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Keywords = metabolic alterations

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29 pages, 6199 KB  
Article
Polyamine-Related Gene Families Identification and Regulatory Effects on Early Somatic Embryogenesis via Modulating Gene Expressions and Hormone Levels in Ginkgo biloba
by Jingjing Di, Wenyan Ge, Ying Chen, Yuchen Hu, Yichen Lu and Hao Cai
Plants 2026, 15(11), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15111617 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
Polyamines (PAs) play critical roles in plant growth, somatic embryogenesis (SE), etc. Previous studies have demonstrated that exogenous PAs could promote SE in plants. However, the effects of PAs on Ginkgo biloba L. SE are still unknown, especially in the switch from the [...] Read more.
Polyamines (PAs) play critical roles in plant growth, somatic embryogenesis (SE), etc. Previous studies have demonstrated that exogenous PAs could promote SE in plants. However, the effects of PAs on Ginkgo biloba L. SE are still unknown, especially in the switch from the initial callus (IC) to the embryogenic callus (EC) stage or to the globular embryo (GE) stage. This work identified 34 genes involved in PA metabolism in G. biloba using genome-wide analyses. These genes were clustered into six families and found to be unevenly distributed across 11 of the 12 chromosomes on the plant. These families contain 539 cis-acting elements that mainly respond to phytohormones, abiotic stress, meristem expression, etc. RNAseq analysis revealed that the expression of GbADC2, GbSAMDC2, GbSPMS1, GbCuAO1 and 3, and GbPAO3, 8, 6 and 13 genes in G. biloba were higher in the GE stage than in the IC stage. In addition, 1.0 mg·L−1 spermine (Spm3) could promote the conversion of IC to EC, while 0.01 mg·L−1 putrescine (Put1) could facilitate the transition from IC to EC and then to GE. During the conversion of IC to EC or to GE, higher levels of abscisic acid (ABA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD) and lower levels ofindole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin (GA3), and zeatin (ZT) were observed; concurrently, the H2O2 level was also observed to be high. Gene expressions of GbSPMS2, GbCuAO3, and GbPAO6 and 8 were upregulated, while GbADC2 expression was downregulated in the EC or GE stages under Spm3- or Put1- treatment. These results illustrate that exogenous PAs might alter the levels of the endogenous polyamine pool and lead to H2O2 production, which caused a certain oxidative stress. However, SOD and POD balanced H2O2 production and maintained homeostasis. The Pas–H2O2–ABA module might coordinate the regulation of early in of G. biloba. These relations were discussed in this work. These findings provide a foundation for comprehending the roles of PA gene families in the key nodes of early SE in G. biloba. Full article
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21 pages, 1725 KB  
Review
Mediterranean Culinary Medicine: An Integrative Approach to Diet, Culinary Practices, and Health
by Miguel Ruiz-Canela, Vanessa Bullón-Vela and Alejandro Bonetti
Gastronomy 2026, 4(2), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastronomy4020011 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized as one of the most robust dietary patterns for the prevention of chronic diseases, yet its health effects cannot be fully understood without considering the culinary practices and cultural contexts that shape food preparation and consumption. In [...] Read more.
The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized as one of the most robust dietary patterns for the prevention of chronic diseases, yet its health effects cannot be fully understood without considering the culinary practices and cultural contexts that shape food preparation and consumption. In this context, we propose the concept of Mediterranean Culinary Medicine, defined as the application of culinary medicine principles within the Mediterranean dietary model, integrating evidence-based nutrition with traditional ingredients, cooking techniques, and meal patterns. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies to examine how culinary practices may influence the nutritional quality, bioavailability of bioactive compounds, and overall health effects of the Mediterranean diet, although the strength of evidence varies across domains, with particular attention to home cooking, traditional cooking techniques, and extra virgin olive oil. We also explore the biological pathways, suggested by a combination of experimental findings and observational evidence, through which culinary practices may modulate metabolic health, including inflammation, glycemic response, and gut microbiota, as well as their potential application in addressing disease-related eating limitations such as sensory alterations, dysphagia, malnutrition, and food allergies, for example, through texture modification or flavor enhancement strategies. Finally, we highlight the social, cultural, and environmental dimensions of Mediterranean Culinary Medicine, emphasizing its role as a holistic and culturally grounded approach that facilitates the translation of Mediterranean dietary principles into sustainable and practical dietary behaviors. Overall, available evidence suggests that culinary practices are a relevant but still underexplored component of the Mediterranean diet, with the potential to improve dietary adherence and nutritional quality. However, current evidence remains heterogeneous and largely based on experimental and observational studies, highlighting the need for longitudinal and intervention studies to clarify their long-term health impact. Full article
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24 pages, 19412 KB  
Article
Walnut Septum-Derived Aqueous Extract Alleviates Colitis Through Modulation of Gut Metabolism and Inflammatory Signaling
by Beier Jiang, Yu Wan, Lina Liu, Jiajun Cheng, Tianjiao Min, Xinlong Gao, Zicheng Yu, Li Ma and Ying He
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1866; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111866 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
The aqueous extract of Diaphragma Juglandis Fructus (AED), a by-product of Juglans regia L., represents a promising food-derived functional ingredient with potential benefits for intestinal health. This study evaluated the anti-colitis effects of AED and explored its underlying mechanisms using LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages [...] Read more.
The aqueous extract of Diaphragma Juglandis Fructus (AED), a by-product of Juglans regia L., represents a promising food-derived functional ingredient with potential benefits for intestinal health. This study evaluated the anti-colitis effects of AED and explored its underlying mechanisms using LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and a DSS-induced colitis mouse model. In DSS-induced colitis in mice, AED at 10 μg/mL suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine production and inhibited JAK1/STAT3 signaling. In DSS-induced colitis in mice, AED at 600 mg/kg for 7 days mitigated DSS-induced colonic injury, restored tight junction proteins, and improved epithelial barrier integrity. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses identified AED-associated alterations in arginine-polyamine and taurine-hypotaurine metabolism, while network pharmacology and molecular docking suggested angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) as candidate functional targets for further investigation. Collectively, these findings indicate that AED exerts anti-colitis effects in association with coordinated changes in inflammatory signaling, metabolic pathways, and barrier-related markers, supporting its potential as a food-derived functional ingredient candidate for ulcerative colitis management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutraceuticals, Functional Foods, and Novel Foods)
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17 pages, 12537 KB  
Article
Comparative Metabolomic Analysis of Different Organs of Understory-Transplanted and Wild Dendropanax dentiger
by Jianshuang Shen, Yiyun Chen, Hang Zhang and Tianze Hu
Metabolites 2026, 16(6), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16060354 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
Background: The artificial cultivation of Dendropanax dentiger under forest understory conditions offers a sustainable alternative to wild harvesting, yet the metabolic adaptations underlying transplantation stress and recovery remain poorly understood. Objectives: In this study, we performed a comparative metabolomics analysis of different [...] Read more.
Background: The artificial cultivation of Dendropanax dentiger under forest understory conditions offers a sustainable alternative to wild harvesting, yet the metabolic adaptations underlying transplantation stress and recovery remain poorly understood. Objectives: In this study, we performed a comparative metabolomics analysis of different organs (leaves, current-year stems, three-year-old stems, and roots) from wild D. dentiger plants and those transplanted to the understory. Methods and Results: Metabolite annotation and classification revealed that over 60% of the metabolites fell into the categories of lipids and lipid-like molecules, organoheterocyclic compounds, phenylpropanoids, and polyketides. Further differential analysis of metabolites showed that understory transplantation significantly altered the metabolic profiles of all organs, exhibiting organ-specific response patterns. For the metabolite components in the organs of transplanted and wild D. dentiger, these metabolites were mainly classified into eight categories: alkaloids and derivatives; benzenoids; lignans, neolignans and related compounds; lipids and lipid-like molecules; organic acids and derivatives; organoheterocyclic compounds; phenylpropanoids and polyketides; and organic oxygen compounds. Notably, the contents of (-)-asarinin, (Z)-1-(methylthio)-5-phenyl-1-penten-3-yne, and stearidonic acid (SDA, 18:4n-3) were higher in transplanted plants than in wild plants, indicating the potential of understory cultivation for the targeted extraction of these bioactive compounds. Conclusion: These findings provide a metabolomics basis for optimizing the artificial cultivation and quality control of D. dentiger. This study highlights the value of metabolomics in understanding the metabolic composition of D. dentiger and offers a reference for its artificial cultivation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Metabolism)
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19 pages, 3170 KB  
Article
Sporoderm Disruption Reshapes the Chemical Characteristics and Enhances the Mitochondrial Protective Activity of Ganoderma lucidum Spore Polysaccharides via SIRT1/AMPK Signaling
by Zhiwei Long, Junzhe Zhang, Longqin Li, Xin Chai, Zipeng Gong, Yang Lu, Hai-Ning Lyu and Shengnan Shen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4741; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114741 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
Ganoderma lucidum spores are widely consumed natural functional materials; however, the influence of sporoderm disruption on the physicochemical characteristics and biological performance of spore polysaccharides remains insufficiently understood. In this study, polysaccharides extracted from intact spores (GLSP-I) and sporoderm-broken spores (GLSP-SB) were systematically [...] Read more.
Ganoderma lucidum spores are widely consumed natural functional materials; however, the influence of sporoderm disruption on the physicochemical characteristics and biological performance of spore polysaccharides remains insufficiently understood. In this study, polysaccharides extracted from intact spores (GLSP-I) and sporoderm-broken spores (GLSP-SB) were systematically compared to clarify how industrial processing affects their physicochemical properties and cytoprotective activity. Chemical characterization demonstrated that sporoderm disruption increased extraction yield and modified molecular weight distribution, monosaccharide composition, and spectroscopic features without fundamentally altering the polysaccharide backbone. Both polysaccharide fractions alleviated TBHP-induced oxidative injury, whereas GLSP-SB exhibited enhanced cytoprotective efficacy. Quantitative proteomic analysis revealed that GLSP-SB regulated a broader set of proteins associated with mitochondrial organization, oxidative stress response, autophagy, and cellular energy metabolism. Functional assays further showed that GLSP-SB promoted mitochondrial biogenesis, restored ATP production, and maintained mitochondrial morphology under oxidative stress conditions. Mechanistic validation demonstrated activation of the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway, indicating that modulation of this pathway contributes to mitochondrial adaptive responses. These findings suggest that sporoderm disruption reshapes polysaccharide characteristics and is associated with enhanced mitochondrial protective activity, providing mechanistic insight into the rational processing and functional utilization of G. lucidum spore products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Nature to Medicine: Exploring Natural Products for New Therapies)
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20 pages, 1409 KB  
Review
Gut Dysbiosis Serine–Glycine Metabolism and Glioblastoma: Exploring Therapeutic Opportunities
by Micol Mangano, Maria Cristina Ermio, Fabio Sciubba, Michele De Rosa, Giuseppina D’A lessandro, Cristina Limatola and Maria Rosito
Cancers 2026, 18(11), 1717; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18111717 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
The gut–brain axis is a central regulatory network linking dietary habits, metabolic homeostasis, and brain function through bidirectional communication among the intestine, microbiota, and central nervous system. Acting as a key mediator, the gut microbiota translates environmental and nutritional factors into systemic outcomes [...] Read more.
The gut–brain axis is a central regulatory network linking dietary habits, metabolic homeostasis, and brain function through bidirectional communication among the intestine, microbiota, and central nervous system. Acting as a key mediator, the gut microbiota translates environmental and nutritional factors into systemic outcomes that influence both health and disease. Within this context, serine and glycine metabolism emerges as a critical yet underexplored hub connecting microbial activity with brain regulation. Changes in gut microbial composition can profoundly affect host one-carbon metabolism and amino acid availability, shaping systemic physiology and neural processes. In this review, we outline a biochemical framework in which gut microbiota alterations influence brain and liver serine/glycine (ser/gly) metabolism, driving the hepatic production of secondary metabolites, including taurine-conjugated bile acids. We delineate how gut–brain axis pathways orchestrate systemic and neural functions, and highlight glioblastoma (GBM) as a pathological context where hijacked serine–glycine metabolism fuels tumor growth, stemness, and therapy resistance. By focusing on the interplay between gut microbiota, ser/gly metabolism, and brain tumor biology, this review offers a cohesive perspective on translational interventions. Glycine-centered pathways emerge as promising targets to modulate the gut–brain–tumor axis, opening new avenues to influence GBM progression and enhance therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genomics in Brain Tumors)
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22 pages, 1271 KB  
Article
Gut Microbiota Composition in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: Associations with Sex, Age, and Body Composition
by Katarzyna Bąk, Michał Kowalski, Kamila Marszalek, Patrycja Olszewska, Andrzej Ossowski, Bartłomiej Grygorcewicz, Aleksandra Cader-Ptak, Leszek Domański, Violetta Dziedziejko and Ewa Kwiatkowska
Nutrients 2026, 18(11), 1682; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18111682 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD) commonly exhibit chronic low-grade inflammation, nutritional disturbances, altered body composition, and metabolic imbalance. Gut dysbiosis may contribute to these abnormalities through the gut–kidney axis; however, the relationship between the gut microbiota composition and host phenotype in HD [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD) commonly exhibit chronic low-grade inflammation, nutritional disturbances, altered body composition, and metabolic imbalance. Gut dysbiosis may contribute to these abnormalities through the gut–kidney axis; however, the relationship between the gut microbiota composition and host phenotype in HD patients remains incompletely characterized. This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiota composition in maintenance HD patients and assess its cross-sectional associations with demographic, inflammatory, nutritional, dialysis-related, and bioimpedance-derived body composition parameters. Methods: This single-center cross-sectional study included 96 patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing maintenance HD. The primary objective was to characterize the gut microbiota composition in maintenance HD patients. Secondary objectives were to assess cross-sectional associations with demographic factors (sex, age) and bioimpedance-derived body composition (specifically VAT). Clinical and laboratory data, inflammatory markers, nutritional indicators, malnutrition–inflammation score (MIS), dialysis-related variables, and bioimpedance-derived body composition parameters were collected. Stool samples were analyzed using full-length 16S rRNA sequencing. The gut microbiota composition was assessed using taxonomic profiling, alpha-diversity and beta-diversity analyses, subgroup comparisons, and exploratory distance-based analyses. Associations were interpreted within a descriptive and hypothesis-generating framework. Results: The gut microbiota composition showed marked inter-individual heterogeneity at the genus level, with dominant taxa including Blautia, Faecalibacterium, Streptococcus, Gemmiger, Ruminococcus, Escherichia-Shigella, and Enterococcus. Chao1 richness was higher in men than in women. Shannon entropy and Chao1 richness were positively associated with age and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), while Faith’s phylogenetic diversity increased with age. In contrast, the Gini index was negatively associated with age and VAT, indicating a more even microbial community structure in older individuals and in those with higher visceral adiposity. Beta-diversity analyses suggested modest differences in microbial community structure according to sex and selected body composition-related categories, particularly in sex-stratified analyses. Exploratory distance-based analysis showed a modest association between overall microbiota dissimilarity and host phenotype dissimilarity, although this finding was limited by reduced sample overlap. Conclusions: The gut microbiota composition in maintenance HD patients was highly heterogeneous and showed cross-sectional associations, mainly with sex, age, visceral adiposity, and broader host phenotype. These findings suggest that microbiota variation in HD reflects multidimensional demographic, inflammatory, nutritional, metabolic, and body composition-related factors rather than a single clinical determinant. Larger longitudinal studies integrating standardized dietary, medication, metabolic, and clinical outcome data are needed to determine the prognostic relevance of these microbiota patterns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition Methodology & Assessment)
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16 pages, 6247 KB  
Article
Single-Cell Transcriptomic and Metabolic Signatures in Exhausted and Classical Memory B Cells—An Exploratory Analysis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis
by Litong Zhu, Taoyan Lin, Lai Yee Cheong, Jason K. H. Sher, Irene Y. L. Yam, Wynn Cheung, Susan Yung, Tak Mao Chan and Desmond Y. H. Yap
Biomedicines 2026, 14(6), 1188; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14061188 - 25 May 2026
Abstract
Aim: Disturbances in exhausted and classical memory B cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN), but the genetic regulation of their homeostasis remains poorly understood. Methods: We analyzed the single-cell RNA-seq data of peripheral [...] Read more.
Aim: Disturbances in exhausted and classical memory B cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN), but the genetic regulation of their homeostasis remains poorly understood. Methods: We analyzed the single-cell RNA-seq data of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from the NIH SLE dataset (GSE135779) and another published LN single-cell RNA-seq dataset (dbGAP database accession code phs001457.v1.p1). Overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in exhausted and classical memory B cells from SLE and LN patients were identified, and their altered expression was validated in B cells obtained from LN patients. GO and KEGG analyses were used to analyze associated pathways. The relationships between exhausted and classical memory B cells and cellular metabolic pathways were also assessed. Results: Three DEGs (IFI44L, XAF1, and MX1) were detected in both exhausted and classical memory B cells, and their increased expression was verified in classical and exhausted memory B cells obtained from LN patients during remission. The protein–protein interaction network of the DEGs suggested that STAT1 showed the highest eigenvector centrality for these DEGs. IFI44L, XAF1 and MX1 were involved in distinct biological processes and immune pathways (especially JAK-STAT). Classical memory B cells showed higher expression of genes involved in sulfur metabolism (SQRDL and TST), amino sugar metabolism (GFPT1 and UAP1), and butanoate metabolism (ACADS and ACAT1), while exhausted B cells exhibited inverse relationships with these metabolic pathways. Conclusions: Altered expression of IFI44L, XAF1 and MX1 is associated with distinct metabolic signatures and immune pathways in exhausted and classical memory B cells in SLE and LN. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epigenetic Regulation of Kidney Development)
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28 pages, 1927 KB  
Article
Effects of Feeding Grapevine Branch–Leaf Silage on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemical Parameters, Rumen Microbial Diversity, and Metabolism in Kazakh Rams
by Kadeliya Abudureyimu, Linhai Song, Buweiaizhaer Maimaitimin, Subinuer Abuduli, Yuxin Zhou, Yongkuo Li, Zhijun Zhang, Wei Shao, Liang Yang and Wanping Ren
Animals 2026, 16(11), 1600; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111600 - 24 May 2026
Abstract
Grapevine branch and leaf silage (GBLS), a polyphenol-rich unconventional forage, exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can benefit animal health and productivity. A total of 60 healthy six-month-old Kazakh rams (43.29 ± 4.55 kg, p > 0.05 for initial body weight among groups) [...] Read more.
Grapevine branch and leaf silage (GBLS), a polyphenol-rich unconventional forage, exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can benefit animal health and productivity. A total of 60 healthy six-month-old Kazakh rams (43.29 ± 4.55 kg, p > 0.05 for initial body weight among groups) were randomly assigned to three dietary groups, each consisting of four replicates with five rams per replicate. The control group (CK) was fed a basal diet based on whole-plant corn silage, whereas the experimental groups received diets in which 50% (GBLS50%) or 100% (GBLS100%) of the corn silage was replaced with GBLS. A 10-day adaptation period preceded the 90-day formal feeding trial. Results showed a significant quadratic response for average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) across GBLS substitution rates (p < 0.05), with the 50% level yielding the highest values. Specifically, ADFI at the 50% replacement level was significantly higher than that of the control (p < 0.05), confirming an inverted U-shaped response with 50% as the optimal substitution rate. However, in-depth analysis of serum biochemical parameters revealed that GBLS supplementation significantly reduced serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, urea nitrogen, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and malondialdehyde (MDA), while significantly increasing levels of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) (p < 0.05). Rumen fermentation analysis showed that the GBLS50% group had significantly lower concentrations of acetate, butyrate, and total volatile fatty acids (VFA) (p < 0.05). In the rumen microbiota study, no significant differences were observed in alpha or beta diversity or at the phylum level between groups (p > 0.05); however, the abundance of Lactobacillus gasseri was significantly reduced in the GBLS50% group (p < 0.05). Metabolomic profiling identified 43 significantly altered metabolites—27 upregulated (e.g., PE (18:1(9Z)/0:0) and 12,14-pentacosadiynoic acid) and 16 downregulated (e.g., deoxyadenosine). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis highlighted purine metabolism as a significantly altered pathway (p < 0.05), providing insight into the potential metabolic mechanisms underlying the physiological effects of GBLS in rams. In conclusion, replacing 50% of whole-plant corn silage with grapevine branch and leaf silage improves growth performance trends and significantly enhances immunity and antioxidant capacity in Kazakh rams. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)
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25 pages, 9628 KB  
Article
A Synbiotic of Lacto-N-tetraose and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup Attenuates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity by Modulating Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Mice
by Ying Luo, Yang Li, Linjun Wu, Xiaoqiong Li, Xiangyu Bian, Jian Kuang, Jianqiang Li, Fangshu Shi, Xuguang Zhang, Xiaoqiang Han, Jinzhu Pang, Jinjun Li and Haibiao Sun
Nutrients 2026, 18(11), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18111681 - 24 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity is closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. However, single probiotic or prebiotic interventions often yield only limited metabolic improvements. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a synbiotic formulation comprising Lacto- [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity is closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. However, single probiotic or prebiotic interventions often yield only limited metabolic improvements. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a synbiotic formulation comprising Lacto-N-tetraose (LNT) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup (MN-Gup) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model. Methods: In this study, an HFD-induced obese mouse model was used to investigate whether the synbiotic formulation of LNT and MN-Gup could ameliorate obesity-related metabolic dysregulation, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and gut microbiota imbalance. Mice were treated with LNT alone, MN-Gup alone, or the synbiotic at different doses. Serum biochemical parameters, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles, liver histopathology, intestinal barrier markers, gut microbiota composition, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were analyzed. Results: High-dose synbiotic intervention significantly outperformed single-component treatments in reducing weight gain, improving glucose tolerance and lipid profiles, and attenuating hepatic lipid accumulation and injury in mice. These metabolic changes were accompanied by improved markers of intestinal barrier integrity and modulation of gut microbiota composition, characterized by the enrichment of beneficial genera (e.g., Akkermansia, Leuconostoc, and Alistipes) alongside a reduction in obesity-associated taxa (including Desulfovibrionaceae_unclassified, Colidextribacter, Helicobacter, Erysipelatoclostridium, Peptococcaceae_unclassified, and Firmicutes_unclassified). Spearman correlation analysis revealed associative links between microbial alterations and host metabolic markers. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings suggest that the synbiotic formulation comprising high-dose LNT and MN-Gup offers potential benefits for managing high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysregulation in mice. Full article
26 pages, 5527 KB  
Article
Comparative Effects of Recirculating and Rice-Co-Culture Systems on Growth-Quality Trade-Offs and Underlying Physiological Mechanisms in Red Claw Crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus)
by Weiwei Lv, Zhiwei He, Weiwei Huang, Hang Yang, Quan Yuan, Yuning Zhang and Wenzong Zhou
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1857; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111857 - 24 May 2026
Abstract
The red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is an economically important freshwater crustacean. This study comprehensively compared the physiological profiles of crayfish cultured in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and rice–red claw crayfish co-culture systems (RRCS) over a 92-day experimental period (3 replicates [...] Read more.
The red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is an economically important freshwater crustacean. This study comprehensively compared the physiological profiles of crayfish cultured in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and rice–red claw crayfish co-culture systems (RRCS) over a 92-day experimental period (3 replicates per system; n = 15 crayfish sampled per group), focusing on growth performance, muscle quality, hepatopancreatic metabolomics, and intestinal microbiota. Results demonstrated that while RAS provided a significant growth advantage, RRCS exhibited superior muscle quality characterized by higher protein, lower moisture, and firmer texture. Regarding intestinal microecology, RAS induced a microbial shift toward the potentially pathogenic genus Vibrio, whereas RRCS promoted core symbionts like Candidatus Hepatoplasma. Multi-omics integration revealed that RRCS altered the intestinal microbiota and was associated with up-regulated hepatopancreatic pantothenate biosynthesis and TCA cycle pathways, alongside LysoPC-mediated membrane lipid remodeling. In conclusion, while RAS promotes rapid somatic growth, RRCS fosters a distinct intestinal microecology and hepatopancreatic metabolic profile that aligns with enhanced muscle quality. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing ecological aquaculture models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Meat)
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18 pages, 633 KB  
Review
Multimodal Exercise and Nutritional Interventions in Pediatric Cancer: Effects on Physical Function, Body Composition, and Metabolic Health—A Narrative Review
by Antonio Ibáñez-Camacho, Belén Pastor-Villaescusa, Jose Manuel Jurado-Castro, Mercedes Gil-Campos and Francisco Jesus Llorente-Cantarero
Children 2026, 13(6), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13060729 - 24 May 2026
Abstract
Survival rates in pediatric cancer have increased substantially over recent decades. However, children and survivors frequently experience treatment-related alterations in physical function, body composition, bone health, and metabolic regulation. Chemotherapy, glucocorticoid exposure, physical inactivity, nutritional imbalance, and inflammatory and neuroendocrine disturbances may contribute [...] Read more.
Survival rates in pediatric cancer have increased substantially over recent decades. However, children and survivors frequently experience treatment-related alterations in physical function, body composition, bone health, and metabolic regulation. Chemotherapy, glucocorticoid exposure, physical inactivity, nutritional imbalance, and inflammatory and neuroendocrine disturbances may contribute to reduced lean mass, decreased bone mineral density, sarcopenic obesity, and long-term cardiometabolic risk. This narrative review critically summarizes current evidence on multimodal exercise and nutritional interventions in pediatric oncology, with particular attention to their effects on physical function, body composition, nutritional status, and metabolic health. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 2026, combining contextual evidence with studies evaluating combined exercise and nutritional strategies. Current evidence suggests that structured and supervised exercise, particularly resistance and combined aerobic–resistance training, is feasible and safe, and may improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, functional capacity, and body composition. Nutritional care should be individualized, prioritizing adequate protein intake, micronutrient status, periodic reassessment of energy requirements, and body composition rather than relying on BMI alone. Nevertheless, available findings remain limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous protocols, variable supervision, inconsistent outcome assessment, and limited long-term follow-up. Integrating exercise, nutrition, and regular monitoring into pediatric oncology care may help mitigate treatment-related functional and metabolic complications. Future studies should prioritize adequately powered randomized trials, standardized intervention protocols, objective monitoring of exercise intensity, harmonized body composition and functional outcomes, and longer follow-up to define clinically applicable multimodal care models. Full article
30 pages, 642 KB  
Review
Isoprostanes and Isofurans in Infertility and Assisted Reproduction: What Do We Know So Far?
by Charalampos Voros, Fotios Chatzinikolaou, Georgios Papadimas, Athanasios Karpouzos, Aristotelis-Marios Koulakmanidis, Diamantis Athanasiou, Kyriakos Bananis, Antonia Athanasiou, Aikaterini Athanasiou, Charalampos Tsimpoukelis, Ioannis Papapanagiotou, Maria Anastasia Daskalaki, Christina Trakateli, Nana Kojo Koranteng, Nikolaos Thomakos, Panagiotis Antsaklis, Dimitrios Loutradis and Georgios Daskalakis
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4710; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114710 - 23 May 2026
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a fundamental mechanism that impacts reproductive function by altering gamete quality, fertilisation, and the initial development of embryos. Excessive reactive oxygen species lead to the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the cell membranes of sperm, oocytes, and adjacent somatic [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress is a fundamental mechanism that impacts reproductive function by altering gamete quality, fertilisation, and the initial development of embryos. Excessive reactive oxygen species lead to the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the cell membranes of sperm, oocytes, and adjacent somatic cells. F2-isoprostanes and isofurans are two of the most dependable indicators of oxidative lipid damage among the byproducts generated during free radical-mediated lipid oxidation. Both arise from the non-enzymatic peroxidation of arachidonic acid and provide a chemically stable depiction of in vivo oxidative processes. Reproductive studies indicate that elevated levels of F2-isoprostanes are associated with diminished sperm motility, compromised membrane stability, and an increased risk of DNA fragmentation in various forms of male infertility. Lipid peroxidation products have been detected in follicular fluid inside the female reproductive system, suggesting a relationship between oxidative imbalance, granulosa cell metabolism, and oocyte competency. Isofurans, which are more prevalent in the presence of elevated oxygen levels, may indicate oxidative stress in mitochondria and complications with cellular respiration. The current comprehension of lipid peroxidation indicators in infertility and assisted reproduction remains insufficient. This review aims to synthesise current information on isoprostanes and isofurans as reliable indicators of oxidative lipid damage in reproductive biology, highlighting their effects on gamete quality, mitochondrial dysfunction, and results in assisted reproduction. Our research seeks to clarify the biological importance of current experimental and clinical findings, highlighting their potential as clinically relevant biomarkers in reproductive medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Cell and Molecular Biology)
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13 pages, 315 KB  
Article
Impact of Helicobacter pylori Infection on Metabolic and Physiological Parameters Among Young Adults Individuals
by Ashwag Alsharidah and Jehan Mohamed Abdelsalam Mansour
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(11), 4046; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15114046 - 23 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives:Helicobacter pylori infection is traditionally associated with gastrointestinal diseases; however, increasing evidence suggests that it may have systemic effects involving inflammatory, metabolic, and hematological pathways. Despite this, integrated evaluations of these domains remain limited, particularly in Middle Eastern populations. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives:Helicobacter pylori infection is traditionally associated with gastrointestinal diseases; however, increasing evidence suggests that it may have systemic effects involving inflammatory, metabolic, and hematological pathways. Despite this, integrated evaluations of these domains remain limited, particularly in Middle Eastern populations. This study aimed to assess the impact of H. pylori infection on inflammatory, metabolic, and hematological parameters among adults. Methods: A case–control study was conducted including 100 participants (50 H. pylori-positive patients and 50 healthy controls) recruited from Qassim Health Cluster, Saudi Arabia. Demographic and clinical data were collected, and blood samples were analyzed for random blood sugar (RBS), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), hemoglobin, ferritin, and white blood cell count (WBC). Statistical analyses included group comparisons, Spearman correlation, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The infected group showed significantly higher levels of RBS and HbA1c, indicating impaired glycemic control. Inflammatory markers (CRP and ESR) were also significantly elevated compared to controls (p < 0.001). Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were significantly lower in the infected group (p < 0.001), suggesting disturbed iron metabolism. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between inflammatory markers and glycemic indices, and negative associations with hemoglobin and ferritin. Multivariable logistic regression identified CRP (adjusted OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04–1.71) and ESR (adjusted OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.02–1.16) as independent predictors of H. pylori infection after adjustment for smoking status and fast-food consumption. The combined model demonstrated acceptable discriminatory performance with an AUC of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.74–0.90). Conclusions:Helicobacter pylori infection was associated with significant inflammatory, metabolic, and hematological alterations, supporting its potential role as a systemic condition beyond the gastrointestinal tract. These associations remained significant after adjustment for major lifestyle-related confounders, including smoking status and fast-food consumption. Although the combined inflammatory model demonstrated acceptable discriminatory performance, it should currently be considered mainly for research or preliminary screening purposes and not as a replacement for established diagnostic methods for active H. pylori infection. Further large-scale longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted to clarify causality and evaluate the impact of eradication therapy on systemic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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22 pages, 3132 KB  
Article
Striatal Metabolomic Profiling Links Brazilian Green Propolis to Suberic Acid Modulation and Nigrostriatal Neuroprotection in a Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease
by Kételin Vitória Matias, Mario Augusto Izidoro, Fernando Barbosa, Bruno Alves Rocha, Victor Silva da Fonsêca, Fulvio Alexandre Scorza, Frederick Wasinski, Valeria de Cassia Gonçalves, Rozana Mesquita Ciconelli, Andresa Aparecida Berretta, Josef Finsterer and Carla Alessandra Scorza
Molecules 2026, 31(11), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31111791 - 23 May 2026
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by progressive nigrostriatal degeneration and striatal dysfunction, yet its metabolic remodeling remains incompletely defined. Here, untargeted GC–MS metabolomics was used to investigate the effects of standardized Brazilian green propolis on the striatal metabolic profile in the 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) [...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by progressive nigrostriatal degeneration and striatal dysfunction, yet its metabolic remodeling remains incompletely defined. Here, untargeted GC–MS metabolomics was used to investigate the effects of standardized Brazilian green propolis on the striatal metabolic profile in the 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) rat model. Discriminant metabolites, including suberic acid, gluconic acid, heptadecane, and tartaric acid, distinguished experimental groups, capturing key features of the metabolic response to dopaminergic injury and treatment. Suberic acid emerged as a prominently modulated metabolite, potentially linked to alterations in lipid catabolism associated with mitochondrial–peroxisomal pathways. Propolis treatment attenuated the elevation of suberic acid, accompanied by a reduction in gluconic acid levels, suggesting a metabolic profile linked to pathways involved in redox balance and glucose handling. Given previous reports identifying heptadecane as a hydrocarbon constituent of volatile propolis fractions, complementary GC-Q-TOF analyses demonstrated that heptadecane was absent from the administered extract, despite its consistent association with propolis-treated groups. Metabolic changes were accompanied by attenuation of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurodegeneration and improved motor performance. Together, these findings delineate a striatal metabolic signature associated with Brazilian green propolis and identify suberic acid as a key metabolite linked to neuroprotection in experimental Parkinsonism. Full article
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