Digital Commons Network^™

Inactivation Of Zika Virus With Hydroxypropyl-Beta-Cyclodextrin, Cory R. Hewitt, Nicholas J. Wixon, Arthur Gallegos, You Zhou, Victor C. Huber, M. Scott. Killian

Nebraska Center for Biotechnology: Faculty and Staff Publications

Background/Objectives: Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is associated with life-threatening diseases in humans. To date, there are no available FDA-approved therapies or vaccines for the specific treatment or prevention of ZIKV infection. Variation in the ZIKV envelope protein (Env), along with its complex quaternary structure, presents challenges to synthetic approaches for developing an effective vaccine and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). We hypothesized that beta-cyclodextrin (BCD) could be used to uniquely inactivate infectious ZIKV without disruption of Env.

Methods: ZIKV was propagated in Vero cells and admixed with BCD. The BCD-treated ZIKV was evaluated for infectivity using immunofluorescence and quantitative …

Identification Of Benzothiophene-Derived Inhibitors Of Flaviviruses By Targeting Rna-Dependent Rna Polymerase, Leah Liu Wang, Shazeed-Ul Karim, Aidan Hand, Ryan Brunkhorst, Mackenna Petersen, Sarah Altam, Yi Liu, Luwen Zhang, Fengwei Bai, Shi-Hua Xiang

School of Biological Sciences: Faculty Publications

Flaviviruses such as Dengue, West Nile, and Zika viruses are mosquito-borne RNA viruses that can cause serious diseases in humans. To develop effective drugs for treating these viruses’ infections, we create a new approach for developing common or shared drugs that may work for several different viral species of flaviviruses. It is based on the conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is the key enzyme for viral replication. We built up a common structure of RdRps (POLcon) from their consensus sequence. A conserved Triple-D structural motif was identified at the active site of POLcon that has been used for virtual …

Principles Of Biomedical Research, Faina Linkov, Matthew C. Kostek

Open Education Materials

HLT 430/530

CC BY-NC-SA

Stachys Matthewsii: Photo Essay Of A Rare Plant, W. John Hayden

Biology Faculty Publications

On the morning of June 14, 2021, while collecting bryophytes in Goochland County with my student, Mikayla Quinn, we stumbled upon a previously unknown population of stachys matthewsii, Yadkin's Hedge Nettle.

Effects Of Starter Cultures On The Metabolite Profile, Antioxidant Activities, And Anti-Aging Properties Of Tapuy Lees, Edward Kevin B. Bragais, Paul Mark B. Medina

Biology Faculty Publications

The Philippine rice wine (tapuy) and tapuy lees making process utilizes bubod, the traditional starter culture. The bubod contains variable number and species of microorganisms and influences the physical and chemical properties of tapuy and tapuy lees, resulting in inconsistent quality products. Hence, improvement and standardization of local starter culture are significant. Here, we examined the effects of well-defined starter cultures (Rhizopus oryzae (RO), Mucor indicus (MI), and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC)) and bubod on the metabolite profile, antioxidant, and anti-aging activities of tapuy lees. Our results showed the presence of polyphenols (102.36 ± 2.84 to 173.92 …

Covariate Selection For Rna-Seq Differential Expression Analysis With Hidden Factor Adjustment, Farzana Noorzahan, Hyeongseon Jeon, Yet Nguyen

Mathematics & Statistics Faculty Publications

In RNA-seq data analysis, a primary objective is the identification of differentially expressed genes, which are genes that exhibit varying expression levels across different conditions of interest. It is widely known that hidden factors, such as batch effects, can substantially influence the differential expression analysis. Furthermore, apart from the primary factor of interest and unforeseen artifacts, an RNA-seq experiment typically contains multiple measured covariates, some of which may significantly affect gene expression levels, while others may not. Existing methods either address the covariate selection or the unknown artifacts separately. In this study, we investigate two integrated strategies, FSR_sva and SVAall_FSR, …

Developing Novel Therapeutic Strategies For Mcrc With A Brafv600e Mutation, Mariah Geisen

Theses and Dissertations--Toxicology and Cancer Biology

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The overall incidence rates of CRC have decreased in those over 50, but there is an increasing incidence rate in those under 50. Risk factors for CRC include diet, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle. Early detection of CRC is key to patient survival and treatment response. Localized CRC has a survival rate of 90% and allows for surgical resection and chemotherapy. The 5-year survival for metastatic CRC (mCRC) is significantly reduced to around 14%. Despite early detection, 50% of patients will develop metastasis after surgical resection and …

Investigating Plk1 In Pulmonary Fibrosis, Tempany Arbogast

Theses and Dissertations--Toxicology and Cancer Biology

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease, with a median survival of only 2–3 years following diagnosis. In the United States, the disease contributes to more than 40,000 deaths annually, underscoring its severe clinical burden. Alveolar type II (AT2) lung epithelial cells serve as progenitors that maintain alveolar integrity by replenishing epithelial populations and producing surfactants, while fibroblasts and myofibroblasts regulate the extracellular matrix and structural support. In pulmonary fibrosis (PF) injury to AT2 cells promotes cytokine and growth factor release, driving inflammation, fibroblast proliferation, myofibroblast accumulation, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Aberrant AT2 cell …

Movement And Activity Of Burbot, (Mizay; Lota Lota) In A Spring-Fed Minnesota Lake, Abigail M. Fountain

Biology Graduate Theses

Burbot (Mizay; Lota lota) are a relatively unmanaged freshwater fish, important in many local Indigenous cultures, but often overlooked or maltreated in research, conservation, and fishing practices. As such, relatively little research has been conducted on Burbot, despite ecological significance as an indicator species. A recent resurgence in popularity as a target species, however, has prompted new research to inform management policies. The objectives of this study were to summarize Burbot movement by identifying patterns in swimming activity and identify possible predictors of the movement observed. This study investigated the movements of 39 individuals implanted with acoustic transmitters in Bad …

Analysis Of Mutations In Bmpr2 Gene Associated With Hypertension, Elaine Vanterpool, Keury C. Ruiz

Student Posters

Mutations in the BMPR2 gene are primarily recognized for their role in the development of blood vessels, however, they have also been associated with the pathogenesis of high blood pressure, specifically in regards to altered vascular function and the endothelial cell signal. Early detection and targeted treatment, as well as lifestyle changes, are pivotal in reducing the risk of serious complications associated with high blood pressure. Recent genetic research and personalized medicine have demonstrated the potential to enhance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly through the identification of genetic mutations in the BMPR2 gene.

Analyzing The Inhibition Of Chemical Compounds On Protease In P. Aeruginosa, Elaine Vanterpool

Student Posters

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative, bacillus-shaped opportunistic pathogen, notorious for invading immunocompromised individual leading to secondary infections. These opportunistic microbes typically are implicated mild to more severe infections including burn or wound infections to more serious systemic infections. The bacterium Ps. aeruginosa utilizes a variety of virulence factors to enhance the pathogenicity of the organism. Virulence factors secreted by Ps. aeruginosa include its pili, adhesins, capsule, exotoxin A, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The proteases produced by Ps. aeruginosa are powerful virulence factors that can lead to tissue destruction and immune invasion. It is imperative that we find ways of regulating the …

Gata1 Gene Variants Associated With Myeloproliferative Syndrome And Its Impact On Hematopoiesis, Elaine Vanterpool, Marliza Mendez Del Orbe

Student Posters

Myeloproliferative syndrome (MPS) are rare blood cancers that originate from an abnormal mutation in a stem cell within the bone marrow, leading to excessive production of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. These disorders affect approximately 20,000 individuals annually in the United States, with around 295,000 people currently living with the condition. The purpose of this study is to identify and assess the pathogenicity of GATA1 gene variants associated with MPS.

An Analysis Of Ftl Variants Associated With Cataracts Disease, Elaine Vanterpool, Joram Kisaka

Student Posters

Cataract is an eye disease that clouds the eye's natural lens, which is used to focus light on the retina. This eye disease causes symptoms such as blurry vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts are tied to the gene called Ferritin Light Chain (FLT), which is found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes and plays a role in encoding the light subunits of the ferritin protein. The purpose of this research study was to identify the Ferritin Light Chain mutations that cause cataracts.

An Examination Of Lacc1 Variants Linked To Rheumatoid Arthritis, Elaine Vanterpool, Rochelle Gunter

Student Posters

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease with an annual diagnosis rate of 70 cases per 100,000 people. This is a disease that is usually identified by the abnormal entry of immune cells, such as B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and innate lymphoid cells, into the synovial tissues of the joints. When these immune cells infiltrate the joints, they can become too active, thereby contributing to the chronic inflammatory response characteristic of the disease. The objective of this study is to identify and evaluate the pathogenic potential of LACC1 variants implicated in the pathogenesis of arthritis. Simple ClinVar identified LACC1 as a …

The Duality Of The Bard1 Gene, Elaine Vanterpool, Khadra Burden

Student Posters

Breast cancer is the 2nd most diagnosed cancer in women in the United States (Mayo Clinic). Cancer is the overproduction of cells. In other words, cancer-infected cells continue to grow and may cause large growths called tumors. Although there have been innumerable strides in breast cancer research, the exact cause for breast cancer is not yet known (Mayo Clinic). It is believed that factors such as family history of the disease, early menstruation age, and obesity can increase an individual’s chances of having breast cancer. One of the well-known genes associated with breast cancer is BRCA1. A much less researched …

An Analysis Of Androgen Receptor (Ar) Variants In Breast Cancer, Elaine Vanterpool, Jordae Smith

Student Posters

The androgen receptor (AR) is a steroid-hormone activated transcription factor that regulates gene expression in response to testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While AR has been extensively studied in prostate cancer, emerging research suggests its role in breast cancer, particularly in estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). This study investigates AR variants associated with breast cancer, assessing their pathogenicity and potential impact on prognosis and treatment.

Study Of Myl3 Mutation Variants And Their Association With Cardiac Amyloidosis, Elaine Vanterpool, Kyla Tucker

Student Posters

Cardiac Amyloidosis is a rare serious, pathological, clinical progressive disease that is caused by the buildup of amyloid fibrils deposited at the cardiac level. The excess amyloid fibrils deposited in the myocardium leads to this critical condition. Cardiac amyloidosis is best treated when diagnosed in its initial stages. The purpose of this study was to identify and assess the clinical significance and pathogenicity of the Myosin light chain 3 (MYL3) its variants, and the potential link to cardiac amyloidosis. For this study, Simple ClinVar was utilized to identify MYL3 as one of the genes correlated with Cardiac Amyloidosis and variants. …

Silver Nanoparticles And Natural Compounds Can Modulate Proteolytic Activities Of Escherichia Coli, Elaine Vanterpool

Student Posters

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gram-negative, facultative anaerobic bacterium that naturally resides in the human gastrointestinal tract as a commensal microorganism. While non-pathogenic strains contribute to digestion and vitamin production, certain pathogenic strains can cause a wide range of diseases, from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to severe illness. A key factor in its pathogenicity is the production of protease enzymes that break down proteins which play a crucial role in bacterial survival and virulence. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of different antibacterial compounds in inhibiting the function of both secreted and cell-associated E. coli protease activity.

Analysis Of Kcnj2 Variants Associated With Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, Elaine Vanterpool, Kerenlaime Bautista

Student Posters

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a cardiac disorder characterized by an accessory electrical pathway, leading to tachycardia and arrhythmias. It is diagnosed via electrocardiogram (ECG), showing a shortened PR interval and delta wave. WPW is typically managed with medications, catheter ablation, or surgery. Although primarily caused by anatomical anomalies, emerging research suggests genetic factors, including ion channel mutations, may contribute to the condition. The KCNJ2 gene encodes an inward-rectifier potassium channel critical for cardiac excitability. Mutations in KCNJ2 are linked to Andersen-Tawil syndrome, a disorder featuring arrhythmias and muscle weakness, raising questions about its role in WPW. This study investigates whether …

An Analysis Of Htt Involvement In Huntington’S Disease, Elaine Vanterpool, Micah Andrews

Student Posters

Huntington's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of striatal neurons. These striatal neurons are essential in cognition, motor function, decision-making, motivation, reinforcement, and reward perception. Affected individuals may show symptoms such as isolation, lack of motivation, depression, mood swings, and personality changes. This study’s purpose is to analyze and highlight the variants of the HTT gene in the pathogenesis of Huntington’s disease.

An Analysis Of Dnajc13 Variants Associated With Parkinson’S Disease, Elaine Vanterpool, Rhadames M. Batista-Mendez

Student Posters

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor impairments such as tremors, rigidity, and postural instability. Affecting millions worldwide, PD has been linked to both genetic and environmental factors. This study aims to identify and assess the pathogenicity of DNAJC13 variants associated with Parkinson's disease.

An Analysis Of Dguok Variants Associated With Mitochondrial Dna Depletion Syndrome, Elaine Vanterpool, Ethan Harris

Student Posters

Mitochondrial DNA Depletion Syndrome(MDDS) is a clinically heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive mitochondrial disorders that reduces the number of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the affected cells. This disease is characterized by the disruption of hepatocytes, skeletal muscle, and cerebral function. This study's purpose is to identify and assess the pathogenicity of DGUOK variants associated with MDDS.

Analysis Of Dmd Variants Associated With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Elaine Vanterpool, K’Sia Byass

Student Posters

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is an X-linked recessive disorder that causes muscle weakness. This disease is characterized by frequent falls, difficulty walking, running, jumping, or scoliosis. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy 1 in every 5000 boys worldwide causes a gene tic mutation that prevents the production of dystrophin. This study aims to identify and assess the pathogenicity of DMD variants associated with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Genetic mutations responsible for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy have been reported. Studies regarding DMD and its specific role in causing Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy have been reported to be accurate and effective. X-linked inheritance patterns are applied to this disease's …

Investigating Alk, Phox2b, And Brca2 Gene In Relation To Neuroblastoma, Elaine Vanterpool, Joshua Henry

Student Posters

One of the biggest mysteries of cancer today is Neuroblastoma. Neuroblastomas are malignancies originating from the early nerve cells of the sympathetic nervous system, often known as neuroblasts. Neuroblasts can occur anywhere throughout the sympathetic nervous system. About one-third of infants are diagnosed with neuroblastoma by the time they turn one year old and the disease frequently starts in infancy. By the age of five, almost 75% have a diagnosis. Neuroblastomas are present in some newborns, but they are not identified until later, when the child or infant starts exhibiting symptoms. Adult cases of NB are quite rare. The majority …

Novel Infection By Mucor Hiemalis Kills Caenorhabditis Hosts Through Intestinal Perforation, Jay Ni

West Chester University Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Final Projects

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a popular model system to investigate cell biology and host-pathogen interactions. Presently, C. elegans is studied as a natural host of intracellular pathogens such as microsporidia and Orsay virus along with extracellular bacterial and fungal pathogens. The use of C. elegans as a model in host-pathogen research is limited by the number of naturally occurring pathogens to the organism. Through a sampling project to identify new pathogens of C. elegans, we identified the fungus Mucor hiemalis as a pathogen of Caenorhabditis species. We observed the fungus in the intestinal lumen of wild-caught …

Silver Nanoparticles And Vanillin Can Inhibit Collagenase Activities Of Serratia Marcescens, Elaine Vanterpool

Student Posters

Serratia marcescens is a gram-negative, disease-causing agent that belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family. This rod-shaped microbe causes many infectious diseases such as urinary and respiratory infections, wound infections, and peritonitis, which can result in fatal bacteremia. Protease is a virulence factor of S. marcescens that enhances its pathogenicity by breaking down proteins via cleavage of peptide bonds. The purpose of this research is to identify testing agents that reduce the protease mediated pathogenicity of S. marcescens

An Analysis Of Diabetes Associated With Appl1 Variants D94n And R46w, Elaine Vanterpool, Gaielle Price

Student Posters

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic illness with high blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. Over time, this condition can cause major harm to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Around 830 million people in the world with diabetes reside in low- and middle-income environments (World Health Organization). This study aims to identify and assess the pathogenicity of APPL1 variants associated with diabetes.

Implications Of Pik3ca On Breast And Ovarian Cancer, Elaine Vanterpool, Kaylani Krigger

Student Posters

Breast and ovarian cancer are two of the most prevalent diseases affecting women. Ovarian cancer is a disease defined by the presence of tumors in the ovaries. Breast cancer is the uncontrollable cell growth of breast tissue leading to tumor formation. BRCA 1/2, PALB2, TP53, and PTEN are common gene mutations found present in breast and ovarian cancer. The PIK3CA gene mutation is less frequent, however, its mutations are almost exclusively tied to breast and ovarian cancer. Forty percent (40%) of breast cancers and thirty percent (30%) of ovarian cancers have a mutation in the PIK3CA/AKT signaling pathway (Chen et …

Improving Biocompatibility And Structural Integrity Of Decellularized Biomaterials, Elaine Vanterpool

Student Posters

Tissue engineering is a revolutionary approach to regenerative medicine. Within the field of tissue engineering, biomaterials such as the great saphenous vein or synthetic materials such as PET, are used in tissue generation for grafts and wound healing in many other uses. This is promising and has the potential to save many lives, but many glaring issues prevent the use of these scaffolds in a clinical setting. Some of these include body rejection, lack of hemocompatibility, and weak structural integrity.

The Role Of Nkx2-5 Variants Associated With Congenital Heart Disease, Elaine Vanterpool, Jayda Russell

Student Posters

About 1% of live births worldwide are affected by congenital heart disease (CHD), a group of structural heart defects that exist from birth. Finding and evaluating the effects of NKX2-5 variations linked to CHD is the goal of this study. From basic heart defects like atrial septal defects (ASD) to more intricate malformations, congenital heart disease (CHD) encompasses a variety of structural heart abnormalities. Its development is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. NKX2-5 is a protein coding gene that encodes a home box- containing a transcription factor. This gene plays a role in the early development of the …