Search Results (261)

Background/Objectives: Enriched oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) has been shown to increase muscle mass in cancer patients. This study aims to identify the immunomodulatory effects and predictive biomarkers associated with this intervention. Methods: The soluble levels of 92 immune- and oncology-related mediators were determined before and after an intervention (8 weeks) in 28 patients with cancer receiving either a standard (n = 14) or an enriched ONS (n = 14) using the Olink proteomics analysis pipeline (Olink^® Target 96 Immuno-Oncology panel (Uppsala, Sweden)) Results: Patients receiving enriched ONS experienced an average weight gain of 1.4 kg and a muscle mass increase of 2.2 kg after 8 weeks, both statistically significant (p < 0.05), while no such improvements were observed in the standard ONS group. Inflammatory markers TRAIL and LAMP3 were significantly reduced, along with an increase in Gal-1, suggesting lower inflammation and enhanced myogenic differentiation. However, patients who failed to gain muscle mass with the enriched formula showed a more aggressive inflammatory profile, characterized by higher serum levels of soluble MUC16, ARG, and IL12RB1. Interestingly, muscle mass gain could be predicted before the intervention, as responders had lower baseline levels of PGF, CD28, and IL12RB1. These differences were specific to recipients of the enriched ONS, confirming its immunomodulatory effects. Conclusions: Our findings support the use of enriched oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) as an effective strategy not only to enhance caloric and protein intake but also to promote anabolism and preserve muscle mass in cancer patients. The identification of immune profiles suggests that specific biomarkers could be used to predict which patients will benefit most from this type of intervention. This may allow for the implementation of personalized immunonutrition strategies that optimize resource allocation and improve clinical outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations at risk of cachexia. Full article

The objective of this research was to conduct a comprehensive review of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) culture in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), identify knowledge gaps, and propose strategies oriented towards intelligent and sustainable aquaculture. A systematic review and bibliometric analysis of 387 articles published between 1941 and 2025 in the Scopus database was carried out. Since 2011, there has been a sustained growth in scientific production, with the United States, Denmark, Finland, and Germany standing out as the main contributors. The journals with the highest number of publications were Aquacultural Engineering, Aquaculture, and Aquaculture Research. The conceptual analysis revealed the following three thematic clusters: experimental studies on physiology and metabolism; research focused on nutrition, growth, and yield; and technological developments for water treatment in RAS. This evolution reflects a transition from basic approaches to applied technologies oriented towards sustainability. There was also evidence of a thematic transition toward molecular tools such as proteomics, transcriptomics, and real-time PCR. However, there is still limited integration of smart technologies such as the IoT. It is recommended to incorporate self-calibrating multi-parametric sensors, machine learning models, and autonomous systems for environmental regulation in real time. Full article

While the interest and participation in general endurance training and recreational sports competitions have continuously increased in recent decades, the number of recreational master-level endurance athletes has additionally multiplied. Athletes, active men and women older than 40 years of age, who participate in competitive athletics are usually referred to by the term master athletes (MAs). Previous research revealed the significant benefits of regular moderate physical activity, i.e., its positive influence on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular health; however, recent data have raised concerns that long-term endurance exercise participation is associated with cardiac remodeling and potential adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Previous research also indicated potential structural, functional, and electrical remodeling in MAs due to prolonged and repeated exposure to high-intensity endurance exercise—a condition known as athlete’s heart. In this review, we focus on the association between extreme levels of endurance exercise and potential cardiovascular controversies, such as arrhythmogenesis due to new-onset atrial fibrillation, accelerated coronary artery atherosclerosis, and exercise-induced cardiac remodeling. Additionally, the exercise-dependent modulation of immunological response, such as proteomic response and cytokine alterations, is discussed. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of nutritional supplements in MAs and their potential benefits and harmful interactions. We aim to provide sports medicine practitioners with knowledge of these contemporary longevity controversies in sports cardiology and to highlight the importance of shared decision making in situations of clinical uncertainty. Full article

The production of food with a naturally enriched protein content is a strategic response to the growing global demand for sustainable protein sources. Wood distillate (WD), a by-product of the pyrolysis of woody biomass, has previously been shown to increase the protein concentration and bioavailability in chickpea seeds. Here, we evaluated the effect of 0.5% (v/v) WD soil drenching on chickpea productivity, nutritional profile, and proteomic pattern. WD treatment significantly improved the yield by increasing plant biomass (+144%), number of pods and seeds (+148% and +147%), and seed size (diameter: +6%; weight: +25%). Nutritional analyses revealed elevated levels of soluble proteins (+15%), starch (+11%), fructose (+135%), and polyphenols (+14%) and a greater antioxidant capacity (25%), alongside a reduction in glucose content, albeit not statistically significant, suggesting an unchanged or even lowered glycemic index. Although their concentration decreased, Ca (−31%), K (−12%), P (−5%), and Zn (−14%) in WD-treated plants remained within normal ranges. To preliminary assess the quality and safety of the protein enrichment, a differential proteomic analysis was performed on coarse flours from individual seeds. Despite the higher protein content, the overall protein profiles of the WD-treated seeds showed limited variation, with only a few storage proteins, identified as legumin and vicilin-like isoforms, being differentially abundant. These findings indicate a general protein concentration increase without a major alteration in the proteoform composition or differential protein synthesis. Overall, WD emerged as a promising and sustainable biostimulant for chickpea cultivation, capable of enhancing both yield and nutritional value, while maintaining the proteomic integrity and, bona fide, food safety. Full article

Tibetan hulless barley (qingke) grains are becoming more popular because of their high nutritional benefits. Comparative metabolomics and proteomics analyses of qingke grains (at 16, 20, 36, and 42 days after flowering) were conducted to explore the metabolic dynamics during grain filling and compare the differences in quality among three different varieties, Dulihuang, Kunlun 14, and Heilaoya. A total of 728 metabolites and 4864 proteins were identified. We first found that both the metabolite and protein profiles were more closely associated with the grain developmental stage in each cultivar than across different stages in a single cultivar. Next, we focused on the energy metabolism and biosynthesis pathways of key quality components, such as flavonoids, starch, and β-glucans in qingke grains. Quantitative analysis revealed significant variation in the abundance of cellulose synthase-like enzyme (CslF) among the three cultivars. Notably, Heilaoya displayed substantially lower CslF6 levels at 36 and 42 DAF than Kunlun 14 and Dulihuang did. These observed differences in CslF6 abundance may represent a key regulatory mechanism underlying the distinct β-glucan biosynthesis patterns among the three cultivars. Collectively, our results enhance the understanding of metabolic networks involved in qingke grain development and serve as a foundation for advancing breeding studies. Full article

Ophiocordyceps sinensis, is an entomopathogenic fungus renowned for its medicinal properties, thriving in the frigid and high-altitude regions of the Qinghai–Tibet plateau. Given the limited availability of wild resources and the increasing recognition of their medicinal value, the cultivation of O. sinensis was initiated. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the disparities in their quality. This study evaluated the primary physiological indicators of both wild and cultivated O. sinensis. It also employed proteome and untargeted metabolome approaches to elucidate the differences in quality and underlying mechanisms between the two types. The results revealed that the contents of key representative components, including polysaccharide, crude protein, adenosine, and mannitol, were higher in wild O. sinensis than in cultivated O. sinensis. A total of 499 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), including 117 up-regulated and 382 down-regulated DEPs, were identified in wild and cultivated O. sinensis. Additionally, 369 up-regulated differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and 737 down-regulated DAMs were also identified. Wild O. sinensis had higher relative levels of lysophospholipid metabolites, while cultivated O. sinensis had higher relative levels of aldehydes and carboxylic acids. Correlation analysis revealed that different habitats altered 47 pathways shared between the proteome and metabolome, including carbohydrate metabolism and energy metabolism. β-glucosidase and α-galactosidase play essential roles in carbohydrate catabolism and may indirectly influence amino acid synthesis through energy metabolic pathways. The differential expression of polyamine oxidase (PAO) could reflect variations in polyamine metabolism and ammonia production between wild and cultivated O. sinensis. These variations may consequently affect nitrogen homeostasis and the biosynthesis of nitrogen-containing compounds, ultimately leading to differences in nutritional quality. In conclusion, these findings offer a novel perspective on the applications of O. sinensis and serve as a reference for the targeted development of cultivated O. sinensis. Full article

At weaning, piglets deal with numerous changes and stressors, which can lead to reduced feed intake, digestive disturbances, and gut inflammation. In this context, there is a compelling need to develop new and innovative nutritional strategies aimed at restoring intestinal balance in piglets after weaning and controlling the weaning-associated intestinal inflammation. This study investigated the effect of a diet, including a synbiotic additive (a mix of grape seed and camelina meals as the prebiotic and a lactobacilli mixture as the probiotic) on intestinal inflammation in piglets after weaning. An acute inflammation was induced by the intraperitoneally challenge with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The experimental groups were as follows: Control group (piglets fed a conventional corn-soybean meal-based diet), LPS group (piglets fed the Control diet and challenged with 80 µg/b.w. of LPS), SYN group (piglets fed a basal diet, including 5% prebiotic mix and 0.1% probiotic mix, SYN diet), and SYN+LPS group (piglets fed the SYN diet and challenged with 80 µg/b.w. of LPS). Using genomic and proteomic techniques, genes and proteins related to intestinal inflammation were measured in both the jejunum and colon. The results showed that the LPS challenge induced an exacerbated inflammatory response in the jejunum and colon of piglets, inducing an overexpression of a large palette of inflammation-related mediators, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL)—IL-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha—TNF-α), and chemokines (e.g., monokine induced by interferon-gamma—MIG, regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted—RANTES). All these effects are prevented by the SYN diet, which controls the amplitude of intestinal inflammation induced by the LPS challenge in piglets. Overall, these results suggested that piglets, after weaning, fed the synbiotic diet are less susceptible to the LPS challenge. This diet might be used as a nutritional strategy to alleviate intestinal inflammation in piglets after weaning. Full article

Arthrospira platensis, a filamentous photosynthetic cyanobacterium, is widely recognized for its high nutritional value, broad spectrum of bioactive compounds, and excellent safety profile, making it a promising natural source for health-promoting applications. This study aimed to profile the phenolic constituents of an ethanolic extract of A. platensis (EAP) using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS and to investigate its pharmacological effects in attenuating acute and sub-chronic experimental colitis, as well as its antioxidant and antifungal properties. Colitis was induced in BALB/c mice by intrarectal administration of 2,4-dinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (DNBS), followed by oral administration of EAP at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. Phenolic profiling revealed eight major compounds, with a cumulative content of 6.777 mg/g of extract, with Pyrogallol, Ferulic acid, and Chlorogenic acid being the most abundant. In vivo, EAP treatment significantly reduced the Disease Activity Index (DAI), alleviated macroscopic colonic damage, and preserved colonic mucosal integrity in both inflammatory phases. Biochemical analyses revealed significant reductions in myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, accompanied by increased reduced glutathione (GSH) content and catalase activity. In vitro, EAP demonstrated notable antioxidant effects, including 56% DPPH and 47% ABTS radical scavenging activities, and an 81% ferrous ion-chelating capacity. Furthermore, it exhibited antifungal activity, with inhibition zones of 20 mm against Candida albicans and 15 mm against Aspergillus flavus, respectively. These findings highlight the multitarget bioactivity of EAP and support its potential as a natural agent for managing intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress across both acute and sub-chronic phases. Full article

Edible fungi, a group of globally significant macrofungi, are highly valued for their unique flavors and substantial nutritional and medicinal properties. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing their growth, development, gene function, biosynthesis of valuable compounds, and environmental adaptation is crucial for enhancing yield and quality, providing essential scientific support for industrial progress. Genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, as cornerstone life science technologies, offer powerful, integrated approaches to decipher genetic codes, reveal gene expression patterns, and elucidate complex metabolic networks in edible fungi. These advancements are transitioning research from traditional cultivation methods towards deeper molecular biology exploration. This review synthesizes key progress in applying genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics to edible fungi, with a particular focus on metabolism-related research and the fundamentals of metabolic network construction. It discusses how these technologies, independently and in preliminary integration, uncover critical steps and regulatory mechanisms within endogenous metabolic pathways. While acknowledging the importance of metabolomics and epigenomics as cutting-edge areas, this review focuses on the “classical triad” of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics due to their technological maturity, data accessibility, and established application base in elucidating core metabolic mechanisms in edible fungi. The goal is to deepen the understanding of edible fungi metabolic mechanisms, providing a vital theoretical basis and practical insights for optimizing cultivation, enabling genetic improvement, harnessing bioactive substances, and promoting industrial upgrading, thereby boosting the overall efficiency and competitiveness of the edible fungi industry. Full article

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a versatile crop that can be processed to obtain different products with multiple applications. Its seeds are a well-documented ancient source of proteins, fibers and fats, all of which possess high nutritional value. Additionally, metabolites such as flavones and phenols are present in the seeds, contributing to their antioxidant properties. Due to hemp seeds’ distinctive nutritional profile, the interest in exploring the potential use in food and nutraceuticals is growing, and they can be considered an interesting and promising alternative resource for human and animal feeding. Omics studies on hemp seeds and their by-products are also being developed, and they contribute to improving our knowledge about the genome, transcriptome, proteome, metabolome/lipidome, and ionome of these sustainable food resources. This review illustrates the main nutrients and bioactive compounds of hemp seeds and explores the most relevant omics techniques and investigations related to them. It also addresses the various products derived from processing the whole seed, such as oil, dehulled seeds, hulls, flour, cakes, meals, and proteins. Moreover, this work discusses research aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying their protein, lipid, fiber, and metabolic profile. The advantages of using omics and multi-omics approaches to highlight the nutritional values of hemp seed by-products are also discussed. In our opinion, this work represents an excellent starting point for researchers interested in studying hemp seeds as source of nutrients and bioactive compounds from a multi-level molecular perspective. Full article

Yellow passion fruit provides a substrate suitable for alcoholic fermentation and holds valuable sensory and nutritional properties that support its use for producing wine. Among the different interesting aspects to consider in the winemaking process, we highlight the analysis of the proteins of the yeast or yeasts responsible for the process; in addition to providing fundamental knowledge about the biotransformations that take place, they can contribute to understanding basic aspects that affect the sensory properties of the wine obtained. This study aimed to analyze the proteomic profile of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain E1 (ATCC: MYC-425) during passion fruit fermentation. The process was conducted in a 5 L Sartorius bioreactor with a diluted fruit puree and sucrose, making a medium with a 10% v/v alcohol potential; after 4 days, ethanol reached 8.5% v/v as sugars decreased. Subsequent LC/MS-MS analysis allowed identifying a total of 938 valid proteins: 454 from the fruit substrate and 484 attributed to yeast. Of the latter, 243 proteins were present throughout the fermentation, with GO term analysis highlighting “binding” (78%) and “catalytic activity” (66%) in molecular function, as well as “cellular” (98%) and “metabolic (90%) processes” in biological process domains. These findings may be a significant step forward in understanding the proteomic dynamics of S. cerevisiae in tropical fruit fermentations. By revealing key proteins and their roles in the unique conditions of passion fruit must, this study offers insights for optimizing the wine elaboration procedures and improving organoleptic properties and quality. Full article

Background/Objectives: Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent hematological condition globally, with treatment often complicated by adverse effects that compromise patient adherence and clinical outcomes. This study investigated the prevalence, severity, and management of side effects associated with anemia treatments among Romanian patients, aiming to identify key factors influencing treatment adherence and patient satisfaction. Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to adult patients diagnosed with anemia. Data were collected from 382 participants, covering demographic variables, anemia causes, treatment types, and patient-reported side effects. Results: Of the participants, 45% reported side effects, with a higher prevalence in intravenous (52%) than oral administration (48%). Common side effects included gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea/vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain) and systemic symptoms (fatigue, headaches). Our analysis revealed that as the patient age increased, the severity of treatment-related side effects also intensified (p < 0.01), particularly in gastrointestinal discomfort. Similarly, BMI was a significant predictor (p < 0.05), suggesting that metabolic factors play a role in symptom manifestation. Notably, severe side effects were significantly associated with treatment modifications and lower patient satisfaction. Supplements like magnesium and vitamin D3 showed positive effects in mitigating the side effects, whereas probiotics and vitamin C had mixed outcomes. Conclusions: The study highlights the significant burden of side effects in anemia treatment, emphasizing the need for personalized management strategies to improve adherence and clinical outcomes. Full article

Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) produced by members of the intestinal microbiota can not only contribute to digestion but also mediate microbe–host cell communication via the transfer of functional biomolecules to mammalian host cells. An unresolved question is which host factors and conditions influence BEV cargo and how they impact host cell function. To address this question, we analysed and compared the proteomes of BEVs released by the major human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) symbiont Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (Bt) in vivo in fed versus fasted animals using nano-liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MSMS). Among the proteins whose abundance was negatively affected by fasting, nine of ten proteins of the serine protease family, including the regulatory protein dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), were significantly decreased in BEVs produced in the GITs of fasted animals. Strikingly, in extracellular vesicles produced by the intestinal epithelia of the same fasted mice, the proteins with the most increased abundance were serine protease inhibitors (serpins). Together, these findings suggest a dynamic interaction between GI bacteria and the host. Additionally, they indicate a regulatory role for the host in determining the balance between bacterial serine proteases and host serpins exported in bacterial and host extracellular vesicles. Full article

Background: Breast milk confers essential passive immunity to infants, particularly during viral pandemics. This study investigates dynamic changes in SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies and proteome in the breast milk of mothers infected with either the wild-type or Omicron variants, addressing gaps in longitudinal dynamics and conserved or variant-specific immune responses. Methods: A prospective cohort of 22 lactating mothers infected with Omicron variant (December 2022–January 2023) was analyzed alongside a published dataset of wild-type-infected mothers (January–May 2020). Breast milk samples were collected at eight time points (1, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 days post-infection) from the Omicron cohort for ELISA quantification of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA, IgG, and IgM. Proteomic analysis was conducted for both cohorts. Results: Macronutrient composition remained stable throughout the post-infection period. SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgG demonstrated biphasic kinetics, rapidly rising by day 14 (IgA: 0.03 to 0.13 ng/mL; IgG: 0.91 to 37.00 ng/mL) and plateauing through day 42. In contrast, IgM levels remained unchanged. Proteomic profiling identified 135 proteins associated with IgA/IgG dynamics, including variant-specific and conserved proteins. Conclusions: Breast milk maintains nutritional integrity while mounting robust immune responses during SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings underscore breastfeeding as a safe and protective practice during COVID-19. Full article

Background/Objectives: Iron deficiency anemia remains a primary global health concern, affecting millions worldwide. Despite the widespread availability of iron supplements, their efficacy is often hindered by poor bioavailability and adverse gastrointestinal effects. This study explores the potential of probiotics to enhance the bioavailability of Fe₃O₄ NPs through probiotic-mediated mechanisms. Methods: Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus plantarum were utilized to investigate their interactions with Fe₃O₄ NPs, synthesized via co-precipitation and characterized using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Results: The results indicated that probiotics adhere to the nanoparticle surface, with L. fermentum exhibiting the highest adhesion and internalization capacity, leading to a significant increase in 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (4-HPLA) production (11.73 ± 0.09 mg/mL at 24 h, p < 0.05). Spectroscopic analyses further revealed that probiotic metabolism facilitates the oxidation of Fe₃O₄ to Fe₂O₃. Additionally, Fe₃O₄ nanoparticle-treated cultures demonstrated enhanced bacterial viability and metabolic activity, highlighting a synergistic effect between probiotics and iron nanoparticles. Conclusions: These findings provide compelling evidence for probiotic-assisted iron supplementation as a promising strategy to enhance iron bioavailability while mitigating the gastrointestinal side effects of conventional iron supplements. Full article