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Search Results (403)

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Keywords = intestinal failure (IF)

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15 pages, 1298 KB  
Article
Immuno-Nutritional Profiling for Survival Stratification in Gastrectomized Patients with Malignant Chronic Intestinal Failure
by Konrad Matysiak, Magdalena Szewczuk, Aleksandra Hojdis and Tomasz Banasiewicz
Nutrients 2026, 18(3), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18030451 - 29 Jan 2026
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients who undergo gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma and subsequently develop chronic intestinal failure requiring long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN) represent a clinically vulnerable cohort in whom survival is shaped by profound nutritional depletion and systemic inflammation. Immuno-nutritional biomarkers may support improved [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients who undergo gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma and subsequently develop chronic intestinal failure requiring long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN) represent a clinically vulnerable cohort in whom survival is shaped by profound nutritional depletion and systemic inflammation. Immuno-nutritional biomarkers may support improved risk stratification in this setting. Methods: This retrospective study included adults who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer and developed malignant chronic intestinal failure requiring HPN. Immuno-nutritional status at HPN qualification was evaluated using the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score and the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). Overall survival was analysed using Cox proportional hazards models. LMR discrimination was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis with a Youden-derived cut-off, and differences in AUC were tested using DeLong’s method. Results: Ninety-seven patients met the inclusion criteria. Median overall survival was 176 days. In multivariable analysis, CONUT and LMR were the only independent predictors of survival. Each one-point increase in CONUT was associated with an approximately 70% increase in mortality risk. LMR demonstrated good discriminative ability (AUC 0.795), and a cut-off of 2.083 differentiated survival trajectories. The combined CONUT–LMR model improved prognostic classification, and DeLong’s test confirmed a significant AUC difference compared with single-marker models. Kaplan–Meier curves showed clear separation across CONUT and LMR strata (log-rank p < 0.001). Conclusions: Among patients requiring long-term HPN after gastrectomy for gastric cancer, CONUT and LMR provide complementary prognostic information. Their combined use enhances survival stratification and may support earlier identification of patients with high-risk trajectories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition and Oncologic Outcomes)
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25 pages, 626 KB  
Review
Gut Microbiota-Derived Trimethylamine N-Oxide and NT-proBNP in Heart Failure: A Critical Review of Diagnostic and Prognostic Value
by Natalia Anna Suchecka, Patrycja Popławska, Patrycja Obrycka, Agnieszka Frątczak, Ewa Tokarz, Julia Soczyńska and Sławomir Woźniak
Biomedicines 2026, 14(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14020287 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 147
Abstract
Objective: The study aims to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic efficacy of gut-derived trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) as a molecular biomarker for heart failure (HF) in comparison to the N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide. Background: The clinical value of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [...] Read more.
Objective: The study aims to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic efficacy of gut-derived trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) as a molecular biomarker for heart failure (HF) in comparison to the N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide. Background: The clinical value of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is frequently affected by non-cardiac physiological variables, including adiposity, advanced age, and renal clearance rates. Consequently, there is a compelling need for additional biomarkers. This analysis investigates TMAO as a critical mediator within the gut–heart axis, reflecting systemic inflammation and myocardial fibrosis secondary to intestinal dysbiosis. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed. Keywords such as “trimethylamine N-oxide”, “heart failure”, “heart failure with preserved ejection fraction” and “N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide” were used. The inclusion criteria comprised original research and literature reviews describing the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical utility of TMAO in the context of HF diagnosis and prognosis. Results: The analyzed literature suggests that TMAO functions as an independent predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events, correlating with all-cause mortality and rehospitalization risk across all HF phenotypes. Furthermore, data indicate that using TMAO alongside NT-proBNP measurements may predict patient risk more accurately, particularly in patients where natriuretic peptide interpretation is traditionally obscured by comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Conclusions: Although NT-proBNP remains the gold standard for acute diagnosis, TMAO provides significant value for long-term clinical management. By serving as a metabolic–inflammatory indicator, TMAO complements standard diagnostic panels, offering deeper insights into the prognostic trajectory and the underlying intestinal barrier integrity of patients with HF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heart Failure: New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches, 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 3528 KB  
Article
A Human β-Defensin-Based Recombinant Protein DF2-HSA Ameliorates Cytokine Storm
by Yibo Du, Zhuojun Yu, Weijin Sheng, Yi Li, Lei Hou, Yanbo Zheng, Xiujun Liu and Yongsu Zhen
Cells 2026, 15(2), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15020202 - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 305
Abstract
Cytokine storm is a critical driver of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. Human β-defensin 2 (HBD-2) is the first inducible defensin discovered in human body. Defensin can resist pathogenic microorganisms invading the body through direct bactericidal effect and also modulates [...] Read more.
Cytokine storm is a critical driver of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. Human β-defensin 2 (HBD-2) is the first inducible defensin discovered in human body. Defensin can resist pathogenic microorganisms invading the body through direct bactericidal effect and also modulates acquired immune response. Albumin exhibits immunomodulatory properties and can reduce the level of inflammatory cytokines to improve the systemic inflammatory response. We previously engineered a recombinant fusion protein, DF2-HSA, comprising two HBD-2 molecules linked to human serum albumin. Here, we evaluated its effect on cytokine storm using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine storm murine model (BALB/c athymic mice, female). DF2-HSA reduced the mortality in cytokine storm murine model and prolonged the retention time of HBD-2 in the body. A Luminex assay showed that DF2-HSA reduced the production of multiple inflammatory cytokines in cytokine storm murine model. Evans blue staining showed that DF2-HSA reduced vascular leakage. Transmission electron microscopy showed that DF2-HSA reduced the lung injury of cytokine storm mice. The pathological results showed that DF2-HSA alleviated the lung and small intestine damage of cytokine storm mice. In summary, DF2-HSA effectively inhibits cytokine storms and ameliorates associated tissue damage. Full article
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33 pages, 798 KB  
Review
Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Cardiometabolic HFpEF: Mechanistic Pathways and Nutritional Therapeutic Perspectives
by Antonio Vacca, Gabriele Brosolo, Stefano Marcante, Sabrina Della Mora, Luca Bulfone, Andrea Da Porto, Claudio Pagano, Cristiana Catena and Leonardo A. Sechi
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020321 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 307
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for more than half of the cases of HF worldwide. Among the different phenotypes, cardiometabolic HFpEF has the highest prevalence. Cumulative insults related to cardiometabolic comorbidities—obesity, hypertension and type 2 diabetes—create a milieu of metabolic [...] Read more.
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for more than half of the cases of HF worldwide. Among the different phenotypes, cardiometabolic HFpEF has the highest prevalence. Cumulative insults related to cardiometabolic comorbidities—obesity, hypertension and type 2 diabetes—create a milieu of metabolic derangements, low-grade systemic inflammation (i.e., metainflammation), endothelial dysfunction, and coronary microvascular disease. Emerging data indicate that the gut–heart axis is a potential amplifier of this process. Cardiometabolic comorbidities promote gut dysbiosis, loss of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing taxa, and disruption of the intestinal barrier, leading to endotoxemia and upregulation of pro-inflammatory pathways such as TLR4- and NLRP3-mediated signaling. Concomitantly, beneficial gut-derived metabolites (acetate, propionate, butyrate) decrease, while detrimental metabolites increase (e.g., TMAO), potentially fostering myocardial fibrosis, diastolic dysfunction, and adverse remodeling. SCFAs—acetate, propionate, and butyrate—may exert pleiotropic actions that directly target HFpEF pathophysiology: they may provide a CPT1-independent energy substrate to the failing myocardium, may improve lipid and glucose homeostasis via G protein-coupled receptors and AMPK activation, and may contribute to lower blood pressure and sympathetic tone, reinforce gut barrier integrity, and act as anti-inflammatory and epigenetic modulators through the inhibition of NF-κB, NLRP3, and histone deacetylases. This review summarizes current evidence linking gut microbiota dysfunction to cardiometabolic HFpEF, elucidates the mechanistic role of SCFAs, and discusses nutritional approaches aimed at enhancing their production and activity. Targeting gut–heart axis and SCFAs pathways may represent a biologically plausible and low-risk approach that could help attenuate inflammation and metabolic dysfunctions in patients with cardiometabolic HFpEF, offering novel potential therapeutic targets for their management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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16 pages, 8167 KB  
Article
Overwinter Syndrome in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) Links Enteric Viral Proliferation to Mucosal Disruption via Multiomics Investigation
by Yang Feng, Yi Geng, Senyue Liu, Xiaoli Huang, Chengyan Mou, Han Zhao, Jian Zhou, Qiang Li and Yongqiang Deng
Cells 2026, 15(2), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15020157 - 15 Jan 2026
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Overwinter Syndrome (OWS) affects grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) aquaculture in China, causing high mortality and economic losses under low temperatures. Failure of antibiotic therapies shows limits of the ‘low–temperature–pathogen’ model and shifts focus to mucosal barrier dysfunction and host–microbiome interactions in [...] Read more.
Overwinter Syndrome (OWS) affects grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) aquaculture in China, causing high mortality and economic losses under low temperatures. Failure of antibiotic therapies shows limits of the ‘low–temperature–pathogen’ model and shifts focus to mucosal barrier dysfunction and host–microbiome interactions in OWS. We compared healthy and diseased grass carp collected from the same pond using histopathology, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metagenomics. This integrated approach was used to characterize intestinal structure, microbial composition, and host molecular responses at both taxonomic and functional levels. Results revealed a three-layer barrier failure in OWS fish: the physical barrier was compromised, with structural damage and reduced mucosal index; microbial dysbiosis featured increased richness without changes in diversity or evenness, and expansion of the virobiota, notably uncultured Caudovirales phage; and mucosal immune dysregulation indicated loss of local immune balance. Multi-omics integration identified downregulation of lysosome-related and glycosphingolipid biosynthesis pathways at transcript and protein levels, with disrupted nucleotide metabolism. Overall gut microbial richness, rather than individual taxa abundance, correlated most strongly with host gene changes linked to immunity, metabolism, and epithelial integrity. Although biological replicates were limited by natural outbreak sampling, matched high-depth multi-omics datasets provide exploratory insights into OWS-associated intestinal dysfunction. In summary, OWS entails a cold-triggered breakdown of intestinal barrier integrity and immune homeostasis. This breakdown is driven by a global restructuring of the gut microbiome, which is marked by increased richness, viral expansion, and functional shifts, ultimately resulting in altered host–microbe crosstalk. This ecological perspective informs future mechanistic and applied studies for disease prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Microenvironment)
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12 pages, 1257 KB  
Case Report
Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT)-like Syndrome: A Case Report and Some Considerations on a Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
by Lorenzo Delfino, Sara Moruzzi, Michela Carrillo, Silvia Suardi, Sabrina Genesini, Linda Schönborn, Jan Wesche, Giulia Salandini, Carlotta Spillere, Gabriele Costa, Salvatore Simari, Francesca Pizzolo, Enrico Polati, Giancarlo Mansueto, Giorgio Gandini, Simonetta Friso, Thomas Thiele and Nicola Martinelli
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020257 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Disorders caused by platelet-activating antibodies targeting platelet factor 4 (PF4) are recognized as the cause of severe thrombotic events and are not restricted to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Case Presentation: We report a 67-year-old man with thrombocytopenia and extensive portal-splenic-mesenteric [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Disorders caused by platelet-activating antibodies targeting platelet factor 4 (PF4) are recognized as the cause of severe thrombotic events and are not restricted to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Case Presentation: We report a 67-year-old man with thrombocytopenia and extensive portal-splenic-mesenteric vein thrombosis complicated by intestinal ischemia. Despite intravenous unfractionated heparin (UFH), his condition worsened toward pulmonary embolism, septic shock, and multi-organ failure. Thrombolysis with alteplase was also ineffective. Both thrombophilia testing and autoimmune panels were negative, including those for antiphospholipid syndrome. An anti-PF4 immune thrombotic disorder was hypothesized. Therefore, argatroban was initiated instead of UFH therapy and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) was administered. The platelet count increased and the patient’s clinical condition progressively improved. An anti-PF4/heparin assay on a blood sample collected before IVIG was highly positive. Platelet activation assays did not demonstrate an increased activation after the addition of heparin (the Heparin-Induced Platelet Activation [HIPA] assay was negative) though increased activation was observed with the addition of PF4 (the PF4-Induced Platelet Activation [PIPA] assay was positive), thus defining a VITT-like syndrome. Conclusions: This case report highlights the crucial function of having adequate laboratory facilities available to disentangle different anti-PF4 disorders for an accurate definition of a specific diagnosis, such as VITT-like syndrome, thereby allowing for the most appropriate therapeutic management of these complex pathological conditions. The clinical suspicion of an anti-PF4 immune disorder should be considered in cases of severe, otherwise unexplained, thrombotic events associated with thrombocytopenia. Specific tests like HIPA and PIPA are essential for definitive diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
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16 pages, 1025 KB  
Review
Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Drugs Targeting PANoptosis: A Comprehensive Review
by John K. Triantafillidis and Stavros Karakatsanis
Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010148 - 11 Jan 2026
Viewed by 341
Abstract
Background: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) involves a complex interplay between immune dysregulation and intestinal barrier failure. Traditional views focused on individual cell death pathways, but the emerging concept of PANoptosis—a coordinated inflammatory cell death involving apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis—offers a more holistic understanding [...] Read more.
Background: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) involves a complex interplay between immune dysregulation and intestinal barrier failure. Traditional views focused on individual cell death pathways, but the emerging concept of PANoptosis—a coordinated inflammatory cell death involving apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis—offers a more holistic understanding of IBD pathogenesis. Objective: This review evaluates the role of PANoptosis in IBD, identifies key molecular triggers (such as the ZBP1-ADAR1 axis), and discusses the therapeutic potential of targeting this process. Methods: We analyzed recent literature and clinical trial data regarding programmed cell death (PCD) inhibitors and natural compounds in IBD models. Results: Preclinical data suggest that targeting PANoptotic regulators like RIPK1 and ZBP1 can restore barrier integrity. However, clinical translation remains challenging; for instance, while targeting pyroptosis via IL-1/IL-18 (Anakinra) showed promise in theory, clinical results in IBD have been disappointing. Furthermore, RIPK1 inhibitors such as GSK2982772 have failed to meet primary endpoints in Phase 2 trials. Conclusions: PANoptosis is a “hot” therapeutic target, but successful treatment likely requires combination therapies or “PANoptosome” specific modulators rather than single-pathway inhibition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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17 pages, 3619 KB  
Article
Nobiletin Attenuates Inflammation and Modulates Lipid Metabolism in an In Vitro Model of Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease
by Marta Belka, Aleksandra Gostyńska-Stawna, Karina Sommerfeld-Klatta, Maciej Stawny and Violetta Krajka-Kuźniak
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18010087 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 375
Abstract
Background: Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) is a serious complication in patients receiving parenteral nutrition, often exacerbated by inflammation, lipid overload, and oxidative stress. Nobiletin (NOB), a polymethoxylated flavone, is known for its anti-inflammatory and lipid-regulating properties. Methods: We employed an [...] Read more.
Background: Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) is a serious complication in patients receiving parenteral nutrition, often exacerbated by inflammation, lipid overload, and oxidative stress. Nobiletin (NOB), a polymethoxylated flavone, is known for its anti-inflammatory and lipid-regulating properties. Methods: We employed an in vitro model using THLE-2 human hepatocytes and primary human cholangiocytes exposed to Intralipid (INT) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate IFALD conditions. NOB was tested at non-toxic concentrations (10 and 25 µM) to assess its protective effects. MTT viability assays, multiplex bead-based immunoassays (MAGPIX), RT-qPCR, and Western blotting were used to evaluate changes in inflammation markers, gene expression, and protein signaling. Moreover, ALT and AST activities were used to assess hepatocellular injury. Results: NOB maintained high cell viability in THLE-2 hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, confirming its low cytotoxicity. NOB normalized ALT and AST activities in both tested cell lines, but the effect reached statistical significance only for ALT in cholangiocytes. Under IFALD-like conditions (LPS+INT), NOB significantly preserved metabolic activity in both cell types. In THLE-2 and cholangiocytes, NOB markedly reduced the phosphorylation of pro-inflammatory proteins JNK, NF-κB, and STAT3, indicating a broad inhibition of inflammatory signaling. Moreover, in THLE-2 cells, NOB upregulated lipid metabolism-related genes (PRKAA2, CYP7A1, and ABCA1) and decreased oxidative stress, thereby enhancing the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and increasing SOD1 level, which supports the activation of antioxidant defenses. Conclusions: NOB exhibits hepatoprotective properties under IFALD-like conditions in vitro, likely through modulation of inflammation-related signaling and lipid metabolism pathways. Full article
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24 pages, 846 KB  
Review
Nutritional Strategies for Intestinal Rehabilitation in Children with Short Bowel Syndrome: A Narrative Review
by Inna Spector Cohen, Hadar Moran-Lev, Reut Levi, Hofit Golden and Igor Sukhotnik
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020180 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 500
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Nutritional management is fundamental to intestinal rehabilitation in children with short bowel syndrome (SBS), yet clinical practice remains heterogeneous and largely guided by expert opinion. Enteral nutrition (EN) is the main driver of intestinal adaptation and progression toward enteral autonomy, but optimal [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Nutritional management is fundamental to intestinal rehabilitation in children with short bowel syndrome (SBS), yet clinical practice remains heterogeneous and largely guided by expert opinion. Enteral nutrition (EN) is the main driver of intestinal adaptation and progression toward enteral autonomy, but optimal strategies vary according to residual bowel anatomy, postoperative phase, and feeding tolerance. This review aimed to synthesize available evidence on nutritional strategies for pediatric SBS, with a focus on EN initiation, advancement, composition, and outcomes. Methods: A structured literature search was conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), SciELO, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 1975 and October 2025. Pediatric clinical studies addressing nutritional management in SBS were eligible. Study selection followed predefined PICO criteria, with independent screening and quality appraisal by two reviewers, in accordance with PRISMA-ScR reporting standards. Results: One hundred and thirty pediatric clinical studies were included, the majority of which were observational, with few randomized controlled trials. EN consistently emerged as a key determinant of intestinal adaptation and progression toward enteral autonomy across all phases of SBS. Outcomes were strongly influenced by residual bowel anatomy, presence of the ileocecal valve and colon, and feeding tolerance. Substantial variability was observed in feeding routes, modalities, diet composition, and advancement strategies. Conclusions: EN is a cornerstone of intestinal rehabilitation in pediatric SBS; however, current recommendations rely mainly on observational evidence. Prospective multicenter studies are needed to define optimal nutritional strategies and strengthen evidence-based practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Diseases)
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16 pages, 580 KB  
Review
Mechanistic Analysis of Fisetin in Liver Diseases and Its Potential Therapeutic Application in IFALD—A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
by Marta Belka, Maciej Stawny, Michal M. Masternak and Violetta Krajka-Kuźniak
Nutrients 2026, 18(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18010102 - 28 Dec 2025
Viewed by 760
Abstract
Fisetin (3,3′,4′,7-tetrahydroxyflavone) is a naturally occurring flavonol in fruits and vegetables. It exhibits diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, senolytic, and lipid-lowering properties. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying fisetin’s hepatoprotective effects and evaluates its potential application in Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease [...] Read more.
Fisetin (3,3′,4′,7-tetrahydroxyflavone) is a naturally occurring flavonol in fruits and vegetables. It exhibits diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, senolytic, and lipid-lowering properties. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying fisetin’s hepatoprotective effects and evaluates its potential application in Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease (IFALD), a severe complication associated with total parenteral nutrition (TPN). IFALD is characterized by inflammation, cholestasis, steatosis, oxidative stress, and dysregulated lipid and bile acid metabolism. Fisetin modulates several key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, Nrf2, AMPK, and SIRT1, leading to reduced inflammatory cytokine expression, enhanced antioxidant defenses, and improved lipid homeostasis. Fisetin shows potential anti-fibrotic and microbiota-modulating effects. More importantly, fisetin is recognized as a potent senolytic agent, selectively activating pro-apoptotic pathways in senescent cells, which are known sources of inflammation and tissue damage. However, despite its promising pharmacological profile, the poor bioavailability of fisetin remains a significant limitation, particularly for parenteral use. Emerging drug delivery systems such as liposomes and nanoparticles offer potential solutions. Given its broad spectrum of beneficial effects and favorable safety profile, fisetin represents a compelling candidate for future studies in the prevention and management of IFALD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytonutrients in Diseases of Affluence)
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17 pages, 892 KB  
Systematic Review
Transabdominal Intestinal Ultrasonography in Monitoring and Predicting Outcomes in Ulcerative Colitis—A Systematic Review
by Sabrina Josefsen, Tobias Reinhold Larsen, Rune Wilkens, Jakob Benedict Seidelin, Johan Burisch, Mohamed Attauabi and Jacob Tveiten Bjerrum
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15010035 - 20 Dec 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is increasingly used to monitor ulcerative colitis (UC), but its predictive value remains unclear. This systematic review evaluated the ability of IUS parameters and scores to predict short- and long-term treatment response, remission, and adverse outcomes in hospitalized and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is increasingly used to monitor ulcerative colitis (UC), but its predictive value remains unclear. This systematic review evaluated the ability of IUS parameters and scores to predict short- and long-term treatment response, remission, and adverse outcomes in hospitalized and outpatient UC populations. Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE and Embase were searched for prospective studies assessing IUS as a predictor of clinical or endoscopic response, remission, relapse, or adverse outcomes in adult UC. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and QUADAS-2 assessment. Results: Eighteen prospective studies were included: eleven outpatient studies and seven involving hospitalized patients treated with intravenous corticosteroids (IVCS). In hospitalized patients, bowel wall thickness (BWT) was the most consistent predictor of treatment failure, rescue therapy, colectomy, and clinical response. Baseline BWT showed variable performance, but once IVCS was initiated, early BWT change within 48–72 h was the strongest marker of disease trajectory. Non-responders had higher BWT and smaller reductions. A BWT ≥ 4 mm, absolute reduction ≤ 1 mm, or relative reduction ≤ 20% at 48 h reliably identified patients needing rescue therapy (area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.77 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–0.74), 0.71 (95% CI 0.56–0.86), and 0.74 (95% CI 0.60–0.88)). Colectomy risk was similarly predicted: BWT < 3 mm at 48 h was associated with no colectomies, whereas BWT ≥ 4 mm or persistently elevated BWT at day 6 markedly increased risk (Odds ratio (OR) 9.5-fold (95% CI 1.4–64.0) and OR 8.3 (95% CI 1.7–40.0), respectively). Other sonographic features (loss of haustration, increased vascularity) added supplementary but less consistent value. In outpatients, BWT also demonstrated the strongest predictive accuracy. BWT ≤ 3.6 mm at 2 weeks and <3.0 mm at 6 weeks were associated with early endoscopic remission (area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.87 (95% CI 0.71–1.00) and 0.82 (95% CI 0.63–1.00), respectively). Dynamic changes with ≥23–25% relative reduction predicted clinical or endoscopic response (AUROC of 0.81 (95% CI 0.61–1.00) and OR of 13.9 (95% CI 1.13–1986.85), respectively). Persistent BWT > 3.5 mm or minimal reduction (<20% or <1 mm) indicated a low likelihood of long-term remission. Composite vascularity-based indices, particularly the Milan Ultrasound Criteria (MUC), strengthened prediction: MUC ≤ 4.3 or ≥2-point reduction at 12 weeks predicted long-term remission (AUROC 0.88 (95% CI 0.750–0.952) and 0.82 (95% CI 0.68–0.91), respectively), while MUC ≥ 7.7 indicated high risk of treatment failure or colectomy (AUROC 0.77 (95% CI: 0.73–0.82)). Conclusions: Across clinical settings, BWT consistently emerged as the strongest IUS predictor of UC treatment outcomes. Early BWT change within 48–72 h in hospitalized patients and absolute BWT values at 2–6 weeks in outpatients showed high predictive accuracy for response, remission, and colectomy. Composite indices incorporating vascularity further improved prediction. These findings support the incorporation of IUS into early treatment-response algorithms and underscore the need for standardized cut-offs and multicenter validation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammatory Bowel Disease: From Diagnosis to Treatment—2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 1982 KB  
Article
Repositioning Imipramine for Antiparasitic Effects Against Giardia lamblia
by Xareni Zinereth Herrera-Valero, Sendar Daniel Nery-Flores, Filiberto Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez, Lizeth Guadalupe Campos-Múzquiz, Sandra Cecilia Esparza-González, Raúl Rodríguez-Herrera and Lissethe Palomo-Ligas
Drugs Drug Candidates 2025, 4(4), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc4040056 - 16 Dec 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Giardia lamblia is an intestinal protozoan responsible for giardiasis, a globally prevalent parasitic disease. Current therapeutic options, including nitroimidazoles and benzimidazoles, have increasing treatment failures due to resistance, adverse reactions, and patient non-compliance. Drug repositioning offers a cost-effective strategy for identifying [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Giardia lamblia is an intestinal protozoan responsible for giardiasis, a globally prevalent parasitic disease. Current therapeutic options, including nitroimidazoles and benzimidazoles, have increasing treatment failures due to resistance, adverse reactions, and patient non-compliance. Drug repositioning offers a cost-effective strategy for identifying new antigiardial agents. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antiparasitic effects and possible mechanisms of action of the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine against G. lamblia trophozoites. Methods: Trophozoites were exposed to increasing concentrations of imipramine (25–125 µM). Growth inhibition and adhesion capacity were quantified using cell counts. Apoptosis- or necrosis-like death was evaluated through Annexin V/PI staining. The expression and distribution of α-tubulin and lipid rafts were analyzed by immunofluorescence microscopy. Finally, the effect of the drug on encystment efficiency was assessed in vitro. Results: Imipramine inhibited G. lamblia trophozoite growth in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 of 42.31 µM at 48 h. The drug significantly reduced adhesion capacity (>90% at 125 µM) and induced apoptosis-like cell death, as evidenced by Annexin V positivity. Immunofluorescence revealed disruption of α-tubulin distribution and lipid raft organization, accompanied by morphological rounding. Moreover, encystment efficiency decreased in a concentration-dependent mode, suggesting interference in the differentiation process. Conclusions: This investigation describes, for the first time, the antigiardial potential of imipramine, which alters cytoskeletal organization, membrane microdomains, and differentiation pathways, ultimately leading to apoptosis-like cell death. These findings position this compound as a promising lead structure and support further exploration of tricyclic antidepressants as scaffolds for the development and optimization of new antiparasitic agents, as well as future studies on their molecular targets and in vivo efficacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Anti-Parasite Drug Discovery)
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11 pages, 522 KB  
Article
The Efficiency of Taurolidine Lock Solution in Preventing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections in Children with Intestinal Failure
by Betül Aksoy, Şenay Onbaşı Karabağ, Yeliz Çağan Appak, Selen Güler, Sinem Kahveci, Dilek Yılmaz and Maşallah Baran
Medicina 2025, 61(12), 2188; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61122188 - 10 Dec 2025
Viewed by 480
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are one of the most severe complications in children with intestinal failure (IF) who require long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). Taurolidine–citrate solution (TCS), with proven antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, has been proposed as a promising alternative to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are one of the most severe complications in children with intestinal failure (IF) who require long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). Taurolidine–citrate solution (TCS), with proven antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, has been proposed as a promising alternative to heparin locks for preventing infection. The aim is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the TCS in reducing the rates of CRBSI and pathogen-specific infections in pediatric patients with indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs) who are receiving PN. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 48 pediatric IF patients treated at an intestinal rehabilitation and transplantation center in Türkiye. Patients received either TCS or heparinized saline (0.9% saline solution containing 100 IU of heparin) as a catheter lock. Infection data were extracted from medical records and expressed as events per 1000 catheter days. Group comparisons were performed using non-parametric tests, and Poisson regression was applied to calculate rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Adjusted rate ratios were obtained from a Poisson regression model that included the following variables: age, sex, diagnosis category, ostomy status, catheter type, and follow-up duration. Log(catheter-days) was incorporated as an offset term. Overdispersion was assessed and not detected. Results: The crude CRBSI rate was lower in the TCS group than in the heparinized saline group (29.4 vs. 42.8 per 1000 catheter days), though this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.383). However, after adjustment by Poisson regression, TCS use was significantly associated with reduced infection rates (adjusted RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.70–0.87, p < 0.001). TCS use was also significantly associated with reduced rates of Gram-positive (RR = 0.78, p = 0.006), Gram-negative (RR = 0.48, p < 0.001) and fungal (RR = 0.63, p < 0.001) infections. No adverse events were observed among the TCS group. Conclusions: Standardized TCS lock therapy effectively and safely reduces CRBSIs in pediatric patients with IF, particularly those caused by Gram-negative and fungal organisms. These results support the use of TCS as a prophylactic option for preventing infection in long-term CVC use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatology)
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20 pages, 743 KB  
Review
Heart Failure and Cognitive Impairment Through the Lens of the Gut Microbiome: A Narrative Review
by Ali Reza Rahmani, Seyed Avid Madani, Ethan Aminov, Lasha Gogokhia, Travis Bench and Andreas Kalogeropoulos
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(12), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15120595 - 3 Dec 2025
Viewed by 1072
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) affects over 55 million individuals globally, with prevalence projected to exceed 11 million in the United States by 2050 and is increasingly recognized as a systemic disorder extending beyond hemodynamic dysfunction to encompass profound alterations in neural and gut physiology. [...] Read more.
Heart failure (HF) affects over 55 million individuals globally, with prevalence projected to exceed 11 million in the United States by 2050 and is increasingly recognized as a systemic disorder extending beyond hemodynamic dysfunction to encompass profound alterations in neural and gut physiology. Cognitive impairment affects nearly half of HF patients and represents a major determinant of morbidity, self-care capacity, and mortality. Recent advances suggest that the gut microbiome serves as a pivotal intermediary in the heart–brain crosstalk, influencing neurocognitive outcomes through inflammatory, metabolic, and neurohumoral pathways. Dysbiosis in HF disrupts intestinal barrier integrity, facilitating translocation of endotoxins and microbial metabolites such as trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bile acids, which in turn modulate neuroinflammation, cerebral perfusion, and neuronal signaling. The gut–heart–brain axis provides an integrative framework linking HF and cognitive impairment pathophysiology through dysbiosis-driven systemic inflammation and metabolite dysregulation. Gut-derived biomarkers and microbiome-targeted interventions represent promising strategies for detection of early alterations and precision treatment, highlighting the urge for prospective, multi-omics studies to establish causality and therapeutic efficacy. This review synthesizes current evidence connecting gut microbiome dysbiosis and metabolite alterations to both HF and cognitive impairment pathophysiology and proposes translational strategies for integrating microbiome-targeted therapies in HF patients with cognitive dysfunction. Full article
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12 pages, 412 KB  
Article
Epidemiological Characteristics of Pediatric Patients with Intestinal Failure in Spain: Data from the REPAFI Registry
by Marta Germán-Díaz, Rocío González-Sacristán, Vanessa Cabello, Javier Blasco-Alonso, Alejandro Rodríguez, Mariela de los Santos, José Vicente Arcos-Machancoses, Mercedes Murray-Hurtado, Ruth García-Romero, Rafael Galera-Martínez, Cristina Martín-Arriscado, Susana Redecillas-Ferreiro, José Manuel Moreno-Villares and Esther Ramos-Boluda
Nutrients 2025, 17(23), 3768; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17233768 - 30 Nov 2025
Viewed by 446
Abstract
Background: The paucity of data on the epidemiology of chronic intestinal failure (CIF) in pediatric patients is a matter of particular concern. The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive description of the epidemiology of CIF in Spain, encompassing its incidence, [...] Read more.
Background: The paucity of data on the epidemiology of chronic intestinal failure (CIF) in pediatric patients is a matter of particular concern. The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive description of the epidemiology of CIF in Spain, encompassing its incidence, geographical distribution, underlying causes, and demographic and clinical characteristics. These findings are based on data collected from the multicentre REPAFI registry. Methods: This is a national, multicentre, ambispective cohort study including patients who initiated home parenteral nutrition (HPN) between January 2015 and January 2025. The data collected encompassed various demographic details, underlying diagnoses, the type of HPN utilized, and the nutritional status of the subjects at the commencement of HPN treatment. Results: The study included 163 patients (55.2% male) from 10 hospitals. The principal cause of CIF was short bowel syndrome (SBS) in 77.3% of cases, followed by severe motility disorders (12.9%), congenital enteropathies (CE) (5.5%), and other causes (4.3%). Among patients diagnosed with SBS, necrotizing enterocolitis was identified as the most prevalent underlying cause (32.5%). The most prevalent anatomical configuration was identified as type 2 (jejuno-colic anastomosis). A significant proportion, amounting to 62.7%, exhibited a lack of an ileocecal valve (ICV), while 23% demonstrated a residual bowel length (RBL) of less than 15 centimetres. The median RBL was 35 cm (IQR: 15.7–52.5). Patients diagnosed with SBS exhibited a lower gestational age and birthweight compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). Patients diagnosed with SBS and CE exhibited a lower mean age at the onset of HPN (p < 0.05). Furthermore, patients with CE exhibited the lowest weight-for-age Z-score at the initiation of HPN (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The present study provides the first epidemiological data on the state of pediatric CIF in Spain. The most prevalent cause of CIF was SBS, with a younger age at the initiation of HPN in comparison to other published studies. Patients with CE exhibited the most severe degree of malnutrition at the initiation of HPN. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition Methodology & Assessment)
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