Malaysian Journal of Biochemistry
& Molecular Biology
(E-ISSN: 2600-9005)
The Official Publication of the Malaysian Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (MSBMB)
Indexed by SCOPUS and Malaysian Citation Index (MYCITE)
ANNOUNCEMENT
With effect from 15th January 2023, all new submissions will be subjected to a MYR250 publication fee for every accepted paper.
Current Issue
August 2024
Malay. J. Biochem. Mol. Biol. (2024) 27 (2)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page 1- 15
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Mohd Iftar Johwan Johny @ Hasbullah, Bellericter Binjamin, Kimberly Ador, Januarius Gobilik, Clament Chin Fui Seung, Lum Mok Sam, Nurul’Azah Mohd Yaakub, Jamilah Lee Nyuk Choon, and Suzan Benedick
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VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (VOCS), DIHYDROXYACETONE (DHA) AND METHYLGLYOXAL (MGO) IN TROPICAL MULTIFLORAL HONEY (APIDAE; APIS CERANA) FROM SITES OF DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN IN SABAH, BORNEO
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Abstract
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The content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and methylglyoxal (MGO) in honey depends on the geographical origin but has little been studied in Sabah. The aim of this study was to determine the content of VOCs, DHA and MGO in raw honey of Apis cerana at six study sites that differ in their geographical origin. Each of the study sites contains 3 replicates of honey samples: Ulu Kiulu, Tuaran (adjacent to lowland rainforest park), Nadau, Tamparuli (adjacent to highland forest park), Membatu Laut, Kudat (coconut farm), BHBC, Kudat (Acacia and secondary forest), Kg. Gana, Kota Marudu (rubber and orchard) and FSA, Sandakan (oil palm and orchard). Samples were subjected to liquid–liquid extraction process, followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for identification and characterisation of VOCs. The DHA and MGO in Apis cerana honey were analysed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results indicate that a higher number of VOCs and unique VOCs were identified in honey from forest and mixed forest sites than in honey from other study sites. The study found that the content of DHA and MGO varied according to geographical origin (p < 0.001). The honey sample from Gana, Kota Marudu had the highest DHA concentration (mg/kg), followed by FSA, Sandakan and Membatu Laut, Kudat. The honey sample from BHBC had the highest MGO concentration (mg/kg), followed by Membatu Laut, Kudat and Ulu Kiulu, Tuaran. This study concluded that geographical origin with different botanical sources plays a crucial role in the bioavailability of bioactive nutraceutical/functional therapeutic compounds in multifloral honey, A. cerana in Sabah..
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Page 16 - 25
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Adam Raihan Priambada, Putra Santoso, and Resti Rahayu
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IN SILICO STUDY ON THE POTENTIAL OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS FROM COLOCASIA ESCULENTA VAR. MENTAWAI IN INTERVENING TOLL-LIKE RECEPTOR 4 SIGNALING PATHWAY TO MANAGE INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
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Abstract
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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the diseases that is closely associated with the emergence of colorectal cancer. While Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a preventive measure against IBD, they come with serious side effects. We aim to assess the potential of bioactive compounds from Mentawai taro (Colocasia esculenta Var. Mentawai) in intervening the cellular signaling system of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) which is closely associated with the progression of IBD. In silico study was conducted using PASS online and Lipinski's five rules followed by molecular docking. The ligands and receptor were obtained from the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and PubChem. Validation and visualization were performed using BIOVIA and PyMol. Based on the PASS online test, all bioactive compounds from C. esculenta have biological activity as anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcerative agents. Furtermore, the results of molecular docking revealed that the compounds from C. esculenta namely astaxanthin, lauric acid, and octadecanoic acid have potential to interact with TLR4 signaling system. However, astaxanthin appears as the most potent compound with the highest binding affinity to TLR4 (-9.0 kcal/mol) and the predominant conventional hydrogen bond. In addition, astaxanthin outperforms the binding affinity of standard drug namely dexamethasone (-8.4 kcal/mol) towards TLR4. Therefore, astaxanthin from Mentawai taro could be considered a promising candidate for drug development in managing IBD.
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Page 26 - 30
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Thyviaah Ananthan, Nurzafirah binti Mazlana, Norazalina binti Saad, BA Venmathi Maran​
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CYTOTOXICITY OF COLLAGEN EXTRACTED FROM TOMATO JELLYFISH (CRAMBIONE MASTIGOPHORA)
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Abstract
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A comprehensive study was conducted to assess the cytotoxicity of collagen extracted from the tomato jellyfish (Crambione mastigophora) across various of the jellyfish regions: bell, whole body, and oral arm. The extracts were tested using 3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells. The results showed that collagen extracted from the bell, whole body and oral arm exhibit no IC50 value up to 500µg/ml. Similarly, standard collagen (bovine tendon type II collagen) also showed no cytotoxic effect on the 3T3 cells. These findings provide insights into the safety and potential applications of tomato jellyfish collagen in various industries.
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Page 39 - 50
Redzuan Nul Hakim Abdul Razak, Mohd. Azri Bin Abd. Jalil, Nor Farihatasha Isa, Amynah Noor Zahurein Binti Hazidan, Mohamad Farqhan Bin Kelana, Nik Abd Rahman Fahmi Losman, Muhammad Alif Mazlan, Muhammad Lokman Bin Md Isa and Moustafa Ibrahim
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SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THE APPLICATION OF CELLULAR CULTURE TECHNOLOGY APPROACH IN CONSERVATION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES
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Abstract
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The extinction of wildlife species is concerning. This issue has posed a threat to the whole biodiversity system significantly. Nevertheless, the extinction of wildlife species can be controlled and stabilized through a conservation program of in situ and ex situ approach respectively but in need of additional programs to save the species. This situation emphasizes the importance of ex situ conservation strategies, particularly cellular technology, in supplementing in situ efforts, which are becoming increasingly challenging. Cellular technology has an important role in conserving genetic diversity through optimized protocols such as assisted reproductive technology (ART). This paper conducts a systematic review and critical analysis of the current understanding of cellular technology in conservation. The study conducted an electronic search in three databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus for articles published between 2010 and 2021. The search used keywords such as “cellular technology,” “assisted reproductive technology,” “cryopreservation,” “conservation,” “rescue,” “save,” and “endangered species.” The findings suggest that assisted reproductive technologies are identified as cellular technologies for ex situ conservation efforts. However, the effectiveness of these technologies depends on various parameters specific to each endangered species. These parameters include genetic diversity, estrous cycle length, timing and method of semen collection, and the sperm quality and quantity. This review explores the application of cellular technology for conservation of endangered species and their future impact in conservation programs. More exploration is needed to fully harness the potential of cellular technologies in saving endangered species.
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Page 38 - 59
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Muhammad Amal Zulkipli, Aisyah Jaafar, Yuslina Zakaria, Elhassane Anouar, Mizaton Hazizul Hasan
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ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF NATURALLY DERIVED IRIDOIDS: A SCOPING REVIEW OF IN SILICO STUDIES
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Abstract
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This scoping review explores the current state of molecular docking studies on naturally derived iridoid compounds, focusing specifically on their engagement with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant targets. The review searches the PubMed and Scopus databases to locate relevant published studies. Following a systematic search strategy, identified citations were compiled, screened by two independent reviewers, and evaluated against the inclusion criteria. Data extraction was conducted using a reviewer-developed instrument, and appropriate details were captured. The extracted data was stored and analysed. Results were discussed, supplemented by data tables and reported adhering to the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The studies included were characterised as in silico, with a total of 364 studies initially retrieved. After removing duplicates, 143 studies remained, out of which 40 were subjected to a full read, and ultimately, 29 studies were deemed eligible for qualitative synthesis. Iridoids, particularly swertiamarin, amarogentin, geniposide, gentiopicroside, and loganic acid, surfaced as the predominant subjects of examination, spotlighting their pharmacological anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. Other iridoids such as aucubin, genipin, verminoside and sweroside were also examined. This review highlights the most potent naturally produced iridoids, each exhibiting the highest affinity to different target proteins, providing a basis for choosing substances and directing more experimental and clinical research. The data from these studies is essential for figuring out how these chemicals could be used in biotechnology and medicine, especially to fight diseases related to inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Page 60 - 69
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Norliza binti Julmohammad, Kathi Ann Iran Money, Salma Samidin and Nurul Huda
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EFFECT OF pH ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL, MICROSTRUCTURE, AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF DRY HEATED WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE-LACTOSE AND WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE
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Abstract
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This study aimed to investigate the effects of pH on the physicochemical and functional properties of whey protein isolate (WPI) conjugated with lactose through dry heating. Whey proteins are prone to heat and oxidation, leading to changes in physicochemical properties and limiting their application. Conjugation can improve their stability and functionality. WPI was conjugated with lactose through the Maillard reaction at pH 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 using dry heating (60°C, 8 h). Physicochemical and functional properties were analyzed using SDS-PAGE, FTIR, zeta potential, SEM, and functional tests. Conjugation of WPI with lactose significantly improved emulsifying capacity, solubility, and water-holding capacity, with the most pronounced effects observed at pH 7.0, where the degree of glycation was highest. The physicochemical properties, including SDS-PAGE and OPA assay results, showed successful conjugation, with the highest glycation occurring at pH 7.0. The functional properties, particularly emulsifying activity, water-holding capacity, and solubility, were significantly enhanced by conjugation, especially at pH 7.0, while oil-holding capacity showed minimal improvement. Conjugation at pH 7.0 provided the optimal balance between improved protein functionality and stability, suggesting its potential application in food products requiring enhanced emulsifying and solubility properties. This study shows that conjugating WPI with lactose via the Maillard reaction significantly enhances its functional properties, with pH 7.0 being the most favorable condition for improving protein functionality.
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Page 70 - 73
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Mohd Azwan Jenol, Purkan Purkan, Dwi Kusuma Wahyuni, Sofijan Hadi, Listijani Suhargo, Mohamad Faizal Ibrahim, Lai-Yee Phang, Mohd Azuraidi Osman, Safinaz Abd Gani and Suraini Abd-Aziz
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ENHANCING SILAGE PRODUCTION FROM PINEAPPLE LEAVES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MICROBIAL AND ENZYME-ASSISTED APPROACHES
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Abstract
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In Indonesia, the pineapple industry plays a crucial role in the economy. However, the country faces a significant challenge with pineapple waste, as more than 40% of it remains unused, leading to environmental issues such as pollution, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Silage technology, involving the fermentation of forage crops in an anaerobic environment, is a common practice in agriculture to create livestock feed, especially during periods of low forage availability or unfavorable weather conditions. This study is aimed to explore the potential of utilizing pineapple leaves as a livestock feed by assessing the quality and aerobic stability of silage produced from these leaves. The research specifically investigated the impact of enzyme-assisted and microbial-assisted silage production methods on the nutritional and quality aspects of pineapple leaves silage. The findings revealed that both enzyme-assisted and microbial-assisted techniques enhance the pH, moisture content, and lactic acid content of the pineapple leaves silage when compared to the standard silage production method. This study underscored the significance of the assisted silage system in the improvement of the overall quality and nutritional value of pineapple leaves silage. By doing so, it not only creates a valuable feed resource for livestock but also contributes to food security, environmental sustainability, and enhanced livestock performance within the agricultural sector
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Page 74 - 81
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Hassan Rezazadeh, Mohammad Ramazani, Ahad Bavili-Tabrizi, Siavoush Dastmalchi, Alireza Mohajjel Nayebi, Armin Taheri, Rana Eftekharnahli, Senty Vun-Sang and Mohammad Iqbal
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FERRIC NITRILOTRIACETETE AUGMENTS 7,12-DIMETHYLBENZ(A) ANTHRACENE-INITIATED AND CROTON OIL-PROMOTED SKIN CARCINOGENESIS
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Abstract
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Although Ferric nitrilotriacetete (Fe-NTA) is a known renal carcinogen, its carcinogenic potential in skin remains poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the potential augmentation effects of Fe-NTA on the initiation and promotion stages of DMBA-induced and croton oil-promoted skin cancer development, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying the synergistic carcinogenic action of these agents. We for the first time demonstrates that Fe-NTA enhances skin carcinogenesis in mice initiated by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and promoted by croton oil. This study looked at the impact of Fe-NTA on croton oil-promoted tumour activation in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-initiated mouse cutaneous carcinogenesis. Four groups of mice, each consisting of 20 animals, were selected for the carcinogenicity tests. Group I served as the control and received no treatment. Groups II, III, and IV received daily topical applications of Fe-NTA at doses of 6, 9, and 12 mg iron per mouse, respectively, for a period of 2 weeks. Nine hours after the last administration of Fe-NTA, all groups of mice, including the control group, received a single topical application of 60 μg of DMBA in 200 μl of acetone. One week after DMBA treatment, the mice received twice-weekly topical applications of 1 mg croton oil in 200 µl acetone/mouse for a period of 30 weeks. The mice were then monitored for the occurrence of tumors up to 36 weeks. Higher doses of Fe-NTA induced an increase in tumor occurrence over times as compared to the control (DMBA+ Croton oil) treated group. Tumors appeared earlier in the Fe-NTA group, with a higher incidence number of tumors. We propose that Fe-NTA boosts croton oil, tumor-promoting potential, and that Fe-NTA-induced oxidative stress is effective for croton-oil mediated cutaneous carcinogenesis. In addition, croton oil-mediated lipid peroxide induction and [3H]thymidine uptake was greater in Fe-NTA treated group. We propose that Fe-NTA increases tumor promotion capability of croton oil and oxidative stress induced by Fe-NTA is effective for croton oil mediated cutaneous tumorigenesis.
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