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PRODUCTION OF BIOETHANOL USING LIGNOCELLULOSIC BIOMASS

2026-02-24T09:03:30Z

Title: PRODUCTION OF BIOETHANOL USING LIGNOCELLULOSIC BIOMASS Authors: VYAS, MANJARY Abstract: Fast declining fossil fuels, acute energy crisis energy, a spike in greenhouse gas emissions, and various environmental problems had led to a search for sustainable biofuels production. Extensive research is done in the field of biofuels such as bioethanol due to energy security, low environmental pollution effects, and cost benefits. The bioethanol production process has some necessary steps: pretreatment process, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, distillation, and drying. The conventional ethanol-producing substances are consumable food-based material. Nowadays, attention has been searched for a new alternative to raw material (i.e., nonfood based material) due to the world food crisis. Microorganisms have received much attention for biofuel production through lignocellulosic feedstocks. They secrete collaborative enzymes for digesting the lignocellulosic biomass to simple sugars and afterward fermenting them to alcohol. Other fuels are produced from the same feedstocks as bioethanol. Still, it faces challenges compared to its production processes, such as the price of raw material, pretreatment methods, enzymatic hydrolysis, and low tolerance of the fermenting strain leading to its fewer yields, downstream processing, production of undesired solvents, and fermentation inhibitors. So a new promising biofuel as bioethanol has taken a great attraction of the researchers due to its competitive properties compared to gasoline. The research and development on bioethanol as a gasoline substitute indicates that it is a representative renewable energy source, able to elevate engine performance, combustion and also reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In present research, the duckweed (Lemna minor, Family-Lemnaceae) has been highlighted as a feasible feedstock due to its rapid growth rate and adaptability in various aquatic environments. Its biochemical makeup, characterized by high starch content and low lignin content, allows for effective fermentation and saccharification. Duckweed offers numerous advantages, including minimal land use, considerable biomass output, and wastewater treatment. The paper highlights the potential of duckweed, specifically Lemna minor, as a sustainable source of bioethanol. Its advantageous characteristics like non-food feedstock, fastest growing angiosperm, v global adaptability across the world climates, assimilation of high starch with some nutrient modification, and less or no lignin content, make it a suitable candidate for bioethanol production. This research includes the production of starch-enhanced Lemna minor in nutrition starvation conditions for bioethanol production from it. The starch enhancement technique was standardized by performing experiments sequentially with organic manure, nitrogen-free Hoagland media and full-strength Hoagland media. Initially, the starch quantity was found to be 7% but it has been observed that during nitrogen stress, high starch accumulation was observed in Lemna minor, and on the 9th day it was found to be maximum, which was 26 % with standard deviation± 0.3. It was also observed that protein, glucose, and fructose composition were dropped during this experiment. One-way ANOVA analysis was performed for statistical analysis. It has been found that during the starch enhancement experiment, the starch level was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in nitrogen-free Hoagland media compared to the organic manure and full-strength Hoagland media. So Lemna minor During ethanol production amylase is commonly used enzyme to saccharify the raw plant biomass. This research mainly entailed the collection and preparation of raw materials, maintenance of microorganisms, and optimization of physical and chemical variables for the production of amylolytic cocktail and ethanol. OFAT determined the significant components that influenced the yield of enzymatic activity and ethanol. RSM with CCD was used to determine the influences between factors to obtain the highest yields of enzymes and ethanol. ANOVA was done to examine the significance of factor interactions while response surface plots showed how different factors affected enzyme reaction. Aspergillus niger MTCC-12987, Saccharomyces cereviceaeMTCC-171, and Candida shehatae MTCC-12913 were used for amylolytic cocktail and ethanol production respectively. Minitab 22 software was employed and response surface regression with Central composite design was used to examined an optimized process for maximum yield of enzyme activity and ethanol production. The highest enzyme activity value predicted by the software is 1063.81U/ml, which was closer to the experimental value of 1072.4 U/ml. Again the maximum ethanol production predicted by software is 11.83 % was closer to the experimental value of 10.77 %. Thus, the experimental performance under optimal conditions fitted the model's predictions fairly close. For the purpose to evaluate the combined effects of all independent variables in a fermentation process that may have developed from their interaction with one another, the RSM methodology has been employed as an alternative tool for statistical analysis.

TARGETING DOPAMINE D2 RECEPTOR IN SCHIZOPHRENIA: A THERAPEUTIC EVALUATION OF TERFENADINE

2026-01-29T05:50:34Z

Title: TARGETING DOPAMINE D2 RECEPTOR IN SCHIZOPHRENIA: A THERAPEUTIC EVALUATION OF TERFENADINE Authors: DWIVEDI, JAYA Abstract: Schizophrenia is a chronic and debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects millions worldwide. Characterized by a spectrum of symptoms—positive (hallucinations, delusions), negative (emotional flatness, social withdrawal), and cognitive (attention and memory deficits)—its pathophysiology is strongly linked to dopaminergic dysfunction, particularly the hyperactivity of dopamine D2 receptors (D2R) in the mesolimbic pathway. Current antipsychotic treatments predominantly target D2R to alleviate positive symptoms, yet many are associated with severe side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms, metabolic syndromes, and poor compliance, necessitating the search for safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives. This study explores the potential of terfenadine, a second-generation antihistamine, as a repurposed therapeutic agent targeting D2R in the treatment of schizophrenia. Although terfenadine was originally used for allergic conditions, its structural and pharmacological properties suggest possible interaction with CNS receptors, including dopaminergic sites. The evaluation involved a comprehensive in silico approach using BIOVIA Discovery Studio, 2 focusing on molecular docking to assess binding affinity and interaction specificity of terfenadine with the D2R protein. The interaction profile was compared with established antipsychotics such as haloperidol, bromoperidol, and moperone to validate its therapeutic relevance. Docking simulations revealed that terfenadine interacts with key amino acid residues in the D2R binding pocket—particularly Asp114, Phe389, and Ser193—through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, with a binding energy profile comparable to typical antipsychotics. The spatial orientation and conformational fit of terfenadine within the active site indicate potential antagonistic behavior, which could help reduce dopaminergic overactivity associated with the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. The findings support the hypothesis that terfenadine may serve as a viable candidate for drug repurposing in antipsychotic therapy. Its established pharmacokinetics and historical clinical use could accelerate its repositioning pathway, provided further in vitro and in vivo validation confirms efficacy and safety in psychiatric applications. Moreover, this study demonstrates the utility of molecular docking and visualization tools as cost-effective and efficient strategies in early-stage drug discovery and repositioning for neuropsychiatric disorders. In conclusion, targeting D2R remains a key strategy in the management of schizophrenia. The favorable interaction of terfenadine with D2R provides promising evidence for its potential as a novel therapeutic agent, offering a foundation for future research and development aimed at improving outcomes for individuals affected by schizophrenia.

IDENTIFICATION OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN PLANTS WITH POTENTIAL ANTI- DIABETIC ACTIVITY USING IN-SILICO TECHNIQUES

2026-01-20T04:53:17Z

Title: IDENTIFICATION OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN PLANTS WITH POTENTIAL ANTI- DIABETIC ACTIVITY USING IN-SILICO TECHNIQUES Authors: POOJA Abstract: Background: The prevalence of diabetic person and the negative consequence of readily accessible anti-hyperglycemic medications have drawn researchers' immersion to the need for novel therapeutic strategies. One method for reducing postprandial hyperglycemia by postponing the absorption and digestion of crabs is to inhibit the activity of enzymes that dissolve carbohydrates. The identification of phytochemicals from plants with potential anti-diabetic activity using in- silico techniques has gained significant attention in recent years. The telltale sign of diabetes is high blood glucose levels., a chronic metabolic illness, and natural substances derived from plants are showing promising outcomes in treating this condition. This abstract makes an effort to provide a summary of the research conducted in this area. Researchers have discovered phytochemicals that show potential interactions with enzymes and receptors linked to obesity, including dipeptidyl peptidase is IV (DPP-IV), protein the tyros phosphate 41B (PTP1B), - glucosidase, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma (PPAR), and 11- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11-HSD1). Numerous investigations have found phytochemicals with strong binding affinities to various molecular targets, demonstrating their potential as anti-diabetic medicines. Objectives: Investigating phytochemicals, antioxidants, the inhibition of digestive enzymes, and the molecular docking of powerful extracts were among the goals of the study. Materials and Procedures In this work, we evaluate the total phenolic and avonoids concentrations as well as The inhibitory effects of A. racemosus, B. ciliata, C. gigantea, M. pudica, P. demblica, and S. nigrum on substrate-based -glucosidase and -amylase. The DPPH radical's scavenging was another way to measure antioxidant activity. Agar well diffusion method was also used to study antibacterial activity. Bioactive substances from B. ciliatag were molecularly docked using AutoDock vina. Results: B. ciliata, M. pudica, and P. emblica show signicant impede properties against the α- glucosidase and α-amylase in IC50 (μg/ml) of (1.24 ± 0.01,45.19 ±1.06), (34.73 ± 0.64,99.93 ± 0.9) nossignicant activity) accordingly suggesting an excellent source fordisolating a possible candidate for a drug for diabetes. In addition to significant antibacterial activity against the vi bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella, pneumonia, these plants additionally with IC50 values ranging from 12.2 to 25.5 g/mL, demonstrated substantial antioxidant activity.Bergeniag looked to be a powerful amylase and glucosidase inhibitor. It is necessary to conduct more study to characterize inhibitory substances. Conclusion: Bergenia extract proved to be a strong inhibitor of both glucosidase and amylase. It is necessary to conduct more study to characterize inhibitor substances.

IDENTIFICATION AND EXPRESSION ANALYSIS OF GENES INVOLVED IN VITAMINS BIOSYNTHESIS AND FRUIT RIPENING IN CAPSICUM SPECIES

2026-01-13T06:31:02Z

Title: IDENTIFICATION AND EXPRESSION ANALYSIS OF GENES INVOLVED IN VITAMINS BIOSYNTHESIS AND FRUIT RIPENING IN CAPSICUM SPECIES Authors: DUBEY, MEENAKSHI Abstract: Chili peppers (Capsicum spp., family Solanaceae) are among the world‘s most economically important vegetable crops, valued for their rich nutritional and medicinal properties. These diploid plants (2n = 24; ~3.5 Gb genome) are believed to have originated in tropical Central and South America around 7500 BCE. Of the more than 38 reported species, five are widely cultivated: C. annuum, C. chinense, C. frutescens, C. baccatum, and C. pubescens. India, the world‘s leading producer (1.7 million tons annually; Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, 2022; FAO, 2022; USDA FAS, 2023), harbors remarkable genetic diversity, particularly in the Northeast, which is home to unique landraces such as the fiery hot Bhut jolokia (C. chinense). The genus is a biochemical powerhouse, rich in vitamins (both water- and fat-soluble), antioxidants (carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols), and capsaicinoids, which collectively contribute to numerous health benefits including anti-cancer, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as industrial applications such as food coloring and pest control. Although closely related to tomato- a well-established model for fruit crops the molecular mechanisms underlying important traits in Capsicum, such as fruit development, ripening, and the biosynthesis of essential vitamins (e.g., ascorbate and tocopherol), remain poorly understood. This knowledge gap has hindered targeted breeding efforts to improve desired fruit traits, quality and nutritional value in Capsicum. This study employed an integrative genomics approach to address these gaps. Orthology- based mining identified key genes involved in fruit development, ripening, and vitamin biosynthesis (Vitamin C and E) pathways in C. annuum, C. baccatum, and C. chinense genomes. Their expression profiles were analyzed using RNA-Seq data and quantitative real- time PCR (qRT-PCR), and correlated with phenotypic data, including vitamin quantification by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography HPLC at three distinct fruit developmental stages in contrasting genotypes. Furthermore, a set of functional molecular markers- Insertions/Deletions (InDels) and Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) were developed from the iv candidate genes associated with fruit development, ripening, and Vitamin C and E biosynthesis. Our investigation yielded several important findings. We identified 32 orthologs associated with fruit development and ripening, of which 12 showed significant differential expressions, further validated by qRT-PCR, six out 12 genes e.g., MADS- RIN, SGR1, ETR4, LeSPL, XTH5, MADS-protein1) shows almost similar expression in both qRT and transcriptome-MADS-RIN gene showed consistent, extreme upregulation (>500-fold) in ripening fruit across all species. SGR1 displayed consistently high expression in fruit, with the highest levels in C. frutescens in both datasets. ETR4, LeSPL, XTH5, MADS-protein1- Both methods captured the same pattern of higher expression in early stages (flower, Early fruit, breaker) and a decline upon maturity. Out of above some genes found with opposite/discordant expression, 2 genes GLK2 and hydroquinone glucosyltransferase, and NSGT1 significant differences in both qRT and transcriptome- GLK2 qRT-PCR showed upregulation in C. annuum but downregulation in others, while the transcriptome suggested downregulation in all three species. Hydroquinone glucosyltransferase showed opposing regulatory trends between the two methods. NSGT1 expression patterns differed significantly between the platforms. While in TAGL1, FUL1, and FUL2, both methods agreed on high expression, they showed minor differences in the precise level and tissue-specificity of expression. Significantly, the MADS-RIN ortholog (LOC107847473) exhibited a striking >500-fold upregulation in Mature fruit, underscoring its central regulatory role. Expression analyses of ethylene receptors revealed species-specific ripening behaviors, with C. frutescens displaying climacteric-like characteristics. These results demonstrate strong concordance between transcriptome profiling and qRT-PCR validation across developmental stages. Analysis of vitamins content across different fruit developmental stages in contrasting genotypes revealed the highest accumulation of Vitamin C in Capsicum species, in C. chinense, as in Cc-9 (38.41 mg/g) in C. frutescens as in Cf-7 (29.19 mg/g), and in C. annuum in Ca-8 (41.77 mg/g). while highest Vitamin E levels were recorded in C. v chinense in Cc-10 (109.39 mg/g), in C. frutescens in Cf-9 (112.44 mg/g), and in C. annuum in Ca-5 (111.43 mg/g). On average, C. chinense exhibited the highest Vitamin C content across stages, (25.33 mg/g), followed by C. annuum (24.25 mg/g) and C. frutescens (22.09 mg/g). Genotypes such as from C. chinense (Cc-1,Cc-2, Cc-3, Cc-5, Cc-6 and Cc-9), from C. annuum (Ca-3, Ca-4,Ca-7 and Ca-8) and from C. frutescens (Cf-4, Cf-5, Cf-7 and Cf-8) for Vitamin C, and genotypes from C. chinense (Cc-2, Cc-3, Cc-9, and Cc-10), from C. annuum (Ca-1, Ca-2 ,Ca-f and Ca-6) and from C. frutescens (Cf-2, Cf-4, Cf-7, Cf-9 and Cf-10) for Vitamin E, represent valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at developing Capsicum varieties enriched in Vitamins C and E content. A comprehensive genome-wide analysis identified 29 and 81, 44 and 85, and 36 and 70 putative genes involved in Vitamin C and Vitamin E biosynthesis/degradation in the genomes of C. annuum, C. baccatum, and C. chinense, respectively. Among these, several genes associated with Vitamins C and E were found to be differentially expressed in RNA-Seq data generated from three fruit developmental stages of contrasting vitamins-rich species (C. annuum, C. chinense, and C. frutescens), including key regulators for Vitamin C such as GMP downregulated during fruit development in all species, GME shows same expression pattern in both qRT and transcriptome, AKR2 & GPI: both downregulated in all three species, GGP expression higher in C. annuum (qRT) vs higher in Early fruit (transcriptome), MIOX shows high in C. chinense (qRT) vs low in all species (transcriptome), AKR38 high in C. annuum (qRT) vs no expression in transcriptome, GPP upregulated in maturity in qRT and downregulated transcriptome, GalDH higher expression in qRT and very low expression in transcriptome and PMI gene expression higher in C. frutescens qRT and in transcriptome higher in C. annuum. Similarly for Vitamin E key regulators genes HPPD & IPI upregulated during fruit development in both qRT and transcriptome, VTE3 & VTE4: Nearly identical expression patterns in both methods, TAT shows species-specific expression in qRT and opposite pattern in transcriptome, TYRA expression high in C. frutescens qRT and low/no detection in transcriptome, VTE1 found in qRT and low/no expression in transcriptome, vi VTE2 expressed in all samples in qRT vs minimal expression transcriptome and VTE5 gene expressed across tissues in qRT vs no expression in transcriptome. qRT-PCR validation confirmed the transcriptome-based expression patterns in Vitamin C with Similar expression 4 genes were found (GMP, GME, AKR2, GPI, AKR1) in both qRT and transcriptome and Opposite/Discordant expression in 6 genes (GGP, MIOX, AKR38, GPP, GalDH, PMI) and in Vitamin E with similar expression 5 genes (GGDR, HPPD, IPI, VTE3, VTE4) and in opposite/discordant expression 5 genes (TAT, TYRA, VTE1, VTE2, VTE5) was found in both qRT and transcriptome. Correlation analysis between gene expression and fruit vitamin content revealed significant associations, suggesting that these genes represent strong candidates for functional validation through approaches such as overexpression or genome editing. To facilitate future genetic and breeding studies, we developed 49 gene-based SSR markers associated with fruit development and ripening traits, along with 24 SSR and 37 InDel markers linked to vitamin traits. These markers, after validation, could be deployed in breeding programs targeting improved fruit quality and nutritional content. This is the first comprehensive study to report genome-wide identification and expression profiling of genes involved in fruit development, ripening, and vitamin biosynthesis in Capsicum. The identified candidate genes, together with the novel SSR and InDel markers, represent valuable genomic resources that can accelerate molecular breeding of biofortified Capsicum varieties with enhanced vitamin content. These findings provide a foundational framework for researchers working on fruit crop improvement, particularly in the molecular dissection and manipulation of key nutritional and fruit traits.