Search Results (336)

Iodine deficiency remains a global public health concern. Preliminary studies confirmed that cauliflower can serve as a carrier for iodine salts. However, the influence of its endogenous goitrogenic compounds (phenolic compounds and glucosinolates) on iodine utilisation is not fully understood. This study aimed to assess the potential for enhancing cauliflower’s effectiveness as an iodine carrier through various thermal pre-treatment methods, and to examine how these methods, along with the plant’s endogenous goitrogens, affect iodine stability. Cauliflower was cooked by steaming or boiling (covered or uncovered) and fortified with KI or KIO₃. Iodine content, selected phenolic compounds (sinigrin, progoitrin, glucobrassicin, gluconapin, indole-3-carbinol) and antioxidant activity (ABTS^●+, DPPH^●) were analysed immediately after fortification and after 90 days of storage at 4, 21, or 40 °C under controlled humidity and darkness. The results showed that both the heat-treatment method and storage temperature significantly affected iodine retention and were associated with changes in goitrogenic compounds and antioxidant capacity. Cauliflower demonstrated favourable stability as a carrier of iodine, although phytochemical composition influenced fortification outcomes. These findings suggest that the initial heat treatment of cauliflower significantly affects its effectiveness as a matrix for iodine fortification, likely due to differences in the content of goitrogenic compounds. Full article

Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis and is particularly critical during pregnancy, where excess and mainly its deficiencies can impair fetal neurodevelopment and increase maternal complications. Bromine has also gained attention due to its potential to interfere with iodine metabolism and contribute to adverse health effects when present in excess. Monitoring iodine and bromine in biological samples, especially urine and serum, is therefore important for assessing thyroid function and population health. This work presents a simple and robust ICP-MS method for simultaneous determination of bromine and iodine in urine and serum. The procedure uses a 20-fold dilution with 10 mmol L⁻¹ ammonia containing 0.1% (w/w) EDTA-2Na, ensuring solution stability, minimizing sample-to-sample variability, and eliminating the need for matrix-matched calibration. EDTA-2Na effectively prevents precipitation of metal species at high pH, avoiding blockages in the sample introduction system. Method accuracy was confirmed through certified reference materials and spike-recovery experiments, both showing suitable agreement for the two analytes. Precision was consistently strong (RSD < 6%), and low detection limits were achieved (0.78 μg L⁻¹ for Br and 0.24 μg L⁻¹ for I). The use of a high-efficiency nebulizer enabled analysis with only 50 µL of sample, making the method suitable for limited-volume specimens. Overall, this approach provides a sensitive, accurate, and practical solution for large-scale population studies and clinical applications. Full article

Iodine deficiency is the leading preventable cause of neurological damage worldwide. Dairy foods represent an important dietary iodine source. This study aimed to assess iodine concentration in milk, ricotta cheese, and yogurt, and to evaluate their contribution toward the recommended daily iodine intake. Whole pasteurized milk (WM; n = 12), partially skimmed pasteurized milk (PM; n = 21), skimmed pasteurized milk (SM; n = 7), ricotta cheese (RC; n = 26), whole yogurt (WY; n = 13), and low-fat yogurt (LY; n = 15) were purchased in local stores. Samples were analyzed through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for iodine quantification. After removing outliers, the final dataset comprised 11 WM, 19 PM, 7 SM, 26 RC, 13 WY and 15 LY samples. Data were investigated through a mixed model with iodine concentration as the dependent variable, product type as fixed effect, and brand as random effect. Low-fat yogurt exhibited the greatest estimated iodine concentration (293.76 µg/kg), while SM and WM exhibited the lowest (211.92 and 197.63 µg/kg, respectively). Based on these results, a serving of milk (250 g) would provide 31.82–39.08% of the average daily iodine requirement, a serving of ricotta (125 g) 21.66%, and a yogurt jar (125 g) 21.54–24.11%. These findings confirm the nutritional relevance of dairy products as primary iodine sources. Full article

Background/Objectives: Excessive sugar, fat, and salt intake heighten susceptibility to metabolic syndrome and other chronic metabolic conditions. Biofortification (i.e., enhancing the nutritional content of crops) emerges as a sustainable new approach to address dietary deficiencies. Methods: This study evaluated the impact of an acute nutritional intervention in a controlled, randomized, single-blind trial involving healthy adults aged 50–79 years, in late middle age and early older adulthood utilizing biofortified vegetables enriched with iodine and molybdenum, aimed to explore short-term biochemical responses to the consumption of iodine- and molybdenum-biofortified lettuce. The study was designed as a controlled dietary intervention including both a biofortified and a non-biofortified lettuce group, matched for handling and composition. It was powered to detect short-term biochemical responses, providing initial insights into the physiological impact of micronutrient biofortification. Dietary intake was carefully monitored throughout the 12-day period to control for confounding dietary effects. Results: The intervention was associated with decreased plasma levels of triglycerides, AST, and ALT, and increased plasma levels of HDL-cholesterol and the satiety hormone PYY, suggesting enhanced metabolic regulation. Conclusions: These biochemical markers reflect early metabolic adaptations that may inform future research on the metabolic impact of micronutrient biofortification. This study also highlights the potential of crop biofortification as a sustainable, strategy to enhance the nutrient density of vegetables within controlled dietary patterns. Full article

Micronutrient deficiencies, also known as “hidden hunger,” remain a pervasive public health issue in low- and middle-income countries, particularly among vulnerable populations within these countries. The main drivers of these deficiencies are poverty, limited dietary diversity, weak nutritional strategies, poor health service delivery and general health access barriers. This review assesses the prevalence, drivers, and consequences of selected micronutrient deficiencies: iron, iodine, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin D, within the scope of undernutrition, food insecurity, and socioeconomic inequity. The consequences associated with these deficiencies include stunted growth, increased susceptibility to illness, poor cognitive and social functioning, and deepened poverty. The primary strategies to address these deficiencies include dietary diversification, supplement provision, biofortification, and the production of fortified foods. Barriers to progress include the high cost of food, weak healthcare infrastructure, low educational levels, and ineffective policy implementation. Integrated food systems, personalised nutrition, and innovative food technologies have the potential to address both nutritional and health inequities. Addressing barriers to safe and nutritious food and healthcare systems in order to address health inequities requires integrated, multisectoral planning and contextual policy. Improving individual health outcomes is crucial, but addressing micronutrient deficiencies has a ripple effect throughout society, enabling economic development through poverty reduction and increased productivity. Full article

Background: Iodine deficiency remains a significant public health concern worldwide and may contribute to metabolic disorders beyond thyroid dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that nutritional factors, such as vitamin A, may influence the health effects of iodine deficiency, yet population-based evidence remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the associations between iodine deficiency and cardiometabolic risk factors (blood pressure, glucose, and lipids) and to explore whether these associations are different between adults with different vitamin A levels. Methods: A total of 4723 adults (1895 males and 2828 females) were included in this cross-sectional study. Participants were categorized based on iodine status and serum vitamin A levels. Demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical indicators were assessed through standardized examinations. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations between iodine deficiency and continuous (systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], fasting blood glucose [FBG], total cholesterol [TC], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], triglycerides [TGs]) and binary outcomes (hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia), with stratified analyses by gender, age, and vitamin A status. Results: Iodine deficiency was significantly associated with higher SBP (β = 2.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.00–3.77), DBP (β = 1.08, 0.55–1.60), FBG (β = 0.06, 0.01–0.12) and TC (β = 0.05, 0.00–0.10). The odds of hypertension (odds ratio [OR] = 1.41, 1.23–1.63) and hyperglycemia (OR = 1.39, 1.17–1.65) were also increased. Stratified analyses indicated that these associations were more pronounced among participants with vitamin A deficiency than those with sufficient vitamin A. In this subgroup, iodine deficiency was positively associated with FBG (β = 0.14, 0.03–0.25), TC (β = 0.08, 0.00–0.15), and hyperglycemia (OR = 1.35, 1.04–1.76). Conclusions: The findings suggest that the association of iodine deficiency with adverse cardiometabolic risk factors may be stronger in individuals with concurrent vitamin A deficiency. This highlights the potential value of integrated nutritional assessments and supports the need for longitudinal studies to confirm these interactions and assess the effects of combined micronutrient supplementation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Iodine plays a central role in thyroid hormone synthesis and neurodevelopment. Its deficiency and excessive intake have been identified as risk factors for thyroid diseases and their consequences. The objective of the study was to analyze dietary iodine intake (dIi) and the factors that determine its intake among post-primary school students from northern Poland, specifically those from coastal areas and lake districts. Methods: The study was conducted on a sub-national sample of 3102 adolescents (1751 females and 1351 males) aged 14–20 years, recruited from schools located in the Northern (N) and North-Western (N-W) macroregions of Poland. Dietary iodine intake was assessed using the Iodine Dietary Intake Evaluation-Food Frequency Questionnaire. Based on the data obtained, the adequacy of the intake of this micronutrient was assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk, U Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests and Spearman’s correlation analysis. Results: The median dIi was 66.83 µg daily, including 53 µg from natural sources. This value was below the recommended dietary allowance of 150 µg and below the estimated average requirement of 95 µg of iodine in 85% and 68% of the study participants, respectively. Milk and dairy products provided the highest iodine intake (26.4%). Iodine-enriched salt (16.2%) also significantly impacted iodine intake. However, 60% of respondents did not use iodized salt. The median iodine levels from natural sources were found to be low (dairy products: 15.02 µg, fish and fish products: 2.38 µg, and eggs: 2.10 µg). Dietary iodine intake was significantly lower in adolescents from the N than N-W macroregion of Poland (median: 65.63 vs. µg daily, 74.2 p < 0.001). However, dIi did not depend on sex (p = 0.10), age (p = 0.80), school location (p = 0.80), body mass index classification (p = 0.76), or iodine supplementation (p = 0.90). Conclusions: The study results indicate that insufficient iodine intake among adolescents in northern Poland can be attributed to a limited intake of iodine from natural food sources. A pressing need exists to closely monitor iodine intake and status among Polish adolescents and to implement nutritional education, focusing on the role of iodine, potential risks associated with iodine deficiency, and dietary sources of iodine. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite salt iodization, iodine deficiency during pregnancy and lactation is re-emerging in many industrialized countries, necessitating an evaluation of the role of dairy in supporting iodine status during these critical periods. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Ten databases were searched through March 2025 using ProQuest Dialog™ (Version 75.0). Study quality was assessed using either the Quality Evaluation for Observational Studies tool or the Risk of Bias 2 tool, depending on study design. Random-effects models were applied, with certainty of evidence rated using the GRADE framework. Publication bias, sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analyses were also performed. Results: Fifty-one publications met the eligibility criteria, including 50 publications of observational studies and 1 publication of a randomized controlled trial (RCT), with most studies conducted on pregnant women. Higher dairy intake was associated with significantly greater urinary iodine concentration (UIC), (23 studies; standardized mean difference: 0.326; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.228, 0.424; p < 0.001; I² = 57.31%; low-certainty), and significantly lower odds of iodine deficiency (11 studies; odds ratio: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.70; p < 0.001; I² = 0%; moderate-certainty). Associations were stronger in studies conducted during later pregnancy, in higher-quality studies, and when the dairy food was specifically milk. Dairy contributed to ~27% of iodine intake from foods. Breast milk iodine concentration (BMIC) findings were inconsistent, though in one RCT, iodine-fortified milk improved BMIC and UIC. Conclusions: Dairy intake supports adequate iodine status during pregnancy and lactation. RCTs would be valuable in further investigating the role of dairy in supporting iodine status, particularly in lactating women. (PROSPERO CRD420251054576) Full article

Thyroid diseases in horses are rare and pose challenges for veterinarians due to the complexity of clinical and diagnostic approaches. This retrospective case series describes cases of equine thyroid disease in a referral hospital population. Files of horses examined for suspected thyroid disease at an equine university clinic between 2009 and 2024 were reviewed. Data from nine horses examined for suspected thyroid disease, including signalment, clinical presentation, laboratory results, imaging findings, fine needle aspirates, biopsies, diagnoses, and treatments, were summarised. Diagnoses included thyroid adenoma (n = 6), multiple thyroid cysts (possibly thyroid adenoma (n = 1)), non-thyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS, n = 1), and iodine deficiency goitre (n = 1). Diagnostic modalities varied, with, besides manual palpation performed in every patient, basal thyroid hormone measurement and ultrasonography being the most common. Low serum iodine concentrations were noted in four horses, yet iodine supplementation was inconsistently applied. Hemithyroidectomy was performed in four horses, enabling histopathological diagnosis (three out of four). Despite being rare, thyroid diseases in horses require consistent and thorough diagnostic approaches, including imaging, laboratory, and histopathological examinations. Improved screening tools and research could enhance the diagnostic accuracy and management of equine thyroid disorders. Full article

Background: Although the micronutrients (vitamins and trace minerals) essential for growth and normal physiological function are obtained from the diet, a substantial fraction of the human population is deficient in one or more micronutrients due to inadequate nutrition and/or malabsorption. Methods: This narrative review examines evidence that airborne micronutrients (‘aeronutrients’) are readily absorbed by the lungs, and preclinical and clinical evidence that inhaled iodine and vitamins A, B12 and D can enter the bloodstream. Results: Inhaled vitamin B12 resolves the symptoms and haematological features of pernicious anaemia with a bioavailability comparable to intramuscular injections and superior to oral formulations. Inhaled nebulised vitamin A restores serum levels in children with retinol deficiency. Randomised controlled trials have reported that inhalation of nebulised preparations of vitamins A, B12, magnesium and zinc are well tolerated and not associated with adverse health effects. Aeronutrient formulations have untapped potential for the therapeutic treatment of nutritional deficits, particularly in individuals with malabsorption or a low tolerance of injections. Aeronutrient therapy should be regarded as a medical intervention and be regulated accordingly, with efficacy and safety supported by scientific evidence, unlike the ‘vitamin vapes’ marketed by the wellness industry. Conclusions: Before this potential can be realised, a regulatory framework will need to be developed for aeronutrients. The high effectiveness of the pulmonary route introduces concerns regarding overdosing and toxicity which can best be addressed by categorising these formulations as prescription drugs that require regular monitoring of nutritional and health status. Full article

Micronutrient deficiencies are not always present in individuals independently and may occur in association with other deficiency processes. Objective: Verify the association between the nutritional status of iodine and that of iron, selenium, and zinc in population studies. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out in Medline, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases, without date and language restrictions, using English search terms and their synonyms. The search terms were joined by the Boolean operator AND while the respective synonyms were connected by OR following the PRISMA guidelines. Results: A total of 40 articles were included. The studies were published between 1993 and 2025, mostly involving both sexes and the main age groups were children and adolescents. Among the micronutrients analyzed, selenium stood out, being evaluated in 55.0% (n = 22) of the studies, followed by iron in 37.5% (n = 15) and zinc in 27.5% (n = 11). The most commonly used methods for assessing nutritional status were serum selenium, followed by urinary selenium. For iron, hemoglobin, ferritin, and serum iron were used in 73.3% (n = 11), 60.0% (n = 9), and 46.7% (n = 7) of the studies, respectively. For zinc, serum concentration was the most frequently used method; however, in one study, urinary zinc was evaluated. Overall, the nutritional status of iodine was associated with that of selenium, iron, and zinc, although this trend was not observed in some studies. Conclusions: The coexistence of deficiency processes in an individual still needs to be further elucidated. Combined strategies that effectively combat, prevent, and treat these micronutrient deficiencies must consider the possible interactions between them. Full article

Iodine is an essential micronutrient that is required for thyroid hormone (TH) synthesis. However, adequate maternal thyroid function is critical for fetal growth and neurodevelopment. Pregnancy increases iodine requirements due to enhanced renal clearance, higher maternal TH production, and transplacental transfer, making pregnant women especially vulnerable to iodine deficiency. In this review, we examine the molecular mechanisms of TH synthesis and regulation, placental transport and metabolism, and the physiological adaptations of thyroid function during gestation. We also analyze the clinical and public health consequences of iodine imbalances, ranging from deficiency to excess. Evidence indicates that mild iodine deficiency—which is common even in developed countries—can lead to maternal thyroid overstimulation, increased thyroglobulin levels, altered T3/T4 ratios, and enlarged thyroid volume, while severe deficiency results in maternal and fetal hypothyroidism with irreversible neurocognitive impairment in the offspring. Conversely, excessive iodine intake may impair fetal thyroid function through mechanisms such as the Wolff–Chaikoff effect. In conclusion, ensuring balanced iodine intake through iodized salt, supplementation, and routine thyroid monitoring during pregnancy is essential to protect maternal health and optimize early neurodevelopment. Full article

Background: Obesity has been proposed as a risk factor for differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), though findings in the literature remain conflicting. While some studies suggest an association between elevated body mass index (BMI) and thyroid malignancy, others attribute this link to diagnostic bias. The Calabria region in Southern Italy, historically affected by iodine deficiency and endemic goiter, offers a valuable population for investigating this relationship. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between obesity and clinical, sonographic, and cytological characteristics of thyroid nodules in a Calabrian cohort undergoing fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Methods: This retrospective observational study included 1192 patients evaluated at a single endocrine referral center between 2015 and 2024. Patients were stratified by BMI (<30 vs. ≥30 kg/m²). Demographic, biochemical, ultrasound, and cytological data were collected and analyzed. Cytological results were classified according to the SIAPEC 2014 system. Results: Obese patients had significantly larger thyroid nodules in terms of anteroposterior and transverse diameters, as well as overall volume (p < 0.05). However, the distribution of high-risk cytological categories (TIR 3B, TIR 4, and TIR 5) did not differ significantly between obese and non-obese patients (9.4% in both groups). Multivariate analysis confirmed that BMI was not an independent predictor of malignancy risk (OR 0.988; p = 0.723), whereas younger age was inversely associated with malignancy. Conclusions: Obesity appears to influence thyroid nodule size but does not constitute an independent risk factor for cytological malignancy. BMI should not influence indications for FNAB or subsequent treatment decisions. Thyroid nodule management should instead rely on ultrasound risk stratification and cytological findings. Special attention should be given to younger patients as they may carry a higher malignancy risk. Full article

Iodine deficiency remains a significant nutritional problem, which stimulates the search for sustainable approaches to biofortification of vegetable crops. The aim of the work was to develop a “smart” bio-iodine fertilizer based on the organoiodide complex 1-carboxy-2-phenylethan-1-aminium iodide 2-azaniumyl-3-phenylpropanoate (PPI) and highly porous biochar from agro-waste, assessing its efficiency on the parsley model. PPI was synthesized and characterized (IR/UV spectroscopy, thermal analysis), and biochar was obtained by KOH activation and studied by low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (S_BET) methods, as well as standard physico-chemical characterization. The granulated composition PPI + biochar (BIOF) was tested in pot experiments in comparison with KI and control. The biomass of leaves and roots, iodine and organic nitrogen content, and antioxidant indices (ascorbic acid, total polyphenols, antioxidant activity) were assessed. BIOF provided a significant increase in yield and nutrition: leaf mass reached 86.55 g/plant versus 77.72 g/plant with KI and 65.04 g/plant in the control; root mass—up to 8.25 g/plant (p < 0.05). Iodine content in leaves and roots increased to 11.86 and 13.23 mg/kg (d.w.), respectively, while organic nitrogen levels increased simultaneously (57.37 and 36.63 mg/kg). A significant increase in the antioxidant status was noted (ascorbic acid 36.46 mg/100 g dry weight; antioxidant activity 44.48 mg GA/g; polyphenols 23.79 mg GA/g). The presented data show that the combination of PPI with activated biochar forms an effective platform for controlled supply of iodine to plants, increasing the yield and functional qualities of products; the prospects for implementation are associated with field trials and dosage optimization. Full article

Background: Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is commonly treated with radioactive iodine (RAI), but resistance to RAI remains a significant clinical challenge. The molecular mechanisms driving dedifferentiation and RAI refractoriness, particularly in BRAF^V600E-mutated tumors, are not fully understood. Methods: RNA sequencing was conducted on BRAF^V600E-mutated DTC and RAIR-DTC tissue samples to identify differentially expressed genes. Gadd45B was identified as significantly downregulated in RAIR-DTC. Functional studies including overexpression and knockdown experiments were performed in thyroid cancer cell lines and xenograft models. Downstream targets, including MAP3K4 and MYCBP, were evaluated through co-immunoprecipitation, luciferase assays, and Western blot. The therapeutic efficacy of recombinant Gadd45B protein in combination with BRAF^V600E and TERT inhibitors was assessed in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Results: Gadd45B overexpression suppressed MAPK pathway activity by interacting with MAP3K4 and downregulated c-MYC stability through competition with MYCBP. These interactions enhanced the expression of iodine-metabolism genes (NIS, TPO, Tg), increased RAI uptake, and reversed tumor dedifferentiation. In vivo, Gadd45B restoration reduced tumor burden and improved RAI uptake. Combined treatment with Gadd45B protein, PLX4720, and BIBR1532 produced synergistic therapeutic effects in PDX models. Conclusions: Gadd45B plays a pivotal role in regulating the differentiation status and RAI sensitivity of BRAF^V600E-mutated thyroid cancer. These findings identify Gadd45B as a promising therapeutic target for restoring RAI responsiveness in RAIR-DTC patients. Full article