Research Article
Safety Evaluation of Recombinant Bovine Lactoferrin as a Novel Biomaterial
Jiamiao Sun,
Sumin Zhang,
Yong Wang,
Jinchi Wei,
Yonghui Teng,
Binghua Quan,
Xiaoming Pang,
Honghong Deng,
Chiming Wei*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 1, March 2024
Pages:
1-8
Received:
1 February 2024
Accepted:
20 February 2024
Published:
7 March 2024
Abstract: This study introduces the physical principles and safety evaluation of recombinant bovine lactoferrin (fusion factor) as an innovative biomaterial. Fusion factor is a recombinant lactoferrin expressed by fusing lactoferrin, which has natural biological defense function, with other peptide segments through sequence optimization. It is named fusion factor. Its molecular weight is about 36kDa, which is much greater than the 1kDa molecular weight limit of macromolecular transdermal absorption, so it is not absorbed when used externally on the epithelial mucosa. The lactoferrin based biological defense functional peptide segment in the fusion factor can neutralize the virus by binding to viral protein nucleic acid through the physical action of charge adsorption, and can also compete with cell receptors to inhibit virus infection in cells. The molar ratio of the transmembrane peptide (Pep-1) fragment to the carrier protein is 1:1, so only the transport protein is anchored to the cell surface, forming a physical isolation protein protective wall against viruses and bacteria, without penetrating the cell or damaging the cell membrane. The fusion factor and its derived vaginal bacteria blocking gel have no significant toxicity, sensitization, anaphylaxis or delayed hypersensitivity in vitro cell experiments, in vivo animal experiments and clinical observation tests, and have no side effects with highly safety.
Abstract: This study introduces the physical principles and safety evaluation of recombinant bovine lactoferrin (fusion factor) as an innovative biomaterial. Fusion factor is a recombinant lactoferrin expressed by fusing lactoferrin, which has natural biological defense function, with other peptide segments through sequence optimization. It is named fusion f...
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Review Article
Harnessing Probiotics to Combat Aflatoxin: A Natural Approach to Food Safety: A Review
Kebede Dida Ariti*
,
Belay Roba Tadesse
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 1, March 2024
Pages:
9-17
Received:
30 October 2024
Accepted:
14 November 2024
Published:
3 December 2024
Abstract: Aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced primarily by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are among the most significant food safety challenges worldwide. These compounds are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) due to their association with liver cancer, immune suppression, and acute toxicity. Aflatoxin contamination commonly affects staple food items such as grains, nuts, and seeds, particularly in regions with warm and humid climates. The economic burden of aflatoxin contamination extends to reduced agricultural productivity and trade restrictions, necessitating innovative and effective mitigation strategies. This review investigates the potential of probiotics as a natural solution to counter aflatoxin contamination. Probiotics, including strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, offer several mechanisms for reducing aflatoxin toxicity. These include bioadsorption, where probiotics bind aflatoxins and limit their bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract; biotransformation, involving the enzymatic conversion of aflatoxins into less toxic metabolites; and competitive exclusion, which inhibits the growth of aflatoxin-producing molds. Additionally, probiotics contribute to immune modulation, enhancing the host's capacity to counteract aflatoxin exposure. Applications of probiotics in food systems and animal feed are promising. For instance, integrating probiotics into fermented foods has been shown to reduce aflatoxin concentrations significantly. Similarly, probiotics in livestock feed can decrease the absorption of aflatoxins, improving animal health and the safety of derived products. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including strain-specific efficacy, regulatory hurdles, and consumer acceptance of probiotic-enhanced food products. Future research should prioritize the development of innovative probiotic applications, such as bioencapsulation technologies to enhance stability and targeted delivery systems for maximizing their efficacy. Long-term clinical studies are needed to assess the sustainability and safety of probiotic interventions for aflatoxin detoxification. By addressing these challenges, probiotics could play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health, ensuring food safety, and enhancing the resilience of food systems globally.
Abstract: Aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced primarily by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are among the most significant food safety challenges worldwide. These compounds are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) due to their association with liver cancer, immune suppression,...
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