Study on plant latex: a rich source of proteases for disease defense.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A study on plant latex, a rich source of proteases and cutting edge for disease invasion
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

India, recognized as one of the twelve mega biodiversity centers globally, boasts over 45,000 plant species and a rich ethnobotanical heritage. This extensive diversity positions India as a pivotal source for new drug development, especially in managing complex diseases leveraging its traditional medicinal systems like Siddha, Ayurveda, and Unani. Among various plant parts, latex has emerged as a notable focus due to its rich composition of proteases and proteins, which can be harnessed for therapeutic applications. This study evaluates the proteolytic activities of plant latex, particularly highlighting findings from Vallaris solanacea, signifying its potential in drug discovery.

Proteases in Plant Latex

Proteases, also known as peptide hydrolases, are crucial enzymes involved in protein degradation through peptide bond hydrolysis. They are classified into various groups based on their catalytic mechanisms: serine, cysteine, aspartic, and metallo-proteases. The study reveals that plant latex serves as an abundant source of these enzymes, particularly cysteine proteases, which are found in various plant families like Asteraceae, Caricaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. The research highlights the contribution of these proteases in diverse biological processes, emphasizing their economic importance, with an estimated global market value of about $3 billion.

Screening and Identification of Proteases

The study screened around 70 different plant latex samples, identifying 61 plants with detectable proteolytic activity. Among those, a range of proteases was detected, predominantly cysteine proteases, followed by serine and aspartate proteases. The method employed for enzyme activity assessment involved the Kunitz method, determining the proteolytic activity towards casein. Notably, within the identified plant sources, Vallaris solanacea was selected for further exploration due to its high protein concentration and previously undocumented proteolytic activity, marking it as a promising candidate for deeper investigations into its enzymatic properties.

Applications and Industrial Significance of Cysteine Proteases

Plant-derived cysteine proteases have been associated with various industrial applications, including in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Their stability and efficacy across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels make them valuable for numerous processes, such as enzyme activity in detergents and leather processing, and as potential therapeutic agents in treating diseases, including cancer. The research underscores the practical significance of these proteases, highlighting the therapeutic versatility of Vallaris solanacea, which showcases both anticancer properties and contributions to phytoremediation efforts.

Conclusion

The research identifies and characterizes a novel protease from Vallaris solanacea, confirming its classification as a cysteine protease, which holds significant potential for pharmaceutical applications. The findings reflect the importance of preserving and exploring the biodiversity of medicinal plants, advocating for continued research into their therapeutic prospects. Vallaris solanacea, with its rich composition and valuable bioactivities, emerges not only as a promising source for drug development but also reinforces the necessity of exploring the untapped herbal resources for innovative pharmaceutical solutions.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Dr. Silpa Somavarapu, Prof. I. Bhaskar Reddy and M. Prasad Naidu


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A study on plant latex, a rich source of proteases and cutting edge for disease invasion

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research


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FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of plant latex in medicine?

Plant latex is a rich source of proteases and other bioactive compounds, used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including cancer, inflammation, and infections.

What are cysteine proteases and their applications?

Cysteine proteases, found in many plants, are enzymes with broad industrial applications, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, and as antitumor agents due to their ability to function under diverse conditions.

Which plants were studied for proteolytic activity in this research?

The study screened 70 plant lattices, with 61 showing proteolytic activity, notably from families such as Asteraceae, Caricaceae, Moraceae, and Euphorbiaceae.

What method was used for protease activity measurement?

Protease activity was measured using casein as a substrate, with specific assays including the Kunitz method and protein determination by the Lowry method.

What is unique about Vallaris solanacea?

Vallaris solanacea exhibits high proteolytic activity, easy availability, and is used traditionally for skin infections and as a potential source for new drug development.

How can proteases from plants impact industries?

Proteases from plants can improve various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and environmentally friendly alternatives in textile and leather processing, contributing to sustainable practices.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Study on plant latex: a rich source of proteases for disease defense.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Activity:
The term 'Activity' is vital in biological and biochemical contexts, referring to the functionality of enzymes, such as proteases from plant latex, in catalyzing reactions. In this study, the activity of proteases involves their capability to cleave peptide bonds, which is essential for various applications including pharmaceuticals and food industries.

2) Vallari (Vallarī):
Vallaris, particularly Vallaris solanacea in this context, is significant as it is a specific plant species explored for its potential therapeutic proteases. This study underscores its unique biological properties and the possibility of harnessing its components for developing new drugs, bringing attention to its ecological and medicinal importance.

3) India:
India, recognized for its vast biodiversity, boasts an extensive array of plant species with medicinal properties. The country's rich ethnobotanical knowledge grounded in traditional practices like Ayurveda and Siddha plays a crucial role in developing novel therapeutics, making it a central figure in the search for new drugs from plant sources.

4) Cancer:
Cancer is a significant focus in modern medicine and pharmacology due to its complexity and prevalence. The study highlights the potential of plant-derived proteases, such as those from Vallaris solanacea, in developing new treatments for cancer, especially through compounds that can interfere with tumor growth and promote healing.

5) Animal:
In biological research, the term 'animal' pertains to a kingdom of organisms that are often used to compare physiological, biochemical, and therapeutic studies with those in plants. This study connects animal healthcare with plant-derived compounds, emphasizing the relevance of botanical explorations for treating diseases in both humans and animals.

6) Food:
Food-related applications of plant proteases presented in this study indicate the industrial importance of these enzymes. Proteases enhance processes in food production, such as in brewing and cheese-making. Their functionalities not only improve food quality but also contribute to nutritional values, showcasing their versatility in the food industry.

7) Rich (Ṛch):
The adjective 'rich' in this context relates to the abundance of medicinal plant species in India and specifically refers to the high concentration of proteins and proteases in plant latex. This richness is pivotal for discovering new therapeutic agents, supporting the idea that biodiversity is key for pharmaceutical advancements.

8) Drug:
The word 'drug' signifies therapeutic agents developed or extracted from various biological sources. This study aims to identify potent proteases from plant latex to contribute to drug discovery, particularly for managing challenging diseases, illustrating how traditional knowledge meets modern pharmacology in drug development processes.

9) Disease:
In the context of this study, 'disease' refers to any pathological condition that can be treated with medicinal compounds derived from plants. The research focuses on understanding how proteases can be utilized in therapeutic applications, effectively addressing different diseases and highlighting the importance of plant-based medicine.

10) Anana (Ānana, Ānanā, Ananā, Anaṇa, Āṅana):
While not extensively detailed in the text, 'Anana' refers to pineapple (Ananas comosus), which is a source of bromelain, a plant protease. Including such plants supports the exploration of proteolytic enzymes in therapeutic applications, showing the diversified uses of plant enzymes in enhancing health and wellness.

11) Family:
The term 'family' is significant in botanical taxonomy, where it classifies plants sharing common characteristics. Identifying plant families such as Asteraceae and Euphorbiaceae informs researchers about potential candidates for drug discovery and highlights the evolutionary relationships that optimize understanding of their biochemistry and therapeutic applications.

12) Silver:
Silver refers to the metal that is recovered from photographic films through enzymatic hydrolysis. The study discusses innovative methods for recycling materials, indicating the broader applications of plant proteases that extend beyond traditional uses, showing ecological awareness in industrial processes and waste management.

13) Water:
Water is critical for biological processes. In this study, enzymes are isolated from plant latex using chilled distilled water, suggesting that water plays a key role in the extraction and functional studies of plant-based enzymes, impacting their activity and effectiveness in various applications.

14) Table:
The term 'table' refers to an organized presentation of data in the study. Tables summarize the screening results of plant latex for proteolytic activities, providing clarity to the findings and facilitating comparisons among different plant families, supporting a systematic approach to research and data analysis.

15) Silk:
In the context of the study, 'silk' pertains to the fibers extracted from silkworm cocoons that must be degummed to remove sericin protein. The research explores alternative, environmentally friendly methods using proteases, showcasing the diverse applications of plant-derived enzymes across various industries, including textiles.

16) Nerium indicum:
Nerium indicum is mentioned as one of the plant species screened for proteolytic activity. Its inclusion highlights the diversity of plant sources that can yield therapeutic enzymes, emphasizing the potential of even common plants in providing novel insights for drug development and their applications in pharmacology.

17) Ficus benghalensis:
Ficus benghalensis, or the banyan tree, is noted for its significance in traditional medicine. Its mention in the study underscores the importance of plant biodiversity and the potential for discovering therapeutic agents within common regional plants, contributing to the holistic understanding of medicinal resources.

18) Ficus religiosa:
Ficus religiosa, the sacred fig tree, is recognized for its historical and cultural relevance in India. The choice of this plant in the research emphasizes the traditional uses of plant species in medicine, linking ancient practices with modern research endeavors aimed at drug discovery from natural sources.

19) Pharmacological:
The term 'pharmacological' relates to the study of drug actions and their effects on living organisms. This research directly contributes to pharmacology by identifying and elucidating the functional properties of plant proteases, paving the way for future studies focused on treatment applications in various health sectors.

20) Discussion:
The 'Discussion' section of the study articulates interpretations of findings, implications of research, and potential future directions. This crucial part allows researchers to contextualize their results within the broader scientific landscape, fostering a collaborative approach to understanding plant-derived proteases in drug development.

21) Evolution:
The term 'evolution' covers the historical development of proteases in plants, indicating their adaptation and diversification over time. This concept is relevant to understanding how proteases have evolved to serve various ecological functions, impacting their potential applications in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management.

22) Pesticide:
Pesticides relate to compounds used to control pests, and plant latex is highlighted for containing bioactive constituents with potential agricultural applications. The study thus indicates the dual potential of plant proteases in both therapeutic endeavors and pest management, illustrating the practical benefits of biodiversity.

23) Narayana (Nārāyaṇa, Nārāyana, Narāyana, Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana Medical College, mentioned as an institution involved in the study, represents collaboration between educational entities and research in biochemistry. This connection enhances the knowledge base and resources available for studying plant-based therapeutic compounds, contributing to advancements in both academic and practical applications.

24) Seedling:
The term 'seedling' refers to young plants, signifying the vitality and regenerative potential inherent in plant biology. This concept connects back to the study, emphasizing the continuous exploration of plants, even at early growth stages, for their biochemical properties and contributions to therapeutic applications.

25) Cutting:
In the context of botanical studies, 'cutting' indicates the method by which plant latex is collected. This technique is critical for obtaining fresh material necessary for isolating active compounds, thus ensuring the study's focus on the enzymatic properties of the identified plants.

26) Species:
The term 'species' is fundamental in biological classification and is directly related to identifying the specific plants studied for proteases. Recognizing diverse species allows researchers to target particular plants which may yield valuable insights into enzymatic functions and therapeutic potential.

27) Gelatin:
Gelatin is referenced as a compound from which silver can be recovered in photographic processes. This mention illustrates the practical relevance of proteases in environmental recycling contexts, indicating broader implications for enzymatic applications that extend beyond traditional therapeutic uses.

28) Glass:
Glass containers are used for collecting and storing fresh latex in the study. This material is essential for conducting experiments safely and minimizing contamination, ensuring the integrity of the biological samples collected for protease activity assessment.

29) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' encompasses the investigative approaches taken to understand the characteristics and potentials of plant latex concerning proteases. The research outcomes contribute to the scientific community's understanding of biodiversity and its applications in health and industry, supporting ongoing explorations of plant resources.

30) Milk:
In the context of proteases, 'milk' signifies the dairy industry's connection to these enzymes, as proteases are crucial in processes like cheese production. This relationship emphasizes the broad food industry applications of plant proteases, thus reinforcing the importance of natural enzymes in food processing.

31) Animal disease:
The term 'animal disease' pertains to pathological conditions affecting non-human organisms. It highlights the importance of plant-based medicinal compounds not only for human health but also in veterinary medicine, indicating the potential for dual applications of therapeutic discoveries from plants.

32) Phytoremediation:
Phytoremediation is the process by which plants are used to improve contaminated environments. The study references this concept in connection to Vallaris solanacea, suggesting its capability to detoxify environments, showcasing the multi-faceted applications of plant properties beyond health pharmaceuticals to ecological stewardship.

33) Hordeum vulgare:
Hordeum vulgare, commonly known as barley, represents yet another plant with potential proteolytic enzymes. By including this species in the context of protease studies, the research indicates the diverse sources from which beneficial enzymes can be derived, supporting wider applications across agricultural and food industries.

34) Cocos nucifera:
Cocos nucifera, the coconut palm, is known for its varied uses in food, medicine, and cosmetics. Its mention within the study signifies its relevance as a plant species which contains bioactive compounds that may offer protease alternatives and applications in therapeutic settings.

35) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
The term 'antibacterial' refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth. The study notes the presence of proteolytic enzymes in plant latex, emphasizing their potential antibacterial properties, which can lead to novel pharmaceutical developments and effective treatments for infections.

36) Civilization:
The term 'civilization' signifies the historical context of human reliance on plants for medicine. It emphasizes the long-standing tradition of utilizing botanical knowledge to address health challenges, reinforcing the importance of exploring plant compounds for modern therapeutic applications.

37) Purification:
Purification is a crucial step in the study, particularly concerning the isolation of active enzymes. This process ensures that the proteases derived from plant latex can be studied without interference from other compounds, thus contributing to a clearer understanding of their properties and applications.

38) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a fundamental biological response, and plant-derived proteases exhibit potential anti-inflammatory effects. This relevance underscores the therapeutic applications of these proteases in addressing inflammatory conditions, enhancing the interest in plant-based solutions in clinical settings.

39) Surrounding:
The term 'surrounding' in the context of the study may refer to environmental factors impacting the growth and properties of the plants studied. Understanding the surrounding conditions can provide valuable insight into the ecological aspects that influence the production of proteolytic enzymes.

40) Perception:
Perception in this research context relates to how plants respond to environmental stresses or invader attacks. The study demonstrates the role of proteases in signaling pathways, emphasizing their involvement in plant defense mechanisms, which in turn informs potential therapeutic developments.

41) Developing:
Developing in the study emphasizes the evolution of research focused on discovering new therapeutic agents from plants. This aligns with the overarching goal of identifying novel proteases that could lead to advancements in medication and improved treatment protocols for various diseases.

42) Simhapuri (Siṃhapurī, Siṃhapuri, Simha-puri):
Simhapuri, as in Vikrama Simhapuri University, is representative of the academic institution contributing to this research. It highlights the intersection of education and scientific investigation in exploring biodiversity and reinforces the role of education in propelling advancements in drug discovery.

43) Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is mentioned as a plant known for its medicinal properties and potential proteolytic activity. Its inclusion underscores the focus on diverse plant sources and their applications in both traditional medicine and contemporary therapeutic practices, demonstrating the interconnectedness of various plants in healthcare.

44) Knowledge:
Knowledge pertains to the traditional understanding and application of plants in medicine, particularly in India. This study leverages ancient wisdom alongside modern scientific techniques, affirming the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary research to foster drug development.

45) Container:
A 'container' serves a functional role in the research by providing a means to safely collect and store plant latex during experiments. Utilizing appropriate containers ensures that samples remain uncontaminated, thus preserving their integrity for accurate scientific analysis.

46) Attacking:
The concept of 'attacking' relates to plant defenses against environmental stressors and pathogens. In this study, the proteases released by plants serve as a defensive mechanism, illustrating the chemical warfare strategy plants employ, which can be harnessed for therapeutic applications.

47) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine in India that emphasizes the use of natural remedies, including plant extracts. The study's context reinforces the contemporary relevance of Ayurvedic practices in drug discovery, illustrating an enduring connection between history and modern pharmacology.

48) Medicine:
The term 'medicine' encapsulates the field primarily concerned with health and healing. The study discusses the potential of plant latex-derived proteases as future medicinal agents, illustrating the continuous exploration of natural resources for innovative healthcare solutions.

49) Attacked:
The term 'attacked' may relate to plant interactions with herbivores or pathogens, emphasizing the importance of defensive encoded enzymes like proteases in survival. This highlights the continual evolutionary battle between plants and pests, reinforcing the significance of exploring defensive mechanisms for therapeutic applications.

50) Vikrama:
Vikrama Simhapuri University is relevant as the academic institute from which the research emanates. It embodies the integration of education, research, and practical applications in biochemistry, facilitating advancements in studies focusing on bioactive compounds in plants and their therapeutic uses.

51) Pungent:
Pungent describes the strong odor associated with latex, which signifies the presence of various bioactive compounds. This sensory characteristic can provide clues about the chemical composition of the latex, aiding in identifying its potential applications and therapeutic properties.

52) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning refers to a method previously employed for recovering silver from photographic films. The study advocates for more environmentally friendly enzymatic processes that can mitigate pollution and demonstrate the wider applications of plant proteases in sustainable practices.

53) Siddha (Siddhā):
Siddha is another traditional medicinal practice in India, focusing on herb-based therapies. It complements the Ayurvedic approach and supports the study's emphasis on leveraging traditional knowledge for modern drug development, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage in the utilization of plant resources.

54) Weapon:
The term 'weapon' metaphorically underscores the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds against diseases. It indicates that plants hold natural 'weapons' in the form of bioactive metabolites and enzymes, which can be harnessed for developing effective treatments in modern medicine.

55) Sugar:
Sugar denotes carbohydrates that might be linked to various biochemical processes in plants. Within the study, reducing sugars are highlighted, indicating the polysaccharide components that may coexist with proteases and their significance in plant physiology and potential interactions in therapeutic contexts.

56) Gravy:
Gravy is referenced in the context of food applications, especially regarding the use of proteases in breaking down proteinaceous stains. The study emphasizes the utility of plant-derived proteases in the detergent industry, showcasing their practical benefits in everyday cooking and household needs.

57) Field:
Field refers to the breadth of biological and biochemical studies conducted to explore plant resources. In this research, various fields converge, including ecology, pharmacology, and biochemistry, to assess the therapeutic applications of plant compounds effectively.

58) Death:
Death is a critical aspect of understanding diseases and their challenges within pharmacology. The implications of protease activities in combating diseases highlight the urgent need to address health issues that might lead to mortality, reinforcing the importance of developing effective treatments from plant sources.

59) Fight:
Fight symbolizes the ongoing battle against diseases and infections. The study draws attention to the necessity of developing efficacious treatments through natural compounds, emphasizing the role of plant proteases in enhancing resistance against pathogenic challenges in the fight for better health.

60) Blood:
Blood signifies a vital biological fluid often involved in various diseases and treatments. The proteolytic activities discussed in this study point to potential applications in medical scenarios, particularly in therapeutics aimed at blood-related conditions, thus linking the study of plants to crucial health outcomes.

61) Lemon:
Lemon, like many botanicals, signifies the presence of phytochemicals with potential therapeutic applications. In the context of the study, it could allude to plant-derived compounds akin to the potent bioactive properties found in various fruits, emphasizing the relevance of exploring natural products in drug discovery.

62) Shala (Sālā, Sāla, Śala, Śālā, Śāla, Sala):
Sala may refer to specific plants or a contextual element in the study related to botanical classifications or research frameworks. Its focus on specific entities enhances the overall understanding of biodiversity as it relates to drug discovery and the therapeutic potential of specific plants.

63) Hela (Helā, Helá):
Hela highlights cancer treatment under investigation within the research context. The mention evokes the connection to specific cell lines used for assessing the efficacy of plant extracts, underscoring the significance of plant-derived compounds in advancing cancer therapies and other medical research.

64) Rice (Ṛce):
Rice is a staple food crop and may also refer to studies involving proteases in food processing. The evaluation of various food sources showcases how plant-derived enzymes can enhance nutritional quality and facilitate food preparation, further exemplifying the interplay between health and agriculture.

65) Meat:
Meat indicates an organic source of protein that can benefit from proteolytic enzymes found in various plant sources. The study emphasizes the emerging applications of plant-derived proteases, which can enhance the tenderness and digestibility of meat, showcasing their vital role in food science.

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