Harpreet Kaur - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Harpreet Kaur

Langmuir, Aug 17, 2010

Lysozyme (Lys) and cytochrome c (Cyc,c) proteins were used as mild reducing and stabilizing agent... more Lysozyme (Lys) and cytochrome c (Cyc,c) proteins were used as mild reducing and stabilizing agents to synthesize gold nanoparticles (NPs) at precisely 40 and 80 degrees C. All reactions were monitored simultaneously by UV-visible measurements to determine changes in the nature of the protein during the course of reaction. The synthesis of Au NPs caused the simultaneous denaturation of protein due to the formation of bioconjugate NPs, and the denaturation temperature decreased with the number of NPs. Lys entrapped NPs in a typical gel state, and Cyc,c carried them on well-defined micelles at 80 degrees C or in the form of long fibrils or strands at 40 degrees C. The shape, size, and arrangement of bioconjugate NPs were characterized by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy measurements. Purified bioconjugate NPs were further used in zein protein film formation. The resulting films were characterized by photophysical and mechanical measurements. The induction of bioconjugate NPs made protein films isotropic and relatively more brittle (with a greater effect for Cyc,c than for Lys conjugate NPs) than in their absence and was considered to be well suited for biomedical applications.

ABSTRACT In late embryogenesis, the water content of living cell is reduced tremendously that lea... more ABSTRACT In late embryogenesis, the water content of living cell is reduced tremendously that leads to a state of dehydration and thus, might impose severe irreparable damage to cellular and macromolecular structures. However, the mature orthodox seeds can withstand severe desiccation due to role of osmoprotectants viz., reducing sugars, prolines, glycinebetaines or Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins. These operate on the virtue of intrinsic molecular mechanisms that alleviate multiple abiotic stresses in plants such as protein desiccation, membrane degradation, salt stress and cold and chilling stress. The LEA proteins are a group of versatile, adaptive, hydrophilic proteins considerably defined as ‘molecular shields’ for their anti-stress properties attributable to partial or complete structural randomness. On the basis of their amino acid composition and sequencing, LEA proteins have been clubbed into seven groups that are further sub divided into a number of protein sub families. Out of these, Group 2 LEA proteins called the ‘Dehydrins’ are of prime importance in the plant kingdom. The latent and unique stress remediating characteristics of this class of proteins has been further enhanced by transgenic studies, wherein the target LEA genes have been identified, sequenced to understand their molecular role in plants. Further investigations into the behavior of LEA proteins and mode of their regulation in stressed plants will facilitate in elucidating the function of LEA proteins. The present chapter reviews the versatility and role of LEA proteins in plant stress protection.

Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aug 1, 2009

To study maternal and perinatal outcome in congenital heart disease (CHD) and to compare outcome ... more To study maternal and perinatal outcome in congenital heart disease (CHD) and to compare outcome between cyanotic and acyanotic CHD. Method: A retrospective analysis of 196 cases of CHD was undertaken, and maternal and perinatal outcome of pregnancy was compared in cyanotic and acyanotic cases and between surgically corrected and uncorrected cases. Results: Maternal and perinatal outcome was better in the acyanotic group. Maternal complications included higher incidence of cardiac complications in cyanotic group, (33.3% vs 3.4% in acyanotic group, P = 0.001), abruption (12.5% vs nil) and pregnancyinduced hypertension (16.6% vs 5.2%). Rate of prematurity (25% vs 11.6%), intrauterine growth retardation (50% vs 15.1%, P = 0.003) and abortion (4.1% vs 2.1%) was higher in cyanotic group. Mean gestational age at delivery was better in corrected group, 37.13 vs 34.93 weeks in uncorrected group. There was no case of infective endocarditis. There were four cases of maternal mortality in cyanotic group, two of which were in women with Eisenmenger syndrome. In acyanotic heart disease one case died undelivered and one died on first postoperative day. Conclusion: Maternal and perinatal outcome is better in acyanotic CHD compared to cyanotic CHD. Surgical correction of cardiac lesions prior to conception improves outcome.

Journal of Stress Physiology Biochemistry, 2013

The effects of Jasmonic acid (JA) on sugar accumulation and protein content in 12-days old Brassi... more The effects of Jasmonic acid (JA) on sugar accumulation and protein content in 12-days old Brassica napus L. seedlings were studied. The seeds pre-treated with different concentrations of jasmonic acid were germinated in Petriplates supplied with various concentrations of salt stress (NaCl). The contents of total chlorophyll, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total carbohydrates and total protein content of 12-days old seedlings were analysed. It was observed that JA reduced the toxicity of salt stress on seedling growth by influencing the chlorophyll content and protein content. Pre-treatment of jasmonic acid was found to be significantly effective in increasing the contents of sugars.

Bulletin of Pure Applied Sciences Botany, 2012

International Journal of Nursing Care, 2013

Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, May 1, 2013

ABSTRACT

International Journal of Clinical Oncology, Feb 20, 2009

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor (GCT) is a rare tumor, and the majority (90%) are reported in the p... more Juvenile granulosa cell tumor (GCT) is a rare tumor, and the majority (90%) are reported in the prepubertal or under-30-year age group, in contrast to the adult type, which is more common in the fifth decade. On histopathological examination, juvenile GCTs are distinct from the adult type of GCT, and have a lower risk for late recurrences than the latter. Being solid tumors, they may be associated with ascites and pleural effusion (Meigs' syndrome), which resolve after surgical removal of the tumor. Tumor markers for GCT are still investigational (inhibin) and of not much use in making a preoperative diagnosis, unlike in the case of germ cell tumors. In most of the reports about the initial surgical management of GCT, retroperitoneal lymph node sampling was not performed, and it was not done in the patient we report here. However, lymph node sampling is advocated for complete staging of these tumors, as a significant number of recurrences are reported in the retroperitoneum, as well as in incompletely staged patients. In the present patient, because of the association of Meigs' syndrome, a preoperative diagnosis of benign tumors such as fibroma/thecoma was also considered. We report this rare tumor with an aim of reviewing the diagnosis and management from the reported literature.

The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, Jun 1, 2004

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to analyse the morphology, clinical presentation and predisposi... more ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to analyse the morphology, clinical presentation and predisposing factors for chronic hepatitis C infection. Clinical presentation of 220 patients who presented with hepatitis C virus infection over five years period (January 1996 to December 2000) were recorded. Liver biopsy specimens from 80 adult patients with chronic hepatitis C virus were evaluated using a semiquantitative scoring system. The possible predisposing risk factors for infection in these patients were recorded. Grading of chronic hepatitis C was minimal/mild in 51 (64%) cases. Seven (8.7%) had high-grade necroinflammatory activity. Fibrosis was absent in 22(27.5%), mild in 29(36.25%), moderate in 11 (13.75%) and 18(22.5%) had evidence of cirrhosis. No significant correlation was found between the level of transaminases and degree of fibrosis or grade of inflammation. More number of patients with history of alcohol consumption had moderate/severe grade of necroinflammatory activity and cirrhosis as compared to those not taking alcohol at all. Potential predisposing factors were use of unsterile syringes, previous surgery and tattooing in multivariate analysis. Nearly two-thirds of patients of chronic hepatitis C where liver biopsy was possible have minimal/mild disease at time of diagnosis; 22% have cirrhosis. Though disease severity can only be assessed by liver histology, liver biopsy may not be possible in a sizeable proportion of patients as they present with advanced liver disease. Most of the patients do not have specific symptoms. Reusable needles/syringes is the commonest potential risk factor.

Indian Journal of Public Health Research Development, 2013

Oncotarget, Dec 26, 2014

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is among the most fatal of all pediatric brain tumors. A... more Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is among the most fatal of all pediatric brain tumors. Aside from loss of function mutations in the SMARCB1 (BAF47/INI1/ SNF5) chromatin remodeling gene, little is known of other molecular drivers of AT/ RT. LIN28A and LIN28B are stem cell factors that regulate thousands of RNAs and are expressed in aggressive cancers. We identified high-levels of LIN28A and LIN28B in AT/RT primary tumors and cell lines, with corresponding low levels of the LIN28regulated microRNAs of the let-7 family. Knockdown of LIN28A by lentiviral shRNA in the AT/RT cell lines CHLA-06-ATRT and BT37 inhibited growth, cell proliferation and colony formation and induced apoptosis. Suppression of LIN28A in orthotopic xenograft models led to a more than doubling of median survival compared to empty vector controls (48 vs 115 days). LIN28A knockdown led to increased expression of let-7b and let-7g microRNAs and a down-regulation of KRAS mRNA. AT/RT primary tumors expressed increased mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway activity, and the MEK inhibitor selumetinib (AZD6244) decreased AT/RT growth and increased apoptosis. These data implicate LIN28/RAS/MAP kinase as key drivers of AT/RT tumorigenesis and indicate that targeting this pathway may be a therapeutic option in this aggressive pediatric malignancy.

International Journal of Scientific Research, Apr 1, 2015

ABSTRACT

Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 2015

Regio- and stereoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of C-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-N-phenylnitrones (N... more Regio- and stereoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of C-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-N-phenylnitrones (N) with different mono-substituted, disubstituted and cyclic dipolarophiles were carried out to obtain substituted N-phenyl-3'-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-isoxazolidines (1-40). All the synthesized compounds were assayed for their in-vitro antibacterial activity and display significant inhibitory potential; in particular, compound 32 exhibited good inhibitory activity against S.typhi 1 & S.typhi 2 with MIC value of 1.56 μg/ml and also shows good potential against MRSA with MIC 3.12 μg/ml. Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) investigations with stepwise multiple linear regression analysis and docking simulation studies have been performed for validation of the observed antibacterial potential of the investigated compounds for determination of the most important parameters regulating antibacterial activities. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Langmuir, Aug 17, 2010

Lysozyme (Lys) and cytochrome c (Cyc,c) proteins were used as mild reducing and stabilizing agent... more Lysozyme (Lys) and cytochrome c (Cyc,c) proteins were used as mild reducing and stabilizing agents to synthesize gold nanoparticles (NPs) at precisely 40 and 80 degrees C. All reactions were monitored simultaneously by UV-visible measurements to determine changes in the nature of the protein during the course of reaction. The synthesis of Au NPs caused the simultaneous denaturation of protein due to the formation of bioconjugate NPs, and the denaturation temperature decreased with the number of NPs. Lys entrapped NPs in a typical gel state, and Cyc,c carried them on well-defined micelles at 80 degrees C or in the form of long fibrils or strands at 40 degrees C. The shape, size, and arrangement of bioconjugate NPs were characterized by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy measurements. Purified bioconjugate NPs were further used in zein protein film formation. The resulting films were characterized by photophysical and mechanical measurements. The induction of bioconjugate NPs made protein films isotropic and relatively more brittle (with a greater effect for Cyc,c than for Lys conjugate NPs) than in their absence and was considered to be well suited for biomedical applications.

ABSTRACT In late embryogenesis, the water content of living cell is reduced tremendously that lea... more ABSTRACT In late embryogenesis, the water content of living cell is reduced tremendously that leads to a state of dehydration and thus, might impose severe irreparable damage to cellular and macromolecular structures. However, the mature orthodox seeds can withstand severe desiccation due to role of osmoprotectants viz., reducing sugars, prolines, glycinebetaines or Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins. These operate on the virtue of intrinsic molecular mechanisms that alleviate multiple abiotic stresses in plants such as protein desiccation, membrane degradation, salt stress and cold and chilling stress. The LEA proteins are a group of versatile, adaptive, hydrophilic proteins considerably defined as ‘molecular shields’ for their anti-stress properties attributable to partial or complete structural randomness. On the basis of their amino acid composition and sequencing, LEA proteins have been clubbed into seven groups that are further sub divided into a number of protein sub families. Out of these, Group 2 LEA proteins called the ‘Dehydrins’ are of prime importance in the plant kingdom. The latent and unique stress remediating characteristics of this class of proteins has been further enhanced by transgenic studies, wherein the target LEA genes have been identified, sequenced to understand their molecular role in plants. Further investigations into the behavior of LEA proteins and mode of their regulation in stressed plants will facilitate in elucidating the function of LEA proteins. The present chapter reviews the versatility and role of LEA proteins in plant stress protection.

Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aug 1, 2009

To study maternal and perinatal outcome in congenital heart disease (CHD) and to compare outcome ... more To study maternal and perinatal outcome in congenital heart disease (CHD) and to compare outcome between cyanotic and acyanotic CHD. Method: A retrospective analysis of 196 cases of CHD was undertaken, and maternal and perinatal outcome of pregnancy was compared in cyanotic and acyanotic cases and between surgically corrected and uncorrected cases. Results: Maternal and perinatal outcome was better in the acyanotic group. Maternal complications included higher incidence of cardiac complications in cyanotic group, (33.3% vs 3.4% in acyanotic group, P = 0.001), abruption (12.5% vs nil) and pregnancyinduced hypertension (16.6% vs 5.2%). Rate of prematurity (25% vs 11.6%), intrauterine growth retardation (50% vs 15.1%, P = 0.003) and abortion (4.1% vs 2.1%) was higher in cyanotic group. Mean gestational age at delivery was better in corrected group, 37.13 vs 34.93 weeks in uncorrected group. There was no case of infective endocarditis. There were four cases of maternal mortality in cyanotic group, two of which were in women with Eisenmenger syndrome. In acyanotic heart disease one case died undelivered and one died on first postoperative day. Conclusion: Maternal and perinatal outcome is better in acyanotic CHD compared to cyanotic CHD. Surgical correction of cardiac lesions prior to conception improves outcome.

Journal of Stress Physiology Biochemistry, 2013

The effects of Jasmonic acid (JA) on sugar accumulation and protein content in 12-days old Brassi... more The effects of Jasmonic acid (JA) on sugar accumulation and protein content in 12-days old Brassica napus L. seedlings were studied. The seeds pre-treated with different concentrations of jasmonic acid were germinated in Petriplates supplied with various concentrations of salt stress (NaCl). The contents of total chlorophyll, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total carbohydrates and total protein content of 12-days old seedlings were analysed. It was observed that JA reduced the toxicity of salt stress on seedling growth by influencing the chlorophyll content and protein content. Pre-treatment of jasmonic acid was found to be significantly effective in increasing the contents of sugars.

Bulletin of Pure Applied Sciences Botany, 2012

International Journal of Nursing Care, 2013

Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, May 1, 2013

ABSTRACT

International Journal of Clinical Oncology, Feb 20, 2009

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor (GCT) is a rare tumor, and the majority (90%) are reported in the p... more Juvenile granulosa cell tumor (GCT) is a rare tumor, and the majority (90%) are reported in the prepubertal or under-30-year age group, in contrast to the adult type, which is more common in the fifth decade. On histopathological examination, juvenile GCTs are distinct from the adult type of GCT, and have a lower risk for late recurrences than the latter. Being solid tumors, they may be associated with ascites and pleural effusion (Meigs' syndrome), which resolve after surgical removal of the tumor. Tumor markers for GCT are still investigational (inhibin) and of not much use in making a preoperative diagnosis, unlike in the case of germ cell tumors. In most of the reports about the initial surgical management of GCT, retroperitoneal lymph node sampling was not performed, and it was not done in the patient we report here. However, lymph node sampling is advocated for complete staging of these tumors, as a significant number of recurrences are reported in the retroperitoneum, as well as in incompletely staged patients. In the present patient, because of the association of Meigs' syndrome, a preoperative diagnosis of benign tumors such as fibroma/thecoma was also considered. We report this rare tumor with an aim of reviewing the diagnosis and management from the reported literature.

The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, Jun 1, 2004

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to analyse the morphology, clinical presentation and predisposi... more ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to analyse the morphology, clinical presentation and predisposing factors for chronic hepatitis C infection. Clinical presentation of 220 patients who presented with hepatitis C virus infection over five years period (January 1996 to December 2000) were recorded. Liver biopsy specimens from 80 adult patients with chronic hepatitis C virus were evaluated using a semiquantitative scoring system. The possible predisposing risk factors for infection in these patients were recorded. Grading of chronic hepatitis C was minimal/mild in 51 (64%) cases. Seven (8.7%) had high-grade necroinflammatory activity. Fibrosis was absent in 22(27.5%), mild in 29(36.25%), moderate in 11 (13.75%) and 18(22.5%) had evidence of cirrhosis. No significant correlation was found between the level of transaminases and degree of fibrosis or grade of inflammation. More number of patients with history of alcohol consumption had moderate/severe grade of necroinflammatory activity and cirrhosis as compared to those not taking alcohol at all. Potential predisposing factors were use of unsterile syringes, previous surgery and tattooing in multivariate analysis. Nearly two-thirds of patients of chronic hepatitis C where liver biopsy was possible have minimal/mild disease at time of diagnosis; 22% have cirrhosis. Though disease severity can only be assessed by liver histology, liver biopsy may not be possible in a sizeable proportion of patients as they present with advanced liver disease. Most of the patients do not have specific symptoms. Reusable needles/syringes is the commonest potential risk factor.

Indian Journal of Public Health Research Development, 2013

Oncotarget, Dec 26, 2014

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is among the most fatal of all pediatric brain tumors. A... more Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is among the most fatal of all pediatric brain tumors. Aside from loss of function mutations in the SMARCB1 (BAF47/INI1/ SNF5) chromatin remodeling gene, little is known of other molecular drivers of AT/ RT. LIN28A and LIN28B are stem cell factors that regulate thousands of RNAs and are expressed in aggressive cancers. We identified high-levels of LIN28A and LIN28B in AT/RT primary tumors and cell lines, with corresponding low levels of the LIN28regulated microRNAs of the let-7 family. Knockdown of LIN28A by lentiviral shRNA in the AT/RT cell lines CHLA-06-ATRT and BT37 inhibited growth, cell proliferation and colony formation and induced apoptosis. Suppression of LIN28A in orthotopic xenograft models led to a more than doubling of median survival compared to empty vector controls (48 vs 115 days). LIN28A knockdown led to increased expression of let-7b and let-7g microRNAs and a down-regulation of KRAS mRNA. AT/RT primary tumors expressed increased mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway activity, and the MEK inhibitor selumetinib (AZD6244) decreased AT/RT growth and increased apoptosis. These data implicate LIN28/RAS/MAP kinase as key drivers of AT/RT tumorigenesis and indicate that targeting this pathway may be a therapeutic option in this aggressive pediatric malignancy.

International Journal of Scientific Research, Apr 1, 2015

ABSTRACT

Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 2015

Regio- and stereoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of C-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-N-phenylnitrones (N... more Regio- and stereoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of C-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-N-phenylnitrones (N) with different mono-substituted, disubstituted and cyclic dipolarophiles were carried out to obtain substituted N-phenyl-3'-(chrom-4-one-3-yl)-isoxazolidines (1-40). All the synthesized compounds were assayed for their in-vitro antibacterial activity and display significant inhibitory potential; in particular, compound 32 exhibited good inhibitory activity against S.typhi 1 & S.typhi 2 with MIC value of 1.56 μg/ml and also shows good potential against MRSA with MIC 3.12 μg/ml. Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) investigations with stepwise multiple linear regression analysis and docking simulation studies have been performed for validation of the observed antibacterial potential of the investigated compounds for determination of the most important parameters regulating antibacterial activities. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.