Journal Description
Biology
Biology
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of biological sciences published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society for Nitrogen Fixation (SEFIN) and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) are affiliated with Biology, and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Biology) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Agricultural and Biological Sciences)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Ploidy’s Role in Daylily Plant Resilience to Drought Stress Challenges
Biology 2024, 13(5), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050289 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to understand the differences in the performance of diploid and tetraploid daylily cultivars under water deficit conditions, which are essential indicators of drought tolerance. This research revealed that tetraploid daylilies performed better than diploid varieties in arid conditions due to
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to understand the differences in the performance of diploid and tetraploid daylily cultivars under water deficit conditions, which are essential indicators of drought tolerance. This research revealed that tetraploid daylilies performed better than diploid varieties in arid conditions due to their enhanced adaptability and resilience to water deficit conditions. The analysis of the results highlighted the need to clarify the specific physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the enhanced drought tolerance observed in tetraploid plants compared to diploids. This research offers valuable knowledge for improving crop resilience and sustainable floricultural practices in changing environmental conditions. The morphological and physiological parameters were analyzed in 19 diploid and 21 tetraploid daylily cultivars under controlled water deficit conditions, and three drought resistance groups were formed based on the clustering of these parameters. In a high drought resistance cluster, 93.3% tetraploid cultivars were exhibited. This study demonstrates the significance of ploidy in shaping plant responses to drought stress. It emphasizes the importance of studying plant responses to water deficit in landscape horticulture to develop drought-tolerant plants and ensure aspects of climate change.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Abiotic Stress in Plants and Resilience: Recent Advances)
Open AccessReview
Chemical Constituents and Their Bioactivities of Plants from the Genus Eupatorium (2015–Present)
by
Hao Geng
Biology 2024, 13(5), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050288 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
The genus Eupatorium belongs to the Asteraceae (Compositae) family and has multiple properties, such as invasiveness and toxicity, and is used in folk medicine. The last review on the chemical constituents of this genus and their biological activities was published in 2015. The
[...] Read more.
The genus Eupatorium belongs to the Asteraceae (Compositae) family and has multiple properties, such as invasiveness and toxicity, and is used in folk medicine. The last review on the chemical constituents of this genus and their biological activities was published in 2015. The present review provides an overview of 192 natural products discovered from 2015 to the present. These products include 63 sesquiterpenoids, 53 benzofuran derivatives, 39 thymol derivatives, 15 fatty acids, 7 diterpenoids, 5 monoterpenoids, 4 acetophenones, and 6 other compounds. We also characterized their respective chemical structures and cytotoxic, antifungal, insecticidal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive activities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
Reproductive Cessation and Post-Reproductive Lifespan in Honeybee Workers
by
Karolina Kuszewska, Anna Woloszczuk and Michal Woyciechowski
Biology 2024, 13(5), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050287 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
The post-reproductive lifespan is an evolutionary enigma because the cessation of reproduction in animals seems contrary to the maximization of Darwinian fitness. Several theories aim to explain the evolution of menopause, one of which suggests that females of a certain age receive more
[...] Read more.
The post-reproductive lifespan is an evolutionary enigma because the cessation of reproduction in animals seems contrary to the maximization of Darwinian fitness. Several theories aim to explain the evolution of menopause, one of which suggests that females of a certain age receive more fitness benefits via indirect selection (kin selection) than they would directly from continuing reproduction. Post-reproductive lifespans are not very common in nature but have been described in humans, nonhuman primates, a few species of toothed whales, guppies, and in some insect societies consisting of clonal colony members, such as aphid and ant societies. Here, we provide evidence that menopause also exists in honeybee societies. Our study shows that workers with a short life expectancy (older and/or injured workers) invest fewer resources and less time in their own reproduction than workers with a long life expectancy (younger and/or uninjured workers), even if their colony is hopelessly queenless. These results are consistent with the kin selection explanation for the evolution of menopause and help us understand the net effects of relatedness and social cooperation in animals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Behavioural Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Satam et al. Next-Generation Sequencing Technology: Current Trends and Advancements. Biology 2023, 12, 997
by
Heena Satam, Kandarp Joshi, Upasana Mangrolia, Sanober Waghoo, Gulnaz Zaidi, Shravani Rawool, Ritesh P. Thakare, Shahid Banday, Alok K. Mishra, Gautam Das and Sunil K. Malonia
Biology 2024, 13(5), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050286 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
We are very thankful to the commentator for pointing out the issues in the review article by Satam et al [...]
Full article
Figure 2
Open AccessArticle
Cellular Response of Adapted and Non-Adapted Tetrahymena thermophila Strains to Europium Eu(III) Compounds
by
Patricia Alonso, Javier Blas, Francisco Amaro, Patricia de Francisco, Ana Martín-González and Juan Carlos Gutiérrez
Biology 2024, 13(5), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050285 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Europium is one of the most reactive lanthanides and humans use it in many different applications, but we still know little about its potential toxicity and cellular response to its exposure. Two strains of the eukaryotic microorganism model Tetrahymena thermophila were adapted to
[...] Read more.
Europium is one of the most reactive lanthanides and humans use it in many different applications, but we still know little about its potential toxicity and cellular response to its exposure. Two strains of the eukaryotic microorganism model Tetrahymena thermophila were adapted to high concentrations of two Eu(III) compounds (EuCl3 or Eu2O3) and compared to a control strain and cultures treated with both compounds. In this ciliate, EuCl3 is more toxic than Eu2O3. LC50 values show that this microorganism is more resistant to these Eu(III) compounds than other microorganisms. Oxidative stress originated mainly by Eu2O3 is minimized by overexpression of genes encoding important antioxidant enzymes. The overexpression of metallothionein genes under treatment with Eu(III) compounds supports the possibility that this lanthanide may interact with the -SH groups of the cysteine residues from metallothioneins and/or displace essential cations of these proteins during their homeostatic function. Both lipid metabolism (lipid droplets fusing with europium-containing vacuoles) and autophagy are involved in the cellular response to europium stress. Bioaccumulation, together with a possible biomineralization to europium phosphate, seems to be the main mechanism of Eu(III) detoxification in these cells.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Microbial Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Potential Role of Pig UCP3 in Modulating Adipocyte Browning via the Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Signaling Pathway
by
Sangwoo Kim, Takashi Yazawa, Akari Koide, Erina Yoneda, Risa Aoki, Tatsuki Okazaki, Kisaki Tomita, Hiroyuki Watanabe, Yoshikage Muroi, Masafumi Testuka and Yuki Muranishi
Biology 2024, 13(5), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050284 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Adipose tissue plays an important role in regulating body temperature and metabolism, with white adipocytes serving as storage units for energy. Recent research focused on the browning of white adipocytes (beige adipocytes), causing thermogenesis and lipolysis. The process of browning is linked to
[...] Read more.
Adipose tissue plays an important role in regulating body temperature and metabolism, with white adipocytes serving as storage units for energy. Recent research focused on the browning of white adipocytes (beige adipocytes), causing thermogenesis and lipolysis. The process of browning is linked to the activation of uncoupling protein (UCP) expression, which can be mediated by the β3 adrenergic receptor pathway. Transcriptional factors, such as peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and PPARγ coactivator 1 alpha, play vital roles in cell fate determination for fat cells. Beige adipocytes have metabolic therapeutic potential to combat diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, owing to their significant impact on metabolic functions. However, the molecular mechanisms that cause the induction of browning are unclear. Therefore, research using animal models and primary culture is essential to provide an understanding of browning for further application in human metabolic studies. Pigs have physiological similarities to humans; hence, they are valuable models for research on adipose tissue. This study demonstrates the browning potential of pig white adipocytes through primary culture experiments. The results show that upregulation of UCP3 gene expression and fragmentation of lipid droplets into smaller particles occur due to isoproterenol stimulation, which activates beta-adrenergic receptor signaling. Furthermore, PPARγ and PGC-1α were found to activate the UCP3 promoter region, similar to that of UCP1. These findings suggest that pigs undergo metabolic changes that induce browning in white adipocytes, providing a promising approach for metabolic research with potential implications for human health. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanism of adipocyte browning using pig primary culture that can enhance our understanding of human metabolism, leading to cures for commonly occurring diseases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Muscle Transcriptome Analysis of Mink at Different Growth Stages Using RNA-Seq
by
Min Rong, Xiumei Xing and Ranran Zhang
Biology 2024, 13(5), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050283 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Mink is a kind of small and precious fur animal resource. In this study, we employed transcriptomics technology to analyze the gene expression profile of mink pectoral muscle tissue, thereby elucidating the regulatory mechanisms underlying mink growth and development. Consequently, a total of
[...] Read more.
Mink is a kind of small and precious fur animal resource. In this study, we employed transcriptomics technology to analyze the gene expression profile of mink pectoral muscle tissue, thereby elucidating the regulatory mechanisms underlying mink growth and development. Consequently, a total of 25,954 gene expression profiles were acquired throughout the growth and development stages of mink at 45, 90, and 120 days. Among these profiles, 2607 genes exhibited significant differential expression (|log2(fold change)| ≥ 2 and p_adj < 0.05). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the differentially expressed genes were primarily associated with the mitotic cell cycle process, response to growth factors, muscle organ development, and insulin resistance. Furthermore, GSEA enrichment analysis demonstrated a significant enrichment of differentially expressed genes in the p53 signaling pathway at 45 days of age. Subsequent analysis revealed that genes associated with embryonic development (e.g., PEG10, IGF2, NRK), cell cycle regulation (e.g., CDK6, CDC6, CDC27, CCNA2), and the FGF family (e.g., FGF2, FGF6, FGFR2) were all found to be upregulated at 45 days of age in mink, which suggested a potential role for these genes in governing early growth and developmental processes. Conversely, genes associated with skeletal muscle development (PRVA, TNNI1, TNNI2, MYL3, MUSTN1), a negative regulator of the cell cycle gene (CDKN2C), and IGFBP6 were found to be up-regulated at 90 days of age, suggesting their potential involvement in the rapid growth of mink. In summary, our experimental data provide robust support for elucidating the regulatory mechanisms underlying the growth and development of mink.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Zoology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Genomic Diversity and Recombination Analysis of the Spike Protein Gene from Selected Human Coronaviruses
by
Sayed Sartaj Sohrab, Fatima Alsaqaf, Ahmed Mohamed Hassan, Ahmed Majdi Tolah, Leena Hussein Bajrai and Esam Ibraheem Azhar
Biology 2024, 13(4), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040282 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are seriously associated with respiratory diseases in humans and animals. The first human pathogenic SARS-CoV emerged in 2002–2003. The second was MERS-CoV, reported from Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in 2012, and the third one was SARS-CoV-2, identified from
[...] Read more.
Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are seriously associated with respiratory diseases in humans and animals. The first human pathogenic SARS-CoV emerged in 2002–2003. The second was MERS-CoV, reported from Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in 2012, and the third one was SARS-CoV-2, identified from Wuhan City, China, in late December 2019. The HCoV-Spike (S) gene has the highest mutation/insertion/deletion rate and has been the most utilized target for vaccine/antiviral development. In this manuscript, we discuss the genetic diversity, phylogenetic relationships, and recombination patterns of selected HCoVs with emphasis on the S protein gene of MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 to elucidate the possible emergence of new variants/strains of coronavirus in the near future. The findings showed that MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 have significant sequence identity with the selected HCoVs. The phylogenetic tree analysis formed a separate cluster for each HCoV. The recombination pattern analysis showed that the HCoV-NL63-Japan was a probable recombinant. The HCoV-NL63-USA was identified as a major parent while the HCoV-NL63-Netherland was identified as a minor parent. The recombination breakpoints start in the viral genome at the 142 nucleotide position and end at the 1082 nucleotide position with a 99% CI and Bonferroni-corrected p-value of 0.05. The findings of this study provide insightful information about HCoV-S gene diversity, recombination, and evolutionary patterns. Based on these data, it can be concluded that the possible emergence of new strains/variants of HCoV is imminent.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue SARS-CoV-2 and Immunology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Toxicity of Ammonia Stress on the Physiological Homeostasis in the Gills of Litopenaeus vannamei under Seawater and Low-Salinity Conditions
by
Yuxiu Nan, Meng Xiao, Yafei Duan and Yukai Yang
Biology 2024, 13(4), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040281 - 21 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ammonia is a major water quality factor influencing the survival and health of shrimp, among which the gill is the main effector organ for ammonia toxicity. In this study, we chose two types of Litopenaeus vannamei that were cultured in 30‰ seawater and
[...] Read more.
Ammonia is a major water quality factor influencing the survival and health of shrimp, among which the gill is the main effector organ for ammonia toxicity. In this study, we chose two types of Litopenaeus vannamei that were cultured in 30‰ seawater and domesticated in 3‰ low salinity, respectively, and then separately subjected to ammonia stress for 14 days under seawater and low-salinity conditions, of which the 3‰ low salinity-cultured shrimp were domesticated from the shrimp cultured in 30‰ seawater after 27 days of gradual salinity desalination. In detail, this study included four groups, namely the SC group (ammonia-N 0 mg/L, salinity 30‰), SAN group (ammonia-N 10 mg/L, salinity 30‰), LC group (ammonia-N 0 mg/L, salinity 3‰), and LAN group (ammonia-N 10 mg/L, salinity 3‰). The ammonia stress lasted for 14 days, and then the changes in the morphological structure and physiological function of the gills were explored. The results show that ammonia stress caused the severe contraction of gill filaments and the deformation or even rupture of gill vessels. Biochemical indicators of oxidative stress, including LPO and MDA contents, as well as T-AOC and GST activities, were increased in the SAN and LAN groups, while the activities of CAT and POD and the mRNA expression levels of antioxidant-related genes (nrf2, cat, gpx, hsp70, and trx) were decreased. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of the genes involved in ER stress (ire1 and xbp1), apoptosis (casp-3, casp-9, and jnk), detoxification (gst, ugt, and sult), glucose metabolism (pdh, hk, pk, and ldh), and the tricarboxylic acid cycle (mdh, cs, idh, and odh) were decreased in the SAN and LAN groups; the levels of electron-transport chain-related genes (ndh, cco, and coi), and the bip and sdh genes were decreased in the SAN group but increased in the LAN group; and the level of the ATPase gene was decreased but the cytc gene was increased in the SAN and LAN groups. The mRNA expression levels of osmotic regulation-related genes (nka-β, ca, aqp and clc) were decreased in the SAN group, while the level of the ca gene was increased in the LAN group; the nka-α gene was decreased in both two groups. The results demonstrate that ammonia stress could influence the physiological homeostasis of the shrimp gills, possibly by damaging the tissue morphology, and affecting the redox, ER function, apoptosis, detoxification, energy metabolism, and osmoregulation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic and Stress Responses in Aquatic Animals)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Genome-Wide Analysis of the HSF Gene Family Reveals Its Role in Astragalus mongholicus under Different Light Conditions
by
Zhen Wang, Panpan Wang, Jiajun He, Lingyang Kong, Wenwei Zhang, Weili Liu, Xiubo Liu and Wei Ma
Biology 2024, 13(4), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040280 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Astragalus mongholicus is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with important medicinal value and is widely used worldwide. Heat shock (HSF) transcription factors are among the most important transcription factors in plants and are involved in the transcriptional regulation of various stress responses, including
[...] Read more.
Astragalus mongholicus is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with important medicinal value and is widely used worldwide. Heat shock (HSF) transcription factors are among the most important transcription factors in plants and are involved in the transcriptional regulation of various stress responses, including drought, salinity, oxidation, osmotic stress, and high light, thereby regulating growth and developmental processes. However, the HFS gene family has not yet been identified in A. mongholicus, and little is known regarding the role of HSF genes in A. mongholicus. This study is based on whole genome analysis of A. mongholicus, identifying a total of 22 AmHSF genes and analyzing their physicochemical properties. Divided into three subgroups based on phylogenetic and gene structural characteristics, including subgroup A (12), subgroup B (9), and subgroup C (1), they are randomly distributed in 8 out of 9 chromosomes of A. mongholicus. In addition, transcriptome data and quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses revealed that AmHSF was differentially transcribed in different tissues, suggesting that AmHSF gene functions may differ. Red and blue light treatment significantly affected the expression of 20 HSF genes in soilless cultivation of A. mongholicus seedlings. AmHSF3, AmHSF3, AmHSF11, AmHSF12, and AmHSF14 were upregulated after red light and blue light treatment, and these genes all had light-corresponding cis-elements, suggesting that AmHSF genes play an important role in the light response of A. mongholicus. Although the responses of soilless-cultivated A. mongholicus seedlings to red and blue light may not represent the mature stage, our results provide fundamental research for future elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms of HSF in the growth and development of A. mongholicus and its response to different light conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
When Nature Requires a Resource to Be Used—The Case of Callinectes sapidus: Distribution, Aggregation Patterns, and Spatial Structure in Northwest Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and Adjacent Waters
by
Luca Castriota, Manuela Falautano and Patrizia Perzia
Biology 2024, 13(4), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040279 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus, which is native to the western Atlantic coast and listed among the 100 most invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea, is attracting a great deal of interest because of its rapid colonisation of new areas,
[...] Read more.
The Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus, which is native to the western Atlantic coast and listed among the 100 most invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea, is attracting a great deal of interest because of its rapid colonisation of new areas, the significant increase in its population, and the impacts it may have on ecosystems and ecosystem services. Outside its natural distribution range, the species was first found on European Atlantic coasts in the early 1900s and was introduced into the Mediterranean Sea a few decades later, probably through ballast water. Currently, it is found in almost the entire Mediterranean Basin and is also expanding into the Black Sea and along the north African and Iberian Atlantic coasts. Based on a systematic review of C. sapidus occurrences, this study describes its distribution, aggregation patterns, and spatial structure in Northwest Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and adjacent waters through a series of ecological indicators elaborated using GIS spatial–temporal statistics. The main results highlight that the species is expanding in the Mediterranean and adjacent waters, while in northern Europe, the population remains confined in some areas. Furthermore, the main species detection methods are analysed, finding that traps and nets are the most frequently used methods, and management suggestions are provided.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alien Marine Species in the Mediterranean Sea)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Impaired Spermatogenesis in Infertile Patients with Orchitis and Experimental Autoimmune Orchitis in Rats
by
María Sofía Amarilla, Leilane Glienke, Thaisy Munduruca Pires, Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo, Hernán Gustavo Oxilia, María Florencia Fulco, Marcelo Rodríguez Peña, María Belén Maio, Denisse Ferrer Viñals, Livia Lustig, Patricia Verónica Jacobo and María Susana Theas
Biology 2024, 13(4), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040278 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a well-established rodent model of organ-specific autoimmunity associated with infertility in which the testis immunohistopathology has been extensively studied. In contrast, analysis of testis biopsies from infertile patients associated with inflammation has been more limited. In this work,
[...] Read more.
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a well-established rodent model of organ-specific autoimmunity associated with infertility in which the testis immunohistopathology has been extensively studied. In contrast, analysis of testis biopsies from infertile patients associated with inflammation has been more limited. In this work, testicular biopsies from patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia diagnosed with hypospermatogenesis (HypoSp) [mild: n = 9, and severe: n = 11], with obstructive azoospermia and complete Sp (spermatogenesis) (control group, C, n = 9), and from Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS, n = 9) were analyzed for the presence of immune cells, spermatogonia and Sertoli cell (SCs) alterations, and reproductive hormones levels. These parameters were compared with those obtained in rats with EAO. The presence of increased CD45+ cells in the seminiferous tubules (STs) wall and lumen in severe HypoSp is associated with increased numbers of apoptotic meiotic germ cells and decreased populations of undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonia. The SCs showed an immature profile with the highest expression of AMH in patients with SCOS and severe HypoSp. In SCOS patients, the amount of SCs/ST and Ki67+ SCs/ST increased and correlated with high serum FSH levels and CD45+ cells. In the severe phase of EAO, immune cell infiltration and apoptosis of meiotic germ cells increased and the number of undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonia was lowest, as previously reported. Here, we found that orchitis leads to reduced sperm number, viability, and motility. SCs were mature (AMH-) but increased in number, with Ki67+ observed in severely damaged STs and associated with the highest levels of FSH and inflammatory cells. Our findings demonstrate that in a scenario where a chronic inflammatory process is underway, FSH levels, immune cell infiltration, and immature phenotypes of SCs are associated with severe changes in spermatogenesis, leading to azoospermia. Furthermore, AMH and Ki67 expression in SCs is a distinctive marker of severe alterations of STs in human orchitis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathophysiology of Testis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Utilizing 5′ UTR Engineering Enables Fine-Tuning of Multiple Genes within Operons to Balance Metabolic Flux in Bacillus subtilis
by
Jiajia You, Yifan Wang, Kang Wang, Yuxuan Du, Xiaoling Zhang, Xian Zhang, Taowei Yang, Xuewei Pan and Zhiming Rao
Biology 2024, 13(4), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040277 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The application of synthetic biology tools to modulate gene expression to increase yield has been thoroughly demonstrated as an effective and convenient approach in industrial production. In this study, we employed a high-throughput screening strategy to identify a 5′ UTR sequence from the
[...] Read more.
The application of synthetic biology tools to modulate gene expression to increase yield has been thoroughly demonstrated as an effective and convenient approach in industrial production. In this study, we employed a high-throughput screening strategy to identify a 5′ UTR sequence from the genome of B. subtilis 168. This sequence resulted in a 5.8-fold increase in the expression level of EGFP. By utilizing the 5′ UTR sequence to overexpress individual genes within the rib operon, it was determined that the genes ribD and ribAB serve as rate-limiting enzymes in the riboflavin synthesis pathway. Constructing a 5′ UTR library to regulate EGFP expression resulted in a variation range in gene expression levels exceeding 100-fold. Employing the same 5′ UTR library to regulate the expression of EGFP and mCherry within the operon led to a change in the expression ratio of these two genes by over 10,000-fold. So, employing a 5′ UTR library to modulate the expression of the rib operon gene and construct a synthetic rib operon resulted in a 2.09-fold increase in riboflavin production. These results indicate that the 5′ UTR sequence identified and characterized in this study can serve as a versatile synthetic biology toolkit for achieving complex metabolic network reconstruction. This toolkit can facilitate the fine-tuning of gene expression to produce target products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biotechnology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Dissecting Holistic Metabolic Acclimatization of Mucor circinelloides WJ11 Defective in Carotenoid Biosynthesis
by
Fanyue Li, Roypim Thananusak, Nachon Raethong, Junhuan Yang, Mingyue Wei, Xingtang Zhao, Kobkul Laoteng, Yuanda Song and Wanwipa Vongsangnak
Biology 2024, 13(4), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040276 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Mucor circinelloides WJ11 is a lipid-producing strain with industrial potential. A holistic approach using gene manipulation and bioprocessing development has improved lipid production and the strain’s economic viability. However, the systematic regulation of lipid accumulation and carotenoid biosynthesis in M. circinelloides remains unknown.
[...] Read more.
Mucor circinelloides WJ11 is a lipid-producing strain with industrial potential. A holistic approach using gene manipulation and bioprocessing development has improved lipid production and the strain’s economic viability. However, the systematic regulation of lipid accumulation and carotenoid biosynthesis in M. circinelloides remains unknown. To dissect the metabolic mechanism underlying lipid and carotenoid biosynthesis, transcriptome analysis and reporter metabolites identification were implemented between the wild-type (WJ11) and ΔcarRP WJ11 strains of M. circinelloides. As a result, transcriptome analysis revealed 10,287 expressed genes, with 657 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) primarily involved in amino acid, carbohydrate, and energy metabolism. Integration with a genome-scale metabolic model (GSMM) identified reporter metabolites in the ΔcarRP WJ11 strain, highlighting metabolic pathways crucial for amino acid, energy, and nitrogen metabolism. Notably, the downregulation of genes associated with carotenoid biosynthesis and acetyl-CoA generation suggests a coordinated relationship between the carotenoid and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways. Despite disruptions in the carotenoid pathway, lipid production remains stagnant due to reduced acetyl-CoA availability, emphasizing the intricate metabolic interplay. These findings provide insights into the coordinated relationship between carotenoid and fatty acid biosynthesis in M. circinelloides that are valuable in applied research to design optimized strains for producing desired bioproducts through emerging technology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Impacts of Invasive Plants on Native Vegetation Communities in Wetland and Stream Mitigation
by
Douglas A. DeBerry and Dakota M. Hunter
Biology 2024, 13(4), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040275 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
We sampled vegetation communities across plant invasion gradients at multiple wetland and stream mitigation sites in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont physiographic provinces of Virginia, USA. Impacts of invasion were evaluated by tracking changes in species composition and native vegetation community properties along
[...] Read more.
We sampled vegetation communities across plant invasion gradients at multiple wetland and stream mitigation sites in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont physiographic provinces of Virginia, USA. Impacts of invasion were evaluated by tracking changes in species composition and native vegetation community properties along the abundance gradients of multiple plant invaders. We found that native species richness, diversity, and floristic quality were consistently highest at moderate levels of invasion (ca. 5–10% relative abundance of invader), regardless of the identity of the invasive species or the type of mitigation (wetland or stream). Likewise, native species composition was similar between uninvaded and moderately invaded areas, and only diminished when invaders were present at higher abundance values. Currently, low thresholds for invasive species performance standards (e.g., below 5% relative abundance of invader) compel mitigation managers to use non-selective control methods such as herbicides to reduce invasive plant cover. Our results suggest that this could cause indiscriminate mortality of desirable native species at much higher levels of richness, diversity, and floristic quality than previously thought. From our data, we recommend an invasive species performance standard of 10% relative invader(s) abundance on wetland and stream mitigation sites, in combination with vigilant invasive plant mapping strategies. Based on our results, this slightly higher standard would strike a balance between proactive management and unnecessary loss of plant community functions at the hands of compulsory invasive species management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Ecology and Management of Invasive Alien Plants)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Female-Biased General Odorant Binding Protein 2 of Semiothisa cinerearia Displays Binding Affinity for Biologically Active Host Plant Volatiles
by
Jingjing Tu, Zehua Wang, Fan Yang, Han Liu, Guanghang Qiao, Aihuan Zhang and Shanning Wang
Biology 2024, 13(4), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040274 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Herbivorous insects rely on volatile chemical cues from host plants to locate food sources and oviposition sites. General odorant binding proteins (GOBPs) are believed to be involved in the detection of host plant volatiles. In the present study, one GOBP gene, ScinGOBP2,
[...] Read more.
Herbivorous insects rely on volatile chemical cues from host plants to locate food sources and oviposition sites. General odorant binding proteins (GOBPs) are believed to be involved in the detection of host plant volatiles. In the present study, one GOBP gene, ScinGOBP2, was cloned from the antennae of adult Semiothisa cinerearia. Reverse-transcription PCR and real-time quantitative PCR analysis revealed that the expression of ScinGOBP2 was strongly biased towards the female antennae. Fluorescence-based competitive binding assays revealed that 8 of the 27 host plant volatiles, including geranyl acetone, decanal, cis-3-hexenyl n-valerate, cis-3-hexenyl butyrate, 1-nonene, dipentene, α-pinene and β-pinene, bound to ScinGOBP2 (KD = 2.21–14.94 μM). The electrical activities of all eight ScinGOBP2 ligands were confirmed using electroantennography. Furthermore, oviposition preference experiments showed that eight host volatiles, such as decanal, cis-3-hexenyl n-valerate, cis-3-hexenyl butyrate, and α-pinene, had an attractive effect on female S. cinerearia, whereas geranyl acetone, 1-nonene, β-pinene, and dipentene inhibited oviposition in females. Consequently, it can be postulated that ScinGOBP2 may be implicated in the perception of host plant volatiles and that ScinGOBP2 ligands represent significant semiochemicals mediating the interactions between plants and S. cinerearia. This insight could facilitate the development of a chemical ecology-based approach for the management of S. cinerearia.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Potential of a Bead-Based Multiplex Assay for SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Detection
by
Karla Rottmayer, Mandy Schwarze, Christian Jassoy, Ralf Hoffmann, Henry Loeffler-Wirth and Claudia Lehmann
Biology 2024, 13(4), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040273 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Serological assays for SARS-CoV-2 play a pivotal role in the definition of whether patients are infected, the understanding of viral epidemiology, the screening of convalescent sera for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, and in obtaining a better understanding of the immune response towards the
[...] Read more.
Serological assays for SARS-CoV-2 play a pivotal role in the definition of whether patients are infected, the understanding of viral epidemiology, the screening of convalescent sera for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, and in obtaining a better understanding of the immune response towards the virus. The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of a bead-based multiplex assay. This assay allowed for the simultaneous testing of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike, S1, S2, RBD, and nucleocapsid moieties and S1 of seasonal coronaviruses hCoV-22E, hCoV-HKU1, hCoV-NL63, and hCoV-OC43, as well as MERS and SARS-CoV. We compared the bead-based multiplex assay with commercial ELISA tests. We tested the sera of 27 SARS-CoV-2 PCR-positive individuals who were previously tested with different ELISA assays. Additionally, we investigated the reproducibility of the results by means of multiple testing of the same sera. Finally, the results were correlated with neutralising assays. In summary, the concordance of the qualitative results ranged between 78% and 96% depending on the ELISA assay and the specific antigen. Repeated freezing–thawing cycles resulted in reduced mean fluorescence intensity, while the storage period had no influence in this respect. In our test cohort, we detected up to 36% of sera positive for the development of neutralising antibodies, which is in concordance with the bead-based multiplex and IgG ELISA.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Multiomics Picture of Obesity in Young Adults
by
Olga I. Kiseleva, Mikhail A. Pyatnitskiy, Viktoriia A. Arzumanian, Ilya Y. Kurbatov, Valery V. Ilinsky, Ekaterina V. Ilgisonis, Oksana A. Plotnikova, Khaider K. Sharafetdinov, Victor A. Tutelyan, Dmitry B. Nikityuk, Elena A. Ponomarenko and Ekaterina V. Poverennaya
Biology 2024, 13(4), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040272 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Obesity is a socially significant disease that is characterized by a disproportionate accumulation of fat. It is also associated with chronic inflammation, cancer, diabetes, and other comorbidities. Investigating biomarkers and pathological processes linked to obesity is especially vital for young individuals, given their
[...] Read more.
Obesity is a socially significant disease that is characterized by a disproportionate accumulation of fat. It is also associated with chronic inflammation, cancer, diabetes, and other comorbidities. Investigating biomarkers and pathological processes linked to obesity is especially vital for young individuals, given their increased potential for lifestyle modifications. By comparing the genetic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiles of individuals categorized as underweight, normal, overweight, and obese, we aimed to determine which omics layer most accurately reflects the phenotypic changes in an organism that result from obesity. We profiled blood plasma samples by employing three omics methodologies. The untargeted GC×GC–MS metabolomics approach identified 313 metabolites. To augment the metabolomic dataset, we integrated a label-free HPLC–MS/MS proteomics method, leading to the identification of 708 proteins. The genomic layer encompassed the genotyping of 647,250 SNPs. Utilizing omics data, we trained sparse Partial Least Squares models to predict body mass index. Molecular features exhibiting frequently non-zero coefficients were selected as potential biomarkers, and we further explored enriched biological pathways. Proteomics was the most effective in single-omics analyses, with a median absolute error (MAE) of 5.44 ± 0.31 kg/m2, incorporating an average of 24 proteins per model. Metabolomics showed slightly lower performance (MAE = 6.06 ± 0.33 kg/m2), followed by genomics (MAE = 6.20 ± 0.34 kg/m2). As expected, multiomic models demonstrated better accuracy, particularly the combination of proteomics and metabolomics (MAE = 4.77 ± 0.33 kg/m2), while including genomics data did not enhance the results. This manuscript is the first multiomics study of obesity in a gender-balanced cohort of young adults profiled by genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic methods. The comprehensive approach provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of obesity, opening avenues for more targeted interventions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Omics Co-expression Network Analysis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Systemic Effects of a Phage Cocktail on Healthy Weaned Piglets
by
Yankun Liu, Yan Lin and Weiyun Zhu
Biology 2024, 13(4), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040271 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that bacteriophages (phages) can effectively treat intestinal bacterial infections. However, research on the impact of phages on overall body health once they enter the intestine is limited. This study utilized weaned piglets as subjects to evaluate the systemic effects
[...] Read more.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that bacteriophages (phages) can effectively treat intestinal bacterial infections. However, research on the impact of phages on overall body health once they enter the intestine is limited. This study utilized weaned piglets as subjects to evaluate the systemic effects of an orally administered phage cocktail on their health. Twelve 21-day-old weaned piglets were divided into control (CON) and phage gavage (Phages) groups. The phage cocktail consisted of five lytic phages, targeting Salmonella enterica serovar Choleraesuis (S. choleraesuis), Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), and Shiga tox-in-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). The phages group received 10 mL of phage cocktail orally for 20 consecutive days. The results show that the phage gavage did not affect the piglets’ growth performance, serum biochemical indices, or most organ indices, except for the pancreas. However, the impact on the intestine was complex. Firstly, although the pancreatic index decreased, it did not affect the secretion of digestive enzymes in the intestine. Secondly, phages increased the pH of jejunum chyme and relative weight of the ileum, and enhanced intestinal barrier function without affecting the morphology of the intestine. Thirdly, phages did not proliferate in the intestine, but altered the intestinal microbiota structure and increased concentrations of microbial metabolites isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid in the colonic chyme. In addition, phages impacted the immune status, significantly increasing serum IgA, IgG, and IgM, as well as serum and intestinal mucosal IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-17, and TGF-β, and decreasing IL-4 and IL-10. They also activated toll-like receptors TLR-4 and TLR-9. Apart from an increase in basophil numbers, the counts of other immune cells in the blood did not change. This study indicates that the impact of phages on body health is complex, especially regarding immune status, warranting further attention. Short-term phage gavage did not have significant negative effects on health but could enhance intestinal barrier function.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potential Applications of Bacteriophages in Livestock and Poultry Production in the Post-antibiotic Era)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Antihypertensive Potential of Japanese Quail (Couturnix Couturnix Japonica) Egg Yolk Oil (QEYO) in Sprague Dawley Rats
by
Muhammad Sani Ismaila, Sherifat Olayemi Balogun-Raji, Fahad Hamza, Usman Bello Sadiya, Buhari Salisu, Mohammed Umar, Ishaka Aminu and Kegan Romelle Jones
Biology 2024, 13(4), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040270 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Oils from animal sources have been used for centuries in the management of diseases. This research was conducted to screen the ex vivo and in vivo toxicity of quail egg yolk oil (QEYO) extracts and assess their effects on the management of hypertension
[...] Read more.
Oils from animal sources have been used for centuries in the management of diseases. This research was conducted to screen the ex vivo and in vivo toxicity of quail egg yolk oil (QEYO) extracts and assess their effects on the management of hypertension in rats. QEYO was extracted using gentle heating (GH) and n-hexane (NHN). The extracts were subjected to toxicity testing using the hen’s egg test on chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) and bovine corneal histology test. Acute and sub-chronic toxicity (28 days) were evaluated in rats. Hypertension was induced in rats by administering 80 mg/kg of Nω-L-Arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME) per day for 28 days. Treatments commenced on the 14th day; Nifedipine at 30 mg/kg and 1 mL of distilled water were administered as positive and negative controls. Blood pressure (BP), lipid profiles, and oxidative stress markers were quantified. No irritation was observed using the HET-CAM test in the egg treated with both extracts. Bovine corneal histology showed no lesions in all treated groups. No signs of toxicity were observed in either acute or sub-chronic toxicity studies. A significant reduction in blood pressure was observed in rats treated with the extracts (p < 0.05). Changes in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoproteins (LDLPs), and high-density lipoproteins (HDLPs) were not significant compared to the control (p > 0.05). Oxidative stress markers (SOD and CAT) increased significantly in the treated groups compared to the control, while the malondialdehyde levels decreased (p < 0.05). QEYO was safe in both ex vivo and in vivo studies and can be said to have the potential to lower blood pressure as well as cardio-protective effects in hypertensive rats. This research provides evidence based on which QEYO could be used safely as an adjuvant therapy in eye drops and cosmetics and can be considered an effective choice for preventing hypertension.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathophysiology of Hypertension and Related Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Biology Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Biology, Ecologies, Forests, Microorganisms, Plants
Litter Decompositions: From Individuals to Ecosystems
Topic Editors: Wen Zhou, Guihua LiuDeadline: 30 April 2024
Topic in
Anatomia, Biology, Medicina, Pathophysiology, Tomography
Human Anatomy and Pathophysiology, 2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Francesco Cappello, Mugurel Constantin RusuDeadline: 31 May 2024
Topic in
Biology, Cancers, Current Oncology, Diseases, JCM, Pathogens
Pathogenetic, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives in Head and Neck Cancer
Topic Editors: Shun-Fa Yang, Ming-Hsien ChienDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topic in
Biology, BioMed, Cells, Genes
Applications of the Zebrafish Model
Topic Editors: De-Li Shi, Pengfei XuDeadline: 30 June 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Biology
Benthic Biodiversity from Microbes to Multicellular Organisms and Its Functional Interplays
Guest Editors: Mayya Gogina, Judith PiontekDeadline: 30 April 2024
Special Issue in
Biology
Physiological and Pathophysiological Responses to Biomaterials 2.0: From Nano- to Microscale Effects and Interactions
Guest Editors: Amilcare Barca, Marta Madaghiele, Stefania SciallaDeadline: 15 May 2024
Special Issue in
Biology
Ecological Characteristics and Genetic Population Structure of the Invasive Freshwater Jellyfish Craspedacusta sowerbii Species Complex
Guest Editors: Sabine Gießler, Herwig StiborDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Biology
Extracellular Vesicles and Pathophysiology
Guest Editor: Abdel AlliDeadline: 15 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Biology
Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Cereals
Collection Editor: Dorothea Bartels
Topical Collection in
Biology
Crop Improvement Now and Beyond
Collection Editors: Pierre Devaux, Pierre Sourdille
Topical Collection in
Biology
Abiotic Stress in Plants and Resilience: Recent Advances
Collection Editors: Chengliang Sun, Weiwei Zhou
Topical Collection in
Biology
Gap Junctions and Connexins in Physiology, Pharmacology and Disease
Collection Editors: Yi Zhu, Sebastian Curti, Xinbo Li