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Search Results (213)

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18 pages, 1464 KiB  
Article
Killer Peptide-Containing Polyelectrolytic Nanocomplexes to Fight Toxoplasma gondii Infection
by Arianna Bucella, Manuela Semeraro, Laura Giovati, Lorenza Artesani, Ruggero Bettini, Annalisa Bianchera and Alice Vismarra
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1075; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081075 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 192
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, typically is asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals but causes severe complications in immunocompromised subjects and during pregnancy. Current treatments such as pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine are effective for acute infections but cannot eliminate encysted bradyzoites [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, typically is asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals but causes severe complications in immunocompromised subjects and during pregnancy. Current treatments such as pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine are effective for acute infections but cannot eliminate encysted bradyzoites and have significant side effects. The antimicrobial killer peptide (KP) has interesting therapeutic potential, but its intracellular delivery is challenging; hyaluronate-based nanoparticles loaded with KP (KP-NPs) were evaluated to target T. gondii-infected cells that overexpress CD44. Methods: KP-NPs made of chitosan and hyaluronate were produced by microfluidics and were characterized for size, surface charge, encapsulation efficiency, and stability under stress conditions. After excluding their toxicity, their activity was tested in vitro against Candida albicans and T. gondii as free tachyzoite or in infected human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs). Results: KP was efficiently encapsulated in nanoparticles and protected from harsh acidic conditions at high temperature. Preliminary in vitro testing against C. albicans showed that, at the lowest candidacidal concentration of KP (2.5 μg/mL), KP-NPs killed 90.97% of yeast cells. KP itself proved to be non-toxic for HFFs as host cells and effective against T. gondii. Comparable results were obtained for KP-NPs and blank nanoparticles (BLK-NPs), with no observed toxicity to host cells, confirming that encapsulation did not alter peptide efficacy. The parasiticidal effect of KP alone, as well as KP-NPs at 250 µg/mL and BLK-NPs, was confirmed through tests on free T. gondii tachyzoites. Reduction rates for the number of infected cells ranged from 66% to 90% with respect to control, while the reduction in the number of intracellular tachyzoites ranged from 66% to 80%. Interestingly, KP alone was not effective against intracellular tachyzoite, while KP-NPs maintained an efficacy comparable to the extracellular model, suggesting that particles helped the internalization of the peptide. Conclusions: Encapsulation of KP into hyaluronate/chitosan nanoparticles does not alter its activity and improves its efficacy against the intracellular parasite. Notably, BLK-NPs appeared to exhibit efficacy against the parasite on its own, without the presence of KP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanomedicine and Nanotechnology)
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26 pages, 4076 KiB  
Article
Yeast-Derived Glucan Particles: Biocompatibility, Efficacy, and Immunomodulatory Potential as Adjuvants and Delivery Systems
by João Panão-Costa, Mariana Colaço, Sandra Jesus, Filipa Lebre, Maria T. Cruz, Ernesto Alfaro-Moreno and Olga Borges
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081032 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 363
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Glucan particles (GPs), derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, possess unique biomedical properties. Nevertheless, it is imperative that a comprehensive risk assessment is conducted during pre-clinical development. GPs are primarily constituted of a naturally occurring polymer known as β-glucan. This study characterized [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Glucan particles (GPs), derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, possess unique biomedical properties. Nevertheless, it is imperative that a comprehensive risk assessment is conducted during pre-clinical development. GPs are primarily constituted of a naturally occurring polymer known as β-glucan. This study characterized GPs, focusing on physicochemical attributes, biocompatibility, and immunomodulatory potential. Methods: GPs were characterized for size, morphology, surface charge, and protein encapsulation efficiency using dynamic light scattering (DLS), electron microscopy, and encapsulation assays. Biocompatibility was assessed through cytotoxicity assays (MTT), hemolysis tests, and measurement of reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production in immune cells. Immunomodulatory potential was evaluated by cytokine and chemokine secretion analysis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) and through in vivo immunization studies in a murine model, focusing on cellular immune responses. Results: GPs demonstrated stable physicochemical properties and efficient protein encapsulation, highlighting their suitability as vaccine delivery systems. They exhibited biocompatibility by not inducing cytotoxicity, hemolysis, or excessive ROS and NO production. In PBMCs, GPs stimulated cytokine secretion, suggesting their adjuvant potential. GPs were efficiently internalized by monocytes and led to specific chemokine secretion in stimulated moDCs. In a murine model, GPs induced distinctive cellular immune responses, including TNF-α and IFN-γ production and effector memory T cell activation. Conclusions: These findings emphasize GPs’ biocompatibility and immunomodulatory effects, highlighting their potential in immunotherapy and vaccine development, particularly for targeting infectious agents like hepatitis B virus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Nanomaterials in Immunotherapies)
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16 pages, 3171 KiB  
Article
A Simple and Rapid Synthesis of Spherical Silver Phosphate (Ag3PO4) and Its Antimicrobial Activity in Plant Tissue Culture
by Nongnuch Laohavisuti, Banjong Boonchom, Pesak Rungrojchaipon, Wimonmat Boonmee, Somkiat Seesanong and Sirichet Punthipayanon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157371 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
A simple and rapid precipitation process was successfully employed to prepare silver phosphate (SP, Ag3PO4). Two different phosphate sources: diammonium hydrogen phosphate ((NH4)2HPO4) and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) were [...] Read more.
A simple and rapid precipitation process was successfully employed to prepare silver phosphate (SP, Ag3PO4). Two different phosphate sources: diammonium hydrogen phosphate ((NH4)2HPO4) and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) were applied separately as the precursor, obtaining ((NH4)2HPO4) and K2HPO4 derived SP powders, named SP-A or SP-P, respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra pointed out the vibrational characteristics of P–O and O–P–O interactions, confirming the presence of the PO43– functional group for SP. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns revealed that the SP crystallized in a cubic crystal structure. Whereas the field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) exposed spherical SP particles. The potentially antibacterial activity of SP-A and SP-P against bacterial Bacillus stratosphericus, yeast Meyerozyma guilliermondii, and fungal Phanerodontia chrysosporium was subsequently investigated. All studied microorganisms were recovered and isolated from the aquatic plant during the tissue culture process. The preliminary result of the antimicrobial test revealed that SP-A has higher antimicrobial activity than SP-P. The superior antimicrobial efficiency of SP-A compared to SP-P may be attributed to its purity and crystallite size, which provide a higher surface area and more active sites. In addition, the presence of potassium-related impurities in SP-P could have negatively affected its antimicrobial performance. These findings suggest that SP holds potential as an antimicrobial agent for maintaining sterility in tissue cultures, particularly in aquatic plant systems. The growth of both B. stratosphericus and M. guilliermondii was suppressed effectively at 30 ppm SP-A, whereas 10 ppm of SP-A can suppress P. chrysosporium development. This present work also highlights the potential of SP at very low concentrations (10–30 ppm) for utilization as an effective antimicrobial agent in tissue culture, compared to a commercial antimicrobial agent, viz., acetic acid, at the same concentration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Materials: Molecular Developments and Applications)
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15 pages, 725 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Evaluation of Ruminal Fermentation and Methane Production in Response to the Addition of Modified Nano-Bentonite with or Without Saccharomyces cerevisiae to a Forage-Based Diet
by Sohila Abo-Sherif, Sobhy Sallam, Ali M. Allam, Mounir El-Adawy and Yosra Soltan
Animals 2025, 15(14), 2081; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15142081 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 428
Abstract
Modified nano-clays, alone or combined with probiotics, may offer a novel and sustainable approach to improve ruminal fermentation and mitigate CH4 emissions in high-fiber diets. This study evaluated the properties and effects of modified nano-bentonite (MNB), with or without yeast (Saccharomyces [...] Read more.
Modified nano-clays, alone or combined with probiotics, may offer a novel and sustainable approach to improve ruminal fermentation and mitigate CH4 emissions in high-fiber diets. This study evaluated the properties and effects of modified nano-bentonite (MNB), with or without yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), compared to natural bentonite (NB) and monensin, using the in vitro gas production (GP) technique. The substrate used was a basal diet composed primarily of forage (Trifolium alexandrinum clover) in a 70:30 forage-to-concentrate ratio. The treatments were a control group receiving the basal diet without additives; a monensin-added diet containing 40 mg/kg of dry matter (DM); a yeast-added diet with Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 2 × 108 CFU/g of DM; a NB clay-added diet at 5 g/kg of DM; and MNB diets added at two levels (0.5 g/kg of DM (MNBLow) and 1 g/kg of DM (MNBHigh)), with or without S. cerevisiae. MNB showed a smaller particle size and improved properties, such as higher conductivity, surface area, and cation exchange capacity, than NB. Sulfur and related functional groups were detected only in MNB. No differences were observed in total GP, while both the monensin diet and the MNBHigh-with-yeast diet significantly reduced CH4 emissions compared to the control (p < 0.05). The MNBHigh-without-yeast combination significantly (p < 0.05) reduced hemicellulose degradation, as well as total protozoal counts, including Isotricha and Epidinium spp. (p < 0.05), compared to the control. Ammonia levels did not differ significantly among treatments, while NB and MNBHigh diets tended to have (p = 0.063) the highest short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations. These findings suggest the potential modulatory effects of yeast and MNB on rumen fermentation dynamics and CH4 mitigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Additives in Animal Nutrition)
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12 pages, 649 KiB  
Review
Melanoma Vaccines: Comparing Novel Adjuvant Treatments in High-Risk Patients
by Joseph C. Broderick, Alexandra M. Adams, Elizabeth L. Barbera, Spencer Van Decar, Guy T. Clifton and George E. Peoples
Vaccines 2025, 13(6), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13060656 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 774
Abstract
Background: The emergence of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) has significantly improved survival outcomes in later-stage melanoma. However, the efficacy of these treatments remains limited, with around 50% of later-stage melanoma patients experiencing recurrence. As variable response rates to CPIs persist, the development of cancer [...] Read more.
Background: The emergence of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) has significantly improved survival outcomes in later-stage melanoma. However, the efficacy of these treatments remains limited, with around 50% of later-stage melanoma patients experiencing recurrence. As variable response rates to CPIs persist, the development of cancer vaccines has emerged as a potential strategy to augment antitumor immune responses. Results: This review compares two promising personalized therapeutic cancer vaccine trials in advanced melanoma: Elios Therapeutics’ Tumor Lysate (TL) vaccine and Moderna’s mRNA-4157 vaccine. The TL vaccine, which utilizes yeast cell wall particles (YCWPs) loaded with autologous tumor lysate, and the mRNA-4157 vaccine, which encodes up to 34 patient-specific neoantigens, both aim to stimulate robust tumor-specific immune responses. Both trials were phase 2b randomized studies, with Elios Therapeutics’ trial employing a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, while Moderna’s was open-label. Both trials had roughly equivalent sample sizes (n = 187 and n = 157, respectively) with similar demographics and disease characteristics. The TL trial reported improvements in disease-free survival (DFS) with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.52 (p < 0.01) over 36 months, whereas the mRNA-4157 trial demonstrated improvements in recurrence-free survival (RFS) with an HR of 0.56 (p = 0.053) over 18 months. The TL vaccine exhibited lower rates of related grade 3 adverse events (<1%) compared to the mRNA vaccine (12%). Key differences between the two trials include the use of CPIs, with 100% of patients in the mRNA trial receiving pembrolizumab versus 37% of the patients in the TL trial receiving either an anti-PD-1 or anti-CTLA-4. The production processes also varied significantly, with the mRNA vaccine requiring individualized sequencing and a 9-week production time, while the TL vaccine utilized tumor lysate with a 1–3-day production time. Conclusions: While both vaccines demonstrated promising efficacy, future phase 3 trials are needed to further evaluate their potential as adjuvant therapies for melanoma. This review highlights the comparative strengths and limitations of these vaccine platforms, providing insight into the evolving landscape of adjuvant cancer vaccines. Full article
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26 pages, 7008 KiB  
Article
Single-Domain Antibodies That Specifically Recognize Intact Capsids of Multiple Foot-and-Mouth Disease Serotype O Strains
by Michiel M. Harmsen, Nishi Gupta, Quillan Dijkstra, Sandra van de Water, Marga van Setten and Aldo Dekker
Vaccines 2025, 13(5), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13050500 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 686
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Intact (146S) foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) particles easily dissociate into 12S particles with a concomitant decreased immunogenicity. Vaccine quality control with 146S-specific single-domain antibodies (VHHs) is hampered by the high strain specificity of most 146S-specific VHHs. This study aimed to isolate 146S-specific [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Intact (146S) foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) particles easily dissociate into 12S particles with a concomitant decreased immunogenicity. Vaccine quality control with 146S-specific single-domain antibodies (VHHs) is hampered by the high strain specificity of most 146S-specific VHHs. This study aimed to isolate 146S-specific VHHs that recognize all serotype O strains. Methods: Biopanning was performed with the FMDV strain O/SKR/7/2010 146S, using a secondary library of mutagenized M170F VHH that did not recognize O/SKR/7/2010 or using phage-display libraries from llamas immunized with other serotype O strains. Novel VHHs were yeast-produced and their strain-, particle-, and antigenic-site specificities were determined by ELISA. Results: M170F mutagenesis did not improve the cross-reaction with O/SKR/7/2010. However, selection from immune libraries resulted in four VHHs that exhibited high 146S specificity for all five serotype O strains analyzed. These VHHs presumably recognize all serotype O strains since the five strains analyzed represent different phylogenetic clades. They bind the same antigenic site as M170F, which was previously shown to be a conserved site in serotypes A and O, and which has an altered 3D structure when 146S dissociates into 12S particles. M916F had the lowest limit of detection, which varied from 0.7 to 5.9 ng/mL 146S particles for three serotype O strains. Conclusions: We identified four VHHs (M907F, M910F, M912F, and M916F) that specifically bind 146S particles of probably all serotype O strains. They enable further improved FMDV vaccine quality control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine and Vaccination in Veterinary Medicine)
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25 pages, 2801 KiB  
Article
Encapsulation of Monascus Pigments Using Enzyme-Modified Yeast Protein–Polysaccharide Complex Pickering Emulsions to Increase Its Stability During Storage
by Ziyan Zhao, Jinling Zhao, Sirong Liu, Mengxuan Liu, Xiangquan Zeng, He Li, Yu Xi and Jian Li
Foods 2025, 14(8), 1366; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14081366 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1001
Abstract
Yeast protein (YP) is rich in nutrients, but its emulsifying properties, especially emulsifying stability, still need to be improved. In this study, cationic polysaccharide chitosan (CS) and anionic polysaccharide xanthan gum (XG) were selected to enhance the emulsifying properties of protein emulsions. The [...] Read more.
Yeast protein (YP) is rich in nutrients, but its emulsifying properties, especially emulsifying stability, still need to be improved. In this study, cationic polysaccharide chitosan (CS) and anionic polysaccharide xanthan gum (XG) were selected to enhance the emulsifying properties of protein emulsions. The preparation conditions of the emulsions were optimized by calculating particle size, zeta potential, emulsifying activity index, emulsifying stability index, and emulsifying capacity index, as well as macroscopic observation. The optimized emulsions were characterized using confocal laser scanning microscopy, rheology, Raman spectroscopy, color difference analysis, and storage stability. The results showed that the stability of yeast protein/modified yeast protein–chitosan (YP/EYP–CS) emulsions was better at pH 5.5, with a protein:polysaccharide ratio of 1:1 and an oil phase addition of 40%, while the stability of yeast protein/modified yeast protein–xanthan gum (YP/EYP–XG) emulsions was better at pH 3.5, with a protein:polysaccharide ratio of 1:1 and an oil phase addition of 50%. Further analysis indicated that the emulsions with CS had smaller particle sizes and lower initial viscosities, but more hydrogen bonds and better encapsulation of Monascus pigment (MP), especially the EYP–CS emulsion (81.18%). In contrast, the emulsions with XG had uniform droplet sizes and high thermal stability and exhibited obvious shear thinning behavior with increasing shear rates. The network structure of the emulsions was mainly elastic, and the hydrophobic interaction was stronger. This study provides insights into the utilization of yeast protein in the food industry and the development of emulsification systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Packaging and Preservation)
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19 pages, 4183 KiB  
Article
Construction of a Yeast Protein-Chitooligosaccharide W/O/W Emulsion System for Carrying and Stabilization of Betacyanins
by Yichen Li, Jiaqi Ding, Yaxin Wu, Shihao Sun, Demei Meng, Chunkai Gu and Rui Yang
Foods 2025, 14(8), 1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14081337 - 13 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 675
Abstract
Natural pigments like betacyanins are highly unstable under heat, light, acid, and alkaline conditions. Yeast protein (YP) is a promising substitute protein, while chitooligosaccharides (COS) are water-soluble alkaline polysaccharides. Water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) emulsions, with two-membrane, three-phase structure, can serve as [...] Read more.
Natural pigments like betacyanins are highly unstable under heat, light, acid, and alkaline conditions. Yeast protein (YP) is a promising substitute protein, while chitooligosaccharides (COS) are water-soluble alkaline polysaccharides. Water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) emulsions, with two-membrane, three-phase structure, can serve as effective carriers for stabilizing pigments. In this study, YP-COS complexes formed through electrostatic interactions were used as hydrophilic emulsifiers to create betacyanin-coated W1/O/W2 emulsions. The W1/O colostrum was designed to make up 30%, 70%, and 90% of the emulsion (v/v)and the W2 was designed by the complexes with three concentrations of YP (2%, 1.25% and 0.5%, w/v)-COS (6%, 3.75% and 1.5%, w/v). The optimal formulation was determined through comprehensive evaluation of micromorphological characteristics, particle size, zeta potential and creaming index, ultimately yielding a system comprising YP (2%)-COS (6%) and 90% W1/O colostrum. Moreover, the W1/O/W2 emulsion system significantly improved the betacyanins retention under thermal treatment, photolytic exposure, pH gradients, and extended storage compared to the betacyanin aqueous solution (p < 0.05). In vitro digestion tests showed the emulsion retained 58.39% of betacyanins, while the betacyanin aqueous solution retained only 41.42%, demonstrating the emulsion’s ability to delay the betacyanins release, offering new insights for using YP-COS complexes in food production and other fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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17 pages, 2645 KiB  
Article
Mathematical Modeling and Dynamic Simulation of a Tower Reactor for Intensified Ethanol Fermentation with Immobilized Yeasts and Simultaneous Gas Removal
by Dile Stremel, Valéria Pulitano and Samuel Oliveira
Processes 2025, 13(4), 1122; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13041122 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 631
Abstract
A mathematical model was developed for the dynamic and static simulation of a continuous ethanol production process in a tower bioreactor packed with yeast cells immobilized in citrus pectin gel. To avoid accumulation of CO2 gas during the bioprocess, a vertical fixed [...] Read more.
A mathematical model was developed for the dynamic and static simulation of a continuous ethanol production process in a tower bioreactor packed with yeast cells immobilized in citrus pectin gel. To avoid accumulation of CO2 gas during the bioprocess, a vertical fixed bed bioreactor with a working volume of 0.245 L, divided into four stages and equipped with external gas–liquid separators was used. The performance of the bioreactor was evaluated through continuous fermentations using feed medium (sugarcane juice) with substrate concentrations of 161.4 and 312.5 g/L, temperature of 30 °C, pH 4.0 and hydraulic residence times of 5 and 6 h. The developed mathematical model takes into account mass flow by convection and dispersion axial, external and internal mass transfer to/within particle, Contois kinetics for cell growth with inhibition terms, cell death, and substrate consumption for cell maintenance. The partial differential equations regarding cell, substrate and product mass balances in the solid and fluid phase were solved by numerical methods. The calculated profiles of state variables in the fluid phase agreed satisfactorily with the experimental data. The diffusional resistances within particles concerning the substrate consumption rate were not significant, resulting in calculated values of the effectiveness factor close to one. Full article
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12 pages, 1224 KiB  
Article
Spectroscopic Analysis of Selenium Nanoparticles Synthesized by Saccharomyces boulardii for the Production of Craft Beer
by Lourdes González-Salitre, Luis Guillermo González-Olivares, Alexis Alejandro Salazar-Navarro, David Cervantes-García, Dagoberto Durán-Hernández, Ricardo Torres-Ramos, Mary Triny Beleño-Cabarcas and Ulin Antobelli Basilio-Cortes
Fermentation 2025, 11(3), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11030144 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1422
Abstract
Selenium is an essential micronutrient which is found in many foods and beverages in low concentrations. Craft beer, one of the most widely consumed fermented beverages globally, presents a strategic opportunity for selenium intake through organic nanoparticles. This study aimed to confirm the [...] Read more.
Selenium is an essential micronutrient which is found in many foods and beverages in low concentrations. Craft beer, one of the most widely consumed fermented beverages globally, presents a strategic opportunity for selenium intake through organic nanoparticles. This study aimed to confirm the presence of selenium nanoparticles in the fermentation process of an ale-style beer using S. boulardii yeast selenized with Na2SeO3 (74 ppm), through spectroscopic analysis and TEM. The yeast accumulated 5.92 mg/g of dry cell mass, and the beer contained 0.642 mg/g of selenium. UV-VIS detected nanoparticles with a peak at 300 nm and FT-IR at a wavelength of 1398.85 cm−1. The particle size ranged between 74 to 175 nm, with a maximum ζ-potential of −4.2 mV, an electrophoretic mobility of −0.3492 μm × cm Vs−1, and a conductivity of 2.656 mS cm−1. TEM analysis revealed that the nanoparticles exhibited circular/ovoid shapes. The fermentation process, combined with the ingredients used to produce ale-type craft beer, proved to be a feasible method for the biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles using S. boulardii, offering a reliable option for developing and innovating functional craft beers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fermentation: 10th Anniversary)
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18 pages, 2347 KiB  
Article
Bioconversion of Liquid and Solid Lipid Waste by Yarrowia lipolytica Yeast: A Study of Extracellular Lipase Biosynthesis and Microbial Lipid Production
by Katarzyna Wierzchowska, Karolina Szulc, Bartłomiej Zieniuk and Agata Fabiszewska
Molecules 2025, 30(4), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040959 - 19 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1308
Abstract
This study investigated the capabilities of Yarrowia lipolytica strains to grow in media with different hydrophobic wastes from the meat industry. The yeast growth, cellular lipid accumulation, production of lipases, and degree of utilization of liquid and solid lipid wastes were studied in [...] Read more.
This study investigated the capabilities of Yarrowia lipolytica strains to grow in media with different hydrophobic wastes from the meat industry. The yeast growth, cellular lipid accumulation, production of lipases, and degree of utilization of liquid and solid lipid wastes were studied in shaken cultures in media with organic and inorganic nitrogen sources. The effects of the type of waste, initial concentration of carbon source, Yarrowia strain, and inoculum size were investigated in two experimental sets using the Latin Square 5 × 5 design method. Post-frying rapeseed oil from chicken frying was selected as the carbon source to promote biomass growth. In contrast, the solid lipid fraction from meat broths promoted efficient lipid accumulation and yeast lipolytic activity. An initial concentration of the carbon source at 8% m/v stimulated efficient lipid biosynthesis and lipase production, while 2.5% v/v inoculum provided optimal conditions for the growth and utilization of hydrophobic substrates. No significant differences were observed in the particle dispersion of the liquid and solid wastes in the culture media (span = 2.51–3.23). The maximum emulsification index (62%) was observed in the culture of the Y. lipolytica KKP 323 strain in the medium with post-frying rapeseed oil from chicken frying, which was correlated with biosurfactant synthesis. It was concluded that the type of waste, its structure, and its composition affected various physiological yeast responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Feature Papers in Macromolecular Chemistry)
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21 pages, 4325 KiB  
Article
Effect of the Incorporation of an Innovative Monomer with a Quaternary Ammonium Group into a Temporary Soft Liner on Its Biological and Physicochemical Properties
by Patrycja Kula, Izabela Barszczewska-Rybarek, Anna Mertas and Grzegorz Chladek
Molecules 2025, 30(4), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040941 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 738
Abstract
The colonizing of temporary soft lining materials in the oral cavity by yeast-like fungi, particularly Candida albicans, poses a significant risk of complications during prosthetic treatment. Various experimental materials incorporating antimicrobial additives, such as drugs, natural oils, and inorganic particles, have been [...] Read more.
The colonizing of temporary soft lining materials in the oral cavity by yeast-like fungi, particularly Candida albicans, poses a significant risk of complications during prosthetic treatment. Various experimental materials incorporating antimicrobial additives, such as drugs, natural oils, and inorganic particles, have been tested. However, these components are not chemically bonded to a polymer network, making them prone to being easily released into the surrounding environment. This study aimed to evaluate experimental soft lining materials containing liquid components with 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl-2-decylhydroxyethylmethylammonium bromide, a monomethacrylate monomer with a quaternary ammonium group, added at concentrations of 8.54%, 8.75%, and 14.90% by weight. The adherence of Candida albicans, cytotoxicity, glass transition temperature (Tg), sorption (WS), solubility (WSL), Shore A hardness (SHA), tensile strength (TS), and tensile bond strength (TBS) were tested. Two tested materials did not show cytotoxicity for the 2-day undiluted extracts. The Candida albicans adhesions were reduced for two materials. The SHA values compared to the control were varied but all decreased with time. WS and WSL increased compared to the control. The TBS values were at an acceptable level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Feature Papers in Macromolecular Chemistry)
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19 pages, 2302 KiB  
Article
Utilization of Yeast Cells as Alternative Carriers in the Microencapsulation of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Phenolic Extract
by Özlem Aktürk Gümüşay, İnci Cerit and Omca Demirkol
Foods 2025, 14(4), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14040625 - 13 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1006
Abstract
The structure of yeast cells, which are rich in bioactive compounds, makes them an attractive encapsulation vehicle due to their antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimutagenic properties. In this study, black chokeberry extract was encapsulated with different wall materials (maltodextrin, gum arabic, mixture of maltodextrin [...] Read more.
The structure of yeast cells, which are rich in bioactive compounds, makes them an attractive encapsulation vehicle due to their antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimutagenic properties. In this study, black chokeberry extract was encapsulated with different wall materials (maltodextrin, gum arabic, mixture of maltodextrin and gum arabic, plasmolyzed yeast, and non-plasmolyzed yeast) by freeze-drying. While the highest encapsulation efficiency was obtained with maltodextrin (98.82%), non-plasmolyzed yeast (86.58%) emerged as a viable alternative to gum arabic. The largest particle size was observed in plasmolyzed yeast microcapsules. Yeast-coated capsules exhibited a spheroidal morphology. Differential Scanning Calorimetry revealed high thermal stability for all microcapsules, with the gum arabic-coated microcapsules demonstrating the greatest stability. After the simulated gastric and intestinal fluid treatment, plasmolyzed yeast provided the highest retention, with 63.45% and 77.55% of phenolics, respectively. The highest 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activities were found in yeast microcapsules, with no significant difference between them. In 2,2′-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) scavenging activity, the least loss (approximately 10%) was observed in non-plasmolyzed yeast samples after intestinal digestion. These results showed that yeast can be used as an alternative coating material in the encapsulation of phenolics, and it contributes to the bioavailability of microcapsules with its protective effect during digestion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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20 pages, 7917 KiB  
Article
Effect of Drying Aids on the Quality Properties of Kefir Powder
by Stylianos Exarhopoulos, Dimitris Karipoglou, Olga Groztidou, Despoina Georgiou, Eleni P. Kalogianni, Athanasios Goulas and Georgia Dimitreli
Dairy 2025, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/dairy6010009 - 10 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1233
Abstract
The biological and nutritional value of kefir makes it imperative to widen its customer reach by extending its shelf life, enabling its storage and transport at ambient temperatures, and reducing its packaging cost requirements. A well-documented and widely used food processing method that [...] Read more.
The biological and nutritional value of kefir makes it imperative to widen its customer reach by extending its shelf life, enabling its storage and transport at ambient temperatures, and reducing its packaging cost requirements. A well-documented and widely used food processing method that can achieve the above-mentioned outcomes is spray drying through the formulation of kefir powder, with quality attributes that will closely resemble that of the original product. In the present work, a variety of drying carriers (trehalose, fructo-oligosaccharides, maltodextrin, gum arabic, and whey proteins) were studied with regard to their effect on the properties of powdered and reconstituted kefir samples. Particularly, the physicochemical characteristics (moisture content, pH, acidity, color), powder properties (bulk density, tapped density, water solubility index, insoluble matter), adsorption isotherms, particle size distribution, microbiological properties, and structural characteristics of the samples were evaluated. Gum arabic and maltodextrin produced kefir powder samples with the lowest moisture content. Spray drying affected a reduced acidity and, as a consequence, an increased pH in the reconstituted samples, especially without any carrier addition and with trehalose and fructo-oligosaccharides irrespective of their concentration. Desirable color attributes were achieved on the kefir powder samples with trehalose, fructo-oligosaccharides, and maltodextrin regardless of their concentration in the product. Fructo-oligosaccharides, added at 3%, gave the highest values of bulk density, while whey proteins, due to their nature, exhibited the lowest. All carriers tested improved the water solubility index when compared to the control sample. The sample with 10% whey proteins exhibited the lowest moisture adsorption compared to the control at the highest relative humidity environments employed for the test. In the absence of agglomeration, powder granule size and structural morphology were not affected by the carriers. The survival of lactococci in the powdered kefir samples, in comparison to the control product, was higher in the case where 4% trehalose or 5 to 10% whey proteins were added. On the contrary, yeast populations decreased significantly during drying and they were not affected by the presence of the different carriers. As shown by the findings of the present study, trehalose proved to be the most effective carrier, among the others used, for producing high-quality kefir powder products. However, further work is required with regard to the keeping quality of the product during long-term storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Milk Processing)
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17 pages, 4002 KiB  
Article
Effect of Thermal Treatment and the Addition of Texture Modifiers on the Rheological Properties and the Microflora of Reconstituted Kefir Powder
by Stylianos Exarhopoulos, Euripides Krystallis, Eleni Rousi, Olga Groztidou, Despoina Georgiou, Eleni P. Kalogianni, Athanasios Goulas and Georgia Dimitreli
Macromol 2025, 5(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/macromol5010007 - 6 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1225
Abstract
The present study examines the effect of low-temperature thermal treatment before drying, through storage at −10 °C and 4 °C for 72 h, respectively, on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of spray-dried kefir powder. Furthermore, with the intention of improving the rheological behavior [...] Read more.
The present study examines the effect of low-temperature thermal treatment before drying, through storage at −10 °C and 4 °C for 72 h, respectively, on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of spray-dried kefir powder. Furthermore, with the intention of improving the rheological behavior of the reconstituted product, texture modifiers were employed including milk proteins (milk proteins, sodium caseinates, and whey protein concentrates) and carrageenan. According to the results, the low-temperature thermal treatment of kefir, prior to drying, resulted to an increased moisture content and yellowness of the kefir powder samples, with a simultaneous drop to the whiteness index and an increase of the particle size in both the powder and the reconstituted samples. The sample with prior treatment at 4 °C for 72 h, exhibited decreased pH values and increased acidity for both kefir and reconstituted product, while it also improved post drying population survival of lactobacilli and yeasts. The reconstituted sample with prior treatment at −10 °C for 72 h, exhibited evident pseudoplastic behavior, which, at low shear rates, yielded viscosity values very close to those of the fresh control kefir. Addition of sodium caseinates, in the absence and/or simultaneous presence of carrageenan, resulted to the highest viscosity increase of the reconstituted products. Milk proteins with the combined presence of carrageenan exhibited similar apparent viscosity values to the control. Full article
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