Search Results (1,088)

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MS11, isolated from traditionally fermented yak milk in the high-altitude Gannan region of the eastern Tibetan Plateau, was investigated for its technological and functional potential in food applications. Using whole-genome sequencing combined with targeted experimental verification, this study clarified the genetic determinants and metabolic capacity associated with its production of folate, lactic acid, bacteriocin, and exopolysaccharides (EPS). The MS11 genome consists of one circular chromosome and three plasmids, totaling 3,318,231 bp with a GC content of 44.48%, and encodes 3155 predicted open reading frames. Complete biosynthetic gene clusters were identified for folate (7 genes), L-lactic acid (13 genes), bacteriocin (14 genes), and EPS (17 genes). Phenotypic assays confirmed the strain’s high metabolite productivity, including folate (0.6043 μg/mL), L-lactic acid (76.24 mg/mL), and EPS (544.2 mg/L). The cell-free fermented supernatant exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, supporting the functional relevance of its bacteriocin-associated gene cluster. To the best of our knowledge, this is the integrated genomic and experimental characterization demonstrating that a L. plantarum strain originating from a unique high-altitude fermented dairy niche can concurrently synthesize high levels of folate together with multiple beneficial metabolites. The multifunctional attributes of MS11—including nutrient fortification, acidification capacity, EPS formation, and antimicrobial activity—indicate substantial promise for its application as a composite starter culture, natural bio-preservative, and nutritionally enhanced probiotic in fermented food systems. Full article

Excessive acidity restricts the utilization of citrus pulp, a major by-product of the dried tangerine peel industry. To overcome this bottleneck, a functional microbial consortium (BsHpMrF) comprising Bacillus subtilis L4, Hanseniaspora pseudoguilliermondii B4, and Monascus ruber CGMCC 10910 was constructed for efficient biological deacidification. The consortium exhibited a synergistic effect, achieving an 88.23% reduction in total acidity and converting the acidic pulp into a neutral, bio-stabilized substrate. Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed that this efficiency was driven by the concurrent activation of the TCA cycle and glyoxylate shunt for organic acid mineralization, coupled with membrane lipid remodeling (increased unsaturation) to enhance acid tolerance. Notably, the fermentation process functioned as a “metabolic factory”, significantly enriching the matrix with bioactive lipids (e.g., 10-HDA, nervonic acid) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA, 414.28 mg/L). Application assays demonstrated that the fermentation products acted as a potent biostimulant for soybean sprouts, significantly promoting lateral roots and eliciting the accumulation of antioxidant phenolics and flavonoids. This study provides a sustainable “waste-to-treasure” strategy, valorizing acidic citrus pulp into a functional biostimulant for high-quality edible sprout production, thereby achieving a sustainable “waste-to-food” circular loop. Full article

Propolis produced by honeybees, Apis mellifera, has been valued since ancient times as a remedy for different ailments for its broad medicinal properties. This wide range of biological activities may arise from the production of distinct propolis types within the hive, each serving specific functions and containing unique molecular compositions. In this study, we investigated the effects of four propolis types—masonry, sealing, brood-protection, and intruder-neutralizing—on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative injury in human skeletal muscle cells. Among these, only brood-protection propolis significantly prevented the H₂O₂-induced loss of cell viability. Bio-guided fractionation of this active propolis identified five major compounds: benzyl caffeate (BC), caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), cinnamyl caffeate (CC), prenyl caffeate (PC), and (E)-3-methyl-3-butenyl caffeate (MBC), all displaying stronger cytoprotective effects than their ferulate equivalents. We finally demonstrated that propolis extract and its active compounds reduced lipid peroxidation in post-mortem minced mouse skeletal muscle and compared their efficacy to other natural compounds. Chemical analysis of resins from neighboring flora suggested that black poplar (Populus nigra) buds are the primary botanical source of these caffeate derivatives. Collectively, these results highlight the functional diversity of hive propolis and its potential applications in food preservation as well as in complementary and preventive medicine. Full article

Health-promoting foods are attracting growing interest as complements to pharmacological interventions, particularly when incorporated into bioactive-enriched functional foods. The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) plays a key socio-economic role in arid and semi-arid regions, and is widely recognized for its high nutritional value, functional attributes, and therapeutic potential. Date fruits and their processing by-products, particularly the seeds, are a rich source of essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and diverse phytochemicals with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties. This narrative review summarizes the latest evidence from experimental, preclinical, and emerging clinical studies on the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, and biofunctional properties of dates and their derivatives, with particular emphasis on seeds as a significant processing by-product. Recent advances in their valorization for food applications, including bakery products, dairy products, beverages, meat products, confectionery, and active packaging, are critically discussed, as are their emerging uses in the pharmaceutical and related industries. Particular attention is given to their potential to improve the nutritional quality, functional performance, sensory attributes, and shelf life of food products. Overall, date fruits and their by-products are cost-effective, natural, and sustainable ingredients for developing value-added functional foods. Their efficient valorization offers promising strategies for reducing waste, implementing circular economy principles, and meeting the increasing consumer demand for healthier products. This review highlights the need for multidisciplinary research and innovation to advance sustainable by-product utilization, improve agro-industrial waste management, and expand the range of high-value applications for date fruits and seeds, thereby contributing to global food security, economic development, and improved public health. Full article

Global demand for sustainable food packaging materials has intensified research on bio-based biopolymer systems capable of delivering functional compounds. Among these, protein–polysaccharide gels have emerged as versatile matrices for the incorporation and controlled release of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. This review examines recent advances in the design and functionality of protein–polysaccharide gel systems for active food packaging applications. Particular attention is given to representative hybrid matrices such as casein/chitosan, gelatin/alginate, and whey protein/pectin systems, highlighting their gelation mechanisms, molecular interactions, and physicochemical properties. Furthermore, the review explores the potential of agro-industrial and marine by-products as renewable sources of proteins, polysaccharides, and bioactive compounds within circular bioeconomy strategies. Current limitations related to stability, scalability, and regulatory compliance are also addressed. By integrating structural, functional, and sustainability perspectives, this work provides a comprehensive framework for the development of next-generation protein–polysaccharide gel carriers for active food packaging. Full article

In this study, the interfacial phenomena of cotton/polyester blended fabric modified with enzymes and chitosan were investigated. Enzymatic pretreatments (bioactivation) were carried out using a pectinase complex (Biosol PRO), an esterase complex (Texazym PES), and a combination of both. Bioactivation aimed to activate the surface and improve interfacial properties, primarily the hydrophilicity of the polyester component in the blend. For the functionalization of bio-activated blended fabrics, a homogenized chitosan solution in a 3% acetic acid was prepared and applied in a pad–dry–cure process. Changes after enzyme bioactivation, chitosan functionalization, and three washing cycles were monitored by interfacial phenomena—including zeta potential, isoelectric point (IEP), specific surface charge, and contact angle, as well as wetting time and maximum wetted radius—measured using a Moisture Management Tester (MMT). Mechanical and spectral properties of fabrics and antimicrobial efficacy were determined as well. Although esterase and pectinase act on different components of the fabric, both contribute to improved fabric properties, especially when used together. The presence of chitosan on the fabric after three washing cycles was confirmed on enzyme-bioactivated fabrics by zeta potential, IEP, and specific surface charge. The antimicrobial activity was confirmed as well. The best results were obtained after functionalization with chitosan on the esterase-bioactivated surface. Overall, these treatments provide flexible and mechanically stable functionalization, demonstrating both antimicrobial effectiveness and washing stability, with the possibility of easy implementation in the textile industry. Full article

Background/Objectives: Antibodies are a rapidly expanding field in drug discovery, but their monospecificity limits therapeutic applications, particularly in complex inflammatory diseases. Multispecific therapeutics, which combine variable regions targeting two or more antigens, offer potential advantages such as enhanced efficacy, broader target modulation, and reduced side effects. This study aimed to identify and characterize bispecific, VHH-based antibodies simultaneously targeting IL-6 and IL-17A—two key cytokines involved in autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. Methods: A phage display screening was conducted using llama-derived VHH libraries to select binders against human IL-6 and IL-17A. Binding affinities of individual VHHs and assembled bispecific constructs were assessed using Bio-Layer Interferometry (BLI). Functional activity was evaluated using reporter cell lines responsive to IL-6 and IL-17A signaling. Biophysical and quality assessments of selected VHHs and bispecific antibodies were performed using the Uncle screening platform and LabChip capillary electrophoresis. Results: Several high-affinity VHH binders were identified for both IL-6 and IL-17A, and incorporated into bispecific antibody formats. The bispecific candidates exhibited simultaneous inhibition of both cytokine pathways in functional reporter assays. Biophysical characterization confirmed good stability and purity profiles for selected molecules. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of generating stable, functional bispecific VHH-based antibodies targeting IL-6 and IL-17A. These constructs show potential as therapeutic agents for treating autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases by modulating multiple signaling pathways simultaneously. Full article

Polymer–drug conjugates (PDCs) represent an advanced drug delivery strategy designed to address critical limitations of conventional therapeutics, including poor water solubility, rapid systemic clearance, and off-target toxicity. By covalently linking therapeutic agents to polymeric carriers through rationally designed linkers, PDCs enable improved pharmacokinetic profiles, enhanced stability, and controlled drug release. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the key design principles governing PDC systems, with a particular focus on the role of biofunctional polymers. Essential parameters for polymer selection, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, molecular weight, and functional group availability, are discussed in relation to their influence on drug loading, release kinetics, and biological performance. In addition, both natural and synthetic polymers are evaluated for their ability to improve solubility, modulate biodistribution, and reduce systemic toxicity. An overview of stimuli-responsive PDCs is provided, including pH-, redox-, and temperature-sensitive systems, which enable site-specific and spatiotemporally controlled drug release in response to pathological microenvironments. We emphasize the special role of bioactive polymers such as poly-lysine, hyaluronic acid, chitosan, and gelatin for their intrinsic biological activity, including receptor-mediated targeting, antimicrobial activity, and synergistic therapeutic effects. These properties support the development of dual-active conjugates with enhanced specificity and efficacy. Overall, this review underscores the transition of polymers from passive carriers to active therapeutic components and outlines current challenges and future perspectives for the clinical translation of next-generation PDCs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Low-fishmeal diets are widely adopted to improve sustainability in shrimp aquaculture, yet reduced palatability and metabolic stress frequently suppress feed intake and growth. We evaluated whether a crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) by-product protein hydrolysate (CBPH) could mitigate low-fishmeal-induced performance losses by modulating feeding-related metabolic signaling and gut microbiota features in Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Methods: In an 8-week feeding trial, 360 juveniles (initial body weight 0.46 g) were assigned to three diets (four replicates per diet): a commercial control (CON), a low-fishmeal diet (LFM), and LFM supplemented with 2% CBPH (CBPH). Growth, feed utilization, whole-body composition, hemolymph biochemical indices (TP, TG, GLU, AST, ALT), intestinal appetite-related gene expression (5-HTR, CART, CCK1R, D2-like, NPY), and intestinal microbiota profiles (full-length 16S rRNA sequencing, V1–V9, PacBio) were assessed. Results: Compared with the LFM group, CBPH supplementation increased feed intake and improved feed conversion, restoring final body weight and growth rates to levels comparable to CON. CBPH also alleviated low-fishmeal-associated metabolic stress, including reduced AST and ALT activities and lower glucose levels. The LFM diet induced upregulation of anorexigenic genes (5-HTR, CART, D2-like) and downregulation of NPY in the shrimp intestine, whereas CBPH supplementation reversed these transcriptional changes. In addition, microbiota richness indices (ACE and Chao1) were elevated by CBPH relative to LFM, accompanied by compositional shifts at the phylum and genus levels. Conclusions: CBPH effectively alleviated low-fishmeal-induced reductions in feeding and growth, accompanied by coordinated changes in feeding-related gene expression, systemic biochemical markers, and gut microbiota composition, supporting its potential as a functional ingredient to stabilize metabolic responses in low-fishmeal shrimp feeds. Full article

The development of biomimetic scaffolds requires balancing structural integrity with biological signaling. This study evaluates kefiran, a microbial exopolysaccharide, as a bioactive component in establishing printing feasibility of 3D composite constructs. Kefiran from Romanian artisanal cultures was characterized via ¹H-NMR, HPLC, and SEM/TEM, confirming a high-quality hexasaccharide repeating unit. Three composite inks (K100, K70, and K50) were developed by integrating kefiran, chondroitin sulfate, and Si-substituted hydroxyapatite into an alginate matrix and processed using a Bio X 3D-printer. Results showed that higher kefiran concentrations improved printing feasibility, providing enhanced structural fidelity and stability during the layer-by-layer deposition process. All bioprinted scaffolds demonstrated high cytocompatibility with L929 fibroblasts, maintaining viability above 70%. Notably, kefiran exhibited dual-functional therapeutic potential: concentrations above 500 mg/L showed a concentration-dependent antiproliferative effect against HT-29 cells at 72 h while remaining safe for normal cells. These findings establish kefiran-based biomaterial inks as robust, bioactive platforms for regenerative medicine. By enhancing both the mechanical printability of alginate composites and the biological response of cultured cells, kefiran proves to be a versatile component for advanced tissue engineering and potential biological activity applications. Full article

Plant-based biomaterials are increasingly recognized as bio-instructive platforms capable of actively modulating immune responses rather than functioning solely as passive structural supports. In this context, the term plant-based refers to photosynthetic biomass-derived platforms, including both terrestrial plants and marine macroalgae, reflecting their shared richness in polysaccharides and secondary metabolites relevant to immune engineering and regenerative medicine. This review critically synthesizes current evidence on plant-derived polysaccharides and phytochemicals, including algal sulfated polysaccharides (fucoidan, alginate, carrageenan, and ulvan), terrestrial plant polysaccharides (e.g., Lycium barbarum and Aloe vera derivatives), polyphenols, and other secondary metabolites such as terpenoids and alkaloids, highlighting their roles as immunomodulators in biomedical contexts. Key mechanisms include macrophage polarization along an M1–M2 continuum, pattern recognition receptor engagement, redox and metabolic regulation, and crosstalk between innate and adaptive immunity, with emphasis on context-dependent signaling and structural heterogeneity. Material design parameters, including molecular weight and chemical functionalization, are critical determinants of immune responses. Advanced delivery systems, such as hydrogels, nanocomposites, phytosomes, and plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), enable improved stability and spatiotemporal control. Applications in wound and musculoskeletal regeneration are discussed alongside translational challenges, including variability, reproducibility, regulatory issues, and the need for standardized characterization and immune validation. Full article

Chronic wounds are frequently associated with persistent inflammation, motivating the development of biofunctional materials capable of modulating cellular responses. In this proof-of-concept study, electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) nanomembranes were surface-functionalized by post-electrospinning drop coating with extracts derived from Agave sisalana agroindustrial residue obtained through two distinct routes: a saponin-rich fraction (EDP) and an acid-hydrolyzed sapogenin-enriched fraction (EAH). The study aimed to investigate how the extract phytochemical profile influences cytocompatibility and bioactivity when incorporated onto electrospun platforms. Phytochemical analysis revealed high total saponin content in EDP (33.83 ± 2.93 g/100 g) and significant sapogenin content in EAH (11.56 ± 0.60 g/100 g). SEM and FTIR-ATR analyses confirmed preservation of the fibrous architecture and polymer backbone, indicating predominantly physical surface incorporation. Biological evaluation demonstrated extract-dependent responses: PCL+EDP 5% exhibited marked cytotoxicity, consistent with the known membrane-disruptive properties of glycosylated saponins, whereas PCL+EAH 5% maintained high cell viability and showed anti-inflammatory activity (75% inhibition of phagocytosis; 56% protection against hemolysis) along with enhanced fibroblast migration (100% wound closure at 72 h). These findings highlight the critical role of extract chemical composition in determining the biological performance of surface-functionalized nanofibrous systems and support sapogenin-enriched fractions as safer bioactive modifiers for electrospun biomaterial platforms. Full article

Large bone defects resulting from trauma, tumor resection, infection, or degenerative diseases pose a major clinical challenge in orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine. Despite advances in biomaterials and surgical techniques, successful outcomes are often compromised by poor vascularization, limited osteoinduction, and donor-site morbidity associated with autografts or allografts. However, conventional delivery systems suffer from burst release, rapid clearance, off-target effects, and supraphysiologic dosing, which can lead to undesirable complications such as ectopic ossification and inflammation, with some reports raising concerns about the long-term tumorigenic risk. Heparin, a naturally highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan structurally related to heparan sulfate, has emerged as a particularly attractive candidate for affinity-based biomaterial systems. It naturally binds over 300 growth factors, including bone morphogenetic proteins. By protecting these proteins from enzymatic degradation, enhancing their bioavailability, and mediating receptor clustering, heparin provides both biochemical stability and biofunctional modulation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of heparin-based delivery strategies in bone tissue engineering. We begin by describing the biological functions of heparin in modulating growth factor activity. We then discuss in detail the different heparin-based biomaterials designed to sustain the release of growth factors for bone tissue engineering, including the heparin–polycation coacervate system; heparin-based supramolecules; and heparin-based hydrogels, nanoparticles, and microspheres for sustained release of bone morphogenic proteins and other growth factors for bone tissue engineering. Finally, we assess the clinical and translational relevance of heparin-based systems, identify key challenges, and outline future perspectives, highlighting the potential of these biomaterials for providing safer and more effective therapies for bone regeneration. Full article

The high incidence of Candida albicans infections and the limited efficacy of current antifungal therapies highlight the need for new antifungal agents. In this study, we present a bio-based hybridization strategy aimed at enhancing the antifungal activity of natural product scaffolds, with a particular focus on trans-ferulic acid. A library of twenty-nine hybrid molecules was rationally generated by grafting naturally occurring lipophilic moieties onto either the phenolic or carboxylic acid functions of ferulic acid. The antifungal activity of these molecules was then assessed against C. albicans. While the parent natural compounds exhibited weak activity (MIC > 500 µM), several hybrid derivatives (ATF19, ATF20, and MB22) demonstrated enhanced potency, with MIC values of <50 µM. Esters of the carboxylic acid or phenol group were essential for activity, with the most potent effects observed for short linear or mildly branched lipophilic chains. These active compounds exerted a multifaceted anti-virulence effect, including mitochondrial membrane depolarization, inhibition of hyphal morphogenesis, alterations in cell wall composition, and strong suppression of biofilm formation. Additionally, lead compounds showed no detectable cytotoxicity in human macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells and significantly improved host survival in a Caenorhabditis elegans model of C. albicans infection. Overall, the ferulic acid, citronellol, and sinapic hybrid molecules emerged as promising lead compounds for the development of antifungals against C. albicans. Full article

Nigrospora musae ST1 is a newly identified pathogen responsible for leaf spot disease in Idesia polycarpa. In order to further advance our understanding of this strain and improve management strategies for the leaf spot disease, the PacBio Sequel II platform was used to perform whole-genome sequencing of N. musae ST1. The assembled genome comprised 42 contigs, with a total length of 49,259,803 bp and an average GC content of 56.23%. Functional annotation identified 12,063 protein-coding genes, including 125 Transporter Classification Database (TCDB)-related genes, 3600 pathogen host interaction (PHI) genes, 2503 Virulence Factor Database (DFVF)-related genes, and 722 genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). Integrated analyses of the secretome, PHI, and DFVF databases revealed six secreted carbohydrate-active enzymes implicated in plant pathogenicity, including three glycoside hydrolases, two pectinate lyases, and one cutinase, potentially playing important roles in pathogenicity. A total of 77 secondary metabolite gene clusters were predicted. Comparative genomic analysis between N. musae ST1 and other Nigrospora species revealed differences in genome rearrangements in Nigrospora fungi. In conclusion, this study has clarified the whole-genome structural characteristics and evolutionary relationships of the newly reported pathogenic fungus, N. musae ST1. It provides a theoretical foundation for future investigations into the pathogenic mechanisms of N. musae ST1 infection in I. polycarpa, as well as potential targets for disease control. Full article