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25 pages, 13072 KB  
Review
The Intestinal Fate of Phenolic Substances in Honey: Metabolism by Gut Microbiota, Regulation of Bioavailability, and Its Prebiotic Effects on Host Health
by Qiao Yang, Wenna Yu, Tongyi Wang, Xiangxin Li and Renpeng Du
Foods 2026, 15(15), 2720; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15152720 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2026
Abstract
This review systematically summarizes the metabolic transformation patterns, bioavailability regulation mechanisms, and multi-target host health effects of honey phenolic compounds under the action of gut microbiota, based on literature from 1996 to 2026. It focuses on elucidating the “high efficacy in vitro, low [...] Read more.
This review systematically summarizes the metabolic transformation patterns, bioavailability regulation mechanisms, and multi-target host health effects of honey phenolic compounds under the action of gut microbiota, based on literature from 1996 to 2026. It focuses on elucidating the “high efficacy in vitro, low exposure in vivo” paradox, the three-step cascade metabolic pathway (deglycosylation, C-ring cleavage, and reduction with secondary transformation), and the synergistic prebiotic effects of “oligosaccharides plus phenolics.” Current evidence indicates that the health benefits of honey are largely derived from microbiota-derived small-molecule metabolites rather than from the parent compounds, and these metabolites exert regulatory effects via the gut–liver, gut–brain, gut–immune, and gut–fat axes. However, the vast majority of evidence comes from in vitro fermentation, animal models, or ex vivo fecal cultures, with a severe shortage of high-quality human intervention studies, thereby limiting causal inference. Therefore, this review proposes a shift in honey quality evaluation from traditional qualitative chemical composition-based assessment toward precision functional evaluation based on metabolite profiles, and emphasizes the urgent need to establish standardized metabolite-based quality markers, develop enterotype-based stratified nutrition strategies, and conduct rigorous randomized controlled trials, so as to promote the transformation of honey from a traditional food into a targeted dietary intervention agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Beehive Products)
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21 pages, 4631 KB  
Article
Effects of Four Marine Toxins on Murine Hepatic Biotransformation Enzymes
by Joanna Soto de Jesus, Carmen González-Keelan, Peter A. Meléndez, Carmen L. Cadilla, Jasmine Contreras and Braulio D. Jiménez-Vélez
Toxins 2026, 18(8), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins18080331 - 30 Jul 2026
Viewed by 149
Abstract
This study assesses the impact of sublethal levels of four marine toxins ciguatoxin (CTX-1), maitotoxin-2 (MTX-2), saxitoxin (STX) and brevetoxin-2 (BTX-2) on murine hepatic detoxification enzymes expressed in mouse liver. CTX-1, BTX-2, and STX altered hepatic detoxification responses, but their effects were generally [...] Read more.
This study assesses the impact of sublethal levels of four marine toxins ciguatoxin (CTX-1), maitotoxin-2 (MTX-2), saxitoxin (STX) and brevetoxin-2 (BTX-2) on murine hepatic detoxification enzymes expressed in mouse liver. CTX-1, BTX-2, and STX altered hepatic detoxification responses, but their effects were generally more limited or temporally variable than those observed with MTX-2. CTX-1 produced time-dependent changes in cytochromes P450 (CYPs)-associated activities, BTX-2 induced early CYP1A2 and CYP3A11 responses followed by later suppression, and STX reduced CYP1A2 and CYP3A11 while increasing microsomal reductase activities. Of these toxins, MTX-2 exhibited the highest toxicity, notably decreasing key proteins such as CYPs, including CYP1A2 and CYP3A11. CYP enzymes are vital for metabolizing important endogenous and various xenobiotic substances, including therapeutic drugs. After MTX-2 exposure, both CYP1A2 and CYP3A11 levels dropped significantly at 12 h (p < 0.0001 for CYP3A11, p < 0.0001 for CYP1A2). Histopathological analysis revealed liver damage; however, albumin mRNA levels remained stable post-MTX-2 treatment, indicating that hepatotoxicity was not the sole cause of CYP3A11 reduction. Immunohistochemical analysis displayed uniform CYP3A11 distribution across liver regions after MTX-2 treatment. This suggests that MTX-2 exposure could augment the toxicity of drugs like Aldactone, Erythromycin, and Cyclosporine that utilize this metabolic pathway in humans. This is the first type of research performed of this nature, which could add to our understanding of marine toxin metabolism. These findings provide additional toxicological insights into the effects of four marine toxins on detoxification enzymes, with particular interest in MTX-2 toxicity, and potential implications for the treatment of fish poisoning, including ciguatera fish poisoning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Ciguatoxin)
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26 pages, 11806 KB  
Article
Development and Optimization of Sodium Deoxycholate-Stabilised Shellac-Based Polymeric Nanoparticles for Enhanced Pharmacokinetics and Anticancer Activity of Etodolac in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Ritesh A. Fule, Aishwarya S. Rangurwar, Pankaj D. Nagpure, Helal G. Alanazi, Mohammed M. Alruwaili, Md Ali Mujtaba, Gamal Osman Elhassan and Siham Abdoun
Polymers 2026, 18(15), 1863; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18151863 - 29 Jul 2026
Viewed by 122
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer, is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and optimise etodolac-loaded sodium deoxycholate-stabilised shellac-based polymeric nanoparticles (ETD-SDS-SHNPs) to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of etodolac [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer, is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and optimise etodolac-loaded sodium deoxycholate-stabilised shellac-based polymeric nanoparticles (ETD-SDS-SHNPs) to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of etodolac (ETD) in HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Methods: The nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare ETD-SDS-SHNPs, which were then optimised using a Box–Behnken design and evaluated for particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficiency (EE), solid-state characterization, and in vitro drug dissolution. Furthermore, in vivo oral bioavailability, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and cell cycle progression were assessed. Results: The optimised ETD-SDS-SHNPs formulation showed an average PS of 192 ± 1.50 nm, ZP of −20.2 ± 0.4 mV, and EE of 81.6 ± 1.42%. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction confirmed the reduced crystallinity of ETD-SDS-SHNPs, indicating partial amorphisation of the drug in the formulation. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy revealed predominantly spherical nanoparticles with relatively smooth surfaces. The peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of ETD-SDS-SHNPs (11.86 ± 0.12 µg/mL) was significantly higher than that of the pure ETD (7.15 ± 0.14 µg/mL). Similarly, the AUC0–t for ETD-SDS-SHNPs (351.63 ± 4.59 µg·h/mL) was approximately 1.48-fold greater than that of the pure drug (236.09 ± 4.60 µg·h/mL), indicating enhanced bioavailability. ETD-SDS-SHNPs demonstrated dose-dependent enhancement of cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells, accompanied by S-phase cell cycle arrest and increased cellular uptake. Conclusions: ETD-SDS-SHNPs formulation offers an enhanced passive, efficient, and safer nanocarrier platform for repurposing etodolac in liver cancer therapy, showing significant promise for improving clinical outcomes in HCC treatment. Full article
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35 pages, 4529 KB  
Review
Resistin in Tissue Remodeling and Fibrosis: A New Frontier
by Barkin Ergun, Mehreen Ahmed and Djamel Lebeche
Biomolecules 2026, 16(8), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16081108 - 29 Jul 2026
Viewed by 263
Abstract
Initially identified as a hormone linking obesity to insulin resistance, resistin is now recognized as a pleiotropic mediator whose cellular sources and biological functions differ substantially between humans and rodents. Beyond its established roles in metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, emerging evidence suggests that [...] Read more.
Initially identified as a hormone linking obesity to insulin resistance, resistin is now recognized as a pleiotropic mediator whose cellular sources and biological functions differ substantially between humans and rodents. Beyond its established roles in metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, emerging evidence suggests that resistin may contribute to tissue remodeling and fibrosis in a context-dependent manner. This review critically synthesizes mechanistic, translational, and clinical evidence across the heart, liver, lung, and kidney. Reported interactions with candidate receptors or binding partners, including adenylyl cyclase-associated protein 1 (CAP1) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), link resistin-associated signaling to inflammatory, oxidative-stress, and profibrotic pathways that can influence fibroblast activation, hepatic stellate cell responses, extracellular matrix production, and structural tissue remodeling. However, the strength and nature of the available evidence differ markedly among organ systems. Direct profibrotic effects are most strongly supported in cardiac experimental models and selected hepatic systems, whereas pulmonary mechanistic evidence is derived largely from studies of other RELM/FIZZ family members, particularly RELMα/FIZZ1 and RELMβ/FIZZ2, rather than human resistin itself, and renal evidence remains predominantly associative. We, therefore, propose a mechanistic paradigm shift that expands, rather than replaces, the established inflammatory role of resistin. Within this framework, the “fibrotic switch” is presented as a unifying hypothesis whereby persistent resistin-associated signaling may couple chronic inflammatory and metabolic stress to progressive fibrogenic remodeling, requiring further organ-, species-, and cell-specific validation. Defining the relevant cellular sources, receptors, and causal pathways will be essential for evaluating resistin as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target in fibrotic disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)
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22 pages, 26646 KB  
Article
Ghrelin Induces Clu+ Revival Stem Cells and Regenerates Lgr5+ Stem Cells via the Vagus Nerve to Mitigate Gastrointestinal Acute Radiation Syndrome
by Fangming Zhang, Hui Jin, Gaifeng Ma, Asha Jacob, Ping Wang and Max Brenner
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(15), 6781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156781 - 29 Jul 2026
Viewed by 102
Abstract
Gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS) is a deadly consequence of radiation exposure. We hypothesized that the peptide ghrelin is enteroprotective after radiation injury, and that ghrelin promotes intestinal stem cell regeneration via the vagus nerve. We subjected mice to 12-Gy partial body irradiation [...] Read more.
Gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS) is a deadly consequence of radiation exposure. We hypothesized that the peptide ghrelin is enteroprotective after radiation injury, and that ghrelin promotes intestinal stem cell regeneration via the vagus nerve. We subjected mice to 12-Gy partial body irradiation (PBI) with 5% bone marrow sparing. Some mice were vagotomized prior to PBI. We then injected the mice with human ghrelin (6 nmol/mouse) or vehicle at 24, 48, and 72 h post-irradiation, and collected blood and tissues at 96 h. PBI caused an 80% reduction in plasma citrulline, 32% shorter villi, 59% fewer crypts, a 14-fold increase in TUNEL+ cells, a 9-fold increase in intestinal permeability (FD4), and 4- to 30-fold increases in bacterial translocation (16S rRNA) to the liver and mesentery. Ghrelin significantly improved all these parameters. Remarkably, vagotomy attenuated ghrelin’s protective effects by 22–58%. Mechanistically, ghrelin increased proliferating crypt cells by 2.3-fold, Lgr5+ active stem cells by 2.6-fold, Clu+ revival stem cells by 3.3-fold (immunofluorescence), and Clu mRNA by 1.6-fold compared to PBI alone, and all these effects were significantly diminished by vagotomy. Thus, ghrelin mitigates GI-ARS through vagus nerve-dependent activation of Clu+ revival stem cells and Lgr5+ stem cells, identifying a novel vagal-dependent neuroenteric pathway that regulates intestinal crypt regeneration after radiation injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insight into Radiation Biology and Radiation Exposure)
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17 pages, 3605 KB  
Article
Safe and Effective Histotripsy Ablation of Human Liver Tumors in a Genetically Modified Porcine Model
by Tamalika Paul, Jessica Gannon, Manali Powar, Cora Youngs, Cassandra S. Poole, Carley M. Elliott, Mackenzie K. Woolls, Khan Imran Mohammad, Sherrie Clark-Deener, Christopher Byron, Michael Edwards, Sheryl Coutermarsh-Ott, Kristin Eden, Kiho Lee, Timothy J. Ziemlewicz, Eli Vlaisavljevich and Irving C. Allen
Cancers 2026, 18(15), 2432; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18152432 - 29 Jul 2026
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Background: Liver cancers are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients where effective, non-invasive treatment options remain limited. Objective: Histotripsy is a non-invasive, non-thermal, image-guided focused ultrasound method of ablation that mechanically disrupts cells and offers a range of potential advantages [...] Read more.
Background: Liver cancers are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients where effective, non-invasive treatment options remain limited. Objective: Histotripsy is a non-invasive, non-thermal, image-guided focused ultrasound method of ablation that mechanically disrupts cells and offers a range of potential advantages over other ablation modalities. The lack of physiologically and anatomically relevant animal models of human liver cancer has significantly hindered biomedical device development, including histotripsy. Methods: To address these limitations, we developed a clinically relevant large animal orthotopic, dual-tumor model of human liver cancer and utilized these unique animals to evaluate the safety and efficacy of histotripsy. Here, we utilized immunocompromised pigs with genetic modifications in their IL-2RG and RAG2 genes and orthotopically engrafted human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2/C3A) and pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Panc-1) cells within the liver. The models were designed to recapitulate primary and metastatic liver tumor phenotypes. Results: Histotripsy enabled real-time visualization of the treatment by the formation of bubble clouds and accurate targeting of the lesions. Histological analysis confirmed the engraftment of tumor cells and the ablation of targeted tissue. Serum biomarkers demonstrated no significant differences in bilirubin, ALT, ALKP, or CK post-treatment, suggesting that histotripsy treatment was well tolerated with minimal hepatic dysfunction or hepatocellular injury. Conclusions: These findings establish a novel, clinically relevant porcine model of primary and metastatic liver tumors and demonstrate the safety and feasibility of using this model for evaluating histotripsy as a noninvasive modality for precise tumor ablation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultrasound for Cancer Therapy)
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27 pages, 17858 KB  
Article
Unveiling the Molecular Mechanism of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q in Lipid-Metabolism-Related Diseases Through Network Toxicology and Experimental Validation
by Ze Li, Yuyang Luo, Jianan Zhao, Siyi Wang and Yixuan Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(15), 6712; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156712 - 27 Jul 2026
Viewed by 186
Abstract
6PPD and its ozonation product 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q) are ubiquitous tire-derived pollutants linked to environmental and potential human health risks. This study systematically investigated their mechanisms in lipid-metabolism-related diseases (atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) through network toxicology, transcriptomic validation, molecular [...] Read more.
6PPD and its ozonation product 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q) are ubiquitous tire-derived pollutants linked to environmental and potential human health risks. This study systematically investigated their mechanisms in lipid-metabolism-related diseases (atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) through network toxicology, transcriptomic validation, molecular docking, and experimental models. Targets of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q were predicted using multiple databases and intersected with disease-associated genes. Protein–protein interaction networks, hub gene screening, GO/KEGG enrichment, and GEO transcriptomic datasets identified key shared core targets, including PTGS2, MMP9, CXCL8 (for 6PPD), MAPK14, and PTGS2 (for 6PPD-Q). Molecular docking suggested potential strong binding affinities. Integrative analysis highlighted convergence on oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid dysregulation, and MAPK signaling. In vivo, 40-day exposure to 6PPD and 6PPD-Q in C57BL/6 mice induced hepatic steatosis, elevated serum TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C, upregulated inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL1B, IL6, and IFNG), and core targets. In vitro, both compounds caused dose-dependent cytotoxicity, ROS accumulation, glutathione redox imbalance, and pro-inflammatory activation. These findings suggest that 6PPD and 6PPD-Q may contribute to lipid-metabolism-related toxic responses through shared and distinct processes involving oxidative stress, inflammatory activation, and lipid dysregulation. These results provide preliminary mechanistic insights into their metabolic toxicity and support further experimental evaluation for environmental health risk assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Toxicology)
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22 pages, 21232 KB  
Article
Preclinical Pharmacological Evaluation of Sacituzumab Govitecan (IMMU-132) in TROP2-Positive Colorectal Liver Metastasis Models
by Weili Zhang, Ruowei Wang, Yingting Situ, Weifeng Wang, Jianhong Peng and Zhenhai Lu
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(8), 1163; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19081163 - 25 Jul 2026
Viewed by 184
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sacituzumab govitecan (SG, IMMU-132) is a TROP2-directed antibody–drug conjugate carrying SN-38. Patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) still have limited treatment options after first-line systemic therapy, and the preclinical pharmacological value of TROP2-directed SN-38 delivery in CRLM remains insufficiently defined. Methods [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sacituzumab govitecan (SG, IMMU-132) is a TROP2-directed antibody–drug conjugate carrying SN-38. Patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) still have limited treatment options after first-line systemic therapy, and the preclinical pharmacological value of TROP2-directed SN-38 delivery in CRLM remains insufficiently defined. Methods: Public single-cell RNA-sequencing data were reanalyzed to explore the distribution of TACSTD2/TROP2-positive epithelial-associated cells in adjacent normal tissues, primary colorectal cancer, and CRLM. The prognostic relevance of TACSTD2 was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database. TROP2-knockdown and TROP2-overexpressing colorectal cancer models were used to assess IMMU-132 response in vitro and in vivo. Pharmacological antitumor activity was further evaluated using subcutaneous xenografts, syngeneic intrasplenic liver metastasis models, and CRLM patient-derived organoids (PDOs). Transcriptomic profiling and γ-H2AX immunofluorescence were used to explore treatment-associated molecular changes. Results: At the patient/sample level, TACSTD2/TROP2-positive epithelial-associated cells showed numerically higher proportions in primary colorectal tumors and liver metastases than in adjacent normal tissues, and high TACSTD2 expression was associated with inferior overall survival in a public survival database. TROP2 knockdown attenuated IMMU-132-induced growth inhibition, apoptosis, and suppression of colony formation. In vivo, IMMU-132 suppressed colorectal tumor growth and reduced liver metastatic burden, with more evident activity in human TROP2-overexpressing models. In a limited exploratory CRLM PDO cohort established after first-line therapy, liver metastasis-derived PDOs showed lower normalized AUC values than primary tumor-derived PDOs. Transcriptomic analysis and representative γ-H2AX immunofluorescence suggested that IMMU-132 treatment was associated with changes in adhesion/cytoskeletal-related pathways, Wnt/cancer-associated transcriptional programs, and DNA damage-associated signals. Conclusions: These in vitro, in vivo, and PDO-based findings support further preclinical pharmacological evaluation of TROP2-directed SN-38 delivery by IMMU-132 in biomarker-annotated CRLM models, particularly in the post-first-line systemic therapy setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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17 pages, 9133 KB  
Article
Vitamin E Attenuates Glyphosate-Induced Multi-Organ Toxicity and Redox Imbalance in Rats: Biochemical and Histopathological Evidence
by Muhammet Can, Cihangir Işık, Cengiz Gökbulut, Şehver Ege Hïsmïoğullari, Gülay Turan, Akın Usta, Özgür Bulmuş and Mustafa Hilmi Yaranoğlu
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(8), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13080740 - 25 Jul 2026
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide, is of growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine because livestock, companion, and working animals may be chronically exposed through feed, water, and grazing on treated land. This study evaluates the protective effects of vitamin [...] Read more.
Glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide, is of growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine because livestock, companion, and working animals may be chronically exposed through feed, water, and grazing on treated land. This study evaluates the protective effects of vitamin E (α-tocopherol acetate) against chronic glyphosate-induced hepatotoxicity, multi-organ histopathological damage, and disturbances of systemic redox balance in male Wistar rats. Fifty-six rats were allocated to six groups: control, low-dose glyphosate (LG, 560 mg/kg/day), high-dose glyphosate (HG, 1120 mg/kg/day), LG + vitamin E, HG + vitamin E, and vitamin E alone. Treatments were administered by oral gavage for 30 days at equalised dosing volumes. Serum oxidant/antioxidant markers—total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS) and the oxidative stress index (OSI)—hepatic enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, LDH), renal markers (urea, creatinine) and cardiac marker creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) were measured; liver, lung, kidney, testis and heart were examined histopathologically. Glyphosate produced dose-dependent hepatocellular enzyme elevations (AST, ALT) and progressive multi-organ histopathological injury. Contrary to expectation, serum TOS and OSI did not increase in the glyphosate-only groups but were instead lower than in controls, accompanied by a compensatory rise in TAS—indicating that circulating oxidant markers may underestimate tissue-level oxidative injury at this exposure duration. Vitamin E co-administration markedly enhanced TAS, lowered TOS relative to the corresponding glyphosate group (HG + VitE vs. HG, p = 0.007), reduced OSI and substantially attenuated histopathological damage across all examined organs. Vitamin E thus mitigates glyphosate-induced tissue injury and improves systemic antioxidant capacity, supporting its potential as a protective dietary antioxidant in animals subject to chronic glyphosate exposure. Full article
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39 pages, 8606 KB  
Review
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Molecular Mechanisms, Bioavailability Challenges, and Therapeutic Perspectives
by Muhammad Maaz, Muhammad Tauseef Sultan, Ahmad Mujtaba Noman, Ralf Weiskirchen, Waleed Rizk ElGhareeb, Bodour Ibrahim Al Shik Mubarak, Adel A. Rezk and Marwa Ezz El-Din Ibrahim
Nutrients 2026, 18(15), 2416; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18152416 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 1517
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a key component of the Mediterranean diet, has attracted research interest because olive-derived phenolics demonstrate potential anticancer activity in experimental models. This review summarizes evidence concerning whole EVOO, phenolic-enriched EVOO, olive phenolic extracts, and the isolated [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a key component of the Mediterranean diet, has attracted research interest because olive-derived phenolics demonstrate potential anticancer activity in experimental models. This review summarizes evidence concerning whole EVOO, phenolic-enriched EVOO, olive phenolic extracts, and the isolated compounds hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, oleocanthal, and oleacein. Methods: A structured narrative search of PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted for literature published between 2015 and 2025. Evidence was reviewed for breast, prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, bone, oral, liver, gastric, hematological, and brain cancers. Comparatively limited evidence concerning cervical, endometrial, ovarian, melanoma, non-melanoma skin, and thyroid cancers was summarized separately. Results: The molecular evidence was derived primarily from cell culture and animal studies using isolated phenolics and concentrated extracts. Preclinical studies indicate that EVOO phenolics may demonstrate anticancer activity through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, inhibition of metastasis, anti-angiogenic activity, and modulation of key signaling pathways, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, p53, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition-related pathways. Most molecular and pathway-level evidence was obtained using isolated phenolic compounds in cell culture or animal models, whereas evidence directly examining whole EVOO consumption was largely observational and substantially more limited. Experimental studies also reported that oleocanthal induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization, whereas hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein promoted mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, preclinical combination studies suggested enhanced tumor-cell sensitivity to selected chemotherapeutic, targeted, and immunotherapeutic agents. However, these effects have not been established in patients. Human evidence remains limited mainly to observational dietary associations and small exploratory interventions, with no conclusive demonstration of cancer prevention or therapeutic efficacy. Conclusions: Isolated EVOO-derived phenolic compounds demonstrated promising anticancer mechanisms in preclinical models. However, these results should not be directly extrapolated to dietary EVOO because experimentally administered doses, bioavailability, metabolism, and food-matrix interactions differ substantially from human dietary exposure. Therefore, well-designed studies using chemically characterized EVOO, pharmacokinetic investigations, and controlled human trials are required before dietary or clinical recommendations can be made. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Olive Oil on Human Health)
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22 pages, 3754 KB  
Review
Beyond Fat: Reframing MASLD Through Genetics, Clonal Biology, and Precision Hepatology
by Javier Crespo, Marta Alonso-Peña, Carolina Jiménez-González, Lorena Cayón-Gonzalez and Paula Iruzubieta
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(8), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19081145 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 234
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has traditionally been conceptualized as a predominantly metabolic disorder driven by obesity and insulin resistance. However, recent advances in human genetics have revealed a more complex picture that encompasses germline susceptibility variants, protective loss-of-function alleles, polygenic risk [...] Read more.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has traditionally been conceptualized as a predominantly metabolic disorder driven by obesity and insulin resistance. However, recent advances in human genetics have revealed a more complex picture that encompasses germline susceptibility variants, protective loss-of-function alleles, polygenic risk models, and somatic clonal evolution. Since the discovery of PNPLA3 (patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3) I148M, multiple loci—including TM6SF2, MBOAT7, GCKR, HSD17B13, MTARC1, GPAM, and CIDEB—have substantially expanded the mechanistic understanding of disease heterogeneity and hepatocellular vulnerability. Recent studies integrating partitioned polygenic risk scores and unsupervised phenotypic clustering suggest that MASLD may be organized into at least two predominant subtypes: a liver-specific subtype characterized by intrinsic hepatocellular susceptibility, and a cardiometabolic subtype associated with systemic metabolic dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk. Analyses of cirrhotic liver tissue have, in turn, demonstrated somatic clonal expansion of hepatocytes harboring adaptive metabolic mutations, adding an evolutionary dimension to advanced disease. On this basis, we propose an integrated LS/CM/C framework encompassing liver-specific (LS), cardiometabolic (CM), and clonal (C) components. This model offers a conceptual structure that links germline genetics, metabolic heterogeneity, somatic adaptation, and emerging pharmacogenomic strategies. The recent development of genotype-directed therapies targeting PNPLA3 and HSD17B13, together with the approval of resmetirom and semaglutide, further supports the transition toward biologically stratified hepatology. Although prospective validation remains necessary, the convergence of genetics, clonal biology, and targeted therapeutics suggests that MASLD is moving toward an era of precision medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)
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19 pages, 2411 KB  
Article
Preclinical Safety Evaluation of a Replication-Defective Canine Adenovirus Type 2 Vector-Based SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Candidate in Murine Models
by Denis Omara, Christian Ndekezi, Susan Mugaba, Angella Nakyanzi, Fortunate Natwijuka, Anne Kapaata, Frank Kato, Drake Byamukama, David E. Ggwaabya, Orla Mugulusi, Freddie Bwanga, David P. Katete, Enock Matovu, Joseph Olobo, Ekii Andrew Obuku, Obondo James Sande, Jennifer Serwanga, Stephen Cose, Pontiano Kaleebu and Sheila N. Balinda
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080647 - 23 Jul 2026
Viewed by 281
Abstract
Background: Adenoviral vectors are widely used in vaccine development; however, pre-existing immunity to common human adenovirus serotypes can limit their effectiveness. Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) is a non-human adenovirus with low seroprevalence in humans, making it a suitable alternative vector. Despite its [...] Read more.
Background: Adenoviral vectors are widely used in vaccine development; however, pre-existing immunity to common human adenovirus serotypes can limit their effectiveness. Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) is a non-human adenovirus with low seroprevalence in humans, making it a suitable alternative vector. Despite its promise, comprehensive preclinical safety data for CAV-2 vector-based vaccine platforms remain limited. In this study, we evaluated the safety profile of a replication-defective CAV-2 vector expressing the Omicron BA.4 SARS-CoV-2 spike immunogen in BALB/c mouse models. Methods: The SARS-CoV-2 CAV-2 vector-based vaccine was expressed and propagated in AD293 cells. The mice received intramuscular prime-boost immunisations with low (1 × 106 PFU), moderate (0.5 × 1010 PFU), or high (1 × 1010 PFU) vaccine doses, alongside empty CAV-2 vector and physiological buffer control groups, and were monitored longitudinally up to Day 72. The mice were clinically assessed at days 0, 7, 21, 42, and 72 for any deviations from normal conditions in comparison to the control groups. Biochemical analyses were performed to evaluate liver and kidney function, as well as any tissue injury due to the vaccine candidate. Hematological parameters were assessed by conducting complete blood counts. Body temperature and weight changes were also monitored as an indicator of systemic toxicity. Results: The biochemical and haematological parameters remained within physiological reference ranges across all dose groups and timepoints, with no dose-related deviations, indicating that the vaccine candidate did not show evidence of hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, tissue or haematological toxicity. Body temperatures remained within normal physiological ranges following both prime and booster immunisations, and body weights increased normally across all groups as the animals grew throughout the study period without any abnormal weight gain or loss. Conclusions: These results suggest that the replication-defective CAV-2-vectored SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate was well tolerated and did not demonstrate evidence of systemic toxicity under the conditions tested. These findings demonstrate that the CAV-2 vector exhibits a favourable safety profile in murine models when used as a vaccine delivery platform, supporting its translational potential as an alternative adenoviral vector-based vaccine platform. Further studies incorporating additional safety endpoints, including histopathological, vector persistence and shedding evaluation, are warranted to support continued development of the platform. Full article
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18 pages, 1798 KB  
Review
MicroRNAs in Obesity, Insulin Resistance, and Type 2 Diabetes: Mechanistic Insights and Translational Perspectives
by Tamires M. Zanotto and Mario J. A. Saad
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6501; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146501 - 22 Jul 2026
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Abstract
Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are multifactorial disorders characterized by insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, adipose tissue dysfunction, and multi-organ metabolic impairment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as post-transcriptional gene regulators and play critical roles in metabolic homeostasis, the modulation of insulin signaling, [...] Read more.
Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are multifactorial disorders characterized by insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, adipose tissue dysfunction, and multi-organ metabolic impairment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as post-transcriptional gene regulators and play critical roles in metabolic homeostasis, the modulation of insulin signaling, adipogenesis, inflammatory pathways, and energy balance in key insulin-target tissues, including liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue. This review summarizes mechanistic and translational insights into miRNA regulation in obesity, insulin resistance, and T2DM, integrating data from human studies and experimental models on miRNA sequence codes and extracellular vesicle sorting pathways. We focus on the tissue-specific and systemic roles of miRNAs, highlighting their contribution to inter-organ communication and metabolic network regulation. In addition, we emphasize their emerging roles as predictive biomarkers, modulators of treatment response, and promising targets for RNA-based interventions. Advances in sequence-specific miRNA sorting and extracellular vesicle-mediated delivery may provide avenues for therapeutic intervention. However, challenges related to delivery efficiency, tissue specificity, off-target effects, and variability in miRNA quantification remain important barriers to clinical translation. Addressing these limitations may help define the clinical utility of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in metabolic disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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22 pages, 1537 KB  
Article
Phenolic Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Systemic Biomarker Variability in Patients with Lung Cancer
by Larisa Đurić, Nataša Milošević, Maja Milanović, Danica Sazdanić-Velikić, Jana Pavlović, Milorad Španović and Nataša Milić
Medicina 2026, 62(7), 1409; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62071409 - 21 Jul 2026
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: Environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to cancer-related biological variability; however, human biomonitoring data in oncology populations remain limited. The present study aimed to assess urinary concentrations of selected phenolic EDCs and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to cancer-related biological variability; however, human biomonitoring data in oncology populations remain limited. The present study aimed to assess urinary concentrations of selected phenolic EDCs and their associations with cardiometabolic, hematological, inflammatory, and survival-related parameters in patients with advanced lung cancer. Materials and Methods: A total of 190 patients diagnosed with stage IIIB/IV lung cancer were included in this study. Urinary concentrations of bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS), triclosan (TCS), and resorcinol (RCO) were determined using validated analytical methods. Associations between exposure biomarkers and clinical laboratory parameters were evaluated using sex-stratified statistical analyses and regression models adjusted for age and body mass index. Results: TCS was the most frequently quantified compound (29.47%), followed by BPS (27.37%), RCO (11.58%), and BPA (7.89%). Higher odds of TCS quantification were observed in patients with lung adenocarcinoma and a higher probability of BPA quantification in patients with squamous-cell carcinoma. Sex-specific exposure patterns were observed, with higher BPA and BPS concentrations measured among female patients. Exposure to phenolic EDCs was associated with alterations in kidney function biomarkers, liver enzyme activity, inflammatory cell profiles, and anthropometric indicators. In particular, BPA and BPS showed associations with renal function markers and systemic inflammatory parameters, while TCS exposure was related to reduced leukocyte subpopulations. Survival analysis demonstrates borderline associations for BPA between exposure groups. Conclusions: These findings provide novel human biomonitoring evidence linking exposure to phenolic endocrine-disrupting chemicals with systemic metabolic and inflammatory variability in patients with advanced lung cancer. The observed associations support the biological plausibility that environmental endocrine disruptors may contribute to interindividual heterogeneity in cancer-related physiological responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pulmonology)
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38 pages, 1267 KB  
Review
Palmitoylethanolamide in Human and Animal Obesity
by Clara Naccari, Elettra Mancuso, Eugenio Donato Di Paola and Giovambattista De Sarro
Molecules 2026, 31(14), 2524; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31142524 - 20 Jul 2026
Viewed by 303
Abstract
Background: With the increase in the middle-aged population and sedentary lifestyle, a high incidence of obesity has been observed in humans and in animals. Obesity is consequent or correlated to multiple diseases, such as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), diabetes, dyslipidemia, etc. The [...] Read more.
Background: With the increase in the middle-aged population and sedentary lifestyle, a high incidence of obesity has been observed in humans and in animals. Obesity is consequent or correlated to multiple diseases, such as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), diabetes, dyslipidemia, etc. The attention of many researchers is focused on understanding the specific cellular mechanism and the role of inflammation, particularly chronic, in the development of this pathology as well as its link with dysmetabolic conditions, which seriously affect the survival of both humans and animals. Objective: The aim of this review is to discuss the mechanism responsible for obesity, the specific drugs used in the treatment of this disease, and, considering the link between obesity and inflammation, the possible employment of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a natural lipidic mediator with anti-obesity activity in humans and animals. Materials and Methods: The selection of articles chosen for this review paper was performed through the most important electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar); the specific inclusion criteria were applied systematically each time to ensure that the selection of papers closely aligned. Results: The treatment of obesity is focused on the management of weight through dietary caloric restriction, sustainable nutritional behaviors and long life therapy, which are also useful to prevent comorbidities. Several specific drugs for the treatment of this pathologic condition are available in both human and veterinary medicine. However, considering the documented link between inflammation and obesity, the possible use of PEA, authorized in veterinary medicine as a food supplement, could represent a valid therapeutic strategy in the treatment of human obesity. Conclusions: From studies present in the literature on obesity and its therapeutic approach in both human and veterinary medicine, and considering the importance of natural molecules in health management, the use of PEA as a dietary supplement, for its anorexic and fat-losing properties, could be considered a valid tool to counteract overweight and obesity in humans and animals and to avoid the onset of consequent comorbidities. Full article
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