Journal of Advances in Molecular Biology

8

Authors: Irena Cosic, Drasko Cosic, Katarina Lazar

It is documented that the large number of mutations within BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes are related to development of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, as well as prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer. However, it is not known which mutations are the most critical for formation of these cancers. We have analysed human BRCA-1, BRCA-2 and related RAD51 protein functions and functional mutations using our previously developed Resonant Recognition Model (RRM). The RRM is capable to analyse protein biological functions/interactions, predict bioactive mutations and design de novo bioactive peptides with desired biological function. The most critical mutations for formation of cancer in human BRCA-1, BRCA-2 and RAD51 proteins have been predicted and compared with experimental results. The predicted mutations within 3D structures have been presented and discussed. Such findings can lead to development of much simpler and more relevant tests for genetic predisposition to breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers.

10

Authors: Sochinwechi Nwosisi, Dilip Nandwani, Ramasamy Ravi

Bioactive compounds in foods have gained popularity worldwide for beneficial effects on human wellbeing. Opportunities for a bioactive food or component, for diet, begin with identifying a link between a bioactive food or ingredient and health or to a disease. The role of bio-actives in health has been established with many research findings. At present bioactive components that promote weight management and lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease have received the most attention. Sweetpotato contains various types of bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds and carotenoids. Phenolic compounds that are found in sweetpotato include phenolic acids and anthocyanins, which are predominant in purple-flesh sweetpotato. Carotenoids, such as α-carotene, β-carotene, and β-5 cryptoxanthin are predominant in orange-fleshed sweetpotato. Sweetpotato is rich in dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins and bioactive compounds such as beta-carotene, phenolic acids and anthocyanins which provide sweetpotato with distinctive flesh colors like cream, yellow, orange and purple.