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Search Results (1,437)

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Keywords = Endocrine activity.

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13 pages, 1165 KiB  
Article
Simulation of the Adsorption Bed Process of Activated Carbon with Zinc Chloride from Spent Coffee Grounds for the Removal of Parabens in Treatment Plants
by Wagner Vedovatti Martins, Adriele Rodrigues Dos Santos, Gideã Taques Tractz, Lucas Bonfim-Rocha, Ana Paula Peron and Osvaldo Valarini Junior
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2481; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082481 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Parabens—specifically methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), propylparaben (PrP), and butylparaben (BuP)—are widely used substances in everyday life, particularly as preservatives in pharmaceutical and food products. However, these compounds are not effectively removed by conventional water and wastewater treatment processes, potentially causing disruptions to human [...] Read more.
Parabens—specifically methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), propylparaben (PrP), and butylparaben (BuP)—are widely used substances in everyday life, particularly as preservatives in pharmaceutical and food products. However, these compounds are not effectively removed by conventional water and wastewater treatment processes, potentially causing disruptions to human homeostasis and the endocrine system. This study conducted a transport and dimensional analysis through simulation of the adsorption process for these parabens, using zinc chloride-activated carbon derived from spent coffee grounds (ACZnCl2) as the adsorbent, implemented via Aspen Properties® and Aspen Adsorption®. Simulations were performed for two inlet concentrations (50 mg/L and 100 mg/L) and two adsorption column heights (3 m and 4 m), considering a volumetric flow rate representative of a medium-sized city with approximately 100,000 inhabitants. The results showed that both density and surface tension of the parabens varied linearly with increasing temperature, and viscosity exhibited a marked reduction above 30 °C. Among the tested conditions, the configuration with 50 mg∙L−1 inlet concentration and a 4 m column height demonstrated the highest adsorption capacity and better performance under adsorption–desorption equilibrium. These findings indicate that the implementation of adsorption beds on an industrial scale in water and wastewater treatment systems is both environmentally and socially viable. Full article
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24 pages, 330 KiB  
Review
Collaboration Between Endocrinologists and Dentists in the Care of Patients with Acromegaly—A Narrative Review
by Beata Wiśniewska, Kosma Piekarski, Sandra Spychała, Ewelina Golusińska-Kardach, Maria Stelmachowska-Banaś and Marzena Wyganowska
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5511; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155511 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Acromegaly is caused by an excessive secretion of growth hormone and the secondary elevation of IGF-1 levels, leading to progressive changes in multiple body systems, including the craniofacial region and oral cavity. Dental manifestations such as mandibular overgrowth, macroglossia, malocclusion, periodontal disease, and [...] Read more.
Acromegaly is caused by an excessive secretion of growth hormone and the secondary elevation of IGF-1 levels, leading to progressive changes in multiple body systems, including the craniofacial region and oral cavity. Dental manifestations such as mandibular overgrowth, macroglossia, malocclusion, periodontal disease, and prosthetic difficulties represent not only a clinical component of the disease but also a significant therapeutic and diagnostic challenge. The aim of this review is to present the current state of knowledge on the relationship between acromegaly and oral health and to analyze the role of interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and dentists in patient care. For this narrative review, a literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases covering the period from 2000 to 2025. Sixty-two peer-reviewed publications meeting the methodological and thematic criteria were included in the analysis, including original studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and case reports. The results indicate significant correlations between disease activity and the severity of periodontal and microbiological changes, while effective endocrine treatment only results in the partial regression of morphological changes. Particular attention was given to the role of the dentist in recognizing the early symptoms of the disease, planning prosthetic and surgical treatment, and monitoring therapy-related complications. Interdisciplinary collaboration models, including integrated clinics and co-managed care, were also described as optimal systemic solutions for improving treatment quality. The conclusion drawn from the analysis are as follows: there is a need for the permanent integration of dentistry into the standard of interdisciplinary care for patients with acromegaly, in both diagnostic and therapeutic dimensions. Increasing awareness among dentists and developing integrated collaboration models may reduce the time to diagnosis, improve patients’ quality of life, and enable the more effective management of craniofacial complications in the course of this rare disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
38 pages, 9212 KiB  
Review
Advanced Materials-Based Nanofiltration Membranes for Efficient Removal of Organic Micropollutants in Water and Wastewater Treatment
by Haochun Wei, Haibiao Nong, Li Chen and Shiyu Zhang
Membranes 2025, 15(8), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15080236 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The increasing use of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs), endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), and personal care products (PCPs) has led to the widespread presence of organic micropollutants (OMPs) in aquatic environments, posing a significant global challenge for environmental conservation. In recent years, advanced materials-based nanofiltration [...] Read more.
The increasing use of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs), endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), and personal care products (PCPs) has led to the widespread presence of organic micropollutants (OMPs) in aquatic environments, posing a significant global challenge for environmental conservation. In recent years, advanced materials-based nanofiltration (NF) technologies have emerged as a promising solution for water and wastewater treatment. This review begins by examining the sources of OMPs, as well as the risk of OMPs. Subsequently, the key criteria of NF membranes for OMPs are discussed, with a focus on the roles of pore size, charge property, molecular interaction, and hydrophilicity in the separation performance. Against that background, this review summarizes and analyzes recent advancements in materials such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), graphene oxide (GO), MXenes, hybrid materials, and environmentally friendly materials. It highlights the porous nature and structural diversity of organic framework materials, the advantage of inorganic layered materials in forming controllable nanochannels through stacking, the synergistic effects of hybrid materials, and the importance of green materials. Finally, the challenges related to the performance optimization, scalable fabrication, environmental sustainability, and complex separation of advanced materials-based membranes for OMP removal are discussed, along with future research directions and potential breakthroughs. Full article
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21 pages, 1359 KiB  
Article
Diagnostic Accuracy of Radiological Bone Age Methods for Assessing Skeletal Maturity in Central Precocious Puberty Girls from the Canary Islands
by Sebastián Eustaquio Martín Pérez, Isidro Miguel Martín Pérez, Ruth Molina Suárez, Jesús María Vega González and Alfonso Miguel García Hernández
Endocrines 2025, 6(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines6030039 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 178
Abstract
Background: Central precocious puberty (CPP), defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls, is increasingly prevalent worldwide. CPP is often caused by early activation of the HPG axis, leading to accelerated growth and bone maturation. However, the diagnostic [...] Read more.
Background: Central precocious puberty (CPP), defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls, is increasingly prevalent worldwide. CPP is often caused by early activation of the HPG axis, leading to accelerated growth and bone maturation. However, the diagnostic accuracy of standard bone age (BA) methods remains uncertain in this context. Objective: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of the Greulich–Pyle atlas (GPA) and Tanner–Whitehouse 3 (TW3) methods in estimating skeletal age in girls with CPP and to assess the predictive value of serum hormone levels for estimating chronological age (CA). Methods: An observational, cross-sectional diagnostic study was conducted, involving n = 109 girls aged 6–12 years with confirmed CPP (Ethics Committee approval: CHUC_2023_86; 13 July 2023). Left posteroanterior hand–wrist (PA–HW) radiographs were assessed using the GPA and TW3 methods. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and serum concentrations of estradiol, LH, FSH, DHEA-S, cortisol, TSH, and free T4 were obtained. Comparisons between CA and BA estimates were conducted using repeated-measures ANOVA, and ANCOVA was applied to examine the hormonal predictors of CA. Results: Both GPA and TW3 overestimated CA between 7 and 12 years, with the GPA showing larger deviations (up to 4.8 months). The TW3 method provided more accurate estimations, particularly at advanced pubertal stages. Estradiol (η2p = 0.188–0.197), LH (η2p = 0.061–0.068), and FSH (η2p = 0.008–0.023) emerged as the strongest endocrine predictors of CA, significantly enhancing the explanatory power of both radiological methods. Conclusions: The TW3 method demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy over GPA in girls with CPP, especially between 7 and 12 years. Integrating estradiol, LH, and FSH into BA assessment significantly improved the accuracy, supporting a more individualized and physiologically grounded diagnostic approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Endocrinology and Growth Disorders)
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16 pages, 7088 KiB  
Article
The Potential Mechanisms of Ochratoxin A in Prostate Cancer Development: An Integrated Study Combining Network Toxicology, Machine Learning, and Molecular Docking
by Hong Cai, Dandan Shen, Xiangjun Hu, Hongwei Yin and Zhangren Yan
Toxins 2025, 17(8), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17080388 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Ochratoxin A (OTA), a prevalent food contaminant, has been proposed as a potential contributor to the development of prostate cancer, although its precise mechanisms remain unclear. This study employed a comprehensive approach that integrated network toxicology, machine learning, and molecular docking to clarify [...] Read more.
Ochratoxin A (OTA), a prevalent food contaminant, has been proposed as a potential contributor to the development of prostate cancer, although its precise mechanisms remain unclear. This study employed a comprehensive approach that integrated network toxicology, machine learning, and molecular docking to clarify the role of OTA in prostate cancer. The findings indicated that OTA interacts with 364 targets related to prostate cancer, and machine learning was employed to identify five key molecular targets as priorities (ESR1, TP53, TNF, INS, and EGFR). In conjunction with the results of a functional enrichment analysis, OTA was found to possibly facilitate cancer progression by disrupting endocrine function, activating oncogenic signaling pathways, reprogramming metabolism, and modulating the tumor microenvironment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mycotoxins)
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21 pages, 1024 KiB  
Review
The Impact of Environmental Factors on the Secretion of Gastrointestinal Hormones
by Joanna Smarkusz-Zarzecka, Lucyna Ostrowska and Marcelina Radziszewska
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2544; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152544 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 315
Abstract
The enteroendocrine system of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest endocrine organ in the human body, playing a central role in the regulation of hunger, satiety, digestion, and energy homeostasis. Numerous factors—including dietary components, physical activity, and the gut microbiota—affect the secretion [...] Read more.
The enteroendocrine system of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest endocrine organ in the human body, playing a central role in the regulation of hunger, satiety, digestion, and energy homeostasis. Numerous factors—including dietary components, physical activity, and the gut microbiota—affect the secretion of GI hormones. This study aims to analyze how these factors modulate enteroendocrine function and influence systemic metabolic regulation. This review synthesizes the current scientific literature on the physiology and distribution of enteroendocrine cells and mechanisms of hormone secretion in response to macronutrients, physical activity, and microbial metabolites. Special attention is given to the interactions between gut-derived signals and central nervous system pathways involved in appetite control. Different GI hormones are secreted in specific regions of the digestive tract in response to meal composition and timing. Macronutrients, particularly during absorption, stimulate hormone release, while physical activity influences hormone concentrations, decreasing ghrelin and increasing GLP-1, PYY, and leptin levels. The gut microbiota, through fermentation and metabolite production (e.g., SCFAs and bile acids), modulates enteroendocrine activity. Species such as Akkermansia muciniphila are associated with improved gut barrier integrity and enhanced GLP-1 secretion. These combined effects contribute to appetite regulation and energy balance. Diet composition, physical activity, and gut microbiota are key modulators of gastrointestinal hormone secretion. Their interplay significantly affects appetite regulation and metabolic health. A better understanding of these relationships may support the development of personalized strategies for managing obesity and related disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Immunology)
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26 pages, 1112 KiB  
Review
The Invisible Influence: Can Endocrine Disruptors Reshape Behaviors Across Generations?
by Antonella Damiano, Giulia Caioni, Claudio D’Addario, Carmine Merola, Antonio Francioso and Michele Amorena
Stresses 2025, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses5030046 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 150
Abstract
Among the numerous compounds released as a result of human activities, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have attracted particular attention due to their widespread detection in human biological samples and their accumulation across various ecosystems. While early research primarily focused on their effects on reproductive [...] Read more.
Among the numerous compounds released as a result of human activities, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have attracted particular attention due to their widespread detection in human biological samples and their accumulation across various ecosystems. While early research primarily focused on their effects on reproductive health, it is now evident that EDCs may impact neurodevelopment, altering the integrity of neural circuits essential for cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, and social behaviors. These compounds may elicit epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, that result in altered expression patterns, potentially affecting multiple generations and contribute to long-term behavioral phenotypes. The effects of EDCs may occur though both direct and indirect mechanisms, ultimately converging on neurodevelopmental vulnerability. In particular, the gut–brain axis has emerged as a critical interface targeted by EDCs. This bidirectional communication network integrates the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. By altering the microbiota composition, modulating immune responses, and triggering epigenetic mechanisms, EDCs can act on multiple and interconnected pathways. In this context, elucidating the impact of EDCs on neurodevelopmental processes is crucial for advancing our understanding of their contribution to neurological and behavioral health risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Human and Animal Stresses)
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27 pages, 1434 KiB  
Review
Unmasking the Epigenome: Insights into Testicular Cell Dynamics and Reproductive Function
by Shabana Anjum, Yamna Khurshid, Stefan S. Du Plessis and Temidayo S. Omolaoye
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7305; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157305 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 618
Abstract
The epigenetic landscape plays a pivotal role in regulating the functions of both germ and somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells) within the testis, which are essential for male fertility. While somatic cells support germ cell maturation and testosterone synthesis, the epigenetic regulation [...] Read more.
The epigenetic landscape plays a pivotal role in regulating the functions of both germ and somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells) within the testis, which are essential for male fertility. While somatic cells support germ cell maturation and testosterone synthesis, the epigenetic regulation of germ cells is critical for proper spermatogenesis and function. Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are crucial for regulating gene expression that is essential for spermatogenesis and reproductive function. Although numerous studies have highlighted the significance of the epigenome and its implications for male reproductive health, a comprehensive overview of the existing literature and knowledge is lacking. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the role of epigenetics in spermatogenesis and reproductive health, with a specific focus on DNA methylation, histone remodeling, and small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs). Additionally, we examine the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors, such as diet, smoking, physical activity, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, on the sperm epigenome. We emphasize how these factors influence fertility, embryonic development, and potential transgenerational inheritance. This review underscores how recent advances in the understanding of the epigenetic modulation of testicular function can inform the pathophysiology of male infertility, thereby paving the way for the development of targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Spermatogenesis and Male Infertility)
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21 pages, 1625 KiB  
Article
Disrupting Defenses: Effects of Bisphenol A and Its Analogs on Human Antibody Production In Vitro
by Francesca Carlotta Passoni, Martina Iulini, Valentina Galbiati, Marina Marinovich and Emanuela Corsini
Life 2025, 15(8), 1203; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081203 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical with estrogen-like activity, known to impair immune function. BPA may act as a pro-inflammatory agent, reducing immune response efficacy, increasing bacterial load in E. coli infections, and altering immune responses in parasitic infections (Leishmania major, Nippostrongylus [...] Read more.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical with estrogen-like activity, known to impair immune function. BPA may act as a pro-inflammatory agent, reducing immune response efficacy, increasing bacterial load in E. coli infections, and altering immune responses in parasitic infections (Leishmania major, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Toxocara canis) through cytokine and regulatory T-cell modulation. Following its ban in food contact materials in Europe, several analogs have been introduced. This study assessed the immunotoxicity of BPA and six analogs, namely BPAP, BPE, BPP, BPS-MAE, BPZ, and TCBPA, by evaluating in vitro the antibody production. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy male and female donors were exposed to increasing concentrations of each compound for 24 h. After stimulation with rhIL-2 and ODN2006, IgM and IgG secretion were measured on day six. All compounds suppressed antibody production in a concentration-dependent manner, with some sex-related differences. IC50 values showed BPP as the most potent suppressor, and BPE as the weakest. Similarly, IC20 values confirmed these differences in potency, except for BPA being the weakest for IgM in males. Overall, te results do not support the idea that BPA analogs are safer than BPA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Life Sciences)
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19 pages, 9984 KiB  
Article
Concentration-Related Ultrastructural Alterations in Mouse Oocytes Following In Vitro Lindane Exposure
by Marta Gatti, Manuel Belli, Mariacarla De Rubeis, Stefania Annarita Nottola, Guido Macchiarelli, Carla Tatone, Giovanna Di Emidio and Maria Grazia Palmerini
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8320; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158320 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 206
Abstract
Lindane, a persistent organochlorine pesticide, exerts toxic effects on the female reproductive system, compromising oocyte quality and maturation. However, the effects of this pesticide on mammalian oocyte morphology and ultrastructure remain unknown. This study investigated the effects of Lindane on mouse oocyte ultrastructure [...] Read more.
Lindane, a persistent organochlorine pesticide, exerts toxic effects on the female reproductive system, compromising oocyte quality and maturation. However, the effects of this pesticide on mammalian oocyte morphology and ultrastructure remain unknown. This study investigated the effects of Lindane on mouse oocyte ultrastructure using an in vitro model with Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) at concentrations from 1 to 100 μM. The results revealed a progressive dose-related trend of alterations: at 1 μM, mild swelling of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) vesicles; at 10 μM, increased SER dilation and cytoplasmic disorganization; and at 100 μM, pronounced vacuolization, mitochondrial swelling, dense lamellar bodies (dlbs), and multivesicular bodies (MVBs) indicative of autophagic activity. Mitochondrial alterations increased significantly with concentration: 3.2 ± 0.8 (control), 5.7 ± 1.0 (1 μM), 9.4 ± 1.5 (10 μM), and 16.8 ± 2.3 (100 μM) altered mitochondria per oocyte (p < 0.01). Vacuole frequency was notably elevated at 100 μM (4.3 ± 1.1 vs. 0.7 ± 0.5 in controls), and mislocalization of organelles within the ooplasm was observed. In conclusion, Lindane-induced oocyte ultrastructural alterations were observed at all tested concentrations but were more pronounced at 100 μM. These results highlight its impact on female fertility and may guide the search for protective agents, as well as efforts to reduce environmental exposure to endocrine disruptors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exposure Pathways and Health Implications of Environmental Chemicals)
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22 pages, 1674 KiB  
Article
The Ghrelin Analog GHRP-6, Delivered Through Aquafeeds, Modulates the Endocrine and Immune Responses of Sparus aurata Following IFA Treatment
by Leandro Rodríguez-Viera, Anyell Caderno, Rebeca Martinez, Gonzalo Martinez-Rodríguez, Milagrosa Oliva, Erick Perera, Juan Miguel Mancera and Juan Antonio Martos-Sitcha
Biology 2025, 14(8), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080941 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 402
Abstract
The aquaculture industry has experienced considerable growth in recent decades, stimulating research into sustainable and functional feed formulations, mainly related to using high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly feed ingredients. The employment of immunomodulatory additives is a promising strategy to enhance fish health and [...] Read more.
The aquaculture industry has experienced considerable growth in recent decades, stimulating research into sustainable and functional feed formulations, mainly related to using high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly feed ingredients. The employment of immunomodulatory additives is a promising strategy to enhance fish health and performance. In this study, the effects of the ghrelin analog GHRP-6 peptide included in the diet (500 µg/kg of feed) on the endocrine and immune responses of Sparus aurata following Incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA) treatment were assessed. After 97 days, fish were intraperitoneally injected with 100 µL of saline solution or IFA/100 g fish and sampled 72 h post-injection. Our results indicated that fish fed GHRP-6 maintained stable plasma levels of lactate, triglycerides, and cortisol after IFA treatment, in contrast to control-fed fish, which showed significant metabolic stress. Circulating immunoglobulin levels enhanced significantly in the GHRP-6/IFA group, suggesting a stimulated humoral immune response. Transcriptomics analysis revealed that the anterior intestine was the most responsive tissue, with upregulation of il10, il15, il34, and mx1, indicating mucosal immune activation. In the spleen, GHRP-6-fed fish increased il8, il10, and ighm expression, highlighting a balanced pro- and anti-inflammatory response and support for adaptive immunity. Multivariate analysis confirmed that dietary GHRP-6 modulates immune gene expression in a tissue- and stimulus-specific manner, without inducing histological alterations in the intestine or spleen. Taken together, these preliminary results indicate that this peptide is a viable and safe dietary supplement to improve immune resilience and increase the production efficiency of S. aurata and suggest a protective effect on the fish’s immune system in this species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed)
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13 pages, 573 KiB  
Review
Developmental Programming and Postnatal Modulations of Muscle Development in Ruminants
by Kiersten Gundersen and Muhammad Anas
Biology 2025, 14(8), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080929 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 343
Abstract
Prenatal and postnatal skeletal muscle development in ruminants is coordinated by interactions between genetic, nutritional, epigenetic, and endocrine factors. This review focuses on the influence of maternal nutrition during gestation on fetal myogenesis, satellite cell dynamics, and myogenic regulatory factors expression, including MYF5 [...] Read more.
Prenatal and postnatal skeletal muscle development in ruminants is coordinated by interactions between genetic, nutritional, epigenetic, and endocrine factors. This review focuses on the influence of maternal nutrition during gestation on fetal myogenesis, satellite cell dynamics, and myogenic regulatory factors expression, including MYF5, MYOD1, and MYOG. Studies in sheep and cattle indicate that nutrient restriction or overnutrition alters muscle fiber number, the cross-sectional area, and the transcriptional regulation of myogenic genes in offspring. Postnatally, muscle hypertrophy is primarily mediated by satellite cells, which are activated via PAX7, MYOD, and MYF5, and regulated through mechanisms such as CARM1-induced chromatin remodeling and miR-31-mediated mRNA expression. Hormonal signaling via the GH–IGF1 axis and thyroid hormones further modulate satellite cell proliferation and protein accretion. Genetic variants, such as myostatin mutations in Texel sheep and Belgian Blue cattle, enhance muscle mass but may compromise reproductive efficiency. Nutritional interventions, including the plane of nutrition, supplementation strategies, and environmental stressors such as heat and stocking density, significantly influence muscle fiber composition and carcass traits. This review provides a comprehensive overview of skeletal muscle programming in ruminants, tracing the developmental trajectory from progenitor cell differentiation to postnatal growth and maturation. These insights underscore the need for integrated approaches combining maternal diet optimization, molecular breeding, and precision livestock management to enhance muscle growth, meat quality, and production sustainability in ruminant systems. Full article
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31 pages, 3963 KiB  
Review
Neuroglobin and Cytoglobin in Mammalian Nervous Systems: About Distribution, Regulation, Function, and Some Open Questions
by Stefan Reuss
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(8), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15080784 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 449
Abstract
Globins are a class of globular proteins that function in the transportation or storage of oxygen. They are critical for cellular metabolism. Notable examples include hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells, and myoglobin, which is present in muscle cells. Approximately two [...] Read more.
Globins are a class of globular proteins that function in the transportation or storage of oxygen. They are critical for cellular metabolism. Notable examples include hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells, and myoglobin, which is present in muscle cells. Approximately two decades ago, a third globin, designated as neuroglobin, was identified, expressed predominantly in neuronal cells. This was followed two years later by the fourth, cytoglobin, found in cells of the fibroblast lineage, as well as in neuronal cell populations of the central and nervous systems. Both neuroglobin and cytoglobin have been found in the sensory and endocrine systems, albeit inconsistently, and it is thought that they are engaged in functions such as oxygen transport and storage, scavenging of free radicals, NO metabolism, peroxidase activity, and signaling functions. Neuroglobin is also expressed in astrocytes under challenging conditions. Common neuroscience methods were utilized to study the distribution and regulation of globin tissues and of single brain cells. Despite considerable overlap in the findings of various studies, some results deviate significantly from other studies. The potential causes of these discrepancies may include variations in detection methods, animal age and sex, time of day and year, and differing cell culture conditions. This review will explore factors that may influence functional aspects of globins and their detection in the mammalian brain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neuropharmacology and Neuropathology)
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16 pages, 4186 KiB  
Article
Physiological and Oxidative Stress in General and Spinal Anesthesia for Elective Cesarean Section in Women: Is There Any Difference?
by Nemanja D. Dimic, Gorica D. Maric, Zorana S. Orescanin Dusic, Tanja M. Grahovac, Teodora F. Vidonja Uzelac, Marko D. Djuric, Irina B. Nenadic, Marina M. Bobos, Predrag D. Stevanovic, Sladjana J. Mihajlovic and Marina M. Stojanovic
Life 2025, 15(8), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081158 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 280
Abstract
This study evaluates the influence of general anesthesia (GA) and spinal anesthesia (SA) on physiological and oxidative stress in parturients undergoing elective cesarean section, one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide. A total of 101 pregnant women were included, categorized into [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the influence of general anesthesia (GA) and spinal anesthesia (SA) on physiological and oxidative stress in parturients undergoing elective cesarean section, one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide. A total of 101 pregnant women were included, categorized into GA (n = 51) and SA (n = 50) groups. Blood samples were collected at three time points: one hour before surgery (Measurement 1), at umbilical cord clamping (Measurement 2), and two hours post-surgery (Measurement 3). Biomarkers of oxidative stress, complete blood count, and levels of biochemical parameters were measured. In second and/or third measurement, biochemical blood analysis showed increased prolactin and cortisol levels, followed by spike of glucose and insulin in the GA group. However, levels of tri-iodothyronine were reduced in both groups in the third measurement. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity was increased in both groups in third measurement. The results showed increased concentrations of total SH groups and decreased concentrations of non-protein SH groups in the GA group during Measurement 2. Lymphocyte count was found to be predictor of GST levels. The results indicate more a pronounced endocrine response in GA group and speak in favor of spinal anesthesia. Both kinds of anesthesia are equally safe in terms of the oxidative status of the tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
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27 pages, 1506 KiB  
Review
Parathyroid Hormone as a Modulator of Skeletal Muscle: Insights into Bone–Muscle and Nerve–Muscle Interactions
by Vinh-Lac Nguyen, Kwang-Bok Lee and Young Jae Moon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7060; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157060 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 474
Abstract
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been studied to determine its broader role in musculoskeletal health, particularly its effects on skeletal muscle. Bone and muscle are inextricably linked via mechanical loading and biochemical signaling, with both processes playing important roles in muscular metabolism and function. [...] Read more.
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been studied to determine its broader role in musculoskeletal health, particularly its effects on skeletal muscle. Bone and muscle are inextricably linked via mechanical loading and biochemical signaling, with both processes playing important roles in muscular metabolism and function. Furthermore, the nervous system must maintain muscle mass and function, as neuromuscular transmission controls muscle contraction, protein synthesis, and energy metabolism. As a systemic endocrine regulator, PTH influences the physiology of skeletal muscle—both directly and through interactions with bone and the nervous system, modulating myokines, osteokines, and neuromuscular activity. The intricate relationships between PTH, muscle, bone, and nerves continue to be investigated due to their implications for aging, metabolic pathologies, and musculoskeletal disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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