http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/245 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:57:40 GMT 2026-04-27T18:57:40Z http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2329 Title: Studies on Isolation Characterization and Production of Fungal L Methionase a Promising Anti Cancer Agent From Soil Authors: Rajpara, Roshniben Jayshukhbhai; Dr. Anmol, Kumar Abstract: L-Methionase has emerged as a potent enzyme with promising applications in cancer therapy due to its ability to selectively deplete methionine an essential amino acid for methionine-dependent tumor cells. This study aimed to isolate and characterize fungal strains capable of producing Lmethionase, optimize its production, purify the enzyme, and evaluate its in vitro anticancer potential. Soil samples were collected from diverse ecological regions across Gujarat, India including marine, riverine, and agricultural sites to explore fungal biodiversity. A total of 50 fungal isolates were obtained, and qualitative screening using modified Czapek-Dox agar identified Aspergillus fumigatus MF13 as the most potent L-methionase producer. Quantitative assessment through enzyme assay and specific activity estimation further confirmed MF13’s enzymatic potential, with a maximum activity of 4.31 U/mL/min and a specific activity of 1.48 U/mg. Molecular identification using ITS sequencing validated MF13’s identity as Aspergillus fumigatus (GenBank accession: OQ690549). Optimization of enzyme production was achieved using a combination of One-Factor-at-a-Time (OFAT), Plackett-Burman Design (PBD), and Central Composite Design (CCD), culminating in a 2.57 U/mL/min yield under optimal conditions: 30°C, pH 8.0, 2.4 g/L yeast extract, and 1.2 g/L dipotassium phosphate. Purification via cold acetone precipitation and Sephadex G-75 chromatography resulted in a 10.5-fold increase in purity, with a specific activity of 40.0 U/mg and molecular weight of ~45 kDa, as confirmed by SDS-PAGE. Biochemical characterization showed optimal activity at pH 7.5 and 30°C, and notable stability under alkaline and moderate thermal conditions. Enzyme kinetics revealed a Km of 0.674 mM and Vmax of 0.871 U/mL, indicating strong substrate affinity. In vitro cytotoxicity assays (MTT) demonstrated dose-dependent anticancer activity of purified L-methionase. HT-29 (colon cancer) cells were highly sensitive (IC₅₀ ≈ 175 μg/mL), while MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer) cells showed resistance (IC₅₀ ≈ 390 μg/mL), suggesting variable methionine dependency. This research highlights Aspergillus fumigatus MF13 as a promising source of L-methionase and reinforces the enzyme's potential as a selective anticancer agent. The successful optimization and purification pave the way for further development in therapeutic applications, with future work focusing on overcoming resistance mechanisms and evaluating in vivo efficacy. Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2329 2025-07-01T00:00:00Z http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2291 Title: Co-Application of Metal Oxide Nanoparticle(s) and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on the Growth of Groundnut Plant (Arachis hypogaea L.) Authors: Vasant, Gunja Hiteshbhai; Raghav, Ragini Abstract: Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an essential oilseed crop that plays a pivotal role in global agriculture and food security. However, its productivity is often restricted by minimal nutrient uptake, environmental stress, and dependency on chemical fertilizers. This study investigates an innovative, sustainable approach to enhance groundnut growth and productivity by integrating plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). The research aims to explain the synergistic effects of these biotic and abiotic agents on plant growth, and nutrient assimilation, laying a foundation for eco-friendly agricultural practices. Rhizospheres soil samples from groundnut fields in Saurashtra, Gujarat, were collected and analyzed. A total of 84 rhizobacterial isolates were screened for their ability to synthesize plant growth-promoting (PGP) compounds, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ammonia, hydrogen cyanide (HCN), gibberellins, and phosphate-solubilizing activity. The most promising isolates were identified as Priestia megaterium (RGKP3), Bacillus haynesii (RG12), and Pseudomonas songnenensis (RG8) based on 16S rRNA sequencing and Gram staining. These strains demonstrated robust plant growth promoting (PGP) traits, contributing to root growth, nutrient availability, and stress mitigation. ZnO NPs were synthesized using the sol-gel method with zinc acetate as the precursor. Advanced analytical techniques, including UV-visible spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), were employed to characterize the crystalline structure, morphology, and optical properties of the nanoparticles. A concentration of 400 ppm ZnO NPs was determined as optimal for biological applications, ensuring compatibility with PGPR strains without inhibiting bacterial growth. The compatibility and synergistic effects of PGPR strains and ZnO NPs were assessed through growth curve analyses and seed priming experiments. Groundnut seeds treated with the combinations of PGPR and ZnO NPs were evaluated for germination rates, vigor index, and plant growth parameters under controlled conditions. Biochemical analyses were conducted to measure chlorophyll, carotenoid, flavonoids, sugars, proteins, and proline content, providing insights into photosynthesis, metabolic activity, and stress resilience. The combined application of PGPR and ZnO NPs significantly improved seed germination rates and vigor index, with Priestia megaterium (RGKP3) and ZnO NPs achieving the highest germination rate of 92%. Physical growth parameters, including root length, shoot length, number of leaves, and biomass, were noticeably enhanced by the combined treatments compared to individual applications. RGKP3+ZnO NPs resulted in the highest shoot and leaf development, while RG8+ZnO NPs were particularly effective in root proliferation. Biochemical analysis revealed significant improvements in chlorophyll, carotenoid, and flavonoid levels, reflecting enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and antioxidant activity. The combination of RGKP3 and ZnO NPs produced the highest chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations, contributing to increased photosynthetic rates. RG8+ZnO NPs demonstrated remarkable increases in sugar and protein contents, indicating enhanced metabolic activity and stress mitigation. Reduced proline levels in treated plants underscored the role of these treatments in reducing stress. Among the three strains, Priestia megaterium (RGKP3) excelled in promoting photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor. Pseudomonas songnenensis (RG8) exhibited a pronounced impact on biochemical traits, particularly in sugar and protein accumulation. Bacillus haynesii (RG12) contributed to plant growth and development but showed relatively moderate biochemical effects compared to RGKP3 and RG8. The integration of PGPR and ZnO NPs offers a sustainable approach to enhancing crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. By improving nutrient uptake, promoting growth, and mitigating stress, this strategy reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers, aligning with the goals of sustainable agriculture. Priestia megaterium in combination with ZnO NPs demonstrated the highest potential for improving photosynthetic efficiency and plant vigor, whereas Pseudomonas songnenensis showed exceptional biochemical enhancements. These findings pave the way for broader agricultural applications, including field trials under diverse environmental conditions. Further research is recommended to optimize the formulations and explore the longterm effects of these treatments on soil health and crop yields. The study highlights the potential of integrating microbial inoculants with nanotechnology to revolutionize farming practices, ddressing global challenges in food security and environmental sustainability. Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2291 2024-12-01T00:00:00Z http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2281 Title: Anti-proliferative activity of surfactins on human cancer cells and their potential use in therapeutics Authors: Tank, Jigna G.; Pandya, Rohan V. Abstract: Surfactins are cyclic lipopeptides that are isolated from various Bacillus strains. They are made up of heptapeptides and β-hydroxy fatty acids of variable chain lengths of carbon atoms. Therapeutically they are known to inhibit invasion, migration, and colony formation of human breast carcinoma cells. The role of surfactins is also known as anti-proliferative agents against human cancer cells through induction of apoptosis, arrest of the cell cycle, or suppression of survival signaling. The cytotoxic activity of surfactins is also perceived against human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells, human colon cancer cells, and hepatic carcinoma cells. Considering the wide spectrum of targets, the molecular effects of surfactins are diverse in different cancer cells and they can serve as promising chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer. Surfactins are being delivered to the targeted cancer cells through nano-carriers or nano-formulations. The present review article provides insight on different types and variations of surfactins, their molecular effect on different cancer cells, and their therapeutic use in the treatment of human cancer. Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2281 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2261 Title: A Solvent-tolerant Alkaline Lipase from Bacillus sp. DM9K3 and Its Potential Applications in Esterification and Polymer Degradation Authors: Singh, P.; Patel, V.; Shah, V.; Madamwar, D. Abstract: Solvent-tolerant lipase produced by Bacillus sp. DM9K3 has been isolated from the hypersaline area, White Rann of Kachchh, Gujarat, India. The strain initially showed lipase activity of 11.1 U/mL in a basal medium which increased to 52.0 U/mL under optimized culture conditions. Bacillus sp. DM9K3 exhibited stability at 7% salinity, pH 9.0 and 50°C. The extracellular lipase was partially purified by acetone precipitation followed by DEAE-cellulose resulting in 39-fold purification with 40% yield. Metals ions such as Mg2+, Ca2+ and K+ showed enhanced enzyme activity. EDTA did not have a significant effect on activity suggesting that lipase is not metalloenzyme. The lipase under study showed the highest activity when palmitate (C16) was used as a substrate and was also highly stable in organic solvents such as cyclooctane and benzene. The partially purified enzyme was immobilized for increasing the efficiency of the ethyl caprylate (an orange flavored ester) synthesis in the presence of cyclooctane. Additionally, lipase of Bacillus sp. DM9K3 was explored for biodegradation of polycaprolactone microspheres and showed promising results for potential applications in drug delivery system. Sun, 01 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT http://10.9.150.37:8080/dspace//handle/atmiyauni/2261 2019-12-01T00:00:00Z