Papers by Nikoloz Zhgenti
International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews (IJRAR) , 2024
A protein fraction exhibiting lectin activity was identified in the extract of local Roman bean (... more A protein fraction exhibiting lectin activity was identified in the extract of local Roman bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) sprouts. The galactose-specific lectins demonstrated the highest activity. The galactose-specific lectin (BS-Gal) was purified using affinity chromatography on an ES-2100-100 column. Gel electrophoresis revealed that BS-Gal consists of two protein subunits with molecular weights of 60 and 54 kDa, respectively. Various physicochemical properties of the lectin were investigated, showing optimal activity within a pH range of 7-9 and temperatures from 0 to 75 °C, beyond which its hemagglutinating activity diminishes. The lectin displayed high sensitivity to divalent ions and certain amino acids. Calcium and magnesium ions significantly contribute to the structural integrity of the lectin, as indicated by changes in hemagglutinating activity in the presence of EDTA and EGTA. Additionally, BS-Gal was found to bind to human erythrocytes expressing A and B antigens.
Background: Suicide is a pressing issue globally, particularly among young people, and is a signi... more Background: Suicide is a pressing issue globally, particularly among young people, and is a significant concern in low- and middle-income countries. A prior study by Kiladze and colleagues highlighted a surge in suicide rates in Georgia between 2011 and 2014. Additionally, studies have shown that suicide risk may be exacerbated by an array of psychiatric and socio-environmental factors. Aim: The study aims to uncover suicide trends in Georgia and understand their associations with different mental health and social conditions. Methods: Based on the data sourced from various government agencies, the study analyzed suicide and suicide attempt cases, mental health data, relative poverty rates, and domestic violence incidents. To assess statistical significance, the t-test and Pearson coefficient were used to calculate p-values. Results: The findings revealed a stark 53.68% increase in suicides from 2017 to 2022. Men were more prone to suicide, and their attempts were more often fatal. Suicide rates among individuals under 18 were significantly high and correlated with behavioral and emotional disorders. Substance use disorders have a strong link to suicide among men. Domestic violence, especially sexual violence, played a disturbing role in this surge. Conclusion: In Georgia, suicides surged significantly, contrasting the mere two percent increase in the United States. This can be linked to mental health issues, notably Substance Use Disorder in men, and behavioral disorders in those under 18. Domestic violence, which had a pronounced increase, also contributed. Despite data limitations, our study underscores these concerns, emphasizing the need for further analysis.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, following Alzhe... more Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, following Alzheimer's disease, impacting approximately 1% of individuals aged 60 and older. It is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc, resulting in both motor and non-motor symptoms. Current treatments are limited, and PD's molecular basis involves alpha-synuclein aggregation, ubiquitination dysregulation, and oxidative stress. Nicotine, found in tobacco, has been associated with reduced PD risk in epidemiological studies and shown neuroprotective effects in animal models. However, its impact on oxidative stress remains unclear. A study involving 160 albino laboratory mice investigated nicotine's effects in an MPTP-induced PD model. The mice were divided into four groups: control, nicotine, MPTP, and MPTP + nicotine. The study assessed behavioral tests, dopamine levels in the SNpc, and antioxidant system activity. Nicotine improved motor function, increased dopamine levels, and reduced oxidative stress markers in the PD model. Importantly, it selectively enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, in PD-affected mice without affecting healthy animals. Nicotine demonstrates neuroprotective effects in an MPTP-induced PD model, ameliorating motor deficits, increasing dopamine levels, and reducing oxidative stress. It enhances the activity of key antioxidant enzymes in the substantia nigra, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for PD treatment. However, further research is needed, including human studies and a deeper understanding of nicotine's impact on oxidative stress. These results contribute to our understanding of PD pathogenesis and offer insights into novel therapeutic approaches for this debilitating disorder. They also raise questions about the differential effects of nicotine in healthy individuals and those with PD, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in neurodegenerative diseases.
Uploads
Papers by Nikoloz Zhgenti