Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
BioChem
Special Issues
Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition
share announcement

Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition

A special issue of BioChem (ISSN 2673-6411).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 2282

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Buyong Ma

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
Interests: computational chemistry and biology; computational immunology; protein-protein interaction; protein aggregation diseases; neurodegenerative disease; Alzheimer’s disease; cancer and inflammation; antigen
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Manuel Aureliano

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT), Campus de Gambelas, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
2. CCMAR, Campus de Gambelas, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
Interests: metals in molecular sciences; decavanadate biochemistry; polyoxometalates (POMs) interactions with proteins; POMs applications in environment and health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As the Associate Editor-in-Chief of the esteemed journal BioChem (ISSN 2673-6411), I am excited to announce the launch of an inaugural Special Issue entitled "Feature Papers in BioChem, 1st Edition". This Special Issue aims to showcase exceptional research in the diverse and interconnected fields of molecular biology, cell biology, structural biology, nucleic acid biology, chemical biology, synthetic biology, disease biology, biophysics, metallomics (or inorganic biochemistry), and theoretical biochemistry. As an international and interdisciplinary open access journal, BioChem is dedicated to providing a platform for the publication of high-quality reviews, research articles, communications, and letters that contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

At BioChem, our primary objective is to encourage scientists to present their experimental and theoretical research in meticulous detail. We believe that the comprehensive reporting of research methodologies, results, and interpretations is crucial for advancing scientific research and enabling reproducibility. By emphasizing the importance of detailed reporting, we aim to foster a culture of transparency and open science within the scientific community.

To ensure the publication of exceptional research, all submitted papers will undergo a rigorous evaluation process. Our team of knowledgeable Editors will conduct an initial assessment to determine the suitability of submissions for the Special Issue. Following this, the selected papers will be subjected to a thorough and unbiased peer-review process, performed by experts in the respective fields. This rigorous peer-review process aims to maintain the highest standards of scientific integrity and ensure that only significant and impactful research is published in BioChem.

By launching this Special Issue, we endeavor to provide a platform for researchers to disseminate their groundbreaking discoveries and innovative methodologies. This Special Issue will serve as a catalyst for scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts from various disciplines. It will enable scientists to stay updated on the latest advancements in biochemistry and related fields while also inspiring future investigations.

As an international open access journal, BioChem ensures that published research is freely accessible to a global audience. This accessibility facilitates widespread dissemination, allowing researchers, educators, students, and policymakers to benefit from the latest findings and advancements in biochemistry. Moreover, the journal's interdisciplinary nature promotes the cross-pollination of ideas and encourages the development of novel approaches and solutions to scientific challenges.

In conclusion, this Special Issue, entitled "Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition" represents an exciting opportunity for researchers to contribute to scientific literature in the fields of molecular biology, cell biology, structural biology, nucleic acid biology, chemical biology, synthetic biology, disease biology, biophysics, and theoretical biochemistry. By emphasizing comprehensive reporting and rigorous peer review, BioChem ensures the publication of impactful and high-quality research. We invite scientists from around the world to submit their work to this Special Issue and join us in advancing the field biochemistry and related disciplines.

Prof. Dr. Buyong Ma
Prof. Dr. Manuel Aureliano
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. BioChem is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • molecular biology
  • molecular basis of biological processes
  • structural biology
  • gene and protein structure and expression
  • folding of biomolecules
  • biochemistry
  • metallomics (or inorganic biochemistry) chemical biology
  • synthetic biology
  • protein biosynthesis
  • membrane function and post-translational modification
  • disease biology
  • drugs and pharmaceutics
  • cell biology
  • chemical, physical, mechanistic, and/or structural basis of biological or cell function
  • cells
  • nucleic acid biology
  • theoretical biochemistry
  • advances in biochemical, biophysical, and molecular methodologies, as well as imaging techniques and data analysis

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (4 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Review

29 pages, 712 KiB  
Review
Single-Cell Transcriptomics in Spinal Cord Studies: Progress and Perspectives
by Maiweilan Maihemuti, Mst. Afsana Mimi, S. M. Sohag and Md. Mahmudul Hasan
BioChem 2025, 5(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/biochem5020016 - 10 Jun 2025
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has revolutionized neuroscience by enabling the analysis of cellular heterogeneity and dynamic molecular processes at the single-cell resolution. In spinal cord research, scRNA-seq provides critical insights into cell type diversity, developmental trajectories, and pathological mechanisms. This review summarizes recent [...] Read more.
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has revolutionized neuroscience by enabling the analysis of cellular heterogeneity and dynamic molecular processes at the single-cell resolution. In spinal cord research, scRNA-seq provides critical insights into cell type diversity, developmental trajectories, and pathological mechanisms. This review summarizes recent progress in the application of scRNA-seq to spinal cord development, injury, and neurodegenerative diseases and discusses the current challenges and future directions. Relevant studies focusing on the key applications of scRNA-seq, including advances in spatial transcriptomics and multi-omics integration, were retrieved from PubMed and the Web of Science. scRNA-seq has enabled the identification of distinct spinal cord cell populations and revealed the gene regulatory networks driving development. Injury models have revealed the temporal dynamics of immune and glial responses, alongside potential regenerative processes. In neurodegenerative conditions, scRNA-seq highlights cell-specific vulnerabilities and molecular changes. The integration of spatial transcriptomics and computational tools, such as machine learning, has further improved the resolution of spinal cord biology. However, challenges remain in terms of data complexity, sample acquisition, and clinical translation. Single-cell transcriptomics is a powerful approach for understanding spinal cord biology. Its integration with emerging technologies will advance both basic research and clinical applications, supporting personalized and regenerative therapy. Addressing these technical and analytical barriers is essential to fully realize the potential of scRNA-seq in spinal cord science. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 225 KiB  
Review
The Mini-TRH Test, Dopamine Transmission, and Schizophrenia Symptoms
by Johan Spoov
BioChem 2025, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/biochem5020015 - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
Studies in animals and humans suggested that the tonic dopamine inhibition of prolactin release may be estimated by submaximal prolactin stimulation by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), the mini-TRH test. Because patients with schizophrenia may be more vulnerable to stress-induced elevations of prolactin, great care [...] Read more.
Studies in animals and humans suggested that the tonic dopamine inhibition of prolactin release may be estimated by submaximal prolactin stimulation by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), the mini-TRH test. Because patients with schizophrenia may be more vulnerable to stress-induced elevations of prolactin, great care was taken to avoid stress-induced increases in prolactin, including applying local anaesthesia before blood extraction in our psychotic patients. Basal prolactin levels were in the reference range in all psychotic patients studied by us and were not higher in male patients than in normal men. Results of the mini-TRH test suggested that in acute patients with non-affective psychoses, everyday memory problems, non-paranoid delusions, and first-rank symptoms, but not other Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS) positive symptoms, could correlate with decreasing dopamine transmission in lactotrophs. In acute patients with first-episode schizophrenia, increasing negative disorganisation symptoms might correlate with increasing dopamine transmission. In first-episode patients, a hypersensitivity of the TRH response was detected, which could indicate that variability in the basal prolactin levels may confound the interpretation of the mini-TRH response. To avoid that, a smaller dose of TRH was recommended in first-episode patients. Studies using other estimates of basal dopamine release suggested that striatal dopamine transmission reflected delusions and hallucinations but not other Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) positive symptoms. Including a wide range of symptoms in the PANSS positive scale may reduce its specificity for assessing basal dopamine transmission, although the scale remains useful for tracking treatment response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition)
23 pages, 1546 KiB  
Review
From Microbes to Molecules: Synthetic Biology Approaches for Advanced Materials Design
by Roshini Ramachandran, Frank Macabenta, Grace Bettencourt and Shulammite Feng
BioChem 2025, 5(2), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/biochem5020012 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 263
Abstract
Traditional materials synthesis often involves energy-intensive processes with significant waste generation and limited control over material properties. This review examines synthetic biology as a sustainable alternative for designing advanced materials with enhanced precision and versatility. It explores microbial biomineralization, detailing how microorganisms influence [...] Read more.
Traditional materials synthesis often involves energy-intensive processes with significant waste generation and limited control over material properties. This review examines synthetic biology as a sustainable alternative for designing advanced materials with enhanced precision and versatility. It explores microbial biomineralization, detailing how microorganisms influence the formation of mineral deposits and participate in key biogeochemical cycles. It highlights recent research advancements in using a wide variety of microorganisms for the synthesis of inorganic materials such as metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, quantum dots, magnetic nanoparticles, and thin films. The review also discusses the production and properties of various biopolymers. Important factors that can influence the size, morphology, and uniformity of these biomaterials are covered in detail. Emphasis is placed on advancements utilizing synthetic biology tools, such as protein engineering and genome editing, and recent research for creating smart and responsive materials. Considering the present limitations of synthetic biology, challenges related to scale-up, yield, and uniformity are discussed, and suggestions for future research are detailed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 740 KiB  
Review
Advances in Personalized Cancer Vaccine Development: AI Applications from Neoantigen Discovery to mRNA Formulation
by Hyunseung Kong
BioChem 2025, 5(2), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/biochem5020005 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1573
Abstract
Personalized cancer vaccines are a promising immunotherapy targeting patient-specific tumor neoantigens, yet their design and efficacy remain challenging. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) provide powerful tools to enhance multiple stages of cancer vaccine development. This review systematically evaluates AI applications in personalized [...] Read more.
Personalized cancer vaccines are a promising immunotherapy targeting patient-specific tumor neoantigens, yet their design and efficacy remain challenging. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) provide powerful tools to enhance multiple stages of cancer vaccine development. This review systematically evaluates AI applications in personalized cancer vaccine research over the past five years, focusing on four key areas: neoantigen discovery, codon optimization, untranslated region (UTR) sequence generation, and mRNA vaccine design. We examine AI model architectures (e.g., neural networks), datasets (from omics to high-throughput assays), and outcomes in improving vaccine development. In neoantigen discovery, machine learning and deep learning models integrate peptide–MHC binding, antigen processing, and T cell receptor recognition to enhance immunogenic neoantigen identification. For sequence optimization, deep learning models for codon and UTR design improve protein expression and mRNA stability beyond traditional methods. AI-driven strategies also optimize mRNA vaccine constructs and formulations, including secondary structures and nanoparticle delivery systems. We discuss how these AI approaches converge to streamline effective personalized vaccine development, while addressing challenges such as data scarcity, tumor heterogeneity, and model interpretability. By leveraging AI innovations, the future of personalized cancer immunotherapy may see unprecedented improvements in both design efficiency and clinical effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in BioChem, 2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-4
Back to TopTop