Publications by authors named "David K Mburu"
Background: Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are a superfamily of multifunctional dimeric proteins existing in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. They are involved in the detoxification of both endogenous and exogenous electrophiles, including insecticides. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of GST genes in insects are poorly understood.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFTo develop an effective biological agent to control Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, three endophytic Bacillus spp. strains with high antagonistic activity were isolated from maize seed and characterized. In vitro assays revealed that the Bacillus endophytes could produce volatile organic compounds (VOC) that reduced sclerotial production and inhibited mycelial growth of S.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- Cytochrome P450 and UDP-glucosyltransferase (UGT) are crucial enzymes for metabolizing various substances, including insecticides in the pest Spodoptera exigua, although their exact detoxification mechanisms are not well understood.
- This study identified 68 P450 and 32 UGT genes, revealing expansions in certain gene families and showing that these genes exhibit specific expression patterns in different tissues.
- Insecticide exposure resulted in significant changes in gene expression, with most insecticides causing co-up-regulation of several P450 and UGT genes, while abamectin led to more down-regulation, indicating a distinct detoxification response for this compound.
Effects of methimazole on Drosophila glucolipid metabolism in vitro and in vivo.
Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol
June 2017
Article Synopsis
- Methimazole (MMI) is used to treat hyperthyroidism but can cause liver damage and dysfunction due to overdose and poor detoxification of its metabolites.
- In a study using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster), it was found that feeding MMI significantly decreased lifespan and altered glucolipid metabolism, with decreases in triglycerides and increases in glycogen.
- The research revealed that certain genes related to metabolic balance were down-regulated after MMI treatment, and it also reduced lipid droplet content in cells, which may inform future therapeutic approaches to manage MMI-related complications.