IUBMB Journal Highlights | July 2026

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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!

* Most Viewed & Most Cited in 2026.

Call to Action for Peer Reviewers

Wiley and the IUBMB are looking for referees to review manuscripts for the journals. If you are interested in acting as a peer reviewer for any of the IUBMB titles, please get in touch with the relevant Editor directly to advise them of your interest, and they would be happy to consider you for future articles:

  • To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for IUBMB Life, please click here.

  • To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for BioFactors, please click here.
  • To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry,
    please click here.
  • To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, please click here.

To learn more about being a peer reviewer for a journal, Wiley publishes a number of resources online which you can find here.

IUBMB Life
New Issue: Volume 78, Issue 7

IUBMB Life_vol 77_ issue 1

Issue Highlight (Subscription)

ALKBH4 Promotes Osteogenesis via Epigenetic Regulation of BMP2-Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Cervical Spine OPLL

H. Qiu, Y. Lin, X. Wang, L. Chen, X. Chen, and F. Feng, “ALKBH4 Promotes Osteogenesis via Epigenetic Regulation of BMP2-Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Cervical Spine OPLL,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 7 (2026): e70121.

DNA N6-methyladenine (6 mA) has recently been recognized as a novel epigenetic modification, with ALKBH4 identified as a specific demethylase. However, the role of ALKBH4 and DNA 6 mA in the pathogenesis of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) remains unclear. Tissue samples from OPLL patients and normal posterior longitudinal ligaments were collected, and ligament fibroblastic cells (LFCs) were isolated from OPLL tissues using primary culture. These findings demonstrate that ALKBH4 regulates OPLL progression by modulating BMP2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and by promoting BMP2 transcription through site-specific demethylation in human OPLL tissues and primary LFCs. ALKBH4 may therefore represent a promising therapeutic target for the management of OPLL.

Non-Telomeric Role of RAP1 in Facilitating NF-κB Activation and Driving Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression

R. Liu, N. Fu, S. Li, and T. Liu, “Non-Telomeric Role of RAP1 in Facilitating NF-κB Activation and Driving Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 7 (2026): e70123.

RAP1 (TERF2IP) is a component of the shelterin complex that protects telomeric DNA and preserves chromosome stability. In addition to its telomeric function, accumulating evidence indicates that mammalian RAP1 also exerts multiple extra-telomeric functions. Notably, RAP1 has been reported to regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway and to function as a transcriptional regulator, suggesting potential roles in tumorigenesis. In this study, we found that RAP1 expression was significantly upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Collectively, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for RAP1 in promoting HCC progression through activation of NF-κB signaling and identify the RAP1/NF-κB axis as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

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SPECIAL ISSUES OPEN FOR SUBMISSION

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 pnaraya3@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 52, Issue 4

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

Alpinia zerumbet-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Protect Against UVB-Induced Photoaging by Enhancing Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Skin Barrier Function

M.-R. Xu, H.-C. Wang, M.-S. Lee, and S.-Y. Wang, “Alpinia zerumbet-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Protect Against UVB-Induced Photoaging by Enhancing Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Skin Barrier Function,” BioFactors 52, no. 4 (2026): e70134.

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a major cause of skin photoaging by oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and barrier disruption. Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) have emerged as promising bioactive nanocarriers, but their roles in mitochondrial regulation and skin barrier homeostasis remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of extracellular vesicles derived from Alpinia zerumbet leaves (AZEVs) against UVB-induced photoaging in HaCaT keratinocytes. The results indicated that AZEVs exhibited typical extracellular vesicle characteristics, with an average size of 150 nm and a negative surface charge. These findings highlight AZEVs as a promising natural nanoplatform for anti-photoaging and skin repair applications.

Integrative Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Tumor-Suppressive and Immunoregulatory Roles of SEMA5B in Prostate Cancer

Z. Fan, Y. Lou, X. Zhou, et al., “Integrative Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Tumor-Suppressive and Immunoregulatory Roles of SEMA5B in Prostate Cancer,” BioFactors 52, no. 4 (2026): e70133.

SEMA5B plays an important role in the maintenance of neural development and is highly environment dependent in tumorigenesis. The roles of SEMA5B in prostate cancer remain underexplored. This study investigates SEMA5B’s functions in prostate cancer, revealing its role as a tumor suppressor transcriptionally regulated by androgen receptor and uncovering novel biomarkers and potential immunotherapeutic mechanisms.

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CALL FOR PAPERS

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 pnaraya3@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 73, Issue 3

Issue Highlights (Open Access)

5-Methylcytosine Analysis of miRNAs in Minimal Change Disease

H. Zeng, D. Li, Y. Li, et al. “5-Methylcytosine Analysis of miRNAs in Minimal Change Disease.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry 73, no. 3 (2026): 1137– 1150.

Minimal change disease (MCD) is a glomerular disorder, which is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children. Additionally, the prevalence of MCD in adults has been increasing in recent years. During protein synthesis, noncoding RNAs can be regulated through a variety of modifications, which helps preserve biological diversity and complexity. This study aims to investigate the role of m5C-modified miRNAs in MCD, with the goal of identifying promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with this condition. Our findings revealed a substantial number of differentially modified m5C miRNAs in patients with MCD, predominantly exhibiting downregulation of modification

Bacterial Pigments as Potential Antitumor Agents Against Gastrointestinal Cancers: A Comprehensive Systematic Review

R. Vergara, R. F. S. Pereira, C. C. C. R. de Carvalho, J. Prados, C. Melguizo, and R. Ortiz, “Bacterial Pigments as Potential Antitumor Agents Against Gastrointestinal Cancers: A Comprehensive Systematic Review.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry 73, no. 3 (2026): 1626– 1646.

Gastrointestinal cancers (GICs) constitute one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite currently available therapeutic strategies, new approaches and procedures are needed for their prevention and treatment. In this context, bacterial pigments are compounds with diverse biological activities, including anticancer properties. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the in vitro antitumor activity of pigments derived from bacteria against GICs. In conclusion, the great ability of bacteria to produce pigments provides a potentially valuable source of novel candidate compounds for cancer therapy, but further studies in this field will be necessary to prove their value as antitumor agents.

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CALL FOR PAPERS

Newly Launched Editor’s Choices: Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry

Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry is excited to launch its Editor’s Choices collection, featuring impactful research chosen by the journal’s editor

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education
New Issue: Volume 54, Issue 4

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Issue Highlights (Open Access)

Click Before You Pipette: Building Foundational Pipetting Skills and Confidence With an Interactive Prelaboratory Simulation

M. Costabile and B. Loveys, “Click Before You Pipette: Building Foundational Pipetting Skills and Confidence With an Interactive Prelaboratory Simulation,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education 54, no. 4 (2026): 377–385.

Correctly setting and reading a manual air displacement micropipette is an essential yet challenging skill for life-science students. The incorrect delivery of volumes affects both experimental outcomes and data interpretation, potentially reducing student confidence in the laboratory. To address this issue, we developed and evaluated an interactive simulation using Articulate Storyline. Our novel approach isolated and addressed the critical cognitive task of reading a micropipette dial from the physical skill of using the tool. This simulation is an ideal preparatory tool within a blended learning framework, significantly improving student confidence and accuracy. By mastering the cognitive prerequisite in a safe, virtual environment, students are better prepared for effective hands-on practice in a face-to-face setting.

Evaluation of DeepSeek-Generated Biochemistry Clinical Cases for Teaching Purpose

A. Vázquez-Salazar, “An Idea to Explore: From How to Why: Using Evolutionary Biochemistry to Inspire Biochemistry Education,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education 54, no. 3 (2026): 264–270.

Traditional biochemistry instruction often emphasizes mechanistic detail, that is, how molecules and pathways function, without equally addressing why they have their present forms. By integrating concepts from molecular evolution, origins-of-life research, and historical biochemistry, instructors can connect isolated facts into coherent stories of adaptation, innovation, and contingency across deep time. This teaching perspective argues that embedding the why into the how promotes deeper engagement, improves retention, and encourages interdisciplinary thinking. Practical strategies are proposed for incorporating evolutionary framing into existing curricula without sacrificing core content coverage.

A CURE for Microbiology Experiment: Isolation and Characterization of Antimicrobial-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria From Fermented Sichuan Pickle Against Pathogenic Bacteria

L. Wang, Z. Yu, “A CURE for Microbiology Experiment: Isolation and Characterization of Antimicrobial-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria From Fermented Sichuan Pickle Against Pathogenic Bacteria.” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education 54, no. 4 (2026): 408–415.

Traditional microbiology experimental teaching methodology, often based on rigid “cookbook” experiment plans, fails to meet the growing need to cultivate skilled and innovative individuals. Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) provide a solution by integrating research-based learning into the curriculum, offering an opportunity to improve the “hard” and “soft” skills for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students. In this study, a CURE was incorporated into the microbiology experiment curriculum focusing on the isolation and characterization of antimicrobial-producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from fermented Sichuan pickles. The CURE was divided into four key sections: (i) designing an experimental plan, (ii) isolation of LAB, (iii) evaluating the antibacterial effects and antibacterial active substances of LAB, and (iv) identifying LAB species and completing the experimental report. Through a tutor observation of the experiment process and a student questionnaire survey, the study demonstrated that CURE-based microbiology experiments significantly improved students’ laboratory skills and microbiological-related experimental operation ability and nurtured their scientific thinking. This approach enhances students’ preparedness for future career success and cultivates the growth of a well-rounded, skilled person in STEM disciplines.

Click Before You Pipette: Building Foundational Pipetting Skills and Confidence With an Interactive Prelaboratory Simulation

M. Costabile, B. Loveys, “Click Before You Pipette: Building Foundational Pipetting Skills and Confidence With an Interactive Prelaboratory Simulation,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education 54, no. 4 (2026): 377-385.

Correctly setting and reading a manual air displacement micropipette is an essential yet challenging skill for life-science students. The incorrect delivery of volumes affects both experimental outcomes and data interpretation, potentially reducing student confidence in the laboratory. To address this issue, we developed and evaluated an interactive simulation using Articulate Storyline. Our novel approach isolated and addressed the critical cognitive task of reading a micropipette dial from the physical skill of using the tool. This intervention offers a uniquely scalable and cost-effective solution compared to the use of physical micropipettes. Existing training often focuses on the physical action, leaving a gap for a scalable digital tool that allows students to first master the cognitive challenge of reading the dial. Using a prepost mixed methods design, we measured student perceptions of the approach and changes in student performance across confidence, unit conversion, and micropipette dial reading accuracy. Students at two independent universities showed significant improvements in self-rated confidence and accuracy in reading micropipette scales after using the simulation. Student feedback was highly positive regarding the benefits of the simulation in learning these skills and enhancing their self-efficacy. This simulation is an ideal preparatory tool within a blended learning framework, significantly improving student confidence and accuracy. By mastering the cognitive prerequisite in a safe, virtual environment, students are better prepared for effective hands-on practice in a face-to-face setting.

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CALL FOR PAPERS

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, Hungary, Finland, Sweden, and many other countries and regions. A comprehensive list of our funder agreements can be found here.

Submit your research to the IUBMB Journals today.

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Molecular Aspects of Medicine

Molecular Aspects of Medicine

Volume 109 (2026) 101476
Advancing precision medicine in pancreatic cancer using novel biomarkers and clinical targets

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest cancers, with limited treatment options and few patients benefiting from currently available targeted therapies. A recent review published on Molecular Aspects of Medicine, discussed how emerging biomarkers, liquid biopsy, multi-omics approaches, patient-derived models, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the future of pancreatic cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.

Authors highlighted the importance of integrating tumor biology with the microenvironment and systemic factors to develop truly personalized therapeutic strategies and improve patient outcomes.

I believe this paper serve as a useful resource for researchers and clinicians working toward more effective precision oncology approaches for pancreatic cancer.


*Stay in touch https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16907015/

Aspects of Molecular Medicine

Aspects of Molecular Medicine LOW RES for overprint placement

Volume 7 (June 2026) 100103
Virome remodeling rewires epigenetic and metabolic pathways linked to infection-associated colorectal cancer risk

Botle Precious Damane et al.

This recent study published in Aspects of Molecular Medicine explores how changes in the gut virome may contribute to colorectal cancer risk through alterations in metabolic and epigenetic pathways. Damane and colleagues investigated South African adults with HIV infection, helminth infection, HIV–helminth coinfection or colorectal cancer, alongside uninfected controls.

Using shotgun metagenomic sequencing, the researchers examined an often-overlooked component of the intestinal microbiome: its viral community. Their findings suggest that infection-associated changes in the gut virome may interact with host molecular pathways involved in carcinogenesis.

The study brings together microbiome research, infectious disease, epigenetics and cancer biology while drawing attention to the increasing burden of colorectal cancer in sub-Saharan Africa. It illustrates the importance of studying molecular disease mechanisms in diverse populations and provides new directions for biomarker development and cancer prevention research.