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Search Results (375)

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Keywords = L-amino acid transporter

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16 pages, 2328 KB  
Article
Deleting Mig1 Combined with Introducing MetK1 Improved S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine Production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
by Hailong Chen, Wanlu Xu, Fenbian Sun, Xinxing Gao, Wangshui Cai, Long Xu, Haiyun Rui and Guanxing Zhu
Fermentation 2026, 12(7), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12070332 - 13 Jul 2026
Viewed by 328
Abstract
Saccharomyces cerevisiae, widely used in industrial fermentation, still suffers from inherent problems in the efficient utilization of carbon sources. Here, a strategy for alleviating glucose effect and improving S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) production by deleting Mig1 combined with introducing MetK1 from Leishmania infantum was [...] Read more.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae, widely used in industrial fermentation, still suffers from inherent problems in the efficient utilization of carbon sources. Here, a strategy for alleviating glucose effect and improving S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) production by deleting Mig1 combined with introducing MetK1 from Leishmania infantum was applied in S. cerevisiae. The deletion of Mig1 improved glucose utilization by increasing the expression levels of genes related to glucose transport and glycolysis, thereby increasing the levels of glycolytic intermediates and increasing both the transcriptional levels of ACS1 and ALD6 and the activity of ADH2, which promotes the conversion of ethanol into acetyl-CoA. The deletion of Mig1 also upregulated the transcripts of genes involved in the metabolism of precursor amino acids of SAM and ultimately responsible for the improvement in SAM synthesis. Finally, MetK1 was introduced into yeast to redirect carbon flux toward SAM biosynthesis. As expected, the SAM production of the mutant YMig1ΔPMetK1 reached 8.91 g/L in a 10 L fermenter, which was 72.3% higher than that of the parent strain S. cerevisiae CGMCC 2842 (5.17 g/L) reported in our previous studies. This study revealed that the strategy of alleviating glucose effect and redirecting carbon flux to nonethanol products by Mig1 deletion combined with heterologous MetK1 introduction possesses great potential for improving SAM synthesis in yeast cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Yeast)
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13 pages, 1467 KB  
Article
Drinking Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water Promotes Growth Performance, Improves Digestion, and Modulates Antioxidant Status in Weaned Piglets
by Zhifang Shi, Zhengyang Shi, Zike Xu, Ruiting Wei, Shuilin Gao, Xiaoxuan Liang, Yifang Zhang, Zhangying Ye and Lei Xi
Animals 2026, 16(14), 2124; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16142124 - 8 Jul 2026
Viewed by 214
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of adding slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) to drinking water (0.3 and 0.6 mg/L) for 15 consecutive days on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, amino acid transporter gene expression, antioxidant activity, and immune function in weaned piglets. [...] Read more.
This study assessed the effects of adding slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) to drinking water (0.3 and 0.6 mg/L) for 15 consecutive days on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, amino acid transporter gene expression, antioxidant activity, and immune function in weaned piglets. Using a randomized complete block design with pen as the experimental unit, 144 healthy weaned piglets were randomly assigned to three groups with four replicate pens per group according to weight and sex. During the entire experimental period, the average daily gain and average daily feed intake of the SAEW groups were significantly higher than those of the control (CON) group (p < 0.05). As compared to the CON group, the levels of α-amylase, β-amylase, lipase, and proteases in the duodenum increased in both SAEW groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 0.6 mg/L SAEW positively affected the mRNA levels of CAT1, PepT1, CAT2, EAAC1, rBAT, b0,+ AT, and 4F2hc in the jejunum and duodenum (p < 0.05). Regarding immune function, SAEW significantly decreased intestinal secretory immunoglobulin A levels in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05), while no significant changes were observed in serum immunoglobulin concentrations between the SAEW groups and the CON group. In terms of antioxidant status, SAEW significantly increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, but also increased malondialdehyde content in a dose-dependent manner. Despite the stronger promotion of intestinal amino acid transporters under 0.6 mg/L SAEW, this advantage failed to generate extra growth benefits alongside elevated oxidative damage. In conclusion, both tested SAEW concentrations exert positive effects on piglet growth and digestion; comprehensively balancing production benefits and redox safety, 0.3 mg/L SAEW is the optimal drinking water dosage for weaned piglets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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19 pages, 4849 KB  
Article
Juvenile Hormone Analogues Reduce the Expression of a Fatty Acid-Binding Protein Involved in Lipid Accumulation in the Migratory Locust Locusta migratoria
by Tian Miao, Zige Wang, Min Peng, Jinchao Chen, Dengbo Li and Yuemin Ma
Insects 2026, 17(7), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17070664 - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 346
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) analog insecticides are widely used in pest management because of their ability to disrupt insect growth and metamorphosis; however, the molecular mechanisms linking endocrine disruption to metabolic dysregulation remain incompletely understood. In addition to their established roles in diapause and [...] Read more.
Juvenile hormone (JH) analog insecticides are widely used in pest management because of their ability to disrupt insect growth and metamorphosis; however, the molecular mechanisms linking endocrine disruption to metabolic dysregulation remain incompletely understood. In addition to their established roles in diapause and developmental regulation, JH signaling pathways have also been implicated in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. In the present study, we investigated the effects of two JH analogs, pyriproxyfen and hydroprene, on the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, with particular emphasis on lipid metabolic regulation and the function of midgut-enriched fatty acid-binding protein gene (Mg-FABP). Bioassays were performed to evaluate insecticidal activity, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to identify differentially expressed genes associated with endocrine signaling and lipid metabolism. Functional characterization of Mg-FABP was further performed using RNA interference (RNAi) and Oil Red O staining assays. In addition, the tertiary structure of LmMg-FABP was predicted using AlphaFold 3, and molecular docking analyses were carried out to investigate its interactions with fatty acid ligands. Both pyriproxyfen and hydroprene caused approximately 70% mortality in locust nymphs and induced significant transcriptional changes in pathways related to hormone signaling and lipid metabolism. Transcriptomic analysis revealed pronounced downregulation of Mg-FABP following JH analog exposure. RNAi-mediated silencing of Mg-FABP significantly reduced lipid droplet accumulation in the fat body, indicating that Mg-FABP plays an essential role in lipid transport and metabolic homeostasis in L. migratoria. Structural analyses further demonstrated that LmMg-FABP possesses a conserved tertiary structure highly similar to FABP homologs from other insect species. Molecular docking identified key amino acid residues involved in fatty acid binding and suggested that hydrophobic interactions are critical for ligand stabilization within the binding cavity. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that pyriproxyfen and hydroprene disrupt insect development not only through endocrine imbalance but also through perturbation of Mg-FABP-associated lipid metabolic pathways. This study provides new mechanistic insight into the coordinated interaction between hormonal signaling and lipid metabolism during JH analog exposure and identifies FABP-mediated lipid transport as a potential molecular target for the development of more selective insect growth regulators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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23 pages, 585 KB  
Article
Dietary L-Arginine and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Improve Growth Performance, Oxidative Status, Immunity, and Intestinal Integrity Indicators in Heat-Stressed Weaned Rabbits
by Tahani M. I. Al-Hazani, Amirah S. Alahmari, Manal A. Babaker, Ahmed M. Elbaz, Hagar E. Mohammed, Hany A. Thabet, Eman Kamel M. Khalfallah, Ahmed Ateya, Rowa K. Zarah, Khairiah Mubarak Alwutayd and Assem Abdou
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(6), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13060598 - 19 Jun 2026
Viewed by 468
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of adding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnNP), L-arginine (L-Arg), or a combination of both to the diets of growing rabbits to mitigate the physiological and productive consequences of heat stress. Two hundred and eighty 35-day-old New Zealand White rabbits [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effects of adding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnNP), L-arginine (L-Arg), or a combination of both to the diets of growing rabbits to mitigate the physiological and productive consequences of heat stress. Two hundred and eighty 35-day-old New Zealand White rabbits were randomly assigned to four experimental treatments, with 70 rabbits per treatment and seven replicates (10 rabbits/replicate). The control group (Ctr) received the base diet without additives, while the diets of the other groups were fortified with arginine (L-Arg; 3 g/kg), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnNP; 40 mg/kg), or a combination of both (Arg-Zn). The results showed that the combined Arg-Zn significantly improved weight gain rate, feed conversion rate, carcass weight, and nutrient digestibility compared to the control group (p < 0.05). At the physiological level, we observed increased serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and triiodothyronine (T3), along with decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST, p < 0.05) in Arg-Zn-fed rabbits. However, adding the Arg-Zn mixture contributed to a reduction in pathogenic bacteria counts and increased the volatile fatty acid (VFA) levels. At the molecular level, the gene expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) decreased; however, the gene expression of claudins-1 (CLDN-1), cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1), mucin-2 (MUC-2), sodium-glucose co-transporter-1 (SGLT-1), and interferon gamma (IFNγ) increased (p < 0.05) in Arg-Zn-fed rabbits. These results suggest that dietary supplementation with ZnNP and L-Arg may serve as an effective nutritional strategy for improving growth performance, antioxidant status, immune function, and intestinal integrity in rabbits exposed to high ambient temperatures. Full article
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25 pages, 4998 KB  
Article
Maternal Rumen-Protected Leucine Supplementation Enhances Placental Nutrient Transport Capacity and Increases Birth Weight in Hu Sheep
by Qin Gao, Chong Yuan, Shanglai Li, Hua Yang, Zongyou Wei and Yanli Zhang
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13060592 - 18 Jun 2026
Viewed by 388
Abstract
Leucine, an essential branched-chain amino acid, serves not only as a substrate for protein synthesis but also as a key regulator of placental function and fetal development. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with RP-Leu during late gestation on placental development [...] Read more.
Leucine, an essential branched-chain amino acid, serves not only as a substrate for protein synthesis but also as a key regulator of placental function and fetal development. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with RP-Leu during late gestation on placental development and offspring performance in Hu sheep. Sixty twin-pregnant ewes at day 80 of pregnancy were randomly assigned to either a control group (fed a basal diet) or an RP-Leu group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 19 g/day RP-Leu). The feeding trial lasted for 60 d. The ewes were slaughtered at day 140 of gestation. Maternal slaughter traits and fetal organ weights were recorded. Blood and milk samples were collected for milk composition analysis and targeted metabolomic profiling. Leucine supplementation significantly increased the percentage of milk fat content, total solid content, and the birth weight of lambs (p < 0.05). Improvements in placental morphology and antioxidant capacity were observed, including a significant increase in cotyledon density and a significant enhancement of catalase (CAT) activity (p < 0.05). Gene expression analysis indicated that the NOS3, SLC38A1 and FABP4 genes in the placental cotyledons (p < 0.05), and the VEGFA, NOS3, SLC27A1 and FABP4 genes were significantly upregulated in the maternal caruncles (p < 0.05). Plasma metabolomic profiling revealed increased L-glutamic acid levels and alterations in several amino acids, with pathway enrichment indicating involvement in amino acid metabolism and membrane transport processes. Transcriptomic analysis identified 739 differentially expressed genes, which were mainly enriched in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, ECM–receptor interaction pathway, and cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction pathway. Collectively, these findings suggest that RP-Leu supplementation during late gestation may enhance offspring growth by modulating amino acid metabolism, promoting placental development, and improving placental nutrient transport capacity, thereby supporting fetal growth and development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Veterinary Theriogenology: Reproduction and Fertility)
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17 pages, 12897 KB  
Article
Metabolomic Analysis of the Effects of Cysteamine Zinc on the Composition and Amino Acid Profile of Mare’s Milk
by Fan Yang, Yumei Ma, Xiaobin Li, Xinkui Yao, Kailun Yang and Caidie Wang
Life 2026, 16(6), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16060983 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 321
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effects of cysteamine zinc supplementation on milk production, composition, amino acid profile, and metabolites in mares. Building on prior experimental findings, a dose of 7 mg/kg body weight of CS-Zn was selected for the experimental group, which [...] Read more.
This study aims to investigate the effects of cysteamine zinc supplementation on milk production, composition, amino acid profile, and metabolites in mares. Building on prior experimental findings, a dose of 7 mg/kg body weight of CS-Zn was selected for the experimental group, which was compared with a control group. Milk samples were collected at various time points, and milk yield was recorded each time. Routine analysis of milk components, as well as the determination of milk metabolites and amino acids, were performed. The results indicated that, compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited increases in milk yield and the content of milk fat, lactose, and non-fat solids (p < 0.05), with an extremely significant increase in milk protein (p < 0.01). Conversely, the levels of L-glutamine and L-proline in milk were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis revealed that differentially expressed metabolites were enriched in pathways such as ABC transporters, D-aminoadipate metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and protein digestion and absorption. Notably, milk metabolites including cAMp, biotin, and taurine showed a tendency to be upregulated, while oxoglutaric acid, methionine, and diacetyloxyxanthone were downregulated. Based on evidence from the literature other species, it is speculated that CS-Zn supplementation may be associated with alterations in endocrine and amino acid metabolism pathways, potentially influencing lactation performance in mares. However, because no hormones were directly measured in this study, such a mechanism remains speculative and requires direct experimental validation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Health and Nutritional Strategies in Animals)
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29 pages, 8382 KB  
Article
Coumarin Reduces Aluminum-Induced Inhibition of Growth and Photosynthesis in Citrus grandis by Reducing Tissue Al Concentration and Maintaining Nutrient and Redox Homeostasis
by Hui Yang, Rong-Rong Xie, Tian-Tian Xia, Liang-Yuan Tong, Ti Wu, Xin Ye, Zeng-Rong Huang, Lin-Tong Yang and Li-Song Chen
Plants 2026, 15(11), 1694; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15111694 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 532
Abstract
No data to date are available on the underlying mechanisms by which coumarin (COU) alleviates plant aluminum (Al) toxicity. Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck seedlings were submitted to 0 (Al0) or 1.2 (Al1.2 or Al3+ toxicity) mM AlCl3·6H2O and [...] Read more.
No data to date are available on the underlying mechanisms by which coumarin (COU) alleviates plant aluminum (Al) toxicity. Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck seedlings were submitted to 0 (Al0) or 1.2 (Al1.2 or Al3+ toxicity) mM AlCl3·6H2O and 0 (COU0) or 50 (COU50) μM COU for 18 weeks. The results demonstrated that COU50 attenuated Al1.2-induced decreases of seedling growth, chlorophyll (Chl) level, and CO2 assimilation (ACO2) and impairment of the photosynthetic electron transport chain (PETC). Further analysis suggested that reduced tissue Al concentration and enhanced capability to maintain nutrient and redox homeostasis played a role in COU-mediated amelioration of seedling growth inhibition, leaf Chl and ACO2 decline, and PETC impairment. Notably, seedlings treated with COU0 showed some adaptive responses to Al1.2. For example, Al1.2 decreased the biosynthesis and accumulation of proteins and amino acids to meet the increased need for energy; increased the diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and phenolic compound accumulation to meet the elevated demand for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Al detoxification; and increased the accumulation of soluble sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) to meet the augmented demand for ROS scavenging and energy. To conclude, the research revealed some mechanisms for COU-mediated amelioration of plant Al3+ toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Science and Ornamental Plants)
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21 pages, 3097 KB  
Article
Integrative Metabolomic and Echocardiographic Profiling Reveals Metabolic–Cardiac Structural Coupling in Yili Horses During Incremental Exercise
by Xiaokang Chang, Jiangfei Peng, Zihan Zhang, Manjun Zhai, Hongzhong Chu, Runchen Yao, Penghui Luo, Xinkui Yao, Wanlu Ren and Yaqi Zeng
Animals 2026, 16(11), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111672 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 424
Abstract
This study integrated echocardiography with widely targeted metabolomics to decipher how plasma metabolic dynamics couple with cardiac geometry in Yili horses during incremental treadmill exercise. Nine speed-type horses underwent a graded exercise test (6% incline; 0 to 9 m/s). Jugular venous blood samples [...] Read more.
This study integrated echocardiography with widely targeted metabolomics to decipher how plasma metabolic dynamics couple with cardiac geometry in Yili horses during incremental treadmill exercise. Nine speed-type horses underwent a graded exercise test (6% incline; 0 to 9 m/s). Jugular venous blood samples collected at rest (0 m/s) and at 3, 5, 7, and 9 m/s were profiled by LC-MS, and Pearson correlation analysis was applied to relate differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) to twenty echocardiographic structural indices. A core set of 314 shared DEMs (124 upregulated, 190 downregulated) was identified across all exercise comparisons, spanning amino acids, organic acids, and fatty acyls. These metabolites were mapped to ABC transporter, thermogenesis, aldosterone-regulated sodium reabsorption, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and one-carbon folate metabolism pathways. At rest (0 m/s), right ventricular end-diastolic dimension correlated positively with arginyl-isoleucine (p < 0.001), whereas left ventricular free wall thickness (diastolic and systolic) correlated positively with undecanedioic acid (p < 0.001) and proline-hydroxyproline (p < 0.01). At peak exercise (9 m/s), left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index correlated positively with succinic acid (p < 0.05) and methylmalonic acid (p < 0.05), while left ventricular minor axis correlated with carnitine C14:2 and carnitine C12:1 (p < 0.05). Left ventricular end-systolic dimension and left atrial end-diastolic dimension correlated negatively with cysteine-glutathione disulfide and N2-(1-carboxyethyl)-L-arginine, respectively. These findings illuminate a robust metabolic–cardiac structure axis: amino acid metabolites support collagen matrix turnover and redox homeostasis, organic acids sustain mitochondrial energy flux and antioxidant defense, and fatty acyls fuel continuous contractile activity via enhanced fatty acid oxidation. This metabolome-informed framework furnishes a mechanistic basis for precision training and performance phenotyping in equine athletes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Equids)
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28 pages, 20901 KB  
Article
Oxford Nanopore Technologies Sequencing and Targeted Amino Acid Metabolomics Reveal Spatially Segregated Microbial Hijacking and Metabolic Collapse During Trichoderma Infection of Golden Ear Mushroom
by Yijing Xu, Yu Huang, Lei Ye, Jiang Yu, Zhengzhu Huang, Xuezhen Yang, Qing Tian, Bo Zhang, Yuntao Liu and Xiaolin Li
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111912 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 336
Abstract
This study combines Oxford Nanopore (ONT) third-generation sequencing with targeted amino acid metabolomics to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the structural and metabolic responses of the microbial community in Golden Ear Mushroom (Naematelia sinensis) during Trichoderma infection. By comparing healthy tissue (MOCK), [...] Read more.
This study combines Oxford Nanopore (ONT) third-generation sequencing with targeted amino acid metabolomics to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the structural and metabolic responses of the microbial community in Golden Ear Mushroom (Naematelia sinensis) during Trichoderma infection. By comparing healthy tissue (MOCK), adjacent healthy areas (HAF) and the core lesion area (DiR), the results indicate that pathogen infection significantly reduces bacterial community diversity, with a progressive decline observed across these regions. In the DiR region, the fungal community underwent significant restructuring, with the abundance of the Trichoderma genus (T. lixii and T. afroharzianum) rising to over 45%, whilst that of host symbiotic fungi (Stereum and Tremella) decreased by 50–60%. Metabolomic analysis indicated that levels of various amino acids and antioxidant-related metabolites were significantly reduced in the host tissue of the DiR region, suggesting that amino acid metabolism was inhibited. Concurrently, changes were observed in certain metabolites associated with nitrogen metabolism (e.g., L-glutamine). KEGG analysis further revealed that amino acid biosynthesis and D-amino acid metabolic pathways were inhibited, whilst ABC transporters and arginine/proline metabolic pathways were activated. All metabolic changes originated from the host fungal tissue itself, rather than from commensal microorganisms. In summary, Trichoderma may promote the infection process by disrupting the host microbial community and metabolic networks, providing a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanisms of fungal diseases and their control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)
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25 pages, 11834 KB  
Article
Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM)-Based Targeted Kidney Metabolite Profiling of a Mouse Model of Hyperuricemia
by Hailong Li, Tingting Tang, Qingli Zhang, Tingting Song, Zichu Zhao, Lei Zhu, Qu Chen, Haili Zhang, Yan Zhang and Jingjing Kong
Metabolites 2026, 16(6), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16060362 - 27 May 2026
Viewed by 595
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic urate nephropathy (CUN), also referred to as gouty nephropathy, represents a severe renal disease primarily precipitated by long-term hyperuricemia (HUA) and gout. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis remain poorly understood. The present study was designed to explore these [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic urate nephropathy (CUN), also referred to as gouty nephropathy, represents a severe renal disease primarily precipitated by long-term hyperuricemia (HUA) and gout. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis remain poorly understood. The present study was designed to explore these mechanisms from the perspective of targeted metabolomics. Methods: The HUA mice constructed by urate oxidase (Uox) gene knockout (KO) and their corresponding wild-type controls were employed for the present study. Serum clinical biochemical parameters were determined, and renal histopathological changes were evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Masson’s trichrome staining. A targeted metabolomic strategy based on multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) was utilized to profile the renal metabolic landscape of Uox-KO mice, and potential metabolic biomarkers for CUN were identified via multivariate data analysis. Results: Clinical biochemical analysis revealed a significant elevation in serum uric acid, creatinine, and urea nitrogen levels in Uox-KO mice compared with control mice. Histopathological observations confirmed a typical CUN phenotype in Uox-KO mice, characterized by renal tubular vacuolar degeneration and dilatation, desquamation of tubular epithelial cells into the lumen, neutrophil infiltration, glomerular crowding, and renal interstitial fibrosis. Metabolomic analysis identified a total of 291 differentially regulated metabolites in Uox-KO mice relative to control animals. These perturbed metabolites were involved in multiple key biochemical pathways, including amino acid biosynthesis, ABC transporter signaling pathway, purine metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, protein digestion and absorption, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and serotonergic synaptic transmission. Notably, pathological parameters, including biochemical measurements and histological observations, were significantly correlated with key differential metabolites associated with CUN progression. Furthermore, eleven differential metabolites (pyroglutamic acid, fructose, riboflavin, dimethyl-L-arginine, glucaric acid, indoxyl sulfate, palmitoylethanolamide, trimethylamine N-oxide, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, spermidine, and hippuric acid) were identified as potential metabolic biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of CUN. Conclusions: These findings illustrate that targeted tissue metabolomic analysis constitutes a powerful tool for deciphering the molecular mechanisms of diseases, thus offering novel insights into the pathogenesis of CUN. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Animal Models of Human Disease 3.0)
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19 pages, 1590 KB  
Article
Superiority of Organic Calcium Fertilizers over Inorganic Counterparts in Enhancing Fruit Firmness and Quality of Blue Honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.)
by Yuxi Chen, Wei Li, Xuefei Ji, Haihui She, Pengke Yan, Yue Xiao, Hao Sun and Junwei Huo
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1856; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111856 - 24 May 2026
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Blue honeysuckle is an emerging small berry with high nutritional value; However, the soft texture of its fresh fruit leads to poor storability and transportability, severely limiting its economic returns. Calcium is a key element in maintaining the structural integrity of plant cell [...] Read more.
Blue honeysuckle is an emerging small berry with high nutritional value; However, the soft texture of its fresh fruit leads to poor storability and transportability, severely limiting its economic returns. Calcium is a key element in maintaining the structural integrity of plant cell walls and membranes, and plays a decisive role in fruit firmness and postharvest quality. To elucidate the effects of different calcium fertilizers on the fruit firmness, yield, and fruit quality of blue honeysuckle, a two-year field experiment was conducted using foliar application of 2 L of calcium fertilizer (CaC, CaA, CaL, SAC and AAC) at a concentration of 1 mg/L, with the control receiving an equal volume of water. The results showed that sugar alcohol calcium had the best effect on fruit firmness, fresh weight, yield, solid-acid ratio, total anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid, significantly improving yield and quality. Amino acid calcium was most effective in increasing fruit volume and fruit number per plant. Calcium acetate and calcium lactate showed balanced improvements across indicators. Calcium chloride significantly enhanced fruit shape index, total phenols, and total flavonoids. These findings elucidate the specific effects of various treatments on key fruit traits, providing a theoretical basis for precision cultivation and quality regulation, thereby facilitating the standardization and high-quality development of the industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Foods)
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28 pages, 3269 KB  
Article
Study on the Freezing Protection Effect of Melatonin on Lactobacillus plantarum FQR
by Yuting Feng, Yating Wu, Menglu Wang, Rui Wang, Leying Song and Lin Mei
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1836; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111836 - 22 May 2026
Viewed by 306
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effect and cryoprotective mechanism of melatonin (MT) on the physiological functions of Lactobacillus plantarum FQR during freezing and freeze-drying. Results indicated that the addition of 5 mg/mL MT as a cryoprotectant maximized the freeze-drying survival rate [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effect and cryoprotective mechanism of melatonin (MT) on the physiological functions of Lactobacillus plantarum FQR during freezing and freeze-drying. Results indicated that the addition of 5 mg/mL MT as a cryoprotectant maximized the freeze-drying survival rate to 32.04 ± 2.14%. MT effectively alleviated low-temperature and freeze-drying stress by reducing extracellular alkaline phosphatase activity, enhancing intracellular lactate dehydrogenase activity, and decreasing extracellular β-galactosidase activity without significant differences. Higher survival rates in defining medium further suggested that MT reduced damage to cell wall and membrane structures during lyophilisation, decreased membrane permeability, and preserved cellular physiological functions. In addition, MT supported cellular energy metabolism and protein synthesis, enhanced transmembrane potential to facilitate ATP transport, and helped maintain intracellular and extracellular pH balance. The prepared freeze-drying protectant containing 69.80 mg/mL exopolysaccharides (EPS) and 4.25 mg/mL MT showed better protective effects than the control group. MT also increased bound water content, lowered the freezing point of the solution, and inhibited ice crystal formation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that amino acid biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and ABC transport systems were the primary pathways affected by MT treatment. These findings demonstrate that MT improves freeze-drying tolerance by maintaining membrane integrity, regulating cellular metabolism, and enhancing oxidative stress resistance. Given its natural biosynthetic origin, generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status, and absence of residual solvents or allergenic proteins, MT can be safely considered for incorporation into food and nutraceutical products. This study underscores the practical relevance of MT as a functional component in compound cryoprotectants, providing a feasible strategy to enhance the viability, stability, and industrial applicability of Lactobacillus plantarum during freeze-drying and storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)
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27 pages, 2511 KB  
Article
Valorization of Goat Blood: Hydrolysate Production, Identification, Stability, and Bioavailability upon Gastrointestinal Digestion of Peptides with Dual ACE and DPP-IV Inhibitory Properties
by Phanthipha Laosam, Yong Yue, Pichitpon Luasiri, Saranya Suwanangul, Nattapol Pongsamai, Daranee Chokchaichamnankit, Jisnuson Svasti, Chantragan Srisomsap, Mahmoud Rouabhia and Papungkorn Sangsawad
Foods 2026, 15(10), 1783; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15101783 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 677
Abstract
Goat blood, a major slaughterhouse by-product, was systematically valorized into dual-function bioactive peptides through an optimized four-step process. Four blood preparations—whole blood (HB), anticoagulant-treated blood (HBS), red blood corpuscles (BC), and plasma (PM)—were subjected to heat pretreatment (90 °C, 15 min) and enzymatic [...] Read more.
Goat blood, a major slaughterhouse by-product, was systematically valorized into dual-function bioactive peptides through an optimized four-step process. Four blood preparations—whole blood (HB), anticoagulant-treated blood (HBS), red blood corpuscles (BC), and plasma (PM)—were subjected to heat pretreatment (90 °C, 15 min) and enzymatic hydrolysis. Neutrase hydrolysis of heat-pretreated whole blood at 8% substrate concentration for 4 h (HBN-8) yielded optimal protein recovery (44.38%) with dual ACE (88.24%) and DPP-IV (81.13%) inhibition. Ultrafiltration enriched bioactive peptides in the ≤3 kDa fraction (DPP-IV: 87.8%; ACE: 65.5%). LC-MS/MS de novo sequencing identified 14 novel peptide sequences (4–9 amino acids), with the most potent SEC fraction showing IC50 values of 0.89 and 0.45 mg Leu eq./mL for DPP-IV and ACE inhibition, respectively. Critically, simulated gastrointestinal digestion enhanced rather than diminished bioactivity, with ACE inhibition increasing progressively to 60.91% at the intestinal phase, supported by predicted generation of bioactive fragments from parent sequences. Caco-2 assays confirmed peptide safety (100–1000 µg/mL) and demonstrated 10.47% transepithelial transport with retained dual inhibitory activities. This study establishes goat blood as a sustainable source of orally bioavailable, GI-stable peptides for the development of functional foods targeting hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Full article
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13 pages, 1577 KB  
Article
Preclinical Evaluation of 5F-αMe-3BPA for Improving Pharmacokinetics in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
by Naoya Kondo, Fuko Hirano, Saki Iritani, Kensuke Suzuki, Anna Miyazaki and Takashi Temma
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(5), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18050604 - 15 May 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) relies on the selective delivery of boron-10 to tumor cells. Although 4-[10B]borono-L-phenylalanine (BPA) is currently the only clinically approved BNCT agent, it is limited by poor L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)/LAT2 selectivity and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) relies on the selective delivery of boron-10 to tumor cells. Although 4-[10B]borono-L-phenylalanine (BPA) is currently the only clinically approved BNCT agent, it is limited by poor L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)/LAT2 selectivity and aqueous solubility. We previously developed 3-borono-5-fluoro-α-methyl-L-phenylalanine (5F-αMe-3BPA), a novel BPA derivative designed to be a LAT1-targeted BNCT/positron emission tomography theranostic agent. This study comprehensively characterizes its pharmacological profile and explores its pharmacokinetic optimization by modulating renal organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1). Methods: Transport kinetics of BPA, related analogs, and 5F-αMe-3BPA were analyzed in HEK293 cells stably expressing LAT1 or LAT2 using Michaelis–Menten analysis. Time-dependent cellular uptake and intracellular retention of BPA and 5F-αMe-3BPA were evaluated in T3M-4 pancreatic cancer cells with or without the LAT1 inhibitor JPH203. In vivo biodistribution was examined in T3M-4 tumor-bearing mice after intravenous administration of 5F-αMe-3BPA or BPA, with assessment of probenecid pretreatment. Results: 5F-αMe-3BPA retained LAT1 affinity comparable to that of BPA while showing markedly reduced LAT2-mediated transport, indicating improved LAT1/LAT2 selectivity. In T3M-4 cells, 5F-αMe-3BPA showed stronger LAT1 dependence, higher steady-state accumulation, and better intracellular retention than BPA under amino acid-containing conditions. Although 5F-αMe-3BPA achieved favorable tumor-to-plasma and tumor-to-muscle ratios in vivo, it was rapidly cleared from circulation. Probenecid pretreatment increased plasma exposure, reduced early renal accumulation, and significantly enhanced tumor boron accumulation, reaching approximately twofold higher levels than control. Conclusions: These findings establish 5F-αMe-3BPA as a highly LAT1-selective BNCT candidate and identify probenecid pretreatment as a clinically translatable pharmacokinetic strategy for maximizing therapeutic boron delivery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Boron-Based Drug Delivery Systems)
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Article
Complete Genome Analysis of a Flower-Associated Leuconostoc suionicum JNUCC 76 from Prunus yedoensis
by Kyung-A Hyun, Ji-Hyun Kim, Min Nyeong Ko and Chang-Gu Hyun
Bacteria 2026, 5(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/bacteria5020025 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 695
Abstract
Leuconostoc suionicum strain JNUCC 76 (=CH10) was isolated from cherry blossom flowers (Prunus yedoensis) collected on Jeju Island, Republic of Korea, representing a flower-associated strain of L. suionicum. To clarify its taxonomic position and genomic characteristics, whole-genome sequencing was performed [...] Read more.
Leuconostoc suionicum strain JNUCC 76 (=CH10) was isolated from cherry blossom flowers (Prunus yedoensis) collected on Jeju Island, Republic of Korea, representing a flower-associated strain of L. suionicum. To clarify its taxonomic position and genomic characteristics, whole-genome sequencing was performed using a hybrid PacBio–Illumina approach. The complete genome was assembled into a single circular chromosome of 2.20 Mb with a GC content of 36.8% and high sequencing depth, indicating a high-quality, closed genome assembly. Genome annotation revealed a compact gene repertoire dominated by functions related to carbohydrate transport and metabolism, amino acid utilization, and core cellular processes, consistent with adaptation to plant-derived, sugar-rich environments. Genome-based phylogenomic analyses using average nucleotide identity (ANI), digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH), and Genome BLAST Distance Phylogeny (GBDP) placed strain JNUCC 76 within the species L. suionicum. Genome-based metrics clearly exceeded the accepted species thresholds, supporting the assignment of the strain to L. suionicum. Secondary metabolite gene cluster analysis identified a limited number of low-complexity and precursor-oriented biosynthetic gene clusters, including RiPP-like, type III polyketide synthase, and terpene-precursor clusters, suggesting that the ecological fitness of the strain relies primarily on primary metabolism rather than extensive secondary metabolite production. Overall, this study expands current knowledge of flower-associated Leuconostoc lineages and provides a high-quality genomic framework for future comparative and functional studies. The genomic features of strain JNUCC 76 highlight floral environments as underexplored reservoirs of lactic acid bacteria diversity and support further evaluation of flower-derived Leuconostoc strains as potential postbiotic or fermentation-based resources for cosmetic and related biotechnological applications. Full article
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