Shatakshi Mishra

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have gained significant consideration due to their environmental persistence and possible health risks associated with exposure. This review provides a comprehensive impression of the various methods employed to remove PFAS contaminants from water sources. These methods encompass physical, chemical, and biological approaches, each offering distinct advantages and challenges. In physical methods, adsorption technologies using activated carbon, ion-exchange resins, and high-pressure membrane systems have established promising results in PFAS removal. Chemical methods, including advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) and chemical precipitation, offer efficient PFAS degradation capabilities. Biological treatment methods, such as bioremediation and phytoremediation, harness the natural abilities of microorganisms and plants to degrade or accumulate PFAS. While these approaches are environmentally friendly, their effectiveness may be influenced by the complexity of water matrices and the specific PFAS compounds present. This review highlights the benefits and restrictions of each technique, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that combines multiple techniques for effective PFAS removal. Additionally, it underscores the importance of ongoing research to address the challenges posed by PFAS contamination and develop sustainable and cost-effective solutions for safeguarding water quality and public health.

The current study investigates the anticancer activity of protein derived from yeast against breast cancer. Yeast-derived proteins illustrate potential as an anticancer agent through mechanisms, such as immune system stimulation via beta-glucans, cytotoxic effects, and modulation of gut microbiota by probiotic strains. The antioxidant activity of yeast-derived proteins can aid in anticancer activity by neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and preventing damage to cellular DNA. Employing a comprehensive methodology encompassing yeast isolation, antioxidant screening, molecular characterization, bioactive protein purification, and MTT assay, the research provides crucial insights into the anticancer attributes of the protein extracted from the yeast. The findings reveal significant antioxidant activity that reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which are implicated in cancer development. The MTT assay on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines, characterized by estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positivity and HER-2 negativity, determined an IC₅₀ value of 54.89 µg/ml, indicating a dose-dependent decrease in cytotoxic effects. These results suggest that the protein derived from Trichosporon asahii VITSTB1 exhibits promising anti-breast cancer properties. Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, assess efficacy and safety profiles, explore synergies with existing therapies, and conduct animal model studies. Advancing this line of inquiry will significantly contribute to biomedical research and industrial innovation. Graphical Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a distressing neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles within the brain. The interconnectedness between membrane transporters (SLCs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in AD pathogenesis has gained increasing attention. This review explores the localization, substrates, and functions of SLC transporters in the brain, emphasizing the roles of transporters for glutamate, glucose, nucleosides, and other essential compounds. The examination delves into the significance of SLCs in AD, their potential for drug development, and the intricate realm of miRNAs, encompassing their transcription, processing, functions, and regulation. MiRNAs have emerged as significant players in AD, including those associated with mitochondria and synapses. Furthermore, this review discusses the intriguing nexus of miRNAs targeting SLC transporters and their potential as therapeutic targets in AD. Finally, the review underscores the interaction between SLC transporters and miRNA regulation within the context of Alzheimer’s disease, underscoring the need for further research in this area. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying the causation of AD and provides insights into potential therapeutic approaches.

A phytochemical-loaded nanoparticle is an important therapeutic agent that aids in enhancing the bioavailability of phytochemicals of lower water solubility and delivering the phytochemicals to the site of infection in a targeted manner. This strategy has also been developed for the management of COVID-19. They can be used as antiviral medication carriers, causing the direct death of viral particles and imitating the host in order to neutralize viral processes. In the formulation of phytochemical-loaded nanoparticles against SARS-CoV-2, different categories of nanoparticles, including inorganic, lipid-based, and polymeric nanoparticles, are used. Numerous phytochemicals belonging to the classes of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides, polyphenols, and lignans, that demonstrate effective antiviral properties are utilized for the phytochemical-loaded nanoparticles. This approach results in increased solubility and stability of the phytochemicals with lower systemic toxicity, in addition to site-specific delivery. The combination therapy delivers multiple therapeutic agents at the site of infection. It can also be administered directly to the respiratory system by inhalation delivery. Therefore, this approach can potentially inhibit the application of phytochemical-loaded nanoparticles for the treatment of COVID-19, which is still in its replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and reduces the severity of the disease. The infancy and a number of obstacles must be overcome prior to their widespread use.