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19 pages, 8065 KiB  
Article
Effects of Lutjanus erythropterus Protein on Depression-like Behavior and Gut Microbiota in Stressed Juvenile Mice
by Jinjin Luo, Chen Wang, Weichang Ye, Ruiyang He, Ling Huang, Zhijia Fang, Qi Deng, Mei Qiu, Lijun Sun and Ravi Gooneratne
Foods 2025, 14(2), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14020330 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Lutjanus erythropterus protein (Lep) exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, but its antidepressant activity is unknown. This study used a 44-day chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model to determine whether Lep has a beneficial effect through the gut–brain axis in 3-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. Gavaging with Lep [...] Read more.
Lutjanus erythropterus protein (Lep) exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, but its antidepressant activity is unknown. This study used a 44-day chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model to determine whether Lep has a beneficial effect through the gut–brain axis in 3-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. Gavaging with Lep solution alleviated the depression-like behavior and anxiety symptoms in CUMS growing mice. Administration of Lep decreased serum IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α levels and restored colonic mucosal damage. In addition, Lep improved the disturbance of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) secretion in the gut–brain axis. Pearson analysis revealed that gut short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs) concentration significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with mucosal damage scores and the depression-like behavior index. Lep was able to prevent the gut SCFA enrichment. Lep upregulated gut Muribaculaceae and downregulated SCFA-producing bacteria by replenishing deficient amino acid (AA) (tryptophan, alanine, aspartate, glutamate) and decreased (p < 0.01) the gene abundance of the AA metabolism pathway of SCFA-producing bacteria, thereby preventing gut SCFA enrichment and alleviating associated depression-like behavior. These findings indicate that Lep could attenuate depression in CUMS juvenile mice via the gut microbiota-SCFA–brain axis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Bioactive Compounds: Extraction, Identification and Application)
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Graphical abstract
Full article ">Figure 1
<p>Ameliorative effect of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on depression-like behavior. (<b>A</b>) Sucrose preference, (<b>B</b>) Immobility time, (<b>C</b>) Time in the central area, (<b>D</b>) Time in the open arms. Data are presented as the mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Ameliorative effects of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on inflammatory factors. (<b>A</b>) TNF-α, (<b>B</b>) IL-1β, (<b>C</b>) IL-2, (<b>D</b>) IL-6. Data are presented as the mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Effects of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on colonic mucosal morphology. Experimental groups are: (<b>A</b>) Control, (<b>B</b>) Model, (<b>C</b>) Fish oil, (<b>D</b>) Lep low dose, (<b>E</b>) Lep medium dose, (<b>F</b>) Lep high dose, (<b>G</b>) Villus height (V), Crypt depth (C), and V/C ratio of HE-stained sections of colon tissue in each group, (<b>H</b>) Colonic mucosal damage scores. Data are presented as the mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups: CON, Control group; MOD, Model group; FIS, Fish oil group; LSL, Lep low-dose group; LSM, Lep medium-dose group; LSH, Lep high-dose group. <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Feces and colon tissue short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration in mice. (<b>A</b>) Fecal SCFA, (<b>B</b>) Colon tissue SCFA, (<b>C</b>) Correlation analysis between fecal and SCFA levels, villi height (V)/crypt depth (C) ratio, and colonic injury score. Data are presented as the mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Ameliorative effect of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on hippocampal and colonic tissue, and fecal 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) concentrations. (<b>A</b>) Hippocampi, (<b>B</b>) Intestinal tissue, (<b>C</b>) Feces. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Effects of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on alpha and beta diversities of gut microbiota. (<b>A</b>) Ace index, (<b>B</b>) Chao1 index, (<b>C</b>) Shannon index, (<b>D</b>) Simpson index, (<b>E</b>) PCA analysis of gut microbiota. Data are expressed as the mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Effects of <span class="html-italic">Lutjanus erythropterus</span> protein (Lep) on genus level species composition of gut microbiota. (<b>A</b>) Histogram of species composition at the phylum level, (<b>B</b>) Histogram of species composition at the genus level, (<b>C</b>) Ratio of firmicutes and bacteroidetes between experimental groups, as well as gene abundance of: (<b>D</b>) <span class="html-italic">Muribaculaceae</span>. (<b>E</b>) <span class="html-italic">Bacteroides</span>. (<b>F</b>) <span class="html-italic">Prevotellaceae_UCG-001</span>. (<b>G</b>) <span class="html-italic">Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group</span>. (<b>H</b>) <span class="html-italic">Parabacteroides</span>. (<b>I</b>) <span class="html-italic">Lachnospiraceae</span>. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
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<p>Prediction based on KEGG metabolic pathway and amino acid metabolism in gut microbiota. (<b>A</b>) KEGG-predictive pathways, (<b>B</b>) ko00401 D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, (<b>C</b>) ko00290 valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis, (<b>D</b>) ko00250 alanine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid biosynthesis, (<b>E</b>) ko00400 phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, (<b>F</b>) ko00380 tryptophan metabolism. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 6). Experimental groups are: CON, Control; MOD, Model; FIS, Fish oil; LSL, Lep low dose; LSM, Lep medium dose; LSH, Lep high dose. <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. CON; <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. MOD.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Correlation analysis. (<b>A</b>) Correlation analysis between the abundance of gut microbiota and amino acid metabolic pathways, and fecal 5-HT and SCFAs levels, (<b>B</b>) Correlation analysis between fecal SCFA concentrations, serum inflammatory factors, and behavioral indices. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01.</p>
Full article ">
18 pages, 2893 KiB  
Article
Exploring Gender Differences in the Effects of Diet and Physical Activity on Metabolic Parameters
by Stefania Gorini, Elisabetta Camajani, Alessandra Feraco, Andrea Armani, Sercan Karav, Tiziana Filardi, Giovanni Aulisa, Edda Cava, Rocky Strollo, Elvira Padua, Massimiliano Caprio and Mauro Lombardo
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020354 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 162
Abstract
Background: Gender differences in metabolic response to lifestyle interventions remain poorly explored. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a six-month Mediterranean diet (MD) intervention combined with regular physical activity on metabolic parameters in overweight adults. Methods: A prospective cohort study was [...] Read more.
Background: Gender differences in metabolic response to lifestyle interventions remain poorly explored. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a six-month Mediterranean diet (MD) intervention combined with regular physical activity on metabolic parameters in overweight adults. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in an obesity clinic in Rome, Italy, involving overweight adults (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) motivated to improve their lifestyle. Participants (n = 205; 107 men and 98 women) self-selected into physical activity groups (aerobic, anaerobic, combined or no activity). Gender-specific metabolic changes were assessed, including lipid profiles, liver markers and fasting glucose. Results: Significant gender differences in metabolic results were observed. Men showed greater reductions in total cholesterol (TC) and LDL, as well as significant reductions in alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Women showed a significant increase in HDL cholesterol. Fasting blood glucose decreased significantly in both sexes, with no differences between the sexes. Activity-specific analysis revealed that anaerobic activity significantly improved lipid metabolism in men, while aerobic activity produced the greatest benefits in women, including increased HDL and improved liver marker profiles. Conclusions: Therapeutic strategies combining MD and physical activity must take into account gender-specific physiological differences and the type of sport activity to optimise metabolic benefits. Personalised approaches may improve the management of cardiovascular risk factors in overweight individuals. Study registration: This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06661330). Full article
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<p>Comparison of fasting glycaemia, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, AST (GOT), ALT (GPT) and creatinine levels at T0 and T6 by gender.</p>
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<p>Mean Δ (T0–T6) of metabolic parameters across sport classifications.</p>
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<p>Mean Δ (T0–T6) of metabolic parameters across sport classifications in males.</p>
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<p>Mean Δ (T0–T6) of metabolic parameters across sport classifications in females.</p>
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<p>Heatmap of significant normalised gender differences in metabolic delta values across sports classifications.</p>
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14 pages, 1160 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Oral Semaglutide on Hepatic Fibrosis in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes in Real-World Clinical Practice: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Sapporo-Oral SEMA Study
by Hiroya Kitsunai, Yuka Shinozaki, Sho Furusawa, Naoyuki Kitao, Miki Ito, Hiroyoshi Kurihara, Chiho Oba-Yamamoto, Jun Takeuchi, Akinobu Nakamura, Yumi Takiyama and Hiroshi Nomoto
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18010129 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an important common comorbidity in subjects with type 2 diabetes, and liver fibrosis is a factor directly related to its prognosis. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are useful treatment options for MASLD; however, the efficacy of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an important common comorbidity in subjects with type 2 diabetes, and liver fibrosis is a factor directly related to its prognosis. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are useful treatment options for MASLD; however, the efficacy of oral semaglutide in treating liver steatosis/fibrosis has not been fully elucidated. Methods: A secondary analysis of a multicenter, retrospective, observational study investigating the efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes in a real-world clinical setting (the Sapporo-Oral SEMA study) was conducted. Subjects in the original cohort were divided into groups as follows: subjects with suspected MASLD (alanine aminotransferase > 30 U/L) were placed in an overall group; a subpopulation from an overall group at high risk for hepatic fibrosis (fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index ≥ 1.3 or platelet count < 200,000/µL) was placed in a high-risk group; and the remaining subjects were placed in a low-risk group. Changes in the hepatic steatosis index and FIB-4 index after oral semaglutide induction were explored using a paired t-test or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Overall, 169 subjects (including 131 that switched from other medications) were analyzed, and 67 and 102 subjects were selected for the high-risk and low-risk groups, respectively. Oral semaglutide significantly improved the hepatic steatosis index (from 46.1 to 44.6, p < 0.001) and FIB-4 index (from 1.04 to 0.96, p < 0.001) as well as several metabolic parameters in all cohorts. The efficacy of semaglutide in treating liver fibrosis was confirmed by the addition of, and switching from, existing agent groups. Furthermore, improvement in the FIB-4 index was significantly negatively correlated with the baseline FIB-4 index. Conclusions: The induction of oral semaglutide might be a useful treatment option for subjects with type 2 diabetes at high risk for liver fibrosis, even when switching from conventional medications for diabetes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacotherapy of Liver Fibrosis and Hepatitis: Recent Advances)
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<p>A flow diagram of the subanalysis. From the original cohort, an overall cohort was created by excluding cases treated with injectable GLP-1RAs, with low ALT, or missing FIB-4 index measurements. A high-risk group was selected from this population with a higher risk for liver fibrosis progression, and the remaining subjects were defined as a low-risk group. GLP-1RA, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist; ALT, alanine aminotransferase; FIB-4, fibrosis-4.</p>
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<p>Changes in FIB-4 index after oral semaglutide treatment using treatment regimen. (<b>a</b>) Analyses of overall cohort, (<b>b</b>) high-risk group, and (<b>c</b>) low-risk group. Bars represent median changes from each baseline (95% confidence interval). * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001 vs. baseline. FIB-4, fibrosis-4; OHA, oral hypoglycemic agent.</p>
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20 pages, 4651 KiB  
Article
Reduced Glutathione Promoted Growth Performance by Improving the Jejunal Barrier, Antioxidant Function, and Altering Proteomics of Weaned Piglets
by Zhimei Tian, Yiyan Cui, Miao Yu, Dun Deng, Zhenming Li, Xianyong Ma and Mingren Qu
Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010107 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Reduced glutathione (GSH) is a main nonenzymatic antioxidant, but its effects and underlying mechanisms on growth and intestinal health in weaned piglets still require further assessment. A total of 180 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to 5 groups: a basal diet (CON), and [...] Read more.
Reduced glutathione (GSH) is a main nonenzymatic antioxidant, but its effects and underlying mechanisms on growth and intestinal health in weaned piglets still require further assessment. A total of 180 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to 5 groups: a basal diet (CON), and a basal diet supplemented with antibiotic chlortetracycline (ABX), 50 (GSH1), 65 (GSH2), or 100 mg/kg GSH (GSH3). Results revealed that dietary GSH1, GSH2, and ABX improved body weight and the average daily gain of weaned piglets, and ABX decreased albumin content but increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity and the ratio of AST to alanine transaminase levels in plasma. GSH2 significantly decreased glucose content but increased the content of triglyceride and cholesterol in the plasma. Both GSH1 and GSH2 improved the jejunal mucosa architecture (villus height, crypt depth, and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth), tight junction protein (ZO-1 and Occludin), and antioxidant capacity (CAT and MDA), and the effects were superior to ABX. Dietary GSH improved the jejunal barrier by probably inhibiting the myosin light chain kinas pathway to up-regulate the transcript expression of tight junction protein (ZO-1 and Occludin) and Mucins. Through the proteomics analysis of the jejunal mucosa using 4D-DIA, the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that differentiated proteins were significantly enriched in redox homeostasis-related pathways such as glutathione metabolism, cytochrome P450, the reactive oxygen species metabolic pathway, the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-serine/threonine kinase pathway in GSH2 vs. CON and in GSH2 vs. ABX. The results of proteomics and qRT-PCR showed that GSH supplementation might dose-dependently promote growth performance and that it alleviated the weaning stress-induced oxidative injury of the jejunal mucosa in piglets by activating SIRTI and Akt pathways to regulate GPX4, HSP70, FoxO1. Therefore, diets supplemented with 50–65 mg/kg GSH can promote the growth of and relieve intestinal oxidative injury in weaned piglets. Full article
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Figure 1
<p>Effect of GSH on histomorphology of the jejunal mucosa in weaned piglets. (<b>A</b>) Histology images of jejunum by H&amp;E stains (scale bar, 500 µm). (<b>B</b>–<b>D</b>) The morphometry of the jejunal mucosa. Note: Values are shown as mean ± SEM. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt;0.001. ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH1, a basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg GSH; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH; GSH3, a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet.</p>
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<p>Effect of reduced glutathione on the epithelial barrier of jejunum in weaned piglets. Note: Values are shown as mean ± SEM. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt;0.001. ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH1, a basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg GSH; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH; GSH3, a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet. ZO-1, zonula occludens-1; Muc1/2, mucin 1/2; MLCK, myosin light chain kinas.</p>
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<p>Effects of reduced glutathione on jejunal antioxidant status in weaned piglets. Note: Values are shown as mean ± SEM. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt;0.001. ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH1, a basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg GSH; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH; GSH3, a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet. MDA, malondialdehyde; GSH, reduced glutathione, GPX, glutathione peroxidase; CAT, catalase; T-AOC, total antioxidant capacity; T-SOD, total superoxide dismutase.</p>
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<p>Proteomics analysis of the jejunal mucosa in weaned piglets. (<b>A</b>) Qualitative and quantitative analysis of identified proteins; (<b>B</b>) Differentially expressed proteins; (<b>C</b>) Two-dimensional principal component analysis; (<b>D</b>–<b>F</b>) KEGG pathway enrichment from GSH2 vs. CON, GSH2 vs. ABX, and ABX vs. CON, respectively. KEGG: Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes. Note: ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4 Cont.
<p>Proteomics analysis of the jejunal mucosa in weaned piglets. (<b>A</b>) Qualitative and quantitative analysis of identified proteins; (<b>B</b>) Differentially expressed proteins; (<b>C</b>) Two-dimensional principal component analysis; (<b>D</b>–<b>F</b>) KEGG pathway enrichment from GSH2 vs. CON, GSH2 vs. ABX, and ABX vs. CON, respectively. KEGG: Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes. Note: ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4 Cont.
<p>Proteomics analysis of the jejunal mucosa in weaned piglets. (<b>A</b>) Qualitative and quantitative analysis of identified proteins; (<b>B</b>) Differentially expressed proteins; (<b>C</b>) Two-dimensional principal component analysis; (<b>D</b>–<b>F</b>) KEGG pathway enrichment from GSH2 vs. CON, GSH2 vs. ABX, and ABX vs. CON, respectively. KEGG: Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes. Note: ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet.</p>
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<p>Effect of reduced glutathione on oxidative stress-related genes in the jejunal mucosa of weaned piglets. Note: Values are shown as mean ± SEM. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt;0.001. ABX, a basal diet supplemented with chlortetracycline; CON, basal diet; GSH1, a basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg GSH; GSH2, a basal diet supplemented with 65 mg/kg GSH; GSH3, a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSH in the basal diet. GPX4, glutathione peroxidase 4; Hsp70, heat shock protein 70 kDa; Hsp90, heat shock protein 90 kDa; SIRT1, sirtuin 1; FoxO1, forkhead box protein O1; Akt1, serine/threonine kinase 1.</p>
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18 pages, 4024 KiB  
Article
Two Cysteines in Raf Kinase Inhibitor Protein Make Differential Contributions to Structural Dynamics In Vitro
by Hyun Sang Cho, Mohammad Faysal Al Mazid, Eun-Young Lee, Md Abu Rayhan, Hyoun Sook Kim, Byung Il Lee and Hye Jin You
Molecules 2025, 30(2), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30020384 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 228
Abstract
As a scaffolding protein, Raf kinase binding protein (RKIP) is involved in a variety of cellular pathways, including the Raf–MEK–ERK-cascade. It acts as a negative regulator by binding to its partners, making it an attractive target in the development of therapeutic strategies for [...] Read more.
As a scaffolding protein, Raf kinase binding protein (RKIP) is involved in a variety of cellular pathways, including the Raf–MEK–ERK-cascade. It acts as a negative regulator by binding to its partners, making it an attractive target in the development of therapeutic strategies for cancer. Despite its structural stability as a monomer, RKIP may form a dimer, resulting in the switching of binding partners. It is still unclear how RKIP switches between monomeric and dimeric forms. Here, we identified the role of cysteine 133 in RKIP structural dynamics using recombinant human RKIP (rhRKIP) proteins purified from Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) cells. Mutation of alanine or serine instead of cysteine in RKIP proteins did not affect the biochemical characteristics, while dynamic light scattering and liquid chromatography (LC) quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) suggested distinct peaks in solution, which were identified via LC–MS/MS analyses, and further clarified the role of cysteine in RKIP dimerization. rhRKIP dimer formation was abrogated by a 32-aa peptide mimicking the region between two RKIP proteins for dimerization. In addition, the 32-aa peptide and its short derivatives were investigated for effects on cancer cell viability. Taken together, our findings suggest that it may be possible to regulate RKIP function by controlling its dynamics with reducing agents, which could aid the targeting of cancer cells. Full article
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<p>Preparation of recombinant human (rh) RKIP proteins and structural dynamics depending on reducing agents. (<b>A</b>) Purified rhRKIP protein samples obtained by affinity chromatography were analyzed by circular dichroism to examine their secondary structure. (<b>B</b>) rhRKIP proteins were prepared with sample loading buffer, with or without β-mercaptoethanol, and separated by SDS-PAGE. Gels were stained directly with Coomassie Brilliant Blue (<b>left</b>) or analyzed by immunoblotting using an anti-His antibody (<b>right</b>). (<b>C</b>) rhRKIP proteins were analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) for molecular weight and homogeneity. Wild-type (WT) rhRKIP proteins showed two peaks (R1 and R2) corresponding to the molecular weights of the monomer (R1) and dimer or higher-order structures (R2) (<b>left</b>), with peak intensities affected by the presence of DTT (<b>right</b> graph). (<b>D</b>) Relative peak intensities for each measurement are expressed as the mean ± SE from at least three independent experiments. Statistical significance was assessed using the paired Student’s <span class="html-italic">t</span> test (* <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.0001). (<b>E</b>) The predicted model structure of the RKIP dimer was visualized using UCSF ChimeraX (version 1.9) (<b>top</b>). The dimer interface (highlighted in the red box) was magnified to display detailed molecular interactions at 10 ns, 30 ns, and 50 ns during the 50 ns simulation (<b>bottom</b>). The distances between amino acids at the interfaces were measured at each time point (highlighted in the black box). Gray dotted line for physical contact (closest pair of atoms, predicted to contact physically); blue dotted line for H-bond. (<b>F</b>) The dynamics of the rhRKIP dimer model were calculated every 2 ps over a 50 ns simulation using the GROMACS platform (version 2024.0), three times. The analysis included RMSD, distance, number of hydrogen bonds (H-bonds), interaction energy, potential energy, and total energy. The root mean square deviation (RMSD) was used to assess differences in conformation of the protein dimer models. The distance between molecules within the predicted RKIP dimers was measured in angstroms (Å). Number of H-bonds was analyzed, and interaction energy was determined as the sum of van der Waals and Coulomb energies of the predicted RKIP dimers. The data presented represent the average values of three replicas and reflect the most consistent results obtained from at least three independent simulations using different dimer models.</p>
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<p>Phylogenetic tree and conservation of RKIP primary structure, and generation and circular dichroism characterization of rhRKIP mutant proteins. (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>) Amino acid sequences of RKIP (PEBP1, UniProt ID: P30086) from various species were retrieved from the UniProt database (<a href="https://www.uniprot.org/" target="_blank">https://www.uniprot.org/</a>, 3 June 2022) and subjected to alignment and phylogenetic analysis. (<b>B</b>) Amino acid residues 121–180 of RKIP from eight species were aligned, highlighting conserved cysteine residues at positions 133 and 168 and a serine residue at position 153 (arrowheads). (<b>C</b>) Schematic representations of plasmid constructs encoding mutant rhRKIP proteins. (<b>D</b>) Wild-type (WT) and mutant rhRKIP proteins were expressed, purified for in vitro studies, resolved by SDS-PAGE, and visualized using Coomassie Brilliant Blue. (<b>E</b>) Purified rhRKIP WT and mutant proteins were analyzed by circular dichroism to examine their secondary structures. The graph depicts the circular dichroism spectra of seven rhRKIP WT and mutant proteins: black solid line, WT; light brown line, C133A; red line, C168A; green line, C133S; blue line, C168S; violet line, C133A and C168A; pink line, C133S and C168S. (<b>F</b>) Based on the circular dichroism data, the secondary structures of the proteins were categorized into turns, various β-sheet types (left-twisted, relaxed, and right-twisted), and different α-helices (regular and distorted), along with other structural elements. The proportions of these structures within the rhRKIP proteins are represented as pie charts.</p>
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<p>Validation of rhRKIP dimers by Q-TOF analysis based on cysteine at positions 133 and 168. Purified rhRKIP WT and mutant proteins with substitutions of Cys133 or Cys168 were subjected to Q-TOF analysis to detect high-molecular-weight RKIP dimers in addition to monomeric RKIPs. (<b>A</b>) Mass spectra of all rhRKIP WT and mutant proteins are shown in two regions: ~22 kDa (monomeric state, <b>top</b>) and ~44 kDa (high molecular weight dimer, <b>bottom</b>). The lines in the spectra are as follows: blue, WT; violet, C133A; red, C168A; orange, C133S; green, C168S; turquoise, C133A and C168A; sky blue, C133S and C168S. (<b>B</b>) The relative mass spectra of each rhRKIP protein are presented. The intensities of dimeric proteins relative to monomeric proteins are shown. Red arrows indicate high molecular weight proteins in the mass spectra, where detected.</p>
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<p>Identification of dimer-specific regions in the RKIP dimer in a cysteine-133-dependent manner using mass spectrometry. A simplified workflow for identifying dimer-specific regions (peptide sequences) in the presence or absence of DTT is shown (<b>top</b>). Purified rhRKIP WT and four mutant proteins were separated by electrophoresis, subjected to in-gel digestion with trypsin with or without DTT, and analyzed by mass spectrometry for peptide identification. With the exception of rhRKIP C133A and C133S mutants, rhRKIP proteins showed DTT-dependent mass peaks and peptides associated with cysteine at position 133 (<b>bottom</b>). Gray arrowheads: trypsin cleavage sites.</p>
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<p>Inhibition of rhRKIP dimer formation by peptides mimicking the region near cysteine 133. Purified RKIP proteins were analyzed by electrophoresis in the absence of the reducing agent β-mercaptoethanol (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>). (<b>A</b>) All rhRKIP WT and mutant proteins were separated by electrophoresis and stained with Coomassie Brilliant Blue to visualize protein bands. Data shown are representative results from at least three independent experiments. (<b>B</b>) Purified rhRKIP WT, C133A, and C168A proteins were incubated with peptide-32 for 30 min, then subjected to electrophoresis in the absence of reducing agents and visualized using Coomassie Brilliant Blue. Peptide-32 was added at varying molar ratios to the proteins (50:1, 25:1, 10:1, 5:1, 1:1). Data shown are representative results of at least three independent experiments. (<b>C</b>) Band intensities of dimers, monomers, and peptide-conjugated monomers (top of the monomer band region) were quantified using ImageJ software (version 1.54m). Relative intensities were calculated against the total protein (dimers, monomers, and peptide-conjugated monomers) and expressed as graphs using GraphPad Prism v.9 (GraphPad Software LLC, Boston, MA, USA). Data are presented as the mean ± SE from at least three independent experiments. Statistical significance was assessed using the paired Student’s <span class="html-italic">t</span> test. (* <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.0001).</p>
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<p>Peptides targeting the region near cysteine 133 may be beneficial for anticancer therapy. (<b>A</b>) Various peptides encompassing cysteine 133 and its neighboring regions were synthesized and analyzed. (<b>B</b>) rhRKIP WT proteins were incubated with various peptides at a molar ratio of 1:50 (rhRKIP:peptide) for 30 min at 37 °C in the absence of any reducing agent and subjected to SDS-PAGE. Gels were either stained directly with Coomassie Brilliant Blue (<b>left</b>) or analyzed by immunoblotting using an anti-RKIP antibody (<b>right</b>). (<b>C</b>) HCT116 cells (3 × 10<sup>3</sup>) were seeded in 96-well plates and incubated for 24 h, followed by treatment with peptides (20 μM) for 48 h. Cell viability was quantified by MTT assay. Peptide 1–22 was soluble only in DMSO, which served as a control. Relative cell viability compared to vehicle alone (PBS or DMSO) is presented as the mean ± SE from at least three independent experiments. Statistical significance was assessed using the paired Student’s <span class="html-italic">t</span> test. (<b>D</b>) HCT116 cells (3 × 10<sup>3</sup>) were seeded in 96-well plates and incubated for 24 h, followed by treatment with peptide 1–22 (20 μM), trametinib, or their combination for 48 h. Cell viability was quantified by MTT assay. Relative cell viability compared to the vehicle is presented as the mean ± SE from at least three independent experiments. Statistical significance was assessed using the paired Student’s <span class="html-italic">t</span> test. (* <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.0001).</p>
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16 pages, 3855 KiB  
Article
The Improvement Effects of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 on Liver Function and Gut Microbiota of Long-Term Alcohol Drinkers: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial
by Jie Zhang, Cheng Li, Mengyao Duan, Zhen Qu, Yi Wang, Yao Dong, Ying Wu, Shuguang Fang and Shaobin Gu
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020320 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Background/Objectives: With the improvement of living standards, alcoholic liver disease caused by long-term drinking has been a common multiple disease. Probiotic interventions may help mitigate liver damage caused by alcohol intake, but the mechanisms need more investigation. Methods: This study involved 70 long-term [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: With the improvement of living standards, alcoholic liver disease caused by long-term drinking has been a common multiple disease. Probiotic interventions may help mitigate liver damage caused by alcohol intake, but the mechanisms need more investigation. Methods: This study involved 70 long-term alcohol drinkers (18–65 years old, alcohol consumption ≥20 g/day, lasting for more than one year) who were randomly assigned to either the BC99 group or the placebo group. Two groups were given BC99 (3 g/day, 1 × 1010 CFU) or placebo (3 g/day) for 60 days, respectively. Before and after the intervention, blood routine indicators, liver function, renal function, inflammatory factors and intestinal flora were evaluated. Results: The results showed that intervention with Weizmannia coagulans BC99 reduced the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, glutamyl transpeptidase, serum total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid and ‘blood urea nitrogen/creatinine’. Weizmannia coagulans BC99 also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-6 and increased the levels of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. The results of intestinal flora analysis showed that Weizmannia coagulans BC99 regulated the imbalance of intestinal flora, increased the beneficial bacteria abundance (Prevotella, Faecalibacterium and Roseburia) and reduced the conditionally pathogenic bacteria abundance (Escherichia-Shigella and Klebsiella). Both LEfSe analysis and random forest analysis indicated that the increase in the abundance of Muribaculaceae induced by BC99 was a key factor in alleviating alcohol-induced liver damage. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that Weizmannia coagulans BC99 has the potential to alleviate alcoholic liver injury and provide an effective strategy for liver protection in long-term drinkers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics on Human Health)
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Graphical abstract
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<p>Flowchart of the study design.</p>
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<p>The regulatory effect of <span class="html-italic">Weizmannia coagulans</span> BC99 on liver function indicators. (<b>A</b>) The effect of BC99 on ALT. (<b>B</b>) The effect of BC99 on AST. (<b>C</b>) The effect of BC99 on TBil. (<b>D</b>) The effect of BC99 on γ-GT. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>The regulatory effect of <span class="html-italic">Weizmannia coagulans</span> BC99 on “BUN (mg/dL)/Cr (mg/dL)”. The conversion relationship between different units refers to Beeler [<a href="#B16-nutrients-17-00320" class="html-bibr">16</a>]. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001. The two red dashed lines represent the range of clinical normal values for this indicator.</p>
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<p>The regulatory effect of <span class="html-italic">Weizmannia coagulans</span> BC99 on hs-CRP (<b>A</b>) and inflammatory factors TNF-α (<b>B</b>), IL-6 (<b>C</b>) and IL-10 (<b>D</b>). * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>BC99 regulated the composition of gut microbiota. (<b>A</b>) ace indice; (<b>B</b>) observed indice; (<b>C</b>) NMDS analysis; (<b>D</b>) abundance of phylum-level flora; (<b>E</b>) abundance of genus-level flora. Pla_2 and BC99_2 represented samples from the placebo group and BC99 group after 60 days of intervention, respectively. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>BC99 elevated the levels of beneficial bacteria while reducing the levels of pathogenic bacteria. (<b>A</b>) Analysis of differences in the microbial taxa by LEfSe; (<b>B</b>) random forest analysis; (<b>C</b>) analysis of flora interaction; (<b>D</b>) KEGG L2 metabolism pathway; (<b>E</b>) KEGG L3 metabolism pathway. Pla_2 and BC99_2 represented samples from the placebo group and BC99 group after 60 days of intervention, respectively. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>Correlation analysis of intestinal flora with inflammation and physiological indexes. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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20 pages, 1936 KiB  
Article
Utilizing Invasive Pterygoplichthys pardalis as a Sustainable Fish Meal Substitute and Euphorbia hirta Extract Supplement: Effects on Growth Performance, Organosomatic Indices, Hematological Profiles, and Serum Biochemistry in Chinese Bullfrogs (Hoplobatrachus chinensis)
by Sontaya Sookying, Phanit Srisuttha, Vipada Rodprasert, Chanthima Chaodon, Wikit Phinrub, Nantaporn Sutthi and Paiboon Panase
Life 2025, 15(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15010115 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 500
Abstract
This research examined the efficacy of substituting commercial fish meal (CFM) with Pterygoplichthys pardalis meal (PPM) in Hoplobatrachus chinensis diets, with and without Euphorbia hirta extract (EHE) supplementation. The study utilized six dietary treatments: a control diet (0% PPM, no EHE) and five [...] Read more.
This research examined the efficacy of substituting commercial fish meal (CFM) with Pterygoplichthys pardalis meal (PPM) in Hoplobatrachus chinensis diets, with and without Euphorbia hirta extract (EHE) supplementation. The study utilized six dietary treatments: a control diet (0% PPM, no EHE) and five experimental diets with varying PPM levels (0%+, 25%+, 50%+, 75%+, and 100%+), each fortified with 300 mg/kg EHE. The experiment spanned 90 days. The analysis revealed that PPM exhibited superior amino acid profiles compared to CFM, both in quality and quantity, while CFM demonstrated higher fatty acid content. The growth metrics showed a significant decline only in the group receiving 100% PPM replacement with EHE supplementation. Most organosomatic indices remained consistent across the treatments, with the exception of intraperitoneal fat, which decreased in all EHE-supplemented groups. Blood parameters, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and hematocrit, along with serum proteins (total protein, globulin, and albumin), displayed an upward trend in all EHE-supplemented groups. The 50%+ and 75%+ PPM replacement groups exhibited significantly elevated serum glucose levels (p < 0.05). Liver enzymes (alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase) showed no significant variations among the treatments. The results indicate that PPM can serve as an effective replacement for up to 75% of CFM in H. chinensis feed, without compromising their growth performance. Moreover, supplementing with EHE helps to enhance essential biochemical indices in the body, without adversely affecting liver function. This investigation offers valuable perspectives on the development of sustainable aquaculture feed and the potential application of invasive fish species in aquatic animal nutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Nutrition, Production, and Welfare)
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<p>Growth performance of <span class="html-italic">Hoplobatrachus chinensis</span> fed with fish meal replacement at six different levels of <span class="html-italic">Pterygoplichthys pardalis</span> meal and supplemented with <span class="html-italic">Euphorbia hirta</span> leaf extract for 90 days; WG = weight gain (<b>a</b>), ADG = average daily growth (<b>b</b>), SGR = specific growth rate (<b>c</b>), SR = survival rate (<b>d</b>), FCR = feed conversion ratio (<b>e</b>), and PER = protein efficiency ratio (<b>f</b>). Different letters indicate significant differences (<span class="html-italic">p &lt;</span> 0.05).</p>
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<p>Organosomatic indices of <span class="html-italic">Hoplobatrachus chinensis</span> fed with fish meal replacement at six different levels of <span class="html-italic">Pterygoplichthys pardalis</span> meal and supplemented with <span class="html-italic">Euphorbia hirta</span> leaf extract for 90 days; HSI = hepatosomatic index (<b>a</b>), RSI = renosomatic index (<b>b</b>), ISI = intestinosomatic index (<b>c</b>), IF = intraperitoneal fat, (<b>d</b>) and SSI = spleenosomatic index (<b>e</b>). Different letters indicate significant differences (<span class="html-italic">p &lt;</span> 0.05).</p>
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<p>Hematological indices of <span class="html-italic">Hoplobatrachus chinensis</span> fed with fish meal replacement at six different levels of <span class="html-italic">Pterygoplichthys pardalis</span> meal and supplemented with <span class="html-italic">Euphorbia hirta</span> leaf extract for 90 days; WBC = white blood cell count (<b>a</b>), RBC = red blood cell count, (<b>b</b>) and Hct = hematocrit (<b>c</b>). Different letters indicate significant differences (<span class="html-italic">p &lt;</span> 0.05).</p>
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<p>Serum biochemical indices of <span class="html-italic">Hoplobatrachus chinensis</span> fed with fish meal replacement at six different levels of <span class="html-italic">Pterygoplichthys pardalis</span> meal and supplemented with <span class="html-italic">Euphorbia hirta</span> leaf extract for 90 days: total protein (<b>a</b>), albumin (<b>b</b>), globulin (<b>c</b>), glucose (<b>d</b>), ALT—alanine transaminase (<b>e</b>), and AST—aspartate transaminase (<b>f</b>). Different letters indicate significant differences (<span class="html-italic">p &lt;</span> 0.05).</p>
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14 pages, 6477 KiB  
Article
Study on the Effect of Bee Venom and Its Main Component Melittin in Delaying Skin Aging in Mice
by Huiting Zhao, Miaomiao Liu, Longlong Chen, Yu Gong, Weihua Ma and Yusuo Jiang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(2), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26020742 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Bee venom (BV) and its main compound melittin (MLT) have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities; however, very little research has been conducted on their effects on skin aging. In this study, a mouse skin aging model induced by D-galactose was constructed via subcutaneous [...] Read more.
Bee venom (BV) and its main compound melittin (MLT) have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities; however, very little research has been conducted on their effects on skin aging. In this study, a mouse skin aging model induced by D-galactose was constructed via subcutaneous injection into the scruff of the neck, and different doses of BV and MLT were used as interventions. The anti-aging effects and mechanisms of BV and MLT were explored by detecting the skin morphology and structure, and anti-aging-related factors and performing non-targeted metabolomics of mice. BV and MLT improved dermal and epidermal thickness, boosted the collagen fiber content, increased hydroxyproline and hyaluronic acid levels, and enhanced transcript-level expression of IL-10, Col1a1, and Col3a1, while decreasing that of IL-1β. Metabolomic analysis showed that BV and MLT regulated the levels of some metabolites (compared to those in the skin aging control). BV effectively alleviated skin aging by regulating the pentose phosphate pathway, and pathways associated with carbon, galactose, and β-alanine metabolism, whereas MLT regulated pathways related to lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, and atherosclerosis. This study highlights the potential applicability of BV and MLT in skin aging treatments and cosmetic products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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<p>Hematoxylin-eosin staining images of skin tissue of mice. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-L, low dose of bee venom (0.1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); BV-H, high dose of bee venom (1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); MLT-L, low dose of melittin (0.05 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); and MLT-H, high dose of melittin (0.5 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>). Scale bar = 200 μm.</p>
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<p>Masson trichrome staining images of skin tissue of mice. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-L, low dose of bee venom (0.1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); BV-H, high dose of bee venom (1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); MLT-L, low dose of melittin (0.05 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); and MLT-H, high dose of melittin (0.5 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>). Scale bar = 50 μm.</p>
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<p>Effect of BV and MLT on the hydroxyproline (<b>A</b>) and hyaluronic acid (<b>B</b>) content in mouse skin sections. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-L, low dose of bee venom (0.1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); BV-H, high dose of bee venom (1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); MLT-L, low dose of melittin (0.05 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); and MLT-H, high dose of melittin (0.5 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>). ** indicates <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. NC. Different letters indicate <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 between treatment groups.</p>
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<p>Effect of BV and MLT on the expression of <span class="html-italic">Col1a1</span> (<b>A</b>) and <span class="html-italic">Col3a1</span> (<b>B</b>) in mice skin. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-L, low dose of bee venom (0.1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); BV-H, high dose of bee venom (1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); MLT-L, low dose of melittin (0.05 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); and MLT-H, high dose of melittin (0.5 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>). ** indicates <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. NC. Different letters indicate <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 between treatment groups.</p>
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<p>Effect of BV and MLT on the expression of <span class="html-italic">IL-1β</span> (<b>A</b>) and <span class="html-italic">IL-10</span> (<b>B</b>) in mice skin. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-L, low dose of bee venom (0.1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); BV-H, high dose of bee venom (1 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); MLT-L, low dose of melittin (0.05 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>); and MLT-H, high dose of melittin (0.5 mg·kg<sup>−1</sup>). ** indicates <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01 vs. NC. Different letters indicate <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 between treatment groups.</p>
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<p>Comparison of orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) score plots of mouse skin metabolism profiles from five groups. (<b>A</b>) NC vs. D-gal; (<b>B</b>) D-gal and VC; (<b>C</b>) D-gal vs. BV-H; (<b>D</b>) D-gal vs. MLT-L. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-H, high dose of bee venom; MLT-L, low dose of melittin.</p>
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<p>Volcano diagram of differential metabolites between different groups. (<b>A</b>–<b>D</b>) Volcano plots of differential metabolites between D-gal and NC groups, VC and D-gal groups, BV-H and D-gal groups, MLT-L and D-gal groups, respectively. The top 10 relevant metabolites ranked by log<sub>2</sub>FC-value are shown in each figure.</p>
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<p>Venn diagram showing the number of metabolites shared among different groups. (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>,<b>C</b>) represent the number of common differential metabolites in the VC, BV-H, and MLT-L groups shared by the NC and D-gal groups, respectively. NC, normal control; D-gal, D-galactose; VC, positive control; BV-H, high dose of bee venom; MLT-L, low dose of melittin.</p>
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<p>Differential metabolite pathway enrichment analysis bubble chart. (<b>A</b>–<b>D</b>) Enriched bubble plots of differential metabolite pathways between D-gal and NC groups, VC and D-gal groups, BV-H and D-gal groups, and MLT-L and D-gal groups, respectively.</p>
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19 pages, 3786 KiB  
Article
The Use of Coffee Cherry Pulp Extract as an Alternative to an Antibiotic Growth Promoter in Broiler Diets
by Wanaporn Tapingkae, Phatchari Srinual, Pimporn Khamtavee, Naret Pintalerd, Thanongsak Chaiyaso, Mongkol Yachai, Chanidapha Kanmanee, Chompunut Lumsangkul and Orranee Srinual
Animals 2025, 15(2), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15020244 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 328
Abstract
Coffee cherry pulp (CCP) is a by-product of coffee bean production. CCP contains amounts of phenolic compounds that are beneficial for animals. This study evaluated the impact of coffee cherry pulp extract (CCPE) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, carcass characteristics, serum biochemistry, [...] Read more.
Coffee cherry pulp (CCP) is a by-product of coffee bean production. CCP contains amounts of phenolic compounds that are beneficial for animals. This study evaluated the impact of coffee cherry pulp extract (CCPE) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, carcass characteristics, serum biochemistry, cecum microbial population, intestinal morphology, and immune and antioxidant responses of broilers. Five hundred 1-day-old Ross 308 chicks were randomly assigned to five groups: a basal diet control, a basal diet with antibiotic growth promoters at 0.25 g/kg, and groups supplemented with CCPE at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg diet over 35 days. The results showed that throughout the experimental period, the groups supplemented with CCPE improved their final weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). CCPE at 1.0 and 2.0 g/kg diet reduced the average daily feed intake (p < 0.05). In addition, CCPE at 0.5 g/kg reduced levels of serum alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05). Triglyceride levels were the lowest in CCPE 2.0 (p < 0.05). In the group supplemented with CCPE at all levels, the high-density lipoprotein levels significantly increased (p < 0.05). Drip loss in the breast at 24 and 48 h decreased (p < 0.05). Additionally, live weight, defeathered weight, and carcass weight significantly increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, CCPE improved intestinal morphology, especially villus height and the villus height per crypt depth ratio (p < 0.05). CCPE supplementation also reduced pathogenic bacteria, increased Lactobacillus spp. (p < 0.05), and increased the expression of immune-related genes and antioxidant activity in the liver and intestines (p < 0.05). Therefore, the use of CCPE as an alternative to antibiotics in broiler feed improved growth performance and health parameters in broilers. It provides a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for supplementary feed, contributing to more efficient poultry nutrition management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Use of Agricultural By-Products in Animal Feeding)
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<p>Effects of coffee cherry pulp extract on lipid profile. CON: control group with basal diet; AGPs: antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) group; CCPE 0.5: coffee cherry pulp extract at 0.5 g/kg diet; CCPE 1.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 1.0 g/kg diet; CCPE 2.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 2.0 g/kg diet; HDL: high-density lipoprotein; LDL: low-density lipoprotein. <sup>a, b, c, d</sup> Means with different superscripts are significantly different at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>Histological representations of the H&amp;E-stained duodenum, jejunum, and ileum sections of broiler chickens. CON: control group with basal diet; AGP: antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) group; CCPE 0.5: coffee cherry pulp extract at 0.5 g/kg diet; CCPE 1.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 1.0 g/kg diet; CCPE 2.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 2.0 g/kg diet. Magnification was 10× the objective lens. Scale bars represent 200 µm.</p>
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<p>Cecum microbial count of broiler chickens impacted by dietary supplements with different levels of coffee cherry pulp extract. CON: control group with basal diet; AGP: antibiotic growth promoter group; CCPE 0.5: coffee cherry pulp extract at 0.5 g/kg diet; CCPE 1.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 1.0 g/kg diet; CCPE 2.0: coffee cherry pulp extract at 2.0 g/kg diet.</p>
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<p>Expressions of antioxidant- and immune-related genes in the liver of broilers fed with coffee cherry pulp extract. Three replicates. IL-1β: interleukin 1 beta; IL6: interleukin 6; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor alpha; MnSOD: manganese-containing superoxide dismutase; CAT: catalase; GSH-Px1: glutathione peroxidase 1. <sup>a, b, c, d, e</sup> Means with different superscripts are significantly different at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>Expressions of antioxidant- and immune-related genes in the ileum of broilers fed with coffee cherry pulp extract. Three replicates. IL-1β: interleukin 1 beta; IL6: interleukin 6; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor alpha; MnSOD: manganese-containing superoxide dismutase; CAT: catalase; GSH-Px1: glutathione peroxidase 1. <sup>a, b, c, d, e</sup> Means with different superscripts are significantly different at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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20 pages, 4149 KiB  
Article
Effects of Different Molasses Levels and Slow-Release Urea Combinations on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Rumen Fermentation, and Microflora of Holstein Fattening Bulls
by Zhiyuan Xu, Shuaihong Li, Fangzhou Yu, Yinghao Huang, Tao Xie, Hanbing Bian, Longfei Lv, Yapeng Hu, Ruoran Tao, Caiyun Fan, Sijia Liu and Jianbo Cheng
Agriculture 2025, 15(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15020183 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different combinations of molasses levels and slow-release urea on Holstein fattening bulls. Sixty Holstein fattening bulls of a similar age, weight, and health status were randomly divided into four groups of fifteen [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different combinations of molasses levels and slow-release urea on Holstein fattening bulls. Sixty Holstein fattening bulls of a similar age, weight, and health status were randomly divided into four groups of fifteen Holstein fattening bulls each. All of the treatments were as follows: (1) basic diet group (CON); (2) 2% molasses slow-release urea group (LMU); (3) 4% molasses slow-release urea group (MMU); and (4) 6% molasses slow-release urea group (HMU). The results of the study showed that the MMU had an outstanding performance, with a 13.3% increase in average daily weight gain compared with the control group, a significant decrease in feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05), and a significant increase in apparent digestibility of crude protein (p < 0.05). In terms of serum biochemical indices, blood ammonia and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentrations were significantly higher in the MMU than in the CON (p < 0.05). The rumen pH of all treatment groups was lower than that of the CON (p < 0.05), whereas the concentrations of microbial crude protein (MCP), as well as acetic acid, propionic acid, and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) were significantly higher in both the MMU and HMU (p < 0.05). The dominant phyla in each group were Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Patescibacteria, and the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in the MMU increased by 5.47% compared with that in the CON. In the MMU, Prevotellaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Ruminococcaceae increased by 9.03%, 0.67%, and 3.43%, respectively, compared with the CON. The economic benefit analysis showed that the daily feeding cost of fattened cattle in the MMU was reduced by RMB 1.62 yuan, and the daily farming benefit of each cow was increased by RMB 7.19 yuan. In conclusion, the MMU was effective in improving the growth performance of fattening cows, optimizing rumen fermentation, reducing cost, and increasing profit, which is a nutritional strategy with great application value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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<p>Statistical map of rumen flora α diversity index (* 0.05 &lt; <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.1, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). (<b>a</b>) ACE index, (<b>b</b>) Chao 1 index, (<b>c</b>) Shannon index, (<b>d</b>) Simpson index, (<b>e</b>) Coverage index, (<b>f</b>) Sobs index.</p>
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<p>Principal coordinate analysis chart of Bray–Curtis distance algorithm.</p>
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<p>Control group (CON) and different molasses levels combined with slow-release urea in Phylum microbial relative abundance bar chart (<b>a</b>) and heatmap (<b>b</b>). Bar charts (<b>c</b>) and heatmap (<b>d</b>) of relative abundance of microorganisms at family level of CON and different molasses levels combined with slow-release urea. Bar chart (<b>e</b>) and heat chart (<b>f</b>) of relative abundance of microorganisms fed CON and different molasses levels combined with slow-release urea at genus level.</p>
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<p>Test for differences between groups (<b>a</b>), LEfSe discriminant analysis of multi-level species differences between groups (<b>b</b>,<b>c</b>).</p>
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<p>Test for differences between groups (<b>a</b>), LEfSe discriminant analysis of multi-level species differences between groups (<b>b</b>,<b>c</b>).</p>
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14 pages, 1425 KiB  
Article
Limited Diagnostic Value of miRNAs in Early Trauma-Induced Liver Injury: Only miRNA-122 Emerges as a Late-Phase Marker
by Jason-Alexander Hörauf, Amit Singh, Maika Voth, Hamed Moheimani, Cora Rebecca Schindler, Borna Relja, Liudmila Leppik, Ingo Marzi and Dirk Henrich
Diagnostics 2025, 15(2), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15020179 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Liver injury is common after abdominal trauma. However, the established biomarkers of liver injury, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lack accuracy. This study investigates whether specific liver-related microRNAs (miRNAs) are released into the circulation in trauma patients [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Liver injury is common after abdominal trauma. However, the established biomarkers of liver injury, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lack accuracy. This study investigates whether specific liver-related microRNAs (miRNAs) are released into the circulation in trauma patients with liver injury and whether they can indicate liver damage in the early phase after major trauma. Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data and blood samples from 26 trauma patients was conducted. The levels of miRNA-21-5p, -122-5p, -191-5p, -192-3p, and -212-3p were measured in patients with computed tomography-confirmed liver trauma (LT group, n = 12) and polytrauma patients without liver trauma (PT group, n = 14) upon emergency room (ER) admission, and 24 and 48 h after trauma. Additionally, liver-type fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP) was measured, as it has recently been discussed in the context of abdominal trauma. Results: Only miRNA-122-5p showed a significant increase in the LT group compared to the PT group, but only at the 48 h time point (p = 0.032). Conversely, L-FABP (p = 0.018) and ALT (p = 0.05) were significantly elevated in the LT group compared to the PT group at the time of ER admission. There was a moderate correlation between miRNA-122-5p and AISAbdomen (p = 0.056) and transfused red blood cell concentrates (p = 0.055). L-FABP correlated strongly with the ALT levels (p = 0.0009) and the length of stay in the ICU (p = 0.0086). Conclusions: In this study, the liver-specific miRNA-122-5p did not effectively indicate liver injury in the early acute post-traumatic phase. Future research with a large sample size should investigate whether other miRNAs can more accurately predict liver injury and the extent of hepatocellular injury, particularly in the acute post-traumatic phase. Full article
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<p>Plasma levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6). There were no significant differences in the IL-6 levels between the groups and the respective time points. LT = liver trauma; PT = polytrauma.</p>
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<p>Plasma levels of coagulation parameters. (<b>A</b>) The International Normalized Ratio (INR) value is significantly lower in both the LT group and PT group at emergency room (ER) admission compared to the 24 h time point. (<b>B</b>) There was no significant difference between the groups with regard to the activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). (<b>C</b>) Both the LT group and the PT group showed a significant increase in fibrinogen over the time points. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.01 and **** <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.0001. LT = liver trauma; PT = polytrauma.</p>
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<p>Plasma levels of liver enzymes. (<b>A</b>) The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT/GPT) values were higher in the LT group than in the PT group, with significant differences between these two groups both at the time of admission to the ER and at 48 h after trauma. (<b>B</b>) There was a tendency towards higher Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST/GOT) values in the LT group than in the PT group at all the time points, with no significant differences. (<b>C</b>) There were no significant differences in the gamma-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT) levels between the groups and the respective time points. ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.01. LT = liver trauma; PT = polytrauma.</p>
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<p>Plasma levels of different microRNAs (miRNA). (<b>A</b>) There was a tendency towards higher miRNA-122 values in the LT group than in the PT group at all the time points, with a significant difference between the 48 h time point in the LT group and the PT group. (<b>B</b>) There were no significant differences in the miRNA-21 levels between the groups and the respective time points. (<b>C</b>) There was a tendency towards higher miRNA-191 values in the PT group than in the LT group at all the time points, with no significant differences between the groups. (<b>D</b>,<b>E</b>) There were no significant differences in the miRNA-192 or miRNA-212 levels between the groups and the respective time points. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.05. LT = liver trauma; PT = polytrauma.</p>
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<p>Plasma levels of liver fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP). The L-FABP value on admission to the emergency room (ER) was significantly higher in the LT group than in the PT group. In both groups, the L-FABP decreases significantly 48 h after trauma compared to the ER time point. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.001. LT = liver trauma; PT = polytrauma.</p>
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20 pages, 6034 KiB  
Article
Therapeutic Potential of Clove Oil in Mitigating Cadmium-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity Through Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antiapoptotic Mechanisms
by Inas M. Elgharib, Fatma M. Abdelhamid, Gehad E. Elshopakey, Hatem Sembawa, Talat A. Albukhari, Waheed A. Filimban, Rehab M. Bagadood, Mohamed E. El-Boshy and Engy F. Risha
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(1), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18010094 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 363
Abstract
Hazardous heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd), are widely distributed in the environment and cause oxidative stress in various animal and human organs. Clove oil (CLO), a common aromatic spice, has been used as a traditional medication as it has potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and [...] Read more.
Hazardous heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd), are widely distributed in the environment and cause oxidative stress in various animal and human organs. Clove oil (CLO), a common aromatic spice, has been used as a traditional medication as it has potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Background/Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects of clove oil (CLO) against hepatorenal toxicity induced by cadmium (Cd). Methods: Twenty rats were equally divided into four groups: a control group, a Cd group treated with 15 mg/kg b.wt CdCl2, a CLO group administered 200 mg/kg b.wt CLO, and a Cd+CLO group. All groups were orally treated for 4 weeks. Results: Cadmium (Cd) exposure caused anemia and hepatorenal damage, as evidenced by increased serum levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, total bilirubin (including its direct and indirect fractions), and elevated activities of liver enzymes such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). However, total protein and albumin levels decreased. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the levels of glutathione, glutathione transferase, and catalase in the liver antioxidant profiles. Meanwhile, malondialdehyde levels increased. Cadmium toxicity caused elevated expression of liver apoptosis markers, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and caspase-3, and inflammation. CLO ameliorated the oxidative effects of Cd through decreasing urea (27.4%), creatinine (41.6%), liver enzymes, and hepatic apoptotic markers while increasing levels of total protein, albumin, and hepatic values of SOD (60.37%), CAT (64.49%), GSH (50.41%), and GST (9.16%). Conclusions: Hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as the antioxidant system, improved following clove oil treatment, leading to a reduction in hepatorenal damage. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that CLO protects rats from inflammation, apoptosis, and hepatorenal oxidative damage caused by Cd poisoning. Comprehensive translational research is required to validate CLO’s efficacy and safety of use in humans. Future studies should focus on elucidating the precise molecular mechanisms, optimal dosing strategies, and potential synergistic effects of CLO with other therapeutic agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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<p>Liver function tests at fourth week after clove oil treatment in rats intoxicated with cadmium (mean ± SE). Significant values are defined as those with distinct superscript letters (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). The enzymes that convert amino acids to bilirubin are (<b>A</b>) alanine aminotransferase, (<b>B</b>) aspartate aminotransferase, (<b>C</b>) alkaline phosphatase, (<b>D</b>) total bilirubin, (<b>E</b>) direct bilirubin, and (<b>F</b>) indirect bilirubin.</p>
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<p>Proteinogram of rats intoxicated with cadmium at the end of the fourth week after receiving clove oil treatment (mean ± SE). Significant values are defined as those with distinct superscript letters (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). (<b>A</b>) Globulin, (<b>B</b>) albumin, (<b>C</b>) total protein, and (<b>D</b>) A/G ratio.</p>
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<p>Microscopic images of H&amp;E-stained hepatic sections from the control group (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>) and CLO group (<b>C</b>,<b>D</b>) demonstrating typical radially oriented hepatic cords around the central veins (CV) with normal portal regions and sinusoids (s). H&amp;E-stained hepatic sections from the Cd group (<b>E</b>,<b>F</b>) demonstrating focal areas of coagulative necrosis (black arrowheads), vascular dilation (red arrow), marked inflammation (black arrows) in the portal areas, and hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes (dashed black arrows). H&amp;E-stained hepatic sections from the Cd+CLO group (<b>G</b>,<b>H</b>) demonstrating hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes (dashed black arrows) (100 bar 100 is the low magnification, and 400 bar 50 is the high magnification).</p>
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<p>Microscopic images of H&amp;E-stained renal cortical sections revealing normal tubules (T) and glomeruli (G) with minimal interstitial tissue in the control group (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>) and CLO group (<b>C</b>,<b>D</b>). H&amp;E-stained renal cortical sections from the Cd group (<b>E</b>,<b>F</b>) revealing severe hydropic degeneration of the tubular epithelium (dashed black arrows), necrosis (black arrowheads), congestion (red arrows), and marked perivascular edema (*) with many mononuclear cells infiltrating the interstitial tissue (thin black arrows). H&amp;E-stained renal cortical sections from the Cd+CLO group (<b>G</b>,<b>H</b>) showing minor perivascular edema (*) and milder hydropic degeneration in a few tubules (dashed black arrows) and some mononuclear cells infiltrating the interstitial tissue (thin black arrows) (100 bar 100 is the low magnification, and 400 bar 50 is the high magnification).</p>
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<p>Immunostained liver section displaying negative immunostaining against caspase-3 in the control group (<b>A</b>) and CLO group (<b>B</b>). Liver displayed strong immunostaining against caspase-3 in the Cd group (<b>C</b>). Liver sections displayed a marked decrease in immunostaining against caspase-3 in the Cd+CLO group (<b>D</b>). (IHC, DAB immunostaining, hematoxylin as a counterstain, 100×). Bars (<b>E</b>) represent the scores of caspase-3 expressions (mean ± SE). Values with different superscript letters are considered significant at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>Immunostained liver section displaying negative immunostaining against TNF-α in the control group (<b>A</b>) and CLO group (<b>B</b>). Liver displayed strong immunostaining against TNF-α in the Cd group (<b>C</b>). Liver sections displayed a marked decrease in immunostaining against TNF-α in the Cd+CLO group (<b>D</b>) (IHC, DAB immunostaining, hematoxylin as a counterstain, 100×). Bars (<b>E</b>) represent the scores of TNF-α expression (mean ± SE). Values with different superscript letters are considered significant at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>Experiment design.</p>
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12 pages, 449 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Linear and Cyclic Peptides Containing Arginine, Tryptophan, and Diphenylalanine
by David Salehi, Eman H. M. Mohammed, Naiera M. Helmy and Keykavous Parang
Antibiotics 2025, 14(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14010082 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 651
Abstract
Background. We have previously reported peptides composed of sequential arginine (R) residues paired with tryptophan (W) or 3,3-diphenyl-L-alanine residues (Dip), such as cyclic peptides [R4W4] and [R4(Dip)3], as antibacterial agents. Results. Herein, we report antibacterial [...] Read more.
Background. We have previously reported peptides composed of sequential arginine (R) residues paired with tryptophan (W) or 3,3-diphenyl-L-alanine residues (Dip), such as cyclic peptides [R4W4] and [R4(Dip)3], as antibacterial agents. Results. Herein, we report antibacterial and antifungal activities of five linear peptides, namely ((DipR)4(WR)), ((DipR)3(WR)2), ((DipR)2(WR)3), ((DipR)(WR)4), and (DipR)4R, and five cyclic peptides [(DipR)4(WR)], [(DipR)3(WR)2], [(DipR)2(WR)3], [(DipR)(WR)4], and [DipR]5, containing alternate positively charged R and hydrophobic W and Dip residues against fungal, Gram-positive, and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of all peptides were determined by the micro-broth dilution method against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Bacillus subtilis. Fungal organisms were Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Aspergillus fumigatus. [DipR]5 and ((DipR)2(WR)3) showed MIC values of 0.39–25 µM and 0.78–12.5 µM against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains, respectively. The highest activity was observed against S. pneumoniae with MIC values of 0.39–0.78 µM among tested compounds. [DipR]5 demonstrated MIC values of 6.6 µM against C. parapsilosis and 1.6 µM against A. fumigatus, whereas fluconazole showed MIC values of 3.3 µM and >209 µM, respectively. Conclusions. These findings highlight the potential of these peptides as broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. Full article
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<p>Chemical structures of synthesized cyclic and linear peptides containing R, Dip and/or W residues (Parentheses () and brackets [] represent the linear and cyclic peptides, respectively). Adapted from [<a href="#B26-antibiotics-14-00082" class="html-bibr">26</a>]. Hydrophobic side chains of Dip are shown in blue.</p>
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13 pages, 655 KiB  
Article
Pharmacokinetic Analysis of an Isoniazid Suspension Among Spanish Children Under 6 Years of Age
by Antoni Noguera-Julian, Emma Wilhelmi, Maria Cussó, Rob Aarnoutse, Angela Colbers, Loreto Martorell, Maria Goretti López-Ramos, Joan Vinent, Rosa Farré, Dolors Soy, Sílvia Simó-Nebot and Clàudia Fortuny
Antibiotics 2025, 14(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14010074 - 12 Jan 2025
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Background: Isoniazid (INH) remains a first-line drug for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in young children. In 2010, the WHO recommended an increase in the daily dose of INH up to 10 (7–15) mg/kg. Currently, there are no INH suspensions available in [...] Read more.
Background: Isoniazid (INH) remains a first-line drug for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in young children. In 2010, the WHO recommended an increase in the daily dose of INH up to 10 (7–15) mg/kg. Currently, there are no INH suspensions available in Europe. Methods: We aimed to characterize the pharmacokinetics of a licensed INH suspension (10 mg/mL, Pharmascience Inc., Montreal, QC, Canada) in children receiving INH daily at 10 mg/kg in a single-center, open-label, non-randomized, phase IIa clinical trial (EudraCT Number: 2016-002000-31) in Barcelona (Spain). Samples were analyzed using a validated UPLC-UV assay. The N-acetyltransferase 2 gene was examined to determine the acetylation status. A non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted. Results: Twenty-four patients (12 females) were included (primary chemoprophylaxis, n = 12; TB treatment, n = 9; and TB infection preventive treatment, n = 3). The acetylator statuses were homozygous fast (n = 3), heterozygous intermediate (n = 18), and homozygous slow (n = 2; unavailable in one patient). The INH median (IQR) Cmax and AUC0–24h values were 6.1 (4.5–8.2) mg/L and 23.0 (11.2–35.4) h∙mg/L; adult targets (>3 mg/L and 11.6–26.3 h∙mg/L) were not achieved in three and six cases, respectively. Gender, age at assessment (<2 or >2 years), and INH monotherapy (vs. combined TB treatment) had no impact on pharmacokinetic parameters. Significant differences in Cmax (p = 0.030) and AUC0–24h (p = 0.011) values were observed based on acetylator status. Treatment was well tolerated, and no severe adverse events were observed; three patients developed asymptomatic mildly elevated alanine aminotransferase levels. Conclusions: In infants and children receiving a daily INH suspension at 10 mg/kg, no safety concerns were raised, and the target adult levels were reached in the majority of patients. Full article
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<p>Isoniazid serum concentrations (in mg/L) according to <span class="html-italic">NAT</span>2 genotyping by acetylator type. (<b>A</b>) <span class="html-italic">NAT</span>2 homozygous slow genotype; (<b>B</b>) <span class="html-italic">NAT</span>2 heterozygous intermediate genotype; and (<b>C</b>) <span class="html-italic">NAT</span>2 homozygous fast genotype. Each line represents one patient.</p>
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22 pages, 9142 KiB  
Article
Ethyl Acetate Extract of Cichorium glandulosum Activates the P21/Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway to Alleviate Oxidative Stress in a Mouse Model of Alcoholic Liver Disease
by Shuwen Qi, Chunzi Zhang, Junlin Yan, Xiaoyan Ma, Yewei Zhong, Wenhui Hou, Juan Zhang, Tuxia Pang and Xiaoli Ma
Metabolites 2025, 15(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15010041 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 470
Abstract
Background: Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a significant global health concern, primarily resulting from chronic alcohol consumption, with oxidative stress as a key driver. The ethyl acetate extract of Cichorium glandulosum (CGE) exhibits antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, but its detailed mechanism of action [...] Read more.
Background: Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a significant global health concern, primarily resulting from chronic alcohol consumption, with oxidative stress as a key driver. The ethyl acetate extract of Cichorium glandulosum (CGE) exhibits antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, but its detailed mechanism of action against ALD remains unclear. This study investigates the effects and mechanisms of CGE in alleviating alcohol-induced oxidative stress and liver injury. Methods: Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Quadrupole-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS) was used to identify CGE components. A C57BL/6J mouse model of ALD was established via daily oral ethanol (56%) for six weeks, with CGE treatment at low (100 mg/kg) and high doses (200 mg/kg). Silibinin (100 mg/kg) served as a positive control. Liver function markers, oxidative stress indicators, and inflammatory markers were assessed. Transcriptomic and network pharmacology analyses identified key genes and pathways, validated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. Results: UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS identified 81 CGE compounds, mainly including terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenylpropanoids. CGE significantly ameliorated liver injury by reducing alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and enhancing antioxidative markers such as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) while lowering hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Inflammation was mitigated through reduced levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-1 Beta (IL-1β), and C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 10 (CXCL-10). Transcriptomic and network pharmacology analysis revealed seven key antioxidant-related genes, including HMOX1, RSAD2, BCL6, CDKN1A, THBD, SLC2A4, and TGFβ3, validated by RT-qPCR. CGE activated the P21/Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Nrf2)/Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling axis, increasing P21, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein levels while suppressing Kelch-like ECH-associated Protein 1 (Keap1) expression. Conclusions: CGE mitigates oxidative stress and liver injury by activating the P21/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and regulating antioxidant genes. Its hepatoprotective effects and multi-target mechanisms highlight CGE’s potential as a promising therapeutic candidate for ALD treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plants and Plant-Based Foods for Metabolic Disease Prevention)
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<p>Total ion chromatogram (TIC).</p>
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<p>Proposed fragmentation pathways of representative compounds. (<b>A</b>) Secondary mass spectra of lactucin and its proposed fragmentation pathways. (<b>B</b>) Secondary mass spectra of isoquercitrin and its proposed fragmentation pathways. (<b>C</b>) Secondary mass spectra of fraxin and its proposed fragmentation pathways.</p>
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<p>CGE alleviates alcohol-induced liver injury and enhances antioxidative stress levels in mice. (<b>A</b>). Animal experiment design. (<b>B</b>). The effects of CGE on the body weight of ALD mice. (<b>C</b>). The effects of CGE on the liver index of ALD mice. (<b>D</b>). Liver tissue H&amp;E staining (200×, scale bar = 100 μm). (<b>E</b>). The effects of CGE on serum AST levels in ALD mice. (<b>F</b>). The effects of CGE on serum ALT levels in ALD mice. (<b>G</b>). The effects of CGE on serum ALP levels in ALD mice. (<b>H</b>). The effects of CGE on hepatic TNF-α levels in ALD mice. (<b>I</b>). The effects of CGE on hepatic IL-1β levels in ALD mice. (<b>J</b>). The effects of CGE on hepatic CXCL-10 levels in ALD mice. (<b>K</b>). The effects of CGE on serum T-AOC levels in ALD mice. (<b>L</b>). The effects of CGE on serum T-SOD levels in ALD mice. (<b>M</b>). The effects of CGE on hepatic MDA levels in ALD mice. Data are presented as mean ± SD (n = 6). Relative to the control group, <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and <sup>###</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001; relative to the model group, * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>Differential gene screening, enrichment analysis, and identification of key antioxidative genes from transcriptomics. (<b>A</b>). Volcano plot for Con vs. Mod. (<b>B</b>). Volcano plot for Mod vs. CGE-H. (<b>C</b>). Number of markedly upregulated and downregulated genes within the Con vs. Mod and Mod vs. CGE-H groups. (<b>D</b>). Venn diagram of DEGs from Con vs. Mod, DEGs from Mod vs. CGE-H, and oxidative stress-related genes. (<b>E</b>). Bubble chart of GO analysis for CGE’s potential antioxidative stress-related genes. (<b>F</b>). Sankey diagram of KEGG pathways for CGE’s potential antioxidative stress genes. (<b>G</b>). PPI network of 130 genes associated with antioxidative stress under CGE regulation. (<b>H</b>). Identification of the top 20 key genes using the Degree algorithm in the cytoHubba plugin. Lines between circles represent interactions between genes, and circle colors ranging from red to yellow indicate interaction strength from high to low. (<b>I</b>). Using the GeneMANIA database, four genes interacting with <span class="html-italic">NFE2L2</span> were identified from the 20 key genes.</p>
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<p>Mechanisms of CGE against ALD-induced oxidative damage identified via network pharmacology analysis. (<b>A</b>). Venn diagram of oxidative stress-related genes, CGE differential genes, and ALD genes, identifying potential gene targets of CGE against ALD-induced oxidative stress. (<b>B</b>). CGE compound–target network diagram. (<b>C</b>). GO analysis for potential genes of CGE against ALD-induced oxidative stress. (<b>D</b>). KEGG analysis for potential genes of CGE against ALD-induced oxidative stress.</p>
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<p>Integrated analysis of transcriptomics, network pharmacology, and key antioxidative genes. (<b>A</b>). KEGG Sankey diagram of the top 20 key genes identified using the Degree algorithm in the cytoHubba plugin. (<b>B</b>). Intersection pathways of network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and antioxidative core genes.</p>
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<p>The validation of key antioxidative stress genes regulated by CGE. (<b>A</b>–<b>G</b>). Relative mRNA expression levels of <span class="html-italic">HMOX1</span>, <span class="html-italic">CDKN1A</span>, <span class="html-italic">THBD</span>, <span class="html-italic">RSAD</span>, <span class="html-italic">SLC2A4</span>, <span class="html-italic">BCL6</span>, <span class="html-italic">TGFβ3</span>. The results are presented as mean ± SD (n = 6). Relative to the control group, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, <sup>###</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001; relative to the model group, * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>The process through which CGE mitigates oxidative stress in ALD mice involves the activation of the P21/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. (<b>A</b>). The analysis of protein expression levels and quantification for Nrf2, Keap1, HMOX1, and P21 in liver tissue. The results are presented as mean ± SD (n = 6). Statistical significance is indicated as follows: <sup>#</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, <sup>##</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and <sup>###</sup> <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001 compared to the control group; ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, and *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001 compared to the model group. (<b>B</b>). CGE activates the P21/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to reduce oxidative stress in ALD mice.</p>
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