Search Results (316)

Telomeres are protective DNA sequences located at chromosome ends, essential to maintaining genomic stability. This narrative review examines how maternal lifestyle factors during pregnancy influence fetal telomere length (TL). Positive associations have been identified between offspring’s TL and maternal consumption of nutrients such as vitamins C and D, folate, and magnesium. Additionally, adherence to a Mediterranean diet and regular physical activity during pregnancy are correlated with increased placental TL, supporting fetal genomic integrity. Conversely, maternal dietary patterns high in carbohydrates, fats, or alcohol, as well as exposure to triclosan and sleep-disordered breathing, negatively correlate with offspring’s TL. Maternal infections may also shorten TL through heightened inflammation and oxidative stress. However, evidence regarding the impact of other lifestyle factors—including maternal stress, smoking, caffeine intake, polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption, obesity, and sleep quality—remains inconsistent. Given that shorter telomere length has been associated with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as certain types of cancer, these findings highlight the vital importance of maternal health during pregnancy in order to prevent potential adverse effects on the fetus. Further studies are required to elucidate the precise timing, intensity, and interplay of these influences, enabling targeted prenatal interventions to enhance offspring health outcomes. Full article

Background: Fixed-dose combinations have advanced in many therapeutic areas, including otorhinolaryngology, where hearing disorders are increasingly prevalent. Objectives: The present study focuses on developing and evaluating a new capsule combining nicergoline (NIC), piracetam (PIR), and hawthorn extract (HE) for the management of sensorineural hearing loss. Methods: The first phase methodology comprised preformulation studies (DSC, FTIR, and PXRD) to assess compatibility among active substances and excipients. Subsequently, four formulations were prepared and tested for flowability, dissolution behavior in acidic and neutral media, and stability under oxidative, thermal, and photolytic stress. Quantification of the active substances and flavonoids was performed using validated spectrophotometric and HPLC-UV methods. Results: Among the tested variants, the F1 formulation (4.5 mg NIC, 200 mg PIR, 50 mg HE, 2.5 mg magnesium stearate, 2.5 mg sodium starch glycolate, and 240.5 mg monohydrate lactose per capsule) displayed optimal technological properties, superior dissolution in acidic media, and was further selected for evaluation. The antioxidant activity of the formulation was confirmed through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), and iron chelation tests, and was primarily attributed to the flavonoid content of the HE. Acute toxicity tests in mice and rats indicated a high safety margin (LD₅₀ > 2500 mg/kg), while ototoxicity assessments showed no adverse effects on auditory function. Conclusions: The developed formulation displayed good stability, safety, and therapeutic potential, while the applied workflow could represent a model for the development of future fixed-dose combinations. Full article

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a multifactorial clinical condition characterized by the bidirectional deterioration of cardiac and renal function, driven by mechanisms such as renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) overactivation, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and fibrosis. The aim of this narrative review is to explore the key molecular pathways involved in CRS and to highlight emerging therapeutic approaches, with a special emphasis on nutritional interventions. We examined recent evidence on the contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction, uremic toxins, and immune activation to CRS progression and assessed the role of dietary and micronutrient factors. Results indicate that a high dietary intake of sodium, phosphorus additives, and processed foods is associated with volume overload, vascular damage, and inflammation, whereas deficiencies in potassium, magnesium, and vitamin D correlate with worse clinical outcomes. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactives, such as omega-3 PUFAs, curcumin, and anthocyanins from maqui, demonstrate potential to modulate key CRS mechanisms, including the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway and the NLRP3 inflammasome. Gene therapy approaches targeting endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling are also discussed. An integrative approach combining pharmacological RAAS modulation with personalized medical nutrition therapy and anti-inflammatory nutrients may offer a promising strategy to prevent or delay CRS progression and improve patient outcomes. Full article

Background: Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), microbial metabolites also known as postbiotics, are essential for maintaining gut health. However, their antiproliferative effects on gastric cancer cells and potential interactions with conventional therapies remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of three SCFA salts—magnesium acetate (A), sodium propionate (P), and sodium butyrate (B)—individually and in combination (APB), as well as in combination with dexamethasone (Dex), on AGS gastric adenocarcinoma cells. Methods: AGS cells were treated with PB, AP, AB, APB, Dex, and APB+Dex. Cell viability was assessed to determine antiproliferative effects, and the IC₅₀ of APB was calculated. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis and necrosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured to assess oxidative stress. Proteomic analysis via LC-MS was performed to identify differential protein expression and related pathways impacted by the treatments. Results: SCFA salts showed significant antiproliferative effects on AGS cells, with APB exhibiting a combined IC₅₀ of 568.33 μg/mL. The APB+Dex combination demonstrated strong synergy (combination index = 0.76) and significantly enhanced growth inhibition. Both APB and APB+Dex induced substantial apoptosis (p < 0.0001) with minimal necrosis. APB alone significantly increased ROS levels (p < 0.0001), while Dex moderated this effect in the combination group APB+Dex (p < 0.0001). Notably, the APB+Dex treatment synergistically targeted multiple tumour-promoting mechanisms, including the impairment of redox homeostasis through SLC7A11 suppression, and inhibition of the haemostasis, platelet activation network and NF-κB signalling pathway via downregulation of NFKB1 (−1.34), exemplified by increased expression of SERPINE1 (1.99) within the “Response to elevated platelet cytosolic Ca²⁺” pathway. Conclusions: These findings showed a multifaceted anticancer mechanism by APB+Dex that may collectively impair cell proliferation, survival signalling, immune modulation, and tumour microenvironment support in gastric cancer. Full article

Magenta Cherry or Eugenia (Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn) is an underutilized berry species with an interesting source of functional components. This study aimed to evaluate these berries’ morphometric, nutritional, and phytochemical characteristics at two ripening stages, CM: consumer maturity (CM) and OM: over-maturity. Morphometric analysis revealed size and weight parameters comparable to commercial berries such as blueberries. Fresh fruits were processed into pulverized material, and in this, a proximate analysis was evaluated, showing high moisture content (88.9%), dietary fiber (3.56%), and protein (0.63%), with negligible fat, indicating suitability for low-calorie diets. Phytochemical screening by HPLC identified gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, rutin, and condensed tannins. Ethanol extracts showed stronger bioactive profiles than aqueous extracts, with significant antioxidant capacity (up to 803.40 µmol _Trolox/g via Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP assay). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopic analyses established structural transformations of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic groups associated with ripening. These changes were supported by observed variations in anthocyanin and flavonoid contents, both higher at the CM stage. A notable pigment loss in OM fruits could be attributed to pH changes, oxidative degradation, enzymatic activity loss, and biotic stressors. Antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) confirmed higher radical scavenging activity in CM-stage berries. Elemental analysis identified minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, although in moderate concentrations. In summary, Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn fruit demonstrates considerable potential as a source of natural antioxidants and bioactive compounds. These findings advocate for greater exploration and sustainable use of this native berry species in functional food systems. Full article

This work presents the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of physicochemical and biological properties of two new aminoporphyrazine derivatives bearing magnesium(II) cations in their cores and peripheral pyrrolyl groups. The synthesis was carried out in several stages, using classical methods and the Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis (MAOS) approach. The obtained compounds were characterized using spectral techniques: UV-Vis spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. The porphyrazine derivatives were tested for their electrochemical properties (CV and DPV), which revealed four redox processes, of which in compound 7 positive shifts of oxidation potentials were observed, resulting from the presence of free phenolic hydroxyl groups. In spectroelectrochemical measurements, changes in UV-Vis spectra associated with the formation of positive-charged states were noted. Photophysical studies revealed the presence of characteristic absorption Q and Soret bands, low fluorescence quantum yields and small Stokes shifts. The efficiency of singlet oxygen generation (Φ_Δ) was higher for compound 6 (up to 0.06), but compound 7, despite its lower efficiency (0.02), was distinguished by a better biological activity profile. Toxicity tests using the Aliivibrio fischeri bacteria indicated the lower toxicity of 7 compared to 6. The most promising result was the strong photodynamic activity of porphyrazine 7 against the Methicillin-resistant Stapylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain, leading to a more-than-5.6-log decrease in viable counts after the colony forming units (CFU) after light irradiation. Compound 6 did not show any significant antibacterial activity. The obtained data indicate that porphyrazine 7 is a promising candidate for applications in photodynamic therapy of bacterial infections. Full article

The treatment of contaminants from road infrastructure poses significant challenges due to their variable composition and the high concentrations of chloride ions, heavy metals, and oil-derived substances. Traditional methods for protecting groundwater environments are often insufficient. A promising alternative is permeable reactive barrier (PRB) technology, which utilizes recycled materials and construction waste as reactive components within the treatment zone of the ground. This paper delves into the potential of employing a composite (MIX) consisting of modified construction aggregate (as recycled material) and activated carbon (example of reactive material) to address environmental contamination from a mixture of heavy metals and chloride. The research involved chemical modifications of the road aggregate, activated carbon, and their composite, followed by laboratory tests in glass reactors and non-flow batch tests to evaluate the kinetics and chemical equilibrium of the reactions. The adsorption process was stable and conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir, Toth, and Redlich–Peterson isotherm models. Studies using MIX from a heavy metal model solution showed that monolayer adsorption was a key mechanism for removing heavy metals, with strong fits to the Langmuir (R² > 0.80) and Freundlich models, and optimal efficiencies for Cd and Ni (R² > 0.90). The best fit, at Cd, Cu, Ni = 0.96, however, was with the Redlich–Peterson isotherm, indicating a mix of physical and chemical adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces. The Toth model was significant for all analytes, fitting Cl and Cd well and Pb and Zn moderately. The modifications made to the composite significantly enhanced its effectiveness in removing the contaminant mixture. The test results demonstrated an average reduction of chloride by 85%, along with substantial removals of heavy metals: lead (Pb) by 90%, cadmium (Cd) by 86%, nickel (Ni) by 85%, copper (Cu) by 81%, and zinc (Zn) by 79%. Further research should focus on the removal of other contaminants and the optimization of magnesium oxide (MgO) dosage. Full article

Osmotic dehydration is a process involving a two-way mass transfer, during which water and substances dissolved in it are removed from the product and, at the same time, substances dissolved in a hypertonic solution penetrate into the tissues. This process has a significant effect on, among other things, the nutritional and sensory parameters, as well as the texture and shelf life of the dehydrated product. This study analyzed the effect of osmotic dehydration of beet on magnesium content following the addition of various chemical forms of magnesium (magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate, magnesium chloride) to a hypertonic solution. Magnesium was added in concentrations of 2.5 or 5.0% relative to the mass of the solution. The following compounds were used to prepare hypertonic solutions (25 and 50%): inulin, xylitol, erythritol, and sucrose. The control sample was water. A significant increase in magnesium content in the dehydrated material was confirmed. This effect was determined by many factors, among which the most important were the chemical form of magnesium, the type of osmotically active substance, magnesium concentration, and process time. The highest magnesium content was found in samples dehydrated in a 50% inulin solution with a 5.0% addition of magnesium chloride under the following conditions: 120 min/30 °C. It was also demonstrated that osmotically dehydrated samples exhibited approximately 3–5 times lower antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS, and ORAC tests. Full article

Soil erosion-prone areas require effective microbial treatments to improve soil bacterial communities and functional traits. Understanding the driving effects of different microbial interventions on soil ecology is essential for restoration efforts. Single and combined microbial treatments were applied to soil. Bacterial community structure was analyzed via 16S IRNA high-throughput sequencing, and functional groups were predicted using FAPROTAX. Soil microbial carbon, nitrogen, metabolic entropy, and enzymatic activity were assessed. Microbial Carbon and Metabolic Activity: The Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Bacillus mucilaginosus (BM) (AMF.BM) treatment exhibited the highest microbial carbon content and the lowest metabolic entropy. The microbial carbon-to-nitrogen ratio ranged from 1.27 to 3.69 across all treatments. Bacterial Community Composition: The dominant bacterial phyla included Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria. Diversity and Richness: The AMF and Trichoderma harzianum (TH) (AMF.TH) treatment significantly reduced diversity, richness, and phylogenetic diversity indices, while the AMF.BM treatment showed a significantly higher richness index (p < 0.05). Relative Abundance of Firmicutes: Compared to the control, the AMF, TH.BM, and TH treatments decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes, whereas the AMF.TH treatment increased their relative abundance. Environmental Correlations: Redundancy and correlation analyses revealed significant correlations between soil organic matter, magnesium content, and sucrase activity and several major bacterial genera. Functional Prediction: The AMF.BM treatment enhanced the relative abundance and evenness of bacterial ecological functions, primarily driving nitrification, aerobic ammonia oxidation, and ureolysis. Microbial treatments differentially influence soil bacterial communities and functions. The AMF.BM combination shows the greatest potential for ecological restoration in erosion-prone soils. Full article

Depression affects approximately 280 million people worldwide and is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly among young people. Despite numerous studies on the pathogenesis of this disorder, many factors remain unclear. New data in the literature suggest that proper concentrations of essential macro- and micronutrients play an important role in maintaining mental health and that disturbances in the metabolism of mineral compounds may contribute to the development and progression of depressive disorders. Numerous clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that low concentrations of these elements are associated with impaired neurotransmitter activity, increased exposure to oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, all of which may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of depression. Additionally, some macro- and micronutrients may contribute to metabolic and hormonal disorders, thereby exacerbating their impact on mood regulation. A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed database covering the period from 2020 to 2025 yielded relevant human studies on calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine in relation to depression, which were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This review summarizes the effects of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine on supporting prevention, slowing progression, and helping treatment of depression. Understanding the impact of proper nutrition, including ensuring optimal concentrations of minerals, can help develop dietary strategies or proper supplementation of macronutrients and micronutrients aimed at preventing and improving the functioning of patients with depression. Full article

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions, with particular relevance to maintaining neural homeostasis, modulating neurotransmitter systems, and regulating inflammatory and oxidative stress mechanisms. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the potential role of magnesium in the pathophysiology and treatment of three prevalent neurological and psychiatric disorders—depression, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease—as well as its broader implications for cognitive health. Current research suggests that magnesium deficiency is associated with the development of depression, as magnesium influences glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission, as well as the activity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, both of which play critical roles in stress responses and mood regulation. Additionally, magnesium’s anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to the alleviation of depressive symptoms. In the context of migraine’s pathophysiology, magnesium plays a role in regulating cerebral vascular tone, modulating the trigeminovascular system, and reducing neuronal hyperexcitability, which may explain the observed correlation between magnesium levels and the incidence of migraines. Regarding Alzheimer’s disease, preclinical and epidemiological studies suggest that magnesium may contribute to modulating neurodegenerative processes and preserving cognitive function; however, due to the heterogeneity of the current findings, further longitudinal and interventional studies are necessary to determine its precise clinical relevance. This review aims to enhance the understanding of the relationship between magnesium and these disorders through a narrative review of relevant clinical studies. The findings may provide insights into the potential therapeutic applications of magnesium and guide the future directions of the research into the prevention and treatment of depression, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease and overall cognitive health. Full article

Chronic pain affects approximately 20% of the global adult population, posing significant healthcare and economic challenges. Effective management requires addressing both biological and psychosocial factors, with emerging therapies such as antioxidants and marine algae offering promising new treatment avenues. Marine algae synthesize bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, carotenoids, and sulfated polysaccharides, which modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuroimmune signaling pathways implicated in pain. Both preclinical and clinical studies support their potential application in treating inflammatory, neuropathic, muscular, and chronic pain conditions. Notable constituents include polyphenols, carotenoids (such as fucoxanthin), vitamins, minerals, and sulfated polysaccharides. These compounds modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, particularly by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downregulating cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Brown and red algae produce phlorotannins and fucoidans that alleviate pain and inflammation in preclinical models. Carotenoids like fucoxanthin demonstrate neuroprotective effects by influencing autophagy and inflammatory gene expression. Algal-derived vitamins (C and E) and minerals (magnesium, selenium, and zinc) contribute to immune regulation and pain modulation. Additionally, sulfated polysaccharides suppress microglial activation in the central nervous system (CNS). Marine algae represent a promising natural source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in pain management. Although current evidence, primarily derived from preclinical studies, indicates beneficial effects in various pain models, further research is necessary to confirm their efficacy, safety, and mechanisms in human populations. These findings advocate for the continued exploration of marine algae as complementary agents in future therapeutic strategies. Full article

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are increasingly used in agriculture to stimulate plant growth and development, including under in vitro culture conditions. However, there is limited data on the effects of ZnONPs on the micropropagation of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. The pharmacological properties of this species make it a valuable medicinal plant. In Poland, it does not occur naturally but is cultivated for the production of herbal material. In vitro micropropagation is an effective method for obtaining genetically uniform plantlets. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of various concentrations of ZnONPs on growth parameters and the content of mineral nutrients, phenolic compounds, antioxidants, and photosynthetic pigments in Scutellaria baicalensis cultured in vitro. Shoot tip explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg dm⁻³ BA and 0.1 mg dm⁻³ IBA, together with ZnONPs at concentrations of 0 (control), 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg dm⁻³. The results showed that ZnONPs at concentrations of 10–20 mg dm⁻³ had no statistically significant effect on shoot or root development or on fresh weight gain. However, higher concentrations (30 and 40 mg dm⁻³) had a significantly negative impact on the number and length of shoots and roots, as well as on biomass accumulation. ZnONPs at 10–20 mg dm⁻³ significantly increased the content of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc in regenerated multi-shoot plantlets. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.951) was observed between ZnONP concentration and zinc accumulation in the plantlets. The levels of manganese and copper were not significantly different from the control. Plantlets treated with 30–40 mg dm⁻³ ZnONPs had significantly lower levels of calcium, iron, manganese, and copper. Those grown at 30 mg dm⁻³ had the highest potassium and magnesium levels, while plantlets exposed to 40 mg dm⁻³ had the highest zinc content. The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (measured using ABTS and DPPH assays) were significantly higher in ZnONP-treated plantlets compared to the control. In contrast, the levels of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll (a + b), and carotenoids were significantly lower in plants treated with ZnONPs. A strong negative correlation was found between ZnONP concentration and photosynthetic pigment content, while the ZnONP concentration was positively correlated with total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (ABTS⁺ and DPPH). Full article

The selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO_x emissions by hydrocarbons (HCs) using a silver (Ag)-based catalyst offers significant advantages over conventional SCR systems that rely on ammonia reductants and vanadium-based catalysts. However, the conversion rate of SCR is influenced by several factors, among which catalyst poisoning is a major concern. Toxic metals such as sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca) can degrade catalyst activity and lead to deactivation. Poisoned catalysts suffer from reduced conversion rates and premature deactivation before reaching their intended operational lifespan. In particular, calcium poisoning results in the formation of CaO (calcium oxide), which reacts to produce a CaWO₄ compound that severely impairs SCR performance. This study investigates the role of antimony (Sb) in mitigating Ca-induced deactivation in HC-SCR of NO_x. Five catalysts with varying Sb loadings were prepared and tested to evaluate Sb’s effect on NO_x conversion rate at a space velocity of 30,000 h⁻¹. The results demonstrate that Sb effectively suppresses Ca deactivation, enhancing the conversion rate across all engine test conditions. The highest NO_x conversion rate (95.88%) was achieved using a catalyst with 3% Sb. Full article

The present study systematically investigated the cesium (Cs) enrichment characteristics and physiological responses to Cs exposure in radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seedlings under hydroponic conditions through integrated physiological, biochemical, and transcriptome analyses. The results showed that the Cs content in radish roots, stems, and cotyledons increased progressively with rising Cs concentrations (0.25–2 mM), and Cs mainly accumulated in the cotyledon. The transfer factor (TF) increased by 63.29% (TF = 3.87) as the Cs concentration increased from 0.25 to 2 mM, while the biological concentration factor (BCF) decreased by 72.56% (BCF = 14.87). Severe growth inhibition was observed at 2 mM Cs stress, with biomass reduction reaching 29.73%. The carotenoid content decreased by 11.92%; however, the total chlorophyll content did not change significantly, and the photosynthesis of radish was not affected. In addition, Cs exposure disrupted mineral nutrient homeostasis, decreasing potassium (K), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) content. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased under the different Cs treatments, which indicated that Cs exposure induced oxidative stress response in radish seedlings. Transcriptome analysis detected a total of 4326 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), in which altered expression patterns in genes associated with mineral transport, antioxidant systems, and carotenoid biosynthesis pathways in radish under 2 mM Cs treatment were observed. In conclusion, this study comprehensively investigated the physiological and molecular responses of radish to Cs stress, revealing that Cs accumulation exhibited site-specific preference and concentration dependence and induced physiological disturbances, including growth inhibition and photosynthetic pigment metabolism alterations. At the transcription level, Cs activated the enzymatic antioxidant system, related genes, and stress-response pathways. Notably, this study is the first to demonstrate that Cs disrupts plant mineral nutrition homeostasis and inhibits carotenoid biosynthesis. These findings establish a crucial theoretical foundation for utilizing radish in Cs-contaminated phytoremediation strategies. Full article