ORCID Profile
0000-0003-1666-9377
Current Organisation
Murdoch University
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Biochemistry and Cell Biology | Medical Biochemistry and Metabolomics not elsewhere classified | Geochemistry | Medical Physiology | Genetics | Biologically Active Molecules | Chemical Characterisation of Materials | Physical Chemistry (Incl. Structural) | Systems Physiology | Structural Chemistry and Spectroscopy | Signal Transduction | Systems Biology | Organic Geochemistry | Isotope Geochemistry | Microbial Ecology | Plant Developmental and Reproductive Biology | Proteomics and Intermolecular Interactions (excl. Medical Proteomics) | Genomics | Functional Materials | Fish Physiology and Genetics | Crop and Pasture Biochemistry and Physiology | Cell Development, Proliferation and Death
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences | Expanding Knowledge in the Chemical Sciences | Plant Production and Plant Primary Products not elsewhere classified | Clinical Health (Organs, Diseases and Abnormal Conditions) not elsewhere classified | Mineral Exploration not elsewhere classified | Biofuel (Biomass) Energy | Oil and Gas Exploration | Solid Oxide Fuel Cells | Winter Grains and Oilseeds not elsewhere classified | Expanding Knowledge in Engineering | Environment not elsewhere classified | Expanding Knowledge in the Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences |
Related Links
Publications
Ozone Efficiency on Two Coleopteran Insect Pests and Its Effect on Quality and Germination of Barley
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-03-2022
Abstract: Ozone (O3) is a potential fumigant to control pests in stored grain since it can safely and rapidly auto-decompose without leaving residues. In this study, the efficacy of O3 on all life stages of Rhyzopertha dominica (Fabricius) and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) in barley and the physiological effects on barley and its quality were investigated. Complete control of all life stages of pests was obtained at 700 ppm for 1440 min of ozone exposure without negatively impacting the contents of soluble protein, moisture content, seed colour, hardness, and the weight of thousand barley seeds. The eggs and pupae of these two insects were the more tolerant stages than their larvae and adults. Prolonged exposure times (40 to 1440 min) and mortality assessment intervals (1, 2, and 7 days) increased O3 efficacy due to the reaction characteristics and delayed toxicity. Aging barley seeds appeared to be more sensitive to prolonged ozone duration than new seeds. A total of 20 and 40 min could promote germination rate, and longer O3 exposure (1440 min) was unfavourable for germination and seedling growth. Thus, it is imperative to select an optimal O3 exposure time to transfer ozone into quality contributors of final products and achieve the desired functional outcomes.
Metabolomic Profiling of Faecal Extracts from Cryptosporidium parvum Infection in Experimental Mouse Models
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 18-10-2013
Assessment of automated trimethylsilyl derivatization protocols for GC–MS-based untargeted metabolomic analysis of urine
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-09-2015
A review and recommendations for the integration of forensic expertise within police cold case reviews
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 24-12-2019
Abstract: Cold case review teams and the processes that they adopt in their endeavour to solve historic crimes are varied and largely underreported. Of the limited literature surrounding the topic of cold case reviews, the focus is on clearance rates and the selection of cases for review. While multiple reports and reviews have been undertaken and recommend that the interface between investigators and forensic scientists be improved, there is little evidence of cold case teams comprised of a mixture of investigators and scientists or experts. With the growing reliance on forensic science as an aide to solvability, the authors propose that the inclusion of forensic scientists to the central cold case investigation may be a critical factor in future success. The paper aims to discuss this issue. To support the proposed approach, the authors conducted a review of the current literature seeking insight into the reported make-up of cold case teams. In conjunction with this, the authors reviewed a number of commissioned reports intended to improve cold case reviews and forensic services. While many of the reviewed reports and recommendations suggested better integration with scientists and external expertise, little evidence of this in practice was reported within published literature. Open dialogue and cross pollination between police investigators and forensic scientists are likely to mitigate biases, inform case file triage and better equip investigations with contemporary and cutting-edge scientific solutions to the evidence analysis for cold cases. Furthermore, with respect to scientists within academia, large pools of resources by way of student interns or researchers may be available to assist resource-sparse policing jurisdictions. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first peer-reviewed recommendation for the consideration of integrated forensic scientists within a cold case review team. Multiple reports suggest the need for closer ties, but it is the anecdotal experience of the authors that the benefits of a blended task force approach may yield greater success.
Burkholderia sprentiae sp. nov., isolated from Lebeckia ambigua root nodules
Publisher: Microbiology Society
Date: 11-2013
Abstract: Seven Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped bacteria were isolated from Lebeckia ambigua root nodules and authenticated on this host. Based on the 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, they were shown to belong to the genus Burkholderia , with the representative strain WSM5005 T being most closely related to Burkholderia tuberum (98.08 % sequence similarity). Additionally, these strains formed a distinct group in phylogenetic trees based on the housekeeping genes gyrB and recA . Chemotaxonomic data including fatty acid profiles and analysis of respiratory quinones supported the assignment of the strains to the genus Burkholderia . Results of DNA–DNA hybridizations, and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of our strains from the closest species of the genus Burkholderia with a validly published name. Therefore, these strains represent a novel species for which the name Burkholderia sprentiae sp. nov. (type strain WSM5005 T = LMG 27175 T = HAMBI 3357 T ) is proposed.
Characterizing the plasma metabolome during and following a maximal exercise cycling test.
Publisher: American Physiological Society
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1152/JAPPLPHYSIOL.00499.2018
Abstract: Although complex in nature, a number of metabolites have been implicated in the onset of exercise-induced fatigue. The purpose of this study was to identify changes in the plasma metabolome and specifically, to identify candidate metabolites associated with the onset of fatigue during prolonged cycling. Eighteen healthy and recreationally active men (mean ± SD age: 24.7 ± 4.8 yr mass 67.1 ± 6.1 kg body mass index: 22.8 ± 2.2 peak oxygen uptake: 40.9 ± 6.1 ml·kg −1 ·min −1 ) were recruited to this study. Participants performed a prolonged cycling time-to-exhaustion (TTE) test at an intensity corresponding to a fixed blood lactate concentration (3 mmol/l). Plasma s les collected at 10 min of exercise, before fatigue (last s le before fatigue min before fatigue), immediately after fatigue (point of exhaustion), and 20 min after fatigue were assessed using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approach. Eighty metabolites were putatively identified, with 68 metabolites demonstrating a significant change during the cycling task (duration: ~80.9 ± 13.6 min). A clear multivariate structure in the data was revealed, with the first principal component (36% total variance) describing a continuous increase in metabolite concentration throughout the TTE trial and recovery, whereas the second principal component (14% total variance) showed an increase in metabolite concentration followed by a recovery trajectory, peaking at the point of fatigue. Six clusters of correlated metabolites demonstrating unique metabolite trajectories were identified, including significant separation in the metabolome between prefatigue and postfatigue time points. In accordance with our hypothesis, free-fatty acids and tryptophan contributed to differences in the plasma metabolome at fatigue. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Metabolites have long been implicated in the onset of fatigue. This study applied a metabolomic approach to track 80 plasma-borne metabolites during a cycle to fatigue task. Of these, 68 metabolites demonstrated significant change, with the plasma metabolome at fatigue being clearly distinguishable from other time points. Six unique clusters of metabolites were identified, and free fatty acids were strongly associated with fatigue onset therein lending support to the central fatigue hypothesis.
The influence of blood removal on pacing during a 4-minute cycling time trial
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 09-2017
Abstract: To examine the influence of manipulating aerobic contribution after whole-blood removal on pacing patterns, performance, and energy contribution during self-paced middle-distance cycling. Seven male cyclists (33 ± 8 y) completed an incremental cycling test followed 20 min later by a 4-min self-paced cycling time trial (4MMP) on 6 separate occasions over 42 d. The initial 2 sessions acted as familiarization and baseline testing, after which 470 mL of blood was removed, with the remaining sessions performed 24 h, 7 d, 21 d, and 42 d after blood removal. During all 4MMP trials, power output, oxygen uptake, and aerobic and anaerobic contribution to power were determined. 4MMP average power output significantly decreased by 7% ± 6%, 6% ± 8%, and 4% ± 6% at 24 h, 7 d, and 21 d after blood removal, respectively. Compared with baseline, aerobic contribution during the 4MMP was significantly reduced by 5% ± 4%, 4% ± 5%, and 4% ± 10% at 24 h, 7 d, and 21 d, respectively. The rate of decline in power output on commencement of the 4MMP was significantly attenuated and was 76% ± 20%, 72% ± 24%, and 75% ± 35% lower than baseline at 24 h, 21 d, and 42 d, respectively. Removal of 470 mL of blood reduces aerobic energy contribution, alters pacing patterns, and decreases performance during self-paced cycling. These findings indicate the importance of aerobic energy distribution during self-paced middle-distance events.
Comparative susceptibility ofSalmonellaTyphimurium biofilms of different ages to disinfectants
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-09-2010
DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2010.527959
Abstract: There is a general consensus that with increasing age a biofilm shows increased resistance to antimicrobials. In this study the susceptibility of 3-, 5- and 7-day-old Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium biofilms to disinfectants was evaluated. It was hypothesized that 7-day-old biofilms would be more resistant to disinfectants compared to 3- and 5-day-old biofilms. Biofilms were formed using the MBEC™ system and treated with six chemical disinfectants for 1 and 5 min. Four disinfectants at the highest concentration available showed 100% reduction in viable cells from all ages of biofilms after exposure for 5 min, and ethanol at 70% v/v was the least effective against biofilms, followed by chlorhexidine gluconate (CG). At the recommended user concentrations, only sodium hypochlorite showed 100% reduction in viable cells from all ages of biofilms. Benzalkonium chloride and CG were the least effective against biofilms, followed by quaternary ammonium compound which only showed 100% reduction in viable cells from 5-day-old biofilms. Overall, the results from this study do not display enhanced resistance in 7-day-old biofilms compared to 3- and 5-day-old biofilms. It is concluded that under the conditions of this study, the age of biofilm did not contribute to resistance towards disinfectants. Rather, the concentration of disinfectant and an increased contact time were both shown to play a role in successful sanitization.
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolite Profiling of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Differentiates between Biofilm and Planktonic Phenotypes
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 15-04-2015
DOI: 10.1128/AEM.03658-14
Abstract: The aim of this study was to utilize gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to compare and identify patterns of biochemical change between Salmonella cells grown in planktonic and biofilm phases and Salmonella biofilms of different ages. Our results showed a clear separation between planktonic and biofilm modes of growth. The majority of metabolites contributing to variance between planktonic and biofilm supernatants were identified as amino acids, including alanine, glutamic acid, glycine, and ornithine. Metabolites contributing to variance in intracellular profiles were identified as succinic acid, putrescine, pyroglutamic acid, and N -acetylglutamic acid. Principal-component analysis revealed no significant differences between the various ages of intracellular profiles, which would otherwise allow differentiation of biofilm cells on the basis of age. A shifting pattern across the score plot was illustrated when analyzing extracellular metabolites s led from different days of biofilm growth, and amino acids were again identified as the metabolites contributing most to variance. An understanding of biofilm-specific metabolic responses to perturbations, especially antibiotics, can lead to the identification of novel drug targets and potential therapies for combating biofilm-associated diseases. We concluded that under the conditions of this study, GC-MS can be successfully applied as a high-throughput technique for “bottom-up” metabolomic biofilm research.
Repetitive low intensity magnetic field stimulation in a neuronal cell line: a metabolomics study
Publisher: PeerJ
Date: 12-03-2018
DOI: 10.7717/PEERJ.4501
Abstract: Low intensity repetitive magnetic stimulation of neural tissue modulates neuronal excitability and has promising therapeutic potential in the treatment of neurological disorders. However, the underpinning cellular and biochemical mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigates the behavioural effects of low intensity repetitive magnetic stimulation (LI-rMS) at a cellular and biochemical level. We delivered LI-rMS (10 mT) at 1 Hz and 10 Hz to B50 rat neuroblastoma cells in vitro for 10 minutes and measured levels of selected metabolites immediately after stimulation. LI-rMS at both frequencies depleted selected tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle metabolites without affecting the main energy supplies. Furthermore, LI-rMS effects were frequency-specific with 1 Hz stimulation having stronger effects than 10 Hz. The observed depletion of metabolites suggested that higher spontaneous activity may have led to an increase in GABA release. Although the absence of organised neural circuits and other cellular contributors (e.g., excitatory neurons and glia) in the B50 cell line limits the degree to which our results can be extrapolated to the human brain, the changes we describe provide novel insights into how LI-rMS modulates neural tissue.
Tea-Soybean Intercropping Improves Tea Quality and Nutrition Uptake by Inducing Changes of Rhizosphere Bacterial Communities
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-10-2022
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS10112149
Abstract: The positive aspects of the tea plant/legume intercropping system draw attention to the Chinese tea industry for its benefit for soil fertility improvement with low fertilizer input. However, limited information exists as to the roles of intercropped legumes in the rhizosphere microbiome and tea quality. Hereby, soybean was selected as the intercropped plant to investigate its effect on bacterial communities, nutrient competition, tea plant development, and tea quality. Our data showed that intercropped soybean boosted the uptake of nitrogen in tea plants and enhanced the growth of young tea shoots. Nutrient competition for phosphorus and potassium in soil existed between soybeans and tea plants. Moreover, tea/soybean intercropping improved tea quality, manifested by a significantly increased content of non-ester type catechins (C, EGC, EC), total catechins and theanine, and decreased content of ester type catechins (EGCG). Significant differences in rhizobacterial composition were also observed under different systems. At the genus level, the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Bradyrhizobium, Saccharimonadales and Mycobacterium, was significantly increased with the intercropping system, while the relative abundance of denitrifying bacteria, Pseudogulbenkiania, was markedly decreased. Correlation analysis showed that Pseudogulbenkiania, SBR1031, and Burkholderiaceae clustered together showing a similar correlation with soil physicochemical and tea quality characteristics however, other differential bacteria showed the opposite pattern. In conclusion, tea/soybean intercropping improves tea quality and nutrition uptake by increasing the relative abundance of beneficial rhizosphere bacteria and decreasing denitrifying bacteria. This study strengthens our understanding of how intercropping system regulate the soil bacterial community to maintain the health of soils in tea plantations and provides the basis for replacing chemical fertilizers and improving the ecosystem in tea plantations.
Combined DNA, toxicological and heavy metal analyses provides an auditing toolkit to improve pharmacovigilance of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-12-2015
DOI: 10.1038/SREP17475
Abstract: Globally, there has been an increase in the use of herbal remedies including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). There is a perception that products are natural, safe and effectively regulated, however, regulatory agencies are h ered by a lack of a toolkit to audit ingredient lists, adulterants and constituent active compounds. Here, for the first time, a multidisciplinary approach to assessing the molecular content of 26 TCMs is described. Next generation DNA sequencing is combined with toxicological and heavy metal screening by separation techniques and mass spectrometry (MS) to provide a comprehensive audit. Genetic analysis revealed that 50% of s les contained DNA of undeclared plant or animal taxa, including an endangered species of Panthera (snow leopard). In 50% of the TCMs, an undeclared pharmaceutical agent was detected including warfarin, dexamethasone, diclofenac, cyproheptadine and paracetamol. Mass spectrometry revealed heavy metals including arsenic, lead and cadmium, one with a level of arsenic times the acceptable limit. The study showed 92% of the TCMs examined were found to have some form of contamination and/or substitution. This study demonstrates that a combination of molecular methodologies can provide an effective means by which to audit complementary and alternative medicines.
Curcumin and major depression: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the potential of peripheral biomarkers to predict treatment response and antidepressant mechanisms of
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURONEURO.2014.11.015
Abstract: A recent randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study conducted by our research group, provided partial support for the efficacy of supplementation with a patented curcumin extract (500 mg, twice daily) for 8 weeks in reducing depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder. In the present paper, a secondary, exploratory analysis of salivary, urinary and blood biomarkers collected during this study was conducted to identify potential antidepressant mechanisms of action of curcumin. Pre and post-intervention s les were provided by 50 participants diagnosed with major depressive disorder, and the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology self-rated version (IDS-SR30) was used as the primary depression outcome measure. Compared to placebo, 8 weeks of curcumin supplementation was associated with elevations in urinary thromboxane B2 (p<0.05), and substance P (p<0.001) while placebo supplementation was associated with reductions in aldosterone (p<0.05) and cortisol (p<0.05). Higher baseline plasma endothelin-1 (rs=-0.587 p<0.01) and leptin (rs=-0.470 p<0.05) in curcumin-treated in iduals was associated with greater reductions in IDS-SR30 score after 8 weeks of treatment. Our findings demonstrate that curcumin supplementation influences several biomarkers that may be associated with its antidepressant mechanisms of action. Plasma concentrations of leptin and endothelin-1 seem to have particular relevance to treatment outcome. Further investigations using larger s les sizes are required to elucidate these findings, as the multiple statistical comparisons completed in this study increased the risk of type I errors.
Exploring the Application of the DSA-TOF, a Direct, High-resolution Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Technique for the Screening of Potential Adulterated and Contaminated Herbal Medicines
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 17-06-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S13361-019-02256-W
Abstract: Global consumption of complementary and alternative medicines, including herbal medicines, has increased substantially, and recent reports of adulteration demonstrate the need for high throughput and extensive pharmacovigilance to ensure product safety and quality. Three different standard reference materials and five previously analyzed herbal medicines have been used as a proof of concept for the application of adulteration/contamination screening using a Direct S le Analysis (DSA) ion source with TOF MS on the Perkin Elmer AxION 2 TOF. This technique offers the advantages of minimum s le preparation, rapid analysis, and mass accuracies of 5 ppm. The DSA TOF analysis correlates well with the previous analysis on the initial s le set (which found undeclared herbal ingredients), with the added advantage of detecting previously untargeted compounds, including species-specific flavonoids and alkaloids. The rapid analysis using the DSA-TOF facilitates screening for hundreds of compounds in minutes with minimal s le preparation, generating a comprehensive profile for each s le. Graphical Abstract.
What risks do herbal products pose to the Australian community?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.5694/MJA16.00614
Abstract: Traditional herbal products are widely used in Australia to treat a broad range of conditions and diseases. It is popularly believed that these products are safer than prescribed drugs. While many may be safe, it is worrying that the specific effects and harmful interactions of a number of their components with prescription medications is not well understood. Some traditional herbal preparations contain heavy metals and toxic chemicals, as well as naturally occurring organic toxins. The effects of these substances can be dire, including acute hepatic and renal failure, exacerbation of pre-existing conditions and diseases, and even death. The content and quality of herbal preparations are not tightly controlled, with some ingredients either not listed or their concentrations recorded inaccurately on websites or labels. Herbal products may also include illegal ingredients, such as ephedra, Asarum europaeum (European wild ginger) and endangered animal species (eg, snow leopard). An additional problem is augmentation with prescription medications to enhance the apparent effectiveness of a preparation. Toxic substances may also be deliberately or inadvertently added: less expensive, more harmful plants may be substituted for more expensive ingredients, and processing may not be adequate. The lack of regulation and monitoring of traditional herbal preparations in Australia and other Western countries means that their contribution to illness and death is unknown. We need to raise awareness of these problems with health care practitioners and with the general public.
Topical prazosin attenuates sensitivity to tactile stimuli in patients with complex regional pain syndrome
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-11-2015
DOI: 10.1002/EJP.817
Abstract: The sympathetic nervous system may play an important role in certain forms of chronic pain. The main aim of this study was to determine whether functional blockade of α1 -adrenoceptors would alter sensitivity to cutaneous stimulation in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In an initial study, high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry of intradermal interstitial fluid collected from the forearms of three healthy in iduals established that the α1 -adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin penetrated the skin barrier when mixed in Lipoderm(®) cream base. Next, we found that application of this cream to the forearm of 10 healthy participants attenuated axon reflex vasodilatation to the iontophoresis of phenylephrine, demonstrating functional blockade of α1 -adrenoceptors. Subsequently, effects of the cream on sensitivity to mechanical and thermal stimulation were investigated in 14 healthy participants and 19 patients with CRPS (eight with an apparent adrenergic component of pain). Both in patients and controls, topical application of the prazosin cream increased sensitivity to skin cooling but reduced sensations evoked by gentle brushing. In addition, hyperalgesia to sharp stimulation was lower at the prazosin- than vehicle-treated site in the CRPS-affected limb, and allodynia to brushing was lower at the prazosin-treated than vehicle-treated site in patients with an adrenergic component of pain. Prazosin cream inhibited adrenergic axon reflex vasodilatation in healthy volunteers, and also inhibited dynamic allodynia and punctate hyperalgesia in the CRPS-affected limb of some patients. Further studies are required to assess the potential benefits of topically applied prazosin for CRPS.
Non-severe burns induce a prolonged systemic metabolic phenotype indicative of a persistent inflammatory response post-injury
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 28-04-2023
DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.24.537960
Abstract: Globally, burns are a significant cause of injury that can cause substantial acute trauma as well as lead to increased incidence of chronic co-morbidity and disease. To date, research has primarily focused on the systemic response to severe injury, with little in the literature reported on impact of non-severe injuries ( % total burn surface area TBSA). To elucidate the metabolic consequences of non-severe burn injury, longitudinal plasma was collected from adults (n=35) who presented at hospital with a non-severe burn injury at admission, and at 6 week follow up. A cross-sectional baseline s le was also collected from non-burn control participants (n=14). S les underwent multiplatform metabolic phenotyping using 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to quantify 112 lipoprotein and glycoproteins signatures and 852 lipid species from across 20 subclasses. Multivariate data modelling (Orthogonal projection to latent structures-discriminate analysis) revealed alterations in lipoprotein and lipid metabolism when comparing baseline control to hospital admission s les, with the phenotypic signature found to be sustained at follow up. Univariate (Mann-Whitney U) testing and OPLS-DA indicated specific increases in GlycB (p-value .0e -4 ), low density lipoprotein-2 subfractions (Variable importance in projection score VIP .83e -1 ) and monoacyglyceride (20:4)(p-value .0e -4 ) and decreases in circulating anti-inflammatory high-density lipoprotein-4 subfractions (VIP .75e -1 ), phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylglycerols, phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylserines. The results indicate a persistent systemic metabolic phenotype that occurs even in cases of non-severe burn injury. The phenotype is indicative of an acute inflammatory profile which continues to be sustained post-injury, suggesting an impact on systems health beyond the site of injury. The phenotypes contained metabolic signatures consistent with chronic inflammatory states reported to have elevated incidence post-burn injury. Such phenotypic signatures may provide patient stratification opportunities, to identify in idual responses to injury, personalise intervention strategies and improve acute care, reducing risk of chronic co-morbidity.
Metabolomics Approaches for the Diagnosis and Understanding of Kidney Diseases
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-02-2019
Abstract: Diseases of the kidney are difficult to diagnose and treat. This review summarises the definition, cause, epidemiology and treatment of some of these diseases including chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, acute kidney injury, kidney cancer, kidney transplantation and polycystic kidney diseases. Numerous studies have adopted a metabolomics approach to uncover new small molecule biomarkers of kidney diseases to improve specificity and sensitivity of diagnosis and to uncover biochemical mechanisms that may elucidate the cause and progression of these diseases. This work includes a description of mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approaches, including some of the currently available tools, and emphasises findings from metabolomics studies of kidney diseases. We have included a varied selection of studies (disease, model, s le number, analytical platform) and focused on metabolites which were commonly reported as discriminating features between kidney disease and a control. These metabolites are likely to be robust indicators of kidney disease processes, and therefore potential biomarkers, warranting further investigation.
Examination of the temporal variation of peptide content in decomposition fluid under controlled conditions using pigs as human substitutes
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2019.02.048
Abstract: We report the preliminary observations of the peptide content of decomposition fluid produced under controlled laboratory conditions and in the absence of a soil matrix. Four domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) cadavers were used to model human decomposition over a four-week trial period physical characteristics were recorded and the peptide components of decomposition fluid was analysed using high performance liquid chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry. Preliminary data analysis indicated that a range of peptides were consistently detected across the course of the trial period and 27 of these were common to all four cadavers 22 originating from haemoglobin. The peptides associated with haemoglobin subunit alpha and beta displayed a breakdown pattern that remained consistent for all cadavers for the duration of the trial. Though identification of peptides during decomposition has potential for estimating the time since death, quantification of selected peptides is likely to be essential to identify time-dependent trends.
The potential of metabolomic analysis techniques for the characterisation of α1-adrenergic receptors in cultured N1E-115 mouse neuroblastoma cells
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-09-2015
Characterizing the plasma metabolome during 14 days of live-high, train-low simulated altitude: A metabolomic approach.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1113/EP087159
Intraperitoneal medetomidine: A novel analgesic strategy for postoperative pain management in pregnant sheep
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2013
Abstract: The absorption of medetomidine released by continuous infusion from an osmotic pump in the abdominal cavity was studied in pregnant sheep during the 24 h postoperative period. Additionally pain and sedation was assessed. Eleven sheep were studied: six were treated with a medetomidine loaded osmotic pump delivering 10 μL/h (3 μg/kg/h medetomidine) and five with a saline loaded osmotic pump (control). Serial blood s les were taken and analysed to determine plasma medetomidine levels. Medetomidine was absorbed from the peritoneal cavity and a steady plasma concentration was achieved within 10 h, mean (SD) peak concentration was 2.87 (0.22) ng/mL. Sheep receiving medetomidine analgesia had significantly lower pain scores at 10 h than controls. Four control sheep required rescue analgesia, compared with 0 in the treatment group. Delivery of 3 μg/kg/h medetomidine by an intraperitoneal osmotic pump to pregnant sheep in the 24 h postoperative period provides adequate plasma concentrations of medetomidine for analgesia without sedation.
Microalgae: A potential sustainable commercial source of sterols
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2020
What risks do herbal products pose to the Australian community?
Publisher: AMPCo
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.5694/MJA17.00163
The Effect of Ozone Treatment on Metabolite Profile of Germinating Barley
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 21-04-2022
Abstract: Ozone is widely used to control pests in grain and impacts seed germination, a crucial stage in crop establishment which involves metabolic alterations. In this study, dormancy was overcome through after-ripening (AR) in dry barley seed storage of more than 4 weeks alternatively, a 15-min ozone treatment could break the dormancy of barley immediately after harvest, with accelerated germination efficiency remaining around 96% until 4 weeks. Headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and liquid absorption coupled with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were utilized for metabolite profiling of 2-, 4- and 7-day germinating seeds. Metabolic changes during barley germination are reflected by time-dependent characteristics. Alcohols, fatty acids, and ketones were major contributors to time-driven changes during germination. In addition, greater fatty acids were released at the early germination stage when subjected to ozone treatment.
Hybrid organic/inorganic hybrid surface technology for increasing the performance of LC/MS(MS)-based drug metabolite identification studies: Application to gefitinib and metabolites in mouse plasma an
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2021
Experimental design and reporting standards for metabolomics studies of mammalian cell lines
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00018-017-2582-1
Abstract: Metabolomics is an analytical technique that investigates the small biochemical molecules present within a biological s le isolated from a plant, animal, or cultured cells. It can be an extremely powerful tool in elucidating the specific metabolic changes within a biological system in response to an environmental challenge such as disease, infection, drugs, or toxins. A historically difficult step in the metabolomics pipeline is in data interpretation to a meaningful biological context, for such high-variability biological s les and in untargeted metabolomics studies that are hypothesis-generating by design. One way to achieve stronger biological context of metabolomic data is via the use of cultured cell models, particularly for mammalian biological systems. The benefits of in vitro metabolomics include a much greater control of external variables and no ethical concerns. The current concerns are with inconsistencies in experimental procedures and level of reporting standards between different studies. This review discusses some of these discrepancies between recent studies, such as metabolite extraction and data normalisation. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of a standardised experimental approach to any cultured cell metabolomics study and suggests an ex le procedure fully inclusive of information that should be disclosed in regard to the cell type/s used and their culture conditions. Metabolomics of cultured cells has the potential to uncover previously unknown information about cell biology, functions and response mechanisms, and so the accurate biological interpretation of the data produced and its ability to be compared to other studies should be considered vitally important.
Toxicological screening and DNA sequencing detects contamination and adulteration in regulated herbal medicines and supplements for diet, weight loss and cardiovascular health
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPBA.2019.112834
Abstract: Use of herbal medicines and supplements by consumers to prevent or treat disease, particularly chronic conditions continues to grow, leading to increased awareness of the minimal regulation standards in many countries. Fraudulent, adulterated and contaminated herbal and traditional medicines and dietary supplements are a risk to consumer health, with adverse effects and events including overdose, drug-herb interactions and hospitalisation. The scope of the risk has been difficult to determine, prompting calls for new approaches, such as the combination of DNA metabarcoding and mass spectrometry used in this study. Here we show that nearly 50% of products tested had contamination issues, in terms of DNA, chemical composition or both. Two s les were clear cases of pharmaceutical adulteration, including a combination of paracetamol and chlorpheniramine in one product and trace amounts of buclizine, a drug no longer in use in Australia, in another. Other issues include the undeclared presence of stimulants such as caffeine, synephrine or ephedrine. DNA data highlighted potential allergy concerns (nuts, wheat), presence of potential toxins (Neem oil) and animal ingredients (reindeer, frog, shrew), and possible substitution of bird cartilage in place of shark. Only 21% of the tested products were able to have at least one ingredient corroborated by DNA sequencing. This study demonstrates that, despite current monitoring approaches, contaminated and adulterated products are still reaching the consumer. We suggest that a better solution is stronger pre-market evaluation, using techniques such as that outlined in this study.
The impact of environmental factors on the production of peptides in mammalian decomposition fluid in relation to the estimation of post-mortem interval: A summer/winter comparison in Western Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2019.109957
Abstract: We report the peptide content of decomposition fluid produced under field-based conditions and in the absence of a soil matrix. Sixteen domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) cadavers were used to model human decomposition in trials conducted in the summer and winter months in Western Australia. Physical characteristics were recorded and the peptide components of decomposition fluid were analysed using high performance liquid chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry. A range of peptides was consistently detected in both summer and winter. Thirty seven peptides were common to both trials 22 originating from haemoglobin subunit beta, 1 from haemoglobin subunit alpha, 4 from beta-enolase, and 2 from creatine kinase. In agreement with our previous findings, 13 peptides occurred consistently, regardless of trial conditions. Degradation patterns for haemoglobin subunits alpha and beta in summer and winter were similar when expressed in ADD and when adjusted for differences in temperature. The consistent identification of several protein-specific peptides generated during decomposition trials conducted under different temperature and rainfall regimes suggests that quantitative peptide analysis may be useful in estimating time since death.
Development of an untargeted metabolomics method for the analysis of human faecal samples using Cryptosporidium-infected samples
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.MOLBIOPARA.2012.08.006
Abstract: Faecal metabolite profiling, though in its infancy, allows for investigation of complex metabolic interactions between gastrointestinal infections or diseases and host health. In the present study, we describe a faecal metabolite extraction method for untargeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis using Cryptosporidium positive and negative human faecal s les. The extraction method takes into account the varying faecal consistencies and quantities received for clinical diagnosis. Optimisation was carried out using different extraction solvents and on three different faecal quantities to determine the minimum amount of faecal s le required. The method was validated by untargeted GC-MS analysis on 8 Cryptosporidium positive and 8 Cryptosporidium negative human faecal s les, extracted using the optimised conditions. The method showed good extraction reproducibility with a relative standard deviation of 9.14%. Multivariate analysis of the GC-MS generated dataset showed distinct differences between profiles of Cryptosporidium positive and Cryptosporidium negative s les. The most notable differences included changes in amino acid, nitrogen and energy metabolism, demonstrating the association of infection with Cryptosporidium and altered permeability of the small intestine.
Branched-chain amino acid supplementation improves cycling performance in untrained cyclists
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2021
Combined Liquid Chromatography-mass Spectrometry and Next-generation DNA Sequencing Detection of Adulterants and Contaminants in Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Herbal Medicines
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-11-2019
A review of the biochemical products produced during mammalian decomposition with the purpose of determining the post-mortem interval
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 18-03-2020
Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis of Rat Neuroblastoma Cells as a Model System to Study the Biochemical Effects of the Acute Administration of Methamphetamine
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-06-2018
Transplacental transfer of medetomidine and ketamine in pregnant ewes
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2012
Abstract: The extent of placental transfer of medetomidine and ketamine is unknown in pregnant ewes. Date-mated singleton ( n = 8) and twin ( n = 8) pregnant merino cross ewes were anaesthetized for Caesarean delivery of preterm lamb fetuses. A combination of medetomidine (20 μg/kg) and ketamine (10 mg/kg) was administered by intravenous injection and surgery performed immediately thereafter. Blood s les were collected from the ewe at one, five and 10 min after intravenous injection and from the umbilical vein of the fetus at delivery. Non-pregnant ewes were also anaesthetized ( n = 8). There was no difference in the plasma concentration of medetomidine or ketamine when comparing singleton and twin ewes or pregnant and non-pregnant ewes for the short duration of the study. Fetal plasma concentrations of each drug were comparable to the maternal concentrations at the same time. We conclude that both drugs cross the placenta readily and provide anaesthesia and analgesia for the fetus when it is delivered.
The application of metabolomics for herbal medicine pharmacovigilance: a case study on ginseng
Publisher: Portland Press Ltd.
Date: 15-12-2016
DOI: 10.1042/EBC20160030
Abstract: Herbal medicines are growing in popularity, use and commercial value however, there remain problems with the quality and consequently safety of these products. Adulterated, contaminated and fraudulent products are often found on the market, a risk compounded by the fact that these products are available to consumers with little or no medical advice. Current regulations and quality control methods are lacking in their ability to combat these serious problems. Metabolomics is a biochemical profiling tool that may help address these issues if applied to quality control of both raw ingredients and final products. Using the ex le of the popular herbal medicine, ginseng, this essay offers an overview of the potential use of metabolomics for quality control in herbal medicines and also highlights where more research is needed.
Clinical prediction of wound re-epithelisation outcomes in non-severe burn injury using the plasma lipidome
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 30-07-2023
DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.28.550938
Abstract: Impaired wound healing in burn injuries can lead to complications such as skin graft loss, infection, and increased risk of scarring, which impacts long-term patient outcomes and quality of life. While wound repair in severe burns has received substantial research attention, poor wound outcomes in cases of non- severe burns (classified as % of the total body surface area (TBSA)) remain relatively understudied despite also having considerable physiological impact and constituting the majority of hospital admissions for burns. Predicting outcomes in the early stages of healing would decrease financial and patient burden, and aid in preventing long-term complications from poor wound healing. Lipids have been implicated in inflammation and tissue repair processes and may play essential roles in burn wound healing. Longitudinal plasma s les were collected from patients (n=20) with non-severe ( % TBSA) flame or scald burns over a 6-week period including timepoints pre- and post-surgical intervention. S les were analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to detect 850 lipid species and 112 lipoproteins. Statistical analyses, including orthogonal projection to latent structures-discriminant analysis was performed to identify changes associated with either re-epithelialisation or delayed wound re-epithelisation. The results demonstrated that the plasma lipid and lipoprotein profiles at admission could predict wound re-epithelisation outcomes at two weeks post-surgery, and that these discriminatory profiles were maintained over a 6-week period. Triacylglycerides, diacylglycerides (DAG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) subfractions were associated with delayed wound closure, with DAG(18:2_18:3) and LDL/High density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio having the most influence (p-value 0.02, Cliff’s delta 0.7), while HDL subfractions, phosphatidylinositols, phosphatidylcholines (PC), and phosphatidylserines were associated with re-epithelisation at two weeks post-surgery, with PC(16:0_18:1) and HDL-2 apolipoprotein-A1 showing the greatest influence on the model (p-value 0.01, Cliff’s delta -0.7). We demonstrate clinical prediction of wound re-epithelisation in non-severe burn patients using lipid and lipoprotein profiling. Further validation of the models will potentially lead to personalised intervention strategies to enhance injury outcomes, reducing the risk of chronic complications post-burn injury. Demonstration of wound healing prediction from time of hospital admission for non-severe burns. Plasma lipid and lipoprotein profiles within 48 hours of admission to hospital with non-severe burn injury are distinctly different between patients whose wounds re-epithelialized within two weeks and those with delayed re-epithelisation. Patients with delayed wound re-epithelisation have a persistent lipid and lipoprotein signature from burns admission up to six weeks post-injury.
Development of a non-targeted metabolomics method to investigate urine in a rat model of polycystic kidney disease.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-01-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1440-1797.2011.01532.X
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to use metabolomics to investigate the cystic phenotype in the Lewis polycystic kidney rat. Spot urine s les were collected from four male Lewis control and five male Lewis polycystic kidney rats aged 5 weeks, before kidney function was significantly impaired. Metabolites were extracted from urine and analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Principal component analysis was used to determine key metabolites contributing to the variance observed between s le groups. With the development of a metabolomics method to analyse Lewis and Lewis polycystic kidney rat urine, 2-ketoglutaric acid, allantoin, uric acid and hippuric acid were identified as potential biomarkers of cystic disease in the rat model. The findings of this study demonstrate the potential of metabolomics to further investigate kidney disease.
Sample Preparation and Reporting Standards for Metabolomics of Adherent Mammalian Cells
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9236-2_1
Abstract: Metabolomics is an analytical technique that investigates the small molecules present within a biological system. Metabolomics of cultured cells allows profiling of the metabolic chemicals involved in a cell type-specific system and the response of that metabolome to external challenges, such as change in environment or exposure to drugs or toxins. The numerous benefits of in vitro metabolomics include a much greater control of external variables and reduced ethical concerns. There is potential for metabolomics of mammalian cells to uncover new information on mechanisms of action for drugs or toxins or to provide a more sensitive, human-specific early risk assessment in drug development or toxicology investigations. One way to achieve stronger biological outcomes from metabolomic data is via the use of these mammalian cultured cell models, particularly in a high-throughput context. With the sensitivity and quantity of data that metabolomics is able to provide, it is important to ensure that the s ling techniques have minimal interference when it comes to interpretation of any observed shifts in the metabolite profile. Here we describe a s ling procedure designed to ensure that the effects seen in metabolomic analyses are explained fully by the experimental factor and not other routine culture-specific activities.
Untargeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis of kidney and liver tissue from the Lewis Polycystic Kidney rat.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCHROMB.2019.04.021
Abstract: Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) encompasses a spectrum of inherited disorders that lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). There is no cure for PKD and current treatment options are limited to renal replacement therapy and transplantation. A better understanding of the pathobiology of PKD is needed for the development of new, less invasive treatments. The Lewis Polycystic Kidney (LPK) rat phenotype has been characterized and classified as a model of nephronophthisis (NPHP9, caused by mutation of the Nek8 gene) for which polycystic kidneys are one of the main pathologic features. The aim of this study was to use a GC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics approach to determine key biochemical changes in kidney and liver tissue of the LPK rat. Tissues from 16-week old LPK (n = 10) and Lewis age- and sex-matched control animals (n = 11) were used. Principal component analysis (PCA) distinguished signal corrected metabolite profiles from Lewis and LPK rats for kidney (PC-1 77%) and liver (PC-1 46%) tissue. There were marked differences in the metabolite profiles of the kidney tissues with 122 deconvoluted features significantly different between the LPK and Lewis strains. The metabolite profiles were less marked between strains for liver s les with 30 features significantly different. Five biochemical pathways showed three or more significantly altered metabolites: transcription/translation, arginine and proline metabolism, alpha-linolenic and linoleic acid metabolism, the citric acid cycle, and the urea cycle. The results of this study validate and complement the current literature and are consistent with the understood pathobiology of PKD.
Development of a rapid profiling method for the analysis of polar analytes in urine using HILIC–MS and ion mobility enabled HILIC–MS
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-01-2019
Metabolite profiling identifies the mycotoxin alternariol in the pathogen Stagonospora nodorum
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-03-2009
Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for the simultaneous quantitative analysis of ketamine and medetomidine in ovine plasma
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-03-2011
DOI: 10.1002/BMC.1613
Abstract: Ketamine and medetomidine are commonly combined to sedate or anaesthetize a wide range of animal species. Despite this, there are few methods for the simultaneous quantitative analysis of the two drugs. This study describes the use of solid-phase extraction s le preparation followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the quantitative analysis of both drugs in ovine plasma. Extraction recovery was 93% for ketamine and 95% for medetomidine. The lowest limit of detection for ketamine was 1 ng/mL and for medetomidine 2 ng/mL, with linearity greater than 0.99 for both. Intra-day and inter-day precisions for both drugs were less than 10 and 7%, respectively. Application of the method to s les obtained from pregnant ewes and their fetuses showed placental transfer of the drugs over time such that there was no significant difference in plasma concentration at delivery. In summary, a validated method has been developed for the simultaneous quantification of ketamine and medetomidine in ovine plasma s les which can be used to study the pharmacokinetics of these drugs.
Pharmacokinetics and safety of deferasirox in subjects with chronic kidney disease undergoing haemodialysis.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-02-2013
DOI: 10.1111/NEP.12035
Abstract: Treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) includes parenteral iron therapy, and these infusions can lead to iron overload. Secondary iron overload is typically treated with iron chelators, of which deferasirox is one of the most promising. However, it has not been studied in patients with CKD and iron overload. A pilot study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of deferasirox in eight haemodialysis-dependent patients, who were receiving intravenous iron for treatment of anaemia of CKD. Deferasirox was administered at two doses (10 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg), either acute (once daily for 2 days) or steady-state (once daily for 2 weeks). A dose of 10 mg/kg in either protocol was not sufficient to achieve a plasma concentration in the therapeutic range (acute peak 14.1 and steady-state 22.8 μmol/L), while 15 mg/kg in either protocol maintained plasma concentration well above this range (acute peak 216 and steady-state 171 μmol/L). Plasma concentration observed at 15 mg/kg was well above that expected for this dose (40-50 μmol/L), although no adverse clinical events were observed. This study highlights the need to profile drugs such as deferasirox in specific patient groups, such as those with CKD and iron overload.
Untargeted metabolomics of neuronal cell culture: A model system for the toxicity testing of insecticide chemical exposure
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-07-2017
DOI: 10.1002/JAT.3498
Abstract: Toxicity testing is essential for the protection of human health from exposure to toxic environmental chemicals. As traditional toxicity testing is carried out using animal models, mammalian cell culture models are becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to animal testing. Combining the use of mammalian cell culture models with screening-style molecular profiling technologies, such as metabolomics, can uncover previously unknown biochemical bases of toxicity. We have used a mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics approach to characterize for the first time the changes in the metabolome of the B50 cell line, an immortalised rat neuronal cell line, following acute exposure to two known neurotoxic chemicals that are common environmental contaminants the pyrethroid insecticide permethrin and the organophosphate insecticide malathion. B50 cells were exposed to either the dosing vehicle (methanol) or an acute dose of either permethrin or malathion for 6 and 24 hours. Intracellular metabolites were profiled by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Using principal components analysis, we selected the key metabolites whose abundance was altered by chemical exposure. By considering the major fold changes in abundance (>2.0 or <0.5 from control) across these metabolites, we were able to elucidate important cellular events associated with toxic exposure including disrupted energy metabolism and attempted protective mechanisms from excitotoxicity. Our findings illustrate the ability of mammalian cell culture metabolomics to detect finer metabolic effects of acute exposure to known toxic chemicals, and validate the need for further development of this process in the application of trace-level dose and chronic toxicity studies, and toxicity testing of unknown chemicals.
Uric acid deposits in symbiotic marine algae
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-01-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-3040.2008.01909.X
Abstract: The symbiosis between cnidarians and dinoflagellate algae is not understood at the cell or molecular level, yet this relationship is responsible for the formation of thousands of square kilometres of coral reefs. We have investigated the nature of crystalline material prominent within marine algal symbionts of Aiptasia sp. anemones. This material, which has historically been considered to be calcium oxalate, is shown to be uric acid. We demonstrate that these abundant uric acid stores can be mobilized rapidly, thereby allowing the algal symbionts to flourish in an otherwise N-poor environment. This is the first report of uric acid accumulation by symbiotic marine algae. These data provide new insight and considerations for understanding the physiological basis of algal symbioses, and represent a new and previously unconsidered aspect of N metabolism in cnidarian, and a variety of other, marine symbioses.
A review of peripheral biomarkers in major depression: The potential of inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PNPBP.2013.09.017
Abstract: Biomarkers are regularly used in medicine to provide objective indicators of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes or pharmacological responses to therapeutic interventions, and have proved invaluable in expanding our understanding and treatment of medical diseases. In the field of psychiatry, assessment and treatment has, however, primarily relied on patient interviews and questionnaires for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Biomarkers in psychiatry present a promising addition to advance the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of psychiatric diseases. This review provides a summary on the potential of peripheral biomarkers in major depression with a specific emphasis on those related to inflammatory/immune and oxidative stress/antioxidant defences. The complexities associated with biomarker assessment are reviewed specifically around their collection, analysis and interpretation. Focus is placed on the potential of peripheral biomarkers to aid diagnosis, predict treatment response, enhance treatment-matching, and prevent the onset or relapse of major depression.
Adulterants and Contaminants in Psychotropic Herbal Medicines Detected with Mass Spectrometry and Next-Generation DNA Sequencing
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-11-2018
Peptide analysis of mammalian decomposition fluid in relation to the post-mortem interval
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Role of neuregulin‐1β in dexamethasone‐enhanced surfactant synthesis in fetal type II cells
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-02-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FEBSLET.2014.01.057
Abstract: It is well established that glucocorticoids elevate the production of fibroblast-pneumocyte factor (FPF), which induces type II cells to synthesize surfactant phospholipids. FPF, however, has not been identified and it is not clear whether it is a single factor or a complex mixture of factors. In this study it has been shown that, when lung fibroblasts are exposed to dexamethasone, the concentration of neuregulin-1β (NRG1β) in conditioned medium is elevated 2-fold (P<0.05), even though NRG1β gene expression is unaffected. This, together with the finding that exposure of type II cells to NRG1β directly stimulates by 3-fold the rate of phospholipid synthesis (P<0.05), suggests that NRG1β is a component of FPF that promotes lung development.
Influence of glucocorticoids, neuregulin-1β, and sex on surfactant phospholipid secretion from type II cells
Publisher: American Physiological Society
Date: 02-2014
DOI: 10.1152/AJPLUNG.00297.2013
Abstract: Glucocorticoids induce lung fibroblasts to produce fibroblast-pneumocyte factor, a peptide that stimulates type II cells to synthesize pulmonary surfactant. This effect is known to be more apparent in cells derived from female fetuses, a characteristic that has been attributed to sex-linked differences in the fibroblasts. In the current study, it has been shown that dexamethasone enhances both β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) activity (1.3- to 1.6-fold increase) and (−)-isoproterenol-induced secretion of surfactant (1.8- to 1.9-fold increase) in type II cells. However, fibroblast-conditioned media (FCM), prepared in the presence of dexamethasone, generates a much greater response to (−)-isoproterenol (3.1- to 3.8-fold increase). Furthermore, each of these effects is more pronounced if both cell types are female-derived. It is hypothesized that the enhanced response to glucocorticoids is the result of a synergistic effect between the steroid and a component of FCM. Neuregulin-1β (NRG1β), which is elevated in FCM generated in the presence of dexamethasone, influences not only the rate of surfactant secretion and the β-AR activity in type II cells, but also enhances in both sexes the cellular response to (−)-isoproterenol. These results suggest that NRG1β might be more effective than glucocorticoids in treating prematurely born male infants, which are known to respond poorly to glucocorticoids. Given that glucocorticoids are known to induce higher levels of β-AR mRNA, the effect of NRG1β, alone and in combination with dexamethasone, on β-AR gene expression was measured using qRT-PCR. Whereas NRG1β had no effect alone, in combination with dexamethasone it produced up to a 4.2-fold elevation in the level of β-AR mRNA.
The bioavailability of medetomidine in eight sheep following oesophageal administration
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.RVSC.2015.09.014
Abstract: There is sound evidence that medetomidine is an effective analgesic for acute pain in sheep. In this study, 15 μg kg(-1) of medetomidine was administered intravenously, and into the oesophagus, in a cross-over study, using eight sheep. Following intravenous administration, medetomidine could be detected in the plasma of these sheep for 120-180 min but following oesophageal administration, medetomidine could not be detected in the plasma of any sheep at any of 17 time points over four days. It is suspected that this is due to high first pass metabolism in the liver. Consequently, we conclude that future studies investigating the use of analgesics in orally-administered osmotic pumps in sheep should consider higher doses of medetomidine (e.g. >100 μg kg(-1)), further investigations into the barriers of medetomidine bioavailability from the sheep gut, liver-bypass drug delivery systems, or other α2-adrenergic agonists (e.g. clonidine or xylazine).
Curcumin for the treatment of major depression: A randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2014.06.001
Abstract: Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid derived from the spice turmeric, influences several biological mechanisms associated with major depression, namely those associated with monoaminergic activity, immune-inflammatory and oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways, hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and neuroprogression. We hypothesised that curcumin would be effective for the treatment of depressive symptoms in in iduals with major depressive disorder. In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 56 in iduals with major depressive disorder were treated with curcumin (500 mg twice daily) or placebo for 8 weeks. The primary measure was the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology self-rated version (IDS-SR30). Secondary outcomes included IDS-SR30 factor scores and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). From baseline to week 4, both curcumin and placebo were associated with improvements in IDS-SR30 total score and most secondary outcome measures. From weeks 4 to 8, curcumin was significantly more effective than placebo in improving several mood-related symptoms, demonstrated by a significant group x time interaction for IDS-SR30 total score (F1, 53=4.22, p=.045) and IDS-SR30 mood score (F1, 53=6.51, p=.014), and a non-significant trend for STAI trait score (F1, 48=2.86, p=.097). Greater efficacy from curcumin treatment was identified in a subgroup of in iduals with atypical depression. Partial support is provided for the antidepressant effects of curcumin in people with major depressive disorder, evidenced by benefits occurring 4 to 8 weeks after treatment. Investigations with larger s le sizes, over extended treatment periods, and with varying curcumin dosages are required.
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