Search Results (3,896)

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a disorder characterised by the concomitant presence of obesity, hyperglycaemia, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and insulin resistance. An increasing body of research indicates that chronic inflammation, accompanied by oxidative stress and angiogenesis, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Spice herbs may exert a beneficial effect when consumed daily in generally accepted amounts (1–3 g), thus providing relatively small quantities of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Their potential arises from regular long-term use rather than from the amount of bioactive substances delivered in a single dose. Methods: In this narrative review, we analysed data from the international literature on the effects of spice herbs (coriander, sage, mint, basil, rosemary, oregano and thyme) consumption on inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome in women. Results: The available literature provides limited data on the impact of spice herbs in the context of anti-inflammatory effects. A total of 124 publications were analysed, including 72 original research studies (48 involving humans) and 52 review articles and meta-analyses. Among the research articles included in the review, only 20 addressed both inflammation and at least one of the seven selected herbs: five were human studies, six involved laboratory animals, and eight were conducted in vitro. Analysis of the results from human studies demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects (decreases in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, TLR4, hs-CRP) at daily doses not exceeding 3 g of individual herbs or 6.6 g of an herbal mixture. The use of spice herbs as a nutritional strategy to prevent chronic inflammation is supported by a growing body of scientific evidence. It should be emphasised that these studies are concerned with dietary support and prevention rather than with treatments that substitute for standard medical therapy. Incorporating spice herbs into the daily diet may represent a simple and safe approach to increasing the intake of anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds. Conclusions: Future research should focus on the precise determination of optimal doses and combinations of spice herbs to maximise benefits while avoiding potential adverse effects resulting from excessive intake of certain compounds or inappropriate selection of spice herbs. Long-term studies conducted in larger populations of women with metabolic syndrome are required, as physiological differences, particularly those related to oestrogens, may result in sex-specific effects. This review provides up-to-date information for further basic and clinical research on herbal medicine in metabolic syndrome. Full article

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a major fruit crop in tropical and subtropical regions, but changing climatic conditions—especially rising temperatures and intense solar radiation—are increasing physiological disorders. Sunburn, a key heat- and light-induced disorder, causes peel discoloration and tissue damage. This results in significant yield loss and reduced fruit quality. The objective of this study was to characterize sunburn-induced anatomical changes in the widely grown, highly sensitive Hicaznar cultivar in Türkiye, and to identify the optimal phenological stage for the application of sunburn-preventive practices. For this purpose, pomegranate fruit peels were fixed in FAA (Formalin–Acetic Acid–Alcohol) solution, embedded in paraffin blocks, and sectioned at a thickness of 5–7 µm. The sections were stained using the hematoxylin–eosin method and examined under a light microscope. The images captured with a digital camera wereanalyzed and revealed that sunburn damage in the pomegranate peel first appears in the cuticle layer, followed by disruption and fragmentation of the cutaneous and epidermal layers beneath it, and ultimately leads to damage of the parenchyma cells. Furthermore, Light microscopy showed that before visible discoloration, cells near the epidermis undergo phenolic accumulation, cell-wall thickening, and lignification, which are early indicators of sunburn. These microscopic changes provide early diagnostic features for detecting sunburn damage before external symptoms manifest. The study concluded that anatomical changes begin before the visible symptoms of sunburn appear on the fruit, and the most appropriate timing for applying preventive measures against sunburn has been identified. Light microscopy showed that before visible discoloration, cells near the epidermis undergo phenolic accumulation, cell-wall thickening, and lignification, which are early indicators of sunburn. Full article

Obesity represents a heterogeneous metabolic disorder characterized by substantial interindividual variation in inflammatory status, insulin sensitivity, and cardiometabolic risk. Traditional anthropometric measures fail to capture this metabolic diversity, limiting risk stratification and personalized intervention strategies. This review critically examines nutritional and metabolic biomarkers that reflect the physiological dysregulation underlying obesity, including adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, resistin), inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, TNF-α), insulin resistance indices (HOMA-IR, fasting insulin, HbA1c), and lipid metabolism indicators (LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and liver enzymes such as ALT and GGT). Among these, elevated CRP, reduced adiponectin, and increased HOMA-IR have demonstrated the strongest clinical utility for early metabolic risk identification. We further evaluate emerging biomarkers—including circulating microRNAs, gut microbiota-derived metabolites (short-chain fatty acids, TMAO, lipopolysaccharides), and bile acid profiles—which offer additional mechanistic insight into diet–microbiome–host interactions. We systematically assess the mechanistic basis, clinical relevance, and nutritional modulation of each biomarker class, emphasizing how dietary composition—particularly fatty acid quality, fiber intake, and overall dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet—influences biomarker profiles and metabolic outcomes. Furthermore, we explore how biomarker-based phenotyping enables precision nutrition approaches by identifying individuals most likely to benefit from specific dietary interventions. Integration of multi-biomarker panels with clinical and genetic data holds promise for advancing from population-based dietary guidelines toward individualized nutrition strategies that optimize metabolic health and prevent obesity-related complications. Future research should prioritize validating biomarker-guided intervention frameworks, establishing standardized thresholds across diverse populations, and developing clinically implementable tools for personalized nutritional medicine. Full article

Background/Objectives: The medical mushroom Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Caterpillar Fungus), known for its ability to enhance “vitality,” is one of the most popular medicines in Asian traditional medical systems. According to the Chinese Pharmacopeia, O. sinensis is standardized for its adenosine content, the precursor of ATP, which mediates numerous physiological and pathological processes in many diseases. The related fungus of order Hypocreales, Cordyceps militaris, and its major bioactive constituents, 3′-deoxyadenosine (cordycepin), also exhibit pleiotropic biological activities. This review aims to provide a rationale for the adaptogenic and resilience-supporting effects of these medicinal fungi and to align food and drug regulation in Western countries. Methods: In this narrative review, we integrated results from chemical, pharmacokinetic, network pharmacology, preclinical, and clinical studies of O. sinensis, C. militaris, and cordycepin using network pharmacology and bioinformatics tools. Results: Across studies, recurrent mechanistic hubs included PI3K–Akt, AMPK–mTOR, MAPK, NF-κB, apoptosis, and adaptive stress-response signaling pathways, linking immune regulation and metabolic homeostasis. Experimental studies confirmed modulation of cytokine production, kinase signaling, and mitochondrial regulators. Clinical meta-analyses demonstrate consistent adjunctive benefits in renal and pulmonary disorders, although heterogeneity in preparation and methodological limitations remains significant. The review reveals controversy regarding the bioavailability of cordycepin in vivo and its concentration in vitro studies, raising the hypothesis that cordycepin may act as a driver, triggering the organism’s adaptive stress response in stress-induced and aging-related diseases. Pharmacokinetic data indicate that systemic cordycepin concentrations after oral administration remain in the nanomolar range, suggesting that some predicted molecular interactions may occur indirectly or through systems-level mechanisms. The review, for the first time, suggests establishing a regulatory category for resilience-supporting physiological modulators to align food and drug regulation in the EU with contemporary systems biology, thereby complementing the work of EFSA, EMA, FDA, and Asian authorities. Conclusions: O. sinensis, C. militaris, and 3-deoxyadenosine share a common adaptogenic mechanism for maintaining homeostasis of cellular and integrated biological system functions. The systems-level network analysis and reductionistic molecular ligand preceptor pharmacology provide complementary approaches for understanding the multi-target bioactivity of these fungi. This review clarifies conceptual and regulatory barriers to recognizing resilience-supporting interventions and informs future regulatory innovation. Full article

Myo-inositol (MI) is recognized as a potential stress regulator capable of alleviating abiotic stress. The objective of this study is to analyze the role of MI in the salt stress response of Daucus carota L. and its potential mechanisms. “Hongxin Qicun” carrot seedlings were subjected to five treatments: control; salt stress (50 mM NaCl); and salt stress combined with 50, 100, or 200 μM of MI. Through an integrated approach combining physiological assays, non-invasive micro-test technology (NMT), and gene expression profiling, we found that salt stress severely inhibited seedling growth, disrupted K⁺/Na⁺ homeostasis, and triggered excessive H₂O₂ accumulation. Exogenous MI application mitigated these salt-induced damages, with 100 μM MI exerting the optimal effect. MI enhanced Na⁺ efflux and reduced K⁺ efflux in carrot roots under salt stress. Inhibitor experiments indicated that MI-promoted Na⁺ efflux relies on active transport via the plasma membrane (PM) Na⁺/H⁺ antiporter system, and qRT-PCR analysis showed that this response was accompanied by the upregulation of DcSOS1. Furthermore, MI contributes to K⁺ homeostasis by synergistically modulating PM H⁺-ATPase and high-affinity potassium transporters. The established proton gradient helps reduce salt-induced K⁺ loss through depolarization-activated potassium channels and non-selective cation channels. MI treatment decreased electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde content, and H₂O₂ accumulation by enhancing the activities of the plant antioxidant defense system. Meanwhile, MI upregulated the expression of myo-inositol oxygenase (DcMIOXs) genes, which may contribute to osmotic balance maintenance and facilitate ROS scavenging. In conclusion, exogenous MI alleviates salt-induced physiological disorders in Daucus carota L. by coordinately regulating K⁺/Na⁺ and ROS homeostasis, with 100 μM identified as the optimal concentration for this effect. Full article

High-frame-rate (HFR) ultrasound imaging enables the acquisition of up to several thousand frames per second, substantially improving the temporal resolution of echocardiography. This technical advancement allows visualization of rapid mechanical and hemodynamic events that are not captured by conventional systems. In this review, we summarize the methods used to achieve HFR acquisition and examine their application across three principal domains: deformation imaging, mechanical wave imaging, and blood flow imaging. In deformation imaging, clinical studies have demonstrated higher feasibility for myocardial motion tracking and more reliable temporal deformation parameters. Mechanical wave imaging has emerged as a complementary domain, using HFR acquisition to capture transient mechanical events and estimate regional myocardial stiffness under both physiological and pathological conditions. In flow imaging, improved temporal resolution enables detailed visualization of rapid intracardiac flow and the evaluation of complex hemodynamic patterns. This technology expands the scope of functional and quantitative cardiac assessment and is emerging as a valuable modality for noninvasive diagnosis and monitoring in cardiovascular disorders. Full article

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) is a polymodal cation channel that is widely expressed in sensory neurons, immune cells, and structural tissues, where it integrates mechanical, osmotic, and chemical stimuli to regulate both physiological responses and disease-associated signaling. Mast cells (MCs), key immune effector cells capable of rapid mediator release through degranulation, also express TRPV4. Increasing evidence supports TRPV4-MC signaling as an important neuroimmune interface, linking mechanical and inflammatory stimuli to tissue hypersensitivity and pain. In this review, we synthesize current evidence supporting a role for TRPV4 in MC-associated neuroimmune signaling across multiple disease contexts while distinguishing settings in which TRPV4 directly regulates MC activation from those in which MC responses arise through multicellular tissue interactions. Direct TRPV4-dependent MC activation has been described in conditions such as LL-37–driven rosacea and mechanically induced inflammation, whereas in disorders including asthma, visceral hypersensitivity, bladder pain syndromes, and osteoarthritis, TRPV4 activity in epithelial, neuronal, or stromal compartments more often influences MC function indirectly through ATP–purinergic signaling, cytokine release, and neuropeptide-mediated crosstalk. Across systems, TRPV4 emerges not as a single pathogenic switch but as part of a context-dependent signaling network whose functional consequences depend on cell type, tissue microenvironment, and disease stage. Altogether, these findings identify TRPV4 as a therapeutically actionable node within neuroimmune signaling pathways and support the development of tissue-specific and combination strategies targeting both TRPV4 activity and MC-mediated signaling in chronic inflammatory and pain disorders. Full article

The Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, is currently facing unprecedented mass mortality events (MMEs) that threaten the economic and ecological stability of Mediterranean aquaculture. The present review gathered and analyzed current knowledge on climate change and environmental disorders that may cause MMEs in Mediterranean mussels, compromising mussel physiology and immune competence. Biological agents, which proliferate under stress conditions, can either trigger direct disease or act as co-factors in mortality. The impact of the economic loss following MMEs in mussel production in the Mediterranean Sea is also described. The main key drivers used in the analysis of the literature were “M. galloprovincialis”, “MMEs”, “environmental stressors”, “climate change”, “pathogens”, “pollutants”, “economical losses”. The One Health–One Welfare framework recognizes the inextricable interconnection between the health of human, mussel, and marine ecosystems. This approach is essential for developing holistic monitoring programs, robust risk assessment strategies, and adaptive management policies capable of ensuring the long-term sustainability of Mediterranean mussel production and the ecological stability of coastal systems. In the future, the development of integrated water monitoring systems where mussels are both farmed species and active biological sentinels is possible. The implementation of a digital monitoring system will offer a transformative strategy for mitigating MMEs in Mediterranean mussel populations. Full article

Aging is closely associated with oxidative stress, which contributes to functional decline and increased vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases. Natural antioxidants, such as Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) and γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), possess antioxidant and anti-aging properties; however, their combined effects remain unknown. This study investigated the potential synergistic effects of CGF and γ-PGA supplementation in senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) mice, a model characterized by early cognitive decline, locomotor deficits, and elevated oxidative DNA damage. Three-month-old male SAMP8 mice (n = 40) were divided into four groups: control, CGF (49.2 mg/kg BW/day), γ-PGA (20.5 mg/kg BW/day), and combined CGF + γ-PGA (69.7 mg/kg BW/day), and were treated for 13 weeks. Behavioral and physiological assessments included locomotor activity, aging index, and cognitive function (passive and active avoidance tests). Biochemical analysis focused on brain 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHDG) as a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. Supplementation with CGF and γ-PGA, particularly in combination, significantly improved locomotor activity, aging scores, and cognitive functions. Notably, the combined treatment yielded the greatest reduction in brain 8-OHDG levels. These findings indicate that CGF and γ-PGA, when administered together, exert enhanced protective effects against functional and molecular aging. In conclusion, long-term supplementation with CGF and γ-PGA protects against aging-related decline in SAMP8 mice. This study highlights the potential of CGF and γ-PGA as safe, natural candidates for the development of functional foods or nutraceuticals aimed at promoting healthy aging and reducing oxidative stress-associated disorders. Full article

The crosstalk between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) has emerged as an important area of investigation in recent years. Although many aspects of this interaction remain elusive, accumulating evidence demonstrates that the ECS plays a critical role in regulating RNS-mediated signaling under physiological conditions. This modulation can be either inhibitory or stimulatory, depending on the specific receptor subtype, cell type, and tissue location involved. While ECS-RNS interactions support normal cellular homeostasis, their dysregulation contributes to various disease states, particularly neurodegenerative disorders. Studies in both rodent models and human subjects show that ECS modulation can reduce anxiety, attenuate neuroinflammatory responses, and slow disease progression in neurodegenerative conditions. This review examines how cannabinoid-based interventions modulate nitrosative stress and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), highlighting their potential as targeted therapeutics that address multiple pathological mechanisms simultaneously and may offer advantages over conventional treatment approaches. Full article

Introduction: Over 100 studies demonstrate the efficacy of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), an evidence-based therapeutic method. However, most research is on in-person delivery of EFT. Only a few studies examine EFT delivered virtually, and to date no research has provided a direct comparison of group virtual EFT to group in-person delivery. Objectives: Delivery of EFT shifted to online platforms in the wake of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. This makes a comparison of virtual delivery to in-person delivery timely. The research question of whether online group delivery is as effective as in-person group delivery is of high clinical relevance, given the increased access and convenience offered by virtual treatment options. Methods: Participants in the online group were a convenience sample of 172 participants drawn from four four-day virtual EFT training sessions. Changes in psychological and physiological symptoms were measured pre, post, and at six-month follow-up using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4). The two-item Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist (PCL), the Happiness Scale, and the QuickDASH pain scale. These results were then compared to those of a previously published study of in-person group EFT (n = 203) that used an identical training curriculum delivered face-to-face. Due to COVID restrictions, the physiological measures used in the face-to-face delivery could not be replicated in the virtual group. Results: Online group EFT demonstrated significant improvements in PTSD, anxiety, depression, pain, and happiness (all p < 0.001) pre to post EFT. These improvements were maintained at six-month follow-up for PTSD (p < 0.001), depression (p = 0.048), pain (p = 0.002), and happiness (p < 0.001). Although there was a reduction in anxiety in the online group at six-month follow-up, this did not reach significance (p = 0.102). When compared to the in-person group (pre-COVID), the percent change in symptoms, while still clinically and statistically significant, was for most conditions smaller in the virtual group (post COVID) at both post and follow-up time points. Conclusions: EFT is associated with significant improvements in psychological and physiological conditions including PTSD, anxiety, depression, pain, and happiness, whether delivered virtually in groups or in-person in groups. The psychological and physiological benefits identified in online treatment are similar to those found during in-person delivery, though not as large or clinically significant. This finding is consistent with the literature demonstrating that online treatment is an effective method of delivering psychological therapies. The results reinforce other studies showing COVID produced a significant increase in mental health symptoms. Published treatment guidelines already recommend in-person EFT as an efficient and potentially cost-effective first-line intervention in primary care; virtual group EFT can be similarly recommended. Full article

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a global problem with serious psychological, physiological, and social consequences. Seeking professional help is often delayed due to a lack of self-recognition of addiction, frequently sustained by self-deception. Although self-deception is a core feature of SUD, the mechanisms underlying it remain insufficiently studied. This research examines the role of impulsivity and self-efficacy in predicting self-deceptive behaviors—manipulation and mystification—in individuals undergoing addiction rehabilitation. The sample consisted of 122 Spanish participants from therapeutic communities (Mage = 44.99, SD = 10.58; 82.8% male) who completed the Self-Deception Questionnaire (SDQ-12), the Impulsive Control Scale Ramón y Cajal (ECIRyC), and the Drug Taking Confidence Questionnaire (DTCQ). Results showed that impulsivity significantly predicted both manipulation and mystification. Manipulation was also associated with self-efficacy in managing temptation and duration of addiction, highlighting its multifaceted nature. In contrast, mystification was predicted solely by impulsivity, suggesting a stronger dependence on internal psychological processes rather than contextual factors. These findings underscore the importance of targeting impulsivity and enhancing self-efficacy in addiction treatment. Interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches may be particularly effective in reducing self-deceptive behaviors and supporting long-term recovery. Full article

SIRT7is an NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase predominantly localized in the nucleolus, where it plays important roles in chromatin regulation, transcriptional control, and cellular stress response. Accumulating evidence has revealed that SIRT7 participates in multiple molecular processes, including ribosomal RNA transcription, histone modification, DNA damage repair, metabolic regulation, and inflammatory signaling pathways. Through these mechanisms, SIRT7 contributes to the pathogenesis of various human diseases, particularly cancer and metabolic disorders. In recent years, emerging studies have begun to uncover the roles of SIRT7 in the central nervous system (CNS). Although research in this area remains limited, available evidence suggests that SIRT7 may be involved in neuronal homeostasis, glial function, neuroinflammation, and responses to brain injury. Furthermore, dysregulation of SIRT7 has been implicated in CNS-related pathologies. In this review, we summarize the understanding of SIRT7 molecular mechanisms and its implications in human disease, with special emphasis on its emerging roles in the CNS. We also address unresolved questions and propose future research directions to facilitate a deeper understanding of SIRT7 in neurological physiology and pathology. Full article

The transition period in dairy cows is marked by metabolic, oxidative, and immune challenges that increase susceptibility to periparturient diseases. Injectable mineral supplementation (IMS) has been proposed to support immunometabolic adaptation by enhancing antioxidant capacity and immune function, with consistent associations with improved health outcomes but variable effects on production. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of repeated intramuscular multi-mineral supplementation during the transition period on health, metabolic stress, immune status, and productive performance in Holstein cows. Supplementation was associated with lower odds of subclinical hypocalcemia on day 4 postpartum in primiparous cows (p = 0.02) and overall for persistent subclinical hypocalcemia (p = 0.03). Multiparous cows (p = 0.04) and the overall population (p = 0.01) showed consistent effects on metritis following IMS. Supplemented cows had improved metabolic and uterine health indicators without affecting energy metabolism-related disorders. Although no differences were detected for major postpartum health disorders, its main benefits may involve immune competence, oxidative regulation, and physiological resilience rather than energy balance. Full article

Diet is a key modulator of the gut microbiota, thereby influencing host physiology. Microbial colonization begins early in life, influenced by maternal sources, mode of birth, diet, and environmental exposures, and stabilizes into an adult-like microbiome during early childhood. This maturation yields a microbial ecosystem dominated by Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes that contributes to host physiological homeostasis. Gut microorganisms function as an integrated metabolic system that transforms dietary substrates into bioactive metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), amino acid-derived compounds, and microbial lipids. These metabolites regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, intestinal barrier integrity, and immune modulation. Although many metabolic functions are conserved, their activity is shaped by diet, microbial cross-feeding, and local intestinal conditions, enabling functional specialization within the gut. Disruption of this system, known as dysbiosis, is associated with alterations in microbial diversity and metabolic output that have been linked to metabolic diseases, including obesity and related disorders. Evidence from experimental models and observational studies suggests that these associations may involve interconnected inflammatory and metabolic mechanisms, such as impaired intestinal barrier function, low-grade inflammation, and altered dietary energy harvest; however, causal relationships in humans remain incompletely understood. Beyond peripheral effects, the gut microbiome influences host metabolism via the gut–brain axis, a bidirectional network that integrates neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic signaling. Microbiota-derived metabolites and gut hormone modulation contribute to appetite regulation, energy balance, and glucose homeostasis, while central neuroendocrine signaling can reciprocally shape the intestinal microbial niche. Collectively, these findings highlight the gut microbiome as a central regulator of host metabolism, whose disruption may contribute to the development of metabolic disease. Full article