{"title":"ACE2 Expression in the Kidneys of Pregnant and Postpartum Rats: Physiological and Pathological Significance During Pregnancy.","authors":"Yu Kikuta, Itsuro Kazama","doi":"10.33594/000000769","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33594/000000769","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>Pregnancy is associated with changes in renal hemodynamics, such as increases in renal blood flow and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a transmembrane glycoprotein involved in vasodilation, also acts as a receptor for the entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Using rats on pregnancy day 16 and postpartum day 5, we examined the histopathological changes in rat kidneys during and after pregnancy. The expressional changes in renal angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and angiotensin (1-7) (Ang (1-7)) were examined, together with those of transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>examined, together with those of transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Results: In pregnant rats, the renal arterioles and venules as well as the glomerular capillaries were markedly dilated, indicating renal vasodilation. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased ACE2 and Ang (1-7) expression within the proximal renal tubules during pregnancy, which then returned to the virgin levels in the postpartum period. Additionally, the proximal tubular expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 was similarly enhanced during pregnancy.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>As ACE2 and Ang (1-7) exert vasodilatory properties, they were considered responsible for renal vasodilation and the subsequent increase in GFR. Further, the similar distribution and enhanced expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the proximal renal tubules during pregnancy suggested their roles in the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) following COVID-19 in pregnancy. This study highlights the physiological and pathological significance of ACE2 during pregnancy.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 2","pages":"164-173"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-04-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143984897","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Xinliang Huang, Yunyun Wu, Fangliu Yu, Bohan Dong, Zhu Yang
{"title":"Enhancing Cellular Immunity Through Epitope Peptides of SARS-Cov-2 in Individuals with Specific HLA Allele.","authors":"Xinliang Huang, Yunyun Wu, Fangliu Yu, Bohan Dong, Zhu Yang","doi":"10.33594/000000768","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33594/000000768","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>This research explores the effectiveness of a new cytotoxic T-cell epitope peptide specific for HLA-A2402 in enhancing cellular immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infections. HLA molecules play a key role in presenting antigenic epitopes to T cells, with genetic polymorphisms resulting in varying immune responses among individuals. The study aimed to investigate whether loading this epitope peptide into dendritic cells (DCs) from HLA-A2402(+) individuals could improve immune responses.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>DCs were sensitized with varying doses of the peptide (2-12 µg/mL), with optimal results observed at 8 µg/mL. T-cell responses, proliferation, differentiation, Th cytokine secretion, CTL function, and apoptotic response were compared among the HLA-A2402(+), HLA-A2402(-), PBS control, DC only, and epitope-only groups.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A significant enhancement in DC maturation, antigen presentation, T-cell activation, and proliferation was observed in the HLA-A2402(+) group compared to the HLA-A2402(-) control.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These findings suggest that HLA-A2402-restricted epitope peptides can enhance cellular immunity, offering potential for improving allele-specific SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and other molecular therapies, advancing precision medicine for infectious diseases.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 2","pages":"148-163"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-04-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143978760","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Microbial Desalination Cells: Sustainable Water Desalination Application and Wastewater Management.","authors":"Israa Mudher, Safaa A Ali","doi":"10.33594/000000767","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000767","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>Microbial desalination cells (MDCs) are bioelectrochemical systems using electroactive bacteria to generate energy simultaneously cleaning wastewater and desalinating water. This sustainable technology addresses pollution issues and water shortage using an environmentally friendly solution that aids in desalination as well as wastewater treatment. This research focuses on the effectiveness of microbial desalination cells (MDCs) in concurrently treating wastewater and removing salt from water. The study seeks to determine whether MDCs offer a viable, environmentally friendly method for purifying water while generating energy.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The MDC setup incorporated three distinct chambers: anode, desalination, and cathode. Wastewater samples were placed in the anode and cathode compartments, while the desalination chamber contained saline water. A digital multimeter was employed to regularly monitor and log the generated voltages. The microbial community was examined through 16S rRNA gene sequencing techniques. Organic matter elimination was quantified by measuring total organic carbon (TOC) levels. The MDC operated for 30 days continuously.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The microbial desalination cell (MDC) produced bioelectricity, effectively desalinated water, and broke down organic molecules during its 30-day running. This suggests that since the voltage generation peaked at 638 mV and then stabilized at 460 mV, the electrochemical activity has been constant. From 46.2 mS/cm to 10.1 mS/cm, the desalination chamber's electrical conductivity (EC) fell drastically, clearly removing the ions. A decline in sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration-from 29 mg/L to 7 mg/L-also proved a sign of effective desalination. Better organic degradation was shown by the cathode chamber reaching 99.9% while the anode chamber attained a total organic carbon (TOC) removal rate of 97.2%. Desalination mostly depends on selective ion exchange across cation and anion membranes; microbial biofilm adaptation helped in the slow development of voltage. These findings suggest that since they efficiently mix the processes of wastewater treatment, desalination, and power generation, MDCs are a reasonably sustainable technology. The Microbial Desalination Cell (MDC) effectively desalinated water and treated wastewater having a peak voltage of 638 mV and a drop in NaCl concentration from 29 mg/L to 7 mg/L. With TOC removal in the anode at 97.2% and the cathode at 99.9%, the system proved excellent in both desalination and organic matter degradation. Furthermore, found to be unique from NCBI-recognized species was the microbiome found in Iraqi municipal effluent.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Microbial Desalination Cells (MDCs) have many advantages over conventional desalination techniques like reverse osmosis, including being able to cleanse wastewater and simultaneously generate renewable electricity with far reduced ","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 2","pages":"131-147"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-03-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143728834","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Bartłomiej Kacprzak, Karolina Rosińska, Mikołaj Stańczak
{"title":"Effective Treatment of Cartilage Abnormalities in Middle-Aged Individuals (Aged 45-60): Bounding Molecular Biology with Microfracture and Hyalofast Membrane Approach Show Positive Outcomes.","authors":"Bartłomiej Kacprzak, Karolina Rosińska, Mikołaj Stańczak","doi":"10.33594/000000760","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000760","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>In recent years, significant progress has been made in treating cartilage lesions, leading to various techniques aimed at articular surface regeneration. However, the impact of patient age on treatment outcomes remains understudied, despite its recognized influence on effectiveness. Many studies impose upper age limits, resulting in limited data on middle-aged patients, a group frequently undergoing cartilage repair. Age-related physiological changes, including a decline in regenerative capacity and alterations in proteoglycan composition, are believed to affect treatment success. This study investigates the clinical outcomes of cartilage repair in patients aged 45 to 60, specifically evaluating the effectiveness of microfracture combined with Hyalofast membrane implantation.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Patients aged 45-60 undergoing microfracture with Hyalofast membrane implantation were evaluated. Short- and medium-term outcomes were assessed using the KOOS and SF-36 questionnaires preoperatively and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Functional evaluations and MRI analyses were conducted by expert reviewers. Additionally, an intensive rehabilitation program was initiated immediately post-surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way repeated-measures ANOVA to compare preoperative, 6-month, and 12-month results, with Tukey's post-hoc test applied for multiple comparisons. Clinical significance was assessed using Cohen's d effect size, with standard thresholds for small, medium, and large effects.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The combined microfracture and Hyalofast membrane approach, along with early rehabilitation, yielded promising results. Key benefits included reduced inflammation, improved membrane integration, and decreased subchondral edema.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These findings support the feasibility of this treatment strategy, highlighting its potential to enhance joint function, alleviate pain, and improve the overall quality of life in middle-aged patients.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"100-115"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143540316","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Rami ALtameemi, Abdulameer M Ghareeb, Basim Shamkhi Rahal
{"title":"Synergistic Activity of Indolicidin and Tigecycline Against Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii Clinical Isolates.","authors":"Rami ALtameemi, Abdulameer M Ghareeb, Basim Shamkhi Rahal","doi":"10.33594/000000759","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000759","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>Acinetobacter baumannii is a ubiquitous opportunistic microorganism associated with high morbidity and mortality Particularly among burn patients and immunocompromised individuals. This study aimed to assess the time-dependent antimicrobial effectiveness of indolicidin in combination with tigecycline against multidrug-resistant (MDR) A. baumannii isolates from patients with wound infections.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The antimicrobial synergy between indolicidin and tigecycline was evaluated using the checkerboard broth microdilution method And anti-biofilm activity was assessed using the crystal violet assay. Ten isolates resistant to multiple antibiotics were identified and confirmed using the API 20-NE system.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) values ranged from 0.97 to 250 µg/ml. The results demonstrated that the inhibitory activity of indolicidin and tigecycline was significantly enhanced when combined With FIC values between 0.046 and 0.312 µg/ml. The MIC of indolicidin for isolate A4 decreased from 62.5 to 0.97 µg/ml • While the MIC of tigecycline decreased from 500 to 15.6 µg/ml • Indicating a strong synergistic effect. Additionally The combination therapy led to a 78% reduction in biofilm formation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study suggests a novel combination therapy for treating wound infections caused by MDR A. baumannii • Demonstrating significant efficacy in both bacterial inhibition and biofilm reduction.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"92-99"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143540320","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Natalia Kurhaluk, Tomasz Hetmański, Piotr Kamiński, Halina Tkaczenko
{"title":"Can Metabolic Biomarkers of Oxygen- Dependent Processes Determine Health Status of Pigeon Columba Livia F. Urbana?","authors":"Natalia Kurhaluk, Tomasz Hetmański, Piotr Kamiński, Halina Tkaczenko","doi":"10.33594/000000757","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000757","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>Anthropogenic impact is irreversibly changing natural habitats of birds. Changes caused by the bioaccumulation of trace metals can lead to the development of oxidative stress and affect oxygen-dependent metabolic pathways in bird tissues, which can be used as effective bioindicators in these conditions. The objectives of our study were (a) to investigate the tissue-specific activity of key enzymes involved in metabolic changes and energy production, including Krebs cycle enzymes, as well as variations in metabolites associated with oxygen-dependent processes; and (b) to apply multivariate regression analysis, using beta and correlation coefficients, to elucidate the mechanisms of adaptive responses in pigeons to environmental changes in lead-contaminated areas.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study investigates the ecotoxicological effects on feral pigeons (Columba livia f. urbana) in their natural habitats. It examines the influence of key environmental factors, sex, and biochemical alterations across five tissues (liver, kidney, heart, muscle, and brain). The analysis includes the combined effects of these variables on biochemical biomarkers related to energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and antioxidant defenses, considering the levels of chemical elements present in the pigeons. The analyses involved two groups of pigeons, namely, 7 females and 10 males (n = 17) in the group sampled in Słupsk and 7 females and 7 males, (n = 14) in Szpęgawa that living in two areas in central part of Northern Poland, which differed in the level of anthropopressure.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We report significant values of lead bioaccumulation in feathers of pigeons and the impact of this metal on the activities of Krebs cycle enzymes (succinate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase), biomarkers of oxygen-dependent processes (lactate dehydrogenase activity, lactate and pyruvate levels, and their ratio), and aminotransferases in different tissues of pigeons.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Biomarkers of oxygen-dependent processes in five tissues of pigeons are depending on sex and environment. Pigeons from lead-exposed areas exhibited decreased antioxidant defence by biochemical alterations in tissues. Analytical model of oxidative stress biomarkers, Krebs cycle enzymes, and chemical elements is significant. Using multivariate regression analysis with beta- and correlative coefficients, relationships were shown for the optimal development of adaptation alterations in biochemical reactions in pigeons in response to the modification of their environments. Research on Columba livia f. urbana provides valuable insights into understanding the effects of anthropogenic pollution on bird physiology and offers practical methods for assessing environmental health.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"65-91"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143432603","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sylwia Brodzka, Piotr Kamiński, Jędrzej Baszyński, Sławomir Mroczkowski, Katarzyna Rektor, Emilia Stanek, Joanna Kwiecińska-Piróg, Renata Grochowalska, Natalia Kurhaluk, Halina Tkaczenko
{"title":"Optimized Protocol For DNA Extraction from Human Whole Blood.","authors":"Sylwia Brodzka, Piotr Kamiński, Jędrzej Baszyński, Sławomir Mroczkowski, Katarzyna Rektor, Emilia Stanek, Joanna Kwiecińska-Piróg, Renata Grochowalska, Natalia Kurhaluk, Halina Tkaczenko","doi":"10.33594/000000756","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000756","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>DNA isolation is the initial process in genetic research. The product is used in many PCR reactions (PCR-RFLP, Real-Time PCR, multiplex PCR). That is why it is important to optimize DNA isolation protocol to obtain a good quality of DNA. Our first attempts at isolation, conducted using Purification Kit, did not result in sufficient concentration (6.414 ng*μL<sup>-1</sup>) and purity (A-260/280) of 0.764 of isolated DNA.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We used twice the recommended amount of tissue and cell lysis solution to get more effective cell lysis. We extend the time of vortexing, centrifugation and incubation at critical steps. We manipulated the speed and temperatures of centrifugation. We used cold iso-propanol to get white strands of DNA faster. When rinsing with ethanol we used cold alcohol. We tested efficiency of two methods of drying of ethanol to achieve optimal DNA pureness. We leave the isolated DNA for 20 minutes to evaporate the ethanol and then resuspend nucleic acid in TE Buffer.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Our modifications resulted in the improvement of isolation efficiency. After optimization we achieved DNA concentration (in range of 50-150 ng*μL<sup>-1</sup>) and purity (A 260/280) of 1.735. Similar results for DNA parameters were achieved from the whole blood frozen for 2-3 months (concentration in the range of 125.762 ng*μL<sup>-1</sup>, pureness: 1.761) and from blood frozen for 18 months (117.94 ng*μL<sup>-1</sup> and 1.7194, respectively). We performed electrophoresis after each isolation to confirm the effectiveness of optimized procedure. The refinements we used in DNA isolation are more efficient than those recommended in DNA Purification Kits.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Our results confirm that optimized DNA protocol fulfills the conditions of good extraction technique: it is relatively fast and easy to perform yet it guarantees a high reproducibility, specificity and sensitivity. There are also no dangerous or harmful steps. Our paper demonstrates innovative and effective approach. It confirms a high effectiveness of method regardless of duration of sample freezing, as well as introduce important modifications (timing, temperature conditions, drying details, absence of K-proteinase) that make overall procedure more productive and relatively fast.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"47-64"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143623831","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Natalia Leciejewska, Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek, Paweł Kołodziejski, Dawid Szczepankiewicz, Leszek Nogowski, Maciej Sassek
{"title":"MOTS-c Impact on Muscle Cell Differentiation and Metabolism Across Fiber Types.","authors":"Natalia Leciejewska, Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek, Paweł Kołodziejski, Dawid Szczepankiewicz, Leszek Nogowski, Maciej Sassek","doi":"10.33594/000000755","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000755","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>MOTS-c belongs to a group of mitochondrial peptides involved in metabolic processes in the body. This peptide has garnered increasing attention since its discovery in 2015 because of its potential to ameliorate metabolic parameters in animals with diabetes or insulin resistance. MOTS-c is involved in muscle metabolism; however, little is known about its role in fiber differentiation.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a study to explore the effect of MOTS-c on cellular processes using the C2C12 and L6 cell lines, representing different metabolic types of muscle fibers. The research methods were real-time PCR, Western blot, and lipid accumulation measurement.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Notably, our investigations revealed that MOTS-c increased the survival of C2C12 cells at doses of 10 and 100 nM (p<0.01) and stimulated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase within 5 min of incubation (p<0.05). Remarkably, these effects were not observed in L6 cells; however, both cell lines showed a reduced rate of proliferation. Furthermore, MOTS-c promotes the differentiation of C2C12 cells by increasing the expression of muscle regulatory factors, but it does not produce such an effect in L6 cells. Additionally, cells were treated with physiological concentrations of free fatty acids and MOTS-c, unveiling an augmentation in lipid accumulation observed in L6 cells and a decrease in lipid accumulation in C2C12 cells.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In conclusion, our findings have suggested a diverse response to MOTS-c depending on the type of muscle fibers, particularly in the domains of survival, cell differentiation, and lipid accumulation.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"34-46"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143058245","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Unraveling the Connection Between Ion Channels and Pancreatic Stellate Cell Activation.","authors":"Julie Auwercx, Mathilde Fourgeaud, Alexis Lalot, Mathieu Gautier","doi":"10.33594/000000754","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000754","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Quiescent pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) represent only a very low proportion of the pancreatic tissue, but their activation leads to stroma remodeling and fibrosis associated with pathologies such as chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PSC activation can be induced by various stresses, including acidosis, growth factors (PDGF, TGFβ), hypoxia, high pressure, or intercellular communication with pancreatic cancer cells. Activated PSC targeting represents a promising therapeutic strategy, but little is known regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation of PSCs. Identification of new biomarkers of PSC activation associated with desmoplasia in chronic pancreatitis and PDAC could lead to new therapeutic targets for exocrine pancreatic disease treatments. Ion channels and transporters are transmembrane proteins involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including PDAC. They are well known to act as biosensors of the tissue microenvironment, and they can be easily accessible for drugs. However, their role in PSC activation is not fully understood. In this review, we briefly discuss the role of activated PSCs in pancreas inflammation and pathological fibrosis (associated with chronic pancreatitis and PDAC), and we describe the role of specific ion channels and transporters (Ca<sup>2+</sup>, K<sup>+</sup>, Na<sup>+</sup> and Cl<sup>-</sup>) in these processes in the light of recent literature.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 S1","pages":"25-40"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143000809","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lisbeth Anchundia, Felipe Jadán Piedra, José Alejandro Macías Alcívar, Virginia Sánchez Mendoza, Danny Isaías Vera Guerrero, Sonia Nathaly Giler Intriago, Wagner Antonio Gorozabel Muñoz, Grether Lucía Real Pérez, Ricardo Loor Alava, Odalis Barzallo Delgado, Carlos Jadán Piedra
{"title":"Effect of Ph on the Physicochemical Properties of a Cassava Peel Starch Biopolymer.","authors":"Lisbeth Anchundia, Felipe Jadán Piedra, José Alejandro Macías Alcívar, Virginia Sánchez Mendoza, Danny Isaías Vera Guerrero, Sonia Nathaly Giler Intriago, Wagner Antonio Gorozabel Muñoz, Grether Lucía Real Pérez, Ricardo Loor Alava, Odalis Barzallo Delgado, Carlos Jadán Piedra","doi":"10.33594/000000753","DOIUrl":"10.33594/000000753","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/aims: </strong>This study investigates how pH levels affect the characteristics of biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. Cassava peel starch's abundance and biodegradability make it a promising candidate for sustainable packaging. The study seeks to improve film qualities such as thickness, density, moisture content, solubility, and optical properties by altering pH levels. Understanding these effects is critical for increasing the acceptability of cassava peel starch biopolymers in a variety of industrial applications, notably environmentally friendly packaging solutions.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Starch extracted from cassava peel was used to produce films using the casting method at specified pH levels. The films were evaluated for thickness and density using classical methods. Moisture content was determined following the AOAC 930.15 (2000) protocol. Color analysis was conducted using the CIELab color space technique. Water solubility and solubility in acidic (HCl) and alkaline (NaOH) solutions were assessed through chemical solubility tests performed by gravimetry.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The study investigated how pH impacts biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. The film thickness varied greatly across pH levels, with pH 10.5 creating the thickest films (0.158 ± 0.012 mm) and pH 6.5 providing the thinnest (0.118 ± 0.015 mm). Density varied slightly, from 1.393 ± 0.122 g/cc to 1.551 ± 0.153 g/cc. Moisture content fluctuated significantly, affecting biodegradability. Color study indicated pH-dependent variations in transparency and opacity, with higher pH values resulting in larger color deviations (∆E). Water solubility remained constant, but NaOH solubility dropped with increasing pH, peaking at pH 7.5 (23.44 ± 2.82%).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This work investigates the use of cassava peel starch for biopolymer synthesis at controlled pH levels. The findings demonstrate the material's practicality and provide critical insights for enhancing film qualities, particularly in a variety of industrial applications and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.</p>","PeriodicalId":9845,"journal":{"name":"Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry","volume":"59 1","pages":"21-33"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143000825","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}