biontes
Number 2
Biontes
Science Communication Journal
Publication:
April-June 2025
Vol. 2
In this issue, we present information on health and biodiversity with various articles written by specialists in each field. You'll find information on the effects of the microbiome on our health, not only physical but also mental; studies on plants and other natural sources to discover their therapeutic effects; the fact that viruses aren't always bad; information on melanins, their uses, and much more.
With love
Biontes
Content
Vol. 2 April-June 2025
Authors
Gerardo Heredia GarcÃa
Octavio Dublán GarcÃa
Gut microbiome, a microscopic world inside you
The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem comprised of billions of microorganisms, each performing specific functions to prevent, maintain, and improve human health. These functions include the production of substances that support the immune system, as well as vitamins and neurotransmitters related to behavior and mental health. Furthermore, they aid in nutrient absorption by generating enzymes and act as an intestinal barrier against potential attacks from harmful microorganisms. Since they are essential for our overall health, maintaining a healthy balance among these microorganisms through diet is fundamental.
Author
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Alejandro Miguel Cisneros MartÃnez
Viruses and amphibians: Mortal enemies or allies?
Like any good superhero, amphibians possess extraordinary abilities and a fatal weakness. For amphibians, the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is their kryptonite, but they don't face this enemy alone. They receive help from bacteria that live on their skin and are capable of stopping or inhibiting the fungus. Furthermore, other characters with antiheroic characteristics inhabit the skin of amphibians. For example, viruses, which can play the role of villains or allies in the fight against one of their worst enemies, the Bd fungus.
Authors
Eric D. Salinas-Arellano
MarÃa de la Luz Miranda-Beltrán
Humberto L. Mendoza Figueroa
Mexican biodiversity as inspiration for the discovery of drugs of natural origin
Mexico is a megadiverse country where ecosystems, climates, soils, and oceans converge to make it a rich source of natural products. The proper exploration and utilization of these natural products through the identification of bioactive metabolites is of great interest to individuals and industry, since approximately 50% of drugs approved for human use are derived from natural products. Therefore, the study of natural products allows for the identification of novel molecules and the development of phytotherapeutic agents as alternative treatments for diseases of national and global concern.
Authors
Guillermo Gosset Lagarda
Luz MarÃa MartÃnez MejÃa
Biofactories of substantial pigments: melanins, from yellow to black
Melanins are a type of pigment with important biological functions and specific biotechnological applications. Their formation from different substrates generates shades ranging from yellow to black. One way to produce melanin in large quantities is by incorporating the melA gene from the soil bacterium Rhizobium etli into an easily cultured bacterium such as Escherichia coli, which does not naturally produce it. Cultivating this bacterium with different substrates and carbon sources enables the sustainable production of various types of melanin useful in industries such as healthcare, cosmetics, and semiconductors.
Authors
Macario MartÃnez Castillo
Montserrat Escamilla Lazcano
Nereida Montes Castro
Jesus Israel Garcia Aguiar
Mitotic catastrophe, microscopic funerals that protect our health
Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells that divide, age, and die. However, some cells can suffer damage that, if left unrepaired, can lead to the development of diseases like cancer. Fortunately, biology has developed defense mechanisms such as mitotic catastrophe, a natural process that allows us to detect and eliminate damaged cells before they multiply uncontrollably. Understanding these systems not only helps us prevent disease but also inspires holistic health strategies based on natural biological processes, reminding us that, just as in ecosystems, balance is key to life.
Authors
Juan Carlos Leyva López
Jesus Jaime Solano Noriega
Data analysis and disease detection using multi-network technology
The use of multi-network approaches for gene identification has gained traction in understanding gene associations with disease. This computational method helps identify genes involved in diseases such as cancer by integrating diverse data from omics sciences (gene genomics, protein proteomics, and metabolomics). Furthermore, the method improves the accuracy of disease-related gene prediction, thus aiding personalized medicine. Multi-network methods have broad applications in other diseases, enabling the development of more effective treatments based on individual genetic profiles and ultimately improving healthcare.
