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24 pages, 658 KB  
Review
Targeting Ovarian Neoplasms: Subtypes and Therapeutic Options
by Seon Young Hong, Ahyoung Cho, Chang-Suk Chae and Hye Jin You
Medicina 2025, 61(12), 2246; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61122246 (registering DOI) - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
The ovary, as the primary organ responsible for reproduction and new life, plays a central role in female development, maturation, and health. Neoplasms arising from the ovary and its associated tissues exhibit substantial heterogeneity in their histopathological and molecular profiles, many of which [...] Read more.
The ovary, as the primary organ responsible for reproduction and new life, plays a central role in female development, maturation, and health. Neoplasms arising from the ovary and its associated tissues exhibit substantial heterogeneity in their histopathological and molecular profiles, many of which remain poorly understood. This review aims to summarize recent advances in the understanding of genetic alterations underlying ovarian neoplasms and to explore therapeutic strategies informed by molecular biomarkers and tumor microenvironmental factors. A comprehensive literature search was performed, focusing on genomic alterations, biomarker-guided therapies, and tumor microenvironmental modulation in ovarian cancers. Emphasis was placed on studies addressing lipid mediator pathways and their roles in immune regulation and therapeutic response. Based on diagnostic classifications, recurrent alterations in TP53, MYC, PIK3CA, and KRAS are consistently observed across epithelial and germ cell ovarian tumors, whereas non-epithelial subtypes such as sex cord–stromal tumors (SCSTs) and small-cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), are predominantly associated with ARID1A and SMARCA4 mutations, respectively. These findings highlight distinct pathogenic mechanisms linked to specific genetic alterations and reveal potential therapeutic vulnerabilities. Moreover, lipid metabolism has been closely implicated in immune surveillance through STING signaling cascades within innate immune cells, suggesting that lipid mediators and their associated genes may represent promising therapeutic targets in ovarian cancers (OCs). Targeting lipid mediators could be particularly effective in relapsed OCs, as modulating innate immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) may enhance immune surveillance and improve antitumor responses. Integrating genetic and microenvironmental insights offers a promising direction for developing more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies in OC. Full article
22 pages, 3907 KB  
Article
SS18::SSX and BRD9 Modulate Synovial Sarcoma Differentiation
by Anna Kuntze, Victor Banerjee, Marcel Trautmann, Charlotte Pünt, Ruth Berthold, Pascal Hauser, Lucas Scholl, Eva Wardelmann, Kornelius Kerl, Wolfgang Hartmann and Ilka Isfort
Cells 2025, 14(24), 2022; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14242022 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Synovial sarcoma (SySa) is a malignant soft tissue tumor that is characterized by an SS18::SSX fusion protein, which integrates into BAF chromatin remodeling complexes and alters global gene transcription. Despite its uniform genetic driver, SySa displays striking histomorphological and phenotypic heterogeneity, including spindle [...] Read more.
Synovial sarcoma (SySa) is a malignant soft tissue tumor that is characterized by an SS18::SSX fusion protein, which integrates into BAF chromatin remodeling complexes and alters global gene transcription. Despite its uniform genetic driver, SySa displays striking histomorphological and phenotypic heterogeneity, including spindle cell, glandular and poorly differentiated patterns. Prognosis is variable, with around 50% of patients developing metastases. Limited response to chemotherapy highlights the need for a better understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms to guide alternative therapeutic strategies. Given the pivotal function of BAF complexes in SySa and their recently described impact on cellular differentiation processes, this study aims to investigate the role of SS18::SSX and specific BAF subunits in SySa differentiation. Nanostring analysis revealed that silencing of SS18::SSX and the GBAF subunit BRD9 modulates the cellular differentiation pathways. SS18::SSX and BRD9 were found to regulate epithelial–mesenchymal-transition (EMT)-associated factors of Snail and Slug on different levels, with SS18::SSX repressing E-Cadherin expression. Published single-cell RNA sequencing data were analyzed to validate our finding that BRD9 contributes to SySa EMT regulation. Our study provides novel insights into the multilayered regulation of key EMT players by SS18::SSX and BRD9 in SySa, thereby defining tumor phenotype and (potentially) prognosis. Full article
13 pages, 889 KB  
Article
Temporal Dynamics of Inflammatory, Glial, and Metabolic Biomarkers Following Severe Diffuse Traumatic Brain Injury in a Rat Model
by Ozan Başkurt
Biomedicines 2025, 13(12), 3123; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13123123 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a complex sequence of inflammatory, glial, and metabolic events that evolve dynamically and contribute substantially to secondary brain injury. This study aimed to characterize the temporal serum dynamics of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), glial fibrillary [...] Read more.
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a complex sequence of inflammatory, glial, and metabolic events that evolve dynamically and contribute substantially to secondary brain injury. This study aimed to characterize the temporal serum dynamics of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and insulin following severe diffuse TBI in a rat model, with the goal of delineating the coordinated progression of inflammatory, astroglial, and metabolic responses. Methods: Severe diffuse TBI was induced in adult male Sprague–Dawley rats using the Marmarou weight-drop model. Animals were randomized into five groups (sham, 1 h, 6 h, 24 h, 72 h; n = 10 per group). Serum TNF-α, IL-6, GFAP, and insulin levels were quantified using ELISA assays. Group differences were assessed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test or Kruskal–Wallis analysis with Dunn’s correction where appropriate. Results were expressed as mean ± SD. Results: TNF-α demonstrated a biphasic pattern, declining at 6 h before peaking significantly at 24 h (p < 0.05) and subsequently decreasing at 72 h. IL-6 exhibited mild suppression at 6 h followed by a significant secondary elevation at 24 h (p < 0.05), with persistently elevated levels at 72 h. GFAP showed delayed kinetics, decreasing at 6 h but rising progressively to a peak at 24 h, consistent with subacute astroglial activation. Insulin levels declined at 6 h and increased significantly at 24 h and 72 h (p < 0.05), indicating evolving metabolic adaptation. Overall, cytokine activity preceded glial and endocrine changes, revealing a sequential inflammatory–glial–metabolic cascade. Conclusions: This study delineates the temporal serum profiles of TNF-α, IL-6, GFAP, and insulin after severe diffuse TBI, revealing a coordinated transition from acute inflammation to astroglial activation and metabolic adaptation. These results support the utility of multimodal biomarker panels for phase-specific characterization of secondary injury and identify GFAP and IL-6 as promising subacute markers with translational relevance. The findings should be interpreted as descriptive temporal patterns rather than mechanistic evidence, pending confirmation with complementary molecular analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Traumatic CNS Injury: From Bench to Bedside (2nd Edition))
13 pages, 1531 KB  
Communication
A Proteomic View of Butterfly Metamorphosis
by Andrew Hesketh, Juned Kadiwala, Vaishnavi Ravikumar, Ana Rita Garizo, Patrícia Beldade, Marjorie Fournier and Rameen Shakur
Proteomes 2025, 13(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/proteomes13040068 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: Insect metamorphosis is one of the most fascinating developmental processes in the natural world. Complete metamorphosis requires the breakdown and reorganisation of larval tissues and the coordinated construction and development of adult structures. The molecular events that achieve this transformation are, however, [...] Read more.
Background: Insect metamorphosis is one of the most fascinating developmental processes in the natural world. Complete metamorphosis requires the breakdown and reorganisation of larval tissues and the coordinated construction and development of adult structures. The molecular events that achieve this transformation are, however, incompletely understood, and there is a particular shortage of data describing changes in protein abundance that occur during the process. Methods: Here, using a label-free quantitative bottom-up approach, we perform a novel whole-organism proteomic analysis of consecutive developmental stages of male Bicyclus anynana butterflies as they develop from caterpillars into adults via pupation. Results: Our analysis generated a dynamic reference dataset representing 2749 detected proteins. Statistical analysis identified 90 proteins changing significantly in abundance during metamorphosis, and functional interpretation highlights cuticle formation, apoptosis and autophagy during the pupal stages, and the up-regulation of respiration and energy metabolism upon completion of the fully formed adult. A preliminary search for potential peptide phosphorylation modifications identified 15 candidates, including three proteins with roles in muscle function. Conclusions: The study provides a basis for future protein-level analysis of butterfly metamorphosis and suggests the importance of dissecting the post-translational regulation associated with this fascinating developmental transformation. Full article
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21 pages, 13312 KB  
Article
Precision-Engineered Dermatan Sulfate-Mimetic Glycopolymers for Multi-Targeted SARS-CoV-2 Inhibition
by Lihao Wang, Lei Gao, Chendong Yang, Mengfei Yin, Jiqin Sun, Luyao Yang, Chanjuan Liu, Simon F. R. Hinkley, Guangli Yu and Chao Cai
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(12), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23120486 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, continues to pose major global health challenges despite extensive vaccination efforts. Variant escape, waning immunity, and reduced vaccine efficacy in immunocompromised populations underscore the urgent need for complementary antiviral therapeutics. Here, we report the design, synthesis, [...] Read more.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, continues to pose major global health challenges despite extensive vaccination efforts. Variant escape, waning immunity, and reduced vaccine efficacy in immunocompromised populations underscore the urgent need for complementary antiviral therapeutics. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of precision-engineered dermatan sulfate (DS)-mimetic glycopolymers as multi-targeted inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2. Guided by molecular docking and virtual screening, sulfation at the C2 and C4 positions of iduronic acid was identified as critical for binding to the viral spike protein and inhibiting host and viral enzymes, including heparanase (HPSE) and main protease (Mpro). Chemically synthesized DS disaccharides were covalently grafted onto polymer scaffolds via a post-modification strategy, yielding glycopolymers with well-defined assembly that form uniform nanoparticles under physiological conditions. Surface plasmon resonance and pseudovirus assays revealed strong binding to the viral spike protein (KD ≈ 177 nM), potent viral neutralization, and minimal cytotoxicity. Cellular uptake studies further demonstrated efficient internalization of nanoparticles and intracellular inhibition of HPSE and Mpro. These results establish a modular, non-anticoagulant, and glycosaminoglycan-mimetic platform for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral agents to complement vaccination and enhance preparedness against emerging coronavirus variants. Full article
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19 pages, 4317 KB  
Article
Acid Electrolyzed Water Priming Induces Phenylpropane Metabolism and Antioxidant Enzyme System to Promote Seed Germination of Celery
by Yi Zhu, Yufan Sun, Haolong Li, Yubin Lan, Danfeng Huang and Shuo Zhao
Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121543 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Seed germination of celery (Apium graveolens L.) is notoriously slow and asynchronous, which severely constrains uniform seedling establishment and crop yield. Seed priming is an effective technique to improve germination, and acidic electrolyzed water, characterized by low pH and high oxidation–reduction potential, [...] Read more.
Seed germination of celery (Apium graveolens L.) is notoriously slow and asynchronous, which severely constrains uniform seedling establishment and crop yield. Seed priming is an effective technique to improve germination, and acidic electrolyzed water, characterized by low pH and high oxidation–reduction potential, has emerged as a novel priming agent. However, the effect of acid electrolyzed water priming (EWP) on celery seed germination and the underlying mechanisms still need to be explored. The present study aimed to investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which EWP promotes celery seed germination, with a focus on the roles of the phenylpropane metabolism and the antioxidant enzyme system. Celery seeds were treated with EWP, hydro-priming (HYD), and untreated (CK). It was found that the EWP treatment significantly enhanced germination characteristics compared to both CK and HYD. Transcriptome analysis revealed that EWP triggered more extensive transcriptional reprogramming than HYD, and EWP specifically enriched “Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis” and “Flavonoid biosynthesis” pathways, downregulating upstream genes (PAL, 4CL) while upregulating downstream genes (CCR, CHI, F3H) in the phenylpropane pathway. Physiologically, EWP significantly increased CHI activity and the contents of total phenols and flavonoids at all sampling time points, and enhanced the activities of SOD, POD, CAT, and APX. Consequently, the DPPH and FRAP free radical scavenging capacities were significantly strengthened in EWP-treated seeds. In conclusion, it is believed that EWP activation promotes celery seed germination by coordinating the phenylpropane pathway and antioxidant enzyme system, ensuring effective radical scavenging activities and cell protection. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the application of EWP and highlight the potential as a novel priming technology for celery and other horticultural crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Biology in Horticulture: From Dormancy to Germination)
31 pages, 4753 KB  
Article
Nephroprotective Effects of Quercetin–Selenium Nanoparticles Against Glycerol-Induced AKI
by Ahmed M. Ashour, Ali Khames, Khaled M. Alam-ElDein, Ahmed Hassan Ibrahim Faraag, Nievin Ahmed Mahran, Badriyah Aljazzaf, Rabia Alghazeer, Fatma Akmal, Marwa Ahmed Mahmoud and Mohamed H. A. Gadelmawla
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12187; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412187 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is defined as a quick and often reversible decline in renal performance, as shown by elevated creatinine or reduced urine volume. AKI is a common illness, particularly among hospitalized cases, and can be observed in up to 7% of [...] Read more.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is defined as a quick and often reversible decline in renal performance, as shown by elevated creatinine or reduced urine volume. AKI is a common illness, particularly among hospitalized cases, and can be observed in up to 7% of hospital admissions and 30% of ICU admissions. This study was designed to explore the nephroprotective potential of eco-synthesized quercetin–selenium nanoparticles (QUR-SeNPs) against experimentally glycerol-induced rhabdomyolysis leading to AKI. Forty healthy adult male albino rats were employed in the experiment. Animals were randomly distributed equally into five groups: Control: orally administered with normal saline solution. GLY: orally administered with normal saline (0.9% NaCl) for 15 consecutive days, at day 14, animals of this group received a single dose of intramuscular (im.) injection of 50% glycerol (GLY) (10 mg/kg/day). GLY and quercetin (GLY&QUR): orally administered with quercetin daily for 15 days (50 mg/kg/day), at day 14, animals of this group received a single dose of im. injection of 50% glycerol (10 mg/kg/day). GLY&Na2SeO3: orally administered with sodium selenite daily for 15 days (0.5 mg/kg/day), at day 14, animals of this group received a single dose of im. injection of 50% glycerol (10 mg/kg/day). GLY&QUR-SeNPs: orally administered with selenium nanoparticles synthesized using quercetin daily for 15 days (0.5 mg/kg/day), at day 14, animals of this group received a single dose of im. injection of 50% glycerol (10 mg/kg/day). Oxidative stress, inflammatory, and apoptotic markers, in addition to histopathological, gene expression, and immunohistochemical analysis, were assessed for all groups. The results demonstrated that QUR-SeNPs effectively ameliorated renal functional, biochemical, and molecular disturbances through their synergistic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic potential, surpassing the effects of either quercetin or selenium alone. Biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles using QUR-SeNPs demonstrated remarkable nephroprotective activity by normalizing renal biomarkers, restoring antioxidant capacity, inhibiting inflammatory cytokines, and preventing apoptotic damage. The nanoparticle formulation exhibited superior efficacy to either QUR or Se alone, highlighting the synergistic interplay between selenium and quercetin through enhanced bioavailability, redox stability, and molecular targeting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Antioxidants in Human Health and Diseases)
24 pages, 1110 KB  
Article
Preparation and Performance Characterization of Thixotropic Gelling Materials with High Temperature Stability and Wellbore Sealing Properties
by Yingbiao Liu, Xuyang Yao, Chuanming Xi, Kecheng Liu and Tao Ren
Polymers 2025, 17(24), 3343; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17243343 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
In response to the requirements of wellbore plugging and lost circulation control, this study designed and prepared a new type of thixotropic polymer gel system. The optimal formula was obtained through systematic screening of the types and concentrations of high molecular polymers, cross-linking [...] Read more.
In response to the requirements of wellbore plugging and lost circulation control, this study designed and prepared a new type of thixotropic polymer gel system. The optimal formula was obtained through systematic screening of the types and concentrations of high molecular polymers, cross-linking agents, flow pattern regulators, and resin curing agents. Comprehensive characterization of the gel’s gelling performance, thixotropic properties, high-temperature stability, shear resistance, and plugging capacity was conducted using methods such as the Sydansk bottle test, rheological testing, high-temperature aging experiments, plugging performance evaluation, as well as infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and thermogravimetric analysis, and its mechanism of action was revealed. The results show that the optimal formula is 1.2% AM-AA-AMPS terpolymer + 0.5% hydroquinone + 0.6% S-Trioxane + 0.8% modified montmorillonite + 14% modified phenolic resin. This gel system has a gelling time of 6 h, a gel strength reaching grade H, and a storage modulus of 62 Pa. It exhibits significant shear thinning characteristics in the shear rate range of 0.1~1000 s−1, with a viscosity recovery rate of 97.7% and a thixotropic recovery rate of 90% after shearing. It forms a complete gel at a high temperature of 160 °C, with a dehydration rate of only 8.5% and a storage modulus retention rate of 80% after aging at 140 °C for 7 days. Under water flooding conditions at 120 °C, the converted pressure-bearing capacity per 100 m reaches 24.0 MPa. Mechanism analysis confirms that the system forms a stable composite network through the synergistic effect of “covalent cross-linking—hydrogen bonding—physical adsorption”, providing a high-performance material solution for wellbore plugging in high-temperature and high-salt environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Polymer Gels for Oil Drilling and Enhanced Recovery)
17 pages, 3648 KB  
Article
Molecular Hybridization of Naphthoquinones as Selective Inhibitors of Shikimate Kinase: A Promising Strategy Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
by Beatriz C. T. de Oliveira, Dandara de Paula Candido, Acácio S. de Souza, Iva S. de Jesus, Fernando de C. da Silva, Leonardo Bruno P. F. Barreto, Samyra A. da Silveira, Yrneh Y. P. Palacios, Francisco das C. de Souza, Maria Cristina S. Lourenço, Carlos Mauricio R. Sant’Anna, Vitor F. Ferreira and Alcione S. de Carvalho
Drugs Drug Candidates 2025, 4(4), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc4040059 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical global health concern, exacerbated by the emergence of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In the search for novel therapeutic agents, naphthoquinones have garnered interest due to their diverse mechanisms of action and potent [...] Read more.
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical global health concern, exacerbated by the emergence of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In the search for novel therapeutic agents, naphthoquinones have garnered interest due to their diverse mechanisms of action and potent antimycobacterial activity. In this study, we report the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a novel series of eleven naphthoquinone-based derivatives (compounds 2232), developed through a molecular hybridization strategy targeting shikimate kinase (Mtb-SK) an essential enzyme present exclusively in M. tuberculosis. Methods: The compounds were synthesized via a straightforward and efficient synthetic route, and preliminary screening identified five molecules with significant anti-TB activity. Notably, compound 26, 4-(4-ethoxyphenyl) amino) Naphthalene-1,2-dione, exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 21.33 µM, comparable to ethambutol and substantially more potent than pyrazinamide. Results: Molecular docking studies indicated that all active compounds interact favorably within the shikimate binding pocket of Mtb-SK, following the proposed mechanism of action. Additionally, ongoing cytotoxicity assays in HepG2 cells aim to assess the selectivity of these derivatives. Conclusions: These findings support the potential of this new class of naphthoquinones as promising scaffolds for the development of anti-TB agents, contributing to the growing body of research focused on new chemotherapeutic options against tuberculosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Anti-Parasite Drug Discovery)
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24 pages, 2480 KB  
Article
Adenosine Triggers an ADK-Dependent Intracellular Signaling Pathway Interacts PFKFB3-Mediated Glycolytic Metabolism to Promote Newly Formed Myofibers Development
by Xiao Wu, Dawei Zeng, Baojia Wang, Jie Liu, Yue Zhang, Cong Huang, Qian Nie, Liangqin Shi and Yong Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412184 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Myopathy encompasses a group of diseases characterized by abnormalities in both muscle function and structure. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of newly formed myofiber development remain poorly defined. No promising therapeutic approach has been developed, but numerous medication options are available to alleviate [...] Read more.
Myopathy encompasses a group of diseases characterized by abnormalities in both muscle function and structure. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of newly formed myofiber development remain poorly defined. No promising therapeutic approach has been developed, but numerous medication options are available to alleviate symptoms. Our previous studies demonstrated that adenosine kinase (ADK) is critical in regulating adenosine metabolism, pathological angiogenesis, pathological vascular remodeling, and vascular inflammatory diseases. Adenosine dynamically distributes between extracellular and intracellular, and adenosine concentration regulates ADK expression. However, the mechanism by which adenosine triggers an ADK-dependent intracellular signaling pathway to regulate skeletal muscle regeneration is not well defined. This study aimed to evaluate whether the adenosine-induced intracellular signaling pathway is involved in regulating myopathy, and how it regulates the development of newly formed myofibers. In this study, an intramuscular injection of cardiotoxin was used to induce a skeletal muscle injury model; satellite cells and C2C12 cells were employed. Whether adenosine regulates satellite cell activity, new myofiber formation and differentiation, as well as fusion of myofibers, were determined by H&E staining, BrdU incorporation assay, and spheroid sprouting assay. Interaction between ADK and PFKFB3 was evaluated by IF staining, PPI network analysis, molecular docking simulation, and CO-immunoprecipitation assay. The results demonstrated that adenosine dynamically distributes between extracellular and intracellular through concentrative nucleoside transports or equilibrative nucleoside transporters, and it rapidly induces an ADK-dependent intracellular signaling pathway, which interacts with PFKFB3-mediated glycolytic metabolism to promote satellite cell activity, new myofiber formation, differentiation, and fusion, and eventually enhances skeletal muscle regeneration after injury stress. The remarkable endogenous regeneration capacity of skeletal muscle, which is regulated by adenosine-triggered intracellular signaling, presents a promising therapeutic strategy for treating muscle trauma and muscular dystrophies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
15 pages, 563 KB  
Article
Multi-Target Molecular Detection of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women Living with HIV in Northeastern Brazil
by Melina Vieira Alves, Letícia Alves dos Santos Silva, Maria Luísa Rodrigues Nolasco, Anny Beatriz de Oliveira Gama, Márcia Guimarães da Silva and Marcus Vinicius de Aragão Batista
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(12), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10120354 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Co-infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) facilitates cervical carcinogenesis, and additional cofactors such as other sexually transmitted infections (STI) further aggravate this scenario. This study aimed to validate a molecular detection strategy for Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and [...] Read more.
Co-infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) facilitates cervical carcinogenesis, and additional cofactors such as other sexually transmitted infections (STI) further aggravate this scenario. This study aimed to validate a molecular detection strategy for Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and to assess the association of these infections with cervical lesions in HPV-positive women living with HIV in Northeastern Brazil. In total, 155 samples were collected from CRIST/AIDS. After microorganism detection by conventional PCR, a multiplex PCR was standardized and validated. A prevalence of 9.03% was observed for C. trachomatis and 6.45% for T. vaginalis, with 0.64% co-infection. In addition, infection with both STIs showed a prevalence of 0.64%. Among HPV-positive women, high-risk genotypes accounted for 70.9% of cases, with HPV-16 being the most prevalent (35.5%). Overall, 18.2% of women presented cervical lesions, and 13.2% of those with co-detection of C. trachomatis and T. vaginalis were associated with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). These findings highlight the clinical relevance of screening for multiple STIs in HPV-positive women living with HIV and support the incorporation of multiplex molecular testing into public health strategies to improve early detection and targeted management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV Testing, Prevention and Care Interventions, 2nd Edition)
33 pages, 4027 KB  
Article
Characteristics of the Fatty Acid Composition in Elderly Patients with Occupational Pathology from Organophosphate Exposure
by Nikolay V. Goncharov, Elena I. Savelieva, Tatiana A. Koneva, Lyudmila K. Gustyleva, Irina A. Vasilieva, Mikhail V. Belyakov, Natalia G. Voitenko, Daria A. Belinskaia, Ekaterina A. Korf and Richard O. Jenkins
Diagnostics 2025, 15(24), 3246; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15243246 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The delayed effects of organophosphate poisoning may manifest years after exposure, often masked by age-related diseases. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to identify the biochemical “trace” that could remain in patients decades after poisoning. We determined a wide range [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The delayed effects of organophosphate poisoning may manifest years after exposure, often masked by age-related diseases. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to identify the biochemical “trace” that could remain in patients decades after poisoning. We determined a wide range of biochemical parameters, along with the spectrum of esterified and non-esterified fatty acids (EFAs and NEFAs, respectively), in the blood plasma of a cohort of elderly patients diagnosed with occupational pathology (OP) due to (sub)chronic exposure to organophosphates in the 1980s. Methods: Elderly patients with and without a history of exposure to organophosphates were retrospectively divided into two groups: controls (n = 59, aged 73 ± 4, men 29% and women 71%) and those with OP (n = 84, aged 74 ± 4, men 29% and women 71%). The period of neurological examination and blood sampling for subsequent analysis was from mid-2022 to the end of 2023. Determination of the content of biomarkers of metabolic syndrome, NEFAs, and EFAs in blood plasma was performed by HPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS. Results: The medical histories of the examined elderly individuals with OP and the aged control group included common age-related diseases. However, patients with OP more often had hepatitis, gastrointestinal diseases, polyneuropathy, and an increased BMI. Analysis of metabolic biomarkers revealed, in the OP group, a decrease in the concentrations of 3-hydroxybutyrate (p < 0.05), 2-hydroxybutyrate (p < 0.0001), and acetyl-L-carnitine (p < 0.001) and the activity of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) (p < 0.05), but an increase in the esterase activity of albumin (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed significant relationships between albumin esterase activity and arachidonic acid concentrations in the OP group (0.64, p < 0.0001). A study of a wide range of fatty acids in patients with OP revealed reciprocal relationships between EFAs and NEFAs. A statistically significant decrease in concentration was shown for esters of margaric, stearic, eicosadienoic, eicosatrienoic, arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic fatty acids. A statistically significant increase in concentration was shown for non-esterified heptadecenoic, eicosapentaenoic, eicosatrienoic, docosahexaenoic, γ-linolenic, myristic, eicosenoic, arachidonic, eicosadienoic, oleic, linoleic, palmitic, linoelaidic, stearic, palmitoleic, pentadecanoic, and margaric acids. Decreases in the ratios of omega-3 to other unsaturated fatty acids were observed only for the esterified forms. Conclusions: The data obtained allow us to consider an increased level of NEFAs as one of the main cytotoxic factors for the vascular endothelium. Modification of albumin properties and decreased bioavailability of docosahexaenoic acid could be molecular links that cause specific manifestations of OP-induced pathology at late stages after exposure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Factors for Frailty in Older Adults)
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20 pages, 706 KB  
Review
Research Progress on Genetic Factors of Poultry Egg Quality: A Review
by Liu Yang, Yang Yang, Yadi Jing, Meixia Zhang, Min Zhang, Shuer Zhang, Chao Qi, Weiqing Ma, Muhammad Zahoor Khan and Mingxia Zhu
Animals 2025, 15(24), 3652; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15243652 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Egg quality is a critical economic trait in poultry production, influencing consumer preference and production efficiency. The genetic and epigenetic regulation of egg quality involves complex biological pathways across various traits such as shell quality, albumen composition, and yolk biochemistry. This review synthesizes [...] Read more.
Egg quality is a critical economic trait in poultry production, influencing consumer preference and production efficiency. The genetic and epigenetic regulation of egg quality involves complex biological pathways across various traits such as shell quality, albumen composition, and yolk biochemistry. This review synthesizes recent advances in the genetic, molecular, and epigenetic mechanisms that determine poultry egg quality. Specifically, it focuses on external traits such as eggshell strength, color, and thickness, and internal traits including albumen height, yolk composition, and the Haugh unit. Through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and multi-omics approaches, key candidate genes such as OC-116, CALB1, CA2 (shell formation), OVAL, SPINK5, SERPINB14 (albumen quality), and FGF9, PIAS1, NOX5 (lipid metabolism) have been identified. These genes play a pivotal role in shell biomineralization, albumen protein regulation, and yolk lipid transport. This review also explores the heritability of these traits, emphasizing the challenges posed by polygenic architecture and the influence of environmental factors. Furthermore, it addresses the dynamic spatiotemporal regulation of egg quality traits, including epigenetic layers such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, RNA methylation, and post-translational protein modifications. This paper highlights the application of these findings to breeding programs via genomic selection, marker-assisted breeding, and epigenetic engineering approaches. Future directions for precision breeding and the development of functional eggs with enhanced quality are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
15 pages, 1358 KB  
Article
IntegrativeMulti-Omics Analysis of the Rumen in Tan Sheep with Contrasting Average Daily Gain
by Hao Zheng, Xiaohong Han, Wenjuan Shen, Xinrui Zhang, An Shi, Tonggao Liu, Chong Yang and Jinzhong Tao
Microorganisms 2025, 13(12), 2882; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13122882 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Understanding the drivers of average daily gain (ADG) is key to enhancing the productivity of Tan sheep. This study employed an integrated multi-omics approach to compare rumen microbial communities (16S rRNA sequencing) and metabolomic profiles between Tan sheep with high (HADG) and low [...] Read more.
Understanding the drivers of average daily gain (ADG) is key to enhancing the productivity of Tan sheep. This study employed an integrated multi-omics approach to compare rumen microbial communities (16S rRNA sequencing) and metabolomic profiles between Tan sheep with high (HADG) and low (LADG) ADG. The novelty of this work lies in the systems-level identification of functional linkages between specific rumen bacteria and metabolites that underlie divergent growth phenotypes. The results revealed no significant difference in initial body weight between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, the HADG group showed significantly higher final body weight (p < 0.05), markedly greater ADG and Average Daily Dry Matter Intake (ADFI) (p < 0.01), and a substantially lower FCR (p < 0.01). Plasma Total Antioxidant Capacity (T-AOC) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly elevated in the HADG group (p < 0.05), while Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). In contrast, plasma Globulin (GLB), Glucose (GLU), and Triglycerides (TG) concentrations were significantly lower in HADG sheep (p < 0.05). Rumen metabolomics identified 265 differentially abundant metabolites between groups, with 64 down-regulated and 201 up-regulated in LADG compared to HADG sheep. These metabolites were significantly enriched in tyrosine metabolism, β-alanine metabolism, and thiamine metabolism pathways. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified 15 key differential metabolites, including succinic acid, 2-hydroxyglutarate, and pyridoxal phosphate. 16S rRNA sequencing indicated significant differences in microbial genera such as UCG-002, Blautia, norank_f__Bacteroidales_UCG-001, and norank_f__norank_o__Rhodospirillales. Correlation analysis revealed that UCG-002 and norank_f__Bacteroidales_UCG-001 were highly negatively correlated with succinic acid (p < 0.01), and significantly negatively correlated with 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid, pyridoxal phosphate, and 2-hydroxyglutarate (p < 0.05). Conversely, beta-alanine, ureidoacrylic acid, L-proline, and 2′-deoxyguanosine showed a highly significant positive correlation with norank_f__Bacteroidales_UCG-001 (p < 0.01), and a significant positive correlation with UCG-002 (p < 0.05). These findings elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind growth differences in Tan sheep and provide actionable insights for developing targeted nutritional strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiomes)
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15 pages, 1984 KB  
Article
Proteome Insights into the Watercore Disorder on Pineapple Discovered Resistant Germplasm-Specific Accumulation of Cell Wall-Modifying and Defense Proteins
by Dan Wang, Yanli Yao, Qian Yang, Cunzhi Peng, Lili Chang, Qingsong Wu, Xiaoqin Mo, Bingqiang Xu and Zheng Tong
Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121540 - 18 Dec 2025
Abstract
Watercore disease, a physiological disorder in pineapple (Ananas comosus), manifests during late fruit development. Affected fruits develop water-soaked flesh and reduced storability. (1) Background: To explore underlying molecular mechanisms, comparative proteomic profiling was conducted in this study. (2) Methods: Data-independent acquisition [...] Read more.
Watercore disease, a physiological disorder in pineapple (Ananas comosus), manifests during late fruit development. Affected fruits develop water-soaked flesh and reduced storability. (1) Background: To explore underlying molecular mechanisms, comparative proteomic profiling was conducted in this study. (2) Methods: Data-independent acquisition (DIA) strategy was employed for comparative analysis between the resistant germplasm “35-1” and the susceptible germplasm “29-3”, as well as between the healthy and diseased “Paris”. (3) Results: Resistant (“35-1”) versus susceptible (“29-3”) germplasm analysis revealed differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and unique proteins (SEPs) enriched in cell walls, secretory vesicles, and apoplast, functioning in cell wall loosening, hormone response, isoflavonoid biosynthesis, and farnesyl diphosphate biosynthesis. Healthy versus diseased “Paris” pulp analysis showed DEPs/SEPs enrichment in ribosomal small subunit biogenesis. These proteins form a central regulatory network potentially orchestrating tRNA synthesis, tubulin biosynthesis, and other carbohydrate metabolism. Partial protein overlap occurred in germplasm- and disease-derived differences. Resistant germplasm (“35-1”) and healthy “Paris” accumulated stress-responsive/resistant proteins and cell wall-modifying enzymes (e.g., phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, raffinose synthase, expansins, and mannan hydrolase). Susceptible germplasm (“29-3”) and diseased “Paris” exhibited prominent stress-responsive protein accumulation, such as alcohol dehydrogenase, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate oxidase, and hypoxia-induced protein. (4) Conclusions: This comparative proteomics study identifies pineapple watercore resistance/susceptibility-associated proteins, providing a molecular basis for resistant germplasm development and disorder control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Pathology and Disease Management (PPDM))
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