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Volume 15
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Biology, Volume 15, Issue 2 (January-2 2026) – 17 articles

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24 pages, 1212 KB  
Review
Delayed Signaling in Mitotic Checkpoints: Biological Mechanisms and Modeling Perspectives
by Bashar Ibrahim
Biology 2026, 15(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020122 - 8 Jan 2026
Abstract
Time delays are intrinsic to mitotic regulation, particularly within the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) and the spindle position checkpoint (SPOC). These delays emerge from multi-step protein activation, molecular transport, force-dependent conformational transitions, and spatial redistribution of regulatory complexes. They span seconds to minutes [...] Read more.
Time delays are intrinsic to mitotic regulation, particularly within the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) and the spindle position checkpoint (SPOC). These delays emerge from multi-step protein activation, molecular transport, force-dependent conformational transitions, and spatial redistribution of regulatory complexes. They span seconds to minutes and strongly influence checkpoint activation, maintenance, and silencing. Increasing evidence shows that such delayed processes shape mitotic timing, checkpoint robustness, and cell-fate decisions. While classical ordinary differential equation (ODE) models assume instantaneous biochemical responses, delay differential equations (DDEs) provide a natural framework for representing these finite timescales by explicitly incorporating system history. Recent DDE-based studies have revealed how delayed signaling contributes to bistability, oscillatory responses, prolonged mitotic arrest, and variability in checkpoint outputs. This review summarizes the biological origins of delays in SAC and SPOC, including Mad2 activation, MCC assembly and turnover, APC/C reactivation, tension maturation at kinetochores, and Bfa1–Bub2 regulation of Tem1. The article further discusses how mechanistic models with explicit delays improve our understanding of SAC–SPOC ordering, error-correction dynamics, and mitotic exit control. Finally, open challenges and future directions are outlined for integrative delay-aware modeling that unifies biochemical, mechanical, and spatial processes to better explain checkpoint function and chromosomal stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)
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14 pages, 2851 KB  
Article
DMP1-Mediated FAK Activation Contributes to P Utilization of Broiler Osteoblasts by Suppressing FGF23 Expression
by Tingting Li, Xinyu Feng, Weiyun Zhang, Jingyi Zhao, Liyang Zhang, Yun Hu, Xiaoyan Cui, Shengchen Wang and Xugang Luo
Biology 2026, 15(2), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020121 - 8 Jan 2026
Abstract
Improving phosphorus (P) utilization in broilers is crucial for reducing feed costs and environmental pollution. Bone mineralization trait is strongly associated with P utilization in poultry and is thus often used as an alternative trait for evaluating P utilization. Dentin matrix protein 1 [...] Read more.
Improving phosphorus (P) utilization in broilers is crucial for reducing feed costs and environmental pollution. Bone mineralization trait is strongly associated with P utilization in poultry and is thus often used as an alternative trait for evaluating P utilization. Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), an essential matrix protein for bone mineralization and P deposition, has been shown to be actively involved in P utilization in broilers, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the possible mechanisms whereby DMP1 regulates P utilization of poultry by using gene silencing and overexpression technologies, combined with an in vitro model of primary broiler osteoblasts. The results showed that DMP1 overexpression augmented the P utilization of broiler osteoblasts, characterized by significant increases (p < 0.001) in P utilization rate, mineralization formation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and bone gla protein content. Meanwhile, DMP1 overexpression effectively (p < 0.05) activated the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling, along with obvious (p < 0.01) decreases in fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) expression and production. In contrast, DMP1 silencing reversed (p < 0.05) the above effects. Consistently, FAK activation promoted (p < 0.05) P utilization accompanied by remarkable (p < 0.05) decreases in FGF23 expression and production. Furthermore, gain- and loss-of-function assays demonstrated that a high level of FGF23 contributed to impaired P utilization, while a low level was beneficial. Interestingly, blocking FAK signaling not only recovered (p < 0.05) the FGF23 expression and production in DMP1 overexpressed cells but also obviously (p < 0.05) weakened their P utilization. These findings indicate that DMP1 inhibits FGF23 expression by activating FAK, thereby contributing to P utilization in broiler osteoblasts. They reveal a novel DMP1-FAK-FGF23 regulatory axis in broiler osteoblasts and provide a potential target for improving P efficiency in poultry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Physiology of Animals)
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18 pages, 3087 KB  
Article
Three Cases Revealing Remarkable Genetic Similarity Between Vent-Endemic Rimicaris Shrimps Across Distant Geographic Regions
by Won-Kyung Lee, Soo-Yeon Cho, Se-Jong Ju and Se-Joo Kim
Biology 2026, 15(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020120 - 7 Jan 2026
Abstract
Deep-sea hydrothermal vent fauna is often regarded as highly endemic, although exceptions have been reported. We examined genetic connectivity across broad spatial scales within the alvinocaridid genus Rimicaris, which has undergone substantial adaptive radiation worldwide. We analyzed six Rimicaris species using three [...] Read more.
Deep-sea hydrothermal vent fauna is often regarded as highly endemic, although exceptions have been reported. We examined genetic connectivity across broad spatial scales within the alvinocaridid genus Rimicaris, which has undergone substantial adaptive radiation worldwide. We analyzed six Rimicaris species using three genetic markers, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 16S ribosomal rRNA gene (16S), and histone h3 (H3), and complete mitogenomes, employing newly generated sequences combined with publicly available sequence data. A genetic tree and haplotype networks were constructed, and divergence analyses were performed. Three clades of paired Rimicaris species were identified, each made up of taxa from different oceanic regions but showing relatively low COI divergence (0.35–1.90%). In Clade I, Rimicaris chacei and Rimicaris hybisae are morphologically similar and exhibit bidirectional gene flow, implying a dispersal route between the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) and the Mid-Cayman Spreading Center (MCSC). In Clade II, Rimicaris exoculata and Rimicaris kairei are morphologically, genetically, and ecologically distinct, reflecting restricted connectivity between the MAR and the Carlsberg Ridge (CR)–Central Indian Ridge (CIR). In Clade III, Rimicaris variabilis and Rimicaris cf. variabilis differ in nutritional strategies, showing a unidirectional dispersal route from the CIR to the southwestern Pacific (SWP), but morphological data to distinguish them are currently lacking. Some Rimicaris lineages maintain connectivity across distinct oceanic regions while others still form unique regional populations. This finding highlights the need for conservation strategies that incorporate both global-scale connectivity and regional endemism, rather than treating individual vent ecosystems as a single homogeneous management unit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine and Freshwater Biology)
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16 pages, 2038 KB  
Article
Application-Specific Measurement Uncertainty Software for Measuring Enrofloxacin Residue in Aquatic Products Using the Quick Quantitative (QQ) Method
by Bo Rong, Haitao Zhang, Wenjing He, Peilong Song, Yuanyuan Xu, Emmanuel Bob Samuel Simbo, Haizhou Jiang, Liping Qiu, Lei Zhu, Longxiang Fang, Suxian Qi, Tingting Yang, Zhongquan Jiang, Shunlong Meng and Chao Song
Biology 2026, 15(2), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020119 - 7 Jan 2026
Abstract
Quick Quantitative (QQ) immunoassays have been increasingly applied for the measurement of enrofloxacin (ENR) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) residues in aquaculture due to their speed and convenience. However, their quantitative reliability remains limited because measurement uncertainty (MU) is rarely considered during field testing. To [...] Read more.
Quick Quantitative (QQ) immunoassays have been increasingly applied for the measurement of enrofloxacin (ENR) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) residues in aquaculture due to their speed and convenience. However, their quantitative reliability remains limited because measurement uncertainty (MU) is rarely considered during field testing. To enhance the metrological reliability of QQ-based residue analysis, we developed AquaUncertainty Pal, a mobile application that embeds real-time MU computation into the QQ workflow. The software automatically evaluates uncertainty sources during sampling and pipetting, visualizes the uncertainty budget, and guides users through optimized operations. The framework was validated against ISO/IEC 17025–accredited LC–MS/MS and assessed through a user study involving 20 frontline technicians. With the integrated software, pipetting precision (RSD) at 100 μL improved from 4.1% to 1.79%, the inter-operator variability (CV) decreased by 52%, and conformity assessment accuracy for samples near the maximum residue limit (MRL) increased from 25% to 70%. This suggests that real-time MU visualization effectively guided technicians toward consistent pipetting and interpretation behavior. These results demonstrate that integrating MU into the QQ workflow is both feasible and effective, substantially improving reliability and providing a replicable digital framework for uncertainty-informed residue monitoring in aquaculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methods in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)
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19 pages, 18978 KB  
Article
The Gut Microbiome of the Goitered Gazelle Enables Plasticity by Responding to Environmental Factors in the Qaidam Basin
by Qing Zhao, Bin Li, Juan Ma, Jiaxin Wei and Wen Qin
Biology 2026, 15(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020118 - 7 Jan 2026
Abstract
The Qaidam Basin on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau is an extreme arid environment, posing severe survival challenges. The goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa) is a keystone species in this fragile ecosystem, yet the ecological role of its gut microbiota and its associations with [...] Read more.
The Qaidam Basin on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau is an extreme arid environment, posing severe survival challenges. The goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa) is a keystone species in this fragile ecosystem, yet the ecological role of its gut microbiota and its associations with environmental drivers remain poorly understood. We collected fecal samples from gazelles across seven regions of the basin. Metagenomic sequencing was employed to characterize the gut microbiome. Statistical analyses (Mantel tests, multiple regression on matrices, co-occurrence networks) were used to link microbial composition and function with key environmental factors. The gut microbiota was dominated by fiber-degrading phyla (Firmicutes, Bacteroidota) and enriched in metabolic pathways, aligning with a high-fiber diet. Regarding environmental drivers of gut microbial composition variations, isothermality and soil organic carbon were significant predictors, likely via vegetation and environmental inoculation. Regarding environmental drivers of gut microbial function variations, winter solar radiation was uniquely associated with metabolic function without altering microbial composition, suggesting a functional plasticity—the capacity to shift metabolic profiles independently of taxonomic turnover—in response to environmental variation. The gut microbiota of the goitered gazelle exhibits a stable core composition alongside environmentally responsive functional modules. This suggests the microbiome may serve as a significant mediator of host resilience, highlighting adaptation as a dynamic interplay between host, microbiome, and environment. These insights are crucial for microbiome-assisted conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)
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15 pages, 5106 KB  
Article
Growth Performance and Biochemical Profiles of Fairy Shrimp (Streptocephalus sirindhornae) Fed Natural Diets at Low and High Stocking Densities
by Kosit Sriphuthorn, Naiyana Senasri and Prapatsorn Dabseepai
Biology 2026, 15(2), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020117 - 7 Jan 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the growth performance, gut content composition, and biochemical profiles of the fairy shrimp Streptocephalus sirindhornae cultured with natural diets under low and high stocking densities (20 and 40 ind. L−1). Fairy shrimp were reared for 15 days in [...] Read more.
This study investigates the growth performance, gut content composition, and biochemical profiles of the fairy shrimp Streptocephalus sirindhornae cultured with natural diets under low and high stocking densities (20 and 40 ind. L−1). Fairy shrimp were reared for 15 days in 1 m3 floating cages placed in earthen ponds. On day 15, individuals in the low-density treatment exhibited significantly greater body weight (0.074 ± 0.013 g) and total length (20.97 ± 0.90 mm) than those in the high-density group. A total of 54 food taxa were identified in the gut contents, with phytoplankton comprising the dominant fraction (91%). In contrast, 105 food taxa were recorded in the culture ponds, including 54 phytoplankton and 51 zooplankton taxa; chlorophytes (27 taxa, 50%) and rotifers (33 species, 63.46%) were the most diverse groups. Fairy shrimp feeding on natural pond foods exhibited high levels of essential amino acids, with monounsaturated fatty acids dominating and linoleic acid (C18:2n6c) representing the principal polyunsaturated fatty acid. Overall, the results indicate that low-density rearing enhances fairy shrimp growth, while the high diversity of natural food organisms contributes to the favorable nutritional composition of S. sirindhornae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity, Conservation, and Application of Crustaceans)
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15 pages, 2686 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Immunogenicity of a Recombinant Bacillus subtilis Expressing LTB-Fused Protective Antigen of Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus in a Murine Model
by Rongxing Fan, Yuanqi Bi, Shanshan Yang, Shaopeng Yao, Wen An, Zhongtian Wang, Zengjun Ma, Ping Rui, Tao Song, Lili Wang and Fengsai Li
Biology 2026, 15(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020116 - 7 Jan 2026
Abstract
Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE), caused by the TGE virus (TGEV), is a highly contagious enteric disease characterized by vomiting, dehydration, and watery diarrhea. It mainly endangers piglets within two weeks of age, with a 100% mortality rate, inflicting severe economic losses on the global [...] Read more.
Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE), caused by the TGE virus (TGEV), is a highly contagious enteric disease characterized by vomiting, dehydration, and watery diarrhea. It mainly endangers piglets within two weeks of age, with a 100% mortality rate, inflicting severe economic losses on the global swine industry. Since enteric tropism of the virus and mucosa serves as the first line of defense against viral invasion, an oral vaccine inducing sufficient secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) antibodies in animals should be developed. Being a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) microorganism, Bacillus subtilis can form endospores under extreme environmental conditions, which confer resistance to the hostile gastric environment and have been widely employed as delivery vehicles for oral vaccines owing to their immunoadjuvant activity and non-specific antidiarrheal effects. In this study, the AD antigenic epitope of the TGEV S protein was selected as the immunogen. The mature peptide of the B subunit of the heat-labile enterotoxin from enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli served as a mucosal adjuvant, and B. subtilis WB800N was used as the delivery host to construct the recombinant strain pHT43-LTB-AD/WB800N. After confirming the successful expression of the target protein, oral immunization was performed using mice as a model. The results demonstrated that this recombinant strain induced robust mucosal, humoral, and cellular immunity, along with considerable levels of neutralizing antibodies. These findings indicate that recombinant B. subtilis could serve as an oral vaccine candidate to combat TGEV infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)
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21 pages, 7425 KB  
Article
Oxidative-Stress-Mediated AMPK/mTOR Signaling in Bovine Mastitis: An Integrative Analysis Combining 16S rDNA Sequencing and Molecular Pathology
by Yuanyuan Zhang, Min Zhang, Daqing Wang, Feifei Zhao, Luofei Jia, Zhiwei Sun, Guifang Cao and Yong Zhang
Biology 2026, 15(2), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020115 - 6 Jan 2026
Abstract
The bovine mammary gland, the exclusive site of milk synthesis, is a structurally specialized tissue that houses distinct cellular subsets, yet it remains highly susceptible to major mastitis pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Escherichia coli. Infection disrupts redox [...] Read more.
The bovine mammary gland, the exclusive site of milk synthesis, is a structurally specialized tissue that houses distinct cellular subsets, yet it remains highly susceptible to major mastitis pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Escherichia coli. Infection disrupts redox homeostasis, leading to excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and rapid activation of antioxidant pathways. In this study, we integrated 16S DNA sequencing, histopathology (hematoxylin and eosin), and immunohistochemistry to map the mastitis-associated microbiota and visualize oxidative-damage foci in mammary tissues challenged by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, or Escherichia coli. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses were subsequently performed on the same samples to measure the kinetic response of six oxidative-stress-related signalling nodes: adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase, cytochrome P450 1A1, heme oxygenase 1, nitric oxide synthase, mammalian target of rapamycin, and superoxide dismutase. By correlating the temporal expression patterns of these genes/proteins with ROS accumulation and histological severity, this study delineates the molecular cascade linking oxidative imbalance to mastitis pathology, providing data-driven targets for future preventive and therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Cell Signaling and Redox Biology: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Applications)
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19 pages, 3656 KB  
Article
Do Symbiotic Microbes Drive Chemical Divergence Between Colonies in the Pratt’s Leaf-Nosed Bat, Hipposideros pratti?
by Ziqi Zheng, Jeffrey R. Lucas, Chunmian Zhang and Congnan Sun
Biology 2026, 15(2), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020114 - 6 Jan 2026
Abstract
Host odour may be affected by symbiotic microbes that produce metabolites. As a result, chemical signal production may be influenced. Few studies to date have assessed how symbiotic microbes influence variation in geography of animal chemical signals. This is important because chemical signal [...] Read more.
Host odour may be affected by symbiotic microbes that produce metabolites. As a result, chemical signal production may be influenced. Few studies to date have assessed how symbiotic microbes influence variation in geography of animal chemical signals. This is important because chemical signal divergence can affect mate choice, species recognition, and ultimately speciation in a broad range of animals. However, the underlying driving forces of chemical signal divergence are still rather poorly understood. To study chemical signals, bats provide a good model system because they are such social mammals. Because males roost in dark spaces during the daytime, they rely on chemical and acoustic signals. We identified three colonies across a large geographic area and collected male forehead gland secretions from Pratt’s leaf-nosed bats (Hipposideros pratti). We examined the role symbiotic microbes played in potential variation in the geography of chemical signals. We observed significant colony-level differences in compound categories and in the amount of specific compounds. We also found significant colony-level differences in forehead gland microbiota. However, there was no significant relationship between bat-gland bacterial community composition and variation in chemical composition across colonies. These results suggest that bacterial communities may fail to shape the chemical signalling profiles of the different colonies in Pratt’s leaf-nosed bats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biological Research of Chiroptera)
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17 pages, 2117 KB  
Article
Chronic Heat Stress Induces Stage-Specific Molecular and Physiological Responses in Spotted Seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus): Focus on Thermosensory Signaling and HPI Axis Activation
by Guozhu Zhang, Hao Niu, Xiangkai Tang, Kaile Wang, Xue Xia, Xiu Fang and Xiaojie Wang
Biology 2026, 15(2), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020113 - 6 Jan 2026
Abstract
Global warming and the increasing frequency of marine heatwaves (MHWs) threaten marine ecosystems and aquaculture. For the economically important spotted seabass (L. maculatus), the neuroendocrine basis of its stage-specific thermal responses has yet to be elucidated. This study examined the transcriptomic, [...] Read more.
Global warming and the increasing frequency of marine heatwaves (MHWs) threaten marine ecosystems and aquaculture. For the economically important spotted seabass (L. maculatus), the neuroendocrine basis of its stage-specific thermal responses has yet to be elucidated. This study examined the transcriptomic, physiological, and behavioral adaptations to chronic heat stress in late larval and late juvenile seabass over 14 days. After thermal acclimation, larvae demonstrated a marked behavioral shift, preferring warmer waters (26–34 °C). While heat stress upregulated key thermosensory genes (e.g., trpv1, trpv4) in the brain across both stages, it induced distinct expression profiles in the skin, suggesting a developmental transition from peripheral to central dominance in thermosensation. Brain transcriptomics revealed stage-specific pathway activation: juveniles engaged in neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions and MAPK signaling, whereas larvae showed enrichment in phosphatidylinositol signaling and protein processing. Both stages showed activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal (HPI) axis (upregulation of crh, crhr1, crhr2, pomc) and heat shock response (hsp70, hsp90), accompanied by elevated serum cortisol. Notably, energy metabolism diverged significantly: larvae maintained appetite and developed hyperglycemia, while juveniles exhibited severe feeding suppression and hypoglycemia, which was correlated with differential regulation of appetite genes (npy, orexin, cck). Our results elucidate the distinct neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying thermal acclimation in L. maculatus and provide a scientific basis for developing climate-resilient aquaculture practices for this species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine and Freshwater Biology)
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15 pages, 1874 KB  
Article
Ras Homolog A (RhoA) Is Involved in the Innate Immune Defense of the Red Swamp Crayfish Procambarus clarkii
by Shengjie Ren, Wenjing Xu, Xianjun Ma, Chunhua Ma, Aimin Wang, Qiuning Liu and Lishang Dai
Biology 2026, 15(2), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020112 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 27
Abstract
RhoA (Ras homolog A) is a prominent member of the Rho GTPase family, playing a key role in various cellular processes such as cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration, and immune responses. However, its function in red swamp crayfish remains unclear. In this study, it [...] Read more.
RhoA (Ras homolog A) is a prominent member of the Rho GTPase family, playing a key role in various cellular processes such as cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration, and immune responses. However, its function in red swamp crayfish remains unclear. In this study, it is proposed that RhoA may regulate the innate immune response in P. clarkii. The gene was fully characterized as PcRhoA in P. clarkii. The results showed that the open reading frame (ORF) of PcRhoA is 663 bp, encoding a 220-amino acid protein with a conserved Rho domain of 174 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis placed PcRhoA close to Cherax quadricarinatus RhoA. RT-qPCR analysis revealed high expression levels of the PcRhoA gene in the hepatopancreas, muscle, heart, ovary, and stomach, with lower expression in the blood, intestine, gills, and tentacle gland. Furthermore, PcRhoA mRNA transcript was significantly upregulated in the intestine following LPS and Poly I:C challenges. Knockdown of PcRhoA suppressed the expression of downstream genes in the immune signaling pathway. These results indicate that PcRhoA appears to play a pivotal role in regulating the immune response of crayfish. Full article
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17 pages, 4272 KB  
Article
Krüppel-like Factor 2 (KLF2) in the Regulation of Lipid Accumulation, ROS, and Mitochondrial Functions During Foam Cell Formation in RAW264.7 Cells
by Md Sariful Islam Howlader, Manjusri Das, Surajit Hansda, Prathyusha Naidu and Hiranmoy Das
Biology 2026, 15(2), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020111 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 24
Abstract
Foam cell formation, a hallmark of early atherosclerotic lesion development, is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Disruption in mitochondrial activity leads to electron leakage, elevated ROS generation, and collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, contributing to vascular [...] Read more.
Foam cell formation, a hallmark of early atherosclerotic lesion development, is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Disruption in mitochondrial activity leads to electron leakage, elevated ROS generation, and collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, contributing to vascular pathogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), a transcription factor known for its vasculoprotective effects, in regulating mitochondrial function during foam cell (FC) formation in RAW264.7 cells. This study demonstrates that KLF2 is decreased during FC formation of RAW264.7 cells. In contrast, lipids are highly uptaken, and both intracellular and mitochondrial ROS are increased, with enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial functions during FC formation of RAW264.7 cells. To investigate the role of KLF2 in this FC formation process, we utilized both loss-of-function and gain-of-function approaches of KLF2 in RAW264.7 cells. This study demonstrates that KLF2 plays a multifaceted and protective role in preventing FC formation by regulating the uptake of lipids, reducing both intracellular and mitochondrial ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential, and mitochondrial activities, as loss-of-function of KLF2 promoted FC formation with overactivity, and gain-of-function reduced FC formation by limiting activities of all the parameters mentioned above. These findings provide mechanistic insights into the protective role of KLF2 and propose it as a potential therapeutic target for the future management of cardiovascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology)
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14 pages, 2843 KB  
Article
Integrative Application of Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Reveals Molecular Insight into Metabolomic Variations in Chinese Mitten Crab Eriocheir sinensis Harvested from Lake Datong and Adjacent Pond
by Lehe Lin, Yiming Pang, Wengang Xu, Chun Wang and Huafeng Zou
Biology 2026, 15(2), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020110 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 28
Abstract
As an important economic aquatic product in China, the farming method of Eriocheir sinensis significantly impacts its quality and physiological metabolism. In this study, the effects of lake (LK) farm and pond (PD) farm on the gene expression profiles and metabolic pathways in [...] Read more.
As an important economic aquatic product in China, the farming method of Eriocheir sinensis significantly impacts its quality and physiological metabolism. In this study, the effects of lake (LK) farm and pond (PD) farm on the gene expression profiles and metabolic pathways in E. sinensis were evaluated by integrating transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. A total of 812 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the hepatopancreas of crabs. The DEGs were mainly enriched in nutrient reservoir activity, regulation of response to oxidative stress, and lipid transporter activity. In addition, LC-MS analysis identified 410 significantly differential metabolites, and KEGG pathway enrichment showed that these metabolites were mainly enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and glycerolipid metabolism. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that the AMPK signaling pathway, cytochrome P450-mediated xenobiotic metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and the apoptosis signaling pathway collectively exert a significant influence on the growth performance of crabs. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that the crabs in the LK group exhibit enhanced antioxidant and detoxification capacities, concomitant with reduced protein synthesis and energy metabolism, and underwent increased apoptotic events. The finding of this study will provide valuable and novel insight into crab farming practices in different aquaculture environments, providing theoretical foundations for optimizing ecological aquaculture models in Datong Lakes’ crab farms. Specifically, combined supplementation with natural feed organisms and mechanical aeration may effectively mitigate benthic hypoxia and nutritional deficits, thereby promoting sustainable production in the lake-based culture of crabs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
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15 pages, 2415 KB  
Article
Energy-Dense High-Fat/High-Sucrose Diet to Induce Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in BALB/c Mice Without Genetic Modifications and Chemical Agents
by Alma Nelly Diaz-Herreros, Amaranta Sarai Valdez-Guerrero, Juan Carlos Cancino-Díaz, Luvia Enid Sánchez-Torres, Fernando Gómez-Chávez, Mónica Gricelda Arellano-Mendoza, Feliciano Tamay-Cach and Mario Eugenio Cancino-Diaz
Biology 2026, 15(2), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020109 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 23
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a highly prevalent disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, commonly associated with intake of a high-calorie diet (HCD). Although numerous T2DM murine models have been developed using C57BL/6 mice, BALB/c mice typically fail to develop the disease under [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a highly prevalent disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, commonly associated with intake of a high-calorie diet (HCD). Although numerous T2DM murine models have been developed using C57BL/6 mice, BALB/c mice typically fail to develop the disease under the same conditions. We hypothesized that diets optimized for C57BL/6 mice may be insufficient to induce T2DM in BALB/c mice. Female BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice (n = 48 each) were fed either a specific high-calorie diet (HCD) or a standard diet (SD) for ten weeks. BALB/c mice fed a specific HCD exhibited developed persistent hyperglycemia (112.6 mg/dL ± 3.4) from week 1 through week 10, while SD-fed controls maintained normal glucose levels (84.2 mg/dL ± 2.8). HCD-fed BALB/c mice showed elevated serum insulin (39.09 pg/dL ± 25.94), triglycerides (290.8 mg/dL ± 139.5), HOMA index (7.68 ± 1.49) and high post-challenge glucose along with visceral adiposity, hepatic steatosis, and pancreatic alterations. SD-fed BALB/c mice showed no such changes. Similar findings were observed in C57BL/6 mice, used as a positive disease-control group. This model demonstrates that a properly formulated HCD can induce T2DM in BALB/c mice, enabling the study of genes and molecules associated with diabetes susceptibility without requiring genetic or chemical manipulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)
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33 pages, 1777 KB  
Review
Cancer Neuroscience: Linking Neuronal Plasticity with Brain Tumor Growth and Resistance
by Doaa S. R. Khafaga, Youssef Basem, Hager Mohamed AlAtar, Abanoub Sherif, Alamer Ata, Fayek Sabry, Manar T. El-Morsy and Shimaa S. Attia
Biology 2026, 15(2), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020108 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 46
Abstract
Brain tumors, particularly glioblastoma, remain among the most lethal cancers, with limited survival benefits from current genetic and molecular-targeted approaches. Emerging evidence reveals that beyond oncogenes and mutations, neuronal plasticity, long-term potentiation, synaptic remodeling, and neurotransmitter-driven signaling play a pivotal role in shaping [...] Read more.
Brain tumors, particularly glioblastoma, remain among the most lethal cancers, with limited survival benefits from current genetic and molecular-targeted approaches. Emerging evidence reveals that beyond oncogenes and mutations, neuronal plasticity, long-term potentiation, synaptic remodeling, and neurotransmitter-driven signaling play a pivotal role in shaping tumor progression and therapeutic response. This convergence of neuroscience and oncology has given rise to the field of cancer neuroscience, which explores the bidirectional interactions between neurons and malignant cells. In this review, we summarize fundamental principles of neuronal plasticity, contrasting physiological roles with pathological reprogramming in brain tumors. We highlight how tumor cells exploit synaptic input, particularly glutamatergic signaling, to enhance proliferation, invasion, and integration into neural circuits. We further discuss how neuronal-driven feedback loops contribute to therapy resistance, including chemoresistance, radioresistance, and immune evasion, mediated through pathways such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), and calcium influx. The tumor microenvironment, including astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocyte-lineage cells, emerges as an active participant in reinforcing this neuron-tumor ecosystem. Finally, this review explores therapeutic opportunities targeting neuronal plasticity, spanning pharmacological interventions, neuromodulation approaches (transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), optogenetics), and computational/artificial intelligence frameworks that model neuron tumor networks to predict personalized therapy. Also, we propose future directions integrating connect omics, neuroinformatics, and brain organoid models to refine translational strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Young Researchers in Neuroscience)
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3 pages, 177 KB  
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Reply to Pastore, E.P. Comment on “Korkmaz et al. A Deep Learning and Explainable AI-Based Approach for the Classification of Discomycetes Species. Biology 2025, 14, 719”
by Aras Fahrettin Korkmaz, Fatih Ekinci, Şehmus Altaş, Eda Kumru, Mehmet Serdar Güzel and Ilgaz Akata
Biology 2026, 15(2), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020107 - 6 Jan 2026
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Abstract
The comment raises three principal themes: (i) safeguarding statistical independence through grouping at the level of specimen/collector/site prior to splitting, (ii) preventing selection bias via fully nested preprocessing and hyperparameter tuning, and (iii) assessing shortcut learning and reporting probability calibration for decision thresholding [...] Read more.
The comment raises three principal themes: (i) safeguarding statistical independence through grouping at the level of specimen/collector/site prior to splitting, (ii) preventing selection bias via fully nested preprocessing and hyperparameter tuning, and (iii) assessing shortcut learning and reporting probability calibration for decision thresholding in ecological workflows [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Research for Complex Biological Systems)
2 pages, 146 KB  
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Comment on Korkmaz et al. A Deep Learning and Explainable AI-Based Approach for the Classification of Discomycetes Species. Biology 2025, 14, 719
by Emmanuel Pio Pastore
Biology 2026, 15(2), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020106 - 6 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 29
Abstract
To the Editor: Korkmaz et al [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Research for Complex Biological Systems)
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