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18 pages, 1160 KB  
Article
Differential Associations of Oxidative Biomarkers with Symptomatic and Systolic Severity in Heart Failure
by Aleksandra Arsić, Bojana Kisić, Vladan Perić, Ivana Stevanović, Ana Savić Radojević, Zoran Bukumirić, Ilija Dragojević, Marija Vasić, Martin Popević, Dragiša Rašić and Snežana Hadžistević
Medicina 2026, 62(6), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62061108 - 6 Jun 2026
Viewed by 243
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Oxidative stress is recognized as an important contributor to heart failure (HF) pathophysiology, but the relationships of individual oxidative and antioxidant biomarkers with symptomatic severity and systolic dysfunction remain insufficiently defined. This study examined circulating oxidative and nitrosative stress [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Oxidative stress is recognized as an important contributor to heart failure (HF) pathophysiology, but the relationships of individual oxidative and antioxidant biomarkers with symptomatic severity and systolic dysfunction remain insufficiently defined. This study examined circulating oxidative and nitrosative stress markers across New York Heart Association (NYHA) classes and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) categories in HF and their associations with HF severity. Materials and Methods: In this case–control study, 85 patients with HF and 33 healthy controls were included. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrates and nitrites (NOx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), sulfhydryl (SH) groups, and NT-proBNP were measured. Group differences were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test with post hoc comparisons. Adjusted ordinal logistic regression models examined associations with NYHA class and LVEF category, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis evaluated discriminatory performance. Results: Compared with controls, all biomarkers differed significantly across NYHA classes and LVEF categories (all p < 0.001). In separate adjusted models, higher NOx, MDA, and NT-proBNP were associated with worse NYHA class and more impaired LVEF, whereas higher antioxidant marker levels were associated with lower odds of severe HF. In combined models, NOx remained independently associated with worse NYHA class (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.11; p < 0.001), while MDA remained independently associated with more impaired LVEF (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00–1.03; p = 0.022). NT-proBNP showed the best discrimination for NYHA III/IV versus I/II (AUC 0.966), while among oxidative biomarkers NOx performed best for symptomatic severity (AUC 0.782) and MDA for LVEF ≤ 40% (AUC 0.751). Conclusions: HF is characterized by increased oxidative and nitrosative stress together with reduced antioxidant defense. NOx appears more closely related to symptomatic severity, whereas MDA appears more closely related to systolic dysfunction. However, NT-proBNP remained the strongest overall discriminator. NOx and MDA may provide complementary mechanistic information on redox imbalance across HF severity categories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Heart Failure: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 1119 KB  
Article
Evaluating a Coenzyme Q10-Based Food for Special Medical Purpose, for Mitochondrial Diseases Management: An Open-Label, Pilot Trial
by Lucia Chico, Piervito Lopriore, Giulia Cecchi, Adriana Meli, Clara Bernardini, Linda Balestrini, Maico Polzella, Vincenzo Montano and Michelangelo Mancuso
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 5127; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27115127 - 5 Jun 2026
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) are rare disorders with limited therapeutic options. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation is widely used, although formulation differences can affect absorption and efficacy. This open-label pilot feasibility trial evaluated a food for special medical purposes (FSMP) containing high-dose CoQ10 (250 [...] Read more.
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) are rare disorders with limited therapeutic options. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation is widely used, although formulation differences can affect absorption and efficacy. This open-label pilot feasibility trial evaluated a food for special medical purposes (FSMP) containing high-dose CoQ10 (250 mg per capsule) in patients with PMD. Ten patients (mean age: 55.5 ± 8.6 years) were enrolled. Serum/plasma biomarkers, including CoQ10, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total sulfhydryl groups (t-SH), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), were assessed at baseline (T0, after ≥30 days of conventional ubidecarenone) and after 30 days of FSMP administration (T1). Fatigue severity scale (FSS) and 5-times sit-to-stand test (5xSST) were evaluated at both timepoints. FSMP was administered at 250 or 500 mg/day. Twenty sex- and age-matched healthy controls were included for CoQ10 comparison. Absolute CoQ10 concentrations remained stable overall at T1, with all patients maintaining levels above 390 ng/mL (100% vs. 60% at T0), although concentrations remained lower than in healthy controls (p < 0.01). Dose-normalized CoQ10 exposure was significantly higher with FSMP versus conventional ubidecarenone (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 7.31). FGF21, GDF15, AOPP, and t-SH remained unchanged, whereas FRAP increased at T1 (p < 0.01). No significant changes were observed in 5xSST and FSS. Exploratory analyses indicated inter-individual variability in functional responses. FSMP was associated with higher dose-normalized systemic CoQ10 exposure, more consistent circulating CoQ10, and increased FRAP levels. Its simplified dosing regimen may support long-term adherence. Larger studies are warranted to validate these preliminary findings. Full article
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14 pages, 1997 KB  
Article
In Vivo Evaluation of Oxidative Stress Induced by Intraperitoneal Administration of Mannosylerythritol Lipid Biosurfactant in Swiss Mice
by Paulo Emilio Feuser, Ana Letícia Silva Coelho, Mariana de Melo Cardoso, Rahisa Scussel, Mírian Ívens Fagundes, Lariani Tamires Witt Titbohl, Isabela Karina Della-Flora, Ricardo Andrez Machado-de-Ávila, Paulo Cesar Lock Silveira, Debora de Oliveira and Cristiano José de Andrade
Biomolecules 2026, 16(2), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16020310 - 16 Feb 2026
Viewed by 587
Abstract
Mannosylerythritol lipid-B (MEL-B) is a glycolipid whose biological properties have been widely investigated, especially in the skincare, food, and therapeutic fields. Despite this, few studies have addressed the toxicity of this glycolipid in vivo. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the in vivo [...] Read more.
Mannosylerythritol lipid-B (MEL-B) is a glycolipid whose biological properties have been widely investigated, especially in the skincare, food, and therapeutic fields. Despite this, few studies have addressed the toxicity of this glycolipid in vivo. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the in vivo oxidative stress induced by MEL-B in Swiss mice. MEL-B (50 and 150 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally at two exposure times, 24 and 72 h. Biochemical damage was quantified in the gastrocnemius, lungs, kidneys, heart, liver, and spleen. This study assessed the levels of reactive oxygen species, oxidative damage markers, antioxidant defenses, protein concentration, triglycerides, creatine kinase (CK-MB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). DCF (2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein), sulfhydryl, and SOD (superoxide dismutase) levels were used to assess oxidative damage and antioxidant defenses in cells. The results indicate that MEL-B did not trigger acute toxicity in the tested animals in a systemic context. Oxidative stress was observed in the liver samples, likely due to the metabolization of MEL-B. The levels of triglycerides and of CK-MB and LDH enzymes did not present any significant alteration (p < 0.05), indicating that glycolipids do not trigger tissue damage. These findings open new perspectives for the safe use of MEL-B in cosmetic and medicinal products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Biology)
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25 pages, 7898 KB  
Article
Effects and Mechanisms of Ultrasonic and Papain Treatment on Texture Properties of the Abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) Meat
by Zhenhao Song, Huaqiong Li, Zhiyu Liu, Meijiao Gui, Yurui Zhang, Jian Shi, Kun Qiao and Wenzheng Shi
Foods 2026, 15(4), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15040679 - 12 Feb 2026
Viewed by 716
Abstract
Haliotis discus hannai meat has a firm texture that makes it difficult to chew and swallow, so tenderizing is necessary. Ultrasonic treatment and papain enzyme processing are used to reduce the hardness of abalone meat. This study tests physicochemical indicators and protein changes [...] Read more.
Haliotis discus hannai meat has a firm texture that makes it difficult to chew and swallow, so tenderizing is necessary. Ultrasonic treatment and papain enzyme processing are used to reduce the hardness of abalone meat. This study tests physicochemical indicators and protein changes to assess meat quality and protein alterations. The maximum reduction in hardness of raw meat reached 60.58%, while heat-treated abalone meat achieved 61.13%, with free water and bound water converting to immobile water. The L* value of the meat decreased, while the a* and b* values increased. In raw meat, the content of TCA-soluble peptides increased with increasing treatment intensity. However, in heat-treated meat, this peptide content decreased with rising temperature. Muscle fiber filament breaks and pore numbers increased. The BPB binding content showed a negative correlation with the percentage of α-helix. Total sulfhydryl and free amino groups in raw meat decrease with increasing treatment intensity; both parameters in cooked meat decrease with rising temperature. Changes in tertiary protein structure cause alterations in fluorescence intensity, with secondary structure shifting from α-helix to β-sheet conformation. The results suggested that ultrasonic and papain treatments can induce structural alterations in proteins. This leads to protein cleavage and depolymerization, collectively resulting in softening of abalone meat texture and redistribution of internal moisture. These processes result in softening of abalone meat and redistribution of internal moisture. This study provides a theoretical basis for developing abalone tenderizers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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29 pages, 7216 KB  
Article
Thymoquinone Protective Effect Against Mercury-Induced Reproductive Derangement in Rats: In Vivo and In Silico Investigation
by Solomon Owumi, Moses Otunla, Pelumi Akindipe, Uche Arunsi, Jesutosin O. Babalola, Chioma E. Irozuru, Ahmad Altayyar, Bayode Oluwawibe, Olatunde Owoeye and Adegboyega K. Oyelere
Toxics 2025, 13(10), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13100896 - 19 Oct 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1653
Abstract
Mercury exposure has been linked to male infertility. Given that mercury chloride (HgCl2) may promote an oxido-inflammatory milieu associated with pathophysiological derangements, it is hypothesised that Thymoquinone (TQ), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, may mitigate the gradual harmful effects of mercury [...] Read more.
Mercury exposure has been linked to male infertility. Given that mercury chloride (HgCl2) may promote an oxido-inflammatory milieu associated with pathophysiological derangements, it is hypothesised that Thymoquinone (TQ), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, may mitigate the gradual harmful effects of mercury exposure on rat testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus, as these organs are vital to reproductive function. To test this hypothesis, 40 rats (strain: Wistar; sex: male) were randomly assigned to five cohorts of eight rats each. After a 7-day acclimation, treatments were dispensed for 28 consecutive days accordingly: Cohort I: distilled water only, as control; Cohort II: HgCl2 only (20 µg/mL); Cohort III: TQ only (2.5 mg/kg); Cohort IV: HgCl2 + TQ (20 µg/mL + 2.5 mg/kg); and Cohort V: HgCl2 + TQ (20 µg/mL + 5 mg/kg). Co-treatment with TQ preserved the body and organ weight of the HgCl2 exposed animals. However, TQ did not reduce HgCl2-induced dysfunction in sperm function and morphology. The serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), and testosterone were increased significantly (p < 0.05) by TQ co-treatment, while decreasing the prolactin level. TQ administration also increased (p < 0.05) testicular enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), acid phosphatase (ACP), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities, which HgCl2 decreased. TQ administration increased (p < 0.05) HgCl2-induced decreases in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and total sulfhydryl group (TSH) levels in the testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of experimental rats. Further, TQ reduced HgCl2-mediated increases in RONS-reactive oxygen and nitrogen species; LPO–lipid peroxidation; PC–protein carbonyl formation; and XO–xanthine oxidase activity. Furthermore, levels of inflammatory biomarkers, including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and myeloperoxidase (MPO), were decreased (p < 0.05) in the co-treated groups, with a higher dose of TQ (5.0 mg/kg) showing a more pronounced protective effect. Additionally, TQ co-administration increased Bax and decreased Bcl-2 and p53 protein levels (p < 0.05), thereby protecting the rats’ testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus from HgCl2-induced apoptosis. Molecular docking simulation analysis revealed TQ interaction dynamics with PPAR-α and PPAR-δ to suppress NF-kB-mediated pro-inflammatory sequela as well as activate Nrf-2-mediated antioxidant defence system. These predicted biological effects of TQ resonate with the findings from the in vivo studies. Therefore, supplementation with TQ may help reduce chemical-induced toxicities, including HgCl2‘s reproductive toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Novel Methods in Toxicology Research)
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17 pages, 8159 KB  
Article
Bangia fusco-purpurea Vegan Sausages: Orthogonal Experimental Optimization and Gel Formation Mechanism
by Xiaoting Chen, Shiqing Zhuo, Nan Pan, Yongchang Su, Zhiyu Liu and Jingna Wu
Foods 2025, 14(17), 3014; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14173014 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1270
Abstract
To develop highly nutritious Bangia fusco-purpurea (BFP) vegan sausages, we investigated the effects of BFP, gluten, and xanthan gum–konjac gum–carrageenan complex gel (CG) on the gel strength and sensory quality of the sausages. The formulation process was optimized through single-factor and orthogonal tests, [...] Read more.
To develop highly nutritious Bangia fusco-purpurea (BFP) vegan sausages, we investigated the effects of BFP, gluten, and xanthan gum–konjac gum–carrageenan complex gel (CG) on the gel strength and sensory quality of the sausages. The formulation process was optimized through single-factor and orthogonal tests, whereas the gel formation mechanism of the key factors was explored. The orthogonal test results showed that the optimal addition levels of BFP, gluten, and CG were 5%, 56%, and 37%, respectively. Variance analysis revealed that both gluten and CG significantly affected gel strength (p < 0.05), with gluten notably influencing the overall sensory quality (p < 0.05). Texture profile analysis (TPA) and rheological properties demonstrated that as gluten (33–37%) and CG (52–56%) concentrations increased, the gel strength and elastic modulus exhibited concentration-dependent enhancement. Further analysis of the sulfhydryl content, disulfide bonds, surface hydrophobicity, and microstructure revealed that higher gluten content promoted intermolecular disulfide crosslinking and hydrophobic group exposure, whereas CG contributed to physical filling via hydrogen and ionic bonds, resulting in a uniform and dense gel network structure. The synergistic effects of gluten and CG enhanced the gel properties of BFP vegan sausages, providing a theoretical foundation for the development of high-quality plant protein-based meat alternatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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19 pages, 1318 KB  
Article
Bioprotective Potential of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Pickled Pepper Rabbit Meat During Refrigerated Storage
by Jiamin Liang, Bo Wang, Jiamin Zhang, Ting Bai, Zhenguo Zhong and Zhonghua Tang
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2918; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162918 - 21 Aug 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1503
Abstract
The impacts of Lactilactilactobacillus sakei (LS), Pediococcus acidilactici (PA), and Latilactobacillus curvatus (LC) on quality properties, protein and lipid oxidation, and microbial dynamics of pickled pepper rabbit meat during refrigerated storage (4 °C for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days) were investigated. The [...] Read more.
The impacts of Lactilactilactobacillus sakei (LS), Pediococcus acidilactici (PA), and Latilactobacillus curvatus (LC) on quality properties, protein and lipid oxidation, and microbial dynamics of pickled pepper rabbit meat during refrigerated storage (4 °C for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days) were investigated. The results showed that the addition of lactic acid bacteria bioprotective agents effectively reduced the pH of pickled pepper rabbit meat, inhibited protein and lipid oxidation, suppressed the growth and proliferation of spoilage bacteria, and maintained favorable textural characteristics. Among the tested strains, Latilactobacillus curvatus exhibited the most significant preservation effects throughout the storage period. On day 7 of storage, the TBARS value of the LC group was 20.60% lower than that of the LS group and 14.68% lower than that of the PA group. Similarly, the total carbonyl content was 12.30% lower than the LS group and 6.21% lower than the PA group, while the total sulfhydryl content was 20.81% and 10.12% higher, respectively. Additionally, the TVB-N value was 11.91% lower than the LS group and 4.37% lower than the PA group. Additionally, the Latilactobacillus curvatus group maintained a lower pH, superior elasticity, chewiness, and cohesiveness, while effectively inhibiting spoilage bacterial growth and proliferation. In conclusion, Latilactobacillus curvatus was the most effective bioprotective agent for preserving the storage characteristics of pickled pepper rabbit meat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety and Quality Control in Meat Processing)
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24 pages, 11368 KB  
Article
Co-Supplementation of Policosanol and Banaba Leaf Extract Exhibited a Cooperative Effect Against Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia in Zebrafish: Highlighting Vital Organ Protection Against High-Cholesterol and High-Galactose Diet
by Kyung-Hyun Cho, Sang Hyuk Lee, Yunki Lee, Ashutosh Bahuguna, Ji-Eun Kim and Cheolmin Jeon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167669 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 2641
Abstract
The efficacy of Lagerstroemia speciosa (banaba) leaf extract (BLE), policosanol (POL), and their combination (BLE+POL) was evaluated in zebrafish (Danio rerio) against high cholesterol (HC)- and galactose (HG)-induced metabolic stress and organ toxicity. After 12 weeks of dietary intervention, BLE+POL significantly [...] Read more.
The efficacy of Lagerstroemia speciosa (banaba) leaf extract (BLE), policosanol (POL), and their combination (BLE+POL) was evaluated in zebrafish (Danio rerio) against high cholesterol (HC)- and galactose (HG)-induced metabolic stress and organ toxicity. After 12 weeks of dietary intervention, BLE+POL significantly reduced HC+HG-augmented weight gain and improved hepatic and nephromegaly. Compared with BLE or POL alone, the combined intake of BLE+POL more effectively alleviated dyslipidemia and blood glucose levels. Likewise, BLE+POL effectively reduced blood malondialdehyde (MDA), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and boosted plasma sulfhydryl content, ferric ion reduction ability (FRA), and paraoxonase (PON) activity. Histological outcomes suggest that BLE+POL has higher efficacy than either BLE or POL in mitigating HC+HG-induced fatty liver changes, hepatic inflammation, kidney senescence, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Consistently, BLE+POL augmented the spermatozoa counts in the testes, enhanced mature vitellogenic oocytes in ovaries, and protected them from the HC+HG-induced oxidative stress. Compared with either BLE or POL, a combined intake of BLE+POL displayed a superior effect in inhibiting the apoptosis and accumulation of lipid peroxidation species 4-hyrdoxynonenal (4-HNE) in the brain. A combined intake of BLE+POL exhibited a pronounced impact than the BLE and POL alone and can be utilized as an effective formulation to counteract the HC+HG-induced events. Full article
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26 pages, 5024 KB  
Article
Synergistic Efficacy of Policosanol (Raydel®) and Banaba Leaf Extract to Treat Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic and Hyperlipidemic Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Protection of Liver and Kidney with Enhanced Tissue Regeneration
by Kyung-Hyun Cho, Sang Hyuk Lee, Yunki Lee, Ashutosh Bahuguna and Ji-Eun Kim
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030362 - 3 Mar 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6047
Abstract
Background: The efficacy of banaba leaf extract was tested against carboxymethyllysine (CML)-induced toxicity in embryos and adult zebrafish. Additionally, the individual and combined effects of banaba (BNB) and policosanol (PCO) were analyzed to alleviate dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and associated effects in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperlipidemic [...] Read more.
Background: The efficacy of banaba leaf extract was tested against carboxymethyllysine (CML)-induced toxicity in embryos and adult zebrafish. Additionally, the individual and combined effects of banaba (BNB) and policosanol (PCO) were analyzed to alleviate dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and associated effects in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperlipidemic diabetic zebrafish. Methodology: The high cholesterol diet (HCD, final 4%, w/w)-fed zebrafish were injected with STZ to develop diabetes and were subsequently fed with either HCD or HCD+BNB (final 0.1% w/w) or HCD+PCO (final 0.1% w/w) or HCD+BNB+PCO (each final 0.1%, w/w) each for 14 days. The zebrafish tail fin was amputated to assess tissue regeneration, while the organs and blood were collected for histological and biochemical analysis. Results: Severely compromised embryo survivability and developmental defects were noticed in the CML-injected group that significantly improved following BNB exposure. Similarly, CML-induced acute paralysis and mortality of adult zebrafish were effectively mitigated by the treatment with BNB. In the hyperlipidemic diabetic zebrafish, both BNB and PCO supplementation displayed the hypoglycemic effect; however, a remarkable reduction (p < 0.05) in blood glucose levels was observed in the BNB+PCO group, around 14% and 16% less than the BNB group and PCO group, respectively. Likewise, higher tail fin regeneration was noticed in response to BNB+PCO supplementation. Both BNB and PCO have a substantial counter-effect against HCD+STZ-induced dyslipidemia. However, the combined supplementation (BNB+PCO) displayed a significantly better effect than that of BNB and PCO alone to alleviate total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The most impressive impact of BNB+PCO was noticed in the elevation of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), which was ~1.5 times higher than the HDL-C level in response to BNB and PCO. Also, BNB+PCO effectively reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated the plasma sulfhydryl content, paraoxonase (PON), and ferric ion reduction (FRA) activity. Histological analyses revealed a significant effect of BNB+PCO in preventing inflammatory infiltration, fatty liver changes, and interleukin-6 production. Similarly, a notably better effect of BNB+PCO compared to their individual effect was noticed in preventing kidney damage and mitigation of ROS generation, apoptosis, and cellular senescence. Conclusions: The finding establishes the substantial effect of BNB and PCO in countering hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and associated disorders, which synergistically improved following the combined supplementation with BNB+PCO. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products in Diabetes Mellitus: 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 5939 KB  
Article
Peperomia campylotropa A.W. Hill: Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical, and Metabolomic Profile Related to Its Gastroprotective Activity
by Yazmín K. Márquez-Flores, Jesús Ayala-Velasco, José Correa-Basurto, Alan Estrada-Pérez and M. Estela Meléndez-Camargo
Molecules 2025, 30(4), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040772 - 7 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1738
Abstract
Peperomia campylotropa (Piperaceae) is a species with a traditional Mexican gastroprotective use that has never-before been studied using metabolomics. This study explores the ethnobotanical use of the species, aiming to define the gastroprotective effect of the aqueous extract and characterize its secondary metabolites [...] Read more.
Peperomia campylotropa (Piperaceae) is a species with a traditional Mexican gastroprotective use that has never-before been studied using metabolomics. This study explores the ethnobotanical use of the species, aiming to define the gastroprotective effect of the aqueous extract and characterize its secondary metabolites by UHPLC–MS analysis. To validate its use, we botanically identified the species re-collected in the Municipality of Buenavista de Cuéllar, Guerrero, Mexico. We conducted interviews to provide evidence of the traditional details of its consumption and knowledge. Subsequently, qualitative phytochemical tests were performed to elucidate the possible secondary metabolites, which were also characterized under UHPLC–MS analysis and analyzed according to their primary type and retention times. Indomethacin (IND)- and ethanol (EtOH)-induced gastric damage models in Wistar rats were used for pharmacological evaluation, considering the ulceration index and gastroprotection percentage. Along with the participation in the mechanism of action of nitric oxide (NO), sulfhydryl (-SH) groups and prostaglandins (PG) were elucidated by Wistar rats pretreated with N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM), and IND, respectively. Acute intragastric toxicity was also estimated in NIH female mice. Ninety people were interviewed, revealing the traditional knowledge of P. campylotropa as food and medicine for stomach diseases, including irritation and indigestion. The presence of phenolic compounds (48%), N-containing compounds (22%), glycosides (21%), terpenoids (7%), and lactones (4%) were verified by preliminary phytochemical analysis and by UHPLC–MS in which 162 secondary metabolites were characterized. Besides that, the aqueous extract at 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg of body weight (b.w.) decreased the ulcerative index, showing gastroprotection percentages between 60 and 80%, similar to that of omeprazole. Furthermore, -SH group participation in its activity was established. All this evidence supports the gastroprotective activity of P. campylotropa for the first time and contributes to understanding its secondary metabolite content. Full article
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15 pages, 4328 KB  
Article
Effect of Ultrasonic Intensity Treatment on the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Coregonus peled Protamine
by Feifei Wang, Dong Shu, Yabo Wei, Xin Guo, Pingping Liu, Xiaorong Deng, Yunfeng Zhao, Yongdong Lei and Jian Zhang
Foods 2025, 14(3), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14030481 - 2 Feb 2025
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2485
Abstract
As the most valuable protein in the sperm of testes tissues of Coregonus peled, Coregonus peled protamine (CPP) had a natural antibacterial and antiseptic effect, but its physicochemical properties and functions are easily affected by the ultrasound-assisted extraction process. In this study, [...] Read more.
As the most valuable protein in the sperm of testes tissues of Coregonus peled, Coregonus peled protamine (CPP) had a natural antibacterial and antiseptic effect, but its physicochemical properties and functions are easily affected by the ultrasound-assisted extraction process. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction of CPP was used to investigate the effects of different ultrasonic intensities (0, 3.03, 6.07, 9.10, 12.13, and 15.16 W/cm2) on the structural and functional properties of CPP. The results showed that at moderate ultrasonic intensity (9.10 W/cm2), the protein was the most successful, as it was subjected to cavitation shear and microjet by ultrasound, which resulted in changes in protein structure, moderate unfolding of peptide chains, and changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of CPP. SEM images confirmed the changes in the microstructure of CPP. Ultrasound oxidized the proteins to varying degrees with the highest sulfhydryl and carbonyl and surface hydrophobicity content at an ultrasonic intensity of 9.10 W/cm2. At the same time, the solubility, antimicrobial activity, and heparin binding of CPP were affected. It is worth mentioning that the ultrasonicated CPP exhibited a stronger heparin-binding capacity compared to the non-ultrasonicated CPP. In conclusion, 9.10 W/cm2 was determined as the optimal ultrasonic intensity parameter for this study. In conclusion, the incorporation of appropriate ultrasonic intensity in the acidic extraction process could help to improve the functional properties of CPP, and ultrasound-assisted protein extraction has emerged as a reliable technique capable of modifying the structure and function of CPP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Physics and (Bio)Chemistry)
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22 pages, 5612 KB  
Article
The Effect of Disulfiram and N-Acetylcysteine, Potential Compensators for Sulfur Disorders, on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammation Leading to Memory Impairment and the Metabolism of L-Cysteine Disturbance
by Małgorzata Iciek, Anna Bilska-Wilkosz, Magdalena Górny, Marek Bednarski, Małgorzata Zygmunt, Anthea Miller, Noemi Nicosia, Giorgia Pia Lombardo, Paula Zammit and Magdalena Kotańska
Molecules 2025, 30(3), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30030578 - 27 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2503
Abstract
Background: The role of sulfur-containing drugs, disulfiram (DSF) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), in alleviating neuroinflammation is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of DSF and NAC on memory and on the metabolism of L-cysteine and inflammation-related parameters in [...] Read more.
Background: The role of sulfur-containing drugs, disulfiram (DSF) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), in alleviating neuroinflammation is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of DSF and NAC on memory and on the metabolism of L-cysteine and inflammation-related parameters in the cerebral cortex of rats in a model of neuroinflammation induced by the administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: All the treatments were administered intraperitoneally for 10 days (LPS at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg b.w., DSF at a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w, and NAC at a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w.). Behavior was evaluated by the novel object recognition (NOR) test and object location (OL) test, and the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was assayed to evaluate neuronal functioning. Cerebral cortex homogenates were tested for hydrogen sulfide (H2S), sulfane sulfur, sulfates, non-protein sulfhydryl groups (NPSH), nitric oxide (NO), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) by biochemical analysis. Results: Neither DSF nor NAC alleviated LPS-induced memory disorders estimated by the NOR test and OL test. The studied compounds also did not affect significantly the levels of BDNF, ROS, NO, H2S, and sulfane sulfur in the cerebral cortex. However, we observed an increase in sulfate concentration in brain tissues after LPS treatment, while DSF and NAC caused an additional increase in sulfate concentration. On the other hand, our study showed that the administration of DSF or NAC together with LPS significantly enhanced the cortical level of NPSH, of which glutathione is the main component. Conclusions: Our study did not confirm the suggested potential of DSF and NAC to correct memory disorders; however, it corroborated the notion that they reduced oxidative stress induced by LPS by increasing the NPSH level. Additionally, our study showed an increase in sulfate concentration in the brain tissues after LPS treatment, which means the upregulation of sulfite and sulfate production in inflammatory conditions. Full article
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11 pages, 19864 KB  
Article
An Aminobenzenethiol-Functionalized Gold Nanocolorimetric Sensor for Formaldehyde Detection
by Jing Xu, Liya Shen, Haining You and Yuanli Liu
Materials 2024, 17(24), 6087; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17246087 - 13 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1526
Abstract
The determination of formaldehyde is of paramount importance, as it is present in numerous locations throughout life. In this study, aminophenol-modified gold nanoparticles (ATP-AuNPs) with different relative positions of hydroxyl and amino groups were synthesized for the detection of formaldehyde. They were characterized [...] Read more.
The determination of formaldehyde is of paramount importance, as it is present in numerous locations throughout life. In this study, aminophenol-modified gold nanoparticles (ATP-AuNPs) with different relative positions of hydroxyl and amino groups were synthesized for the detection of formaldehyde. They were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy tests. The results demonstrated that the position plays a crucial role in the composites, which exhibit good stability when the sulfhydryl group and amino group transition from the para position to the neighboring position. Furthermore, the para position was identified as the optimal configuration for formaldehyde detection. When it was used to detect formaldehyde in ultrapure and Li River water, the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 1.03/1.15 mM, respectively. This work not only provides a novel ATP-AuNP sensor but also highlights its practical situations. Full article
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16 pages, 3219 KB  
Article
Enhancing Functional Properties and Protein Structure of Almond Protein Isolate Using High-Power Ultrasound Treatment
by Li Tian, Xinyong You, Shulin Zhang, Zhenbao Zhu, Jianhua Yi and Gang Jin
Molecules 2024, 29(15), 3590; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29153590 - 30 Jul 2024
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2927
Abstract
The suitability of a given protein for use in food products depends heavily on characteristics such as foaming capacity, emulsifiability, and solubility, all of which are affected by the protein structure. Notably, protein structure, and thus characteristics related to food applications, can be [...] Read more.
The suitability of a given protein for use in food products depends heavily on characteristics such as foaming capacity, emulsifiability, and solubility, all of which are affected by the protein structure. Notably, protein structure, and thus characteristics related to food applications, can be altered by treatment with high-power ultrasound (HUS). Almonds are a promising source of high-quality vegetable protein for food products, but their physicochemical and functional properties remain largely unexplored, limiting their current applications in foods. Here, we tested the use of HUS on almond protein isolate (API) to determine the effects of this treatment on API functional properties. Aqueous almond protein suspensions were sonicated at varying power levels (200, 400, or 600 W) for two durations (15 or 30 min). The molecular structure, protein microstructure, solubility, and emulsifying and foaming properties of the resulting samples were then measured. The results showed that HUS treatment did not break API covalent bonds, but there were notable changes in the secondary protein structure composition, with the treated proteins showing a decrease in α-helices and β-turns, and an increase in random coil structures as the result of protein unfolding. HUS treatment also increased the number of surface free sulfhydryl groups and decreased the intrinsic fluorescence intensity, indicating that the treatment also led to alterations in the tertiary protein structures. The particle size in aqueous suspensions was decreased in treated samples, indicating that HUS caused the dissociation of API aggregates. Finally, treated samples showed increased water solubility, emulsifying activity, emulsifying stability, foaming capacity, and foaming stability. This study demonstrated that HUS altered key physicochemical characteristics of API, improving critical functional properties including solubility and foaming and emulsifying capacities. This study also validated HUS as a safe and environmentally responsible tool for enhancing desirable functional characteristics of almond proteins, promoting their use in the food industry as a high-quality plant-based protein. Full article
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28 pages, 12628 KB  
Article
Oral Supplementation of Ozonated Sunflower Oil Augments Plasma Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Abilities with Enhancement of High-Density Lipoproteins Functionality in Rats
by Kyung-Hyun Cho, Ji-Eun Kim, Myeong-Sung Lee and Ashutosh Bahuguna
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050529 - 26 Apr 2024
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2870
Abstract
Research on ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is mostly restricted to its topical application, whereas the functional and toxicological assessment of oral OSO consumption is yet to be solved. Herein, OSO was orally supplemented in rats to assess the impact on plasma antioxidant status, [...] Read more.
Research on ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is mostly restricted to its topical application, whereas the functional and toxicological assessment of oral OSO consumption is yet to be solved. Herein, OSO was orally supplemented in rats to assess the impact on plasma antioxidant status, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Also, the functionality of HDL from the OSO-supplemented rats (OSO-HDL) was tested against carboxymethyllysine (CML)- induced hyperinflammation in embryo and adult zebrafish. The results revealed that four weeks of OSO supplementation (3 g/kg BW/day) had no adverse effect on rats’ hematological and blood biochemical profiles. Nonetheless, decreased interleukin (IL)-6, and LDL-C levels, along with enhanced ferric ion reduction ability (FRA) and sulfhydryl content, were observed in the plasma of OSO-supplemented rats compared to the control and sunflower oil (SO) supplemented group. In addition, OSO supplementation stabilized apoA-I/HDL and augmented HDL-allied paraoxonase (PON)-1 activity. The microinjection of OSO-HDL (10 nL, 2 mg/mL) efficiently prevented the CML (500 ng)-induced zebrafish embryo mortality and developmental deformities. Similarly, OSO-HDL thwarted CML-posed neurotoxicity and demonstrated a significant hepatoprotective effect against CML-induced fatty liver changes, hepatic inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, as well as exhibiting a noticeable influence to revert CML-induced dyslipidemia. Conclusively, OSO supplementation demonstrated no toxic effects on rats, ameliorated plasma antioxidant status, and positively influenced HDL stability and functionality, leading to a protective effect against CML-induced toxicity in zebrafish. Full article
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