Futuristic Biotechnology

The Role of PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathway in Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Therapeutic Targets and Resistance Mechanisms

2025-08-18T11:01:57+00:00

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are an insignificant, however enormous population of tumor cells that display capacities of self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor initiation, consequently being the core feature in cancer progression, recurrence, and drug resistance. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) is one of the most critical signalling cascades regulating CSCs and controlling their stemness, survival, evasion of the immune system under stressful conditions, as well as metabolic reprogramming. This review provides an overview of the morphological features and functional aspects of the PI3K/AKT immune cascade and pathway, and how it essentially connects with both upstream and downstream effectors in CSC biology. The cross-communication of PI3K/AKT with other pathways, e.g., Wnt, Notch, and Hedgehog, is elaborated to emphasize the redundancy of the networks facilitating CSC maintenance and drug resistance. Additionally, we provide an in-depth scrutiny of the processes through which PI3K/AKT signalling leads to CSC resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy, as well as their plasticity, metastasis, and immune escape mechanisms. Current and future therapeutic approaches targeting the PI3K/AKT axis, such as small molecule inhibitors, combination therapy, and drug delivery nanotechnology, are also discussed. Finally, we present clinical issues and prospects for improving CSC-based therapy by using PI3K/AKT blockade to eliminate resistance and induce protracted, long-lasting cancer remission.

Algae, Third-Generation Energy Source: A Comprehensive Review on Methods from Cultivation to Biodiesel Production

2025-08-21T07:33:23+00:00

An increase in population growth has elevated the energy demand, and diminished fossil fuel sources. Their combustion releases carbon dioxide and contributes to environmental pollution. This has initiated intensive research to find alternative sources for economic and environmental sustainability. Amongst all, biodiesel originating from oil crops is a biodegradable, environment-friendly substitute and has properties similar to fossil diesel. Algal sources are promising substrates that require only sunlight and water for oil production. They could fulfil global demand, reduce the use of petroleum-based diesel and have higher oil productivity than other oil-yielding crops. Therefore, the third-generation production of biodiesel through microalgae is the renewable choice to overcome the energy crisis. This review covers algal cultivation methods, including both open and closed systems, lipid-extracting techniques for taking out algal oil or lipids from microalgae, and biodiesel production by the transesterification process. This article aims to assist in selecting appropriate cultivation and extraction methods for biodiesel generation.

Biofilm-Associated Infections on Biomedical Implants and Control Measures

2025-09-26T06:26:35+00:00

Biofilms are bacterial colonies that adhere to surfaces, forming protective barriers against immune responses and antibiotics, which contribute to the development of chronic infections, particularly in medical implants. This study aims to investigate the factors that influence biofilm formation on medical implants and evaluate current strategies for preventing biofilm-related infections. A review of the literature on biofilm formation mechanisms, including quorum sensing and recalcitrance, was conducted, focusing on intrinsic (e.g., quorum-sensing molecules, c-di-GMP) and extrinsic factors (e.g., temperature, surface properties). Biofilm-related infections are common in medical devices, complicating treatment and contributing to increased mortality. New strategies, including antimicrobial peptides, quorum-sensing inhibitors, and nanotechnology-based approaches, show promise in preventing biofilm formation. Surface modifications, such as antibiotic-loaded and nano-silver coatings, significantly reduce bacterial adhesion. Despite progress in biofilm prevention, further research is necessary to refine strategies for controlling implant-related infections and improving patient outcomes.

Next-Generation CRISPR Biotechnology for Pakistan: AI-Driven, Climate-Resilient Super Crops and the Future of Food Security

2025-09-26T07:36:53+00:00

Climate change poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s agriculture, with projections indicating 10–25% yield losses in staple crops by 2050. Frequent floods, prolonged droughts, and pest infestations have already reduced wheat and rice production by up to 30%, exposing the limitations of traditional breeding and genetically modified crops. CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, when combined with artificial intelligence (AI), offers a faster and more precise route to developing climate-resilient varieties suited to Pakistan’s diverse agroecosystems. A review of recent studies highlights key advances, including AI-assisted sgRNA design, which enhances editing efficiency by 30–50%, and CRISPR-modified wheat and rice lines that show 20–30% improved stress tolerance. Yet, barriers such as complex polyploid genomes, limited genomic resources, and outdated biosafety policies hinder progress. Addressing these challenges through policy reform, capacity-building, and technology integration could transform Pakistan’s agriculture, aligning directly with Sustainable Development Goals on Zero Hunger and Climate Action.

Therapeutic Interventional Probiotic Approach and the Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Associated Uremia

2025-10-07T04:42:40+00:00

Chronic kidney disease is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by progressive renal malfunction triggered by low Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with increased morbidity and associated mortality. Intestinal microbiota dysbiosis has recently emerged as an important player in progressing chronic renal disease complications by increasing uremic toxins. Recently, the interest in developing new research initiatives focusing on therapeutic modulation of the intestinal microbiome through a probiotics approach, preserving kidney functionality by maintaining the physiological balance of intestinal microbiota, decreasing uremic toxins production, and improving the kidney-gut axis functionality has been considered as a comprehensive therapeutic approach in controlling and managing chronic kidney disease and associated complications within vitro or in vivo trial analysis. This review shed light on highlighting and exploring chronic kidney disease symptomatic triggers, uremic toxins generation and utilization of strain specified probiotic therapeutically approach exploring its significant efficiency through a wide range of randomized controlled trial analysis within chronic kidney disease patients (CKD) on HD and PD therapy which significantly reported low inflammatory biomarkers and improved dysregulated intestinal microbiota, increased uremic toxin excretion (IS and PCS), improved homeostatic regulatory mechanism and quantifies health furthermore delaying the progression towards kidney failure emerging probiotic approach as a new therapeutically CKD management tool.

Molecular-Based Investigation of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus from Bovine Mastitis in Kasur

2025-09-29T07:07:49+00:00

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant threat to the dairy industry through mastitis, causing substantial economic losses. MRSA is a zoonotic pathogen that transmits between livestock and humans through direct contact, contaminated environments, or animal products. Its prevalence is further exacerbated by inadequate research and the misuse of antibiotics. Objectives: To find molecular-based investigation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from bovine mastitis in Kasur. Methods: This study characterized MRSA isolates from bovine mastitis using biochemical tests and genotypic analysis of the Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec (SCCmec), which carries the mecA gene that makes the bacteria resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. SCCmec typing distinguishes hospital-associated (HA-), community-associated (CA-), and livestock-associated (LA-) MRSA strains, the latter (notably CC398) exhibiting rising zoonotic concern. Results: Among 100 mastitic milk samples, 85% (85/100) carried mecA, confirming MRSA. Alarmingly, 78% (78/100) co-harbored the Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) gene, a key virulence determinant linked to severe infections in humans. Conclusions: The high co-occurrence of mecA (mediating multidrug resistance) and PVL (enhancing pathogenicity) in LA-MRSA isolates underscores a critical one health challenge, necessitating urgent interventions in antibiotic resistance and farm hygiene to mitigate transmission risks.

Hospital-Associated Synanthropic Insects as Carriers of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Evidence from Lahore, Pakistan

2025-10-09T08:52:30+00:00

The issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is significant in the world, and one of the most important types of pathogens that transmit both nosocomial and community infections is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Objectives: To determine the existence of antibiotic-resistant Gram-positive bacteria in hospital-related insects, to describe the resistance mechanisms and biofilm-forming capabilities of the bacteria. Methods: Two hundred houseflies were taken from one hospital, which was a tertiary care hospital in Lahore. The isolates of S. aureus were determined by mannitol fermentation, Gram stain, and standard biochemical assays. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method of performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted as per CLSI (2023) guidelines. A microtiter plate assay was used to determine biofilm formation. PCR detection of the mecA and mecC genes was done by extracting their genomic DNA. The agar well diffusion assay was employed to determine the activity of FGE as a single entity and in conjunction with the 3-lactam antibiotics. Results: Sixteen S. aureus isolates (8% of the flies) were recovered. All isolates were methicillin-resistant and carried the mecA gene, while the mecC gene was absent. Resistance was universal to oxacillin (100%) and nitrofurantoin (100%), and was high against erythromycin (87.5%) and rifampicin (75%). Most isolates (62.5%) were strong biofilm producers. Conclusions: Hospital-associated houseflies can serve as reservoirs and potential vectors for multidrug-resistant, biofilm-forming MRSA. The synergy observed between FGE and β-lactam antibiotics highlights the potential of plant-derived adjuncts in addressing resistant infections.

Awareness and Public Perception of Dyslexia in Urban Pakistan: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

2025-10-04T09:51:39+00:00

Dyslexia is a neurocognitive disorder of an individual of fluent reading, writing, and memorize difficult spellings or words. Objective: To critically evaluate the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) along with awareness of learning disability (Dyslexia) disorder in urban Pakistan. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted by the Sindh Biotechnologist Association (SBA) in collaboration with a tertiary care hospital of Gomal Medical College, MTI, D.I. Khan, Pakistan. A total of 270 participants were enrolled using a convenience sampling technique. KAP of the general audience regarding Dyslexia was conducted by using an e-survey (i.e., Google document). SPSS Version 25.0 was used to analyze and correlate the data, where p<0.05 was considered a statistically significant response. Results: Out of 270 respondents, a majority of respondents (i.e., 57.8%, f=156) did not even know the signs and symptoms of dyslexia. While 37.8% participants were still in the denial mode about their closed ones’ Dyslexia. Moreover, 94.8% (f=256) believed that this survey helped them to know more about Dyslexia. The study found a strong correlation between respondents' knowledge and practices about dyslexia, with positive awareness being 6.25 times more likely to engage in positive dyslexia-related behaviours. Conclusions: Dyslexia significantly impacts individuals' performance in routine jobs, including reading, numeracy, memory, and verbal communication. It also affects record keeping, case load management, and medicine administration. Peer support plays a significant role in receiving support, but fear of retaliation may limit public understanding.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Nigella sativa Seeds and Apple Peel Extracts and Their Antimicrobial Activity Against Escherichia coli

2025-10-07T11:39:56+00:00

In nanotechnology, synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with plant-based extracts has emerged as an eco-friendly and sustainable method. Objectives: To focus on the green synthesis and characterization of AgNPs using extracts from Nigella sativa seeds (black seed) and Malus domestica (apple) peels, both rich in bioactive phytochemicals that serve as natural reducing and stabilizing agents. Methods: The synthesis process was verified by UV-Vis spectroscopy using typical surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peaks (~410 nm), which means that the AgNPs were formed successfully. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis was used to determine the hydrodynamic size (117 nm) and uniformity of the AgNPs, and the zeta potential analysis showed the low negative surface charges because of capping using plant biomolecules. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized AgNPs was tested against Escherichia coli, a common pathogenic bacterium. Results: Results showed significant antibacterial effects, with a zone of inhibition of 27 mm. The previously stated mechanisms, such as ROS generation and apoptosis-like responses, were removed, as they were not experimentally verified. The use of N. sativa and apple peel extracts provided a cost-effective and environmentally benign synthesis route, enhancing nanoparticle stability and bioactivity. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents specifically against E. coli, without extending claims to untested biomedical or environmental applications.

Emerging Concerns of Foodborne Pathogens

2025-10-02T07:37:19+00:00

Foodborne pathogens remain a serious concern for public health, as they can cause severe diseases and economic losses worldwide. Studies have shown that microorganisms such as Salmonella, Cronobacter and Escherichia coli are frequently present in various food sources, including cereals, cereal products, poultry, herbs, and spices. According to WHO, the incidence of Salmonella in Pakistan is reported to be the highest in the world, 412 cases out of 100,000 cases per annum [1]. Contamination in these foods highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to prevent infections [2,3].

Cronobacter spp., for instance, are important foodborne pathogens that can cause meningitis, sepsis, and necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates. Analysis of diverse food products has revealed that cereals and cereal products have the highest prevalence of Cronobacter, whereas commercial powdered infant formula, infant food formula, vegetables, and fruits may show lower rates of contamination. Molecular methods, including 16S rDNA sequencing and PCR-RFLP, can be used to identify isolates accurately, and Cronobacter sakazakii is frequently the dominant isolate. The susceptibility testing of antimicrobials reveals that the majority of the strains are still susceptible to the widely used antibiotics, though some resistance has been reported against some antibiotics like ampicillin [4,5].

Similarly, E. coli is a commensal bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract of poultry, yet pathogenic serotypes may be the cause of colibacillosis, a systemic infection with significant economic consequences. Research in poultry farms has shown that E. coli isolates are widely resistant to different drugs. High resistance rates to tetracycline, rifampicin, and oxytetracycline have been reported, and isolates often show resistance to multiple antibiotics used in poultry production. The development of antimicrobial-resistant strains is associated with the massive usage of antibiotics in the form of feed additives, growth promotion, and disease prevention. This resistance can be transferred to the human pathogens, posing a threat to the population health [5].

Salmonella is one of the prominent food-borne pathogens which often contaminate poultry and meat products, eggs and other food products of animal origin. It causes various diseases with such mild cases as gastroenteritis and severe diseases like typhoid fever and bacteremia. Research has revealed that infections of Salmonella are widespread in such countries as Pakistan where it is one of the highest rates in the world. Surveillance and hygiene Surveillance and hygiene practices are important in the management of Salmonella outbreaks and food safety [6].

The importance of food hygiene, controlled use of antimicrobial agents, and frequent monitoring is emphasized by foodborne pathogens and antimicrobial resistant strains. Modern molecular techniques are helping in more precise and quicker identification, which assists in carrying out epidemiological studies and prevention of risks. Contamination patterns and resistance profiles are vital issues in the prevention of foodborne outbreaks and spread of resistant strains. Food safety is a microbiological, public health, and agricultural cross over that is taken seriously. The need to carry on research, monitoring and responsible practices is necessary to minimize the risks, safeguard human health and deliver safe food products across the globe.