Using novel approaches to conjugate peptides of Macrotermes bellicosus and Curcuma longa for targeted intervention of irritable bowl diseases caused by tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 15 (TNFSF15)

This study presents an in-silico approach to develop targeted therapies for Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) by focusing on TNFSF15. Peptides derived from Macrotermes bellicosus and Curcuma longa were selected, conjugated with the 50S ribosomal protein L7/L12 adjuvant, and analyzed for immunogenic potential. Gene expression analysis showed differential TNFSF15 expression in gastrointestinal tissues. Functional enrichment revealed its role in immune regulation and cytokine signaling. Of the 20 peptides identified, 8 showed high antigenicity and 4 were allergenic. Structural modeling and docking predicted stable interactions with TNFSF15 (binding energy: –9.4 kJ/mol), supported by molecular dynamics. Immune simulations indicated robust IgM and IgG responses. These findings suggest that plant and insect derived peptides may offer promising therapeutic candidates for TNFSF15-associated IBD.