Search Results (1,365)

Microalgae, with their unparalleled capabilities for sunlight-driven growth, CO₂ fixation, and synthesis of diverse high-value compounds, represent sustainable cell factories for a circular bioeconomy. However, industrial deployment has been hindered by biological constraints and the inadequacy of conventional genetic tools. The advent of CRISPR-Cas systems initially provided precise gene editing via targeted DNA cleavage. This review argues that the true transformative potential lies in moving decisively beyond cutting to harness CRISPR as a versatile synthetic biology “Swiss Army Knife”. We synthesize the rapid evolution of CRISPR-derived tools—including transcriptional modulators (CRISPRa/i), epigenome editors, base/prime editors, multiplexed systems, and biosensor-integrated logic gates—and their revolutionary applications in microalgal engineering. These tools enable tunable gene expression, stable epigenetic reprogramming, DSB-free nucleotide-level precision editing, coordinated rewiring of complex metabolic networks, and dynamic, autonomous control in response to environmental cues. We critically evaluate their deployment to enhance photosynthesis, boost lipid/biofuel production, engineer high-value compound pathways (carotenoids, PUFAs, proteins), improve stress resilience, and optimize carbon utilization. Persistent challenges—species-specific tool optimization, delivery efficiency, genetic stability, scalability, and biosafety—are analyzed, alongside emerging solutions and future directions integrating AI, automation, and multi-omics. The strategic integration of this CRISPR toolkit unlocks the potential to engineer robust, high-productivity microalgal cell factories, finally realizing their promise as sustainable platforms for next-generation biomanufacturing. Full article

Wool has distinctive biological, physical, and chemical properties that contribute to its value both for the sheep and in global fibre and textile markets. Its fibres are primarily composed of proteins, principally keratin and keratin-associated proteins (KAPs). To better comprehend the genes that underpin key wool traits, this study examined the keratin-associated protein 36-1 gene (KRTAP36-1) in Chinese Tan lambs. We identified three previously reported alleles of the gene (named A, B and C) that were present in the lambs studied, with genotype frequencies as follows: 2.0% (n = 5; AA), 6.9% (n = 17; AB), 13.8% (n = 34; AC), 8.9% (n = 22; BB), 33.4% (n = 82; BC) and 35.0% (n = 86; CC). The frequencies of the individual alleles in the Chinese Tan lambs were 12.4%, 29.1% and 58.5% for alleles A, B and C, respectively. The three alleles were in Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium. In an association analysis, it was revealed that allele C was associated with variation in the mean fibre curvature of the fine wool of the Chinese Tan lambs, but this association was not observed in their heterotypic hair fibres. This finding suggests that KRTAP36-1 might be differentially expressed in the wool follicles that produce the two fibre types, and that along with other KRTAP genes, it may be involved in determining fibre curvature and the distinctive curly coat of the lambs. Full article

The food industry consumes large amounts of water across various processes, and generates wastewater characterized by parameters like biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, pH, suspended solids, and nutrients. To meet environmental standards and enable reuse or valorization, treatment methods such as physicochemical, biological, and membrane-based processes are applied. This review focuses on the valorization of food industry wastewater in the biotechnological production of high-value products, with an emphasis on starch-rich wastewater, wineries and confectionery industry wastewater, and with a focus on new technologies for reduces environmental burden but also supports circular economy principles. Starch-rich wastewaters, particularly those generated by the potato processing industry, offer considerable potential for biotechnological valorization due to their high content of soluble starch, proteins, organic acids, minerals, and lipids. These effluents can be efficiently converted by various fungi (e.g., Aspergillus, Trichoderma) and yeasts (e.g., Rhodotorula, Candida) into value-added products such as lipids for biodiesel, organic acids, microbial proteins, carotenoids, and biofungicides. Similarly, winery wastewaters, characterized by elevated concentrations of sugars and polyphenols, have been successfully utilized as medium for microbial cultivation and product synthesis. Microorganisms belonging to the genera Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Chlorella, Klebsiella, and Xanthomonas have demonstrated the ability to transform these effluents into biofuels, microbial biomass, biopolymers, and proteins, contributing to sustainable bioprocess development. Additionally, wastewater from the confectionery industry, rich in sugars, proteins, and lipids, serves as a favorable fermentation medium for the production of xanthan gum, bioethanol, biopesticides, and bioplastics (e.g., PHA and PHB). Microorganisms of the genera Xanthomonas, Bacillus, Zymomonas, and Cupriavidus are commonly employed in these processes. Although there are still certain regulatory issues, research gaps, and the need for more detailed economic analysis and kinetics of such production, we can conclude that this type of biotechnological production on waste streams has great potential, contributing to environmental sustainability and advancing the principles of the circular economy. Full article

The integration of nanotechnology and green synthesis strategies provides innovative solutions in biomedicine. This study focuses on the biofabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Corynespora smithii, an endophytic fungus isolated from Bergenia ciliata. The eco-friendly synthesis process employed fungal extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents thereby minimizing the need for hazardous chemicals. The AgNPs demonstrated strong potent biological activities, showcasing significant antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. The antibacterial efficacy was demonstrated against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, while cytotoxicity on the A549 lung cancer cell line revealed an IC₅₀ value of 10.46 µg/mL. A molecular docking analysis revealed interactions between the major bioactive compound, dimethylsulfoxonium formylmethylide, and the pathogenic proteins, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi, displaying moderate binding affinities. Furthermore, the ADME analysis of dimethylsulfoxonium formylmethylide indicated favourable pharmacokinetic properties, including high gastrointestinal absorption, minimal lipophilicity, and low potential for drug–drug interactions, making it a promising candidate for oral drug formulations. These findings further support the compound’s suitability for biomedical applications. This research emphasizes the potential of C. smithii as a sustainable source for synthesizing bioactive nanoparticles, paving the way for their application in developing novel therapeutic agents. This study highlights the significance of harnessing endophytic fungi from medicinal plants for sustainable nanotechnology advancements. Full article

Mauritia flexuosa, commonly known as “canangucha,” holds significant nutritional and economic value in the Amazon region. While its pulp is widely utilized in local food products, the seed or kernel is largely underutilized. This study investigated the proximal and phytochemical composition of M. flexuosa, alongside its biological properties, specifically focusing on the hypoglycemic activity of an ethanolic extract from M. flexuosa seeds (MFSs). Proximal analysis revealed that MFSs are a notable source of crude fiber (28.4%) and a moderate source of protein (9.1%). Phytochemical screening indicated a high total polyphenol content (123.4 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 mg dry weight) and substantial antiradical capacity against the ABTS radical (IC₅₀ = 171.86 µg/mL). Notably, MFS ethanolic extracts exhibited significant in vitro antihyperglycemic activity via inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, demonstrating comparable inhibition to acarbose at higher concentrations. This hypoglycemic effect was further corroborated in an in vivo rat model with induced diabetes, where the administration of 100 mg/kg of MFS ethanolic extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels compared to the diabetic control group (p < 0.05). A moderate antihypertensive effect was observed at a concentration of 150 mg/kg, correlating with ACE inhibition. High-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-HRMS) analysis of the seed extract identified phenolic compounds including ellagic, p-coumaric, and chlorogenic acids, as well as flavonoids such as quercetin, myricetin, and epicatechin. This study provides the first evidence of the hypoglycemic activity of MFSs, offering valuable insights into their phytochemistry and potential therapeutic applications. Full article

This study included 221 patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to the emergency department of Avicenne Hospital in Rabat between August 2020 and August 2021. Patients were divided into three groups according to their D-dimer levels (<1, 1–2, and >2 µg/mL). Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between elevated D-dimer levels and in-hospital mortality. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationship between D-dimer levels and various biological and clinical parameters. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in the mean (SD) age among the three groups (p = 0.006). Analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the means (SD) of oxygen saturation, duration of hospital stay, and breathing rate among the three independent groups of COVID-19 patients. Patients with elevated D-dimer levels (greater than 2 µg/mL) experienced worse outcomes than those in the other groups, with severity, transfer to intensive care, and in-hospital mortality of 55 (40.7%), 35 (16%), and 24 (11%) patients, respectively, with p-values of 0.048, 0.002, and 0.002, respectively. Patients in the D-dimer > 2 µg/mL group had significantly higher C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase, urea, cardiac troponin, B-type natriuretic peptide, and ferritin levels than those in the other two groups. The p-value was significant among the three groups (p = 0.044, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001). Age and elevated D-dimer levels (greater than 2 µg/mL) were associated with mortality in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Correlation analysis indicated that D-dimer in COVID-19 patients is associated with worsening respiratory, hepatic, cardiac, and coagulation parameters, suggesting their utility as an integrative marker of disease severity. D-dimer levels > 2 µg/mL were identified as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 in-hospital mortality. Measuring and monitoring D-dimer levels can assist clinicians in taking timely actions and predicting the prognosis of patients with COVID-19. Full article

Flammulina velutipes is a widely cultivated edible mushroom in East Asia, recognized for its nutritional benefits and distinct morphology characterized by a long stipe and a compact, hemispherical pileus. The pileus not only plays a critical biological role in reproduction through spore formation but also serves as a key commercial trait influencing consumer preference and market value. Despite its economic importance, pileus development in F. velutipes is highly sensitive to environmental factors, among which carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration is particularly influential under indoor cultivation conditions. While previous studies have reported that elevated CO₂ levels can inhibit pileus expansion in other mushroom species, the molecular mechanisms by which CO₂ affects pileus growth in F. velutipes remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of CO₂ concentration on pileus morphology and gene expression in F. velutipes by cultivating fruiting bodies under two controlled atmospheric conditions: low (1000 ppm) and high (10,000 ppm) CO₂. Morphometric analysis revealed that elevated CO₂ levels significantly suppressed pileus expansion, reducing the average diameter by more than 50% compared to the low CO₂ condition. To elucidate the underlying genetic response, we conducted RNA sequencing and identified 102 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with 78 being downregulated under elevated CO₂. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted the involvement of cyclin-dependent protein kinase regulatory pathways in this response. Two cyclin genes were found to be significantly downregulated under elevated CO₂ conditions, and their suppression was validated through quantitative real-time PCR. These genes, possessing conserved cyclin_N domains, are implicated in the regulation of the eukaryotic cell cycle, particularly in mitotic growth. These results indicate that CO₂-induced downregulation of cyclin genes may underlie cell cycle arrest, contributing to inhibited pileus development. This study is the first to provide transcriptomic evidence that elevated CO₂ concentrations specifically repress PHO80-like cyclin genes in F. velutipes, revealing a molecular mechanism by which CO₂ stress inhibits pileus development. These findings suggest that elevated CO₂ triggers a morphogenetic checkpoint by repressing PHO80-like cyclins, thereby modulating cell cycle progression during fruiting body development. This study provides the first evidence of such a transcriptional response in edible mushrooms and offers promising molecular targets for breeding CO₂-resilient strains and optimizing commercial cultivation conditions. Full article

In the context of a rapidly expanding global population, mulberry leaf protein emerges as an emerging source of plant protein, with most applications currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL), presenting substantial potential for application in functional foods and nutraceuticals. This paper analyzes three key advantages of mulberry leaf protein. Firstly, the abundant and inexpensive production of mulberry leaves establishes a solid foundation for large-scale protein extraction. Secondly, advancements in the preparation processes and production technology for mulberry leaf protein have further enhanced its viability. Thirdly, mulberry leaf protein boasts excellent nutritional value and outstanding functional properties, along with multiple biological activities, including antioxidant effects, aging delay, and blood-pressure-lowering activity. These superior qualities considerably broaden its range of applications. Furthermore, this paper evaluates existing research (before 30 June 2025) while exploring prospective avenues for future investigation. The findings of this review are important for enhancing the understanding of the potential applications of mulberry leaf protein in food science and nutrition. The aim is to provide new ideas for the efficient utilization of mulberry leaf protein resources and the establishment of a global food security system. Full article

Unconventional food plants (UFPs) are increasingly valued for their nutritional composition and bioactive potential. This study proposes a comprehensive characterization of the chemical and bioactive properties of Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae) (PA); Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schott (Araceae) (XS); Stachys byzantina K. Koch (Lamiaceae) (SB); and inflorescences from three cultivars of Musa acuminata (Musaceae) var. Dwarf Cavendish, var. BRS Platina, and var. BRS Conquista (MAD, MAP, and MAC), including the assessment of physical, nutritional, phytochemical, and biological parameters. Notably, detailed phenolic profiles were established for these species, many of which are poorly documented in the literature. XS was characterized by a unique abundance of C-glycosylated flavones, especially apigenin and luteolin derivatives, rarely described for this species. SB exhibited high levels of phenylethanoid glycosides, particularly verbascoside and its isomers (up to 21.32 mg/g extract), while PA was rich in O-glycosylated flavonols such as quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin derivatives. Nutritionally, XS had the highest protein content (16.3 g/100 g dw), while SB showed remarkable dietary fiber content (59.8 g/100 g). Banana inflorescences presented high fiber (up to 66.5 g/100 g) and lipid levels (up to 7.35 g/100 g). Regarding bioactivity, PA showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (95.21%) and SB the highest reducing power in the FRAP assay (4085.90 µM TE/g). Cellular antioxidant activity exceeded 2000% in most samples, except for SB. Cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities were generally low, with only SB showing moderate effects against Caco-2 and AGS cell lines. SB and PA demonstrated the strongest antimicrobial activity, particularly against Yersinia enterocolitica, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Enterococcus faecalis, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 0.156 to 0.625 mg/mL. Linear discriminant analysis revealed distinctive chemical patterns among the species, with organic acids (e.g., oxalic up to 7.53 g/100 g) and fatty acids (e.g., linolenic acid up to 52.38%) as key discriminant variables. Overall, the study underscores the nutritional and functional relevance of these underutilized plants and contributes rare quantitative data to the scientific literature regarding their phenolic signatures. Full article

In order to achieve the efficient utilization of agricultural by-products and overcome the bottleneck of animal feed shortages in dry seasons, this study utilized corn stover (CS; Zea mays L.) as a material to systematically investigate the dynamic changes in the fermentation quality, bacterial community structure, and pathogenic risk of silage under different fermentation times (0, 3, 7, 15, and 30 days). CS has high nutritive value, including crude protein and sugar, and can serve as a carbon source and a nitrogen source for silage fermentation. After ensiling, CS silage (CSTS) exhibited excellent fermentation quality, characterized by relatively high lactic acid content, low pH, and ammonia nitrogen content within an acceptable range. In addition, neither propionic acid nor butyric acid was detected in any of the silages. CS exhibited high α-diversity, with Serratia marcescens being the dominant bacterial species. After ensiling, the α-diversity significantly (p < 0.05) decreased, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was the dominant species during the fermentation process. With the extension of fermentation days, the relative abundance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum significantly (p < 0.05) increased, reaching a peak and stabilizing between 15 and 30 days. Ultimately, lactic acid bacteria dominated and constructed a microbial symbiotic network system. In the bacterial community of CSTS, the abundance of “potential pathogens” was significantly (p < 0.01) lower than that of CS. These results provide data support for establishing a microbial regulation theory for silage fermentation, thereby improving the basic research system for the biological conversion of agricultural by-products and alleviating feed shortages in dry seasons. Full article

Royal jelly (RJ), a secretion from nurse bees, is a key factor in honeybee caste differentiation and a high-value product in apitherapy. Despite its economic and biological importance, factors affecting its yield and composition remain insufficient. This study investigated the impact of grafted larval age and sex and the collection day of RJ on its yield and physicochemical characteristics. Three independent experiments were conducted using strong Apis mellifera L. colonies. Larvae of different ages (first, second, and third) were grafted, and RJ was harvested 24, 48, and 72 h post grafting. Additionally, worker and drone larvae were used to assess the effect of larval sex. RJ was analyzed for moisture, protein, sugar, and 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-had) content. Results showed that RJ yield significantly increased with collection day, with the third day being optimal. Protein content declined over time, while moisture content rose, although sugar levels and 10-HDA remained stable. Second-day larvae yielded the highest RJ volume without affecting composition. Larval sex did not significantly influence either RJ yield or composition. The results of this study may provide valuable insights into the quality determinants of royal jelly, enabling beekeepers to optimize production for both enhanced royal jelly yield and the rearing of higher-quality queen bees. Full article

The high-Andean grass Jarava ichu (Poaceae) plays a vital role in water regulation and aquifer recharge. However, its limited use is often linked to forest fires, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. Therefore, this study aims to explore the valorization of ichu as a substrate for the cultivation of Pleurotus spp. (P. citrinopileatus, P. djamor, and P. ostreatus) and to evaluate the potential of the residual substrate as a biofertilizer, offering an ecological alternative to grassland burning in the Peruvian Andes. Samples of ichu from the district of Tomás (Lima, Peru) were used as culture substrate, analyzing productivity indicators such as crop cycle (CC), biological efficiency (BE), and production rate (PR), together with the nutritional profile of the fungi and the chemical properties of the residual substrate. The results showed an average biological efficiency of 19.8%, with no significant differences (p > 0.05) in CC, BE, or PR among the species, confirming the viability of ichu as a substrate. The fungi presented a high protein content (24.1–30.41% on a dry basis), highlighting its nutritional value. In addition, the residual substrate exhibited elevated levels of phosphorus (795.9–1296.9 ppm) and potassium (253.1–291.3 ppm) compared to raw ichu (0.11–7.77 ppm for both nutrients). Germination tests on radish seeds showed rates between 80% and 100%, without inhibition, supporting its potential as a biofertilizer. This study demonstrates the double potential of ichu as a substrate for the sustainable production of edible mushrooms of high nutritional value and as a source of biofertilizers. Full article

Background/Objectives: Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), the most widely distributed bamboo species in China, is valued for both its shoots and timber. This species often faces challenges from high-temperature stress. To cope with this stress, Moso bamboo has evolved various adaptive mechanisms at the physiological and molecular levels. Although numerous studies have revealed that a large number of transcription factors (TFs) and genes play important roles in the regulatory network of plant heat stress responses, the regulatory network involved in heat responses remains incompletely understood. Methods: In this study, Moso bamboo was placed in a high-temperature environment of 42 °C for 1 h and 24 h, and transcriptome sequencing was carried out to accurately identify key molecules affected by high temperature and their related biological pathways. Results: Through a differential expression analysis, we successfully identified a series of key candidate genes and transcription factors involved in heat stress responses, including members of the ethylene response factor, HSF, WRKY, MYB, and bHLH families. Notably, in addition to traditional heat shock proteins/factors, multiple genes related to lipid metabolism, antioxidant enzymes, dehydration responses, and hormone signal transduction were found to play significant roles in heat stress responses. To further verify the changes in the expression of these genes, we used qRT-PCR technology for detection, and the results strongly supported their key roles in cellular physiological processes and heat stress responses. Conclusions: This study not only deepens our understanding of plant strategies for coping with and defending against extreme abiotic stresses but also provides valuable insights for future research on heat tolerance in Moso bamboo and other plants. Full article

Biosynthesized ZnO nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet–visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform–infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. XRD confirmed a hexagonal wurtzite phase with an average crystallite size of 36.44 nm, while UV-vis spectroscopy showed a distinct absorption peak at 321 nm. The Zeta potential of the ZnO nanostructures was −24.28 mV, indicating high stability in suspension, which is essential for their dispersion and functionality in biological and environmental applications. The nematicidal activity of ZnO was evaluated in vitro at concentrations of 150, 300, 450, and 600 ppm, with the highest concentration achieving 75.71% mortality of second-stage juveniles (J2s) after 72 h. The calculated LC₅₀ values for the treatments were 270.33 ppm at 72 h. Additionally, molecular docking studies indicated significant interactions between the ZnO nanostructures and nematode proteins, HSP-90 and ODR1, supporting their potential nematicidal mechanism. This research highlights the effectiveness of neem leaf extract-mediated ZnO nanostructures as an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative for nematode control, presenting a promising solution for agricultural pest management. Full article

As a pivotal model organism in Lepidoptera research, the silkworm (Bombyx mori) holds significant importance in life science due to its economic value and biotechnological applications. Advancements in proteomics and bioinformatics have enabled substantial progress in characterizing the B. mori proteome. Systematic screening and identification of protein–protein interactions (PPIs) have progressively elucidated the molecular mechanisms governing key biological processes, including viral infection, immune regulation, and growth development. This review comprehensively summarizes traditional PPI detection techniques, such as yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and immunoprecipitation (IP), alongside emerging methodologies such as mass spectrometry-based interactomics and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven PPI prediction. We critically analyze the strengths, limitations, and technological integration strategies for each approach, highlighting current field challenges. Furthermore, we elaborate on the molecular regulatory networks of Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) from multiple perspectives: apoptosis and cell cycle regulation; viral protein invasion and trafficking; non-coding RNA-mediated modulation; metabolic reprogramming; and host immune evasion. These insights reveal the dynamic interplay between viral replication and host defense mechanisms. Collectively, this synthesis aims to provide a robust theoretical foundation and technical guidance for silkworm genetic improvement, infectious disease management, and the advancement of related biotechnological applications. Full article