Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
5.7
3.6
Journals
Biology
Special Issues
Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian...
share announcement

Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue

A special issue of Biology (ISSN 2079-7737).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 8294

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Francesco Cappello

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
Interests: cell differentiation; tissue homeostasis; organ remodeling; cell stress; chaperones; heat shock proteins; chaperonopathies; exosomes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Maria Grazia Palmerini

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
Interests: reproduction; infertility; assisted reproductive technology; cryopreservation; environmental pollutants; oocyte; ovarian follicles; spermatozoa; embryos; histology; electron microscopy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Italian Society of Experimental Biology was established in Pavia, Italy, in 1925 by the “Gotha” of famous Italian physicians and researchers. Among them, Camillo Golgi, Giuseppe Levi, Camillo Artom, Maurizio Ascoli, Luigi Califano and Luigi Condorelli, along other famous “Masters” of the Italian academy are reported in the Constitute Act of the Society. They understood that the key for discovering the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis was in the hands of experimental biologists, scientists who applied experimental methods to biomedical research.

With this Special Issue, we want to celebrate one of the most important and popular scientific societies in Italy (and probably in the world) by publishing both original papers and reviews produced by researchers worldwide on the topics of experimental biology, such as anatomy, histology, embryology, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, pharmacology, anthropology, cancerology, pathology, microbiology, etc. The fields of research also include advanced microscopy and imaging, aging, aquatic environments, artificial intelligence applied to biomedicine, biodiversity and modeling, biology of reproduction and infertility, biomedical and pharmaceutical biotechnology, cellular stress, environment and health, micro- and nanovesicles in biomedicine, neuroscience, nutrition and food supplements, plant biology, precision medicine, regenerative medicine, structural biology, urban biodiversity and climate change, and other arguments related to the emerging concept of “one health”.

Your contribution to this Special Issue will be very welcome!

Prof. Dr. Francesco Cappello
Dr. Maria Grazia Palmerini
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biology is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

 

Keywords

  • anatomy
  • histology
  • embryology
  • physiology
  • biochemistry
  • cell biology
  • genetics
  • pharmacology
  • anthropology
  • cancerology
  • pathology
  • microbiology
  • advanced microscopy and imaging
  • aging
  • aquatic environments
  • artificial intelligence applied to biomedicine
  • biodiversity and modeling
  • biology of reproduction and infertility
  • biomedical and pharmaceutical biotechnology
  • cellular stress
  • environment and health
  • micro- and nanovesicles in biomedicine
  • neuroscience
  • nutrition and food supplements
  • plant biology
  • precision medicine
  • regenerative medicine
  • structural biology
  • urban biodiversity and climate change

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

19 pages, 3304 KiB  
Article
Nanovesicular Mediation of the Gut–Brain Axis by Probiotics: Insights into Irritable Bowel Syndrome
by Radha Santonocito, Letizia Paladino, Alessandra Maria Vitale, Giuseppa D'Amico, Francesco Paolo Zummo, Paolo Pirrotta, Samuele Raccosta, Mauro Manno, Salvatore Accomando, Francesco D’Arpa, Francesco Carini, Rosario Barone, Francesca Rappa, Antonella Marino Gammazza, Fabio Bucchieri, Francesco Cappello and Celeste Caruso Bavisotto
Biology 2024, 13(5), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050296 - 25 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2523
Abstract
Background: Dysbiosis, influenced by poor diet or stress, is associated with various systemic diseases. Probiotic supplements are recognized for stabilizing gut microbiota and alleviating gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study focused on the tryptophan pathways, which are important for the [...] Read more.
Background: Dysbiosis, influenced by poor diet or stress, is associated with various systemic diseases. Probiotic supplements are recognized for stabilizing gut microbiota and alleviating gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study focused on the tryptophan pathways, which are important for the regulation of serotonin levels, and on host physiology and behavior regulation. Methods: Nanovesicles were isolated from the plasma of subjects with chronic diarrhea, both before and after 60 days of consuming a probiotic mix (Acronelle®, Bromatech S.r.l., Milan, Italy). These nanovesicles were assessed for the presence of Tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (TDO 2). Furthermore, the probiotics mix, in combination with H2O2, was used to treat HT29 cells to explore its cytoprotective and anti-stress effect. Results: In vivo, levels of TDO 2 in nanovesicles were enhanced in the blood after probiotic treatment, suggesting a role in the gut–brain axis. In the in vitro model, a typical H2O2-induced stress effect occurred, which the probiotics mix was able to recover, showing a cytoprotective effect. The probiotics mix treatment significantly reduced the heat shock protein 60 kDa levels and was able to preserve intestinal integrity and barrier function by restoring the expression and redistribution of tight junction proteins. Moreover, the probiotics mix increased the expression of TDO 2 and serotonin receptors. Conclusions: This study provides evidence for the gut–brain axis mediation by nanovesicles, influencing central nervous system function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

12 pages, 3875 KiB  
Review
Myo-Inositol and Its Derivatives: Their Roles in the Challenges of Infertility
by Martina Placidi, Giovanni Casoli, Carla Tatone, Giovanna Di Emidio and Arturo Bevilacqua
Biology 2024, 13(11), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13110936 - 16 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1025
Abstract
Myo-inositol (MYO) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI) are the two most significant isomeric forms of inositol, playing a critical role in intracellular signaling. MYO is the most abundant form of inositol in nature; DCI is produced from MYO through epimerization by an insulin-dependent enzyme. Recently, [...] Read more.
Myo-inositol (MYO) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI) are the two most significant isomeric forms of inositol, playing a critical role in intracellular signaling. MYO is the most abundant form of inositol in nature; DCI is produced from MYO through epimerization by an insulin-dependent enzyme. Recently, it has been demonstrated that inositol may influence oocyte maturation and improve intracellular Ca2+ oscillation in the oocytes, and it has been proposed as a potential intervention for restoring spontaneous ovulation. The MYO concentration in human follicular fluid is considered a bioindicator of oocyte quality. In the ovary, DCI modulates the activity of aromatase, thus regulating androgen synthesis. Under physiological conditions, the MYO/DCI ratio is maintained at 40:1 in plasma. In women with PCOS, the MYO/DCI ratio is lowered to 0:2:1, contributing to elevated androgen production. By regulating FSH signaling, MYO administration increases the number of high-quality embryos available for transfer in poor responder patients. Finally, by acting downstream to insulin signaling, inositol administration during pregnancy may represent a novel strategy for counteracting gestational diabetes. These findings show that diet supplementation with inositol may be a promising strategy to address female infertility and sustain a healthy pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 579 KiB  
Review
Microgravity and Human Body: Unraveling the Potential Role of Heat-Shock Proteins in Spaceflight and Future Space Missions
by Olga Maria Manna, Stefano Burgio, Domiziana Picone, Adelaide Carista, Alessandro Pitruzzella, Alberto Fucarino and Fabio Bucchieri
Biology 2024, 13(11), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13110921 - 13 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1193
Abstract
In recent years, the increasing number of long-duration space missions has prompted the scientific community to undertake a more comprehensive examination of the impact of microgravity on the human body during spaceflight. This review aims to assess the current knowledge regarding the consequences [...] Read more.
In recent years, the increasing number of long-duration space missions has prompted the scientific community to undertake a more comprehensive examination of the impact of microgravity on the human body during spaceflight. This review aims to assess the current knowledge regarding the consequences of exposure to an extreme environment, like microgravity, on the human body, focusing on the role of heat-shock proteins (HSPs). Previous studies have demonstrated that long-term exposure to microgravity during spaceflight can cause various changes in the human body, such as muscle atrophy, changes in muscle fiber composition, cardiovascular function, bone density, and even immune system functions. It has been postulated that heat-shock proteins (HSPs) may play a role in mitigating the harmful effects of microgravity-induced stress. According to past studies, heat-shock proteins (HSPs) are upregulated under simulated microgravity conditions. This upregulation assists in the maintenance of the proper folding and function of other proteins during stressful conditions, thereby safeguarding the physiological systems of organisms from the detrimental effects of microgravity. HSPs could also be used as biomarkers to assess the level of cellular stress in tissues and cells exposed to microgravity. Therefore, modulation of HSPs by drugs and genetic or environmental techniques could prove to be a potential therapeutic strategy to reduce the negative physiological consequences of long-duration spaceflight in astronauts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2670 KiB  
Review
Advances in Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine in the Prevention and Treatment of Bone Infections
by Leticia Ramos Dantas, Gabriel Burato Ortis, Paula Hansen Suss and Felipe Francisco Tuon
Biology 2024, 13(8), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13080605 - 10 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1165
Abstract
Reconstructive and regenerative medicine are critical disciplines dedicated to restoring tissues and organs affected by injury, disease, or congenital anomalies. These fields rely on biomaterials like synthetic polymers, metals, ceramics, and biological tissues to create substitutes that integrate seamlessly with the body. Personalized [...] Read more.
Reconstructive and regenerative medicine are critical disciplines dedicated to restoring tissues and organs affected by injury, disease, or congenital anomalies. These fields rely on biomaterials like synthetic polymers, metals, ceramics, and biological tissues to create substitutes that integrate seamlessly with the body. Personalized implants and prosthetics, designed using advanced imaging and computer-assisted techniques, ensure optimal functionality and fit. Regenerative medicine focuses on stimulating natural healing mechanisms through cellular therapies and biomaterial scaffolds, enhancing tissue regeneration. In bone repair, addressing defects requires advanced solutions such as bone grafts, essential in medical and dental practices worldwide. Bovine bone scaffolds offer advantages over autogenous grafts, reducing surgical risks and costs. Incorporating antimicrobial properties into bone substitutes, particularly with metals like zinc, copper, and silver, shows promise in preventing infections associated with graft procedures. Silver nanoparticles exhibit robust antimicrobial efficacy, while zinc nanoparticles aid in infection prevention and support bone healing; 3D printing technology facilitates the production of customized implants and scaffolds, revolutionizing treatment approaches across medical disciplines. In this review, we discuss the primary biomaterials and their association with antimicrobial agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

10 pages, 731 KiB  
Brief Report
Autoimmunity against Nucleus Ambiguous Is Putatively Possible in Both Long-COVID-19 and Vaccinated Subjects: Scientific Evidence and Working Hypothesis
by Silvestro Ennio D’Anna, Alessandra Maria Vitale, Giuseppa D’Amico, Celeste Caruso Bavisotto, Pasquale Ambrosino, Francesco Cappello, Mauro Maniscalco and Antonella Marino Gammazza
Biology 2024, 13(6), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060359 - 21 May 2024
Viewed by 1432
Abstract
As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10–20% of people have experienced mid- to long-term effects following SARS-CoV-2 infection, collectively referred to as post-COVID-19 condition or long-COVID, including some neurovegetative symptoms. Numerous findings have suggested that the onset of these neurovegetative [...] Read more.
As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10–20% of people have experienced mid- to long-term effects following SARS-CoV-2 infection, collectively referred to as post-COVID-19 condition or long-COVID, including some neurovegetative symptoms. Numerous findings have suggested that the onset of these neurovegetative symptoms upon viral infection may be caused by the production of autoantibodies through molecular mimicry phenomena. Accordingly, we had previously demonstrated that 22 of the human proteins sharing putatively immunogenic peptides with SARS-CoV-2 proteins are expressed in the dorsal motor nucleus and nucleus ambiguous. Therefore, if molecular mimicry occurs following severe forms of COVID-19, there could be transitory or permanent damage in some vagal structures, resulting in a lower vagal tone and all the related clinical signs. We investigated the presence of autoantibodies against two proteins of vagal nuclei sharing a peptide with SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein using an immunoassay test on blood obtained from patients with cardiorespiratory symptoms in patients affected by ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 (long-COVID), subjects vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and subjects not vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Interestingly, putative autoantibodies were present in both long-COVID-19 and vaccinated groups, opening interesting questions about pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop