REVIEW ARTICLE | Oct. 6, 2025
Structural and Biochemical Insights into CRISPR-Cas Nucleases for Therapeutic Genome Editing
Mehnaz Bibi, Salman Hassan, Tayyaba Noor, Maira Waheed, Amina Bilal, Mudasir Ali, Ummul Baneen, Ruqayyah Moiz, Mubarra Batool
Page no 362-375 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.001
CRISPR-Cas nucleases have changed the world of genetic editing because they provides specific, programmable and scalable editing possibilities. These RNA-guided nucleases were first described in the adaptive immune systems of prokaryotes, but have since enjoyed a second incarnation in eukaryotes, where they edit pathogenic mutations, control transcription, and even alter epigenetic structure. The field of structural biology has shown distinctly varied architecture among Cas nucleases, such as Cas9, Cas12, Cas13, and newly studied variants, and has shown the conserved catalytic cores, RNA guide recognition elements, and ever-changing structural dynamics of the target and the controls that modulate its cleavage effectiveness. Biochemical analyses have shed light on the mechanisms of interrogating DNA, forming R-loops, allosteric activation, and collateral activity, guiding the engineering approaches to improve fidelity and minimize off-target effects. Although substantial progress has been made, there remains the challenge of achieving single-nucleotide precision and reducing genotoxicity, as well as improving delivery efficiency to a wide variety of cell and tissue types. Advanced innovations in high-fidelity variants, base, prime editing, and Anti-CRISPR controllers have broadened their application and improved their safety profiles. While clinical trials for monogenic disorders like sickle cell disease and Leber congenital amaurosis have noted early successes, their long-term efficacy, immunogenicity, and ethical issues remain significant obstacles. This review integrates biochemistry and structural biology of CRISPR-Cas nucleases and focuses on mechanisms of their function and engineering that are central to the CRISPR-Cas Rational Design. The application of structural biology in conjunction with functional genomics and translational medicine aids in a refined and well-integrated understanding of the mechanisms guiding the evolution of CRISPR therapeutics. This review analyses the role of atomic resolution structures in guiding protein engineering, the role of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters in determining editing outcomes, and the role of evolutionary divergence in informing the selection of nucleases for specific purposes. Emerging trends, which include the use of compact CAS enzymes for viral delivery, RNA-targeting systems for the transient modulation of gene expression, and synthetic regulatory modules for the systems engineering of CRISPR, promise to augment the clinical reach of CRISPR therapeutics. These variances in application outline the junction of editing outcomes and the evolvable Technomic of CRISPR.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 6, 2025
Toxicity and Histopathological Effects of Lipia alba Essential Oil on Late Instar Larvae of Anopheles gambias SL (Diptera: Culicidae)
Fawrou SEYE, El Hadji Malick FALL, Mame Awa Ndeye SY, Diouma KANE, Mady NDIAYE
Page no 376-383 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.002
In vector control, plant extracts are increasingly provided numerous sources of phytochemicals utilized on mosquito control. Essential oils such as Lippia alba have shown their effectiveness against insects. Our present study aims to show the toxicity of L. alba essential oil on Anopheles gambiae larvae and to demonstrate the histological damage. The larvae were exposed to serial concentrations from 200 ppm to 1000 ppm. Mortalities were recorded after 24 hours exposure to determine lethal doses LD50 and LD90. Larvae treated with LD90 were fixed at 6h, 12h, and 24h to show the process of histological degradation. After 24 hours exposure, the results revealed that mortalities were 6.66%, 5%, 61.33%, 91.66%, and 91.66% for respectively 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 ppm doses. Fisher's test revealed that there was no significant difference in mortality between the control and low doses (200 ppm and 400 ppm), (p = 1). On the other hand, mortalities were significant between the control (0 ppm) and doses ≥ 600 ppm (p = 0.0006). The lethal doses LD50 and LD90 determined using the Muller and Tinter formula were 554.4 ppm and 788.2 ppm, respectively. The histological examnition revealed that, the product acts between 6h and 24h through with progressive destruction of the nervous system, muscle tissue, adipose tissue, and digestive tract. It appears that L. alba essential oil constitutes a product with a larvicidal effect and could be evaluated in a natural breeding sites against vector mosquitoes.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 9, 2025
Multifunctional Nanoparticle-Enhanced Thin-Film Ferroelectrics and Ferromagnets for High-Efficiency Energy Storage and Advanced Nanoelectronic Applications
Sohaib Ali Sajid, Sourav Kumar Biswas, Muhammad Rashid, Md. Maruf Shaikh, Md. Utshob Khan Rafin, Iftikhar Ahmad Khan, Ghulam Subhani, Muhammad Kabeer, Nasir Abbas
Page no 384-407 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.003
Thin-film ferroelectrics and ferromagnets face performance limits. High leakage, low endurance, and weak scalability restrict real use. This study explores multifunctional nanoparticle integration into thin-film structures. Nanoparticles enhance charge storage, stability, and coupling. Ferroelectric response is boosted with improved polarization retention. Ferromagnetic layers show strong anisotropy and thermal durability. The hybrid films deliver high energy density with low loss. Enhanced dielectric constant and suppressed fatigue confirm stability. Coupled ferroelectric–ferromagnetic interaction allows efficient multistate operation. This dual behavior supports high-performance capacitors and logic devices. Nanoparticle doping creates uniform grain size and controlled interfaces. Such design reduces defects, leakage, and switching noise. Tailored interfaces enable flexible and miniaturized nanoelectronic circuits. The approach also ensures high scalability for large-area integration. Results show efficiency suitable for next-generation energy storage. The multifunctional films also support spintronic and memory devices. Unique novelty lies in engineered nanoparticle synergy inside thin films. This synergy brings multifunctional energy and electronic benefits. The work introduces a new platform for advanced materials. It bridges energy storage and nanoelectronics through a single system. The strategy moves beyond conventional doping or layering. It provides adaptive and high-efficiency solutions for modern technologies. Future scope lies in quantum devices, neuromorphic hardware, and IoT. Overall, the research sets a pathway for multifunctional, scalable, and energy-smart nanoelectronic materials.
REVIEW ARTICLE | Oct. 10, 2025
Mothers' and Healthcare Providers' Attitudes Towards the Use of Cabbage Leaves and Fenugreek in During Lactation: A Scope Review
Ola Muneer Alyamani
Page no 408-413 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.004
Background: The World Health Organization advocates for proper integration and regulation of evidence-based Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) into healthcare systems nationally in response to the rapid growth of using TCIM worldwide (WHO, 2017). Fenugreek seeds are one of the most popular galactagogues for lactating mothers (El Sakka et al., 2014). Additionally, cabbage leaf compresses have shown several benefits in reducing breast engorgement (Thomas et al., 2017). Understanding the attitudes of both mothers and healthcare providers towards the use of TCIM during lactation is essential to promote informed decision-making regarding practices(Sim et al., 2014). Objective: This review aimed to explore the attitudes of lactating mothers and healthcare providers towards cabbage leaves and fenugreek, to investigate healthcare providers' perspectives on these remedies, and to identify potential benefits and risks associated with the use of cabbage leaves and fenugreek during lactation. Method: The literature review employed a systematic approach to gather relevant articles. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar were systematically searched using specific keywords related to the topic of interest. Result: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The review of literature provides significant insights into the traditional use of cabbage leaves and fenugreek in lactation management, elucidating their perceived benefits and effectiveness in alleviating breast engorgement among lactating mothers. Conclusion: The synthesis of literature underscores the significance of integrating traditional practices and natural remedies, such as cabbage leaves and fenugreek, into lactation management. While these interventions have shown promising results in relieving breast engorgement and enhancing milk production, further research is warranted to elucidate their mechanisms of action, optimal dosages, and potential side effects. Collaborative endeavors among healthcare providers, researchers, and lactating mothers are crucial to facilitating informed decision-making and fostering the comprehensive overall health of lactating mothers and their infants.
REVIEW ARTICLE | Oct. 10, 2025
Integrative Zoology in the 21st Century: Unifying Genomics, eDNA, Morphology, Behavior, Biologging, Bioacoustics, Remote Sensing, and AI for Global Biodiversity Discovery and Conservation
Muhammad Abbas, Abuzar Mehdi Khan, Mirza Muhammad Saad Ullah Khan, Irfan Ishaque, Adan Irshad, Muhammad Umer Sundhu, Syed Haroon Haidar, Maria Arshad, Mubashir Farooq, Sehar Rafique
Page no 414-437 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.005
Descriptive morphology and taxonomy That is because zoology is rapidly evolving to be a multi-modal science that operates on the organismic to molecular scale (i.e., it extends beyond the level of the ecosystem). To address that global crisis in biodiversity, scientists have combined genomics and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis with morphometrics and imagery, behavior studies through biologging, trail cameras, and vocal monitoring, and landscape studies using remote-sensing tools. These varied approaches are now joined together by artificial intelligence and open data platforms and are opening new avenues to real-time biodiversity discovery and predictive conservation. However, questions also remain: the knowledge gap in taxonomy, bias in occurrence data, incomplete validation of models using either eDNA or acoustics data, and the lack of standards addressing blending multi-modal data. Moral imperatives such as animal welfare in tracking, fairness in international partnerships and data sovereignty are still burning. This paper presents an outline of Integrative Zoology and presents case studies of how it is transforming our basic understanding of the cryptic species, how it tracks movement and decline, and how it can inform conservation analysis. By integrating the traditional study of zoology with the newest of technologies, the discipline can transform into a science of awareness of biodiversity, infrastructure that is ready to directly assist the conservation policy and resilience of the planet.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 18, 2025
Cross-disciplinary Insights into Enzyme-Based Diagnostics: Linked Chemistry, Microbiology, and Laboratory Medicine
Syeda Laraib Fatima Bukhari, Mehwish Rafiq, Bilal Zubair, Zeshan Mehmood, Misbah Rasheed, Arooj Fatima, Rida Shams
Page no 438-446 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.006
Background: Enzyme-based diagnostics remain a cornerstone of laboratory medicine, yet advancements in chemistry and microbiology offer new opportunities to optimize their sensitivity, specificity, and application. This study explores the integration of enzymology, microbial profiling, and clinical diagnostics to improve enzyme-driven detection methods. Objective: To experimentally develop, optimize, and validate enzyme-based diagnostic assays by linking chemical substrate modification, microbiological enzyme activity detection, and clinical biomarker evaluation. Methodology: An experimental study was conducted in which HRP, ALP, and β-galactosidase enzymes were chemically optimized and tested using spectrophotometric and fluorometric assays. Nanozyme analogs were also synthesized. Thirty clinical bacterial isolates were evaluated using enzyme activity tests and compared with CRISPR-Cas13 assays. Fifty clinical blood/serum samples were analyzed for ALT, AST, and CRP levels using in-house developed enzyme-based kits, and results were validated against automated laboratory systems. Results: Enzyme assays showed strong catalytic efficiency (e.g., Km = 0.23 mM for HRP-TMB). Microbial identification achieved 93.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity, outperforming some molecular methods. Clinical validation demonstrated high correlation (r = 0.91, p < 0.001) with standard lab results, and ROC analysis showed AUC values above 0.91 for all biomarkers. Nanozymes exhibited enhanced thermal stability. Conclusion: Cross-disciplinary enzyme-based diagnostics are effective, low-cost, and scalable for clinical and microbiological applications. The integration of chemical, microbial, and clinical methods results in robust diagnostic tools suitable for both advanced laboratories and low-resource settings. Future developments should focus on digital integration and multiplexing for broader healthcare impact.
REVIEW ARTICLE | Oct. 18, 2025
Food Systems, Climate Change, and Nutritional Security in the 21st Century
Rana Fahad Ahmed, Duaa Waqar, Muneeb Ali, Shiraz Rafaqat, Md Al-Amin, Abdullah Al Jabir, Huda Zahra, Waseem Abbas, Syed Shumaim Ali
Page no 447-455 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.007
The global food system of the 21st century is at a serious crossroads, growing more stressed by the growing climate change and unable to provide adequate and fair nutritional security of the worldwide population. Although the global food production has grown since the Green Revolution, this agricultural growth has been achieved at the expense of environmental degradation, diets of homogeneity, and aggravation of micronutrient deficiencies due to increasing atmospheric CO2, extreme weather and agroclimatic changes. The traditional measures of food security which are narrowly pegged on the sufficiency of calories overlooks the ever-increasing plight of the hidden hunger and diet-related noncommunicable diseases, which are both rising in the stress of climatic conditions. The review is critical because it is practicalized how climate adaptation plans and nutritional outcomes have become structurally disengaged by showing how techno-optimistic solutions have a tendency to ignore equity, cultural foodways, and metabolic well-being. We build an integrative strategy that places nutritional security as more of a downstream delivery as a design need of climate-resilient food systems. Based on the new evidence of the biogeochemistry, digital agrifood governance, marine micronutrient ecology, and circular metabolism, and epigenetic nutrition, we recognize five transformative pathways that redistribute justice, biological complexity, and intergenerational wellbeing. Such a policy move of decoupling the quantity of food and its quality is challenged in this analysis and it suggests a paradigm shift to food systems, which are capable of feeding people and the planet during a period of climatic uncertainty.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 25, 2025
Next-Generation Polymer and Functional Materials for High-Efficiency Solar Energy Conversion and Integrated Storage Devices
Javed Karim, Muhammad Faisal Memon, Husnain Saleem Raza, Muhammad Usman, Rabia Akram, Muhammad Rashid, Mahnoor Awan, Shaheen Irfan, Dawood Ali
Page no 456-475 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.008
The increasing global demand for sustainable energy has intensified the need for next-generation materials capable of efficient solar energy harvesting and storage. Here, we present a novel class of polymer-based functional materials designed for simultaneous high-efficiency solar energy conversion and integrated energy storage. By engineering the molecular architecture and incorporating multi-functional dopants, these materials exhibit enhanced light absorption, charge carrier mobility, and electrochemical stability under real-world operating conditions. The unique design allows photogenerated charges to be directly stored within the material matrix, effectively combining photovoltaic and supercapacitor functionalities into a single device. Experimental studies demonstrate a record-breaking energy conversion efficiency of 22.7% and stable energy retention over 1000 charge–discharge cycles. Advanced characterization techniques, including ultrafast spectroscopy and in situ electron microscopy, reveal the synergistic interactions between polymer chains and functional additives, which are crucial for maximizing performance. This work introduces a paradigm shift in the design of multifunctional polymeric materials, enabling scalable, lightweight, and flexible devices suitable for next-generation wearable electronics, autonomous sensors, and off-grid energy solutions. The proposed strategy not only addresses the critical challenges in conventional solar and storage systems but also opens new avenues for the rational design of integrated energy devices with unprecedented performance metrics. The presented research underscores the transformative potential of functional polymers in achieving sustainable and compact energy solutions, providing a roadmap for future innovation in solar-driven energy technologies.
REVIEW ARTICLE | Oct. 27, 2025
Bacterial Cellulose–Silver Nanoparticle Composites for Antimicrobial Wound Dressing: A Review of Recent Advances from 2020 to 2025
Ishrak Khalil Ibraheem, Ashwak Waheeb Shaker
Page no 476-495 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.009
Chronic wounds, notably diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure injuries, impose significant clinical and financial challenges worldwide due to persistent microbial colonization and poor healing. Bacterial cellulose (BC), produced by Komagataeibacter xylinus, is recognized for its purity, mechanical strength, and water retention, but lacks antimicrobial properties. To enhance its effectiveness, functionalization with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is suggested, as they provide antimicrobial and antibiofilm benefits. However, their use is restricted by issues of cytotoxicity and stability. This review comprehensively draws together progress from 2020 to 2025 on BC–AgNP composites as futuristic antimicrobial wound dressings. Major segments are dedicated to the discussion of synthesis methods (in situ, ex situ, electrochemical, and green methods), structure–property relationships and characterization techniques, juxtaposed with studies, in vitro, in vivo, and an emerging clinical scope of antimicrobial activity, cytocompatibility, and wound-healing efficacy. Recent advancements in hybrid composites with bioactive molecules, graphene oxide, or plant-derived reductants have been noted for their potential to reduce toxicity and enhance healing. Key challenges for clinical translation include issues with reproducibility, scalability, regulatory approval, and long-term safety. Future directions to address these obstacles involve eco-friendly synthesis methods, controlled silver release, multifunctional design, smart sensor integration, and large-scale trials. As a complete unit, BC–AgNP composites can be regarded as one group of composites which display a large potential in being developed as safe, efficient, and sustainable wound dressings for the treatment of chronic wounds.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 28, 2025
Physiological Response of Common Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) to Salinity Stress in Hydroponics
Muhammad Anas, Anosha Abdullah, Muhammad Taimur, Ijaz Ahmad, Shahid Khan, Mian Ahmad Raza
Page no 496-502 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.010
This research aimed to assess common bean genotypes for genetic diversity, heritability, and genetic advancement under varying concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) in hydroponic systems. Eight common bean genotypes were grown and evaluated in a two-factor completely randomized design with three replications in three NaCl concentrations (0 mM, 150 mM, 300 mM) at the Molecular lab of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, during 2022. Analysis showed substantial differences among eight genotypes for all traits across three NaCl levels. Mean ranges under 0, 150, and 300 mM NaCl concentration 10.93 to 20.87 cm, 8.71 to 21.43 cm, and 11.64 to 21.58 cm for hypocotyl length, and from 13.02 to 23.63, 10.51 to 15.9, and 6.96 to 12.99 for chlorophyll content, and from 32.33 to 46.67 cm, 34.00 to 57.33 cm and 33.50 to 45.67 cm for plant height, and from 10.73 to 15.30 cm, and 11.10 to 15.30 cm and 10.00 to 15.70 cm for epicotyl length. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.62 to 0.93 for various traits of common bean genotypes in all three levels of NaCl. The highest heritability was recorded for hypocotyl length (0.93) in 150mM NaCl concentrations, while the lowest heritability was recorded for plant height (0.62) in 300mM NaCl and also for hypocotyl length in 0mM 0.62 NaCl concentrations. The highest genetic advance value was estimated for plant height (8.26) in all NaCl concentrations, i.e., 4.10 in 0 mM NaCl, 8.26 in 150 mM NaCl, and 3.96 in 300 mM NaCl, respectively. Based on the current experiment, genotypes SW-32, GL299, and GL-287 appeared to be superior, with the highest values for plant height, chlorophyll content, and hypocotyl length. These results are recommended for future breeding programs aimed at improving salt tolerance in common bean genotypes.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Oct. 30, 2025
Assessment of Yield Potential of Newly Developed Cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum L.) Advance Lines Under Normal Sowing Field Conditions and Their DNA Fingerprinting
Hafiza Shafaq Ishaq, Masood Ahmad, Muhammad Saeed
Page no 503-508 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i09.011
Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and the primary source of natural fiber worldwide. Despite its significance, cotton productivity remains suboptimal due to a narrow genetic base, biotic and abiotic stresses, and declining soil fertility. Breeding programs therefore focus on developing new, high-yielding, and stress-tolerant advance lines that can outperform existing commercial cultivars. In this study, field evaluation and molecular profiling were conducted on a set of advance lines derived from FH-490 and compared with standard commercial checks (e.g., FH-942, SLH-2010, CIM-70). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications under normal sowing conditions. Agronomic traits including plant height, monopodial and sympodial branches, number of bolls, boll weight, and seed cotton yield were recorded alongside fiber quality and physiological parameters. Significant variation was observed among the genotypes, with L-1 and L-4 recording the highest yields, while FH-942 and SLH-2010 performed poorly. Molecular analysis using SSR markers revealed polymorphism that differentiated the advance lines, with SSR4-170 notably associated with tolerance under limited water conditions. The integration of field performance with DNA fingerprinting allowed a clearer understanding of both genetic diversity and adaptive potential. This study identifies promising lines (L-1, L-2, L-4, L-5) with superior yield and fiber quality, suggesting their suitability for inclusion in breeding pipelines. Findings emphasize the importance of combining morphological evaluation with molecular tools to accelerate the development of resilient cotton varieties capable of sustaining production under evolving climatic and resource constraints.