Search Results (2,884)

Steviol glycosides (SGs) are high-intensity, zero-calorie natural sweeteners with demonstrated safety and potential health benefits, positioning them as ideal sucrose substitutes for metabolic disorder management. However, their broad application is limited by inherent drawbacks such as bitterness, low solubility, and inefficient production systems. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent advances in SG research, covering their sources, properties, and bioactivities. A particular focus is placed on innovative bioproduction strategies—including enzyme engineering, metabolic pathway optimization, and sustainable extraction techniques. Strategies to overcome these challenges through sensory-function enhancement—including formulation and structural modification—are discussed. Furthermore, it highlights emerging trends like microbial chassis-based production and next-generation sweetener design, providing actionable insights for overcoming industrial bottlenecks. By integrating multidisciplinary advances in bioengineering, sensory science, and sustainable processing, this review offers a forward-looking perspective on the development and application of SGs as functional sweeteners in the global food industry. Full article

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Although pharmacological treatments are widely used, their effects are often limited, and nearly half of patients show resistance to current antidepressants, including those unresponsive to all available therapies. These challenges highlight the need to better understand the neurobiological mechanisms driving MDD and to develop novel therapeutic strategies, especially those involving natural compounds with multitarget actions. Baicalin, a bioactive flavonoid from Scutellaria baicalensis, exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties and has recently gained attention for its potential to improve cognitive deficits and mood disorders. In this study, we investigated baicalin’s antidepressant potential and its underlying mechanisms across multiple experimental levels. We found that oral administration of baicalin produced antidepressant-like effects in both naïve mice and those subjected to chronic restraint stress (CRS). CRS impaired hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), whereas baicalin restored these synaptic deficits. Importantly, intra-dorsal hippocampal microinjection of the TrkB receptor antagonist ANA-12 abolished baicalin’s antidepressant effects, indicating the involvement of BDNF–TrkB signaling. Baicalin also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS)/H₂O₂ production in a BDNF-associated manner, demonstrating clear antioxidant activity. Molecular docking further suggested that baicalin binds more effectively to the TrkB receptor than ANA-12, supporting its capacity to activate TrkB-mediated signaling. By integrating in vivo, ex vivo, in vitro, and in silico approaches, our study shows that baicalin exerts robust antioxidant in vitro and antidepressant effects in vivo. These benefits are primarily mediated through activation of BDNF–TrkB signaling, leading to reduced ROS/H₂O₂ accumulation and alleviation of CRS-induced depression-like behaviors. Full article

Background: The current rise in multidrug-resistant pathogens highlights the urgent need for the discovery of novel antibacterial agents with potential clinical applications. A considerable proportion of these developed resistances may be attributable to the intrinsic response of bacteria to antibiotic-induced stress conditions in the environment. Consequently, the identification and characterization of genetic alterations in physiological processes in response to antibiotics represent promising strategies for the discovery and characterization of naturally produced novel antibacterial agents. This study investigated the antimicrobial activity of an antimicrobial active isolate Actinomadura coerulea derived from a meerkat fecal sample. Methods: The production of secondary metabolites that potentially compromise bacterial cell wall integrity was confirmed by the induction of promoter activity in whole-cell biosensors in which an antibiotic-inducible promoter was fused to the luciferase cassette. During plate-based biosensor assays, we identified naturally resistant Bacillus subtilis colonies growing in the zone of inhibition around A. coerulea colonies. After these successive rounds of selection, highly resistant spontaneous B. subtilis mutants had evolved that were subjected to whole-genome sequencing. Results: Non-silent mutations were identified in pssA, which encodes a phosphatidylserine synthase; mdtR, as a gene for the repressor of multidrug resistance proteins, and yhbD, whose function is still unknown. A new cinnamycin-like molecule, coerumycin, was discovered based on the physiological role of PssA and comprehensive genomic analysis of A. coerulea. Additional experiments with cell extracts containing coerumycin as well as the cinnamycin-like compound duramycin confirmed that the interaction between coerumycin and the bacterial cell envelope is inhibited by a loss-of-function mutation in pssA. Conclusion: Our approach demonstrates that combining the exploration of niche habitats for actinomycetes with whole-cell biosensor screening and characterization of natural resistance development provides a promising strategy for identifying novel antibiotics. Full article

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, and its initiation and progression are closely associated with multiple molecular mechanisms. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are mesh-like structures composed of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins that are released by neutrophils during inflammation or infection. They play a crucial role in innate immune defense. However, when the dynamic balance of NETs is disrupted by excessive formation, persistent accumulation, or impaired clearance, NETs are no longer merely bystanders. Instead, they actively drive pathological processes in multiple CVDs and serve as a critical link between inflammation and cardiovascular injury. Given the central role of NETs in CVD pathogenesis, including atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury, pulmonary arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure, therapeutic strategies targeting NETs, such as inhibiting aberrant formation, enhancing clearance, or neutralizing toxic components, have emerged as promising approaches. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural products have shown potential therapeutic value by modulating NET formation and promoting NET degradation, owing to their multitarget, multipathway regulatory effects. This article reviews the mechanisms by which NETs operate in CVDs and explores potential pathways through which TCM and natural active ingredients prevent and treat CVDs by regulating NETs. This review provides theoretical support for further research and clinical application. Full article

Upcycled foods (UFs) are foods that are produced from ingredients that would otherwise be wasted and are considered a sustainable solution to the issue of food waste. However, since consumers’ responses to these foods will ultimately determine their success, there is a need to identify the factors that affect such responses. This systematic review is intended to contribute to fulfilling this need. A literature search was conducted in Scopus on 10 July 2025. Following the PRISMA protocol and setting selected inclusion criteria (scientific papers on consumer evaluation of UFs published since 2010 in English), 54 research articles (83 studies) were analyzed. The findings are discussed through the lens of the Total Food Quality model, where product cues, combined with consumers’ characteristics and perceptions, develop consumers’ ultimate responses, such as general attitude (analyzed in 91.7% of the reviewed studies), purchase intention (77.4%), sensory evaluation (69.2%), and willingness to pay (66.7%). Despite the general positive consumer attitudes toward UFs, translation into actual purchasing behavior is not immediate, and consumer awareness appears to be a major obstacle. However, the analysis of the literature suggests promising strategies to widen the acceptance and consumption of UFs. These entail the use, for example, of informational tools (e.g., claims and certifications), which can be differentiated to target consumers with different levels of knowledge and appreciation of UFs. In addition, targeting specific consumer segments (e.g., environmentalists) can promote a faster acceptance and spread of UFs, while providing information about the nature of UFs will likely help to reduce relevant barriers, such as price sensitivity, risk aversion, and food and technology neophobia. Full article

Tylorrhynchus heterochaetus is an aquatic food with both edible and medicinal value in China. With a protein-rich body wall, it has strong potential for producing bioactive peptides. To explore its potential as a source of immunomodulatory peptides, in this study, flavor enzymes were selected as the optimal hydrolases, and the hydrolyzed products were subjected to ultrafiltration fractionation. The <3000 Da portion exhibited the most effective immune-stimulating activity in RAW 264.7 macrophages, enhancing phagocytosis and promoting the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and nitric oxide (NO) in a concentration dependent manner. Peptide omics analysis, combined with the activity and safety screened by bioinformatics, identified 43 candidate peptides. Molecular docking predicts that three novel peptides, LPWDPL, DDFVFLR and LPVGPLFN, exhibit strong binding affinity with toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor-2 (TLR4/MD-2) receptors through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic/π stacking interactions. Synthetic verification confirmed that these peptides were not only non-toxic to cells at concentrations ranging from 62.5 to 1000 µg/mL, but also effective in activating macrophages and stimulating the release of immune mediators. This study successfully identified the specific immunomodulatory peptides of the Tylorrhynchus heterochaetus, supporting its high-value utilization as a natural source of raw materials for immunomodulatory functional foods. Full article

Micronutrients, particularly boron (B), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), are pivotal for cotton (Gossypium spp.) growth, reproductive success, and fiber quality. However, their critical roles are often overlooked in fertility programs focused primarily on macronutrients. This review synthesizes recent advances in the physiological, molecular, and agronomic understanding of B, Fe, Mn, and Zn in cotton production. The overarching goal is to elucidate their impact on cotton nutrient use efficiency (NUE). Drawing from the peer-reviewed literature, we highlight how these micronutrients regulate essential processes, including photosynthesis, cell wall integrity, hormone signaling, and stress remediation. These processes directly influence root development, boll retention, and fiber quality. As a result, deficiencies in these micronutrients contribute to significant yield gaps even when macronutrients are sufficiently supplied. Key genes, including Boron Transporter 1 (BOR1), Iron-Regulated Transporter 1 (IRT1), Natural Resistance-Associated Macrophage Protein 1 (NRAMP1), Zinc-Regulated Transporter/Iron-Regulated Transporter-like Protein (ZIP), and Gossypium hirsutum Zinc/Iron-regulated transporter-like Protein 3 (GhZIP3), are crucial for mediating micronutrient uptake and homeostasis. These genes can be leveraged in breeding for high-yielding, nutrient-efficient cotton varieties. In addition to molecular hacks, advanced phenotyping technologies, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq; a technology that measures gene expression at single-cell level, enabling the high-resolution analysis of cellular diversity and the identification of rare cell types), provide novel avenues for identifying nutrient-efficient genotypes and elucidating regulatory networks. Future research directions should include leveraging microRNAs, CRISPR-based gene editing, and precision nutrient management to enhance the use efficiency of B, Fe, Mn, and Zn. These approaches are essential for addressing environmental challenges and closing persistent yield gaps within sustainable cotton production systems. Full article

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) has long been used in traditional Southeast Asian medicine to treat inflammatory-related conditions. In this study, three new compounds, including garcimangone A (1), garcimangone B (2), and the S-form of garcimangone C (3), and 18 known compounds were isolated and investigated for their anti-inflammatory properties and effects on M1- and M2-associated markers. Among the isolated components, γ-mangostin (5), garcinone D (6), morusignin J (15), and fuscaxanthone C (16) showed the most potent NO-inhibitory effects in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. SAR study revealed that chromeno moiety at C-3,4, oxygen substituents at C-1,3,6,7, and isoprenyl groups at C-2,8 are key structural features that promoted anti-inflammatory activity. Cytokine analysis results indicated that morusignin J (15) and fuscaxanthone C (16) could modulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, while modulating the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Western blot results demonstrated that morusignin J (15) modulated the inflammatory response through NF-κB and MAPK signaling and increased the expression of M2-associated markers KLF4 and arginase-1 in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Further molecular docking analysis confirmed the high binding affinity of morusignin J (15) with key iNOS residues, such as Gln257, Pro344, Glu371, and Hem901, and the in silico prediction supported its potent oral bioavailability and drug-likeness. These in vitro and in silico findings highlight that pericarps of G. mangostana possess potential as promising natural sources for functional extracts and bioactive constituents for the development of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory candidates, and warrant further in vivo investigation in the future. Full article

There are a vast number of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against biological components; however, the number for natural products is less than 50. MAbs against ginsenosides, i.e., dammarane triterpene glycosides contained in ginseng, were prepared to develop an Eastern blotting method that can estimate the number of bound sugars and pharmacological activity. Meanwhile, as a method for producing ginsenoside Rg3, which is used as an anti-cancer drug, an affinity column for ginsenoside Rb1 was prepared to isolate the raw material ginsenoside Rb1 in a single step, and a method for obtaining ginsenoside Rg3 through fermentation was proposed. A unique MAb capable of detecting all solasodine glycosides contained in Solanum plants was created to prepare an affinity column capable of isolating solasodine glycosides from S. khasianum fruit in a single step. The single-chain variable fragment gene was induced from the MAb against solasodine glycoside and introduced into the hairy root system of S. khasianum, thereby increasing the solasodine glycoside content more than twofold. As a result, we recognized that this method can be used to breed plants with higher concentrations of plant secondary metabolites like solasodine glycosides. The above results collectively demonstrate that solasodine glycoside can be isolated from S. khasianum in high yields and that this compound enables the production of steroids in high yields through a one-step chemical reaction. Full article

The passage of a premixed stoichiometric methane-air flame through a hole in an internal barrier in a Hele-Shaw channel with one end closed was studied experimentally. It was found that for the same initial conditions, a flame propagating from the closed channel end can either pass through the hole in the barrier or be extinguished. The passage probability dependence on the hole width was found to be non-monotonic, with a sharp maximum at small hole sizes, followed by a minimum at intermediate sizes and a gradual increase as the blockage ratio tends to zero. The nature of this non-monotonic behavior of flame passage probability was analyzed by analyzing the flame front histories leading to flame passage or extinction at the same experimental parameters. A likely cause of this behavior is the development of an alternating-direction gas jet blowing from the hole due to the pressure difference between the channel compartments. Cooling of hot combustion products with cold channel walls can cause a pressure drop in the closed channel part and development of a reverse (open-to-closed compartment) gas jet affecting the approaching flame. Therefore, flame passage or extinguishment is a feature of the whole two-chamber system, rather than an intrinsic flame property. Full article

Nystatin is a polyene macrolide antibiotic with broad-spectrum antifungal activity and serves as a key therapeutic agent for superficial fungal infections. This review systematically elaborates on its multicomponent chemical nature, its mechanism of action targeting ergosterol, and highlights the potential adverse effects, such as cardiotoxicity, associated with impurities like RT6 (albonoursin). The fundamental analytical techniques for quality control are outlined. Furthermore, the clinical applications and combination therapy strategies of nystatin in treating oral diseases, vaginitis, and otitis externa are summarized in detail. Regarding biosynthesis, the assembly mechanism of nystatin A₁ via the type I polyketide synthase pathway and its subsequent modification processes are thoroughly discussed. Emphasis is placed on the latest advances and potential of gene-editing technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, in the targeted knockout of genes responsible for toxic components and in optimizing production strains to enhance nystatin yield and purity. Finally, this review prospects the future development of nystatin towards improved safety and efficacy through structural optimization, innovative delivery systems, and synthetic biology strategies, aiming to provide a reference for its further research and clinical application. Full article

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is increasingly attracting the attention of Mediterranean farmers due to its broad environmental adaptability and low input requirements. Although still relatively underexplored, this species holds remarkable potential as a source of natural dyes and bioactive phytochemicals with recognized health-promoting and phytotherapeutic properties. In this study, the effects of genotype and sowing time on safflower’s productive and qualitative traits were investigated by testing six genotypes and two sowing times (autumn and spring) in an open-field trial conducted in central Tuscany. The Pieve genotype achieved the highest floret dry yield per head, number of heads per plant, and total floret yield per plant, whereas the Montola 2000 genotype was distinguished by its elevated polyphenol concentration and pronounced antioxidant activity. Autumn sowing resulted in higher yields of bioactive pigments, including carthamin and yellow quinochalcones, alongside greater total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Conversely, spring sowing appeared to limit pigment biosynthesis, likely due to environmental stressors such as elevated temperature and excessive light exposure. Overall, these findings highlight the strong influence of genotype and sowing time on the accumulation of health-beneficial compounds in safflower. By optimizing these factors, safflower can be strategically valorized as a multipurpose crop in the Mediterranean region, combining economic and environmental sustainability with the production of natural compounds of high nutraceutical and phytotherapeutic value. Full article

Agriculture faces increasing challenges in ensuring food security under a changing climate, where abiotic stresses such as salinity and drought represent major constraints to crop productivity. These stresses induce complex physiological and biochemical alterations in plants, including osmotic imbalance, oxidative damage, and disruption of metabolic pathways, ultimately impairing growth and yield. In this context, the application of biostimulants has emerged as a sustainable strategy to enhance plant resilience. While synthetic products are widely available, growing attention is being directed toward natural bio-based products, particularly those derived from renewable biomasses and organic wastes, in line with circular economy principles. This review critically examines the current literature on bio-based products with biostimulant properties, with particular emphasis on vermicompost-derived extracts, humic-like substances, and macro- and microalgae extracts, focusing on their role in mitigating salt and drought stress in plants. The reviewed studies consistently demonstrate that these bio-products enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stress by modulating key physiological and biochemical processes, including hormonal regulation, activation of antioxidant defence systems, accumulation of osmoprotectants, and regulation of secondary metabolism. Moreover, evidence indicates that these bio-based inputs can improve nutrient use efficiency, photosynthetic performance, and overall plant growth under stress conditions. Overall, this review highlights the potential of non-microbial bio-based biostimulants as effective and sustainable tools for climate-resilient agriculture, while also underlining the need for further research to standardize formulations, clarify mechanisms of action, and validate their performance under field conditions. Full article

Port wine production involves the addition of grape spirit to halt fermentation and retain natural sweetness. This spirit, produced by distilling wine and its by-products, must comply with legal standards, including a mandatory sensory assessment. Because grape spirit influences Port wine’s volatile composition, this study investigated the odour-active compounds present in several grape spirits intended for fortification. Volatile compounds were extracted by liquid–liquid extraction, concentrated, and analysed using gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC-O) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In GC-O, based on frequency detection, a panel of assessors sniffed the extracts to determine the presence of aroma compounds. The results revealed a wide range of odour-active compounds in grape spirits, belonging to several chemical families such as esters, alcohols, terpenic compounds and acids. These compounds exhibited both pleasant aromas, such as fruity, floral and caramel notes as well as undesirable ones like cheese and foot odour. Most of these compounds originate from the fermentation process and are also found in other unaged distilled beverages, including young Cognac, Calvados and fruit spirits. This research highlights the aromatic complexity of grape spirits and, for the first time, determined the aroma thresholds for 25 of 36 the compounds studied at an ethanol content of 20%. Full article

Harnessing nature’s ingenuity with microorganisms for industrial production is an attractive solution to today’s climate concerns. Nature’s innate diversity allows the production of many value-added chemicals and can be expanded on through genetic engineering. Although the use of microbial cell factories (MCFs) has been extremely successful at lab scale, the numbers of successful bioprocesses remain limited. High cell densities and long cultivation times lead to reductions in productivity over the course of the cultivation through the effects of genetic and expression instability of the strain. This instability leads to population diversification. In this review, we explore the roots of genetic instability in microorganisms, focusing on prokaryotic bioprocesses, and how organisms cope with this instability. We spotlight single-cell detection methods capable of monitoring populations within the bioprocess both in- and on-line. We also examine different approaches to minimizing population diversification, both through strain development and bioprocess engineering. With this review, we highlight the fact that population-averaged metrics overlook the single-cell stresses driving genetic and functional instability, leading to an overestimation of microbial bioprocess robustness. High-throughput single-cell monitoring in industry-like conditions remains essential to identify and select truly stable microbial cell factories and bioprocesses. Full article