Classical taxonomy,molecular phylogeny and genetic analysis of the genus Exitianus Ball,1929(Hemiptera:Cicadellidae:Deltocephalinae)from Egypt

Egyptian species of the leafhopper genus Exitianus Ball,1929,E.capicola(St?l,1855),E.nanus(Distant,1908),and E.pondus Ross,1968 are reviewed.Illustrations,morphological descriptions,and a key for their identification are provided.In this study,we used molecular techniques to confirm morphological identification and detect phylogeny among the three Exitianus species.The partial nucleotide sequences of the amplified products obtained were determined by Macrogen Korea.The nucleotide sequences of 28S rDNA and COX genes of the EGY-ARC-9,EGY-ARC-4,and EGY-ARC-5 were determined by Macrogen Korea,blasted into BLAST at the National Center for Biotechnology Information website(NCBI)and compared with those deposited in the GenBank DNA database.The results represented the homology percentage between the partial sequences of the 28S rRNA and COX genes from each species and related species obtained from GenBank DNA database.The morphological identifications of the three Exitianus species were confirmed by molecular characterization and sequencing of 28S rDNA and COX genes and identified as E.capicola,E.nanus,and E.pondus.Also,their sequences of 28srDNA and COX genes were deposited in GenBank with an accession number(LC670610,LC670607,and OQ196105)for 28srDNA gene and(LC775357,LC775358,and LC775359)for the COX gene.

Partial Characterization of Thrombin Inhibitor(s) Derived from Salivary Glands of the Tick, <i>Hyalomma dromedarii</i>, and Related Anti-Cancer Potential

A long-term blood feeder, like the Hyalomma dromedarii tick, requires extended control over all hemostatic defense mechanisms generated by the host during feeding, including blood coagulation. To overcome this, ticks have evolved numerous molecules that target proteases in the blood coagulation cascade. New insights into the role of clotting factors in the development and progression of cancer have identified anticoagulant treatment as a potential therapeutic approach. In this context, the present work assessed the anticoagulation activities of crude and fractionated salivary gland extract (SGE) prepared from semi-fed H. dromedarii females. Additionally, the antitumor effects of the potent anti-thrombin fractions were determined against colon cancer (Caco-2) and normal skin (HFB4) cells. Crude SGE significantly prolonged clotting time in prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and thrombin time (TT) assays and inhibited thrombin in FII-activity assay. Using anion-exchange chromatography, the fractions that strongly inhibited thrombin (3.A4 and 3.A5) were eluted. Both fractions prolonged the aPTT and TT clotting times and reduced the activity of FII significantly. The protein profiles of both fractions indicated the presence of a single polypeptide band of about 99 kDa. Regarding anti-cancer potential of the tested fractions, Caco-2 cells showed reduced viability with obvious morphological changes, induced apoptosis and a reduced level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). G2/M cell cycle arrest was observed only in 3.A5-treated cells. No cytotoxic effects were observed in HFB4 cells. These results demonstrated the potential of tick-derived anticoagulants, specifically thrombin inhibitors, as effective tools in colorectal cancer treatment. Further purification of the effector molecule(s) is required to fully characterize their structures and mechanisms of action.

Noninvasive Fibrosis Assessment in Chronic Hepatitis C Infection: An Update

Liver biopsy is historically the gold standard for liver fibrosis assessment of chronic hepatitis C patients.However,with the introduction and validation of noninvasive tests(NITs)to evaluate advanced fibrosis,and the direct-acting antiviral agents for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus(HCV),the role of NITs have become even more complex.There is now need for longitudinal monitoring and elucidation of cutoff values for prediction of liver-related complication after sustained virological response.The aim of this report is to provide a critical overview of the various NITs available for the assessment of liver fibrosis in HCV patients.

Therapeutic Perspectives of IL1 Family Members in Liver Diseases:An Update

Interleukin(IL)1 superfamily members are a cornerstone of a variety of inflammatory processes occurring in various organs including the liver.Progression of acute and chronic liver diseases regardless of etiology depends on the stage of hepatocyte damage,the release of inflammatory cytokines and disturbances in gut microbiota.IL1 cytokines and re-ceptors can have pro-or anti-inflammatory roles,even dual functionalities conditioned by the microenvironment.Devel-oping novel therapeutic strategies to block the IL1/IL1R sign-aling pathways seems like a reasonable option.This mode of action is now exploited by anakinra and canakinumab,which are used to treat different inflammatory illnesses,and studies in liver diseases are on the way.In this mini review,we have focused on the IL1 superfamily members,given their cru-cial role in liver inflammation diseases,specifically discussing their potential role in developing new treatment strategies.