracéutica de arándano (cápsula), comparado con arándano fresco y polvo. Materiales y métodos. Se obtuvieron extractos metanólicos de muestras de arándano fresco y liofilizado y se determinó su contenido de fenoles, flavonoides y antocianinas totales, así como también actividad antioxidante. Se llevó a cabo un ensayo de simulación de digestión gastrointestinal para evaluar la bioaccesibilidad de los compuestos fenólicos presentes en las muestras. Resultados. Los resultados mostraron que la digestión gástrica de arándano en polvo y en cápsula promovió una mayor bioaccesibilidad de fenoles (42% y 40%), flavonoides (52% y 33%) y antocianinas (45% y 40%) comparado con digestos de arándano fresco. Posterior a la digestión intestinal, la bioaccesibilidad de fenoles (63%) y flavonoides (67%) fue mayor en la cápsula de arándano comparada con su contraparte arándano en polvo. Las condiciones de digestión intestinal afectaron negativamente la bioaccesibilidad de las antocianinas independientemente del tipo de muestra evaluada. Conclusión. Las condiciones de digestión gástrica promueven una mayor estabilidad de los compuestos fenólicos en arándano en polvo y en cápsula lo que pudiera ser relevante para el mantenimiento de un ambiente antioxidante a este nivel. Las condiciones de digestión intestinal afectaron de manera particular a los compuestos fenólicos de arándano fresco y polvo, pero no a la cápsula, lo que puede sugerir que el encapsulamiento protegió de las condiciones alcalinas a los fenoles presentes. Se sugieren estudios posteriores sobre absorción in vitro de los componentes remanentes en intestino y sus posibles efectos sobre biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en modelos in vivo(AU)

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) has a high content of phenolic compounds which have been studied mainly for their antioxidant, antiobesogenic, anti-inflammatory activity, among others. Objetive. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of a nutraceutical formulation of blueberry (capsule), compared to fresh and powder blueberry. Materials and methods. Methanolic extracts of fresh and lyophilized blueberry were obtained and determined its total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins content, as well as antioxidant activity. A gastrointestinal digestion simulation test also was carried out to assess the bioaccessibility of the phenolic compounds found in samples. Results. The results showed that gastric digestion of powder and capsule blueberry promoted greater bioaccessibility of phenols (42% and 40%), flavonoids (52% and 33%) and anthocyanins (45% and 40%), compared to fresh blueberry digests. After intestinal digestion, the bioaccessibility of phenols (63%) and flavonoids (67%) was higher in the blueberry capsule compared to its powdered blueberry counterpart. The intestinal digestion conditions negatively affected the bioaccessibility of anthocyanins regardless of the type of sample evaluated. Conclusion. Gastric digestion conditions promote greater stability of phenolic compounds in powdered and capsule blueberries, which could be relevant for the maintenance of an antioxidant environment at this level. The intestinal digestion conditions particularly affected the phenolic compounds of fresh and lyophilized blueberry, but not the capsule, which may suggest that encapsulation protected the phenols present from alkaline conditions. Further studies on in vitro absorption of the remaining components in the intestine and their possible effects on oxidative stress biomarkers in in vivo models are suggested(AU)

Immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides from Brassica rapa by activating Akt/NF-κB signaling / 中草药·英文版

Objective: To investigate the immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides from the roots of Brassica rapa. Methods: The crude polysaccharide from roots of B. rapa (BRP) was extracted and purified to further investigate the active fraction of BRT for inducing macrophage phagocytosis. Results: Effects on RAW264.7 cells demonstrated that BRP behaved better phagocytic capacity and had potent immunomodulatory activity, including increasing production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and upregulating mRNA levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and TNFα. Furthermore, modulation of macrophage by BRP was indicated to be mediated via the activation of Akt and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Conclusion: The beneficial effects of BRP could be used as an immunotherapeutic adjuvant in treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Bioprospecting as a strategy for conservation and sustainable use of the Brazilian Flora / Bioprospecção como estratégia para a conservação e uso sustentável da Flora Brasileira

Abstract In Brazil, research with natural products had a strong impulse when FAPESP supported the creation of the Laboratory of Chemistry of Natural Products of the Institute of Chemistry of USP (1966). In 1999, FAPESP launched the Research Program in the Characterization, Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity (BIOTA-FAPESP), which intensified the sustainable exploitation of biodiversity, and which evolved to form the Biota Network for Bioprospection and Bioassays (BIOprospecTA), which integrates groups from all over the country, optimizing the use of the skills already installed for the bioprospecting of microorganisms, plants, invertebrates, vertebrates and marine organisms. Of the 104 projects related to plant sciences, 35 carried out bioprospection of Brazilian flora, belonging to the areas of Chemistry, Botany, Genetics, Plant Physiology, Plant Morphology, Plant (Chemo)taxonomy, Ecosystem Ecology, Plant Genetics. Physical Sciences, Forest Resources, Forestry Engineering, Agronomy, leading to thousands of publications, engagement of hundreds of students and a deeper understanding of natural products in different biological models through macromolecules analysis aided by computational and spectrometric strategies, in addition to pharmacological evaluations. The development of omics approaches led to a more comprehensive view of the chemical profile of an organism, and enabled integrated and concomitant studies of several samples, and faster annotation of known molecules, through the use of hyphenated and chemometric techniques, and molecular networking. This also helped to overcome the lack of information on the safety and efficacy of herbal preparations, in projects dealing with the standardization of herbal products, according to international standards. The BIOTA-FAPESP program has also focused on environmental aspects, in accordance with the principles of Green Chemistry and has had positive effects on international collaboration, on the number and impact of scientific publications and on partnership with companies, a crucial step to add value and expand the production chain of bioproducts. Also, the compilation, systematization and sharing of data were contemplated with the creation of the NUBBEDB database, of free access, and that integrates with international databases (ACD/labs, American Chemical Society - ACS), helping researchers and companies in the development from different areas of science, technology, strengthening the bioeconomy and subsidizing public policies.

Resumo No Brasil, as pesquisas com produtos naturais tiveram um forte impulso quando a FAPESP apoiou a criação do Laboratório de Química de Produtos Naturais do Instituto de Química da USP (1966). Em 1999, a FAPESP lançou o Programa de Pesquisa em Caracterização, Conservação, Restauração e Uso Sustentável da Biodiversidade (BIOTA-FAPESP), que intensificou a exploração sustentável da biodiversidade, e que evoluiu para formar a Rede Biota de Bioprospecção e Bioensaios (BIOprospecTA), que integra grupos de todo o país, otimizando o aproveitamento das competências já instaladas para a bioprospecção de microrganismos, plantas, invertebrados, vertebrados e organismos marinhos. Dos 104 projetos relacionados às ciências vegetais, 35 realizaram a bioprospecção da flora brasileira, em diversas áreas como Química, Botânica, Fisiologia e Morfologia Vegetal, (Quimio)taxonomia Vegetal, Ecologia de Ecossistemas, Genética Vegetal, Recursos Florestais, Engenharia Florestal, dentre outros, levando a milhares de publicações, ao engajamento de centenas de estudantes e ao entendimento mais profundo dos produtos naturais em diferentes modelos biológicos por meio da análise de micromoléculas auxiliada por estratégias computacionais e espectrométricas, além de avaliações farmacológicas. O desenvolvimento de abordagens ômicas ampliou a visão sobre perfil químico dos organismos, possibilitou o estudo integrado e concomitante de várias amostras, e a anotação mais rápida de moléculas conhecidas, por meio do uso de técnicas hifenadas, quimiométricas e redes moleculares. Isso também contribuiu para superar a falta de informação sobre a segurança e eficácia dos fitopreparados, em projetos que tratam da padronização de produtos fitoterápicos, de acordo com normas internacionais. O programa BIOTA-FAPESP também tem focado em aspectos ambientais, de acordo com os princípios da Química Verde e teve reflexos positivos na colaboração internacional, no número e no impacto das publicações científicas e na parceria com empresas, etapa crucial para agregar valor e expandir a cadeia produtiva de bioprodutos. Ainda, a compilação, sistematização e compartilhamento de dados foram contemplados com a criação da base de dados NUBBEDB, de livre acesso, e que se integra com bases internacionais (ACD/labs, American Chemical Society - ACS), auxiliando pesquisadores e empresas no desenvolvimento de diferentes áreas da ciência, tecnologia, fortalecendo a bioeconomia e subsidiando políticas públicas.

Formulation and evaluation of the vascular endothelial growth factor loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles

Abstract In an attempt to increase molecular stability and provide controlled release, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was encapsulated into polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles. Both VEGF-free and VEGF-loaded PCL nanoparticles were formulated by w/o/w double emulsion of the dichloromethane-water system in the presence of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and rat serum albumin. To achieve the optimal formulation concerning particle size and monodispersity, studies were carried out with different formulation parameters, including PVA concentration, homogenization time and rate. Scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis showed respectively that particles had a spherical shape with a smooth surface and particle size varying between 58.68-751.9 nm. All of the formulations were negatively charged according to zeta potential analysis. In vitro release study was performed in pH 7.4 phosphate-buffered saline at 37°C and released VEGF amount was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. At the end of the 35th day, 10% of total encapsulated VEGF was released with a sustained-release profile, which fitted the Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic model. The bioactivation of the nanoparticles was evaluated using XTT and ELISA methods. As a result, the released VEGF was biologically active and also VEGF loaded PCL nanoparticles enhanced proliferation of the human umbilical vein endothelial cells in cell culture.

The effect of adding ytterbium trifluoride on the radiopacity, compressive strength, setting time and bioactivity of biodentine: an in vitro study / Efeito da adição de trifluoreto de itérbio na radiopacidade, resistência à compressão, tempo de presa e bioatividade da biodentina: estudo in vitro

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the radiopacity, compressive strength, setting time and bioactivity of Biodentine after modification with Ytterbium Tri-Fluoride (YbF3) in three different concentrations. Material and Methods: Radiopacity was determined using the equivalence in millimeters of aluminum (mm Al) from digital radiographs. Compressive strength was evaluated using a universal testing machine. The initial and final setting times were evaluated using Gillmore needle. The bioactive potential was evaluated using the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) connected with Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) at three different time intervals. pH was measured using a pH-meter. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc tests (P≤ 0.05). Results: Radiopacity of Biodentine with 2.5%, 5% and 7.5% YbF3 was significantly higher than unmodified Biodentine (P ≤ 0.05). Unmodified Biodentine showed the highest mean compressive strength values compared to all other groups (p≤ 0.05). The addition of YbF3 to Biodentine has extended the final setting time except for the 2.5% YbF3 group that showed no significant difference compared to the control. All groups showed an alkaline pH at 28 days, ESEM coupled with EDX analysis showed evidence of dense globules of calcium phosphate on the surface indicating enhancement of bioactivity. Conclusion: 2.5% YbF3 can be a promising radiopacifying agent to Biodentine with improvement in radiopacity, bioactive potential and maintaining the setting time and compressive strength at acceptable level as indicated by the ISO standards (AU)

Objetivo: O estudo buscou avaliar a radiopacidade, resistência à compressão, tempo de presa e bioatividade da Biodentina modificada por Trifluoreto de itérbio (YbF3). Materiais e Métodos: YbF3 foi incorporado ao pó de Biodentina e dividido em 4 grupos (X0, X1, X2 e X3) de acordo com a concentração de YbF3; 0%, 2.5%, 5% e 7.5% do peso, respectivamente. Os espécimes foram preparados para cada experimento com um total de 40 espécimes para cada teste (n=10 por grupo). A radiopacidade foi determinada através do uso equivalente em milímetros de alumínio. A resistência a compressão foi avaliada através do uso de uma máquina de teste universal. O tempo inicial e final foi avaliado através de uma agulha de Gillmore. O potencial bioativo foi avaliado através do Microscópio Eletrônico de Varredura (ESEM), conectado com a análise de espectroscopia de raios X por energia dispersiva (EDX) e difração de raio X (DRX). O pH foi mensurado através do uso de um pHmetro. Os dados foram analisados pelo ANOVA seguido do Test Tukey. Resultados: A radiopacidade nos grupos X1, X2 e X3 foi significantemente maior do que no grupo X0. O grupo X0 mostrou a maior resistência à compressão comparado com os outros grupos. A adição de YbF3 a Biodentina excedeu o tempo final exceto pelo grupo X1, que não apresentou diferença estatística significante quando comparado com o grupo X0. Todos os grupos apresentaram um pH alcalino com 28 dias. ESEM com análise EDX mostrou evidência de densos glóbulos de fosfato de cálcio na superfície, indicando uma melhora na bioatividade. Conclusão: 2.5% YbF3 é um promissor radiopacificador para Biodentina, que aumentou a radiopacidade e potencial bioativo enquanto manteve o tempo definido e a resistência à compressão em níveis aceitáveis como indica a norma ISO.(AU)

Ex Vivo Analysis of MTA FLOW® Biomineralization and Push-Out Strength: A Pilot Study / Análisis ex vivo del proceso de biomineralización y resistencia al desplazamiento del MTA FLOW®: Estudio piloto

Abstract: This study evaluated the biomineralization processes and push-out strength of MTA Flow® with radicular dentine in three different consistencies. The push-out test was performed on an ex vivo model, using 2mm thick dentin discs from the middle third of the root with standardized cavities of 1.5 mm. Samples were filled with MTA-Angelus (Angelus Dental, Brazil), Biodentine (Septodont, France), MTA Flow® Putty (Ultradent, USA), MTA Flow® Thick or MTA Flow® Thin. The samples were divided into 3 groups: subgroup 1 (n=5), analysis of the biomineralization process; 2 (n=20), evaluation of the bonding strength and push-out resistance; and 3 (n=5), evaluation of the cement/ dentin interface. The samples filled with Biodentine had a higher precipitation of carbonate apatite. However, there was no significant difference between MTA-Angelus, MTA Flow® Putty, or Thick (p=0.0536), but there was a significant difference in the Thin group (P<0.05). The samples with Biodentine displayed the greatest release of calcium ions. The formation of a partially carbonated intermediate apatite layer was observed in all groups. Zones of biomineralization were observed at the interface but were not continuous. After 72 hours, a significant difference was found between the Biodentine and MTA Flow® Thin groups (p=0.0090) in the push-out test. The samples submerged in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for 15 days showed a significant difference between all groups and MTA Flow® Thin (p=0.0147). Putty or Thick consistencies presented a similar bonding strength to MTA-Angelus and Biodentine. MTA Flow® Putty and Thick consistencies show a good adaptation to dentin, similar to MTA-Angelus. However, the thickness of the interface was lower compared to that of Biodentine. MTA Flow® Thin, despite their tubular infiltration, results in gaps and a defective peripheral seal.Therefore, MTA Flow®, in Putty or Thick consistencies, presents a biomineralization process and push-out strength similar to MTA Angelus and Biodentine, however, both characteristics decreases considerably in Thin consistency.

Resumen: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar, en un modelo ex vivo, el proceso de biomineralización y fuerza de adhesión del MTA Flow® en sus tres diferentes consistencias por medio de la prueba de resistencia al desplazamiento (Push-out). Se utilizaron discos de dentina de 2mm de espesor del tercio medio radicular con cavidades estandarizadas de 1.5mm de diámetro, las cuales se obturaron con diferentes materiales entre ellos: MTA Angelus (Angelus Dental, Brasil), Biodentine (Septodont, Francia), MTA Flow® Consistencia Putty (Ultradent, E.E.U.U), MTA Flow® Consistencia Thick (Ultradent, E.E.U.U) y MTA Flow® Consistencia Thin (Ultradent, E.E.U.U). Las muestras se sometieron al proceso de biomineralización y a pruebas de Push-out. Las muestras obturadas con Biodentine promovieron una mayor precipitación de apatita carbonatada, sin embargo, no se presentó diferencia estadística significativa con respecto al MTA Angelus, MTA Flow® Putty ni Thick (p=0.0536). No obstante, si presentó una diferencia significativa con respecto al grupo de MTA Flow® consistencia Thin (P<0.05). Las muestras con Biodentine presentaron la mayor liberación de iones calcio. De acuerdo a las pruebas de resistencia al desplazamiento, a las 72 horas post-obturación, solamente se encontró diferencia significativa entre las muestras obturadas con Biodentine y las correspondientes al MTA Flow consistencia Thin (p=0.0090), sin embargo las muestras sumergidas 15 días en PBS presentaron diferencia significativa entre todos los grupos con respecto al MTA Flow Thin (p=0.0147). En general se observaron zonas de biomineralización en la interface, sin embargo, no fueron continuas. Se concluye que el MTA Flow en consistencia Putty o Thick presenta un proceso de biomineralización y una resistencia al desplazamiento similar al MTA Angelus y al Biodentine, sin embargo, esta última disminuye considerablemente en presentación Thin.

Chemical constituents and biological activities of essential oils of Amomum genus (Zingiberaceae)

Amomum Roxb. includes the aromatic and medicinal plants native to tropical and subtropical Asia belonging to the family Zingiberaceae. Members of Amomum genus have been used for a long time in traditional medicine for the treatment of throat trouble, congestion of lungs, inflammation of eyelids, and digestive disorders, etc. Amomum essential oils have been studied for their chemical profiles in which limonene, allo-aromadendrene, 1,8-cineole, camphor, farnesyl acetate, α-pinene, β-pinene, caryophyllene, camphene, D-camphor, santolina triene, methyl chavicol, bornyl acetate, β-elemene, δ-3-carene, etc. were the major compounds. Furthermore, the oils extracted from Amomum plants have been reported to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, insecticidal, larvicidal, cytotoxic, anti-scabies, and anti-inflammatory activities. This review focuses on the chemical constituents and biological activities of the essential oils isolated from the different plant parts of Amomum plants. The objective of the present review is to highlight therapeutic potentials and provide evidence for future medicinal applications of these species of genus Amomum.

Biosynthesis of Graphene and Investigation of Antibacterial Activity of Graphene-parthenium hysterophorous Nanocomposite

Abstract There is a great interest to use carbon-based material like graphene and graphene oxide in biomedical applications due to its flexibility to be functionalized with bio-active molecules. Herein, graphene and graphene-based nanocomposites were biosynthesized by liquid-phase exfoliation of graphite using aqueous extract of Parthenium hysterophorous (P-H) as a surfactant. A set of five thin film samples of graphene was prepared from graphene suspension by vacuum filtration method. Samples were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and XRD, which revealed successful synthesis of graphene. Graphene/P-H(G/P-H) nanocomposites comprising varied ratios of graphene and P-H were prepared and their antibacterial activity was investigated by agar well diffusion method. The experimental results indicated that G/P-H nanocomposite have higher antibacterial activity than graphene alone, and bioactivity of G/P-H nanocomposite was found to be controlled by the fraction of graphene in the composite.

Study on the intervention of platelet biological activity by ultrasound / 生物医学工程学杂志

Platelets are non-nucleated blood effector cells, which plays an important role in coagulation, hemostasis, and thrombosis. However, platelets are extremely susceptible to activation by external stimuli, which in turn damages the platelet's natural biological activity and affects its biological function. Platelet biological activity has become a hotspot in the field of vascular diseases. In this study, ultrasound parameters (ultrasound intensity and duration time) were used to intervene in the biological activity of platelets. The response of platelets to ultrasound energy was explored from the aspects of platelet morphology, aggregation ability and particle release (the expression of P-selectin and the number of particles). The results showed that the ultrasound intensity of 0.25 W/cm

Novel angucycline/angucyclinone family of natural products discovered between 2010 and 2020 / 生物工程学报

Angucyclines/angucyclinones are a large group of polycyclic aromatic polyketides and their producers are widely distributed in nature. This family of natural products attracts great attention because of their diverse biological activities and unique chemical structures. With the development of synthetic biology and the exploitation of the actinomycetes from previously unexplored environments, angucyclines/angucyclinones-like natural products with new skeletons were continuously discovered, thus enriching the structural diversity of this family. In this review we summarize the new angucyclines/angucyclinones analogues discovered in the last decade (2010-2020) by using different strategies, such as changing cultivation conditions, genetic modification, genome mining, bioactivity-guided compound isolation, and fermentation of actinomycetes from underexplored environments. We also discuss the role of synthetic biology in the discovery and development of new compounds of the angucycline/angucyclinone family.

Value assignment study on bioactivity of monoclonal antibody working reference standard / 药学学报

The bioactivity of a working reference standard was determined by replicate bioassays with calibration against a primary reference standard. In this study the number of bioassay replicates needed for calibration first was calculated theoretically, and if the mean value of the experimental bioassay replicates fell within the predefined bioactivity level the bioactivity of the working reference was defined as 100%. Our results showed that when the total intermediate precision of the bioassay method was at 11.66% and the predefined bioactivity level was set at 95%-105% with a confidence level of 95%, 21 bioassay replicates should be carried out for calibration. The average value of the 22 experimental bioassay replicates was 101.96%, so the bioactivity of the working reference standard was consistent with that of the primary reference standard at 100%. The results suggest that a strategy of first calculating the number of bioassay replicates needed for calibration and then determining whether the resulting experimental mean value is within the predefined bioactivity level will be of value to the biopharmaceutical industry.