Biology

12 pages, 12112 KB

Open AccessArticle

Northward Redistribution of Warm-Affinity Marine Fauna in the Iberian Atlantic: Insights from a Recent Northern Occurrence of the Hermit Crab Dardanus calidus

by Bruno Almón, Jose A. Cuesta, Héctor Costa and Rafael Bañón

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1707; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191707 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Poleward shifts in species distributions are increasingly reshaping marine communities worldwide. Along the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula, recent observations suggest ongoing biogeographical changes affecting a wide range of marine organisms. Here, we document the occurrence of the warm-water hermit crab Dardanus [...] Read more.

Poleward shifts in species distributions are increasingly reshaping marine communities worldwide. Along the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula, recent observations suggest ongoing biogeographical changes affecting a wide range of marine organisms. Here, we document the occurrence of the warm-water hermit crab Dardanus calidus in Galician waters (NW Spain), based on a single female collected in the region. Morphological and molecular analyses confirmed its identification, with the COI sequence showing high similarity to previously published Atlantic and Mediterranean sequences. The Galician record represents the northernmost occurrence of the species currently documented in the Atlantic Iberian region. Given the conspicuous nature of D. calidus and the comparatively well-documented hermit crab diversity of northwestern Iberia, the specimen is unlikely to reflect a common but previously overlooked component of the regional fauna. Although this single record does not demonstrate colonization or a sustained northward expansion, it adds to the increasing number of warm-affinity marine species recently reported beyond their historically documented ranges in northwestern Iberia and is consistent with broader evidence of ongoing biogeographical reorganization in the region. This finding highlights the value of integrating faunistic observations and molecular tools to track contemporary changes in marine species distributions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Young Researchers in Ecology)

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17 pages, 1684 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fast Growth at a Physiological Cost: Comparing Odontobutis potamophilus in Recirculating Aquaculture and Rice–Crayfish–Fish Culture

by Shasha Zhao, Haoran Liu, Jikai Ding, Kun Xiao, Jiahong Shi, Xin Zhang, Ladeertu A, Yang Li, Xinye Wu, Yongjin Li, Liwen Wang, Guofu Huang and Lei Zhang

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191706 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

The freshwater sleeper (Odontobutis potamophilus) is a high-value freshwater fish endemic to China, farmed mainly in rice–crayfish–Odontobutis potamophilus integrated culture (RCO) and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). How these models differ in growth, physiological status, and feeding remains unclear. The same [...] Read more.

The freshwater sleeper (Odontobutis potamophilus) is a high-value freshwater fish endemic to China, farmed mainly in rice–crayfish–Odontobutis potamophilus integrated culture (RCO) and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). How these models differ in growth, physiological status, and feeding remains unclear. The same batch of fry was reared for three months (92 days) in six paddy fields (RCO, 3 individuals/m², no artificial feed, with access to natural food organisms and stocked crayfish) and six RAS tanks (6 individuals/m², fed Cirrhinus molitorella and pellet feed twice daily). Growth indicators were calculated from individual data of the sampled fish (n = 138 per model). Per group, 150 fish were sampled for stomach contents, 138 for morphometrics, and six for serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), glutamic–oxaloacetic transaminase (AST), and glucose (GLU) assays; muscle nutritional composition was also determined. Relative weight gain rate (RWG) and specific growth rate in wet weight (SGRw) were significantly higher in RAS, with positive allometric growth in both models. Muscle crude protein was higher in RCO, whereas crude fat and serum ALT, AST, and GLU levels were higher in RAS, suggesting a heavier metabolic burden on the liver in RAS, which awaits confirmation with a broader panel of liver function markers. RCO stomachs contained nine food categories but had a 38% vacuity rate, whereas RAS fish consumed only C. molitorella (86% occurrence, 14% vacuity). Because stocking density and feeding regimen differed simultaneously between the two models, the observed differences reflect the overall effects of each culture model rather than the effect of the rearing system alone. These findings reveal a growth-metabolism trade-off between the two culture models as currently practiced: RAS produced faster growth accompanied by higher serum transaminase levels and body fat, whereas RCO maintained lower metabolic markers with slower growth. Moderate supplementary feeding in RCO and dietary diversification in RAS may reconcile yield and fish health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine and Freshwater Biology)

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21 pages, 1153 KB

Open AccessArticle

Auditory–Olfactory Integration in Simulated Natural Environments Dissociates Neural and Subjective Responses in Visually Impaired Individuals

by Xiuli Xie, Jingyu Wu, Yiwei Zhou and Hua Chen

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1705; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191705 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Visually impaired individuals rely on cross-modal plasticity to compensate for absent visual input, yet the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying naturalistic auditory–olfactory integration remain poorly characterized. This study investigated how combined auditory and olfactory cues in representative landscape scenarios modulate cortical activity and multidimensional perceptual [...] Read more.

Visually impaired individuals rely on cross-modal plasticity to compensate for absent visual input, yet the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying naturalistic auditory–olfactory integration remain poorly characterized. This study investigated how combined auditory and olfactory cues in representative landscape scenarios modulate cortical activity and multidimensional perceptual experience in 20 visually impaired participants. Five ecologically distinct scenarios—wooded resting areas, dynamic water features, aromatic planting beds, open lawns, and hard-paved plazas—were simulated using synchronized playback of field-recorded soundscapes and calibrated odor diffusion systems. Participants completed standardized ratings across auditory, olfactory, and integrated perceptual dimensions while electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings were acquired. Occipital α/β ratios (O1/O2) served as the primary neurophysiological index of cortical relaxation. Results demonstrated a dissociation between explicit hedonic appraisal and implicit neurophysiological response: dynamic water soundscapes dominated subjective preference ratings, whereas floral olfactory cues in low-amplitude acoustic contexts elicited the highest α/β ratios, significantly exceeding those recorded in wooded and open lawn scenarios. Odor familiarity correlated inversely with α/β elevation (r = −0.46, p < 0.05), indicating that unfamiliar floral scents triggered more robust relaxation responses than familiar urban olfactory environments. This correlation may reflect novelty-related attentional processes rather than relaxation per se. Exploratory clustering revealed stable, trait-like individual differences in baseline α/β activity that were not explained by perceptual ratings, and linear mixed-effects modeling confirmed that inter-individual baseline differences, rather than linear coupling with conscious evaluations, drove α/β variance. Given the relatively small sample size, these findings should be regarded as preliminary and hypothesis-generating. Nevertheless, they extend current models of cross-modal neuroplasticity by demonstrating that naturalistic multisensory integration follows dissociable subjective and neurophysiological trajectories, informing evidence-based multisensory interventions for accessible environmental design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuroscience)

22 pages, 9220 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Shotgun Metagenomics of Microbial Communities Associated with Two Geothermal Systems in Kazakhstan

by Ardak B. Kakimova, Yelena G. Zaparina, Bolatkhan K. Zayadan, Sandugash K. Sandybayeva, Dinara Kelden, Aliyam A. Dauletova and Silvano Piazza

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191704 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Geothermal-associated microbial communities remain poorly characterized in Central Asia. Here, shotgun metagenomics was used to compare microbial communities associated with thermally influenced substrates from the Chundzha and Rakhman geothermal systems in Kazakhstan. Six metagenomes representing three spatial replicates per site yielded approximately 6.5–7.3 [...] Read more.

Geothermal-associated microbial communities remain poorly characterized in Central Asia. Here, shotgun metagenomics was used to compare microbial communities associated with thermally influenced substrates from the Chundzha and Rakhman geothermal systems in Kazakhstan. Six metagenomes representing three spatial replicates per site yielded approximately 6.5–7.3 Gb of clean sequence data per sample. Species-level richness showed a directional trend toward higher values in Chundzha, whereas Shannon diversity was similar between sites. Genus-level Bray–Curtis ordination showed apparent site-associated separation, with sampling site explaining 87.3% of the variation, although the effect was not statistically significant (PERMANOVA, R² = 0.873, p = 0.10). Chundzha showed greater relative representation of several halophilic and halotolerant taxa, whereas Rakhman showed greater representation of soil-associated lineages. Broad COG and KEGG functional profiles were largely shared between sites. Several hydrogenase-, nitrogenase-, and RuBisCO-associated genes showed higher relative representation in Rakhman, whereas selected fermentation- and photosynthesis-associated functions were relatively higher in Chundzha; however, none of the targeted KO comparisons remained significant after FDR correction. These results indicate candidate taxonomic and functional patterns that should be regarded as exploratory because of the limited replication. The dataset provides a baseline for future genome-resolved and metatranscriptomic studies of geothermal-associated microbial communities in Kazakhstan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)

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21 pages, 11686 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome Profiling Reveals the Molecular Regulatory Network in Response to Salt Stress in Intervarietal Hybrids of Chrysanthemum × morifolium ‘Yannong Jinxia’ × ‘Yannong Qiujin’

by Xintong Li, Beining Zhang, Jiayi Zhou, Yansong Wang, Zimeng Li, Chunxin Dong, Hongbo Liu, Yufeng Cong, Li Zhao and Ri Gao

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1703; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191703 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Salinity stress is a major abiotic factor that significantly constrains plant growth and development. Hybridization within the genus Chrysanthemum produces hybrid offspring exhibiting salt tolerance levels that are intermediate between those of the parental. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unreported. [...] Read more.

Salinity stress is a major abiotic factor that significantly constrains plant growth and development. Hybridization within the genus Chrysanthemum produces hybrid offspring exhibiting salt tolerance levels that are intermediate between those of the parental. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unreported. In this study, the salt-sensitive chrysanthemum variety ‘Yannong Jinxia’ (JX) and the salt-tolerant chrysanthemum variety ‘Yannong Qiujin’ (QJ) were selected as parents for hybridization, aiming to elucidate the molecular basis of this intermediate salt tolerance. The hybrid offspring ‘Yannong Xiutang’ (XT) were verified using SRAP-PCR. After salt stress treatment, physiological indicators—including antioxidant enzyme activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content—were measured in both the parents and the offspring. Their differential responses to salt stress were systematically compared by integrating transcriptome sequencing with KEGG enrichment analysis. Additionally, the expression patterns of key genes in the SOS signaling pathway were analyzed. Results showed that under salt stress, the hybrid XT exhibited intermediate levels of antioxidant enzyme activity and MDA accumulation relative to its parents. Transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct pathway enrichments: comparisons between QJ and XT highlighted differences in galactose metabolism, whereas JX vs. XT showed specific enrichment in pathways such as isoflavonoid biosynthesis and fatty acid elongation. Additionally, the expression of the SOS pathway gene in XT was found to be intermediate between the two parental lines. This study elucidates the molecular regulatory network associated with salt tolerance in hybrid offspring of ground cover chrysanthemum, laying a theoretical foundation for the development of salt-tolerant chrysanthemum germplasm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology)

27 pages, 11361 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Relationships, Whole-Fruit Oil Variations, and Quantitative Trait Diversity in Elite Symplocos paniculata Accessions from Hunan Revealed by GBS

by Jiating Zhao, Beilei Xie, Lijuan Jiang, Yan Yang, Changzhu Li, Jingzhen Chen, Peiwang Li, Yanju Song, Xiao Zhou, Qiang Liu and Yunzhu Chen

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1702; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191702 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Symplocos paniculata is a promising woody oil species, but the genetic diversity and joint variation in whole-fruit, tissue-specific oil, fatty acid, and quantitative traits remain insufficiently characterized. Thirty elite accessions from six geographic origins in Hunan Province were evaluated using genotyping-by-sequencing, whole-fruit and [...] Read more.

Symplocos paniculata is a promising woody oil species, but the genetic diversity and joint variation in whole-fruit, tissue-specific oil, fatty acid, and quantitative traits remain insufficiently characterized. Thirty elite accessions from six geographic origins in Hunan Province were evaluated using genotyping-by-sequencing, whole-fruit and tissue-specific oil measurements, fatty acid profiling, and 12 quantitative traits. A total of 6335 single-nucleotide polymorphisms revealed geographic differentiation together with substantial within-origin heterogeneity. The principal diversity, PCoA, AMOVA, and pairwise FST patterns remained stable after exclusion of a high-missingness accession. Whole-fruit oil content averaged 34.91% and ranged from 18.54% to 51.35%, with oleic acid as the predominant fatty acid. An additional tissue-specific experiment showed higher mean oil contents in non-seed than seed tissues (37.22% vs. 30.32%) and clear differences in fatty acid composition. Dry-mass-weighted reconstruction closely reproduced measured whole-fruit oil content (Pearson r = 0.935), indicating that whole-fruit variation reflects tissue-specific oil accumulation rather than tissue proportion alone. In the original 72-test analysis, pooled morphology–oil associations did not retain Benjamini–Hochberg significance after adjustment for geographic origin or genetic structure. In a separate 15-test tissue-specific reassessment, infructescence width remained positively associated with non-seed oil content in pooled, origin-adjusted, and genetic-adjusted models. These results characterize complementary genetic and oil-related variations among the sampled accessions and identify tissue-specific relationships that warrant independent validation in replicated common-garden and multi-year trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)

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37 pages, 1038 KB

Open AccessReview

Probiotic–Prebiotic Co-Encapsulation in Functional Dairy Foods: Current Technologies and Prospects for Integration with Milk-Derived Bioactive Peptides

by Malika Abdulzhanova, Nurassyl Bakhytzhan, Gulina Doktyrbay, Dilyar Tuigunov, Zulfiya Kachiyeva, Nurgul Amangeldi, Aigerim Abdimadiyeva, Assima Abekova and Maka Muradashvili

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191701 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Co-encapsulating probiotics with prebiotic substrates (PRO–PRE) is widely proposed as a route to functional dairy products, yet the terminology and the supporting evidence are applied inconsistently. This structured narrative review examines PRO–PRE co-encapsulation in dairy matrices and, as a complementary field, the encapsulation [...] Read more.

Co-encapsulating probiotics with prebiotic substrates (PRO–PRE) is widely proposed as a route to functional dairy products, yet the terminology and the supporting evidence are applied inconsistently. This structured narrative review examines PRO–PRE co-encapsulation in dairy matrices and, as a complementary field, the encapsulation of milk-derived bioactive peptides. Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and PubMed were searched for publications from 1 January 2015 to 1 September 2026. Of 663 records retrieved, 420 remained after deduplication and 330 after screening; 117 were prioritized for technological assessment. Protection is consistent but partial: encapsulated Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus in ice cream declined by 0.61 log CFU/g over 50 days of frozen storage, compared with 0.97 log CFU/g for free cells. Adding a substrate is not invariably beneficial, since sweet-whey–inulin microcapsules in Greek-style yogurt and inulin in ultrafiltered white cheese conferred no advantage over the carrier alone. Outcomes depend on strain, carrier, encapsulation method, and dairy matrix, and no method proved superior on every criterion. Physical co-localization was frequently reported as synbiotic function without evidence of selective substrate utilization. No validated dairy system combining a probiotic, a confirmed prebiotic, and a characterized milk-derived peptide was identified, and clinical validation is still lacking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biotechnology)

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20 pages, 6010 KB

Open AccessArticle

Toxicity of Rocket Fuel Derivatives to the Tenebrio molitor–Gregarina spp. Host–Parasite System at Different Temperatures

by Denis Rybalka and Viktor Brygadyrenko

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191700 - 24 Sep 2026

Abstract

Hydrazine (N₂H₄) is a component of rocket fuel, and its dinitroaromatic relatives are feedstocks for explosives and pesticides. Both classes contaminate soils around aerospace facilities and in areas of armed conflict. The toxicity of hydrazine hydrate, 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) and [...] Read more.

Hydrazine (N₂H₄) is a component of rocket fuel, and its dinitroaromatic relatives are feedstocks for explosives and pesticides. Both classes contaminate soils around aerospace facilities and in areas of armed conflict. The toxicity of hydrazine hydrate, 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) and 2,4-dinitroaniline to terrestrial invertebrates remains unexplored. This study examined the effects of these substances on the mortality, body mass, pupation, and intensity of Gregarina spp. infestation in larvae of Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae). Mortality rose with dose for all three compounds and at 90 mg/kg reached 26.7%. Pupation responded to the fact of exposure itself: none was recorded in the control (0.0%), whereas 59.6% of the exposed larvae pupated, already at the lowest concentration of 10 mg/kg, where no deaths occurred. The proportion pupating was similar across the three compounds (55.0–62.2%) but declined with increasing concentration, from 67.2% at 10 mg/kg to 52.2% at 90 mg/kg. Within the 21–28 °C range, no main effect of temperature on mortality, pupation, or body mass was found. All three compounds reduced the intensity of Gregarina spp. infestation with increasing concentration. Under acute 5-day exposure, therefore, the studied compounds cause little larval mortality but alter pupation, body mass and the intensity of parasitic infestation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Toxicology)

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20 pages, 1524 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Basal Sources to Top Predators: Isotopic Evidence of Trophic Organization in the Francisco Coloane Coastal Marine Protected Area

by Lisette Zenteno-Devaud, Gabriela V. Aguirre-Martínez, Matías Cárcamo-Chávez, Paola Acuña-Gómez, Jorge Acevedo, Claudio A. Moraga, Lautaro Oyarzún-Galaz, Pedro Valenzuela and Anelio Aguayo-Lobo

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1699; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191699 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Coastal food webs are sustained by two contrasting energy channels—a fast pelagic pathway fueled by phytoplankton and a slow benthic pathway built on detrital processing—yet whether these channels remain segregated or become progressively coupled as energy moves toward higher consumers is still poorly [...] Read more.

Coastal food webs are sustained by two contrasting energy channels—a fast pelagic pathway fueled by phytoplankton and a slow benthic pathway built on detrital processing—yet whether these channels remain segregated or become progressively coupled as energy moves toward higher consumers is still poorly resolved, particularly in remote, environmentally variable systems. We tested these competing scenarios—channel compartmentalization versus channel coupling—using carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) stable isotopes across a four-level food web in the Francisco Coloane Marine Coastal Protected Area, a subantarctic system in the Strait of Magellan, Chile. Lower-trophic consumers showed strong isotopic differentiation, tracking access to distinct basal resources, but this segregation gave way to substantial niche convergence at intermediate trophic levels, where overlap probabilities exceeded 60%. Macroalgal-derived carbon dominated assimilation across resident consumers (50–80%), while sediment organic matter acted as an integrative pool rather than an independent pathway, blending detrital inputs from multiple sources. The clearest evidence for channel coupling came from the squat lobster Grimothea gregaria: its pelagic and benthic life stages occupied opposite ends of the isotopic gradient, showing that a single species can physically cross channels that appear isotopically segregated at the community level. Together, these results indicate that benthic and pelagic energy pathways in this protected area are not independent but progressively integrated as energy moves up the food web—a pattern with direct implications for how spatial management should treat habitat connectivity in coastal marine reserves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wildlife Conservation and Habitat Management in the Anthropocene, Second Edition)

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14 pages, 879 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inter- and Intraspecific Variation in Dorsal Pigmentation Patterns of Skates (Rajidae) from the Cantabrian Sea: Evidence of High Variability in Raja clavata and Implications for Species Identification

by Clara Piedrafita-Zubillaga, Daniel A. Gómez-Lobo, Isabel Gómez-Álvarez, Johanne Wauters, Pablo de la Calva-Castiñeira, Trinidad Pérez, Ángel Muñoz, Yaisel J. Borrell and Laura Miralles

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1698; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191698 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Accurate species identification is essential to assess population trends and implement effective conservation measures. Many rajid species have life-history characteristics that increase their vulnerability to fishing mortality, while their conservation status differs among species. However, species identification within the family Rajidae is hampered [...] Read more.

Accurate species identification is essential to assess population trends and implement effective conservation measures. Many rajid species have life-history characteristics that increase their vulnerability to fishing mortality, while their conservation status differs among species. However, species identification within the family Rajidae is hampered by morphological conservatism and intraspecific phenotypic variation, which frequently lead to misidentification in fisheries surveys and seafood markets. Here, we combine COI DNA barcoding with a detailed photographic assessment of dorsal pigmentation patterns in 484 skate specimens collected from a fish wholesaler market in the Cantabrian Sea. Seven species were genetically identified as Raja clavata, Raja montagui, Raja microocellata, Raja undulata, Raja brachyura, Leucoraja naevus, and Leucoraja circularis. Substantial overlap in pigmentation patterns was detected among genetically distinct species, while R. clavata exhibited nine distinct morphotypes, five of which have not been previously described. We further investigated whether R. maderensis individuals display dorsal patterns distinct from those of R. clavata. Notably, a dark-crossbar pattern, previously unreported in R. montagui, was recorded in this species. Moreover, an unusually extreme case of hypomelanosis in R. microocellata is also discussed. Together, these findings demonstrate that dorsal pigmentation alone in processed individuals is insufficient for reliable species discrimination in skates and highlights the need to integrate molecular tools into fisheries monitoring and biodiversity assessments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine and Freshwater Biology)

15 pages, 2530 KB

Open AccessArticle

Population Genomic Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Structure in Mackerel Scad (Decapterus macarellus) in the South China Sea Based on RAD-seq

by Yi Li, Shuai Zhang, Min Li, Jiangtao Fan, Yancong Cai, Yutao Yang, Shannan Xu and Zuozhi Chen

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191697 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

The mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) is an important pelagic fish in the South China Sea (SCS), where it supports light purse-seine fisheries. Genome-wide information on its genetic diversity and population structure remains limited, although it is needed for stock identification and [...] Read more.

The mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) is an important pelagic fish in the South China Sea (SCS), where it supports light purse-seine fisheries. Genome-wide information on its genetic diversity and population structure remains limited, although it is needed for stock identification and sustainable management. Restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) was used to analyze 112 D. macarellus individuals collected from Xisha, Dongsha, and Nansha Islands in the SCS, with Dongsha and Nansha sampled in April 2025 and Xisha sampled in September 2025; the congener Decapterus macrosoma was included as an outgroup for analyses requiring an external reference. A total of 12,080 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 1087 retained loci were used for within-species analyses. The three sampling groups showed moderate-to-high genetic diversity (π = 0.02045–0.03191; H_O = 0.01669–0.02497). Pairwise F_ST values ranged from 0.0086 to 0.0120 and D_XY values ranged from 0.00156 to 0.00174, while principal component analysis, ADMIXTURE, and phylogenetic analyses indicated low genome-wide differentiation among the sampled regions. The TreeMix results were treated as exploratory and showed close allele–frequency relationships among the sampling groups. Genotype–environment association analysis identified putative association signals across the environmental variables examined, with chlorophyll-a, salinity, and nitrate yielding the largest numbers of candidate loci. Overall, these results indicate low neutral genetic differentiation among the sampled groups. Because sampling location and month were confounded and the data are based primarily on neutral genomic markers, the present results should be considered a genomic baseline rather than definitive evidence for a single fishery management unit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Evolutionary Biology of Aquatic Organisms)

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30 pages, 6386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification, Physiological Time and Reproductive Potential of Bradysia impatiens (Diptera: Sciaridae) from Liuba, Shaanxi, with a Review Pertaining to Its Occurrences in China

by Qi Wang, Limin Zhao and Ya Sun

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1696; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191696 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

The sciarid fly Bradysia impatiens (Johannsen) is one of the key pests on American ginseng Panax quinquefolium L. in Liuba County, Shaanxi Province, China. Its living specimens were sampled, isolated, reared, mounted, observed and microphotographed. Its identification was completed through both comparisons of [...] Read more.

The sciarid fly Bradysia impatiens (Johannsen) is one of the key pests on American ginseng Panax quinquefolium L. in Liuba County, Shaanxi Province, China. Its living specimens were sampled, isolated, reared, mounted, observed and microphotographed. Its identification was completed through both comparisons of morphotaxonomic characteristics and DNA barcoding, and its occurrences in China were reviewed. After conducting serial rearing experiments of the insect at eight temperatures, we calculated developmental threshold temperatures (C) and thermal constants (K) of the species in its egg, larval, pupal and generational stages, and then constructed four reciprocal models N = K/(T − C), where N denotes developmental duration and T is rearing temperature. With values of K and C as well as their SE written, the reciprocal model for its generational stage is N_generation = (374.9 ± 8.15)/[T − (6.6 ± 0.29)]. Based on C and K and annual effective accumulated temperatures, we estimated that the sciarid pest would reproduce at a rate of 4.2 to 5.7 generations a year in local regions. In the laboratory, the fecundity of the species was tested to be 59.2 eggs per female, the survival rate of the immature individuals averaged 46.4% in the range from 10.0 to 30.0 °C, and the sex ratio of female to male was 2:1. Based on these coefficients, we are able to estimate the reproductive potential that a parent female and her offspring may reach in a year if they live under favorable conditions, and corresponding economic losses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Zoology)

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18 pages, 8872 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Genomics of NGF, NTRK1, and NGFR Across Chordates: Joint Gene Recovery and Region-Specific Constraint

by Zhimin Li, Xiaojie Liu, Ya Zhang and Yeping Tan

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191695 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin central to sensory neuron biology and pain signaling. NGF and NTRK1 are gnathostome paralogs within the older neurotrophin and Trk families, respectively, whereas NGFR encodes p75NTR, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. Orthology [...] Read more.

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin central to sensory neuron biology and pain signaling. NGF and NTRK1 are gnathostome paralogs within the older neurotrophin and Trk families, respectively, whereas NGFR encodes p75NTR, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. Orthology assessment of NGF, NTRK1, and NGFR across vertebrates is challenging because mature neurotrophins are short, cysteine-rich ligands, NTRK1 has closely related paralogs, and NGFR lies outside the Trk receptor family. We assessed species-level joint genomic recovery of the three genes and compared evolutionary constraint among predefined ligand and receptor regions. The analysis covered 94 chordates and combined graded recovery evidence with family phylogenies, locus and domain evidence, codon models, amino acid conservation, and structural mapping. Sixteen non-gnathostome species were included to provide evolutionary context and were not used to calculate recovery rates for the three focal genes. Among 78 sampled gnathostomes, 52 had high-confidence joint recovery, eight had supported provisional joint recovery, four had component-level evidence consistent with possible co-recovery, and 14 remained incomplete. Mature NGF had a numerically lower estimate of the ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous substitution rates (dN/dS, ω) than the pro-domain (0.067 versus 0.352). All six scaffold cysteines were invariant; in the residue-class comparison, the cysteine scaffold was the only structural class that differed from the coordinate-resolved background after correction. The dimer-interface, TrkA-contact, and p75NTR-contact classes did not differ significantly from that background after correction. Receptor analyses yielded low ω estimates in Trk kinase domains and p75NTR intracellular regions. Together, these results provide a confidence-graded map of focal-gene recovery and regional purifying constraint while placing non-gnathostome homologs within the older neurotrophin system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Evolutionary Biology)

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19 pages, 2969 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated lncRNA and mRNA Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Candidate Regulatory Networks Associated with Postnatal Longissimus Dorsi Muscle Development in Hanper Sheep

by Xiaoyong Chen, Zhen Wang, Rui Yuan, Ying Bai, Lei Liu and Guanghui Li

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1694; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191694 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Skeletal muscle development is a key determinant of meat production and meat-quality traits in sheep, but the coordinated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) co-expression landscape underlying postnatal muscle development in Hanper sheep remains unclear. In this study, RNA sequencing was [...] Read more.

Skeletal muscle development is a key determinant of meat production and meat-quality traits in sheep, but the coordinated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) co-expression landscape underlying postnatal muscle development in Hanper sheep remains unclear. In this study, RNA sequencing was performed on Longissimus Dorsi muscle samples from Hanper sheep at 1 month (M1), 7 months (M7), and 13 months (M13) of age to characterize lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles during postnatal growth. A total of 13,940 candidate lncRNAs were identified, and these lncRNAs exhibited typical structural features, including shorter transcript lengths, fewer exons, and shorter open reading frames than mRNAs. Differential expression analysis identified 39, 11, and 174 differentially expressed lncRNAs in M7_vs_M1, M13_vs_M7, and M13_vs_M1, respectively, while 357, 160, and 446 differentially expressed mRNAs were detected in the corresponding comparisons. Functional enrichment analyses showed that differentially expressed mRNAs and co-expressed mRNAs associated with differentially expressed lncRNAs were mainly involved in RNA metabolism, translation, ribosome biogenesis, amino acid biosynthesis, energy and lipid metabolism, extracellular matrix remodeling, and cell adhesion. Several muscle-development-related signaling pathways, including AMPK, insulin, PI3K-Akt, PPAR, mTOR, FoxO, ECM–receptor interaction, and focal adhesion pathways, were also enriched. Integrated lncRNA–mRNA analysis further identified candidate lncRNA-associated differentially expressed genes, including IGF2, FOS, ACTC1, ADIPOQ, SPP1, PECAM1, and SLC16A7. These findings provide a comprehensive lncRNA and mRNA transcriptomic resource and reveal candidate regulatory molecules potentially involved in postnatal Longissimus Dorsi muscle development in Hanper sheep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA Research and Functional Insights)

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18 pages, 3731 KB

Open AccessArticle

Altered IRE1α-Dependent Decidual Programming Links Impaired Inflammation and Angiogenesis in Recurrent Implantation Failure

by Lara Castagnola, Lourdes Materazzi, Daniel Paparini, Ana Schafir, Marcela Irigoyen, Esteban Grasso, Nancy Charó, Daiana Vota, Agustina Marcial, Diego Gnocchi, Alejandro Gustavo Martínez, Antonio Cattaneo, Lautaro Tessari, Vanesa Hauk, Soledad Gori and Rosanna Ramhorst

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191693 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background: Decidualization alters the endometrial stromal cells (EnSC) secretome, allowing sterile inflammation associated with embryo implantation, but mechanisms that lead to alterations in this process are still unknown. We evaluated whether impaired IRE1α-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signalling contributes to defective angiogenic decidual [...] Read more.

Background: Decidualization alters the endometrial stromal cells (EnSC) secretome, allowing sterile inflammation associated with embryo implantation, but mechanisms that lead to alterations in this process are still unknown. We evaluated whether impaired IRE1α-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signalling contributes to defective angiogenic decidual programming in patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Methods: Candidate pathways were identified with bioinformatic analyses of endometrial arrays and validated in endometrial biopsies from fertile and RIF women (secretory phase) by RT-qPCR and in isolated EnSC by flow cytometry. Functional alterations were evaluated using trophoblast spheroid and endothelial cell migration assays. ER stress was pharmacologically induced in EnSC using thapsigargin. Results: RIF endometria displayed impaired in vivo decidualization, with reduced expression of IGFBP1 and PGR, together with altered expression of molecules involved in blastocyst adhesion. Conditioned media from RIF-derived EnSC-impaired trophoblast outgrowth. RIF samples displayed an anti-angiogenic and altered inflammatory profile, characterized by reduced intracellular IL-1β accumulation, decreased VEGFA, and increased sFlt1 expression. Bioinformatic analyses identified IRE1α pathway as a central altered network associated with angiogenesis. Consistently, RIF samples showed reduced expression of IRE1α, sXBP1, and NLRP3. Moreover, ER stress induction in EnSC promoted endothelial cell migration. Conclusions: RIF is associated with defective angiogenic decidual programming linked to impaired IRE1α-mediated ER stress signalling. These findings identify the IRE1α axis as a potential pathway of interest for future therapeutic exploration in recurrent implantation failure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Developmental and Reproductive Biology)

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21 pages, 930 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Seedling Grade on Biomass Accumulation and Allometric Growth Across Developmental Stages in Pinus yunnanensis Franch. Seedlings

by Pengrui Wang, Honglin Wang, Zhuangyue Lu, Xiangyang Kang, Yulan Xu, Nianhui Cai and Boning Yang

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1692; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191692 - 23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Pinus yunnanensis Franch. holds significant ecological value as a native conifer endemic to the southwestern uplands of China. The annual P. yunnanensis seedlings were categorized into three quality classes: Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III in accordance with the national specifications for [...] Read more.

Pinus yunnanensis Franch. holds significant ecological value as a native conifer endemic to the southwestern uplands of China. The annual P. yunnanensis seedlings were categorized into three quality classes: Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III in accordance with the national specifications for seedling quality. We measured root, stem, needle, aboveground, and individual biomass at six stages from 240 to 690 days. We used the standardized major axis method to analyze allometric relationships among organs and with total biomass. Our results showed that Grade I seedlings had more stable allometric coordination over time. The lower grades showed more fluctuations and weaker coordination. Needles dominated biomass throughout the development period, roots grew faster in later stages, and stems grew slower but increased their share. This showed seedlings invest first in needles for carbon gain and then gradually build support and uptake structures. The biomass allocation and growth modes matured between 510 and 690 days. Biomass differed among seedling grades. Grade I seedlings show better growth stability and resource-use efficiency. They are suitable for nursery cultivation and afforestation. This study lays the groundwork for upgrading quality standards and perfecting silvicultural techniques. It also helps design precise tending measures to raise survival rates and early productivity. This work has practical value for plantation establishment, ecological restoration, and timber development in Southwest China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Developmental and Reproductive Biology)

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18 pages, 6005 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Characterization of the DELLA Gene Family in Hevea brasiliensis Reveals Evolutionary Diversification and Potential HbDELLA3/4–HbbHLH25 Interaction

by Xiaoling Tang, Jiale Liu, Songle Fan, Xiaoxiran Zhao, Mingyang Liu and Lifeng Wang

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1691; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191691 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

DELLA proteins are central negative regulators of gibberellin signaling and play important roles in plant growth, development, and environmental responses. However, the DELLA gene family has not been systematically characterized in Hevea brasiliensis. Here, we identified members of the HbDELLA protein family [...] Read more.

DELLA proteins are central negative regulators of gibberellin signaling and play important roles in plant growth, development, and environmental responses. However, the DELLA gene family has not been systematically characterized in Hevea brasiliensis. Here, we identified members of the HbDELLA protein family in the rubber tree genome and examined their evolutionary relationships, conserved motifs, domain organization, chromosomal distribution, collinearity, expression patterns, and protein interactions using comparative genomics, transcript profiling, and yeast two-hybrid assays. Five HbDELLA proteins were identified. Comparative analysis of DELLA proteins from 14 representative species showed that family size ranged from one to five members and that DELLA proteins contain conserved C-terminal GRAS domains but divergent N-terminal DELLA-related regions. Phylogenetic analyses resolved two major clades, S1 and S2, with HbDELLA3 and HbDELLA4 clustering with AtGAI and AtRGA in subclade S1.1. Collinearity analysis suggested that WGD or segmental duplication contributed mainly to HbDELLA family expansion. HbDELLA genes showed tissue- and developmental-stage-specific expression and distinct temporal responses to gibberellin treatment in flowers. Yeast two-hybrid assays supported interactions of HbDELLA3 and HbDELLA4 with HbbHLH25 in yeast. These findings identify candidate protein associations for further investigation but do not establish their occurrence or regulatory functions in rubber tree cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

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23 pages, 738 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Alphitobius diaperinus and Tenebrio molitor Larvae Digestates on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier and Antioxidant-Related Gene Expression in Differentiated Caco-2 Cells: An In Vitro Study

by Eleni Dalaka, Constantin S. Filintas, Demeter Lorentha S. Gidari, Maria C. Boukouvala, Georgios Theodorou and Nickolas G. Kavallieratos

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1690; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191690 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Edible insects have drawn increasing interest from researchers as sustainable sources of protein with potential functional ingredients for feed and food applications. However, the intestinal effects of digestion-derived fractions remain insufficiently characterized. The present research combined INFOGEST 2.0 in vitro digestion with a [...] Read more.

Edible insects have drawn increasing interest from researchers as sustainable sources of protein with potential functional ingredients for feed and food applications. However, the intestinal effects of digestion-derived fractions remain insufficiently characterized. The present research combined INFOGEST 2.0 in vitro digestion with a polarized Caco-2 monolayer model to examine the potential intestinal effects of digestates produced from Tenebrio molitor and Alphitobius diaperinus. Neither digestate affected cell viability at the tested concentrations. Transepithelial electrical resistance also remained comparable to the control treatments, indicating the preservation of monolayer integrity. Nevertheless, both insect-derived digestates moderately increased Lucifer Yellow apparent permeability. At the molecular level, both treatments significantly upregulated genes associated with epithelial differentiation and tight junctions, including claudins and intestinal alkaline phosphatase, while A. diaperinus digestate additionally increased the mRNA expression of tight junction protein 1 and sucrase-isomaltase. Both digestates also enhanced the expression of antioxidant-related genes, including NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1, glutathione-disulfide reductase, and heme oxygenase 1, with A. diaperinus eliciting a broader transcriptional response than T. molitor by additionally increasing the expression of NFE2-like bZIP transcription factor 2 and superoxide dismutase 1. Overall, these results indicate that digestion-derived components from these edible insects can modulate selected intestinal epithelial and antioxidant-related transcriptional responses in differentiated Caco-2 cells under the conditions tested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Utilization of Insect Biodiversity in Agriculture Forestry and Food Systems Resource Utilization, Food Security and Policy Integration)

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21 pages, 7161 KB

Open AccessReview

Disrupted Signalling Landscapes in Glioblastoma: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Frontiers

by Ammar Asif Ali Ansari, Natalia Haddad, Ana Maria Assed, Nada Awaad, Shifa Badruddin, Afroditi Damou, Taslima Haque Shuwara, Marihah Rizwy, Nadine Wehida and Ahmed Elbediwy

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191689 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive malignant primary brain tumour, originating from glial cells known as astrocytes and accounting for over 50% of all central nervous system malignancies. Its aetiology is linked to various factors, including radiation exposure, genetic alterations, and [...] Read more.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive malignant primary brain tumour, originating from glial cells known as astrocytes and accounting for over 50% of all central nervous system malignancies. Its aetiology is linked to various factors, including radiation exposure, genetic alterations, and viral influences, which trigger the uncontrolled growth and rapid infiltration of glial cells into surrounding brain tissues. Despite standard multidisciplinary management involving maximal safe surgical resection, radiotherapy, and temozolomide, the prognosis remains poor. The molecular landscape of GBM is characterised by profound dysregulation across highly conserved signalling networks, including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, ERK/MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo pathways. These pathways are frequently hijacked by genetic and epigenetic alterations such as EGFR amplification and PTEN loss, which drive essential hallmarks of cancer like uncontrolled proliferation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis evasion. A defining feature of GBM is its extreme intra-tumoral heterogeneity and cellular plasticity, where tumour cells dynamically transition between distinct transcriptional states, including mesenchymal, astrocyte-like, and neural progenitor-like, to adapt to therapeutic pressures. This complexity is further exacerbated by microenvironmental factors. Clinical progress is severely hindered by the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which restricts systemic agents from reaching invasive tumour margins. Targeted monotherapies, such as EGFR and mTOR inhibitors, have largely failed in clinical trials due to compensatory feedback loops and pathway redundancy. Consequently, the therapeutic paradigm is shifting toward rational combination therapies and novel immunotherapeutic platforms. Emerging strategies, such as bivalent CAR T-cell therapy targeting both EGFRvIII and IL-13Rα2, have shown early clinical promise in achieving tumour regression, highlighting a potential path toward precision medicine. This review synthesises current insights into signalling dysregulation and explores the future frontiers of multi-targeted therapeutic interventions in GBM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signalling Pathways in Cancer and Disease)

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19 pages, 16125 KB

Open AccessReview

Autophagy in Silkworm Biology: Progress and Perspectives

by Lanlan Feng, Xin Zhou and Xia He

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191688 (registering DOI) - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic process essential for cellular quality control, metabolic adaptation, and developmental programming. The silkworm has emerged as a compelling model organism for investigating autophagy due to its well-characterized genome, ease of genetic manipulation, and significant homology with human [...] Read more.

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic process essential for cellular quality control, metabolic adaptation, and developmental programming. The silkworm has emerged as a compelling model organism for investigating autophagy due to its well-characterized genome, ease of genetic manipulation, and significant homology with human disease-related genes. This review synthesizes current advances in silkworm autophagy research across four interconnected domains: molecular regulatory mechanisms, developmental functions, stress-induced responses, and disease-related implications. The steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) orchestrates autophagy during metamorphosis through transcriptional upregulation of autophagy-related genes (Atgs) and mTOR inhibition. AMPK acts as a key energy sensor, phosphorylating BmAtg1c upon 20E stimulation or starvation. Functionally, autophagy participates in tissue remodeling, silk gland degeneration, and fat-body metabolism during development. Upon pathogenic infections (BmNPV, BmCPV, microsporidia) or xenobiotic stresses (pesticides, heavy metals), autophagy exhibits context-dependent duality—often promoting pathogen replication while also contributing to host defense. The interplay between autophagy and apoptosis serves as a critical molecular switch determining cellular fate under stress conditions. Collectively, these findings establish the silkworm as a versatile platform for decoding autophagy regulatory networks and their physiological significance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

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19 pages, 12870 KB

Open AccessArticle

A View from Inside and Outside the Tree: Using Different Techniques to Assess the Use of Black Woodpecker Cavities in Forests

by Grzegorz Zawadzki and Dorota Zawadzka

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191687 (registering DOI) - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Large cavities are important for maintaining forest biodiversity. However, accurately assessing cavity use and identifying the communities of organisms associated with these structures remain challenging and are still insufficiently studied. Between 2022 and 2026, tree cavities excavated by the Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus [...] Read more.

Large cavities are important for maintaining forest biodiversity. However, accurately assessing cavity use and identifying the communities of organisms associated with these structures remain challenging and are still insufficiently studied. Between 2022 and 2026, tree cavities excavated by the Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius) in northeastern Poland were monitored using two complementary techniques: camera traps installed near cavity entrances and an action camera used to inspect cavity interiors. The aim of this study was to assess the diversity of animal communities associated with Black Woodpecker cavities and to compare the effectiveness of the two monitoring methods. In total, 32 bird species, six mammal species, and 11 insect species were recorded as using Black Woodpecker cavities. Inspections of cavity interiors confirmed breeding by 19 bird species and 4 mammal species, and 4 insect species. Camera traps recorded 29 bird species, four mammal species, and one species of social insect at cavity entrances. Over half (51.7%) of the bird species recorded at cavity entrances were not detected inside the cavities, whereas 17.6% of bird species confirmed to breed in the cavities were not detected by camera traps. Camera traps also did not allow for the identification of bat species or the detection of insects other than hornets. The results demonstrate that the assemblages of animals associated with Black Woodpecker cavities differed depending on the monitoring method used. Traditional observation methods may underestimate the diversity of cavity-associated fauna, particularly species that remain hidden inside cavities or use them only during specific stages of their life cycle. The two modern techniques used in this study provided complementary information and should therefore be considered together when assessing the diversity and use of tree cavities by forest fauna. Full article

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18 pages, 2319 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rice Bran as a Sustainable Feed Material Substitute to Improve the Meat Quality in Late-Stage Wenchang Chicken

by Jie Liu, Limin Wei, Qiqi Guo, Jingli Yuan, Yan Zhang, Xiuping Wang and Quanwei Liu

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191686 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

The growing competition between humans and livestock for corn-soybean based feed calls for sustainable alternatives like rice bran. This study assessed substituting feed with rice bran (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) in diets for slow-growing Wenchang chickens, a prized Chinese yellow-feathered breed. Up [...] Read more.

The growing competition between humans and livestock for corn-soybean based feed calls for sustainable alternatives like rice bran. This study assessed substituting feed with rice bran (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) in diets for slow-growing Wenchang chickens, a prized Chinese yellow-feathered breed. Up to 15% substitution maintained final body weight and average daily gain, but 20% substitution reduced body weight. Feed intake rose significantly at 10–20% substitution. Substituting 15–20% rice bran for feed significantly reduced abdominal fat without affecting slaughter performance or serum biochemical indicators. Meat quality had trade-offs: thigh muscle redness improved at 15%, and breast muscle fibers changed, but water-holding capacity decreased with increased cooking loss. Breast muscle intramuscular fat and inosinic acid increased, while fatty acid profiles changed, reducing both beneficial (e.g., oleic acid) and undesirable trans fatty acids at ≥10%, and saturated fatty acids in thigh muscle at 15%. Moreover, in the 20% group, alanine and glycine levels in breast muscles were notably lower than in the control and 5% groups. Additionally, the 15–20% group showed a significant reduction in total amino acids, the 10–20% group showed a significant reduction in flavor amino acids, and various free amino acids in thigh muscles were also reduced compared to the control group. Rice bran affected meat quality and nutrition, with mixed effects. Notably, incorporating a 10% rice bran substitute in the diet can improve meat quality traits in slow-growing yellow-feathered broiler chickens without impacting production performance. Full article

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16 pages, 7359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Morphology, Distribution and Sexual Dimorphism of Sensilla in the Tea Leaf Beetle Basilepta melanopus (Coleoptera: Eumolpidae)

by Dingran Zhang, Huan Qiu, Yuetong Guan, Wenzheng Tang, Rongrong Tan, Xun Chen, Hongjuan Wang, Danjuan Huang, Lijin An, Lin Du, Fen Zhu, Long Jiao and Yingxin Mao

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191685 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

The tea leaf beetle Basilepta melanopus is a devastating leaf-feeding pest of tea plants, with its infestation area and damage severity in Chinese tea plantations continuously increasing. Characterizing the morphology and distribution of sensilla provides a morphological basis for understanding the behavioral mechanisms [...] Read more.

The tea leaf beetle Basilepta melanopus is a devastating leaf-feeding pest of tea plants, with its infestation area and damage severity in Chinese tea plantations continuously increasing. Characterizing the morphology and distribution of sensilla provides a morphological basis for understanding the behavioral mechanisms underlying host recognition, mate localization, and environmental perception of this pest. In this study, the morphology, ultrastructural characteristics, distribution and sexual dimorphism of sensilla on antennae, mouthparts, legs, and external genitalia of B. melanopus adults were examined by stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Nine types and thirty-nine subtypes of sensilla were observed. These include various types on the antennae, including Böhm bristles, sensilla chaetica, sensilla trichodea, sensilla basiconica, sensilla auricillica, sensilla coeloconica, and sensillar pits, and many subtypes. The two types of sensilla unique to the mouthparts are sensilla styloconica and sensilla campaniformia. Sensilla chaetica and sensilla trichodea are also found on the tarsi. In addition, sensilla trichodea and sensilla basiconica were identified on the external genitalia of the female insect. On the male external genitalia, four types of sensilla were observed: sensilla trichodea, sensilla chaetica, sensilla basiconica, and sensilla coeloconica. There were also differences in the number and size of sensilla between males and females. This study investigated the relationship between the sensilla of B. melanopus and its key behavioral activities, namely feeding and oviposition, through detailed morphological observations and systematic analysis of these sensory structures. The findings provide a conceptual framework and offer novel perspectives for future research on the behavioral ecology and integrated management of this species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Morphology and Sensorimotor Systems of Insect Antennae)

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17 pages, 24182 KB

Open AccessArticle

Corncob-Derived Xylo-Oligosaccharides Attenuate Acrylamide-Induced Gut–Liver Toxicity in Mice, Associated with Modulation of Gut Microbiota and SCFA Metabolism

by Le He, Yanjuan Chen, Ruiping Luo, Zhongke Sun, Erting Liu, Lili Li and Zonghao Yue

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191684 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Acrylamide (AA) is a common foodborne toxicant formed during the thermal processing of starch-rich foods and poses significant risks to the gut–liver axis. Although corncob-derived xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) have emerged as promising prebiotics with multiple bioactivities, their protective effects against foodborne toxicants have not [...] Read more.

Acrylamide (AA) is a common foodborne toxicant formed during the thermal processing of starch-rich foods and poses significant risks to the gut–liver axis. Although corncob-derived xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) have emerged as promising prebiotics with multiple bioactivities, their protective effects against foodborne toxicants have not been explored. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of dietary corncob-derived XOS on AA-induced gut–liver toxicity and the underlying mechanisms in mice. Female C57BL/6J mice were gavaged with AA and concurrently fed diets with or without 7.0% XOS for 7 weeks. The results showed that XOS effectively alleviated AA-induced gut–liver toxicity, as evidenced by attenuated intestinal and hepatic inflammation (decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 in colon, TNF-α, and IL1-β in liver; increased anti-inflammatory IL-10 in colon and liver), restored intestinal barrier integrity (upregulated Zo-1, Occludin, and Claudin-1 mRNA, along with increased goblet cell numbers and mucus secretion), and ameliorated hepatic oxidative stress (upregulated Nrf2/Nqo1/Ho1 mRNA expression, restored CAT activity, and reduced H₂O₂ accumulation). 16S sequencing revealed that XOS supplementation significantly increased the Shannon index in AA-exposed mice compared with the AA group, suggesting enhanced cecal microbial diversity, although AA exposure did not significantly reduce α-diversity. Further analysis showed that XOS reshaped the community composition, particularly by reducing pro-inflammatory genera (Dubosiella, Desulfovibrio, Faecalibaculum, and Faecalimonas) and enriching short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria (Bifidobacterium, norank_f__Muribaculaceae, and Akkermansia). Furthermore, XOS significantly elevated SCFA levels in AA-treated mice, including acetic, propionic, butyric, valeric, and isovaleric acids. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that dietary XOS ameliorates AA-induced gut–liver toxicity in mice when co-administered with AA. This protective effect was associated with modulation of the gut microbiota and SCFA metabolism, providing a basis for future studies exploring the potential of XOS against foodborne contaminant toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Toxicology)

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22 pages, 706 KB

Open AccessReview

Nodulation Signaling Pathway 2: A Proposed Multifunctional Signaling Hub for Coordinating Plant Architecture, Rhizosphere Chemistry, and Symbiotic Associations Under Nutrient Stress

by Yanting Wang, Yanni Zhao, Ranran Liu, Shulei Wang and Yuanfeng Li

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191683 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Under nutrient stress, plants adjust shoot branching, root remodeling, and symbiotic associations to optimize survival and growth. The GRAS-type transcription factor NODULATION SIGNALING PATHWAY 2 (NSP2) participates in these responses through context-dependent interactions with partners: NSP1, MYB40, and SLR1, and is indirectly repressed [...] Read more.

Under nutrient stress, plants adjust shoot branching, root remodeling, and symbiotic associations to optimize survival and growth. The GRAS-type transcription factor NODULATION SIGNALING PATHWAY 2 (NSP2) participates in these responses through context-dependent interactions with partners: NSP1, MYB40, and SLR1, and is indirectly repressed by SMAX1 via NSP1 and SLR1. NSP2 functions differ among species: it directly binds DNA in rice (Oryza sativa) strigolactone (SL) biosynthesis, whereas in M. truncatula it acts as a co-regulator in nodulation and flavonoid regulation, with NSP1 or MYB40 providing DNA-binding activity; the NSP2–MYB module also appears conserved in barley (Hordeum vulgare). Through these partnerships, NSP2 is proposed to coordinate three interconnected modules influencing plant architecture, rhizosphere chemistry, and symbiotic associations. The NSP1–NSP2 heterodimer activates SL biosynthesis under phosphate deficiency, remodeling root/shoot architecture and balancing N/P uptake in rice. The NSP1–NSP2–SLR1–SMAX1 quaternary module integrates phosphate, gibberellin, and karrikin signals to orchestrate arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in rice. Under nitrogen limitation and rhizobial infection, the NSP2–MYB40 module enhances flavonoid biosynthesis to promote rhizobial nodulation in Medicago truncatula. These findings suggest that the NSP2-centered network could be targeted to improve nutrient-use efficiency, although further field validation is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Mineral Nutrition: Enhancing Plant Resilience)

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17 pages, 439 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Acute Neuromuscular Responses and Interlimb Asymmetry Following 5 km and Half-Marathon Running in Recreational Runners

by Danijela Kuna, Petar Šušnjara and Klara Findrik

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1682; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191682 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Acute neuromuscular responses to running may vary according to exercise duration and physiological demands. This study compared changes in vastus medialis contractile properties, quadriceps maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and interlimb asymmetry following 5 km and half-marathon running trials. Twenty-eight male recreational runners [...] Read more.

Acute neuromuscular responses to running may vary according to exercise duration and physiological demands. This study compared changes in vastus medialis contractile properties, quadriceps maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and interlimb asymmetry following 5 km and half-marathon running trials. Twenty-eight male recreational runners (36.96 ± 11.35 years) completed both trials 10 days apart. Maximal radial displacement (Dm), contraction time (Tc), and contraction velocity (Vc) were assessed using tensiomyography, while quadriceps MVIC was assessed using isometric dynamometry before and after each trial. Absolute interlimb asymmetry and its direction were also analysed. The unadjusted analysis showed a greater pre-to-post increase in Dm following the half-marathon; however, the effect of the running trial on post-running Dm was not significant after adjustment for baseline Dm. Tc and MVIC decreased after both trials, whereas Vc increased, with no significant running trial × time interactions for these outcomes. TMG- and MVIC-derived absolute interlimb asymmetry remained unchanged. Acute post-running responses differed according to the neuromuscular characteristic assessed rather than consistently according to running distance. Changes in contractile properties and maximal force-generating capacity were not accompanied by a systematic increase in the magnitude of between-leg differences. Full article

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28 pages, 5442 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Molecular Stress Biomarkers in Aquaculture: A Systematic Review

by Alba Sellés-Egea, David G. Valcarce and Vanesa Robles

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191681 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

This systematic review of the literature aimed to explore the molecular biomarkers used for the detection of stress in the aquaculture sector over the last decade. Relevant studies were retrieved from the Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases, which were last searched [...] Read more.

This systematic review of the literature aimed to explore the molecular biomarkers used for the detection of stress in the aquaculture sector over the last decade. Relevant studies were retrieved from the Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases, which were last searched on 13 June 2025. After screening according to predefined eligibility criteria and PRISMA 2020, 64 peer-reviewed original research articles published between 2015 and 2025 were included. The included studies were qualitatively synthesised. These studies evaluated molecular biomarkers of stress across 31 fish species, with Salmo salar being the most frequently studied, followed by Oncorhynchus mykiss. China, Spain and Canada contributed the largest numbers of included studies. In total, 20 different stressors were identified. Temperature was the most frequently investigated stressor, followed by stocking density, hypoxia and exposure to various chemicals. Publication activity has grown over the last decade, with a clear increase since 2020. This systematic review was conducted to integrate current knowledge and emerging evidence on molecular markers in teleost fish, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of both established biomarkers and novel molecular candidates identified through recent studies. Although considerable heterogeneity was observed among fish species, stress protocols and biomarker assessment methods, the evidence supports the growing value of integrated biomarker approaches for stress assessment in aquaculture. Overall, the evidence supports integrated, context-specific biomarker approaches that combine molecular endpoints with established physiological indicators to improve stress assessment in aquaculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine and Freshwater Biology)

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25 pages, 15600 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nano- and Microparticulate Fermented Fish Protein Hydrolysate Diets on Growth, Digestive Function, Intestinal Development, and Gene Expression in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Larvae

by Zohaib Noor, Faisal Ahmad Lodhi, Waqar Younas, Fahim Ullah Khan, Zaigham Hassan, Muhammad Rizwan, Saif Ullah, Fida Ullah Khan, Fathul Bari and Md. Fakhrul Islam

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191680 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

The early larval stage is a major bottleneck in freshwater aquaculture because conventional live feeds are not always available for optimum nutrient availability and digestibility to satisfy the nutritional requirements of developing larvae. This study evaluated the effects of micro- and nano-particulate fermented [...] Read more.

The early larval stage is a major bottleneck in freshwater aquaculture because conventional live feeds are not always available for optimum nutrient availability and digestibility to satisfy the nutritional requirements of developing larvae. This study evaluated the effects of micro- and nano-particulate fermented and fish protein hydrolysate-based diets on growth, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, and immune-related gene expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) larvae. Four experimental diets, namely fish hydrolysate-based micro-feed (FHMF), fermented micro-feed (FMF), fish hydrolysate-based nano-feed (FHNF), and fermented nano-feed (FNF), were compared with a basal diet. Feed characterization confirmed the successful production of micro- (5–15 µm) and nano-sized (90–105 nm) particles with distinct physicochemical properties. Three-day-old hatchlings were reared for 45 days, and growth performance, survival, digestive enzyme activities, intestinal histomorphology, and gene expression were analyzed. Diet type significantly influenced all measured parameters (p < 0.001). Among the treatments, FNF consistently produced the highest growth, survival, digestive enzyme activities, villus development, and muscular layer thickness. Growth-related genes (GH, IGF-1, and ghrelin) and immune-related genes (lysozyme, TNF, IL-1β, IL-10, and TGF-β) also followed an upregulated trend. These findings demonstrate that nanoparticulate fermented feed is a promising nutritional strategy for enhancing larval growth, digestion, immune competence, and production efficiency in common carp aquaculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Fish Nutrition: Antimicrobials, Immunostimulants, Synbiotics and Alternative Protein Sources)

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29 pages, 5661 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tree Diversity, Floristic Composition, and Forest Structure in Three Permanent Montane Forest Plots in Northern Peru

by Rosalynn Yohanna Rivera López, Carlos Reynel Rodriguez, Jürgen Homeier, Helge Walentowski and Jaris Veneros

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191679 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Tropical montane forests provide essential ecosystem services and are of considerable ecological importance. However, knowledge gaps remain regarding how tree diversity, floristic composition, and forest structure vary among permanent plots across the sampled elevational range (2169–2519 m a.s.l.). We established three independent 1 [...] Read more.

Tropical montane forests provide essential ecosystem services and are of considerable ecological importance. However, knowledge gaps remain regarding how tree diversity, floristic composition, and forest structure vary among permanent plots across the sampled elevational range (2169–2519 m a.s.l.). We established three independent 1 ha permanent forest plots, with a single plot representing each sampled elevation (2169, 2347, and 2519 m a.s.l.). Because each sampled elevation was represented by a single plot, this design does not provide replication for formal statistical testing of elevational trends; therefore, differences among the three plots were interpreted descriptively. All trees with DBH ≥ 10 cm were inventoried to characterize tree diversity, floristic composition, and forest structure. Diversity was estimated using Hill numbers, and floristic differentiation was assessed using non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). A total of 2336 individuals belonging to 46 families, 75 genera, and 147 species were recorded. Alpha diversity differed among plots, with values ranging from 49 to 67 species (q = 0), 17.2 to 24.6 (q = 1), and 10.7 to 13.6 (q = 2). P-OC1 showed the highest observed species richness and floristic diversity among the three plots. Lauraceae was the most diverse family, while the ecological importance of dominant families, as indicated by FIVI, varied among plots. Comparison with nine additional permanent plots from montane forests of northern, central, and southern Peru revealed floristic differentiation among plots in the NMDS ordination (stress = 0.068). Neither elevation (R² = 0.280, p = 0.223) nor species richness (R² = 0.044, p = 0.826) was significantly associated with the ordination. This study establishes an ecological baseline for the three permanent plots evaluated and expands the available information on the diversity, composition, and structure of montane forests in northern Peru. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ecology)

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Open AccessReview

N6-Methyladenosine and 5-Methylcytosine Epitranscriptomic Regulation of Male Reproduction and Fertility

by Sana M. Salih, Ayman Al-Hendy and Qiwei Yang

Biology 2026, 15(19), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15191678 - 22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Functional spermatozoa production depends on spermatogenesis, a complex developmental process that requires precise regulation of gene expression at multiple levels. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms governing germ cell development, post-transcriptional regulation mediated by RNA modifications [...] Read more.

Functional spermatozoa production depends on spermatogenesis, a complex developmental process that requires precise regulation of gene expression at multiple levels. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms governing germ cell development, post-transcriptional regulation mediated by RNA modifications has recently emerged as an important component of male fertility regulation. Epitranscriptomics, the study of chemical RNA modifications and their associated regulatory proteins, has revealed diverse roles for RNA modifications in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Among more than 170 RNA modifications identified to date, N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) and 5-methylcytosine (m⁵C) are well characterized in the male reproductive system. Distinct groups of regulatory proteins function to deposit, remove, and recognize these modifications, thereby controlling RNA fate and metabolism. Functional studies in genetic knockout animal models show that disrupting key epitranscriptomic regulators contributes to abnormal germ cell development at multiple developmental stages. Notably, adverse environmental exposure reprograms the germ cell epitranscriptome, leading to abnormal spermatogenesis and male infertility. In light of recent advances, this narrative review summarizes current progress in male fertility, with particular emphasis on m⁶A and m⁵C RNA modifications. Finally, it outlines future perspectives on RNA modification studies in male fertility. Deeper mechanistic insights into male infertility can contribute to the development of new targeted therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental and Reproductive Biology)

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Biology, Volume 15, Issue 19 (October-1 2026) – 33 articles

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