International Journal of Biology and Chemistry

Production of the soluble form of the Rabies virus glycoprotein ectodomain as a subunit vaccine candidate

G. Bayandy — 2026-01-30

Rabies remains a serious global public health concern. The envelope glycoprotein of the rabies virus (RABV-G) is the principal viral antigen and harbors critical neutralizing epitopes, making it a promising target for subunit vaccine development and diagnostic applications. Nevertheless, the efficient production of recombinant RABV-G with preserved antigenic and immunogenic properties remains technically demanding. In this work, we developed an optimized strategy for the expression and purification of recombinant RABV-G and assessed its antigenicity and immunogenicity. The rabies virus glycoprotein ectodomain (rRABV-GE) was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli Rosetta2(DE3)pLysS and purified in a biologically relevant form. The rRABV-GE gene was codon-optimized and cloned into the pET-28c(+) expression vector, resulting in recombinant protein expression largely in an insoluble state. Consequently, the protein was subjected to refolding and purification procedures. To improve protein solubility, hydrophobic loop regions were substituted with flexible linker sequences. Protein purification was performed under denaturing conditions using urea, followed by affinity chromatography. The identity and antigenicity of the purified protein were confirmed by Western blot analysis and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ELISA testing was performed using rabbit sera collected from animals immunized with the commercial Purified Vero Cell Rabies Vaccine (RHABDOVAC-1). Collectively, these findings indicate that the optimized bacterial expression platform enables the production of biologically relevant rRABV-GE and provides a cost-effective approach for the development of rabies subunit vaccines and diagnostic reagents. In summary, the recombinant rRABV-G protein produced in this study appears to be a suitable diagnostic antigen for ELISA-based and other rabies virus immunodiagnostic uses.

Keywords: Rabies virus, glycoprotein ectodomain, antibody, ELISA, Rosetta2(DE3)pLysS, vaccine.

Evaluation of genomic DNA extraction from different body parts of Puntius ticto (Hamilton, 1822), Pakistan

R. Javed — 2026-01-30

In study of genome at molecular level the first basic step is extraction of highly pure with maximum concentration of DNA. For the extraction of DNA, the selected method must be, efficient, cost-effective, time-saving and less laborious. Present study aimed to isolate and compare the concentration and purity of DNA from external parts (caudal fin, pectoral fin, pelvic fin, dorsal fin) and muscle tissues of freshwater wild Puntius ticto fish by modified Phenol chloroform method using a Nanodrop spectrophotometer at absorbance of A_260/280. A total of 50 samples of were used from extraction of DNA and evaluated the concentration and purity of DNA using Nanodrop. Results showed that a highly concentration of isolated DNA 970 ng∙µl^-1 was obtained from muscle tissue of P. ticto as compared to caudal fins 559 ng∙µl^-1, pectoral fins 609 ng∙µl^-1, pelvic fin 420 ng∙µl^-1, and dorsal fin 748 ng∙µl^-1. In terms of purity (1.7-2.0), mean high purity values 1.71 of isolated DNA obtained from muscle tissue of P. ticto as compared to dorsal fins 1.84, pectoral fins 1.93 whereas, isolated DNA found below purity from caudal fins 1.63 and pelvic fins 1.53. Concluding that fish muscle tissue can ideally be used for DNA extraction with Phenol chloroform method in P. ticto. According to best of our knowledge, no previous work of DNA extraction has been done on this fish, and this is the first attempt to extract DNA from caudal fin, pectoral fin, pelvic fin, dorsal fin and muscle tissues of freshwater fish wild P. ticto. Moreover, data about modified Phenol chloroform method provided in this study can be useful for other wild fishes.

Key words: DNA isolation, Phenol chloroform method, Nanodrop spectrophotometer, Gel electrophoresis, Puntius ticto

Bibliometric and co-occurrence study of the production of cellulase from Bacillus (2000–2025)

T. Maryyam — 2026-01-30

Cellulase refers to a group of enzymes that can break down cellulose, the most widespread organic polymer on Earth. It is one of the most important industrial enzymes due to its application in the production of valuable products such as biofuels, papers and textiles. Many microorganisms naturally produce cellulase, including Bacillus species. This study presents detailed bibliometric analysis of Bacillus cellulase. The core objective of this study is to provide global research trends related to Bacillus cellulase. It highlights leading authors, institutions, countries and sources that have major contributions in this area of research. The Scopus Dataset of 2212 documents was included for analysis. VOSviewer and Biblioshiny software were employed for bibliometric analysis and visualization. The most prolific author was Zhang Y with highest number of publications (45) and citations. China ranked first among top contributing countries, followed by India with second position. This study will help researchers in understanding global research trends on Bacillus cellulase.

Keywords: Bacillus, cellulase, Bibliometric study, VOSviewer, Biblioshiny.

Environmental influence on the phytochemical composition of Calligonum leucocladum populations in Kazakhstan

M. Mussina — 2026-01-30

Calligonum leucocladum (Polygonaceae) is a characteristic shrub of arid and semi-arid regions of Central Asia, where plant survival is limited by scarce water and extreme temperature fluctuations. This study investigated the phytochemical profiles of three spatially separated populations of C. leucocladum collected from natural habitats in Kazakhstan. The results demonstrated the presence of various phenolic compounds, organic acids, and amino acids. Among them, artepillin C and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) were detected in this species for the first time. Distinct differences in metabolite accumulation between populations were recorded. In particular, individuals from population P3, located in semi-arid mountainous terrain at an altitude of about 800 m above sea level, were characterised by increased concentrations of phenolic compounds, soluble carbohydrates and the osmoprotective amino acid proline. These population - specific metabolic features probably reflect biochemical adaptations to contrasting environmental influences. These results indicate that C. leucocladum is a valuable source of biologically active compounds, and variations in the composition of its metabolites are closely related to habitat conditions.

Keywords: Calligonum leucocladum, phenolic compounds, artepillin C, proline, pharmacological potential, metabolic adaptation.

In vitro assessment of potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of chickens

K. Nokhaiz — 2026-01-30

The global prohibition on antibiotics as growth promoters in poultry has prompted a shift toward probiotics as viable substitutes. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) offer various benefits, including modulation of gut microbiota, maintenance of intestinal equilibrium, and enhancement of immune function. This study isolated and identified Lactobacillus strains from chicken small intestines, evaluating their in vitro survival and gastrointestinal (GI) colonization capabilities. LAB was cultured on de Man Rogosa Sharpe (MRS) agar for 24-48 hours, with species-specific strains identified through biochemical tests and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Sequence analysis identified the species as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus casei. Their resilience to simulated gastric conditions and antibiotic susceptibility assessed via the agar well diffusion method, indicated robust tolerance to pH 3.5 and 0.3% bile salts, alongside notable resistance (90%) to tetracycline. Growth kinetics at varying temperatures and NaCl concentrations revealed optimal conditions at 37°C and 4% NaCl, respectively, with growth diminishing at higher concentrations. In conclusion, Lactobacillus species exhibit significant resilience to harsh GI conditions, underscoring their potential as effective antibiotic alternatives in poultry production.

Keywords: antibiotic alternatives, gut microbiota, lactic acid bacteria, microbial ecology, poultry production, gastrointestinal tract

Toxicity and antimicrobial activity of tropylated aniline and its derivatives

T.V. Polyudova — 2026-01-30

This study investigated the biological activity of tropylated aniline 4-(7-cyclohepta-1,3,5-trienyl)aniline and its derivatives belonging to the group of secondary aromatic amines – N-2-hydroxyphenylmethyl-4¹-(7-cyclohepta-1,3,5-trienyl)aniline and the group of azomethines – N-2-hydroxyphenylmethylene-4¹-(7-cyclohepta-1,3,5-trienyl)aniline. Tropylated aniline was synthesized by mixing tropyllium tetrafluoroborate and aniline in ethanol. N-2-hydroxyphenylmethyl-4¹-(7-cyclohepta-1,3,5-trienyl)aniline and N-2-hydroxyphenylmethylene-4¹-(7-cyclohepta-1,3,5-trienyl)aniline were obtained via a one-pot multicomponent synthesis. Tropylated aniline and its derivatives showed no toxic effects on Galleria mellonella larvae upon invasive administration of 10 µL solutions at a concentration of 1 mg/mL (10 µg/larva). In vitro experiments demonstrated that Gram-negative bacteria and Gram-positive bacteria with hydrophilic cell walls exhibit low susceptibility to tropylated aniline and are resistant to its derivatives. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the studied compounds were determined. The MBC/MIC ratio for all susceptible bacteria was ≤4, indicating their bactericidal activity. A dependence of bacterial susceptibility to tropylated aniline and its derivatives on the level of bacterial cell hydrophobicity was demonstrated. High susceptibility to the studied compounds was revealed in mycomembrane bacteria of the Mycobacterium genus, whose cell walls contain mycolic acids and exhibit a high level of hydrophobicity. The obtained compounds are of practical relevance as potential anti-tuberculosis agents.

Key words: antibacterial activity, hydrophobicity, tropylidene cycle, mycomembrane, toxicity, Galleria mellonella

Feeding resources and key nutrients of commercial fish in the Ural-Caspian Basin

N. Popov — 2026-01-30

The article presents information on hydrobiological monitoring in the Ural–Caspian Basin, including phytoplankton, zooplankton, and benthic communities in the Ural–Caspian Basin. The annual dynamics of hydrobiont biomass density have been established, showing seasonal variations with the highest values in summer and the lowest in winter. The qualitative and quantitative composition of aquatic organisms was studied depending on the discharge volume and flow levels of the Ural (Zhaiyk) River. In high-water years, the biomass of phytoplankton and the abundance of zooplankton increased by 1.4 and 2.2 times, respectively. In recent years, an increase in the biomass of gelatinous zooplankton has been observed. Among them, the comb jelly Mnemiopsis is spreading particularly actively, successfully colonizing shallow, low-salinity areas of the sea. This species is a major consumer of zooplankton, which negatively affects the food base of planktivorous fish and the juveniles of all ichthyofauna species in the Caspian Sea. An analysis was also conducted on the feeding preferences of anadromous, marine, semi-anadromous, and freshwater species inhabiting the Caspian Sea.

Keywords: forage base, abundance, biomass, ichthyofauna, fish diet.

A Schiff base 4-chloro-2-((pyridin-3-ylimino)methyl)phenol: crystal structure details, computational study, proteolytic properties, molecular docking, in vivo toxicity and in vitro antibacterial activity

A.V. Sharov — 2026-01-30

In the present study, a synthesis, computational modeling and experimental investigation of 4-chloro-2-((pyridin-3-ylimino)methyl)phenol was reported. A Hirshfeld surface analysis was used for elucidation of interatomic contacts to the crystal structure of the sub-stance. A DFT analysis was used for geometry optimisation, modeling of both IR- and electronic spectra of three tautomeric forms and their comparison with the experimental spectra. A molecular docking was used for estimation of binding of three tautomeric forms with some proteins of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The ionisation constants in hydroethanolic mixtures were determined. The results of the antimicrobial tests of microamounts of 4-chloro-2-((pyridin-3-ylimino)methyl)phenol deposited onto the surface of titanium alloy of medical grade against the same microbials, and of the toxicity test of this compound with laboratory mice were provided. An inhibitory activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa was revealed.

Keywords: Schiff base; crystal structure; Hirshfeld surface analysis; computational study; DFT; molecular docking; toxicity; antibacterial activity.

Reactive compatibilization of EPDM/PA6 blends with dicumyl peroxide: structure–property relationships

F.A. Amirli — 2026-01-30

In this study, binary blends based on ethylene–propylene–diene rubber (EPDM) and polyamide-6 (PA6) were systematically prepared with varying PA6 contents ranging from 10 to 40 phr. Dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was employed as a reactive compatibilizer in order to promote chemical linkages between the elastomeric and thermoplastic components and thereby enhance interfacial adhesion. The blending process was carried out in a Banbury internal mixer under controlled temperature and shear conditions, ensuring homogeneous distribution of the polyamide phase within the EPDM matrix, and the obtained compounds were subsequently compression molded to produce uniform test specimens.

The effect of increasing PA6 concentration on the physicomechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of the blends was extensively investigated. Tensile testing demonstrated that the incorporation of higher amounts of PA6 significantly increased tensile strength, modulus, and Shore hardness, which can be attributed to the reinforcing action of the rigid polyamide domains and the formation of peroxide-induced covalent interfacial linkages. Thermal gravimetric analysis further revealed an improvement in thermal stability with rising PA6 content, while differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis indicated a gradual upward shift in storage modulus and in the glass transition behavior, consistent with the contribution of the stiff thermoplastic phase.

On the other hand, elongation at break and overall elasticity decreased as the PA6 fraction was raised, reflecting the stiffer and less deformable nature of the dispersed polyamide particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed that optimal phase dispersion and strong interfacial adhesion were obtained in blends containing approximately 20–30 phr PA6 together with 1.0–1.2 phr DCP. These particular formulations offered the best balance between mechanical strength, flexibility, and heat resistance. Overall, the results demonstrate that peroxide-compatibilized EPDM/PA6 blends possess tunable and application-oriented properties suitable for engineering uses where both mechanical robustness and thermal durability are simultaneously required.

Keywords: EPDM, PA6, reactive compatibilization, dicumyl peroxide, mechanical properties, thermal stability, morphology.

Assessment of natural radionuclides content in humate-containing fertilizers

M.M. Burkitbayev — 2026-01-30

Humic substances (HS) possess significant physiological activity and play a crucial role in enhancing soil properties and plant productivity. This study is devoted to the determination of the content of natural radionuclides in humate-containing samples obtained from natural raw materials of Kazakhstan. Five samples, including both solid and liquid fertilizers, were prepared and analyzed. Key parameters such as elemental composition, content of carboxyl and phenolic groups, and the yield of free humic acids were determined. The concentrations of uranium-238, uranium-234, thorium-232, thorium-230, thorium-228, polonium-210, and lead-210 isotopes were measured using alpha-spectrometric and alpha-beta radiometric methods. Results indicated that the liquid fertilizer exhibited the lowest radionuclide activities, while the solid samples showed varying levels of radioactive isotopes, with the highest activity recorded in sample A2. Nonetheless, the specific activities of all measured radionuclides complied with the national radiation safety standards (SanPiN 2.6.1.2523-09), confirming the fertilizers' safety for agricultural use. This work highlights the importance of radiation monitoring in fertilizers and the potential of humate-containing materials as environmentally friendly agricultural enhancers. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices through the safe utilization of natural organomineral fertilizers derived from local raw materials.

Keywords: Humic substances, natural radionuclide, fertilizers, uranium series, activity concentration

Determination of ADMET properties of substituted-piperidine-3-carboxamide derivatives with potential use in the treatment of Crohn's disease

F. İslamoğlu — 2026-01-30

In this study, ADME studies were carried out on seven different substituted-piperidine-3-carboxamide derivatives compounds, which were considered as drug active ingredients that can be used in the treatment of Chron’s disease with docking studies that were done in our previous studies. In this context, these molecules were examined in terms of physicochemical properties, lipophilicity, water solubility, absorption property, distribution property, metabolism property, toxicity property, environmental toxicity property, tox21 pathway property, and medicinal chemistry property. According to the results obtained, it was concluded that (E)-4-((4-(((4-bromopyridin-1(2H)-yl)methylene)amino)-3-(4-methoxy phenyl)-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)methyl) piperazine-1-carboxylic acid molecule is the most ideal molecule that can be used in the treatment of Chron’s disease in terms of ADME properties among the molecules studied.

Keywords: Crohn's disease, piperidine-3-carboxamide derivatives, ADME properties, physicochemical properties, toxicity property, medicinal chemistry property

The influence of some trivalent metal cations on the structure and corrosion properties of phosphates

A. Niyazbekova — 2026-01-30

This study presents an investigation into the inhibitory properties of phosphate-based systems used for the protection of metals against corrosion. Various types of phosphates are examined, including ortho-, di-, and cyclophosphates, as well as their interactions with metals in aggressive environments. Special attention is given to the influence of iron modifier ions on the efficiency of corrosion inhibition. The potential of modifying phosphate systems to enhance protective properties is analyzed.

The aim of this research is to study and apply complex inhibitors that provide a high level of protection for steel structures against corrosion. The material used for the investigation is carbon structural steel of ordinary quality, compliant with the European standard S235JR (EN 10025-2). Various inorganic phosphate formulations modified with trivalent iron, aluminum, and lanthanum ions were selected as inhibitors.

Shifts in spectral bands were observed, corresponding to the deformation vibrations of hydroxyl groups and Al-O bonds. These shifts suggest interactions between the ionic dopants and the phosphate matrix. Specifically, bands shifted from 735 to 671 cm⁻¹. Similarly, the band associated with Al-O interactions changed from 530 to 555 cm⁻¹, while the HPO₄⁻ band shifted from 940 to 979 cm⁻¹ in the presence of Al³⁺ ions. Deviations in the vibrational frequencies of Al-O and HPO₄⁻ indicate changes in chemical bonding and increased reactivity of the inhibitors.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provided high-resolution images and elemental composition of corrosion deposits on the steel surface. The method revealed the distribution of elements: oxygen (36.17%), iron (26.79%), phosphorus (4.72%), as well as minor amounts of sodium (0.78%) and aluminum (1.39%) in corrosion products, and allowed localization of protective layers.

The results of this study demonstrate that modifying phosphates with trivalent iron, aluminum, and lanthanum ions leads to significant changes in their inhibitory properties.

Keywords: corrosion, inhibitor, orthophosphates, degree of protection, depth index.

Acid- and amide-controlled sol–gel synthesis of SiO2-based polymer composites

M.P. Azizova — 2026-01-30

The sol–gel method is a versatile approach for synthesizing advanced inorganic and organic–inorganic hybrid materials with controlled structure, high purity, and tunable functionality. This study systematically investigated the hydrolytic polycondensation of tetramethoxysilane under acidic conditions to develop an optimized route for high-quality SiO₂-based polymer–inorganic composites. The effects of medium acidity, catalyst type, solvent, and amide-based drying-control chemical additives (DCCA) on hydrolysis and condensation kinetics were evaluated. Strong acids accelerated hydrolysis, while weak acids promoted gradual condensation, yielding highly porous but mechanically weaker gels. Acetic acid facilitated homogeneous gel formation and improved transparency and pore uniformity by removing volatile ester by-products. Among the amides, dimethylacetamide and diethylformamide were found to be effective pH regulators in gelation, yielding dense, crack-free gels with lower microporosity and improved mechanical strength. SEM investigations have confirmed the more homogeneous, more compact structures of dimethylacetamide-containting gels, as compared with amide-free gels. Use of acetic acid as the solvent played an important role in controlling the micro-pores, carbon content, density, and stability of gels. In general, this work presents a comprehensive methodological approach for designing sol–gel SiO₂-based hybrid nanomaterials with designed structural and physicochemical properties, with their potential use in advanced optical, catalysis, coatings, and other functional applications.

Keywords: sol-gel process, tetrametoxysilane, hydrolysis, polycondensation, acidic environment.

Solid polymer electrolytes and their role in the development of next generation Li-ion batteries

N. Zhumasheva — 2026-01-30

Over the past ten years, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become indispensable for powering wearable technology, smart electronics, and electric cars. However, the use of extremely flammable and volatile liquid electrolytes in typical Li-ion rechargeable batteries raises serious safety issues and prevents future advancements in energy density and dependability. Solid electrolytes have been suggested as viable solutions to these problems. In particular, polymer-based solid electrolytes combine high ionic conductivity with advantages such as low flammability, mechanical flexibility, thermal stability, and improved safety. This review highlights recent advances in solid polymer electrolytes for LIBs, with a focus on their fabrication strategies, structural designs, ionic conductivities, and electrochemical/mechanical stabilities.

Keywords: Lithium-ion batteries, Solid polymer electrolytes, Ionic conductivity, Safety, Electrochemical stability, Fabrication strategies.

Linking molecular structure to chromatographic behavior: a quantitative structure-retention relationship study of Olea europaea L. essential oil components

S. Kherouf — 2026-01-30

A robust quantitative structure-retention relationship (QSRR) model was developed to accurately predict the linear retention indices (LRI) of 51 essential oil compounds. Molecular descriptors were calculated using alvaDesc software, and model construction was achieved through a multiple linear regression (MLR) approach. A rigorous variable selection process identified relevant descriptors, resulting in a statistically significant model with strong predictive performance (R² = 0.9533, Q²_LOO = 0.9339, Q²_LMO= 0.9293, RMSE_tr = 55.0581, s = 50.0169). External validation further confirmed the model’s reliability, demonstrating excellent predictive capability (R²_ext= 0.9381, Q²_F1 = 0.9361, Q²_F2 = 0.9354, Q²_F3= 0.9646, CCC_ext = 0.9663, RMSE_ext= 40.3308). The findings highlight the efficiency of the QSRR-MLR model in predicting retention indices, providing valuable insights into molecular properties influencing compound retention. Additionally, the applicability domain assessment ensured reliable predictions within the studied chemical space. This methodology offers a deeper understanding of chromatographic behavior and presents potential for application to other chemical classes for predictive modeling.

Keywords: QSRR, essential oil, volatile chemicals, prediction set, validation.

In silico docking and interaction analysis of KazMeI with α-glucosidase as a potential antidiabetic agent

S. Bayazit — 2026-01-30

The present study focuses on the molecular docking and interaction analysis of the Kazcaine (1-(2-ethoxyethyl)-4-ethynyl-4-benzoyloxypiperidine) derivative KazMeI with the α-glucosidase enzyme (PDB ID: 5NN4), the principal therapeutic target in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. For crystal structure modeling of human lysosomal acid-alpha-glucosidase, GAA/N-acetyl-cysteine complex was utilized. The ligand structure was designed in ChemDraw, geometry-optimized using a Python-based MM2 molecular mechanics force field, and converted to PDBQT format in AutoDockTools v1.5.6. The protein structure was prepared by removing water molecules, adding polar hydrogens, and centering the docking grid at coordinates (–6.152, –33.636, 91.204 Å). Docking simulations performed in AutoDock4.2 using the Lamarckian Genetic Algorithm produced ten conformations with highly consistent binding orientations. The lowest binding free energy (ΔG) was –7.00 kcal/mol, corresponding to an inhibition constant (Ki) of 7.37 μM, indicating moderate yet biologically relevant affinity. Interaction analysis revealed that KazMeI forms hydrophobic and π–π stacking contacts with Leu286, Pro285, Leu291, and Trp613, and hydrogen bonding with Ser601 and Thr286, while the quaternary ammonium group interacts electrostatically with Arg600. These results confirm the predicted antidiabetic potential of the patented derivative KazMeI compound (Utility Model Patent No. 9796, Kazakhstan, 2024) and support its further development as a lead α-glucosidase inhibitor.

Keywords: Autodock, Pymol, ChemDraw, molecular docking, α-glucosidase, Kazcaine derivative, antidiabetic agents