You seem to have javascript disabled. Please note that many of the page functionalities won't work as expected without javascript enabled.

Search for Articles:

Title / Keyword

Author / Affiliation / Email

Journal

Article Type

Advanced Search

Section

Special Issue

Volume

Issue

Number

Page

Logical OperatorOperator

Search Text

Search Type

Journal Description

Biology

Biology is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of biological sciences published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society for Nitrogen Fixation (SEFIN) and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) are affiliated with Biology, and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Biology) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Agricultural and Biological Sciences )
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.

Impact Factor: 3.6 (2023); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.8 (2023)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2079-7737

Latest Articles

42 pages, 4503 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Huntington’s Disease Biomarkers: A 10-Year Bibliometric Analysis and a Comprehensive Review

by Sarah Aqel, Jamil Ahmad, Iman Saleh, Aseela Fathima, Asmaa A. Al Thani, Wael M. Y. Mohamed and Abdullah A. Shaito

Biology 2025, 14(2), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020129 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2025

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) cause progressive neuronal loss and are a significant public health concern, with NDs projected to become the second leading global cause of death within two decades. Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare, progressive ND caused by an autosomal-dominant mutation in [...] Read more.

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) cause progressive neuronal loss and are a significant public health concern, with NDs projected to become the second leading global cause of death within two decades. Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare, progressive ND caused by an autosomal-dominant mutation in the huntingtin (HTT) gene, leading to severe neuronal loss in the brain and resulting in debilitating motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. Given the complex pathology of HD, biomarkers are essential for performing early diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating treatment efficacy. However, the identification of consistent HD biomarkers is challenging due to the prolonged premanifest HD stage, HD’s heterogeneous presentation, and its multiple underlying biological pathways. This study involves a 10-year bibliometric analysis of HD biomarker research, revealing key research trends and gaps. The study also features a comprehensive literature review of emerging HD biomarkers, concluding the need for better stratification of HD patients and well-designed longitudinal studies to validate HD biomarkers. Promising candidate wet HD biomarkers— including neurofilament light chain protein (NfL), microRNAs, the mutant HTT protein, and specific metabolic and inflammatory markers— are discussed, with emphasis on their potential utility in the premanifest HD stage. Additionally, biomarkers reflecting brain structural deficits and motor or behavioral impairments, such as neurophysiological (e.g., motor tapping, speech, EEG, and event-related potentials) and imaging (e.g., MRI, PET, and diffusion tensor imaging) biomarkers, are evaluated. The findings underscore that the discovery and validation of reliable HD biomarkers urgently require improved patient stratification and well-designed longitudinal studies. Reliable biomarkers, particularly in the premanifest HD stage, are crucial for optimizing HD clinical management strategies, enabling personalized treatment approaches, and advancing clinical trials of HD-modifying therapies. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 559 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reference Data for a Treadmill-Based Peak Oxygen Uptake (VO_2peak) in Older Adults

by Peter Sagat

Biology 2025, 14(2), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020128 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2025

Background: Although the level of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in older adults has been well documented, little evidence has been provided regarding sex- and age-specific reference standards. Therefore, the main purpose of the study was to examine objectively measured CRF in older adults based [...] Read more.

Background: Although the level of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in older adults has been well documented, little evidence has been provided regarding sex- and age-specific reference standards. Therefore, the main purpose of the study was to examine objectively measured CRF in older adults based on sex and age. Methods: This observational study included 450 men (N = 170) and women (N = 280) aged ≥60 years with mean ± standard deviation (SD) for age (67.4 ± 5.4), height (165.7 ± 8.6 cm), weight (75.1 ± 13.3 kg) and body mass index (BMI, 27.1 ± 3.9 kg/m²). Participants performed an incremental exercise ramp test until exhaustion on a treadmill, and the outcome of CRF was presented as peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak) in milliliters per kilogram of body mass per minute (ml/kg/min). Results: Relative VO_2peak values were 37.3 ± 7.1, 30.3 ± 6.6, 24.8 ± 5.4 and 21.7 ± 5.8 mL/kg/min for men aged 60–64 years, 65–69 years, 70–74 years and ≥75 years. For the same age groups in women, values were 30.5 ± 4.8, 27.1 ± 5.4, 22.4 ± 3.4 and 18.9 ± 4.7 mL/kg/min. Age-related declines were observed in both men and women (p < 0.001). In a sex–age interaction term, significant main effects occurred, where men in every age group exhibited higher VO_2peak values, compared to women in the same age groups. Conclusions: This study shows that CRF needs to be assessed by considering sex and age as significant predictors. Thus, sex- and age-specific reference findings may serve as an avenue to monitor, track and compare between older adults of different nationalities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 774 KiB

Open AccessReview

Murine Models in Oral Research: A Narrative Review of Experimental Approaches and Cardiovascular Implications

by Asmaa Elhaieg, Ahmed Farag, Ahmed S. Mandour, Miki Hirose, Ahmed Elfadadny and Ryou Tanaka

Biology 2025, 14(2), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020127 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2025

Oral research using murine models spans a broad spectrum of studies, including investigations into oral infections such as periodontitis and peri-implantitis, wound healing, periodontal responses to orthodontic treatment, and occlusal overload. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of murine models employed [...] Read more.

Oral research using murine models spans a broad spectrum of studies, including investigations into oral infections such as periodontitis and peri-implantitis, wound healing, periodontal responses to orthodontic treatment, and occlusal overload. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of murine models employed in oral research, with a particular focus on their relevance in studying systemic implications, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The objectives of this review are twofold: first, to highlight the diversity of experimental methods utilized in murine oral research, such as ligature placement, bacterial inoculation, surgical interventions, and mechanical manipulations; second, to explore how these models enhance our understanding of oral–systemic interactions. The findings demonstrate that murine models have significantly contributed to uncovering how oral conditions influence systemic health. Models of oral infections reveal pathways linking systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and atherogenesis, while studies on wound healing and mechanical stress offer valuable insights into periodontal tissue responses and regeneration under various conditions. These diverse findings underscore the versatility of murine models in addressing key questions across oral health research. By replicating human disease mechanisms, murine models serve as powerful tools for investigating the interplay between oral health and systemic diseases, including cardiovascular dysfunction. The insights gained from these models guide the development of integrated therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating systemic inflammation and promoting periodontal regeneration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Advancements in Oral Biology)

17 pages, 2694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting the Impact of Climate Change on the Distribution of North China Leopards (Panthera pardus japonensis) in Gansu Province Using MaxEnt Modeling

by Yongqiang Yang, Wenjie Gao, Yapeng Han and Tianlin Zhou

Biology 2025, 14(2), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020126 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2025

Climate change has a profound impact on the phenology and growth of vegetation, which in turn influences the distribution and behavior of animal communities, including prey species. This dynamic shift significantly affects predator survival and activities. This study utilizes the MaxEnt model to [...] Read more.

Climate change has a profound impact on the phenology and growth of vegetation, which in turn influences the distribution and behavior of animal communities, including prey species. This dynamic shift significantly affects predator survival and activities. This study utilizes the MaxEnt model to explore how climate change impacts the distribution of the North China leopard (Panthera pardus japonensis) in the Ziwuling region of Gansu Province, China. As an endemic subspecies and apex predator, the North China leopard is vital for maintaining the structure and function of local ecosystems. Unfortunately, its population faces several threats, including habitat change, interspecies competition, and human encroachment, all of which are compounded by the ongoing effects of climate change. To assess the requirement and quality of habitat for this species, we conducted a population survey in the Ziwuling area from May 2020 to June 2022, utilizing 240 infrared cameras, which identified 46 active leopard sites. Using the MaxEnt model, we simulated habitat suitability and future distribution under different climate change scenarios based on nine environmental variables. Our results indicate that the population distribution of North China leopards is primarily influenced by the mean diurnal range (Bio2), with additional sensitivity to isothermal conditions (Bio3), temperature seasonality (Bio4), maximum temperature of the warmest month (Bio5), and annual temperature range (Bio7). We also evaluated habitat suitability across three socioeconomic pathways (SSP126, SSP245, and SSP585) for three time intervals: the 2050s (2041–2060), the 2070s (2061–2080), and the 2090s (2081–2100). The findings suggest a significant decline in high-suitability habitat for North China leopards, while areas of medium and low suitability are projected to increase. Understanding these distributional changes in North China leopards will enhance our comprehension of the region’s biogeography and inform conservation strategies aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Conservation Biology and Biodiversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1599 KiB

Open AccessReview

Utilizing Olive Fly Ecology Towards Sustainable Pest Management

by Giorgos Stavrianakis, Efstratios Sentas, Sofia Zafeirelli, Thomas Tscheulin and Thanasis Kizos

Biology 2025, 14(2), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020125 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2025

The olive fly (Bactrocera oleae, OLF) is a major pest of global significance that occurs in places where olive cultivation thrives. This paper highlights the economic and environmental damage caused by OLF infestations, including reduced olive oil yield and quality, disrupted [...] Read more.

The olive fly (Bactrocera oleae, OLF) is a major pest of global significance that occurs in places where olive cultivation thrives. This paper highlights the economic and environmental damage caused by OLF infestations, including reduced olive oil yield and quality, disrupted supply chains, and ecosystem imbalances due to heavy insecticide use. Understanding olive fly ecology is crucial for developing effective control strategies. The review explores the fly’s life cycle, its relationship with olive trees, and how environmental factors like temperature and humidity influence population dynamics. Additionally, studying the role of natural enemies and agricultural practices can pave the way for sustainable control methods that minimize environmental harm. Climate change, intensive cultivation, and the development of resistance to insecticides necessitate a shift towards sustainable practices. This includes exploring alternative control methods like biological control with natural enemies and attract-and-kill strategies. Furthermore, a deeper understanding of OLF ecology, including its response to temperature and its ability to find refuge in diverse landscapes, is critical for predicting outbreaks and implementing effective protection strategies. By employing a holistic approach that integrates ecological knowledge with sustainable control methods, we can ensure the continued viability of olive cultivation, protect the environment, and produce high-quality olive oil. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

36 pages, 1912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Proteomic Profiling of Hepatocyte-like Cells Derived from Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: De Novo Expression of Liver-Specific Enzymes

by Melania Lo Iacono, Simona Corrao, Giusi Alberti, Giandomenico Amico, Francesca Timoneri, Eleonora Russo, Annamaria Cucina, Sergio Indelicato, Francesca Rappa, Tiziana Corsello, Salvatore Saieva, Antonino Di Stefano, Francesca Di Gaudio, Pier Giulio Conaldi and Giampiero La Rocca

Biology 2025, 14(2), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020124 (registering DOI) - 24 Jan 2025

End-stage liver disease (ESLD), affecting millions worldwide, represents a challenging issue for clinical research and global public health. Liver transplantation is the gold standard therapeutic approach but shows some drawbacks. Hepatocyte transplantation could be a reliable alternative for patient treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cells [...] Read more.

End-stage liver disease (ESLD), affecting millions worldwide, represents a challenging issue for clinical research and global public health. Liver transplantation is the gold standard therapeutic approach but shows some drawbacks. Hepatocyte transplantation could be a reliable alternative for patient treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cells derived from Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord (WJ-MSCs) can differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) and show immunomodulatory functions. Due to the increasing demand for fully characterized cell therapy vehicles warranting both the safety and efficacy of treatments, in this work, we extensively characterized WJ-MSCs before and after the application of a hepatocyte-directed differentiation protocol. HLCs exhibited a morphology resembling that of hepatocytes, expressed early and late hepatic markers (α-fetoprotein, albumin, CK18, HNF4-α), and acquired hepatic functions (glycogen synthesis, xenobiotics detoxification), as also revealed by the shotgun proteomics approach. HLCs maintained the same pattern of immunomodulatory molecule expression and mesenchymal markers, other than displaying specific enzymes, suggesting these cells as promising candidates for cellular therapy of ESLD. Our work shed new light on the basic biology of HLCs, suggesting new therapeutic approaches to treat ESLD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

15 pages, 3700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Androgen Receptor Expression Governs the Seasonal Inhibition of Testicular Development and Subsequent Recovery in Rattus norvegicus caraco

by Yaqi Ying, Lewen Wang, Dawei Wang, Ning Li, Ying Song and Xiao-Hui Liu

Biology 2025, 14(2), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020123 - 24 Jan 2025

Commonly in seasonal breeding animals, testicular development is inhibited prior to Sertoli cell maturation when environmental conditions become unfavorable, with recovery occurring once conditions improve. However, the precise molecular mechanisms governing this process remain unclear. We investigated the role of androgen receptor (AR) [...] Read more.

Commonly in seasonal breeding animals, testicular development is inhibited prior to Sertoli cell maturation when environmental conditions become unfavorable, with recovery occurring once conditions improve. However, the precise molecular mechanisms governing this process remain unclear. We investigated the role of androgen receptor (AR) in the seasonal regulation of testicular development in a wild population of Rattus norvegicus caraco, a subspecies of brown rats in Northeast China residing in high-latitude regions, known for its seasonal reproductive patterns. Our results revealed a significant increase in Ar mRNA expression in wild rats with small testes less than 0.2 g and body weights ranging between 80 and 100 g during the nonbreeding season. Further examinations of Ar expression in the testicular development of R. n. caraco in the laboratory under different day lengths and temperatures that simulating breeding and nonbreeding seasons suggest that the maturation of Sertoli cells depends on the upregulation of Ar expression around a testis weight of 0.07–0.18 g, regardless of age and conditions, synchronously accompanying the initiation of the meiotic phase. When Ar expression was suppressed, testicular development was impeded around the stage of Sertoli cell maturation, resulting in decreased spermatogenesis and hindered growth in testis weight. Our findings elucidate how animals control the seasonal inhibition and subsequent recovery of testicular development by regulating Ar expression in R. n. caraco. Full article

21 pages, 6174 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Probiotics as Renal Guardians: Modulating Gut Microbiota to Combat Diabetes-Induced Kidney Damage

by Saleh Bakheet Al-Ghamdi

Biology 2025, 14(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020122 - 24 Jan 2025

Gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in various health challenges, particularly in mitigating diabetes-induced renal damage. Numerous studies have highlighted that modifying gut microbiota is a promising therapeutic strategy for preserving kidney function and mitigating diabetes-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in various health challenges, particularly in mitigating diabetes-induced renal damage. Numerous studies have highlighted that modifying gut microbiota is a promising therapeutic strategy for preserving kidney function and mitigating diabetes-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 supplementations on kidney health in a rat model of diabetes-induced renal damage. Four groups were studied: control, probiotic supplementation, diabetic, and diabetic with probiotic supplementation. Diabetes was induced using a single streptozotocin (STZ) injection after a 12 h fast, and probiotic supplementation (1 × 10⁹ CFU/kg daily) was administered two weeks prior to diabetes induction and continued throughout the experimental period. Weekly assessments included fasting blood glucose, insulin, glycation markers, and kidney function tests. Glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity were analyzed through oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin sensitivity test (IST). The microbiome was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to evaluate changes in diversity and composition. Probiotic supplementation significantly enhanced microbial diversity and composition. Alpha diversity indices such as Shannon and Chao1 demonstrated higher values in the probiotic-treated diabetic group compared to untreated diabetic rats. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, a key indicator of gut health, was also restored in the probiotic-treated diabetic group. Results: Probiotic supplementation significantly improved glycemic control, reduced fasting blood glucose levels, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats. Antioxidant enzyme levels, depleted in untreated diabetic rats, were restored, reflecting reduced oxidative stress. Histological analysis showed better kidney structure, reduced inflammation, and decreased fibrosis. Furthermore, the Comet assay results confirmed a reduction in DNA damage in probiotic-treated diabetic rats. Conclusion: Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 supplementation demonstrated significant protective effects against diabetes-induced renal damage by restoring gut microbiota diversity, improving glycemic control, and reducing oxidative stress. These findings highlight the potential of targeting the gut microbiota and its systemic effects on kidney health as a therapeutic approach for managing diabetes-related complications. Further research is needed to optimize probiotic treatments and assess their long-term benefits in diabetes management and kidney health. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanisms of HAHV-1 Interaction with Hemocytes in Haliotis diversicolor supertexta: An In Vitro Study

by Mao-Le Wei, Ya-Nan Li, Jing-Li Wang, Cui-Ping Ma, Hui-Gang Kang, Pei-Jun Li, Xiang Zhang, Bo-Wen Huang and Chang-Ming Bai

Biology 2025, 14(2), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020121 - 24 Jan 2025

Haliotid herpesvirus 1 (HAHV-1) causes significant damage to the abalone aquaculture industry. Knowledge of HAHV-1 invasion and host defense mechanisms is limited due to the lack of stable molluscan cell lines. The present study established an in vitro infection model of HAHV-1 using [...] Read more.

Haliotid herpesvirus 1 (HAHV-1) causes significant damage to the abalone aquaculture industry. Knowledge of HAHV-1 invasion and host defense mechanisms is limited due to the lack of stable molluscan cell lines. The present study established an in vitro infection model of HAHV-1 using the primary suspension cultures of hemocytes from Haliotis diversicolor supertexta and Haliotis discus hannai. The cytopathic effects of HAHV-1 on adherent-cultured hemocytes of both species were also investigated. The HAHV-1 DNA loads were firstly monitored by means of quantitative PCR during the development of viral infection, and subsequently the mechanism of interaction between HAHV-1 and hemocytes was explored by means of a transcriptome analysis. H. diversicolor supertexta hemocytes exhibited a high degree of susceptibility to HAHV-1, with viral loads reaching a peak of 4.0 × 10⁷ copies/ng DNA. In contrast, no significant replication was observed in H. discus hannai hemocytes. Transcriptome analysis revealed that HAHV-1 evades the host immune response in the early stages of infection, and hijacks the host’s energy and redox metabolism to promote its replication at the late stages. Consequently, this study provides a valuable reference point for the investigation of virus−host interaction between HAHV-1 and abalone in vitro. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases in Aquaculture: Mechanisms, Detection, and Control)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

25 pages, 5954 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Variations in Macrobenthos Communities and Their Relationship with Environmental Factors in the Alpine Yuqu River

by Jianmin Ge, Jianyong Chen, Fangze Zi, Tianjian Song, Linghui Hu, Zhouminkang He, Lei Wu, Yandong Ding and Hongtao Li

Biology 2025, 14(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020120 - 24 Jan 2025

This study investigated the spatial and temporal variations of macrobenthos community structure in the Yuqu River Basin during the dry and wet seasons due to environmental factors. This study quantified the independent and interactive contributions of hydrophysical, hydrochemical, and climatic factors to the [...] Read more.

This study investigated the spatial and temporal variations of macrobenthos community structure in the Yuqu River Basin during the dry and wet seasons due to environmental factors. This study quantified the independent and interactive contributions of hydrophysical, hydrochemical, and climatic factors to the community structure through a variance decomposition analysis (VPA). The study findings indicate that during May (the dry season), factors such as water depth, flow velocity, dissolved oxygen, and air temperature exhibit relatively minor fluctuations, rendering the aquatic environment more stable than in the rainy season. This stability is particularly conducive to the maintenance of the macrobenthic community structure and species diversity, which is especially evident in aquatic insects with nesting habits, such as those belonging to the Trichoptera order (including genera like Glossosoma, Glossosomatidae, and Georodes). In contrast, during August (the rainy season), substantial precipitation alters the thermal conditions of the river, increases flow velocity, raises water levels, and introduces a significant influx of organic matter through sedimentation. This distinctive ecological environment fosters unique adaptive strategies among macrobenthic organisms. Notwithstanding a notable decline in species diversity during this particular phase, there is a concurrent increase in the abundance of individual organisms, which is indicative of the populations’ remarkable capacity to swiftly adapt to environmental heterogeneity. Research has demonstrated that macrobenthic communities within the Yuqu River Basin adopt pronounced adaptive tactics that vary significantly between seasons. During the dry season, these macrobenthic fauna rely heavily on the stability of their physical habitat. In stark contrast, they are compelled to navigate and cope with the more intricate and dynamic changes in hydrological and chemical conditions that characterize the rainy season. The presented results uncover the sensitive responsiveness of the macrobenthic fauna to seasonal hydrological and environmental fluctuations in high-altitude river systems and their adaptive strategies under diverse ecological stressors. Arthropods, in particular, exhibit a marked sensitivity to seasonal hydrological and environmental changes. This study delves into the biodiversity of high-altitude river ecosystems, analyzing the ecological environment and the distribution patterns and seasonal variation characteristics of macrobenthic communities. This study aims to examine how diverse seasons and hydroclimatic conditions modulate the composition of macrobenthic assemblages within the tributaries and principal channels of high-altitude river systems, thereby establishing a foundational reference for future water ecosystem assessments in such regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ecology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nitrophos Fertilizer on Pollinator Dynamics and Onion Seed Yield

by Syeda Fatima Bukhari, Mudssar Ali, Fawad Zafar Ahmad Khan and Raimondas Mozūratis

Biology 2025, 14(2), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020119 - 23 Jan 2025

The yield of flowering crops depends on multiple factors, with pollination and the availability of nutrients being particularly crucial. However, fewer studies have explored the combined effects of nutrients and insect-mediated pollination on onions (Allium cepa L.). Here, we studied how different [...] Read more.

The yield of flowering crops depends on multiple factors, with pollination and the availability of nutrients being particularly crucial. However, fewer studies have explored the combined effects of nutrients and insect-mediated pollination on onions (Allium cepa L.). Here, we studied how different levels of insect pollination (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100%) and nitrophos fertilizer application (188, 375, and 750 kg/hectare) affect onion seed yield. We found that pollination benefits to yield were maximum at intermediate levels of nitrophos availability. A higher pollinator abundance was recorded at a high nitrophos level, followed by intermediate and low levels. Syrphid flies and honey bees were the most abundant insect pollinators. The abundance of honey bees was higher at a low nitrophos level, while syrphid flies were more abundant at a higher nitrophos level. Moreover, the umbel weight and seed number were higher at the intermediate fertilizer level. Also, single visits by insect pollinators were observed, and the highest umbel weight was found at the intermediate fertilizer level with a single visit from A. florea. This finding provides evidence that resource and pollination availability have interactive, nonlinear effects on seed production. Our results also support ecological intensification as a reliable strategy for sustainable agro-ecosystem management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pollination Biology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Metabolite Profiling Between Cordyceps sinensis and Other Cordyceps by Untargeted UHPLC-MS/MS

by Jing Ma, Zhenjiang Chen, Kamran Malik and Chunjie Li

Biology 2025, 14(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020118 - 23 Jan 2025

Cordyceps sinensis is a second-class, nationally protected, medicinal fungi and serves as a functional nutrient in China. C. sinensis is extremely scarce due to its peculiar growing environment and the extensive gathering practices carried out by humans. A large number of counterfeit products [...] Read more.

Cordyceps sinensis is a second-class, nationally protected, medicinal fungi and serves as a functional nutrient in China. C. sinensis is extremely scarce due to its peculiar growing environment and the extensive gathering practices carried out by humans. A large number of counterfeit products for this fungi have also emerged in the market. At present, there is a lack of research on the differential metabolites of C. sinensis and its counterfeit products. The current study used an LC-MS non-targeted metabolomics method to compare the differences in metabolites between C. sinensis and other Cordyceps. The results indicated that there were significant differences in the metabolites between C. sinensis and the others. The 18 superclasses were found to have differences, involving lipids, organic acids, nucleosides, carbohydrates, amino acids, vitamins, and their derivatives. Compared with the other four groups of Cordyceps, 8 metabolites with significant differences were screened. In addition, the types and abundance of different metabolites of nucleosides of C. sinensis were superior compared to other Cordyceps (e.g., 5-Methyldioxycytidine, didanosine, cytidine, etc.). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the metabolism of arginine and proline, and glycerophosphate metabolism were the two significant differences in the metabolic pathways between C. sinensis and other Cordyceps. The research results provide a reference for identifying the authenticity of C. sinensis using non-targeted metabolic methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessReview

Early Detection of the Pathogenetic Variants of Homologous Recombination Repair Genes in Prostate Cancer: Critical Analysis and Experimental Design

by Irene Bottillo, Alessandro Sciarra, Giulio Bevilacqua, Alessandro Gentilucci, Beatrice Sciarra, Valerio Santarelli, Stefano Salciccia, Francesca Bacigalupo, Francesco Pastacaldi, Maria Pia Ciccone, Laura De Marchis, Daniele Santini, Fabio Massimo Magliocca, Elisabetta Merenda, Flavio Forte and Paola Grammatico

Biology 2025, 14(2), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020117 - 23 Jan 2025

It has been shown that the pathogenic variants (PVs) of the DNA Damage Response (DDR) genes, whether of a germinal or somatic nature, represent a predictive biomarker of high sensitivity to treatment with inhibitors of the enzyme poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) in patients with [...] Read more.

It has been shown that the pathogenic variants (PVs) of the DNA Damage Response (DDR) genes, whether of a germinal or somatic nature, represent a predictive biomarker of high sensitivity to treatment with inhibitors of the enzyme poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) in patients with hormone-resistant metastatic prostate cancer (HRPCa). Moreover, the detection of PVs of the Homologous Recombination Repair (HRR) genes in PCa patients can help to define the patient’s prognosis and the choice of the therapeutic procedure. Among men with metastatic PCa, the frequency of PVs in HRR genes ranges from 11% to 33%, which is a significantly higher rate compared to non-metastatic PCa, where the incidence is between 5% and 10%. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) results were more commonly obtained from newly acquired somatic samples compared to archived samples (prostate biopsy or prostatectomy). We developed an experimental multidisciplinary prospective study in patients with a new diagnosis of high-risk PCa at biopsy. The aim was to evaluate the presence of PVs of different HRR genes in patients with the first diagnosis of PCa in relation to a metastatic or non-metastatic stage, tumor aggressiveness, and early risk of progression. Among 43 initial tumor samples from 22 patients, 25 samples from 12 patients were selected for library preparation based on their DNA concentration and quality. After the NGS, 14 different DNA variants were prioritized. Oncogenetic and likely oncogenetic variants were found in the ATM, BRCA1, PTEN, KMT2D, and CDH1 genes. Moreover, variants of uncertain significance were found in ATM, DDR2, FANCA, FOXA1, PLCB4, PTCH1, and RB1. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Sight in Cancer Genetics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2838 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alternaria alternata JTF001 Metabolites Recruit Beneficial Microorganisms to Reduce the Parasitism of Orobanche aegyptiaca in Tomato

by Wenfang Luo, Xingxing Ping, Junhui Zhou, Shuaijun Gao, Xin Huang, Suqin Song, Jianjun Xu and Wei He

Biology 2025, 14(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020116 - 23 Jan 2025

Orobanche aegyptiaca is a holoparasitic weed that extracts water, nutrients, and growth regulators from host plants, leading to significant yield and quality losses. Biocontrol microbial metabolites have been shown to enhance plant resistance against parasitic plants, yet the underlying microbial mechanisms remain poorly [...] Read more.

Orobanche aegyptiaca is a holoparasitic weed that extracts water, nutrients, and growth regulators from host plants, leading to significant yield and quality losses. Biocontrol microbial metabolites have been shown to enhance plant resistance against parasitic plants, yet the underlying microbial mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of Alternaria alternata JTF001 (J1) microbial metabolites in recruiting beneficial microbes to the tomato rhizosphere and promoting the establishment of a disease-suppressive microbiome. Pot experiments revealed that J1 metabolite application significantly reduced O. aegyptiaca parasitism. High-throughput sequencing of full-length 16S rRNA genes and ITS regions, along with in vitro culture assays, demonstrated an increase in the abundance of plant-beneficial bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas spp. The three candidate beneficial strains (zOTU_388, zOTU_533, and zOTU_2335) showed an increase of 5.7-fold, 5.4-fold, and 4.7-fold, respectively. These results indicate that J1 metabolites induce the recruitment of a disease-suppressive microbiome in tomato seedlings, effectively inhibiting O. aegyptiaca parasitism. Our findings suggest that microbial metabolites represent a promising strategy for managing parasitic plant infestations through microbial community modulation, offering significant implications for sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Sedative Effect of Limonene to Reduce Stress During Transportation of Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata)

by Paula Simó-Mirabet, Anyell Caderno, María José Flores-Llano, Elisia Gomes da Silva, William Schoenau, Bernardo Baldisserotto, Gonzalo Martínez-Rodríguez, Juan Miguel Mancera and Juan Antonio Martos-Sitcha

Biology 2025, 14(2), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020115 - 23 Jan 2025

Aquaculture practices often expose fish to several stressors, which may activate the stress system, decreasing welfare status and negatively affecting several physiological processes, such as growth, reproduction, or immune response [...] Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flower Position and Clonal Integration Drive Intra-Individual Floral Trait Variation in Water-Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes, Pontederiaceae)

by Guilherme Ramos Demetrio, Luziene Seixas and Flávia de Freitas Coelho

Biology 2025, 14(2), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020114 - 23 Jan 2025

Intra-individual variation in floral traits is linked to plant fitness, playing a central role in sexual selection. This variation can arise from architectural constraints, such as flower position on the inflorescence axis, and from environmental factors. In relation to the environmental influences on [...] Read more.

Intra-individual variation in floral traits is linked to plant fitness, playing a central role in sexual selection. This variation can arise from architectural constraints, such as flower position on the inflorescence axis, and from environmental factors. In relation to the environmental influences on floral traits, the most common causes of variation are linked to the presence of pollinators, to plant resource acquisition strategies and to the availability of local resource pools. We investigated how clonal integration and resource depletion through defoliation affect floral trait stability in Eichhornia crassipes, testing whether clonal integration buffer floral traits against resource limitations. Using greenhouse experiments, we manipulated clonal structure and resource availability. We assessed the effects of floral position and clonal integration on floral traits through model selection. Our results showed that basal flowers generally had larger traits, more attractive to pollinators, and isolated or defoliated ramets exhibited significant reductions in floral traits, especially at distal flowers. Clonal integration stabilized floral traits across positions by mitigating the effects of resource variability. Clonal integration in E. crassipes enhances resilience to resource depletion, likely contributing to this species invasiveness. These findings highlight the significance of clonal and architectural integration in sustaining reproductive traits under environmental stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Breeding: From Biology to Biotechnology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 4118 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Important Role of p21-Activated Kinases in Pancreatic Exocrine Function

by Irene Ramos-Alvarez and Robert T. Jensen

Biology 2025, 14(2), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020113 - 22 Jan 2025

The p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are a conserved family of serine/threonine protein kinases, which are effectors for the Rho family GTPases, namely, Rac/Cdc42. PAKs are divided into two groups: group I (PAK1–3) and group II (PAK4–6). Both groups of PAKs have been well studied [...] Read more.

The p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are a conserved family of serine/threonine protein kinases, which are effectors for the Rho family GTPases, namely, Rac/Cdc42. PAKs are divided into two groups: group I (PAK1–3) and group II (PAK4–6). Both groups of PAKs have been well studied in apoptosis, protein synthesis, glucose homeostasis, growth (proliferation and survival) and cytoskeletal regulation, as well as in cell motility, proliferation and cycle control. However, little is known about the role of PAKs in the secretory tissues, including in exocrine tissue, such as the exocrine pancreas (except for islet function and pancreatic cancer growth). Recent studies have provided insights supporting the importance of PAKs in exocrine pancreas. This review summarizes the recent insights into the importance of PAKs in the exocrine pancreas by reviewing their presence and activation; the ability of GI hormones/neurotransmitters/GFs/post-receptor activators to activate them; the kinetics of their activation; the participation of exocrine-tissue PAKs in activating the main growth-signaling cascade; their roles in the stimulation of enzyme secretion; finally, their roles in pancreatitis. These insights suggest that PAKs could be more important in exocrine/secretory tissues than currently appreciated and that their roles should be explored in more detail in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Unveiling Disease Molecular Signaling Pathways: Targeted Drug Discoveries for Pathway Modulation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomarkers in Skin Mucus for a Minimally Invasive Approach to Stress in Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) Fry

by Hernán Antonio Alzate-Díaz, Laura Fernández-Alacid and Sandra Clemencia Pardo-Carrasco

Biology 2025, 14(2), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020112 - 22 Jan 2025

In a context where aquaculture continues to grow, it is essential to understand how culture conditions influence fish stress. The welfare of red tilapia fry (Oreochromis sp.), weighing 0.6 ± 0.3 g and with an initial total length of 3.548 ± 0.285 [...] Read more.

In a context where aquaculture continues to grow, it is essential to understand how culture conditions influence fish stress. The welfare of red tilapia fry (Oreochromis sp.), weighing 0.6 ± 0.3 g and with an initial total length of 3.548 ± 0.285 cm, was evaluated in two culture systems, biofloc and land-based ponds, over a period of 30 days through biomarkers associated with the skin mucosa, such as protein, glucose, lactate, and the hormone cortisol, in addition to their relationships with protein, seeking a comprehensive view of the physiological state and stress of these fish. Mucus samples were thawed and prepared by mechanical homogenization and centrifugation. The results reveal that the biofloc system provides a more conducive environment for welfare, evidenced by higher mucus protein levels of 1.598 ± 0.733 mg/mL, 2.316 ± 1.01 mg/mL, and 1.203 ± 0.640 mg/mL for culture days 10, 20 and 30, respectively, and lower cortisol > 1 ng/mL and lactate contents 1799 ± 1135 µg/mL, 30,271 ± 24,613 µg/mL, and 21,829 ± 23,507 µg/mL for culture days 10, 20 and 30, respectively, compounds largely associated with animal stress. This highlights the direct relationship between culture, environment and fish health and highlights skin mucus as a valuable minimally invasive biomarker. It is also important to note that improved fish welfare supports fish growth and health and promotes more sustainable aquaculture practices, contributing to more efficient and responsible production in the industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic and Stress Responses in Aquatic Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Early Growth of Maize Under Waterlogging Stress, as Measured by Growth, Biochemical, and Molecular Characteristics

by Ana Nikolić, Manja Božić, Nikola Delić, Ksenija Marković, Marija Milivojević, Zoran Čamdžija and Dragana Ignjatović Micić

Biology 2025, 14(2), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020111 - 22 Jan 2025

An effective strategy to address the impacts of climate change on maize involves early planting, which mitigates drought stress during critical growth phases, preventing yield reductions. The research assessed two maize inbred lines (sensitive and tolerant to low temperature) under conditions of waterlogging [...] Read more.

An effective strategy to address the impacts of climate change on maize involves early planting, which mitigates drought stress during critical growth phases, preventing yield reductions. The research assessed two maize inbred lines (sensitive and tolerant to low temperature) under conditions of waterlogging stress. This is crucial since early sowing often faces both low temperatures and heavy rain. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular responses were recorded after 24 h, 72 h, and 7 days of stress during the growth stage of 5-day-old seedlings. The findings indicated a more pronounced decline in all morphological characteristics in the sensitive line. Both genotypes displayed an increased root-to-shoot ratio, suggesting that the shoots deteriorate more rapidly than the roots. Physiological evaluations demonstrated that the tolerant line was more effective in managing ROS levels compared to the sensitive line. The involvement of H₂O₂ in aerenchyma formation implies that the decreased POD activity and elevated MDA levels observed after seven days may be associated with aerenchyma development in the tolerant line. Genes essential for PSII function revealed that waterlogging adversely affected photosynthesis in the sensitive genotype. In summary, the low-temperature tolerant genotype exhibited significant resilience to waterlogging, indicating potential interaction between the pathways governing these two abiotic stressors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2110 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mechanobiological Approach for Intestinal Mucosal Immunology

by Hyeyun Kim, Se-Hui Lee and Jin-Young Yang

Biology 2025, 14(2), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020110 - 22 Jan 2025

The intestinal area is composed of diverse cell types that harmonize gut homeostasis, which is influenced by both endogenous and exogenous factors. Notably, the environment of the intestine is exposed to several types of mechanical forces, including shear stress generated by fluid flow, [...] Read more.

The intestinal area is composed of diverse cell types that harmonize gut homeostasis, which is influenced by both endogenous and exogenous factors. Notably, the environment of the intestine is exposed to several types of mechanical forces, including shear stress generated by fluid flow, compression and stretch generated by luminal contents and peristaltic waves of the intestine, and stiffness attributed to the extracellular matrix. These forces play critical roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Many efforts have been made to simulate the actual intestinal environment in vitro. The three-dimensional organoid culture system has emerged as a powerful tool for studying the mechanism of the intestinal epithelial barrier, mimicking rapidly renewing epithelium from intestinal stem cells (ISCs) in vivo. However, many aspects of how mechanical forces, such as shear stress, stiffness, compression, and stretch forces, influence the intestinal area remain unresolved. Here, we review the recent studies elucidating the impact of mechanical forces on intestinal immunity, interaction with the gut microbiome, and intestinal diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanobiology 2.0)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

More Articles...

Submit to Biology Review for Biology

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

View More...

Latest Books

More Books and Reprints...

E-Mail Alert

News

21 January 2025
MDPI’s Newly Launched Journals in December 2024

7 January 2025
MDPI INSIGHTS: The CEO's Letter #19 - Reflecting on 2024, Society Journals, OA Germany

25 December 2024
Meet Us at the 17^th European Conference on Fungal Genetics (ECFG17), 2–5 March 2025, Dublin, Ireland

More News & Announcements...

Topics

Propose a Topic

Topic in Biology, Diversity, IJPB, Plants, Taxonomy, Ecologies, Sustainability

Diversity and Conservation of Flora in Africa Topic Editors: Shengwei Wang, Veronicah Mutele Ngumbau, Yadong Zhou, Desalegn Chala, Guangwan Hu
Deadline: 31 March 2025

Topic in Biology, Ecologies, Forests, Microorganisms, Plants

Litter Decompositions: From Individuals to Ecosystems Topic Editors: Wen Zhou, Guihua Liu
Deadline: 30 May 2025

Topic in Biology, JCM, Diagnostics, Dentistry Journal

Assessment of Craniofacial Morphology: Traditional Methods and Innovative Approaches Topic Editors: Nikolaos Gkantidis, Carlalberta Verna
Deadline: 20 June 2025

Topic in Animals, Aquaculture Journal, Biology, Fishes, Hydrobiology

The Importance of Fish Phenotype in Aquaculture, Fisheries and Conservation Topic Editors: Zonghang Zhang, Xiumei Zhang
Deadline: 31 August 2025

More Topics

Conferences

Announce Your Conference

More Conferences...

Special Issues

Propose a Special Issue

Special Issue in Biology

Evolutionary Biology from an Information Theory Approach Guest Editor: Antonio Carvajal-Rodríguez
Deadline: 31 January 2025

Special Issue in Biology

Biological Advances in Pregnancy Complications Guest Editors: Arumugam R. Jayakumar, Michael J. Paidas
Deadline: 31 January 2025

Special Issue in Biology

Metabolism of Industrial Microorganisms Guest Editors: Xuehong Zhang, Xin-Qing Zhao, Kai Li
Deadline: 31 January 2025

Special Issue in Biology

Approaches for the Reconstruction of Protein Families’ and Superfamilies’ Evolution with Consequences for De Novo Protein Design-2nd Edition Guest Editor: Marcel Zamocky
Deadline: 31 January 2025

More Special Issues

Topical Collections

Topical Collection in Biology

Applied Physics in Cancer Cells Collection Editors: Jagoba Iturri, José Toca-Herrera

Topical Collection in Biology

Gap Junctions and Connexins in Physiology, Pharmacology and Disease Collection Editors: Yi Zhu, Sebastian Curti, Xinbo Li

Topical Collection in Biology

Mitochondria and Stress Responses Collection Editor: Bernard Mignotte

Topical Collection in Biology

Fish Immunity: From Genomes to Functional Understanding Collection Editor: Brian Dixon

More Topical Collections

Back to TopTop