Search

A recent study conducted by Yale University explores the use of wearable technology and artificial intelligence to characterize psychiatric disorders and identify genetic associations. The research highlights the potential of wearable sensors in providing quantitative and unbiased data on human behavior, leading to more accurate classification of adolescents with psychiatric disorders. By analyzing wearable and genetic data, the study identifies significant genetic loci and psychiatric-associated genes, such as ELFN1 and ADORA3, showcasing the power of continuous, wearable-derived features in genome-wide association studies. This research underscores the role of wearable technology in uncovering new connections between behavior and genetics in the field of mental health. [Extracted from the article]

Recent research from the Regional Center for Biotechnology in Faridabad, India, highlights the potential role of Aldo-keto Reductase 1-b1 (AKR1B1) in spontaneous preterm birth. The study conducted a nested case-control analysis of placental tissue samples, revealing 23 differentially expressed proteins, with AKR1B1 showing elevated levels in extreme preterm samples. The findings suggest that elevated AKR1B1 levels may play a significant role in preterm birth pathology by amplifying Prostaglandin-F2 alpha synthesis in the placenta. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into potential predictors of preterm birth. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Messina in Italy have conducted studies on Aldo-keto reductase 1B10 (AKR1B10), an enzyme that plays a role in cancer development and chemoresistance. The enzyme is highly expressed in various cancers and precancerous conditions, as well as in noncancerous diseases like skin pathologies and COVID-19 complications. The research explores AKR1B10 as a potential target for novel agents to combat cancer and chemoresistance from a medicinal chemistry perspective. The study has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of targeting AKR1B10. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China, explored the use of mRNA of 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24) delivered through lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to treat heart failure in rats induced by doxorubicin. The research found that administering DHCR24-mRNA significantly reduced mortality, improved rat motility, delayed pathological morphological alterations of myocardial cells, and exhibited some curative effects. The study concluded that DHCR24-mRNA encapsulated in LNPs could effectively treat heart failure in rats. For more information, readers can refer to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Institute of Biomedicine Sevilla (IBiS) have explored the potential of food-derived peptides as nutraceuticals for hypercholesterolemia. The study focuses on the inhibitory effect of protein hydrolysates and biopeptides on the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, a key player in cholesterol biosynthesis. While promising, further clinical studies are needed to confirm the therapeutic effects of these food peptides in lowering cholesterol levels. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Calcutta National Medical College in India explored the association between the DHCR7 gene and metabolic components of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women. The research did not find a statistically significant link between DHCR7 polymorphism and 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels or other metabolic parameters. However, certain genotypes in women with PCOS were associated with alterations in specific parameters, potentially impacting symptoms and the risk of Metabolic Syndrome. The study involved 128 women with PCOS and age-matched healthy controls, with observations suggesting a relationship between genetic variations and metabolic outcomes in PCOS. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses new research findings from Xizang Minzu University on high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and the potential therapeutic target of aldose reductase (AR) for this condition. The study explores the role of AR in hypoxia-induced pulmonary edema, vascular pressure, inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress using in vivo and in vitro models. The research suggests that AR may serve as a promising therapeutic target for HAPE, offering new drug targets for prevention and treatment. For more information, readers can refer to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Beni Suef University in Egypt conducted a study on Bidens pilosa extract, traditionally used for various ailments, analyzing its components and antiproliferative effects on cell lines. The study identified quercetin derivatives in the extract and found that it inhibited cell proliferation through the suppression of Rsk2 kinase and aldose reductase enzymes. While the research showed promising results, further studies are needed to assess the therapeutic efficiency and safety of the extract. The study was funded by Beni Suef University and King Saud University, and the findings were published in Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia have conducted a study on the role of Biliverdin Reductase (BVR) in reducing oxidative stress in rat arterial rings. The study found that inhibiting ERK1/2, a signaling pathway, enhanced the antioxidant effects of BVR, reducing oxidative damage in the arteries. This research suggests that targeting the interaction between BVR and ERK1/2 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for conditions characterized by high levels of reactive oxygen species, such as cardiovascular diseases. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Panjab University in Chandigarh, India, have focused on developing novel inhibitors of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme to manage benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By utilizing molecular modeling techniques, they have identified potential inhibitors that show enhanced binding affinity compared to existing medications. The study highlights the importance of combining ligand-based and structure-based models to develop new therapeutic options for BPH. This research has been peer-reviewed and offers valuable insights into drug development for this prevalent condition among elderly males. [Extracted from the article]

Genomatica Inc. has been issued a patent for omega-hydroxylase-related fusion polypeptide variants with improved properties. These polypeptides can produce omega-hydroxylated- and bi-functional fatty acid derivatives in host cells. The patent provides detailed information on the sequences, mutations, and methods involved in producing these fatty acid derivatives. This patent highlights advancements in enzyme technology and genetic engineering for industrial applications. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shandong University of Technology in the People's Republic of China have developed an efficient pathway for biosynthesizing Bilirubin IX alpha (BR) in Escherichia coli, a Gram-Negative Bacteria. By overexpressing heme oxygenase (HO1) and biliverdin reductase (BvdR) and optimizing culture conditions, they achieved a BR titer of 62.1 mg/L in a 20 L bioreactor. This study paves the way for scalable production of BR in recombinant E. coli, offering potential health benefits in various conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Cihan University conducted a study on the relationship between genetic variations in the HMG-CoA reductase gene and the response to cholesterol-lowering drugs in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. The study involved 90 participants, including individuals with diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, as well as healthy individuals. Genetic analysis revealed a specific mutation in the HMGCR gene that led to unresponsiveness to atorvastatin therapy in two patients. This mutation resulted in the production of truncated proteins, affecting the efficacy of the cholesterol-lowering drug. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine explores the inhibition of thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) as a potential therapeutic strategy for glioblastoma (GBM) cells. The research suggests that targeting TrxR1 induces disulfidptosis in GBM cells, leading to cell death. Inhibiting TrxR1 in glucose-starved GBM cells showed promising results in inhibiting tumor growth and improving survival rates in an orthotopic xenograft GBM mouse model. This study highlights the potential of TrxR1 inhibition as a therapeutic approach for GBM treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Taibah University in Saudi Arabia have developed novel quinoline- and naphthalene-incorporated hydrazineylidene-propenamide analogues as potential antidiabetic agents. The compounds showed significant inhibitory effects on key enzymes involved in diabetes, outperforming existing medications like acarbose and quercetin in in vitro studies. The study highlights the potential of these compounds as innovative treatments for type 2 diabetes, offering improved efficacy and fewer side effects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Marmara University sheds light on sepiapterin reductase deficiency (SRD), a rare dopa-sensitive neurotransmitter disorder often misdiagnosed as cerebral palsy. The case study of a nine-month-old boy initially diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency highlights the importance of early intervention and accurate diagnosis for optimal outcomes. Treatment with L-dopa, 5-hydroxytryptophan, and BH4 led to significant improvement in the boy's condition, emphasizing the need for awareness of SRD's nonspecific symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

Rowan University has been granted a patent for methods to detect Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnostic autoantibodies. The patent aims to provide a method for detecting, subtyping, and assessing the progression of MS in individuals, allowing for rapid evaluation of those with or without detectable physical symptoms of the disease. The invention involves contacting an immunoglobulin-containing biological sample with specific antigens to form immunocomplexes, which can indicate the presence of MS diagnostic autoantibodies in the sample. This development could potentially lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of MS, benefiting individuals at risk of suffering from the disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia explored the role of biliverdin reductase (BVR) in protecting endothelial cells against oxidative stress-induced injury. The research found that inhibition of BVR diminished the protective effects of biliverdin (BV) and bilirubin (BR), leading to decreased cell viability and antioxidant activity. The study suggests that targeting the BVR-ERK interaction sites could be a potential therapeutic strategy for addressing oxidative stress-induced endothelial dysfunction. For more information, the study can be found in Acta Chimica Slovenica, with contact information available for the researchers involved. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Lincoln University in New Zealand conducted a study on the proximate composition, peptide characterization, and bioactive properties of faba bean blanching water. The study found that the blanching water contained high levels of protein, water-soluble carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and minerals like potassium and zinc. Peptides derived from faba bean proteins showed potential bioactivities such as HMG-CoA reductase inhibition, suggesting possible hypocholesterolemic effects. The research concluded that faba bean blanching water could be a sustainable and functional ingredient with cholesterol-lowering properties in food production. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Academy of National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration in Beijing, China, have identified a novel enzyme, Mg aldo-keto reductase (AKR), from Meyerozyma guilliermondii AF01, which effectively degrades aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). The study highlights the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms of mycotoxin degradation for biocontrol applications in food safety. This research lays the groundwork for enhancing AFB1 removal using the AF01 strain, offering potential solutions for managing mycotoxin contamination in food. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Southwest University in Chongqing, China, focused on cloning and characterizing the Thioredoxin Reductase 1 gene in Hyriopsis cumingii and its regulatory mechanism by Nrf2. The research aimed to understand the thioredoxin system's role in defending against oxidative stress in bivalves, shedding light on antioxidant mechanisms in H. cumingii. The study's findings highlight the regulatory role of Nrf2 in the thioredoxin system and offer insights that may inform environmental monitoring and conservation efforts in aquatic ecosystems. [Extracted from the article]

Research from Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University explores the role of Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 in preventing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) from reactive carbonyl species-induced cell death and promoting its progression. The study suggests that AKR1B10 is an adverse prognosticator for ESCC patients and could be a potential therapeutic target for ESCC treatment. The findings highlight the importance of understanding how ESCC cells evade apoptosis induced by reactive carbonyl species, shedding light on potential mechanisms for ESCC progression. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece have discovered novel N-benzylindole-based epalrestat analogs that act as selective aldose reductase inhibitors to combat hyperglycemia in diabetic patients. The study focused on the rational design and synthesis of these analogs, particularly AK-4, which showed promising results in targeting mitochondria and stimulating glucose uptake without adverse effects. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity studies suggest that AK-4 could be a viable oral treatment option for diabetes. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a method to biosynthesize diosmin and hesperidin in a microorganism, aiming to provide an alternative to the current extraction process from orange peel. The method involves using specific enzymes and genetic sequences to produce these compounds in a recombinant microorganism. This innovation addresses the need for a more stable and reliable source of these flavonoids, which are key components of the pharmaceutical product Daflon. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from New York University School of Medicine have published a study on geriatrics and gerontology, focusing on the role of aldose reductase inhibitors in attenuating human keratinocyte senescence. The study found that these inhibitors significantly reduced markers of cell senescence in primary normal human keratinocytes. The research suggests that aldose reductase inhibitors may have potential in reducing cell aging and aging-associated diseases, paving the way for further preclinical and clinical testing. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in Iran conducted a study on Sepiapterin reductase deficiency (SRD), a rare psychomotor disorder. They used whole-exome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to identify a homozygous nonsynonymous variant in the SPR gene, leading to the destruction of the ligand-binding site. The research concluded that this approach could improve the diagnosis and management of challenging neurodevelopmental cases. The study was published in Molecular Syndromology and can be accessed online. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) have found that bilirubin reductase, an enzyme that metabolizes bilirubin, is significantly enriched in the large intestines of animals. The enzyme's evolution is complex and shows specific associations with different animal species and their physiological traits. This research sheds light on the importance of the microbiome in animal physiology and evolution. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at King Abdulaziz University in Rabigh, Saudi Arabia, examined the correlation between the Methionine Synthase Reductase A66G variant and pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). The research found that the A66G polymorphism was not associated with an increased risk of ALL in pediatric patients. The study included 86 individuals with ALL and 150 healthy controls, with results indicating a higher prevalence of B-cell ALL compared to T-cell ALL. The findings were published in the Journal of Hematology and have been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Dong-Eui University in South Korea conducted a study on the effects of an ethanol extract of Euodia rutaecarpa fruit on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in rats induced by testosterone propionate (TP). The study found that the extract significantly suppressed TP-induced BPH by reducing prostate weight, lumen size, and epithelial thickness, as well as decreasing the expression of key biomarkers involved in BPH development. The researchers concluded that Euodia rutaecarpa fruit extract may protect against BPH by inhibiting the androgen receptor signaling pathway and 5a-reductase activity, suggesting potential in blocking BPH pathogenesis. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Central Florida College of Medicine discuss the historical and scientific evolution of testosterone and 5 Alpha Reductase Inhibitor (5ARI) research in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The review covers the role of testosterone in male development, the introduction of 5ARIs like finasteride in managing BPH, and the controversy surrounding their therapeutic use. Emerging evidence challenges the traditional view that testosterone exacerbates prostate conditions, suggesting that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may improve symptoms of low testosterone without increasing BPH symptoms, prostate cancer (PCa), or cardiovascular risk. The research emphasizes the need for continued study on Testosterone and 5ARI to further define their role in men's health. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Enzymatic Electrode System And Its Applications" was published online by inventors from Beijing, China, on December 12, 2024. The application focuses on developing an enzymatic electrode system for blood glucose monitoring, aiming to enhance traditional monitoring systems by utilizing direct electron transfer without the need for toxic electron mediators. The system is designed to be non-toxic, stable, and exhibit specific substrate selectivity, showcasing potential for commercial applications in the medical field. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Mississippi Medical Center explored the role of renal medullary bilirubin and biliverdin reductase in Angiotensin II-dependent hypertension. The research found that increased circulating bilirubin can attenuate Angiotensin II-induced hypertension and improve renal hemodynamics. The study suggests that mechanisms enhancing bilirubin and biliverdin reductase in the renal medulla could be a promising approach to treating hypertension. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Tripura University have conducted a study focusing on hyperlipidemias, a condition linked to cardiovascular disease. The study aimed to identify potential inhibitors of the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase derived from mushrooms. Through molecular docking and simulation studies, a compound named M_02(c) showed promising results as a potential HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. This research suggests that M_02(c) could be a valuable molecule in preventing and treating hyperlipidemia. [Extracted from the article]

A research report from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Shanghai discusses the functional characterization of two reductase enzymes, KshB1 and KshB2, in Mycobacterium fortuitum. The study explores the role of these enzymes in the production of C9 non-hydroxylated steroid intermediates. Findings suggest that inactivation of the reductase KshB could enhance the production of these steroidal compounds, offering new insights into metabolic engineering strategies for Mycobacterium fortuitum. The research was funded by the National Key R&D Program of China and the Science and Technology Innovation Team Project of Hubei province. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine have published a study on the role of cholesterol in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in mice. The study found that cholesterol overload in macrophages can drive liver inflammation and identified 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7) as a key enzyme involved in this process. The research suggests that targeting DHCR7 activation in macrophages could be a potential therapeutic strategy for MASH. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry in Punjab, India, have conducted a study on the selectivity challenges faced by aldose reductase inhibitors in managing diabetic complications. The research highlights the importance of inhibiting aldose reductase (ALR2) in preventing diabetic complications, despite the structural similarity it shares with aldehyde reductase (ALR1). The study offers insights into developing target-specific ALR2 inhibitors to minimize off-target toxicity, providing innovative strategies for future research in this area. This peer-reviewed research sheds light on advancements made in the last decade in developing ALR2 and ALR1 inhibitors, emphasizing the need for improved selectivity in managing diabetic complications. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Majmaah University in Saudi Arabia conducted a study on the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory efficacy of natural monoterpenoids carvacrol and geraniol. The study utilized molecular informatics and in-vitro approaches to evaluate the cardioprotective role of these compounds in lowering cholesterol. Results showed that both carvacrol and geraniol effectively inhibited HMG-R activity, with geraniol demonstrating better stability in molecular simulation studies. This research provides valuable insights into potential anti-hypercholesterolemic agents derived from natural sources. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at City University of Hong Kong analyzed the impact of steroid 5 alpha-reductase 3 (SRD5A3) on the prognosis and immune microenvironment of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC). The study found that high expression of SRD5A3 was associated with poor overall survival and short progression-free survival in patients with LIHC. Additionally, SRD5A3 was found to promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of liver cancer cells and was negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration. The research suggests that SRD5A3 could be an independent risk factor for different prognoses in patients with LIHC. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Wenzhou Medical University in Zhejiang, China, explored the inhibitory effects of paraben preservatives on steroid 5 alpha-reductase 1 (SRD5A1) in human and rat cells. The results showed that various parabens, including nonylparaben, significantly inhibited human SRD5A1, leading to a decrease in dihydrotestosterone production. While rat SRD5A1 exhibited lower sensitivity to parabens, docking analysis revealed that parabens bind to the NADPH-binding site of both human and rat SRD5A1. This research sheds light on the impact of paraben preservatives on hormone production. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Charles University in the Czech Republic conducted a study on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a leading cause of chronic liver disorders characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation. The study investigated MASLD development in mice fed different diets and found significant liver steatosis and fibrosis in MASLD mice compared to control mice. Alterations in hepatic lipid metabolism, epigenetic regulation, and detoxification enzymes were observed in MASLD mice, suggesting potential diagnostic markers for the disease. The research concluded that MSG mice fed a high-fat, high-fructose, and high-cholesterol diet could serve as a suitable model for MASLD. [Extracted from the article]

Research conducted at the University of Nebraska Medical Center has identified coumarin derivatives as potent inhibitors of the AKR1C family of enzymes, which are implicated in drug resistance in various cancers. The study found that a specific compound, coumarin amide 3a, showed high potency in inhibiting AKR1C3 and AKR1C2. However, the research also revealed that the inhibitory profile required to enhance chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity in leukemia may be isoform and drug-specific. This peer-reviewed study was funded by the NIH and provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, Romania, have developed quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models to predict inhibitors of the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which plays a role in cholesterol synthesis. By employing machine learning algorithms and analyzing chemical compounds, the study identified potential new inhibitors with promising cholesterol-lowering activities. The research findings suggest that these models could aid in the discovery of novel cholesterol-lowering agents and provide insights into the mechanisms of herbal extracts' cholesterol-lowering effects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics explored the use of auranofin, an FDA-approved anti-rheumatic drug, to sensitize cancer cells to therapy by targeting Thioredoxin Reductase (TrxR). The research found that auranofin treatment decreased TrxR activity and clonogenic survival in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cell lines and sensitized them to sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor. The study suggests that auranofin could be repurposed as an adjuvant therapy with targeted agents that disrupt thiol metabolism, potentially offering new treatment options for lung neuroendocrine tumor cells and SCLC. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Jinan in Guangzhou, China, explores the development of highly selective chiral metal complexes-based inhibitors for thioredoxin reductase (TXNRD) as a potential strategy for targeted anticancer drug development. The research focuses on manipulating the conformation of weakly interacting groups to enhance non-covalent interactions within the active site of TXNRD, aiming to improve selectivity and efficacy while minimizing toxicity. The study highlights the importance of chiral isomeric drugs in inhibiting TXNRD, with the meso-configuration showing the highest number of non-covalent interactions and most effective inhibition. This work not only offers a new approach for developing proteinase inhibitors but also provides insights into potential mechanisms for future applications in cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Camerino in Italy conducted a study on the anticancer properties of Inonotus obliquus (Chaga) mushroom extract on breast cancer cell lines. The study identified four triterpenoids in Chaga extract that decreased cell viability and blocked cell cycle progression in breast cancer cells by targeting dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Additionally, the Chaga components showed a synergistic effect with conventional therapies like cisplatin and trastuzumab, making them potentially effective against aggressive breast cancer subtypes. The research highlights the potential of Chaga mushroom triterpenoids as targeted drugs for breast cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Western Michigan University focused on the chemistry of flavin oxidation in Urocanate reductase (UrdA), an enzyme found in gut bacteria that plays a role in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The research revealed the presence of a charge-transfer complex between reduced FAD and urocanate, with important implications for catalysis. Mutational analysis of urocanate-binding residues shed light on the mechanism of urocanate reduction by UrdA. For more information, readers can refer to the Journal of Biological Chemistry. [Extracted from the article]