Mukhayya Ruzieva

Leukemia, characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells, encompasses several subtypes, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It presents a significant challenge in treatment due to its complex biology and the presence of drug resistance. Autophagy, a cellular process responsible for degrading and recycling cellular components, plays a dual role in leukemia. On one hand, autophagy helps cancer cells survive and adapt to stressors, including chemotherapy, promoting drug resistance. On the other hand, it can also function as a tumor suppressor by enhancing sensitivity to treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression, are crucial in modulating autophagy-related genes and signaling pathways in leukemia. Dysregulated miRNAs can either inhibit or enhance autophagy, influencing leukemia progression and response to therapy. Targeting the interaction between autophagy and miRNAs presents a novel therapeutic strategy to overcome drug resistance and improve leukemia treatment outcomes. By understanding the molecular mechanisms of autophagy and miRNAs, new treatment strategies could be developed that focus on restoring proper autophagic function and miRNA regulation, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and reducing side effects. This review explores the dual roles of autophagy and miRNAs in leukemia, providing a deeper insight into their interplay and their potential for improving therapeutic approaches. Graphical Abstract

The increasing demand for natural food preservatives has intensified research into indigenous microorganisms with biopreservative properties. This study investigated the antimicrobial efficacy and biopreservative potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from traditionally fermented Dacryodes edulis seeds. From 187 initial isolates, 45 LAB strains were comprehensively characterized across three agroecological zones in Kogi State, Nigeria. Molecular identification using 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed five species, with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum predominating (42.2%). Novel strain DE‐LAB‐23 demonstrated exceptional antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7 (inhibition zone: 28.4 ± 1.2 mm), Salmonella Typhimurium (26.8 ± 0.9 mm), and Listeria monocytogenes (24.6 ± 1.1 mm). Multi‐omics validation (RNA‐seq, mass spectrometry, Western blot) confirmed production of novel bacteriocins with remarkable thermal stability (85% activity at 100°C for 15 min) and broad pH tolerance (pH 3.0–9.0). Whole‐genome sequencing revealed four novel biosynthetic gene clusters encoding previously uncharacterized antimicrobial peptides. Application in a traditional African porridge model achieved 3.2‐log pathogen reduction and 72‐h shelf‐life extension at ambient temperature. These findings establish indigenous D. edulis ‐derived LAB as promising natural biopreservatives for sustainable food safety enhancement in West African traditional foods.

Background Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a promising biomarker for minimal residual disease (MRD) detection in resected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), offering potential for risk stratification and treatment optimization in the postoperative setting. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the prognostic value of postoperative ctDNA detection for recurrence-free survival and overall survival in patients with surgically resected NSCLC. Methods We systematically searched multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, identifying 1,640 initial records. After screening and eligibility assessment, 13 studies encompassing 1,309 patients were included in the quantitative synthesis. Results Immediate postoperative ctDNA detection (4 studies, n = 556) demonstrated a hazard ratio of 6.41 (95% CI: 4.18–9.83, P < 0.00001, I² = 0%) for recurrence-free survival. MRD assessment (9 studies, n = 1,107) yielded HR = 5.48 (95% CI: 3.71–8.10, P < 0.00001, I² = 38%). Longitudinal ctDNA monitoring (8 studies, n = 1,102) showed the strongest association with HR = 8.70 (95% CI: 6.03–12.54, P < 0.00001, I² = 21%). Post-adjuvant chemotherapy ctDNA positivity (3 studies, n = 460) resulted in HR = 2.85 (95% CI: 1.56–5.21, P = 0.0006, I² = 0%). Overall survival analysis (5 studies) demonstrated HR = 4.47 (95% CI: 2.66–7.52, P < 0.00001, I² = 0%). Conclusions Postoperative ctDNA detection independently predicts prognosis in resected NSCLC, consistently indicating recurrence risk and guiding adjuvant therapy decisions.

Polypropylene (PP) which comes in both low and high densities is one of the most widely used polymers (18.85%). PP is extensively used in various industries but poses environmental threats due to its resistance to recycling and slow biodegradation. To address this, innovative methods for conversion of PP waste into beneficial products and energy are necessary. "Polypropylene waste valorization" encompasses advanced techniques like microbial degradation, chemical recycling, photocatalysis, and pyrolysis, along with mechanical recycling. While only a few microbes have been identified for PP breakdown whereas pyrolysis produces valuable liquid fuel. Only a small number of microbes, including Rhodococcus sp., Phanerochaete chrysoporium, Bacillus sp., and Brevibacillus sp., have been documented to breakdown PP. PP pyrolysis leads to a liquid product known as “pyrolysis oil” that is used as an alternative fuel for various applications. The environmental impact of producing PP is reduced by reducing plastic waste through effective valorization methods. The production of secondary materials or chemicals from PP trash also helps to save resources, save energy, and lessen reliance on fossil fuels. These valorization methods reduce environmental impact, conserve resources, and potentially create jobs. However, challenges like low conversion rates and catalyst deactivation persist. This review focuses on comprehensive research into PP valorization by bacteria and fungi, including pre-treatment methods like ultraviolet radiation and varying environmental conditions.