Saved Queries

Alexandrium spp. blooms and paralytic shellfish poisoning pose serious economic threats to coastal communities and aquaculture. This study evaluated the removal efficiency of two Alexandrium minutum strains using natural kaolinite clay (KNAC) and kaolinite with polyaluminum chloride (KPAC) at three concentrations (0.1, 0.25, and 0.3 g L⁻¹), two pH levels (7 and 8), and two cell densities (1.0 and 2.0 × 10⁷ cells L⁻¹) in seawater. PAC significantly enhanced removal, achieving up to 100% efficiency within two hours. Zeta potential analysis showed that PAC imparted positive surface charges to the clay, promoting electrostatic interactions with negatively charged algal cells and enhancing flocculation through Van der Waals attractions. In addition, the study conducted a cost estimate analysis and found that treating one hectare at 0.1 g L⁻¹ would cost approximately USD 31.75. The low KPAC application rate also suggests minimal environmental impact on benthic habitats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmful Algal Blooms in Waters: Characterization, Monitoring and Management)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1628 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Regulation of Oncogenic Pathways in Breast and Gynaecological Cancers

by Ammar Ansari, Aleksandra Szczesnowska, Natalia Haddad, Ahmed Elbediwy and Nadine Wehida

Non-Coding RNA 2025, 11(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna11040061 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Female cancers such as breast and gynaecological cancers contribute to a significant global health burden and are a leading cause of fatality among women. With current treatment options often limited by resistance to cytotoxic drugs, side effects and lack of specificity to the cancer, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments. Recent research has highlighted the promising role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) in regulating these issues and providing more targeted approaches to suppressing key cancer pathways. This review explores the involvement of the various types of non-coding RNAs in regulating key oncogenic pathways, namely, the MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Wnt/β-catenin and p53 pathways, in a range of female cancers such as breast, cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancers. Evidence from a multitude of studies suggests that non-coding RNAs function as double-edged swords, serving as both oncogenes and tumour suppressors, depending on their expression and cellular interactions. By mapping and investigating these regulatory interactions, this review demonstrates the complexity and dual functionality of ncRNAs in cancer. Understanding these complex mechanisms is essential for the development of new and effective ncRNA-based diagnostic methods and targeted therapies in female cancer treatment. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Storage Time and Reheating Method on the Quality of a Precooked Lamb-Based Dish

by Zhihao Yang, Chenlei Wang, Ye Jin, Wenjia Le, Liang Zhang, Lifei Wang, Bo Zhang, Yueying Guo, Min Zhang and Lin Su

Foods 2025, 14(15), 2748; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152748 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Ready-to-eat meat products face quality challenges during storage and reheating. This study aimed to (i) characterize the physicochemical/microbiological changes in stewed mutton during storage (4 °C/−18 °C, 0–28 days) and (ii) evaluate reheating methods (boiling vs. microwaving) on day-7 samples. The nutritional analysis confirmed moisture reduction (57.32 vs. 72.12 g/100 g)-concentrated protein/fat levels. Storage at −18 °C suppressed microbial growth (the total plate count (TPC), 3.73 vs. 4.80 log CFU/g at 28 days; p < 0.05) and lipid oxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS): 0.14 vs. 0.19 mg/kg) more effectively than storage at 4 °C. The total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) kinetics projected a shelf life ≥90 days (4 °C) and ≥120 days (−18 °C). Microwave reheating after frozen storage (−18 °C) maximized the yield (86.21% vs. 75.90% boiling; p < 0.05) and preserved volatile profiles closest to those in the fresh samples (gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS)/electronic nose). The combination of freezing storage and subsequent microwave reheating has been demonstrated to be an effective method for preserving the quality of a precooked lamb dish, thereby ensuring its nutritional value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on the Effects of Novel Processing Technologies on Meat Flavor and Quality Characteristics)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot for Cochlear Implant Side Selection: A Preliminary Study

by Daniele Portelli, Sabrina Loteta, Mariangela D’Angelo, Cosimo Galletti, Leonard Freni, Rocco Bruno, Francesco Ciodaro, Angela Alibrandi and Giuseppe Alberti

Audiol. Res. 2025, 15(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres15040100 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being applied in otolaryngology, including cochlear implants (CIs). This study evaluates the accuracy and completeness of ChatGPT-4 and Microsoft Copilot in determining the appropriate implantation side based on audiological and radiological data, as well as the presence of tinnitus. Methods: Data from 22 CI patients (11 males, 11 females; 12 right-sided, 10 left-sided implants) were used to query both AI models. Each patient’s audiometric thresholds, hearing aid benefit, tinnitus presence, and radiological findings were provided. The AI-generated responses were compared to the clinician-chosen sides. Accuracy and completeness were scored by two independent reviewers. Results: ChatGPT had a 50% concordance rate for right-side implantation and a 70% concordance rate for left-side implantation, while Microsoft Copilot achieved 75% and 90%, respectively. Chi-square tests showed significant associations between AI-suggested and clinician-chosen sides for both AI (p < 0.05). ChatGPT outperformed Microsoft Copilot in identifying radiological alterations (60% vs. 40%) and tinnitus presence (77.8% vs. 66.7%). Cronbach’s alpha was >0.70 only for ChatGPT accuracy, indicating better agreement between reviewers. Conclusions: Both AI models showed significant alignment with clinician decisions. Microsoft Copilot was more accurate in implantation side selection, while ChatGPT better recognized radiological alterations and tinnitus. These results highlight AI’s potential as a clinical decision support tool in CI candidacy, although further research is needed to refine its application in complex cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies in Audiology: Advancing Assessment, Intervention, and Accessibility)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1211 KiB

Open AccessReview

Phosphorus in Salmonid Aquaculture: Sources, Requirements, and System-Level Implications

by Vegard Øvstetun Flo, Torbjørn Åsgård and Odd-Ivar Lekang

Fishes 2025, 10(8), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080388 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of phosphorus (P) dynamics relevant to salmonid aquaculture, with a particular focus on Atlantic salmon. It explores the global P cycle, the chemical forms of P in aquatic systems, and the implications of P sourcing, processing, and availability in aquafeeds. The review distinguishes between digestibility and availability of P, summarizes requirement studies, and evaluates the contribution of marine, animal, vegetable, and inorganic sources to dietary P. It also examines how aquaculture system design, particularly recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs), influences P accumulation and emissions. By integrating nutritional, physiological, and environmental perspectives, this review offers a uniquely holistic view of P efficiency and sustainability in salmonid aquaculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Aquaculture)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 713 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pulse Steroid Therapy for Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

by Yasumasa Kawano, Junichi Maruyama, Mitsuaki Nishikimi, Hisatomi Arima, Yuhei Irie, Shinichi Morimoto, Kentaro Muranishi, Maiko Nakashio and Yoshihiko Nakamura

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5547; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155547 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Low-dose corticosteroids have gained popularity in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, the efficacy of high-dose corticosteroids as pulse steroid therapy remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pulse steroid therapy in patients with severe ARDS requiring venovenous (V-V) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), where enhanced anti-inflammatory effects may be beneficial. Methods: Using data from the J-CARVE registry, which included patients with severe ARDS managed with V-V ECMO across 24 Japanese hospitals between January 2012 and December 2022, we identified 373 patients treated with corticosteroids. The patients were divided into two groups: pulse steroid therapy and non-pulse steroid therapy. Propensity score matching was performed, and all-cause hospital mortality and ECMO-free days within 28 days were compared between groups. Pulse steroid therapy was defined as methylprednisolone at a dose of 1000 mg/day. Results: After matching, 48 patients were included in each group. The all-cause hospital mortality rates were 41.7% (20/48) in the pulse steroid group and 47.9% (23/48) in the non-pulse steroid group, with no significant difference (odds ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval: 0.53–3.12, p = 0.68). The median ECMO-free days were 9.5 (interquartile range [IQR]: 0–17.3) in the pulse steroid group and 3 (IQR: 0–17) in the non-pulse steroid group, showing no significant difference (p = 0.69). Conclusions: Pulse steroid therapy did not improve all-cause hospital mortality or ECMO-free days in patients with severe ARDS who required V-V ECMO. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Emergency Medicine)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revisiting Cytoreductive Nephrectomy in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Real-World Evidence of Survival Benefit with First-Line Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy Regimens

by Sri Saran Manivasagam, Alireza Aminsharifi and Jay D. Raman

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5543; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155543 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common malignancy with a rising global incidence. While cytoreductive nephrectomy (CRN) was historically a cornerstone in the management of metastatic RCC (mRCC), its role has been questioned following pivotal trials such as CARMENA and SURTIME. With the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted therapies, the contemporary relevance of CRN coupled with first-line immunotherapy and targeted therapy combination regimens warrants re-evaluation. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized the TriNetX research network to identify patients aged 18–90 years diagnosed with mRCC between 2005 and 2024 who received first-line systemic therapies. Patients were stratified into two cohorts based on receipt of CRN status within one year of diagnosis. Propensity score matching (1:1) was done to adjust baseline characteristics. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling were used to compare five-year overall survival between the groups. Results: Among 5960 eligible patients, 1776 (888 CRN matched to 888 who did not) formed the cohort of analysis. The CRN group demonstrated significantly higher five-year survival (57.7% vs. 45.0%, p < 0.0001) with a hazard ratio of 1.56 (95% CI: 1.33–1.83). Subgroup analyses showed consistent survival benefits across all four NCCN-recommended first-line regimens—Axitinib + Pembrolizumab: 64.0% (CRN) vs. 53.3% (no CRN), p = 0.01; Cabozantinib + Nivolumab: 50.1% vs. 40.4%, p = 0.004; Lenvatinib + Pembrolizumab: 37.4% vs. 22.8%, p = 0.012; Nivolumab + Ipilimumab: 56.4% vs. 46.1%, p = 0.005. Conclusions: In the era of modern immunotherapy and targeted agents, CRN remains associated with improved survival in patients with mRCC receiving NCCN-recommended first-line regimens. These findings support the continued evaluation of CRN as a component of multimodal therapy, particularly in patients with favorable risk profiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology & Urology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 4458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Crevice Structure on Corrosion Behavior of P110 Carbon Steel in a Carbonated Simulated Concrete Environment

by Fanghai Ling, Chen Li, Hailin Guo and Yong Xiang

Coatings 2025, 15(8), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080919 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study systematically investigated the corrosion behavior of P110 pipeline steel in simulated carbonated concrete environments through a combination of electrochemical testing and multiphysics simulation, with particular focus on revealing the evolution mechanisms of corrosion product deposition and ion concentration distribution under half crevice structures, providing new insights into localized corrosion in concealed areas. Experimental results showed that no significant corrosion occurred on the P110 steel surface in uncarbonated simulated pore solution. Conversely, the half crevice structure significantly promoted the development of localized corrosion in carbonated simulated pore solution, with the most severe corrosion and substantial accumulation of corrosion products observed at the crevice mouth region. COMSOL Multiphysics simulations demonstrated that this phenomenon was primarily attributed to local enrichment of Cl⁻ and H⁺ ions, leading to peak corrosion current density, and directional migration of Fe²⁺ ions toward the crevice mouth, causing preferential deposition of corrosion products at this location. This “electrochemical acceleration-corrosion product deposition” multiphysics coupling analysis of corrosion product deposition patterns within crevices represents a new perspective not captured by traditional crevice corrosion models. The established ion migration-corrosion product deposition model provides new theoretical foundations for understanding crevice corrosion mechanisms and predicting the service life of buried concrete pipelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion, Wear and Erosion)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 1185 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PredictMed-CDSS: Artificial Intelligence-Based Decision Support System Predicting the Probability to Develop Neuromuscular Hip Dysplasia

by Carlo M. Bertoncelli, Federico Solla, Michal Latalski, Sikha Bagui, Subhash C. Bagui, Stefania Costantini and Domenico Bertoncelli

Bioengineering 2025, 12(8), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12080846 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Neuromuscular hip dysplasia (NHD) is a common deformity in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Although some predictive factors of NHD are known, the prediction of NHD is in its infancy. We present a Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) designed to calculate the probability of developing NHD in children with CP. The system utilizes an ensemble of three machine learning (ML) algorithms: Neural Network (NN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Logistic Regression (LR). The development and evaluation of the CDSS followed the DECIDE-AI guidelines for AI-driven clinical decision support tools. The ensemble was trained on a data series from 182 subjects. Inclusion criteria were age between 12 and 18 years and diagnosis of CP from two specialized units. Clinical and functional data were collected prospectively between 2005 and 2023, and then analyzed in a cross-sectional study. Accuracy and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) were calculated for each method. Best logistic regression scores highlighted history of previous orthopedic surgery (p = 0.001), poor motor function (p = 0.004), truncal tone disorder (p = 0.008), scoliosis (p = 0.031), number of affected limbs (p = 0.05), and epilepsy (p = 0.05) as predictors of NHD. Both accuracy and AUROC were highest for NN, 83.7% and 0.92, respectively. The novelty of this study lies in the development of an efficient Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) prototype, specifically designed to predict future outcomes of neuromuscular hip dysplasia (NHD) in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) using clinical data. The proposed system, PredictMed-CDSS, demonstrated strong predictive performance for estimating the probability of NHD development in children with CP, with the highest accuracy achieved using neural networks (NN). PredictMed-CDSS has the potential to assist clinicians in anticipating the need for early interventions and preventive strategies in the management of NHD among CP patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Machine Learning and Biomedicine: Updates and Directions)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 6958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A pH-Responsive Liquid Crystal-Based Sensing Platform for the Detection of Biothiols

by Xianghao Meng, Ronghua Zhang, Xinfeng Dong, Zhongxing Wang and Li Yu

Chemosensors 2025, 13(8), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13080291 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Biothiols, including cysteine (Cys), homocysteine (Hcy), and glutathione (GSH), are crucial for physiological regulation and their imbalance poses severe health risks. Herein, we developed a pH-responsive liquid crystal (LC)-based sensing platform for detection of biothiols by doping 4-n-pentylbiphenyl-4-carboxylic acid (PBA) into 4-n-pentyl-4-cyanobiphenyl (5CB). Urease catalyzed urea hydrolysis to produce OH⁻, triggering the deprotonation of PBA, thereby inducing a vertical alignment of LC molecules at the interface corresponding to dark optical appearances. Heavy metal ions (e.g., Hg²⁺) could inhibit urease activity, under which condition LC presents bright optical images and LC molecules maintain a state of tilted arrangement. However, biothiols competitively bind to Hg²⁺, the activity of urease is maintained which enables the occurrence of urea hydrolysis. This case triggers LC molecules to align in a vertical orientation, resulting in bright optical images. This pH-driven reorientation of LCs provides a visual readout (bright-to-dark transition) correlated with biothiol concentration. The detection limits of Cys/Hcy and GSH for the PBA-doped LC platform are 0.1 μM and 0.5 μM, respectively. Overall, this study provides a simple, label-free and low-cost strategy that has a broad application prospect for the detection of biothiols. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Luminescent Sensing (Second Edition))

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of a Learning Pathway on Food and Nutrition in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

by Karla Mônica Dantas Coutinho, Humberto Rabelo, Felipe Fernandes, Karilany Dantas Coutinho, Ricardo Alexsandro de Medeiros Valentim, Aline de Pinho Dias, Janaína Luana Rodrigues da Silva Valentim, Natalia Araújo do Nascimento Batista, Manoel Honorio Romão, Priscila Sanara da Cunha, Aliete Cunha-Oliveira, Susana Henriques, Luciana Protásio de Melo, Sancha Helena de Lima Vale, Lucia Leite-Lais and Kenio Costa de Lima

Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2562; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152562 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Health education plays a vital role in training health professionals and caregivers, supporting both prevention and the promotion of self-care. In this context, technology serves as a valuable ally by enabling continuous and flexible learning. Among the various domains of health education, nutrition stands out as a key element in the management of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), helping to prevent malnutrition and enhance patient well-being. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching and learning processes within a learning pathway focused on food and nutrition in the context of ALS. Methods: This study adopted a longitudinal, quantitative design. The learning pathway, titled “Food and Nutrition in ALS,” consisted of four self-paced and self-instructional Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), offered through the Virtual Learning Environment of the Brazilian Health System (AVASUS). Participants included health professionals, caregivers, and patients from all five regions of Brazil. Participants had the autonomy to complete the courses in any order, with no prerequisites for enrollment. Results: Out of 14,263 participants enrolled nationwide, 182 were included in this study after signing the Informed Consent Form. Of these, 142 (78%) completed at least one course and participated in the educational intervention. A significant increase in knowledge was observed, with mean pre-test scores rising from 7.3 (SD = 1.8) to 9.6 (SD = 0.9) on the post-test across all courses (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The self-instructional, technology-mediated continuing education model proved effective in improving participants’ knowledge about nutrition in ALS. Future studies should explore knowledge retention, behavior change, and the impact of such interventions on clinical outcomes, especially in multidisciplinary care settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Nutrition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AMPK-Targeting Effects of (−)-Epicatechin Gallate from Hibiscus sabdariffa Linne Leaves on Dual Modulation of Hepatic Lipid Accumulation and Glycogen Synthesis in an In Vitro Oleic Acid Model

by Hui-Hsuan Lin, Pei-Tzu Wu, Yu-Hsuan Liang, Ming-Shih Lee and Jing-Hsien Chen

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7612; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157612 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) begins with hepatic lipid accumulation and triggers insulin resistance. Hibiscus leaf extract exhibits antioxidant and anti-atherosclerotic activities, and is rich in (−)-epicatechin gallate (ECG). Despite ECG’s well-known pharmacological activities and its total antioxidant capacity being stronger than that of other catechins, its regulatory effects on MASLD have not been fully described previously. Therefore, this study attempted to evaluate the anti-MASLD potential of ECG isolated from Hibiscus leaves on abnormal lipid and glucose metabolism in hepatocytes. First, oleic acid (OA) was used as an experimental model to induce lipid dysmetabolism in human primary hepatocytes. Treatment with ECG can significantly (p < 0.05) reduce the OA-induced cellular lipid accumulation. Nile red staining revealed, compared to the OA group, the inhibition percentages of 29, 61, and 82% at the tested doses of ECG, respectively. The beneficial effects of ECG were associated with the downregulation of SREBPs/HMGCR and upregulation of PPARα/CPT1 through targeting AMPK. Also, ECG at 0.4 µM produced a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in oxidative stress by 83%, and a marked (p < 0.05) increase in glycogen synthesis by 145% on the OA-exposed hepatocytes with insulin signaling blockade. Mechanistic assays indicated lipid and glucose metabolic homeostasis of ECG might be mediated via regulation of lipogenesis, fatty acid β-oxidation, and insulin resistance, as confirmed by an AMPK inhibitor. These results suggest ECG is a dual modulator of lipid and carbohydrate dysmetabolism in hepatocytes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hepatopancreatic and Intestine Diseases: From Molecular Basis to Therapy)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1897 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Type I Interferon-Enhancing Effect of Cardamom Seed Extract via Intracellular Nucleic Acid Sensor Regulation

by Abdullah Al Sufian Shuvo, Masahiro Kassai and Takeshi Kawahara

Foods 2025, 14(15), 2744; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152744 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The induction of type I interferon (IFN) via intracellular nucleic acid sensors may be useful in preventing viral infections. However, little is known about the effect of natural plant materials on sensor responses. We previously found that cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton) seed extract (CSWE) enhanced type I IFN expression and prevented influenza virus infection. In this study, we investigated the effect of CSWE on type I IFN responses using intracellular nucleic acid sensor molecules. Human lung epithelial A549 cells were treated with CSWE and transfected with poly(dA:dT) or poly(I:C) using lipofection. CSWE and 1,8-cineole, the major CSWE components, dose-dependently induced type I IFNs and IFN-stimulated genes in both poly(dA:dT)- and poly(I:C)-transfected A549 cells. The type I IFN-enhancing effect of CSWE was dependent on the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), whereas the effect of 1,8-cineole was independent of STING and mediated by the down-regulation of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-inducible poly-ADP-ribose polymerase expression. Our study suggests that CSWE has the potential to act as a beneficial antiviral agent by enhancing homeostatic type I IFN production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Food-Derived Bioactive Components: Advances in Health Benefits and Extraction Method)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Correlation of SERPINA-1 Gene Over-Expression with Inhibition of Cell Proliferation and Modulation of the Expression of IL-6, Furin, and NSD2 Genes

by Nassim Tassou, Hajar Anibat, Ahmed Tissent and Norddine Habti

Biologics 2025, 5(3), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/biologics5030022 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The cytokine IL-6, methyltransferase NSD2, pro-protein convertase Furin, and growth factor receptor IGF-1R are essential factors in the proliferation of cancer cells. These proteins are involved in the tumor process by generating several cell-signaling pathways. However, the interactions of these oncogenic biomarkers, Furin, IL-6, and NSD2, and their links with the inhibitor SERPINA-1 remain largely unknown. Materials and Methods: Cell proliferation is measured by colorimetric and enzymatic methods. The genetic expressions of SERPINA-1, Furin, IL-6, and NSD2 are measured by qRT-PCR, while the expression of IGF-1R on the cell surface is measured by flow cytometry. Results: The proliferation of cells overexpressing SERPINA-1 (JP7pSer+) is decreased by more than 90% compared to control cells (JP7pSer-). The kinetics of the gene expression ratios of Furin, IL-6, and NSD2 show an increase for 48 h, followed by a decrease after 72 h for the three biomarkers in JP7pSer+ cells compared to JP7pSer- cells. The expression of IGF-1R on the cell surface in both cell lines is low, with JP7pSer- cells expressing 1.33 times more IGF-1R than JP7pSer+ cells. Conclusions: These results suggest gene correlations of SERPINA-1 overexpression with decreased cell proliferation and modulation of gene expression of Furin, IL-6, and NSD2. This study should be complemented by molecular transcriptomic and proteomic experiments to better understand the interaction of SERPINA-1 with IL-6, Furin, and NSD2, and their effect on tumor progression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Anti-Cancer Drugs: 2nd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 22496 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Genomics and Adaptive Evolution of Bifidobacterium adolescentis in Geographically Distinct Human Gut Populations

by Pei Fu, Hao Qi and Wenjun Liu

Foods 2025, 14(15), 2747; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152747 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Bifidobacterium adolescentis is prevalent in the gastrointestinal tract of healthy humans, and significantly influences host health. Recent studies have predominantly investigated the probiotic characteristics of individual strains and their specific metabolic roles, whereas analyses at the population genome level have been limited to date. This study conducted a comparative genomics analysis of 543 B. adolescentis genomes to explore genetic background variations and functional gene differences across geographically diverse populations. The results revealed significant differences in genome size and GC content among populations from Asia, Europe, and North America (p < 0.05). The pan-gene exhibited an open structure, reflecting the substantial genetic diversity within B. adolescentis. Functional annotation demonstrated that B. adolescentis possesses numerous protein-coding genes and abundant carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZys) implicated in carbohydrate degradation and transformation. Population-specific CAZys were identified, suggesting adaptive evolution driven by distinct regional dietary patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (241,934)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI