Search Results (502)

Cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and effective strategies for cancer prevention are urgently needed to complement therapeutic advances. While dietary factors are known to influence cancer risk, the molecular mechanisms that mediate inter-individual responses to nutritional exposures remain poorly defined. Emerging evidence identifies long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as pivotal regulators of gene expression, chromatin organization, metabolic homeostasis, immune signaling, and cellular stress responses, the core processes that drive cancer initiation and progression and are highly sensitive to nutritional status. In parallel, advances in precision nutrition have highlighted how variability in genetics, metabolism, microbiome composition, and epigenetic landscapes shape dietary influences on cancer susceptibility. This review integrates these rapidly evolving fields by positioning lncRNAs as molecular conduits that translate dietary exposures into transcriptional and epigenetic programs governing cancer development, progression, and therapeutic vulnerability. We provide mechanistic evidence demonstrating how dietary bioactive compounds and micronutrients, including polyphenols [such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)], flavonoids, alkaloids such as berberine, omega-3 (ω-3) fatty acids, folate, vitamin D, probiotic metabolites (such as butyrate and propionate), and trace elements (such as selenium and zinc), modulate oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs. These nutrient–lncRNA interactions influence cancer-relevant pathways controlling proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic rewiring. We further discuss emerging lncRNA signatures that reflect nutritional and metabolic states, their potential utility as biomarkers for individualized dietary interventions, and their integration into liquid biopsy platforms. Leveraging multi-omics datasets and systems biology, we outline AI-driven frameworks to map nutrient–lncRNA regulatory networks and identify targetable nodes for cancer chemoprevention. Finally, we address translational challenges, including compound bioavailability, inter-individual variability, and limited clinical validation, and propose future directions for incorporating lncRNA profiling into precision nutrition-guided cancer prevention trials. Together, these insights position lncRNAs at the nexus of diet and cancer biology and establish a foundation for mechanistically informed precision nutrition strategies in cancer chemoprevention. Full article

Coccidiosis, caused by an obligate intracellular parasite of the genus Eimeria, is the most economically parasitic disease in poultry. Long-term reliance on synthetic anticoccidials and ionophores has accelerated the emergence of drug resistance and intensified the need for effective, residue-free alternatives. This narrative review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed studies published between 1998 and 2025, summarizing advances in non-antibiotic control strategies encompassing five domains: (i) phytochemicals and botanicals, (ii) functional nutrition and mineral modulators, (iii) microbial and gut modulators, (iv) host-directed immunological and biotechnological approaches, and (v) precision and omics-guided biotherapeutic platforms. These approaches consistently reduce lesion severity, oocyst shedding, oxidative stress, and mortality while improving growth parameters in a variety of Eimeria models. However, translation to field settings remains constrained by variable bioactive composition, limited standardization, inadequate pharmacokinetic data, and the scarcity of large-scale, multi-farm validation studies. This review provides a concise summary of current evidence and delineates critical knowledge gaps to guide the development, optimization, and deployment of next-generation anticoccidial strategies. Together, natural products and emerging biotechnologies provide a promising foundation for sustainable, high-welfare, antibiotic-independent coccidiosis control. Full article

The still-growing demand for nutritious gluten-free products necessitates the development of a composite flour that addresses the nutritional deficiencies common in conventional gluten-free formulations. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize brown teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) composite flours at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% soybean inclusion levels (w/w) to establish evidence-based formulation guidelines for future products. Proximate composition, antioxidant properties (total polyphenol content—TPC, antioxidant capacity vs. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical—DPPH and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical—ABTS, ferric reducing antioxidant power—FRAP), particle size distribution, pasting properties, color characteristics, and molecular fingerprints (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy—FTIR) were evaluated. A principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify compositional–functional relationships. Soybean inclusion significantly enhanced protein content from 9.93% (pure teff) to 23.07% (60:40 blend, dry matter), fat from 2.14% to 10.47%, and fiber from 3.43% to 6.72%. The antioxidant capacity increased proportionally with soybean content, with a 40% inclusion yielding FRAP values of 5.19 mg FeSO₄/g DM and TPC of 3.44 mg GAE/g DM. However, pasting viscosity decreased notably from 12,198.00 mPa·s (pure teff) to 129.00 mPa·s (60:40 blend), indicating a reduced gel-forming capacity caused by soybean addition. PCA revealed that nutritional composition (PC1: 70.6% variance) and pasting properties (PC2: 21.0% variance) vary independently, suggesting non-additive functional behavior in blends. Brown teff–soybean blends at a 20–30% soybean inclusion optimize the balance between protein enhancement, antioxidant preservation, and the maintenance of functional properties suitable for traditional applications, providing a nutritionally superior alternative for gluten-free product development. Full article

Background and Objectives: Pneumonia is a leading cause of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and is associated with high mortality, particularly among patients with multiple comorbidities. Accurate early risk stratification is essential for guiding clinical decision-making in critically ill patients. However, the prognostic benefit of combining clinical scoring systems with nutritional and endothelial stress indices in ICU patients with pneumonia remains unclear. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, single-center cohort study included adult patients admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of pneumonia between 1 January 2023 and 1 July 2025. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, clinical variables, laboratory parameters, and prognostic scores were obtained from electronic medical records. The National Early Warning Score (NEWS), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), and Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) were calculated at ICU admission. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine variables associated with in-hospital mortality. The discriminative performance of individual and combined prognostic models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: A total of 221 patients were included; 79 (35.7%) survived and 142 (64.3%) died during hospitalization. Non-survivors had significantly higher NEWS and EASIX values and lower PNI values compared with survivors (all p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, endotracheal intubation (OR: 12.46; p < 0.001), inotropic use (OR: 5.14; p = 0.001), and serum lactate levels (OR: 1.75; p = 0.003) were identified as being independently associated with in-hospital mortality. Models combining NEWS with PNI or EASIX demonstrated improved discriminatory performance. Conclusions: In critically ill patients with pneumonia, integrating NEWS with nutritional and endothelial stress indices provides numerically improved discrimination compared with NEWS alone, although the incremental gain did not reach statistical significance. Full article

Background/Objectives: Poor dietary habits are a major contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the leading cause of mortality worldwide. To promote healthier eating, governments and stakeholders have implemented various nutrition policies, including front-of-pack nutrition labeling (FOPNL). The Choices International Foundation (Choices), through its criteria, supports these efforts through its standardized nutrient profiling system (NPS). Originally developed to underpin a positive FOPNL logo, in 2021, the criteria were expanded into a globally oriented five-level profiling system covering 23 basic and 10 discretionary food groups, addressing key nutrients such as trans-fatty acids, saturated fat, sodium, sugar, fiber, and energy. To ensure continued scientific relevance, the Choices criteria are periodically reviewed by an independent International Scientific Committee (ISC). Methods: This paper presents the 2025 revision of the Choices criteria, focusing on priority areas identified through stakeholder consultation and recent scientific developments. Results: Key updates include the introduction of nutrient-based equivalence criteria for plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy, based on protein and selected micronutrient thresholds. Non-sugar sweeteners (NSSs) were newly included as a factor that lowers a product’s health classification and makes it ineligible for a positive FOPNL. Additionally, the industrially produced trans-fatty acid (iTFA) criteria were revised and aligned with the latest World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, improving both technical feasibility and policy coherence. While options for incorporating whole-grain and micronutrient criteria were explored, these were not included in the current revision. Conclusions: The 2025 update system enhances the scientific rigor, policy alignment, and global applicability of the Choices system. By providing a harmonized and evidence-based tool, it aims to support national policies that foster healthier food environments and, ultimately, improve public health outcomes worldwide. Full article

This study evaluated the impact of hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) versus conventional thermal processing (TT) for the valorization of fruit and vegetable surpluses, using optimized purees of carrot, banana, yacón, beetroot, and gulupa. HC-treated purees consistently preserved bioactive compounds, with vitamin C retention in purple carrot puree reaching 6.8 ± 0.6 mg/100 g, compared to only 0.6 ± 0.0 mg/100 g after thermal treatment. Total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity (FRAP up to 2580 ± 126 μmol Eq-Trolox/100 g, DPPH inhibition up to 88.72% ± 0.80) were similarly superior with HC. While HC resulted in noticeably higher grumosity and fibrosity, limiting acceptance, TT improved sensory sweetness but degraded nutritional quality, causing up to 80% losses of vitamin C and bioactives. The findings confirm that HC is an effective non-thermal strategy for converting agri-food surpluses into functional ingredient bases, maximizing nutritional retention and energetic efficiency and supporting sustainable circular food systems. Full article

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) arises from complex genetic and environmental influences. Despite its prevalence and being the focus of study for several decades, its causes and their underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. However, one consistent causal mechanism of interest is epigenetic modification. While some risk factors, such as maternal stress, nutrition, and environmental toxins, have a more established epigenetic connection, early-life stress (ELS) in the postnatal years is less studied but may be just as impactful in terms of phenotypic outcomes. A major intermediary between ELS and ASD is likely the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis), which has been shown to be epigenetically modified by ELS and whose genes and dysfunction overlap with ASD genes and symptoms. In this narrative review, we synthesize human and animal evidence to examine the relationships between ELS and ASD through epigenetic regulation of a non-exhaustive list of autism candidate genes involved in the HPA axis, including NR3C1, FKBP5, MECP2, GAD1, RELN, SHANK3, OXTR, and BDNF. We discuss how ELS-induced epigenetics may modulate HPA axis negative feedback, and how epigenetic alterations in this pathway and associated genes could affect ASD phenotypes. Full article

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are strongly influenced by dietary habits. Beyond caloric intake, nutrients act as molecular signals that regulate cardiac metabolism, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and epigenetic remodeling. Objectives: This review aims to synthesize current evidence on how dietary patterns and specific nutritional interventions regulate cardiac metabolism and function through interconnected molecular and epigenetic mechanisms, highlighting their relevance for cardiovascular disease prevention. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies published between 2006 and 2025. Experimental, translational, and clinical studies addressing diet-induced modulation of cardiac metabolic pathways, oxidative and inflammatory signaling, epigenetic regulation, and gut microbiota-derived metabolites were included. Results: The analyzed literature consistently shows that unbalanced diets rich in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates impair cardiac metabolic flexibility by disrupting key nutrient-sensing pathways, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and sirtuin 1/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (SIRT1/PGC-1α), leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and maladaptive remodeling. In contrast, cardioprotective dietary patterns, such as caloric restriction (CR), intermittent fasting (IF), and Mediterranean and plant-based diets, enhance mitochondrial efficiency, redox balance, and metabolic adaptability. These effects are mediated by coordinated activation of AMPK-SIRT1 signaling, suppression of mTOR over-activation, modulation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways, and favorable epigenetic remodeling involving DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Emerging evidence also highlights the central role of gut microbiota-derived metabolites, particularly short-chain fatty acids, in linking diet to epigenetic and metabolic regulation of cardiac function. Conclusions: Diet quality emerges as a key determinant of cardiac metabolic health, acting through integrated molecular, epigenetic, and microbiota-mediated mechanisms. Targeted nutritional strategies can induce long-lasting cardioprotective metabolic and epigenetic adaptations, supporting the concept of diet as a modifiable molecular intervention. These findings provide a mechanistic rationale for integrating personalized nutrition into cardiovascular prevention and precision cardiology, complementing standard pharmacological therapies. Full article

Objectives: Lung cancer remains as the most common cause of cancer-related death. The possible relationships between inflammatory markers and lung cancer prognosis have yet to be clarified. In this study, we aimed to assess and compare various inflammatory markers and prognostic tests for their role in predicting mortality in patients with lung cancer who were admitted to the intensive care unit. Methods: A total of 229 patients diagnosed with small cell or non-small cell lung cancer who attended follow-up after treatment were included. The predictive performance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), Prognostic nutritional index (PNI), APACHE II score, and MPM II-Admission (Mortality Probability Models II-0) were assessed in terms of mortality status. We also performed multivariable logistic regression to determine whether any of these parameters were independently associated with mortality. Results: We included 229 patients into our study; the mean age was 66.17 ± 11.89 years. Among these, 135 (58.95%) patients died and 94 (41.05%) patients were discharged. When we evaluated the performance of the prognostic scores in predicting mortality, we found mGPS, MPM II-Admission, and APACHE II scores had the highest sensitivity, and MPM II-Admission, PNI, and APACHE II scores had the highest specificity. Multivariable regression revealed that PNI was the only inflammation-related parameter that was independently associated with mortality. Conclusions: PNI, APACHE-II, and MPM II-Admission may be used as easily accessible tests for mortality estimation in lung cancer patients admitted to the ICU. Full article

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women globally, with survival rates improving due to earlier detection and better treatment. As a result, cancer survivors now constitute a growing segment of the population, and addressing their long-term health and well-being is a public health priority. Diet and nutrition represent modifiable factors that may influence recurrence, comorbidities, and quality of life (QoL), yet clear evidence-based guidance remains limited. This umbrella review thus synthesized evidence from published reviews on the effects of dietary and nutrition interventions among breast cancer survivors. Methods: Following a prospectively registered protocol in PROSPERO (CRD420251185022), six databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO and CINAHL) were systematically searched for systematic reviews/meta-analyses evaluating dietary or nutrition interventions in adult breast cancer survivors. Eligible reviews reported anthropometric, metabolic, psychosocial, or survival outcomes. Methodological quality was appraised using the AMSTAR-2 tool, and findings were narratively synthesized. Results: Nine systematic reviews encompassing more than 10,000 breast cancer survivors were included. Interventions ranged from general dietary counselling and structured weight-management programmes to Mediterranean-style dietary patterns, dietitian-led primary care, multiple health behaviour change interventions, mobile nutrition apps, and broader lifestyle programmes incorporating diet. Across reviews, interventions consistently improved diet quality and fruit–vegetable intake, produced modest but meaningful reductions in weight, body mass index, and body fat, and enhanced several QoL domains (e.g., fatigue, physical functioning, body image). Higher adherence to Mediterranean-style diets was associated with lower all-cause and non–breast cancer mortality, though certainty was limited by observational designs. However, evidence for long-term maintenance, survival endpoints, and ethnically diverse or low- and middle-income populations remains sparse. Conclusions: Dietary and nutrition interventions, particularly structured, dietitian-supported, and Mediterranean-style approaches, contribute to improved diet quality, sustainable weight control, and enhanced QoL among breast cancer survivors. Integrating nutrition care into survivorship pathways should be the focus of future research. Full article

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, are among the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Dietary patterns have emerged as modifiable risk factors that may influence disease onset and progression. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and extra virgin olive oil, has been consistently associated with better cognitive outcomes and reduced risk of neurodegeneration. Aim: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the role of the MedDiet in slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on polyphenols such as resveratrol and oleuropein as key bioactive mediators. Methods: We synthesized findings from epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and mechanistic research to provide an integrated overview of how adherence to the MedDiet and its polyphenol components affects neurodegenerative disease trajectories. Results: Epidemiological studies suggest that higher MedDiet adherence is associated with slower cognitive decline, reduced conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease, and better motor and non-motor outcomes in Parkinson’s disease. Mechanistically, the MedDiet modulates oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial function, vascular health, and the gut–brain axis. Polyphenols such as resveratrol and oleuropein exert neuroprotective effects through antioxidant activity, modulation of amyloid aggregation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and activation of signaling pathways (e.g., SIRT1). Clinical studies, although limited, indicate beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich interventions on cognitive and metabolic biomarkers. Conclusions: Current evidence supports the Mediterranean diet as a promising dietary strategy to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Polyphenols, including resveratrol and oleuropein, may play a role in mediating these effects. Further well-designed, long-term clinical trials are needed to establish causal relationships, optimize dosage, and explore biomarker-driven personalized nutrition approaches. Full article

Background and Objectives: Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are one of the most severe complications in children with intestinal failure (IF) who require long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). Taurolidine–citrate solution (TCS), with proven antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, has been proposed as a promising alternative to heparin locks for preventing infection. The aim is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the TCS in reducing the rates of CRBSI and pathogen-specific infections in pediatric patients with indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs) who are receiving PN. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 48 pediatric IF patients treated at an intestinal rehabilitation and transplantation center in Türkiye. Patients received either TCS or heparinized saline (0.9% saline solution containing 100 IU of heparin) as a catheter lock. Infection data were extracted from medical records and expressed as events per 1000 catheter days. Group comparisons were performed using non-parametric tests, and Poisson regression was applied to calculate rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Adjusted rate ratios were obtained from a Poisson regression model that included the following variables: age, sex, diagnosis category, ostomy status, catheter type, and follow-up duration. Log(catheter-days) was incorporated as an offset term. Overdispersion was assessed and not detected. Results: The crude CRBSI rate was lower in the TCS group than in the heparinized saline group (29.4 vs. 42.8 per 1000 catheter days), though this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.383). However, after adjustment by Poisson regression, TCS use was significantly associated with reduced infection rates (adjusted RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.70–0.87, p < 0.001). TCS use was also significantly associated with reduced rates of Gram-positive (RR = 0.78, p = 0.006), Gram-negative (RR = 0.48, p < 0.001) and fungal (RR = 0.63, p < 0.001) infections. No adverse events were observed among the TCS group. Conclusions: Standardized TCS lock therapy effectively and safely reduces CRBSIs in pediatric patients with IF, particularly those caused by Gram-negative and fungal organisms. These results support the use of TCS as a prophylactic option for preventing infection in long-term CVC use. Full article

In recent years, there has been an increase in the consumption of seafood such as shellfish and crustaceans due to their pleasant taste and nutritional value. Fish are also a crucial part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, the consumption of these products may cause food poisoning through marine biotoxins. In recent years, several legal acts have been published by the European Commission to regulate toxin limits and describe their reference analysis methods. Commission Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004 established the maximum contents of marine biotoxins only in bivalve mollusks. Although other groups of marine organisms such as crustaceans (crabs, shrimps, and lobsters) and fish are not included in the EU rules for toxin monitoring, they may still be vectors of marine biotoxins for humans. Due to this, there is an urgent need for studies regarding the occurrence of marine biotoxins in non-bivalve seafood organisms and their potential influence on public health. In this review, the most important cases of accumulation of marine biotoxins in crustaceans and fish in recent years are described. Full article

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasingly prevalent among adolescents, especially those with obesity. It is the leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality and can progress to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and eventually irreversible cirrhosis. There is currently no medical treatment recommended for MASLD in adolescents. Nutritional interventions, such as polyphenol supplementation, could be a non-pharmacological option to improve metabolic outcomes. Objectives: This pilot study aimed to preliminarily assess the impact of a 60-day polyphenol supplementation on measured resting energy expenditure (mREE) by indirect calorimetry (IC) in adolescents with MASLD. It also compared mREE by IC with predicted resting energy expenditure (pREE) using the WHO and Schofield formulae. Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled trial enrolled 23 adolescents with MASLD, of which 11 completed IC assessments before and after the 60-day polyphenol supplementation (intervention group, n = 5) or no supplementation (controls, n = 6). There was no placebo. Caloric intake was assessed to evaluate its impact on mREE and mREE was compared to pREE using the WHO and Schofield equations. Results: Participants in the intervention group had a statistically significant increase in mREE between the two visits (+89.6 kcal/day, p = 0.037), while no difference was found in the control group. When compared to the control group, the intervention group had a greater variation in mREE between visits (+100.4 kcal/day, p = 0.021). No significant changes were observed when adjusting mREE for body weight. Also, there were no significant changes in body weight in the two groups between the visits. Both the WHO and Schofield equations overestimated pREE with an average percentage of pREE of 88.8% and 91.0%, respectively. Conclusions: Although several methodological limitations prevent clear conclusions from being drawn at this stage, this study suggests that polyphenol supplementation could increase REE in adolescents with MASLD and that the WHO and Schofield equations tend to overestimate REE in obese patients. Full article

Soybean seed composition, particularly the oil and protein content of the seed, has been a longstanding focus of research due to the economic and nutritional importance of these components for both feed and industrial applications. Through forward genetic screening of a mutagenized population derived from the soybean cultivar Williams-82, a mutant line designated PID 17238 was identified for high seed oil content. This phenotype is associated with a decrease in levels of protein with respect to Williams-82. The phenotype was mapped to chromosome 2 to a region near Satt459. Fine mapping and whole-genome resequencing were used to identify the causative mutation. Analysis of the resequencing data within the candidate region uncovered 55 sequence variants. Glyma.02G270800 contained a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within the coding sequence. Glyma.02G270800 encodes a lysin motif (LysM) receptor-like kinase previously reported in the literature as GmNFR1α. Importantly, this locus is allelic to the well-characterized rj1 locus, a recessive mutation known to cause a non-nodulating phenotype in soybean. Nodulation in soybeans, which enables nitrogen fixation, is crucial for protein synthesis in seeds, and the lack of nodulation may explain the lower protein content in PID 17238. Full article