Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is an unusual dermatosis caused by a parasite Leishman... more Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is an unusual dermatosis caused by a parasite Leishmania donovani (LD). It occurs between six months and five years of following an attack of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) / Kala Azar (KA). As a recurrence of VL, it keeps appearing on the skin of patient even after 20 years of partial treatment, inadequate treatment and in untreated cases. We here 4 cases of PKDL in Mumbai a non-endemic zone of the country. In first case, laboratory diagnosis was made by demonstration of LD bodies on histopathological examination. In second and third case, diagnosis was made by detecting anti-leishmanial antibodies. In the fourth case, diagnosis was made by both demonstrations of LD bodies as well as anti-leishmanial antibodies. The PKDL lesions are confusing with the other dermatological conditions and hence, it is necessary that clinicians and pathologists should collaborate in diagnosing them so appropriate timely therapy can be instituted.
Abstract: -
Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence p... more Abstract: - Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence properties which are usually absent in non-pathogenic E. coli. The study was undertaken to characterize the properties like hemolysin production, serotypes and multi drug resistance (MDR) in routinely administered antimicrobial drugs in the UPEC isolates. Design & Methods: Laboratory confirmed 105 UPEC isolates, obtained by semi quantitative culture method from clinically symptomatic cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with fecal isolates of E. coli from 50 healthy individuals were included as controls. All isolates subjected to serotyping and haemolysin production on sheep blood agar. Antibiorgram was done using modified Kirby-Bauer’s disc diffusion method by the standard Clinical & Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: - All 105 serotyped strains showed high prevalence to O25 followed by O120 and others. Total 25 different serotypes were observed. Hemolysin production observed in 14 (13.33%) of uroisolates and 3 (6%) of control strains. MDR was found in 47 (44.76%) isolates with preponderance to 3 classes: Ampicillin, Co-trimoxazole and Gentamycin. No correlation between serotypes, haemolysin production and MDR was found. Interpretation & Conclusion: Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles are necessary to be evaluated in India where a severe misuse of antibiotics at all levels somewhere can be seen. An urgent and stringent policies of antimicrobial use and infection control in all hospitals is a need of hour. However, hemolysin production, serotyping and MDR in the isolates are reasonably easy and screening them in clinical microbiology laboratory of our hospital is a worthwhile experience. Key Words: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Serotype, Haemolysin production, Drug resistance.
The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of... more The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of genes
collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced
Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their
anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of
two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both
IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy
ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44%
and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology
modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using
RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot analysis of IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins showed that
conformations for 85.4 % and 84.7% of amino acid residues respectively are within the most favored regions
and the C-score, expected TM score and RMSD results validated the final refined models as reliable. Energy
minimization for IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins was done by using ArgusLab and the results suggested the final
model to be steadfast. The structures thus modeled may enable conceptualizing prophylactic & therapeutic
strategies against many viral diseases.
Introduction: Herbal medicines still remain the mainstay of about 70–75% of the world population,... more Introduction: Herbal medicines still remain the mainstay of about 70–75% of the world population, mainly in developing countries for primary health care because of better compatibility, cultural acceptability and lesser side effects. In the present study we assessed the antioxidant and larvicidal activity of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea. Objectives: To assess the antioxidant and larvicidal activity of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea. Materials and Methods: Antioxidant activity of aqueous and methanol extract of leaves of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea was determined by finding the total reducing capacity of ferricyanide complex, spectrophotometrically and DPPH method. Larvicidal bioassay was carried out as per World Health Organization standard protocols. Prior to that, the purity and phenolic content of the plant extracts were determined by total ash content and folin-ciocalteau method respectively. Results: Aqueous and methanol extracts from le...
INTRODUCTION: The 2009 Influenza Pandemic (‘Swine Flu’) caused by a novel H1N1 Influenza Virus (S... more INTRODUCTION: The 2009 Influenza Pandemic (‘Swine Flu’) caused by a novel H1N1 Influenza Virus (Swine Origin Influenza A; SOIA) has waved panic world-over since April 2009. Haffkine Institute is the regional centre for molecular diagnosis of Influenza Virus in and around Mumbai. We present here some important findings from our testing. MATERIALS: 3750 throat/nasal swab samples from patients suspected of Influenza were obtained during August–September 2009. Since viral safety has not been completely established, P2 level biosafety cabinets with P3 level safety practices were followed. METHODS: Molecular diagnosis was performed according to WHO/CDC recommended protocols. RNA extraction using spin-column-based kits and One-Step Real-Time Reverse-Transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) were used to diagnose SOIA along with Seasonal Influenza A. RESULTS: The percent positivity of SOIA is approximately 20%, while that of Seasonal Influenza A is approximately 16%. Analysis of partial epidemiological d...
Anti-retroviral therapy continues to be the mainstay for HIV treatment for the past three decades... more Anti-retroviral therapy continues to be the mainstay for HIV treatment for the past three decades. Considering the disease burden of HIV world wide it becomes imperative to find novel and effective antivirals to combat the spread of virus. This study was an attempt to explore the various nanoparticles like gold and silver nanoparticles and carbon nanobeads as potential antiviral agents against HIV. Anti-viral activity was assessed by standard drug susceptibility assay protocol. Among the candidates gold nanoparticles were found to show highest anti-viral activity.
INTRODUCTION: The first confirmed case of ‘Swine Flu’ Novel H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Origin Influe... more INTRODUCTION: The first confirmed case of ‘Swine Flu’ Novel H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Origin Influenza A; SOIA) reported in India on 16 May 2009 heralded an alarming increase in positive cases. Haffkine Institute is a regional center for the molecular diagnosis of Influenza in the Mumbai region. Here we present an analysis of the co-existence of the SOIA virus vis-à-vis the Seasonal Influenza A Virus in the community during August–September 2009. MATERIALS: 3750 throat/nasal swab samples from patients suspected of Influenza were obtained during August–September 2009. Since viral safety has not been completely established, P2 level biosafety cabinets with P3 level safety practices were followed. METHODS: Molecular diagnosis was carried out according to WHO/CDC recommended protocols. RNA extraction using spin-column-based kits and One-Step Real-Time Reverse-Transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) were used to diagnose SOIA along with Seasonal Influenza A. RESULTS: The overall percent positivity of ...
Research Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences
The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of ... more The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of genes collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44% and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot anal...
Emerging trends of exploiting plant cell culture for the production of high value phyto-pharmaceu... more Emerging trends of exploiting plant cell culture for the production of high value phyto-pharmaceuticals, immobilization of plant cell has a very important role.In the described study, the immobilized culture Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) was used to enhance the production of their active compoundCurcumin. The maximum content of Curcumin was obtained in cultures fed with 5mg/100ml of Cinnamic acid (3.36%per 300beads) at the age of two weeks in Zenk medium.To examine the involvement of protein in curcumin biosynthesis, we have also examined curcumin content as well as the protein profile of treated samples of curcuma longa in in vitrostatic culture.Significantly, the seven fold enhancement in curcumin content was obtained in two weeks old rhizome culture,, which was maintained on Zenk production media incorporated with 5 mg/l of cinnamic acid (Control 1.57%and induced 8.717%).Quantitative estimation was done by using HPTLC with standard curcumin. In Protein profile studies,all the tre...
Testing and Research, Parel Mumbai 400012. ABSTRACT Plant cell culture system has served as an al... more Testing and Research, Parel Mumbai 400012. ABSTRACT Plant cell culture system has served as an alternative to enhance the production of high value phyto-pharmaceuticals. In the described study, the immobilized culture and static culture of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) were used to maximize the production of the bioactive compound Curcumin. It was observed that Curcumin content in vitro studies (static as well as immobilize cultures) were enhanced in one week old cultures fed with 5mg/100ml of media (Static 8.71%; immobilize 2.03%). Statistically significant (seven fold) enhancement in Curcumin content was obtained in one week old static culture, which was maintained on Zenk production media incorporated with cinnamic acid (Control 1.57% and induced 8.717%). Quantitative estimation was done using HPTLC analysis with standard Curcumin. To evaluate the effect of treatment on total protein in Curcumin biosynthesis, we have examined Curcumin content as well as the protein profile of tre...
Tylophora indica a branching climber indigenous to India is a major medicinal plant having variou... more Tylophora indica a branching climber indigenous to India is a major medicinal plant having various activities like anti asthmatic, hepato protective, anti tumor ,anti inflammatory and more .. The main objective was to evaluate the homogeneity of the regenerated microshoots of Tylophora indica to its mother plant. Regenerated micro shoots were developed from leaf explants via indirect organogenesis using specific culturing conditions .Work was carried out to develop microshoots of Tylophora indica and then the regenerated micro shoots were subjected for the RAPD and ISSR analysis to scrutinize for their polymorphism with the mother plant. Due to overexploitation, plant tissue culture techniques has been used to conserve this extinct sps.DNA was extracted from regenerant and subjected to RAPD and ISSR analysis separately for molecular characterization. . In the case of RAPD, the bands obtained were all mono morphic and hence it was proved that the regenerants are true-to-type within t...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Urinary bladder is a hollow, collapsible, smooth muscular organ shaped like a balloon, which is a... more Urinary bladder is a hollow, collapsible, smooth muscular organ shaped like a balloon, which is a part of the urinary system. The walls of urinary bladder consists of four layers namely mucosa, submucosa, muscularis and the serosa. The function of urinary bladder is to relax and store urine during filling and to contract forcefully in order to empty the bladder during micturition. The nervous system monitors and controls almost every movement of urinary bladder through a series of positive and negative feedback loops. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a rampant epidemic worldwide. DM affects more than 285 million people worldwide in 2010 and it estimated that it would affect 439 million by the year 2030. This review focuses on pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for urologic complications of diabetes and emphasizing on recent developments in our understanding of this condition. We also tried to shed some light on molecular biology which takes place during diabetes mellitus urinary bla...
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more dynamic than any other diseases in both developin... more Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more dynamic than any other diseases in both developing and developed countries. Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs) are icosahedral, small, non-enveloped particle measuring ~55 nm in diameter. They are ~8000 base-pair (bp), double stranded circular DNA molecule which wrapped into a protein shell by two molecules namely, L1 and L2. The HPV genome has the coding capacity for two late proteins (L1 and L2) and for six early proteins (E1, E2, E4–E7) which are necessary for the replication of the viral DNA and for the assembly of newly produced virus particles within the infected cells. More than 100 HPV types have been characterized molecularly and about 40 types are able to infect the epithelial lining of the anogenital tract and other mucosal areas of the human body. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a necessary cause of cervical, anogenital, upper aerodigestive tract and skin cancers. Other cofactors are necessary for progression from cervical HPV inf...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease which can infect diffe... more Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease which can infect different parts of the body including uterus. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women worldwide. The HPV-related disease appears to be increasing but treatment is limited, difficult and insufficient with high relapse rate. This growth in disease burden had made the development of two an effective prophylactic Human Papillomavirus vaccines namely Gardasil® - quadrivalent (Merck) and Cervarix™ - bivalent (GlaxoSmithKline). These vaccines are widely marketed internationally. However, pre-existing HPV infection is a highly prevalent in public health of developed and developing countries. According to published literature, antigen-specific T cell- mediated immunity is required for treatment of established HPV infection. Therefore, it is an important to develop vaccines that induce cell-mediated immune responses which are specific for early viral proteins in order to effect reg...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research
In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged into chromatin structures, whose basic unit is the nucleosome. A p... more In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged into chromatin structures, whose basic unit is the nucleosome. A principle component of chromatin that plays an important role in the regulation of DNA is the modification of histones. Since histones are post-translationally modified, there includes a large number of different histone post-translational modifications. These histone modifications create a repressive environment for gene expression, which in case of histone acetylation, are controlled by competing activities of two families of enzymes, histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDAC11 is a class IV protein of the HDAC family. The present aim of this study is to develop 3D model of HDAC11 by using bioinformatics tools. The design of the model is based on thorough evaluation of the HDAC-11 query sequence, Q96DB2, which was retrieved from UniProtKB. The physiochemical and primary analysis were computed using ExPASy Protparam tool. Functional characterization was com...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects around 350 million of the global population. The current antivira... more Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects around 350 million of the global population. The current antivirals are laden with side effects as well as expense burden. An alternative medication based on Ayurveda is being proposed to counter this scenario. Hep-1 to Hep-6 are herbal formulations used for the treatment of hepatitis B virus. They are also indicated for alleviation of hepatotoxicity. The molecular mechanism involved in the anti-HBV activity of these formulations is being studied using in-vitro models for the first time. Inhibition of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) secretion from the transfected human hepatocarcinoma PLC/PRF/5 cells, as well as inhibition of the surface antigen binding was taken up in the present study. These anti-HBV activities were detected by HBsAg specific antibody-mediated enzyme assay (ELISA) at concentrations ranging from 50 to 250μg/mL. The results indicate that the suppression of HBsAg production and inhibition were best observed at 150μg/mL across the e...
International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Histones are the most abundant proteins associated with the eukaryotic DNA. The N-terminal tails ... more Histones are the most abundant proteins associated with the eukaryotic DNA. The N-terminal tails of these histones are subjected to modifications primarily by two enzymes namely, Histone acetyl transferases (HATs) and Histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDACs help in the regulation of the acetylation of histones and the condensation of the chromatin in its stable form. HDACs are considered as one of the promising targets in cancer biology studies. HDAC9 is a class II member of HDAC family and they are associated with many neurological disorders and a variety of cancers. The 3D structure of this HDAC9 (Q9UKV0) was not published. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop and validate the model structure of HDAC9 (Q9UKV0) using bioinformatics tools. The Physiochemical Characterization was carried out using ExPASy ProtParam tool, the Functional Characterization using Cysteine Recognition Server and HMMTOP Server and Molecular Modeling using I-TASSER. Model Refinement, Validation and Verifica...
Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is an unusual dermatosis caused by a parasite Leishman... more Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is an unusual dermatosis caused by a parasite Leishmania donovani (LD). It occurs between six months and five years of following an attack of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) / Kala Azar (KA). As a recurrence of VL, it keeps appearing on the skin of patient even after 20 years of partial treatment, inadequate treatment and in untreated cases. We here 4 cases of PKDL in Mumbai a non-endemic zone of the country. In first case, laboratory diagnosis was made by demonstration of LD bodies on histopathological examination. In second and third case, diagnosis was made by detecting anti-leishmanial antibodies. In the fourth case, diagnosis was made by both demonstrations of LD bodies as well as anti-leishmanial antibodies. The PKDL lesions are confusing with the other dermatological conditions and hence, it is necessary that clinicians and pathologists should collaborate in diagnosing them so appropriate timely therapy can be instituted.
Abstract: -
Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence p... more Abstract: - Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence properties which are usually absent in non-pathogenic E. coli. The study was undertaken to characterize the properties like hemolysin production, serotypes and multi drug resistance (MDR) in routinely administered antimicrobial drugs in the UPEC isolates. Design & Methods: Laboratory confirmed 105 UPEC isolates, obtained by semi quantitative culture method from clinically symptomatic cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with fecal isolates of E. coli from 50 healthy individuals were included as controls. All isolates subjected to serotyping and haemolysin production on sheep blood agar. Antibiorgram was done using modified Kirby-Bauer’s disc diffusion method by the standard Clinical & Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: - All 105 serotyped strains showed high prevalence to O25 followed by O120 and others. Total 25 different serotypes were observed. Hemolysin production observed in 14 (13.33%) of uroisolates and 3 (6%) of control strains. MDR was found in 47 (44.76%) isolates with preponderance to 3 classes: Ampicillin, Co-trimoxazole and Gentamycin. No correlation between serotypes, haemolysin production and MDR was found. Interpretation & Conclusion: Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles are necessary to be evaluated in India where a severe misuse of antibiotics at all levels somewhere can be seen. An urgent and stringent policies of antimicrobial use and infection control in all hospitals is a need of hour. However, hemolysin production, serotyping and MDR in the isolates are reasonably easy and screening them in clinical microbiology laboratory of our hospital is a worthwhile experience. Key Words: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Serotype, Haemolysin production, Drug resistance.
The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of... more The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of genes
collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced
Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their
anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of
two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both
IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy
ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44%
and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology
modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using
RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot analysis of IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins showed that
conformations for 85.4 % and 84.7% of amino acid residues respectively are within the most favored regions
and the C-score, expected TM score and RMSD results validated the final refined models as reliable. Energy
minimization for IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins was done by using ArgusLab and the results suggested the final
model to be steadfast. The structures thus modeled may enable conceptualizing prophylactic & therapeutic
strategies against many viral diseases.
Introduction: Herbal medicines still remain the mainstay of about 70–75% of the world population,... more Introduction: Herbal medicines still remain the mainstay of about 70–75% of the world population, mainly in developing countries for primary health care because of better compatibility, cultural acceptability and lesser side effects. In the present study we assessed the antioxidant and larvicidal activity of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea. Objectives: To assess the antioxidant and larvicidal activity of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea. Materials and Methods: Antioxidant activity of aqueous and methanol extract of leaves of Hemidesmus indicus and Lepidagathis luthea was determined by finding the total reducing capacity of ferricyanide complex, spectrophotometrically and DPPH method. Larvicidal bioassay was carried out as per World Health Organization standard protocols. Prior to that, the purity and phenolic content of the plant extracts were determined by total ash content and folin-ciocalteau method respectively. Results: Aqueous and methanol extracts from le...
INTRODUCTION: The 2009 Influenza Pandemic (‘Swine Flu’) caused by a novel H1N1 Influenza Virus (S... more INTRODUCTION: The 2009 Influenza Pandemic (‘Swine Flu’) caused by a novel H1N1 Influenza Virus (Swine Origin Influenza A; SOIA) has waved panic world-over since April 2009. Haffkine Institute is the regional centre for molecular diagnosis of Influenza Virus in and around Mumbai. We present here some important findings from our testing. MATERIALS: 3750 throat/nasal swab samples from patients suspected of Influenza were obtained during August–September 2009. Since viral safety has not been completely established, P2 level biosafety cabinets with P3 level safety practices were followed. METHODS: Molecular diagnosis was performed according to WHO/CDC recommended protocols. RNA extraction using spin-column-based kits and One-Step Real-Time Reverse-Transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) were used to diagnose SOIA along with Seasonal Influenza A. RESULTS: The percent positivity of SOIA is approximately 20%, while that of Seasonal Influenza A is approximately 16%. Analysis of partial epidemiological d...
Anti-retroviral therapy continues to be the mainstay for HIV treatment for the past three decades... more Anti-retroviral therapy continues to be the mainstay for HIV treatment for the past three decades. Considering the disease burden of HIV world wide it becomes imperative to find novel and effective antivirals to combat the spread of virus. This study was an attempt to explore the various nanoparticles like gold and silver nanoparticles and carbon nanobeads as potential antiviral agents against HIV. Anti-viral activity was assessed by standard drug susceptibility assay protocol. Among the candidates gold nanoparticles were found to show highest anti-viral activity.
INTRODUCTION: The first confirmed case of ‘Swine Flu’ Novel H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Origin Influe... more INTRODUCTION: The first confirmed case of ‘Swine Flu’ Novel H1N1 Influenza A (Swine Origin Influenza A; SOIA) reported in India on 16 May 2009 heralded an alarming increase in positive cases. Haffkine Institute is a regional center for the molecular diagnosis of Influenza in the Mumbai region. Here we present an analysis of the co-existence of the SOIA virus vis-à-vis the Seasonal Influenza A Virus in the community during August–September 2009. MATERIALS: 3750 throat/nasal swab samples from patients suspected of Influenza were obtained during August–September 2009. Since viral safety has not been completely established, P2 level biosafety cabinets with P3 level safety practices were followed. METHODS: Molecular diagnosis was carried out according to WHO/CDC recommended protocols. RNA extraction using spin-column-based kits and One-Step Real-Time Reverse-Transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) were used to diagnose SOIA along with Seasonal Influenza A. RESULTS: The overall percent positivity of ...
Research Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences
The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of ... more The interferon system protects the cell from viral infection through the induction of a group of genes collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44% and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot anal...
Emerging trends of exploiting plant cell culture for the production of high value phyto-pharmaceu... more Emerging trends of exploiting plant cell culture for the production of high value phyto-pharmaceuticals, immobilization of plant cell has a very important role.In the described study, the immobilized culture Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) was used to enhance the production of their active compoundCurcumin. The maximum content of Curcumin was obtained in cultures fed with 5mg/100ml of Cinnamic acid (3.36%per 300beads) at the age of two weeks in Zenk medium.To examine the involvement of protein in curcumin biosynthesis, we have also examined curcumin content as well as the protein profile of treated samples of curcuma longa in in vitrostatic culture.Significantly, the seven fold enhancement in curcumin content was obtained in two weeks old rhizome culture,, which was maintained on Zenk production media incorporated with 5 mg/l of cinnamic acid (Control 1.57%and induced 8.717%).Quantitative estimation was done by using HPTLC with standard curcumin. In Protein profile studies,all the tre...
Testing and Research, Parel Mumbai 400012. ABSTRACT Plant cell culture system has served as an al... more Testing and Research, Parel Mumbai 400012. ABSTRACT Plant cell culture system has served as an alternative to enhance the production of high value phyto-pharmaceuticals. In the described study, the immobilized culture and static culture of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) were used to maximize the production of the bioactive compound Curcumin. It was observed that Curcumin content in vitro studies (static as well as immobilize cultures) were enhanced in one week old cultures fed with 5mg/100ml of media (Static 8.71%; immobilize 2.03%). Statistically significant (seven fold) enhancement in Curcumin content was obtained in one week old static culture, which was maintained on Zenk production media incorporated with cinnamic acid (Control 1.57% and induced 8.717%). Quantitative estimation was done using HPTLC analysis with standard Curcumin. To evaluate the effect of treatment on total protein in Curcumin biosynthesis, we have examined Curcumin content as well as the protein profile of tre...
Tylophora indica a branching climber indigenous to India is a major medicinal plant having variou... more Tylophora indica a branching climber indigenous to India is a major medicinal plant having various activities like anti asthmatic, hepato protective, anti tumor ,anti inflammatory and more .. The main objective was to evaluate the homogeneity of the regenerated microshoots of Tylophora indica to its mother plant. Regenerated micro shoots were developed from leaf explants via indirect organogenesis using specific culturing conditions .Work was carried out to develop microshoots of Tylophora indica and then the regenerated micro shoots were subjected for the RAPD and ISSR analysis to scrutinize for their polymorphism with the mother plant. Due to overexploitation, plant tissue culture techniques has been used to conserve this extinct sps.DNA was extracted from regenerant and subjected to RAPD and ISSR analysis separately for molecular characterization. . In the case of RAPD, the bands obtained were all mono morphic and hence it was proved that the regenerants are true-to-type within t...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Urinary bladder is a hollow, collapsible, smooth muscular organ shaped like a balloon, which is a... more Urinary bladder is a hollow, collapsible, smooth muscular organ shaped like a balloon, which is a part of the urinary system. The walls of urinary bladder consists of four layers namely mucosa, submucosa, muscularis and the serosa. The function of urinary bladder is to relax and store urine during filling and to contract forcefully in order to empty the bladder during micturition. The nervous system monitors and controls almost every movement of urinary bladder through a series of positive and negative feedback loops. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a rampant epidemic worldwide. DM affects more than 285 million people worldwide in 2010 and it estimated that it would affect 439 million by the year 2030. This review focuses on pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for urologic complications of diabetes and emphasizing on recent developments in our understanding of this condition. We also tried to shed some light on molecular biology which takes place during diabetes mellitus urinary bla...
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more dynamic than any other diseases in both developin... more Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more dynamic than any other diseases in both developing and developed countries. Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs) are icosahedral, small, non-enveloped particle measuring ~55 nm in diameter. They are ~8000 base-pair (bp), double stranded circular DNA molecule which wrapped into a protein shell by two molecules namely, L1 and L2. The HPV genome has the coding capacity for two late proteins (L1 and L2) and for six early proteins (E1, E2, E4–E7) which are necessary for the replication of the viral DNA and for the assembly of newly produced virus particles within the infected cells. More than 100 HPV types have been characterized molecularly and about 40 types are able to infect the epithelial lining of the anogenital tract and other mucosal areas of the human body. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a necessary cause of cervical, anogenital, upper aerodigestive tract and skin cancers. Other cofactors are necessary for progression from cervical HPV inf...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease which can infect diffe... more Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease which can infect different parts of the body including uterus. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women worldwide. The HPV-related disease appears to be increasing but treatment is limited, difficult and insufficient with high relapse rate. This growth in disease burden had made the development of two an effective prophylactic Human Papillomavirus vaccines namely Gardasil® - quadrivalent (Merck) and Cervarix™ - bivalent (GlaxoSmithKline). These vaccines are widely marketed internationally. However, pre-existing HPV infection is a highly prevalent in public health of developed and developing countries. According to published literature, antigen-specific T cell- mediated immunity is required for treatment of established HPV infection. Therefore, it is an important to develop vaccines that induce cell-mediated immune responses which are specific for early viral proteins in order to effect reg...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research
In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged into chromatin structures, whose basic unit is the nucleosome. A p... more In eukaryotes, DNA is packaged into chromatin structures, whose basic unit is the nucleosome. A principle component of chromatin that plays an important role in the regulation of DNA is the modification of histones. Since histones are post-translationally modified, there includes a large number of different histone post-translational modifications. These histone modifications create a repressive environment for gene expression, which in case of histone acetylation, are controlled by competing activities of two families of enzymes, histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDAC11 is a class IV protein of the HDAC family. The present aim of this study is to develop 3D model of HDAC11 by using bioinformatics tools. The design of the model is based on thorough evaluation of the HDAC-11 query sequence, Q96DB2, which was retrieved from UniProtKB. The physiochemical and primary analysis were computed using ExPASy Protparam tool. Functional characterization was com...
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects around 350 million of the global population. The current antivira... more Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects around 350 million of the global population. The current antivirals are laden with side effects as well as expense burden. An alternative medication based on Ayurveda is being proposed to counter this scenario. Hep-1 to Hep-6 are herbal formulations used for the treatment of hepatitis B virus. They are also indicated for alleviation of hepatotoxicity. The molecular mechanism involved in the anti-HBV activity of these formulations is being studied using in-vitro models for the first time. Inhibition of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) secretion from the transfected human hepatocarcinoma PLC/PRF/5 cells, as well as inhibition of the surface antigen binding was taken up in the present study. These anti-HBV activities were detected by HBsAg specific antibody-mediated enzyme assay (ELISA) at concentrations ranging from 50 to 250μg/mL. The results indicate that the suppression of HBsAg production and inhibition were best observed at 150μg/mL across the e...
International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Histones are the most abundant proteins associated with the eukaryotic DNA. The N-terminal tails ... more Histones are the most abundant proteins associated with the eukaryotic DNA. The N-terminal tails of these histones are subjected to modifications primarily by two enzymes namely, Histone acetyl transferases (HATs) and Histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDACs help in the regulation of the acetylation of histones and the condensation of the chromatin in its stable form. HDACs are considered as one of the promising targets in cancer biology studies. HDAC9 is a class II member of HDAC family and they are associated with many neurological disorders and a variety of cancers. The 3D structure of this HDAC9 (Q9UKV0) was not published. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop and validate the model structure of HDAC9 (Q9UKV0) using bioinformatics tools. The Physiochemical Characterization was carried out using ExPASy ProtParam tool, the Functional Characterization using Cysteine Recognition Server and HMMTOP Server and Molecular Modeling using I-TASSER. Model Refinement, Validation and Verifica...
Uploads
Papers by Abhay Chowdhary
Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence properties which are usually absent in non-pathogenic E. coli. The study was undertaken to characterize the properties like hemolysin production, serotypes and multi drug resistance (MDR) in routinely administered antimicrobial drugs in the UPEC isolates.
Design & Methods: Laboratory confirmed 105 UPEC isolates, obtained by semi quantitative culture method from clinically symptomatic cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with fecal isolates of E. coli from 50 healthy individuals were included as controls. All isolates subjected to serotyping and haemolysin production on sheep blood agar. Antibiorgram was done using modified Kirby-Bauer’s disc diffusion method by the standard Clinical & Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines.
Results: - All 105 serotyped strains showed high prevalence to O25 followed by O120 and others. Total 25 different serotypes were observed. Hemolysin production observed in 14 (13.33%) of uroisolates and 3 (6%) of control strains. MDR was found in 47 (44.76%) isolates with preponderance to 3 classes: Ampicillin, Co-trimoxazole and Gentamycin. No correlation between serotypes, haemolysin production and MDR was found.
Interpretation & Conclusion: Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles are necessary to be evaluated in India where a severe misuse of antibiotics at all levels somewhere can be seen. An urgent and stringent policies of antimicrobial use and infection control in all hospitals is a need of hour. However, hemolysin production, serotyping and MDR in the isolates are reasonably easy and screening them in clinical microbiology laboratory of our hospital is a worthwhile experience.
Key Words: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Serotype, Haemolysin production, Drug resistance.
collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced
Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their
anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of
two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both
IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy
ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44%
and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology
modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using
RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot analysis of IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins showed that
conformations for 85.4 % and 84.7% of amino acid residues respectively are within the most favored regions
and the C-score, expected TM score and RMSD results validated the final refined models as reliable. Energy
minimization for IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins was done by using ArgusLab and the results suggested the final
model to be steadfast. The structures thus modeled may enable conceptualizing prophylactic & therapeutic
strategies against many viral diseases.
Background & Objectives: - Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) harbors virulence properties which are usually absent in non-pathogenic E. coli. The study was undertaken to characterize the properties like hemolysin production, serotypes and multi drug resistance (MDR) in routinely administered antimicrobial drugs in the UPEC isolates.
Design & Methods: Laboratory confirmed 105 UPEC isolates, obtained by semi quantitative culture method from clinically symptomatic cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with fecal isolates of E. coli from 50 healthy individuals were included as controls. All isolates subjected to serotyping and haemolysin production on sheep blood agar. Antibiorgram was done using modified Kirby-Bauer’s disc diffusion method by the standard Clinical & Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines.
Results: - All 105 serotyped strains showed high prevalence to O25 followed by O120 and others. Total 25 different serotypes were observed. Hemolysin production observed in 14 (13.33%) of uroisolates and 3 (6%) of control strains. MDR was found in 47 (44.76%) isolates with preponderance to 3 classes: Ampicillin, Co-trimoxazole and Gentamycin. No correlation between serotypes, haemolysin production and MDR was found.
Interpretation & Conclusion: Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles are necessary to be evaluated in India where a severe misuse of antibiotics at all levels somewhere can be seen. An urgent and stringent policies of antimicrobial use and infection control in all hospitals is a need of hour. However, hemolysin production, serotyping and MDR in the isolates are reasonably easy and screening them in clinical microbiology laboratory of our hospital is a worthwhile experience.
Key Words: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Serotype, Haemolysin production, Drug resistance.
collectively known as the Interferon Stimulated Genes (ISGs). In recent times, the Interferon Induced
Transmembrane (IFITM) genes which belong to the family of small ISGs have gained importance owing to their
anti-viral & anti-proliferative properties. In this study, we have developed the three dimensional structure of
two of the protein products of these genes namely IFITM1 & IFITM3 using homology modeling approach. Both
IFITM1 and IFITM3 sequences were characterized in silico using various bioinformatics tools such as the Expasy
ProtParam, Cysteine Recognition server, CDD, SOPMA and TMHMM. Secondary structure analysis showed 44%
and 42.11% alpha helix content in IFITM1 and IFITM3 respectively making it stable for modeling. Homology
modeling of the IFITM1 AND IFITM3 protein structure was done using I-TASSER workspace and validated using
RAMPAGE and ArgusLab. Ramachandran plot analysis of IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins showed that
conformations for 85.4 % and 84.7% of amino acid residues respectively are within the most favored regions
and the C-score, expected TM score and RMSD results validated the final refined models as reliable. Energy
minimization for IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins was done by using ArgusLab and the results suggested the final
model to be steadfast. The structures thus modeled may enable conceptualizing prophylactic & therapeutic
strategies against many viral diseases.