IUBMB Journal Highlights

We are excited to highlight new research from the IUBMB Journals: IUBMB Life, BioFactors, Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education.

Please also consider submitting your own research to the IUBMB Journals. You can expect to work with distinguished Editorial Board members and benefit from worldwide circulation and readership through our publishing partnership with Wiley. For more information about the journal and submissions, feel free to peruse the IUBMB journals website.

For now, please enjoy highlights of our recent content. Happy reading!
• Disease causing gene mutations
• Human Genetic Disorders
• Therapeutic strategies targeting disease-associated mutations

IUBMB Life
New Issue: Volume 76, Issue 10

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

Functional and biochemical characterisation of remote homologues of type IV pili proteins PilN and PilO in Helicobacter pylori

Bonny SQ, Zhou X, Khan MF, Rahman MM, Xin Y, Vankadari N, et al. IUBMB Life. 2024; 76(10): 780–787.

Helicobacter pylori encodes homologues of PilM, PilN and PilO from bacteria with Type IV pili, where these proteins form a pilus alignment complex. Inactivation of pilO changes H. pylori motility in semi-solid media, suggesting a link to the chemosensory pathways or flagellar motor. Here, we showed that mutation of the pilO or pilN gene in H. pylori strain SS1 reduced the mean linear swimming speed in liquid media, implicating PilO and PilN in the function, or regulation of, the flagellar motor. We also demonstrated that the soluble variants of H. pylori PilN and PilO share common biochemical properties with their Type IV pili counterparts which suggests their adapted function in the bacterial flagellar motor may be similar to that in the Type IV pili.

Issue Highlights (Subscription Only)

The cellular localization and oncogenic or tumor suppressive effects of angiomiotin-like protein 2 in tumor and normal cells

Wang H, Li J, Yu K, Lu Y, Ma M, Li Y. IUBMB Life. 2024; 6(10): 764–779.

The Angiomotin (AMOT) family includes AMOT, AMOTL1, and AMOTL2, with AMOTL2 being expressed in endothelial, epithelial, and cancer cells. AMOTL2 localizes differently across cell types, regulating tube formation, cell polarity, and shape. In cancer, its role varies: AMOTL2 promotes tumor growth in pancreatic, breast, and colon cancers but inhibits proliferation in lung, liver, and glioblastoma. It influences cytoskeletal dynamics and modulates YAP transcription by binding to it. AMOTL2 is downregulated in some tumors but elevated in colorectal adenocarcinoma (COAD), where it drives oncogenic activity by affecting the Wnt pathway and immune cell infiltration. Further research is needed to clarify its roles in various cancers.

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SPECIAL ISSUES OPEN FOR SUBMISSION

Special Issue on from DNA to protein: molecular mechanisms and tailored approaches to correct genetic defects associated with human disorders
- Deadline for Submissions: 31 October 2024
Special Issue on Viruses and Cell Metabolism
- Deadline for Submissions: 30 November 2024
Special Issue on Tumor Microenvironment: Explorations and Interventions
- Deadline for Submissions: 10 December 2024
Special Issue on Discovering Novel Druggable Targets Using Integrated Omics Approaches
- Deadline for Submissions: 30 March 2025
Special Issue on Advancing Translation of Cell-Based Therapeutics in Human Disease: Integrating Specific Modes of Action and Emerging Engineering Approaches
- Deadline for Submissions: 31 March 2025

CALL FOR PAPERS – SPECIAL ISSUES PROPOSALS

IUBMB Life solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Structural Biology and Molecular Medicine and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.

Application Process

Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form available online and submit it to adaragshet@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “IUBMB – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.

A special issue proposal should include the following content:

A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue;
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue;
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors;
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles;
The estimated number of submissions;
Proposed timeline.

Please visit the journal homepage for more information.

BioFactors
New Issue: Volume 50, Issue 5

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

Vitamin D metabolism is altered during aging alone or combined with obesity in male mice

Bournot L, Payet T, Marcotorchino J, Awada M, Rouquet T, Breniere T, et al. BioFactors. 2024; 50(5): 957–966.

Aging and obesity are associated with a decrease in plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels. In the context of a growing aging population and the rising incidence of obesity, the authors hypothesized that aging process, either independently or in combination with obesity, could influence vitamin D (VD) metabolism, consequently resulting in the reduced 25(OH)D plasma concentrations. The findings of the authors support the notion that aging alone or combined with obesity, induces regulation of VD metabolism in the organs, beyond the classical reduction of epidermal VD precursor, which may contribute to the decrease in 25(OH)D levels.

Cholesterol transport and beyond: Illuminating the versatile functions of HDL apolipoproteins through structural insights and functional implications

Bhale AS, Meilhac O, d’Hellencourt CL, Vijayalakshmi MA, Venkataraman K. BioFactors. 2024; 50(4): 50(5): 922–956.

High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) play a vital role in lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health, as they are intricately involved in cholesterol transport and inflammation modulation. The proteome of HDL particles is indeed complex and distinct from other components in the bloodstream. Proteomics studies have identified nearly 285 different proteins associated with HDL; however, this review focuses more on the 15 or so traditionally named “apo” lipoproteins. Understanding the nature of all 15 apolipoproteins expands our knowledge of HDL metabolism, sheds light on their pathological implications, and paves the way for advancements in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of lipid and inflammatory-related disorders.

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CALL FOR PAPERS

Uncovering biomarkers in the tumor-immune microenvironment and analyzing their potential regulatory mechanisms

Submission deadline: Sunday, 30 March 2025

CALL FOR SPECIAL ISSUE PROPOSALS

BioFactors solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of biological factors and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.

Application Process

Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form (downloadable from the BioFactors’ homepage) and submit it to adaragshet@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “BIOF – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.

A special issue proposal should include the following content:

A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue.
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue.
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors.
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles.
The estimated number of submissions.
Proposed timeline.

Please visit the journal homepage for more information.

Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry
New Issue: Volume 71, Issue 4

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

Waste cooking oil and molasses for the sustainable production of extracellular lipase by Saitozyma flava

Donzella S, Fumagalli A, Contente ML, Molinari F, Compagno C. Biotechnol Appl Biochem. 2024; 71: 712–720.

Organic waste valorization is one of the principal goals of the circular economy. Bioprocesses offer a promising approach to achieve this goal by employing microorganisms to convert organic feedstocks into high value products through their metabolic activities. In this study, a fermentation process for yeast cultivation and extracellular lipase production was developed by utilizing food waste. Lipases are versatile enzymes that can be applied in a wide range of industrial fields, from detergent, leather, and biodiesel production to food and beverage manufacturing. The production medium was composed of molasses, a by-product of the sugar industry, which provided nutrients for yeast biomass formation. At the same time, waste cooking oil was employed to induce and enhance extracellular lipase production.

Correlation between plasma PSGL-1 and FIGO stage, tumor metastasis, and survival in epithelial ovarian cancer

Li WH, Fang C, Gao Y, Gao Y, Yan FS, Chen B, et al. Biotechnol Appl Biochem. 2024; 71: 733–740.

Plasma circulating P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) levels and its clinical correlation in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) are unknown. The study determined plasma PSGL-1 levels in EOC patients and investigated its relationship with clinicopathological factors and prognosis. Plasma PSGL-1 levels were measured using ELISA in 69 patients with EOC, 34 patients with benign ovarian cystadenoma, and 36 healthy controls. Subsequently, the relationship between PSGL-1 levels and clinicopathological characteristics of patients, as well as the prognosis of EOC patients, was examined. Additionally, the specificity and sensitivity of plasma PSGL-1 were assessed through ROC curve analysis.

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CALL FOR PAPERS

Leveraging Genomics Data in Blockchain for Medical Research Ethics

The Special Issue aims to create a dialogue on leveraging genomics data in blockchain for medical research ethics. Also, we plan to attract researchers with a diverse range of studies that explore theoretical frameworks, technological innovations, policy analyses, and case studies demonstrating practical applications and challenges.

Topics for this call for papers include but are not restricted to:

Ethical frameworks for genomic data ownership and sharing on blockchain platforms;
Technological advancements in secure and scalable blockchain systems for genomic data;
Interoperability challenges and solutions in integrating genomics with different blockchain architectures;
Regulatory landscape and policy recommendations for blockchain in genomics;
Economic models for incentivizing the sharing of genomic data on blockchain platforms;
Impact assessments of blockchain on the speed and efficacy of medical research;
Legal implications of decentralized genomic data management;
Ethical considerations in the use of smart contracts for genomic data consent management;
Comparative analyses of global initiatives employing blockchain for genomics;
Challenges and strategies for educating stakeholders about the benefits and risks of blockchain in genomics;
Future prospects of integrating artificial intelligence with blockchain and genomics for advanced medical research;
Privacy-preserving techniques for genomic data on blockchain: challenges and future directions;
Case studies of blockchain applications in enhancing privacy and consent in genomics research.

Deadline for Submissions: 1 December 2024

Guest Editors: Dr Muzammil Hussain (Lead), Pakistan; Dr Muhammad Adnan Khan, Gachon University, The Republic of Korea; Dr Kiran Adnan, Malaysia

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Emerging Techniques and Technologies in Healthcare

The purpose of the special issue is to decipher the importance of ground-breaking techniques incorporated in cellular and molecular biology and embrace AI augmented healthcare delivery system. The convergence of these scientific innovations would help translational research reach new heights in the future generation.

Topics for this call for papers include but are not restricted to:

Importance of Emerging Techniques and Technologies in Health Research
Genetics and Genomics in Healthcare Research
Application of Proteomics in Healthcare Research
Technological Advancements in Cell Biology for Health Research
Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Medicinal Practice
Machine Learning and Deep Learning in Healthcare
Molecular techniques in Disease Detection
Biochemical parameters for disease detection
Infectious Disease and Mitigation
Stem Cell Therapeutics
Ethical Concerns in Artificial Intelligence Mediated Healthcare Delivery

Deadline for Submissions: 15 May 2025

Guest Editors: Dr. Debasmita Bhattacharya, Institute of Engineering and Management, India; Dr. Dibyajit Lahiri, University of Engineering & Mangement, Kolkata, India; Assoc. Prof. Edinur Hisham Atan, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia; Prof. Mojgan Rezvani, Durham College, Canada.

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Searching for a New Editor-in-Chief for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry

The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) seeks a new Editor-in-Chief for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry. Published since 1979, Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry is dedicated to the rapid publication of discoveries in the life sciences that impact and advance biotechnology. The Editor will consider papers for publication based on their potential impact on the field, and their compatibility with journal scope. The journal seeks contributions to the fields of synthetic biology, systems biology, metabolic engineering, bioengineering, biomaterials, biosensing, and nano-biotechnology, and how they can be applied to medical and industrial biotechnology.

The successful candidate will be recognized as a leading member of the biochemistry and molecular biology community. They will have an outstanding publication record; an extensive, global network; an appreciation for the diverse fields within the journal’s scope; and will represent the diversity within the IUBMB global community.

The successful candidate will have an outstanding opportunity to further develop the journal over a maximum three 3-year terms in the role commencing July 1, 2025. They must demonstrate a clear vision for its future growth and position in the publishing landscape. The appointee will bring extensive experience in peer review and/or editorial roles, high ethical professional standards, innovation, enthusiasm, strong leadership, and organizational and communication skills to the journal.

The main functions within this role are: strategic and practical development of the journal, defining a vision for the content; defining content and commissioning papers for regular and special issues; maintaining editorial standards; providing strong and inspiring leadership to the journal’s editorial board; appointing new board members to grow the journal; promoting the journal; managing the publication, and working closely with IUBMB and the publisher (Wiley). This important leadership role will require a significant time commitment on a weekly basis and will be recompensed accordingly. Associate Editors are appointed to limited terms by the Editors-in-Chief to handle some functions, subject to approval by the IUBMB Executive Committee. The Editor-in-Chief of Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry will receive an annual honorarium and is supported by professional editorial office assistance.

Applications should include the following

A full CV, including details of peer review and/or editorial roles and the applicant’s publication record
A brief statement describing your vision for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry
A cover letter outlining your suitability for the Editor-in-Chief role
Two reference Letters

Please send any queries relating to this appointment and applications, in confidence, to: Prof. James Murphy (jamesm@wehi.edu.au), Chair of the IUBMB Publications Committee. Application deadline October 31, 2024.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education
New Issue: Volume 52, Issue 5

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

A cost-effective enzyme kinetics and inhibition model for biochemistry education and research

VanDee L, Teague A, East T, Jacinto KR, Carter M, Totty J, et al. Biochem Mol Biol Educ. 2024; 52(5): 588–598.

Enzyme kinetics and inhibition studies are crucial in biochemistry education and research. Conventional methods often require expensive equipment and reagents, potentially limiting their accessibility in limited resource settings. Our approach sought to develop a cost-effective experimental design for studying enzyme kinetics and inhibition. Lactase was chosen as a protein model and its activity was investigated by measuring glucose production from lactose hydrolysis. In the study, commercially available lactase pills were used as an enzyme source, while milk was used as a substrate. Instead of scientific equipment, glucometers were used to measure lactase activity. Enzyme kinetics were evaluated using Michaelis–Menten and Lineweaver–Burk plots. In the study, the effects of temperature, pH, and inhibitors were also investigated. The approach presented here offers a cost-effective procedure for studying enzyme kinetics and inhibition. It can act as a valuable tool for educational purposes and for preliminary research in settings with limited resources.

Enhancing teaching effectiveness in biochemistry labs: Author reflections and improvement strategies

Costabile M, Simpson B, Turkanovic J, Hughes BP. Biochem Mol Biol Educ. 2024; 52(5): 559–568.

This article details the outcome of a joint reflective approach undertaken by the authors to identify common difficulties experienced by 2nd-year undergraduate Biochemistry students in laboratory classes. Difficulties experienced in laboratories can affect the development of hand skills, an understanding of how to correctly operate laboratory equipment and the linkage between didactic content and their experimental demonstration. These difficulties covered were identified based on their common appearance across multiple cohorts and are grouped into five broad areas. The approach and resources developed to address these difficulties may help other Biochemistry educators who are facing similar experiences with their undergraduate students.

Did you know? Wiley and Jisc have signed an agreement that allows UK authors to publish Open Access in the IUBMB Journals at no cost to them.

Thanks to a partnership our publisher Wiley has signed with Jisc, certain UK institutions now have full access to journals published by Wiley, including the IUBMB Journals. Further, the partnership enables authors at participating UK institutions to publish open access at no cost to them in the IUBMB Journals. Payment of the associated Article Publication Charges (APC) would be covered via the partnership, and authors will not need to cover the APCs from their own pockets.

Wiley has also signed similar agreements with universities in Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Norway, Hungary, Finland, Sweden, and with the US-based OhioLink And VIVA. A comprehensive list of our funder agreements can be found here.