Journal Description
Biology
Biology
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of biological sciences published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society for Nitrogen Fixation (SEFIN) and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) are affiliated with Biology, and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Biology) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Agricultural and Biological Sciences)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Swimming at Increasing Speeds in Steady and Unsteady Flows of Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar: Oxygen Consumption, Locomotory Behaviour and Overall Dynamic Body Acceleration
Biology 2024, 13(6), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060393 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
The swimming performance of cultured finfish species is typically studied under steady flow conditions. However, flow conditions are mostly unsteady, for instance, as experienced in sea pens in exposed sea areas. Using a Loligo swim tunnel, we investigated the effects of swimming in
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The swimming performance of cultured finfish species is typically studied under steady flow conditions. However, flow conditions are mostly unsteady, for instance, as experienced in sea pens in exposed sea areas. Using a Loligo swim tunnel, we investigated the effects of swimming in steady and unsteady flows at increasing swimming speeds on post-smolt Atlantic salmon. Oxygen consumption (MO2), locomotory behaviour, and overall dynamic body acceleration (ODBA), as determined with implanted acoustic sensor tags, were compared between both flow conditions. Results were obtained for mean swimming speeds of 0.2 to 0.8 m.s−1 under both flow conditions. Sensor tags that were implanted in the abdominal cavity had no significant effects on MO2 and locomotory parameters. The MO2 of fish swimming in unsteady flows was significantly higher (15–53%) than when swimming in steady flows (p < 0.05). Significant interaction effects of ODBA with flow conditions and swimming speed were found. ODBA was strongly and positively correlated with swimming speed and MO2 in unsteady flow (R2 = 0.94 and R2 = 0.93, respectively) and in steady flow (R2 = 0.91 and R2 = 0.82, respectively). ODBA predicts MO2 well over the investigated range of swimming speeds in both flow conditions. In an unsteady flow condition, ODBA increased twice as fast with MO2 compared with steady flow conditions (p < 0.05). From these results, we can conclude that (1) swimming in unsteady flow is energetically more costly for post-smolt Atlantic salmon than swimming in steady flow, as indicated by higher MO2, and (2) ODBA can be used to estimate the oxygen consumption of post-smolt Atlantic salmon in unsteady flow in swim tunnels.
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(This article belongs to the Section Physiology)
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Flexible Resource Allocation-Efficient Water Use Strategies Facilitate Invasion of Invasive Vine Sicyos angulatus L.
by
Qingmin Pan, Chenyang Xue, Lin Meng, Ying Gao, Mengyang Yu, Lin Geng, Ping Guan and Bo Qu
Biology 2024, 13(6), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060392 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
The invasive vine Sicyos angulatus L. destroys the natural ecosystem of invaded areas. Understanding the differences in growth and development between S. angulatus and other plants is necessary to explore the invasion mechanisms of S. angulatus and implement appropriate prevention and control measures.
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The invasive vine Sicyos angulatus L. destroys the natural ecosystem of invaded areas. Understanding the differences in growth and development between S. angulatus and other plants is necessary to explore the invasion mechanisms of S. angulatus and implement appropriate prevention and control measures. Thus, this study compared the growth, photosynthesis, and root characteristics of invasive liana S. angulatus and other three vine plants, Ipomoea nil (L.) Roth, Ipomoea purpurea (L.), and Thladiantha dubia Bunge, at different growth stages: seedling, flowering, and fruiting. The results showed that the total biomass of S. angulatus in the fruiting stage was 3–6 times that of the other three plants, and the root biomass ratio and root–shoot ratio decreased throughout the growth stage. Throughout the growth stage, the total leaf area of S. angulatus was significantly higher than that of the other three plant types, and the specific leaf area of S. angulatus at the seedling and flowering stages was 2.5–3 and 1.4–3 times that of the other three plants, respectively. The photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate of S. angulatus at the fruiting stage were significantly higher than those of the other three plants, and its water use efficiency was higher than that of the other three plants at the three growth stages, indicating its strong photosynthetic capacity. The root activity and root pressure of S. angulatus were also significantly higher than those of the other three plants at the seedling and flowering stages. These results show that S. angulatus flexibly allocates resources to its aboveground parts during the growth stage to ensure that the plant obtains the space necessary for its growth and development and that with the help of higher root pressure and root activity, S. angulatus can maintain higher photosynthesis and water use efficiency with fewer resources. Therefore, the prevention and control of S. angulatus requires a combination of aboveground and underground measures. Spraying conventional weedicide/herbicide and manually removing aboveground plants may lead to its resurgence.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Ecology and Management of Invasive Alien Plants)
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Open AccessReview
RNA Binding by the m6A Methyltransferases METTL16 and METTL3
by
Kyle D. Mansfield
Biology 2024, 13(6), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060391 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Methyltransferases are a wide-ranging, yet well-conserved, class of molecules that have been found to modify a wide variety of substrates. Interest in RNA methylation has surged in recent years with the identification of the major eukaryotic mRNA m6A methyltransferase METTL3. METTL16 has also
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Methyltransferases are a wide-ranging, yet well-conserved, class of molecules that have been found to modify a wide variety of substrates. Interest in RNA methylation has surged in recent years with the identification of the major eukaryotic mRNA m6A methyltransferase METTL3. METTL16 has also been identified as an RNA m6A methyltransferase; however, much less is known about its targets and actions. Interestingly, in addition to their catalytic activities, both METTL3 and METTL16 also have “methylation-independent” functions, including translational regulation, which have been discovered. However, evidence suggests that METTL16’s role as an RNA-binding protein may be more significant than is currently recognized. In this review, we will introduce RNA methylation, specifically m6A, and the enzymes responsible for its deposition. We will discuss the varying roles that these enzymes perform and delve deeper into their RNA targets and possible roles as methylation-independent RNA binding proteins. Finally, we will touch upon the many open questions still remaining.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: The Dynamics of RNA–Protein Interactions)
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Open AccessArticle
Thai Oakleaf Lettuce Phenocopies a Phytochrome B Mutant
by
Cade Cooper and Kevin M. Folta
Biology 2024, 13(6), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060390 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Photomorphogenic development in seedlings may be diagnostic of future plant performance. In this report, we characterize the Thai Oakleaf lettuce genotype, as it exhibited abnormalities in photomorphogenic development that were the most conspicuous under red light, including defects in hypocotyl growth inhibition, decreased
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Photomorphogenic development in seedlings may be diagnostic of future plant performance. In this report, we characterize the Thai Oakleaf lettuce genotype, as it exhibited abnormalities in photomorphogenic development that were the most conspicuous under red light, including defects in hypocotyl growth inhibition, decreased cotyledon expansion, and constitutive shade avoidance tendencies. These observations are consistent with defects in red light sensing through the phytochrome B (phyB) photoreceptor system. This genotype is sold commercially as a heat-tolerant variety, which aligns with the evidence that phyB acts as a thermosensor.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological, Biochemical, and Molecular Response in Plants under Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Treatment (Volume II))
Open AccessArticle
Baseline Inventory of Benthic Macrofauna in German Marine Protected Areas (2020–2022) before Closure for Bottom-Contact Fishing
by
Mayya Gogina, Sarah Joy Hahn, Ramona Ohde, Angelika Brandt, Stefan Forster, Ingrid Kröncke, Martin Powilleit, Katharina Romoth, Moritz Sonnewald and Michael L. Zettler
Biology 2024, 13(6), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060389 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The response of benthic habitats and organisms to bottom-contact fishing intensity is investigated in marine protected areas (MPAs) of the German EEZ in the North and Baltic Seas. We examined the current state of macrofauna biodiversity in 2020–2022. Comparative analysis for macrofauna (in-
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The response of benthic habitats and organisms to bottom-contact fishing intensity is investigated in marine protected areas (MPAs) of the German EEZ in the North and Baltic Seas. We examined the current state of macrofauna biodiversity in 2020–2022. Comparative analysis for macrofauna (in- and epifauna) inhabiting nine Natura 2000 MPAs constitutes a baseline to assess the effects of bottom-contact fishing exclusion in the future. Aspects of spatial and temporal variability are briefly summarized and discussed. We provide a species list for each region, including 481 taxa, of which 79 were found in both regions, 183 only in the North Sea, and 219 only in the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea dataset surprisingly included higher numbers of taxa and revealed more Red List species. The share of major taxonomic groups (polychaetes, bivalves and amphipods) in species richness showed peculiar commonalities between the two regions. In the North Sea, multivariate analysis of community structure revealed significantly higher within-similarity and stronger separation between the considered MPAs compared to the Baltic MPAs. Salinity, temperature and sediment fractions of sand were responsible for over 60% of the variation in the North Sea macrofauna occurrence data. Salinity, mud fraction and bottom-contact fishing were the most important drivers in the Baltic Sea and, together with other considered environmental drivers, were responsible for 53% of the variation. This study identifies aspects of macrofauna occurrence that may be used to assess (causes of) future changes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benthic Biodiversity from Microbes to Multicellular Organisms and Its Functional Interplays)
Open AccessCommunication
Whole Genome Analysis and Assessment of the Metabolic Potential of Streptomyces carpaticus SCPM-O-B-9993, a Promising Phytostimulant and Antiviral Agent
by
Yulia Bataeva, Yanina Delegan, Alexander Bogun, Lidiya Shishkina and Lilit Grigoryan
Biology 2024, 13(6), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060388 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This work aimed to study the genome organization and the metabolic potential of Streptomyces carpaticus strain SCPM-O-B-9993, a promising plant-protecting and plant-stimulating strain isolated from brown semi-desert soils with very high salinity. The strain genome contains a linear chromosome 5,968,715 bp long and
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This work aimed to study the genome organization and the metabolic potential of Streptomyces carpaticus strain SCPM-O-B-9993, a promising plant-protecting and plant-stimulating strain isolated from brown semi-desert soils with very high salinity. The strain genome contains a linear chromosome 5,968,715 bp long and has no plasmids. The genome contains 5331 coding sequences among which 2139 (40.1%) are functionally annotated. Biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) of secondary metabolites exhibiting antimicrobial properties (ohmyungsamycin, pellasoren, naringenin, and ansamycin) were identified in the genome. The most efficient period of SCPM-O-B-9993 strain cultivation was 72 h: during this period, the culture went from the exponential to the stationary growth phase as well as exhibited excellent phytostimulatory properties and antiviral activity against the cucumber mosaic virus in tomatoes under laboratory conditions. The Streptomyces carpaticus SCPM-OB-9993 strain is a biotechnologically promising producer of secondary metabolites exhibiting antiviral and phytostimulatory properties.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Microorganisms for Plants)
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Exosomes in the Diagnosis of Neuropsychiatric Diseases: A Review
by
Song Wu, Xinmiao Shang, Meng Guo, Lei Su and Jun Wang
Biology 2024, 13(6), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060387 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Exosomes are 30–150 nm small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) which are highly stable and encapsulated by a phospholipid bilayer. Exosomes contain proteins, lipids, RNAs (mRNAs, microRNAs/miRNAs, long non-coding RNAs/lncRNAs), and DNA of their parent cell. In pathological conditions, the composition of exosomes is altered,
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Exosomes are 30–150 nm small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) which are highly stable and encapsulated by a phospholipid bilayer. Exosomes contain proteins, lipids, RNAs (mRNAs, microRNAs/miRNAs, long non-coding RNAs/lncRNAs), and DNA of their parent cell. In pathological conditions, the composition of exosomes is altered, making exosomes a potential source of biomarkers for disease diagnosis. Exosomes can cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which is an advantage for using exosomes in the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Neuropsychiatric diseases belong to the CNS diseases, and many potential diagnostic markers have been identified for neuropsychiatric diseases. Here, we review the potential diagnostic markers of exosomes in neuropsychiatric diseases and discuss the potential application of exosomal biomarkers in the early and accurate diagnosis of these diseases. Additionally, we outline the limitations and future directions of exosomes in the diagnosis of neuropsychiatric diseases.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
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Drug Repurposing: Exploring Potential Anti-Cancer Strategies by Targeting Cancer Signalling Pathways
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Natalia Haddad, Sara Magura Gamaethige, Nadine Wehida and Ahmed Elbediwy
Biology 2024, 13(6), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060386 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The repurposing of previously clinically approved drugs as an alternative therapeutic approach to treating disease has gained significant attention in recent years. A multitude of studies have demonstrated various and successful therapeutic interventions with these drugs in a wide range of neoplastic diseases,
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The repurposing of previously clinically approved drugs as an alternative therapeutic approach to treating disease has gained significant attention in recent years. A multitude of studies have demonstrated various and successful therapeutic interventions with these drugs in a wide range of neoplastic diseases, including multiple myeloma, leukaemia, glioblastoma, and colon cancer. Drug repurposing has been widely encouraged due to the known efficacy, safety, and convenience of already established drugs, allowing the bypass of the long and difficult road of lead optimization and drug development. Repurposing drugs in cancer therapy is an exciting prospect due to the ability of these drugs to successfully target cancer-associated genes, often dysregulated in oncogenic signalling pathways, amongst which are the classical cancer signalling pathways; WNT (wingless-related integration type) and Hippo signalling. These pathways play a fundamental role in controlling organ size, tissue homeostasis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, all hallmarks of cancer initiation and progression. Prolonged dysregulation of these pathways has been found to promote uncontrolled cellular growth and malignant transformation, contributing to carcinogenesis and ultimately leading to malignancy. However, the translation of cancer signalling pathways and potential targeted therapies in cancer treatment faces ongoing challenges due to the pleiotropic nature of cancer cells, contributing to resistance and an increased rate of incomplete remission in patients. This review provides analyses of a range of potential anti-cancer compounds in drug repurposing. It unravels the current understanding of the molecular rationale for repurposing these drugs and their potential for targeting key oncogenic signalling pathways.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer and Signalling: Targeting Cellular Pathways)
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A Bibliometric Analysis on Research Progress of Earthworms in Soil Ecosystems
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Jiayi Chen, Shufang Chen, Ziqiang Liu, Lizhu Wu, Huimin Xiang, Jiaen Zhang and Hui Wei
Biology 2024, 13(6), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060385 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The earthworm, as a soil engineer, plays highly important roles in the soil ecosystem for shaping soil structure, promoting soil fertility, regulating microbial community composition and activities and decomposing soil pollutants. However, the research progresses on this important soil fauna have rarely been
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The earthworm, as a soil engineer, plays highly important roles in the soil ecosystem for shaping soil structure, promoting soil fertility, regulating microbial community composition and activities and decomposing soil pollutants. However, the research progresses on this important soil fauna have rarely been reviewed so far. Therefore, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of the literature published during 1900–2022, which was collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS). The results showed that three periods (1900–1990, 1991–2005 and 2006–2022) could be identified in terms of the intensity of publications on the topic, and the number of publications kept increasing since 2006. The United States produced the highest publication record at the country scale, whereas Chinese Academy of Sciences was the most productive institution. Chinese institutions and authors played an active and prominent role during 2018–2022. Soil Biology & Biochemistry was the most popular journal for the topic-related research. In these publications, Professor Lavelle P was the most influential author. Based on a citation network of the top 50 cited papers, four hotspots were identified, i.e., the ecological effects of earthworms, the impact of agricultural activities on earthworms, earthworm ecotoxicology and earthworm invasion. Moreover, “impact”, “biodiversity”, “oxidative stress”, “diversity”, “response”, “Eisenia fetida” and “exposure” were the emerging and active topics in recent years. This study can help us to better understand the relevant subject categories, journals, countries, institutions, authors and articles and identify the research hotspots and emerging trends in the field of soil earthworm research.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ecology)
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Padina Minor Extract Confers Resistance against Candida Albicans Infection: Evaluation in a Zebrafish Model
by
Chang-Cheng Wu, De-Sing Ding, Yi-Hao Lo, Chieh-Yu Pan and Zhi-Hong Wen
Biology 2024, 13(6), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060384 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Padina minor is a seaweed rich in polysaccharides often used in food, feed, fertilizers, and antibacterial drugs. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of feeding zebrafish with Padina minor extract on preventing and treating C. albicans infections. This study evaluated
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Padina minor is a seaweed rich in polysaccharides often used in food, feed, fertilizers, and antibacterial drugs. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of feeding zebrafish with Padina minor extract on preventing and treating C. albicans infections. This study evaluated the growth, survival, and disease resistance effects of P. minor extract on zebrafish. The fish were divided into four groups: three groups treated with 1%, 5%, or 10% P. minor extract and one untreated group (c, control). Subsequently, we analyzed how the extract affected the immune function of zebrafish infected with C. albicans. Based on the lethal concentration (LC50) calculated in the first stage, 1% was used as the effective therapeutic concentration. The results showed that the growth rate of the 1% feed group was the best, and no significant difference in survival rates between the four groups was observed. Feeding with 1% P. minor extract downregulated the expression of key inflammatory genes like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-10, effectively preventing and treating C. albicans infections in zebrafish. This study is a preliminary evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of P. minor extracts against C. albicans.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Parasitic and Microbial Infection and Immunity)
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Fire-Induced Changes in Soil Properties and Bacterial Communities in Rotational Shifting Cultivation Fields in Northern Thailand
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Noppol Arunrat, Chakriya Sansupa, Sukanya Sereenonchai, Ryusuke Hatano and Rattan Lal
Biology 2024, 13(6), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060383 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Fire is a common practice in rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), but little is known about the dynamics of bacterial populations and the impact of fire disturbance in northern Thailand. To fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the dynamics of soil
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Fire is a common practice in rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), but little is known about the dynamics of bacterial populations and the impact of fire disturbance in northern Thailand. To fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the dynamics of soil bacterial communities and examine how the soil’s physicochemical properties influence the bacterial communities in RSC fields over a period of one year following a fire. Surface soil samples (0–2 cm depth) were collected from sites with 6 (RSC-6Y) and 12 (RSC-12Y) years of fallow in Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand at six different time points: before burning, 5 min after burning (summer), 3 months after burning (rainy season), 6 months after burning (rainy season), 9 months after burning (winter), and 12 months after burning (summer). The results revealed a reduction in the soil bacterial communities’ diversity and an increase in soil nutrient levels immediately after the fire. The fire significantly influenced the abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Planctomycetes, but not that of Actinobacteria. At the genus level, Bacillus, Conexibacter, and Chthoniobacter showed increased abundance following the fire. During the rainy season, a recovery in the abundance of the soil bacterial communities was observed, although soil nutrient availability declined. Soil physicochemical properties such as pH, organic matter, organic carbon, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity, nitrate-nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, total nitrogen, bulk density, sand, and silt contents significantly influenced the composition of bacterial communities. Alpha diversity indices indicated a decrease in diversity immediately after burning, followed by an increase from the early rainy season until the summer season, indicating that seasonal variation affected the composition of the soil bacterial communities. After one year of burning, an increase in bacterial richness was observed, while the diversity of the bacterial communities reverted to pre-burning levels.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeochemical Element Cycling in Plant–Soil Systems: Implications for Ecosystem Dynamics and Services)
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Open AccessArticle
Modulator Effect of AT1 Receptor Knockdown on THP-1 Macrophage Proinflammatory Activity
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Lourdes Nallely Acevedo-Villavicencio, Carlos Enrique López-Luna, Juan Castillo-Cruz, Rocío Alejandra Gutiérrez-Rojas, Iris Selene Paredes-González, Santiago Villafaña, Fengyang Huang, Cruz Vargas-De-León, Rodrigo Romero-Nava and Karla Aidee Aguayo-Cerón
Biology 2024, 13(6), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060382 - 26 May 2024
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Currently, it is known that angiotensin II (AngII) induces inflammation, and an AT1R blockade has anti-inflammatory effects. The use of an AT1 receptor antagonist promotes the inhibition of the secretion of multiple proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages, as well as a
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Currently, it is known that angiotensin II (AngII) induces inflammation, and an AT1R blockade has anti-inflammatory effects. The use of an AT1 receptor antagonist promotes the inhibition of the secretion of multiple proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages, as well as a decrease in the concentration of reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of AT1 receptor gene silencing on the modulation of cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) in THP-1 macrophages and the relation to the gene expression of NF-κB. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the gene expression of PPAR-γ in THP-1 macrophages using PMA (60 ng/mL). For the silencing, cells were incubated with the siRNA for 72 h and telmisartan (10 µM) was added to the medium for 24 h. After that, cells were incubated during 1 and 24 h, respectively, with Ang II (1 µM). The gene expression levels of AT1R, NF-κB, and cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) were measured by RT-qPCR. Results: We observed that silencing of the AT1 receptor causes a decrease in the expression of mRNA of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α), NF-κB, and PPAR-γ. Conclusions: We conclude that AT1R gene silencing is an alternative to modulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β via NF-κB in macrophages and having high blood pressure decrease.
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Open AccessArticle
The Structure of Digestive Tract Coordinating Digestion and Respiration in an Air-Breathing Weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
by
Zixin Qi, Hongbo Ma, Li Ma and Xuefen Yang
Biology 2024, 13(6), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060381 - 25 May 2024
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To clarify how the digestive tract of the weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, serves a dual function of digestion and respiration simultaneously, the histological structures of its digestive tract, the passage of digesta and air passing through its intestine and the rate of intestinal
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To clarify how the digestive tract of the weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, serves a dual function of digestion and respiration simultaneously, the histological structures of its digestive tract, the passage of digesta and air passing through its intestine and the rate of intestinal evacuation have been studied. The results indicate that the digestive tract is divided into five functional regions, i.e., esophagus, anterior intestine, middle intestine, posterior intestine and rectum. The diverse intestinal structures have the specialized function of coordinating digestion and respiration. An X-ray barium meal examination showed in the normal breathing state, the contents of the intestine are diffusely semifluid, and air is distributed as bubbles in the dorsal intestine 2 h after feeding. After 5 h, the contents accumulated in the mid and posterior intestine, and gas flowed above the contents as bundles. After 8 h, the intestinal food was basically evacuated. In the intestinal air-breathing restricted group, the contents of the intestine remained diffuse, and a large number of digesta entered and remained in the rectum after 5 h. After the inhibition was relieved, the contents of the rectum were rapidly discharged. Measurement of the intestinal evacuation rate in the intestine showed that the evacuation of the intestinal contents lagged behind that of the normal group in the air-breathing restricted group. Compared to the normal state and inhibited GAB (gastrointestinal air breathing), we could deduce that GAB could promote the movement of the intestine.
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Open AccessArticle
Genomic Analysis of Brassinosteroid Biosynthesis Gene Family Reveals Its Roles in Cotton Development across Gossypium Species
by
Shiyan Cui, Xin Zhou, Guanghui Xiao and Hongjie Feng
Biology 2024, 13(6), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060380 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Cotton is a globally significant economic crop. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are crucial to cotton development. This study systematically analyzed the BR synthase gene family in four cotton species and identified 60 BR genes: 20 in Gossypium hirsutum (GhBRs), 20 in G. barbadense
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Cotton is a globally significant economic crop. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are crucial to cotton development. This study systematically analyzed the BR synthase gene family in four cotton species and identified 60 BR genes: 20 in Gossypium hirsutum (GhBRs), 20 in G. barbadense (GbBRs), 10 in G. arboreum (GaBRs), and 10 in G. raimondii (GrBRs). The analysis was extended to chromosomal localization, evolutionary relationships, domain features, and cis-regulatory elements in the promoter regions of BR synthase genes. The results showed that the BR synthase genes were evenly distributed across different subgenomes and chromosomes. Bioinformatics analyses revealed high conservation of amino acid sequences, secondary structures, and conserved domains among the subfamily members, which is closely linked to their pivotal roles in the BR biosynthesis pathway. Cis-element distribution analysis of the BR synthase genes further underscored the complexity of BR gene expression regulation, which is influenced by multiple factors, including plant hormones, abiotic stress, and transcription factors. Expression profiling of GhBRs genes in various cotton tissues and developmental stages highlighted the key roles of GhROT3-1 and GhDET2-1 in fiber elongation and initiation, respectively. Protein–protein interactions and transcription factor analyses further elucidated the regulatory mechanisms of GhROT3-1 and GhDET2-1 in cotton growth and development. This study lays a theoretical foundation for understanding the role of the BR signaling pathway in cotton development, facilitating molecular breeding.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
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Open AccessReview
Disrupted Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Handling: A Harβinger of β-Cell Failure
by
Jordyn R. Dobson and David A. Jacobson
Biology 2024, 13(6), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060379 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The β-cell workload increases in the setting of insulin resistance and reduced β-cell mass, which occurs in type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. The prolonged elevation of insulin production and secretion during the pathogenesis of diabetes results in β-cell ER stress. The
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The β-cell workload increases in the setting of insulin resistance and reduced β-cell mass, which occurs in type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. The prolonged elevation of insulin production and secretion during the pathogenesis of diabetes results in β-cell ER stress. The depletion of β-cell Ca2+ER during ER stress activates the unfolded protein response, leading to β-cell dysfunction. Ca2+ER is involved in many pathways that are critical to β-cell function, such as protein processing, tuning organelle and cytosolic Ca2+ handling, and modulating lipid homeostasis. Mutations that promote β-cell ER stress and deplete Ca2+ER stores are associated with or cause diabetes (e.g., mutations in ryanodine receptors and insulin). Thus, improving β-cell Ca2+ER handling and reducing ER stress under diabetogenic conditions could preserve β-cell function and delay or prevent the onset of diabetes. This review focuses on how mechanisms that control β-cell Ca2+ER are perturbed during the pathogenesis of diabetes and contribute to β-cell failure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue β-Cells at the Center of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes)
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Modulation of Glucose Consumption and Uptake in HepG2 Cells by Aqueous Extracts from the Coelomic Fluid of the Edible Holothuria tubulosa Sea Cucumber
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Giulia Abruscato, Roberta Tarantino, Manuela Mauro, Roberto Chiarelli, Aiti Vizzini, Vincenzo Arizza, Mirella Vazzana and Claudio Luparello
Biology 2024, 13(6), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060378 - 25 May 2024
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The cell-free aqueous extract from the coelomic fluid of Holothuria tubulosa was prepared and examined for its glucose-lowering effect on HepG2 cells in vitro. In particular, employing a combination of cytochemical, flow cytometric, PCR, and protein blot techniques, we evaluated its role on
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The cell-free aqueous extract from the coelomic fluid of Holothuria tubulosa was prepared and examined for its glucose-lowering effect on HepG2 cells in vitro. In particular, employing a combination of cytochemical, flow cytometric, PCR, and protein blot techniques, we evaluated its role on glucose internalization and storage and on the upregulation and surface translocation of the two glucose transporters GLUT-2 and -4. The changes in expression, synthesis, and/or activation of the GLUT2-related transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 alpha (HNF1α) and the GLUT-4-translocation regulatory factors insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and AKT were also studied. Our results showed the improved glucose response by HepG2 cells, leading to an evident increase in glucose consumption/uptake and glycogen storage upon exposure. Moreover, the extract induced molecular reprogramming involving the upregulation of (i) IRS1 gene expression, (ii) the transcription and translation levels of HNF1α, AKT, and GLUT-4, (iii) the phosphorylation level of AKT, (iv) the synthesis of GLUT-2 protein, and (v) the translocation of GLUT-2 and -4 transporters onto the plasma membrane. Cumulatively, our results suggest that the coelomic fluid extract from H. tubulosa can be taken into consideration for the development of novel treatment agents against diabetes mellitus.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Expression of Cation-Chloride Cotransporter (CCC) Genes in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) across the Menstrual Cycle—A Preliminary Study
by
Soojeong Cho, Fatimata Soumare, Sunni L. Mumford, Paola C. Rosas, Zarema Abrieva, John M. Davis and Ajna Hamidovic
Biology 2024, 13(6), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060377 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation–chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression
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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation–chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression across the menstrual cycle is altered in PMDD. As there are limitations in accessing the human CNS to study CCC-encoding genes, we utilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as an alternative model. We first sought to replicate previous reports characterizing CCC gene expression patterns in PBMCs of reproductive age women. We subsequently investigated potential distinct CCC mRNA expression patterns in women with PMDD. We collected blood samples across 8 menstrual cycle visits for PBMC separation/RNA extraction to study mRNA expression of four KCCs (KCC1, KCC2, KCC3, KCC4) and two NKCCs (NKCC1, NKCC2) cotransporters. We mostly replicated the earlier gene expression pattern findings, and found that the expression levels of KCC1 were significantly downregulated during the mid-follicular and periovulatory subphases of the menstrual cycle in women with PMDD. The present study shows that PBMCs is a valid model for studying GABAergic mechanisms underlying PMDD.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Bilberry Extract on Neuronal Cell Toxicity
by
Svenja König, Tamara Bakuradze, Sandy Jesser, Harshitha Ashoka Sreeja, Max J. Carlsson, Jörg Fahrer, Stefan Kins and Elke Richling
Biology 2024, 13(6), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060376 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Increased intake of dietary antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which are enriched in colourful fruits, is a promising alternative to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Since Amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key components contributing to AD
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Increased intake of dietary antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which are enriched in colourful fruits, is a promising alternative to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Since Amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key components contributing to AD pathology, probably by reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction, this study investigated the preventive effect of anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract (BE) and its anthocyanin fraction (ACN) on ROS generation and cell toxicity. The results showed a significant and concentration-dependent decrease in neuroblastoma cell (SH-SY5Y) viability by BE or ACN, whereas no cell toxicity was observed in HeLa cells. Incubation with BE and ACN for 24 h diminished the generation of induced ROS levels in SH-SY5Y and HeLa cells. In addition, low concentrations of BE (1–5 µg/mL) showed protective effects against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, our results suggest antioxidant and protective effects of BE and ACN, which could potentially be used to delay the course of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. Further studies are needed to clarify the high potential of anthocyanins and their in vivo metabolites on neuronal function.
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(This article belongs to the Section Neuroscience)
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Open AccessReview
Basement Membranes, Brittlestar Tendons, and Their Mechanical Adaptability
by
Iain C. Wilkie
Biology 2024, 13(6), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060375 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Basement membranes (BMs) are thin layers of extracellular matrix that separate epithelia, endothelia, muscle cells, and nerve cells from adjacent interstitial connective tissue. BMs are ubiquitous in almost all multicellular animals, and their composition is highly conserved across the Metazoa. There is increasing
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Basement membranes (BMs) are thin layers of extracellular matrix that separate epithelia, endothelia, muscle cells, and nerve cells from adjacent interstitial connective tissue. BMs are ubiquitous in almost all multicellular animals, and their composition is highly conserved across the Metazoa. There is increasing interest in the mechanical functioning of BMs, including the involvement of altered BM stiffness in development and pathology, particularly cancer metastasis, which can be facilitated by BM destabilization. Such BM weakening has been assumed to occur primarily through enzymatic degradation by matrix metalloproteinases. However, emerging evidence indicates that non-enzymatic mechanisms may also contribute. In brittlestars (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea), the tendons linking the musculature to the endoskeleton consist of extensions of muscle cell BMs. During the process of brittlestar autotomy, in which arms are detached for the purpose of self-defense, muscles break away from the endoskeleton as a consequence of the rapid destabilization and rupture of their BM-derived tendons. This contribution provides a broad overview of current knowledge of the structural organization and biomechanics of non-echinoderm BMs, compares this with the equivalent information on brittlestar tendons, and discusses the possible relationship between the weakening phenomena exhibited by BMs and brittlestar tendons, and the potential translational value of the latter as a model system of BM destabilization.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Echinoderm Research)
Open AccessReview
Communications between Neutrophil–Endothelial Interaction in Immune Defense against Bacterial Infection
by
Zhigang Sun, Ruoyi Lv, Yanxin Zhao, Ziwen Cai, Xiaohui Si, Qian Zhang and Xiaoye Liu
Biology 2024, 13(6), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060374 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The endothelial barrier plays a critical role in immune defense against bacterial infection. Efficient interactions between neutrophils and endothelial cells facilitate the activation of both cell types. However, neutrophil activation can have dual effects, promoting bacterial clearance on one hand while triggering inflammation
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The endothelial barrier plays a critical role in immune defense against bacterial infection. Efficient interactions between neutrophils and endothelial cells facilitate the activation of both cell types. However, neutrophil activation can have dual effects, promoting bacterial clearance on one hand while triggering inflammation on the other. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the cellular defense progression when neutrophils encounter bacteria, focusing specifically on neutrophil–endothelial interactions and endothelial activation or dysfunction. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory pathways, potential therapeutic targets for inflammation caused by endothelial dysfunction may be identified. Overall, our comprehensive understanding of neutrophil–endothelial interactions in modulating innate immunity provides deeper insights into therapeutic strategies for infectious diseases and further promotes the development of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Infection Biology)
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