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16 pages, 3297 KB  
Article
Larazotide Acetate Protects the Intestinal Mucosal Barrier from Anoxia/Reoxygenation Injury via Various Cellular Mechanisms
by Jain Kim, Jay P. Madan, Sandeep Laumas, B. Radha Krishnan and Younggeon Jin
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2483; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102483 (registering DOI) - 12 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background/Objective: Larazotide acetate (LA) is a synthetic octapeptide under development as a therapeutic candidate for celiac disease, acting to reduce intestinal permeability and regulate tight junctions (TJs). Although several studies have shown barrier-protective effects, the cellular mechanisms underlying LA’s actions in the [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Larazotide acetate (LA) is a synthetic octapeptide under development as a therapeutic candidate for celiac disease, acting to reduce intestinal permeability and regulate tight junctions (TJs). Although several studies have shown barrier-protective effects, the cellular mechanisms underlying LA’s actions in the intestinal epithelium remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanistic roles of LA in maintaining intestinal epithelial integrity during cellular injury. Methods: C2BBe1 and leaky IPEC-J2 cell monolayers were pretreated with 10 mM LA and subjected to anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R) injury. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), TJ protein localization, and phosphorylation of myosin light chain-2 (MLC-2) were analyzed. In addition, RNA sequencing was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes and signaling pathways affected by LA treatment. Results: LA pretreatment significantly increased TEER and preserved TJ protein organization during A/R injury. Transcriptomic analysis revealed enrichment of genes related to barrier regulation, small GTPase signaling, protein phosphorylation, proliferation, and migration. LA pretreatment markedly reduced MLC-2 phosphorylation, likely through modulation of the ROCK pathway, consistent with RNA-seq findings. Moreover, LA enhanced cellular proliferation, validating transcriptomic predictions. Conclusions: LA exerts a protective effect on intestinal epithelial integrity by stabilizing tight junctions, reducing MLC-2 phosphorylation, and promoting epithelial proliferation. These findings highlight a novel mechanism for LA and support its therapeutic potential in treating gastrointestinal disorders associated with “leaky gut” and mucosal injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
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22 pages, 2536 KB  
Article
Identification and In Vitro Evaluation of Milkfish (Chanos chanos) Frame Proteins and Hydrolysates with DPP-IV Inhibitory and Antioxidant Activities
by Anastacio T. Cagabhion, Wen-Ling Ko, Ting-Jui Chuang, Rotimi E. Aluko and Yu-Wei Chang
Foods 2025, 14(20), 3456; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203456 - 10 Oct 2025
Viewed by 164
Abstract
The study presents the potential of milkfish frame, a by-product of milkfish processing, as a source of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory and antioxidant peptides with potential applications in type 2 diabetes management. Proteomic analysis identified key proteins, including 65 kDa warm temperature [...] Read more.
The study presents the potential of milkfish frame, a by-product of milkfish processing, as a source of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory and antioxidant peptides with potential applications in type 2 diabetes management. Proteomic analysis identified key proteins, including 65 kDa warm temperature acclimation protein 1 and myosin heavy chain. In silico prediction (BIOPEP-UWM) guided the selection of proteases for generating DPP-IV inhibitory peptides. Enzymatic hydrolysates were produced and evaluated for bioactivity. Among the treatments, pepsin hydrolysis (2% v/v, 8 h) yielded the highest peptide content (283.64 mg/g), soluble protein (86.46%), and DPP-IV inhibitory activity (68.47%). The resulting milkfish frame pepsin hydrolysate (MFH) was further enhanced through ultrafiltration and simulated gastrointestinal digestion, which improved the DPP-IV inhibitory and antioxidant capacities. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed that MFH (0–100 μg/mL) was non-toxic to FL83B hepatocytes after 24 h. Moreover, treating TNF-α-induced FL83B cells with 10 μg/mL MFHs improved cell viability, reducing the toxicity induced by TNF-α in cells. These findings show that MFHs exhibit promising antidiabetic potential and could serve as natural alternatives to synthetic drugs for type 2 diabetes management. This also demonstrates the valorization of fish processing by-products into functional food ingredients, advancing sustainable approaches in food innovation. Full article
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16 pages, 2668 KB  
Article
Potato Protein Suppresses Proteolytic Activity and Improves Textural Property of Tropical and Cold-Water Fish Surimi
by Ali Hamzeh, Sunanta Chumee, Maarten Hotse Wilbrink, Robin Eric Jacobus Spelbrink, Marc Christiaan Laus and Jirawat Yongsawatdigul
Foods 2025, 14(19), 3444; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193444 - 8 Oct 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Potato protein (PP) at concentrations of 0.025–0.3% was added to tropical fish surimi, including lizardfish (LZ) and threadfin bream (TB), and cold-water fish, namely Alaska pollock (AP) and Pacific whiting (PW), to examine its effect on proteolytic inhibition and surimi gel texture. Tropical [...] Read more.
Potato protein (PP) at concentrations of 0.025–0.3% was added to tropical fish surimi, including lizardfish (LZ) and threadfin bream (TB), and cold-water fish, namely Alaska pollock (AP) and Pacific whiting (PW), to examine its effect on proteolytic inhibition and surimi gel texture. Tropical fish surimi, particularly LZ, exhibited the highest degree of autolysis induced by endogenous proteases (p < 0.05), as evidenced by degradation of myosin heavy chain and tropomyosin. PP demonstrated a broad range of proteolytic inhibition activities against chymotrypsin, trypsin, papain, and cathepsin L, with chymotrypsin being the most susceptible. At a PP concentration of 0.3%, the highest autolytic inhibition was obtained in AP (72.24%), followed by LZ surimi (60.44%, p < 0.05). Egg white protein (EW) showed autolytic inhibitory activity at 14.50–50.52% in all species at 0.3%. Surimi gels with only 0.025% PP exhibited breaking forces and distance comparable to those with added 0.3% EW, regardless of the cooking regimes. In tropical surimi, PP at 0.3% increased the breaking force by 4.13–5.38-fold under a setting condition (as the best heating regime) compared with the control. At this concentration, PP decreased the whiteness of LZ and AP in the set surimi gels by 7.03% and 6.42% (p < 0.05), respectively, whereas its effect on TB and PW surimi was negligible. The study demonstrates that PP can be a promising alternative to EW to control proteolytic degradation and improve textural properties of cold-water and tropical surimi. Full article
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27 pages, 1664 KB  
Review
Actomyosin-Based Nanodevices for Sensing and Actuation: Bridging Biology and Bioengineering
by Nicolas M. Brunet, Peng Xiong and Prescott Bryant Chase
Biosensors 2025, 15(10), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15100672 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 585
Abstract
The actomyosin complex—nature’s dynamic engine composed of actin filaments and myosin motors—is emerging as a versatile tool for bio-integrated nanotechnology. This review explores the growing potential of actomyosin-powered systems in biosensing and actuation applications, highlighting their compatibility with physiological conditions, responsiveness to biochemical [...] Read more.
The actomyosin complex—nature’s dynamic engine composed of actin filaments and myosin motors—is emerging as a versatile tool for bio-integrated nanotechnology. This review explores the growing potential of actomyosin-powered systems in biosensing and actuation applications, highlighting their compatibility with physiological conditions, responsiveness to biochemical and physical cues and modular adaptability. We begin with a comparative overview of natural and synthetic nanomachines, positioning actomyosin as a uniquely scalable and biocompatible platform. We then discuss experimental advances in controlling actomyosin activity through ATP, calcium, heat, light and electric fields, as well as their integration into in vitro motility assays, soft robotics and neural interface systems. Emphasis is placed on longstanding efforts to harness actomyosin as a biosensing element—capable of converting chemical or environmental signals into measurable mechanical or electrical outputs that can be used to provide valuable clinical and basic science information such as functional consequences of disease-associated genetic variants in cardiovascular genes. We also highlight engineering challenges such as stability, spatial control and upscaling, and examine speculative future directions, including emotion-responsive nanodevices. By bridging cell biology and bioengineering, actomyosin-based systems offer promising avenues for real-time sensing, diagnostics and therapeutic feedback in next-generation biosensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosensors for Personalized Treatment)
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17 pages, 1003 KB  
Article
Effect of Emerging Contaminants (Sucralose) at Relevant Concentrations on Functional Properties in Fish Muscle of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
by Karinne Saucedo-Vence, Octavio Dublán-García, Ana Gabriela Morachis-Valdez, Daniel Díaz-Bandera, Francisco Antonio López-Medina, Guadalupe López-García, Andrea Yazmín Guadarrama-Lezama, Gerardo Heredia-García, Angel Santillán-Álvarez, Leobardo Manuel Gómez-Oliván and Elvia Alba-Rojas
Foods 2025, 14(19), 3387; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193387 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 250
Abstract
Sucralose, a persistent and widely used artificial sweetener, has emerged as a significant contaminant in aquatic environments, raising concerns about its ecological and physiological effects on aquatic species. This study investigates the impact of environmentally relevant concentrations of sucralose on the muscle quality [...] Read more.
Sucralose, a persistent and widely used artificial sweetener, has emerged as a significant contaminant in aquatic environments, raising concerns about its ecological and physiological effects on aquatic species. This study investigates the impact of environmentally relevant concentrations of sucralose on the muscle quality of common carp (Cyprinus carpio), a bioindicator species. Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), sucralose was quantified in water and fish muscle tissues, revealing its persistence and bioaccumulation. Sucralose exposure disrupted critical physicochemical, textural, and structural properties of fish muscle. Protein carbonyl content increased up to 10-fold, while lipid peroxidation levels rose significantly, indicating oxidative stress. Sulfhydryl groups were reduced by more than 40%, and water-holding capacity decreased by 12%, compromising muscle functionality. Textural profile analysis revealed alterations in hardness, cohesiveness, and elasticity, linked to covalent bond formation induced by protein oxidation. Furthermore, electrophoretic analysis confirmed myosin degradation, underscoring sucralose’s role as a pro-oxidant, even at low concentrations. These findings demonstrate that sucralose can adversely affect aquatic organisms by impairing muscle integrity, with potential consequences for their survival, ecological roles, and food web dynamics. This study underscores the urgent need to regulate and monitor artificial sweeteners in aquatic systems to mitigate long-term ecological impacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Meat)
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25 pages, 2161 KB  
Article
Long-Term Physical Activity Modulates Lipid Metabolism and Gene Expression in Muscle and Fat Tissues of Alentejano Pigs
by José Manuel Martins, André Albuquerque, David Silva, José A. Neves, Rui Charneca and Amadeu Freitas
Agriculture 2025, 15(19), 2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15192047 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 201
Abstract
This study examined the effect of long-term physical activity during the finishing period on meat and fat quality, and metabolic gene expression in obese Alentejano (AL) pigs. From 87.3 to 161.6 kg BW and for 130 days, eighteen pigs were assigned to either [...] Read more.
This study examined the effect of long-term physical activity during the finishing period on meat and fat quality, and metabolic gene expression in obese Alentejano (AL) pigs. From 87.3 to 161.6 kg BW and for 130 days, eighteen pigs were assigned to either individual pens without an exercise area (NE, n = 9) or an outdoor park with an exercise area (WE, n = 9). Both groups received identical commercial diets at 85% ad libitum intake. Loin (Longissimus lumborum—LL), tenderloin (Psoas major—PM), and dorsal subcutaneous fat samples were obtained at slaughter, and analyzed for fatty acid composition and gene expression. Physical activity modulated the fatty acid profile and key metabolic genes in muscle and fat tissues. WE pigs showed higher palmitoleic (p = 0.031) and linolenic (p = 0.022) acids in LL, while Fatty acid synthase and Leptin in LL were downregulated (p = 0.071 and p = 0.018, respectively); Fatty acid binding protein 4 was downregulated (p = 0.003) and Stearoyl-CoA desaturase upregulated (p = 0.020) in the PM of WE pigs, indicating changes in lipid metabolism. Also, Myosin heavy chain 7 was upregulated (p = 0.016) in LL, suggesting oxidative muscle remodeling. These findings suggest that moderate, long-term physical activity during finishing induces modest but favorable metabolic adaptations in muscle and fat tissues without compromising meat quality in AL pigs, supporting its use in traditional rearing systems aimed at balancing animal welfare and product quality in local breeds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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26 pages, 2366 KB  
Review
Cardiac Myosin Inhibitors in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: From Sarcomere to Clinic
by Kazufumi Nakamura, Takahiro Okumura, Seiya Kato, Kenji Onoue, Toru Kubo, Hidemichi Kouzu, Toshiyuki Yano and Takayuki Inomata
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9347; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199347 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 782
Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a primary myocardial disease characterized by unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy, often resulting from pathogenic variants of sarcomeric protein genes. Conventional treatments, such as the use of beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, focus on symptomatic control but do not [...] Read more.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a primary myocardial disease characterized by unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy, often resulting from pathogenic variants of sarcomeric protein genes. Conventional treatments, such as the use of beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, focus on symptomatic control but do not address the underlying hypercontractility at the sarcomere level. Recent advances in molecular understanding have led to the development of cardiac myosin inhibitors that directly modulate sarcomeric function by reducing myosin–actin cross-bridge formation and adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity. Mavacamten and aficamten have shown promising results in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials, improving symptoms, exercise capacity, and left ventricular outflow tract gradients in patients with obstructive HCM. This review summarizes the current understanding of HCM pathophysiology, diagnostic strategies, and conventional treatments with a focus on the mechanisms of action of myosin inhibitors, clinical evidence supporting their use, and future directions for improvement. We also discuss their potential applications in non-obstructive HCM and the importance of precision medicine guided by genetic profiling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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14 pages, 2438 KB  
Article
Anti-Atrophic Effects of Dichotomine B from Stellaria dichotoma During Starvation-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy
by Jae-Yong Kim, Uttapol Permpoon, Ju-hee Lee, Ji Hoon Kim, Hye Mi Kim, Je-Seung Jeon, Tae-gyu Nam and Chul Young Kim
Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3839; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183839 - 22 Sep 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
Muscle atrophy is defined as reductions in muscle size and function and represents a critical concern affecting elderly populations, immobilized patients, and individuals following specific dietary regimens, such as fasting and low-protein diets. This study investigated the protective effects of Stellaria dichotoma root [...] Read more.
Muscle atrophy is defined as reductions in muscle size and function and represents a critical concern affecting elderly populations, immobilized patients, and individuals following specific dietary regimens, such as fasting and low-protein diets. This study investigated the protective effects of Stellaria dichotoma root extract and its isolated bioactive compounds during muscle atrophy using both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. First, S. dichotoma root extract prevented dexamethasone (DEX)-induced atrophy in C2C12 myotubes. Through systematic solvent partitioning and resin chromatography, five compounds (15) were successfully isolated from the n-butanol fraction. Dichotomine B (2) was identified as the most abundant and bioactive constituent. Treatment with dichotomine B significantly preserved the myotube diameter, enhanced the fusion index, and maintained the myosin heavy chain protein level while suppressing key atrophic biomarkers, including FoxO3a, MuRF-1, and Atrogin-1, in DEX-treated myotubes. Furthermore, dichotomine B (2) reduced proteolysis in serum-free cultured C2C12 myotubes and in mice subjected to 48 h of fasting, preserving muscle mass and strength. These findings suggest that S. dichotoma root extract and its principal compound, dichotomine B (2), have promising therapeutic potential and provide an opportunity to develop novel pharmacological interventions against muscle wasting through suppression of proteolysis pathways. Full article
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14 pages, 1306 KB  
Article
Comparative Analyses of Gene and Protein Expressions and the Lipid Contents in Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Fat Tissues in Fattening Steers
by Kaixi Ji, Ming Yang, Ziying Tan, Hongbo Zhao and Xianglun Zhang
Animals 2025, 15(18), 2733; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15182733 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to characterize intramuscular fat (IMF) tissue in fattening steers through a comparison with subcutaneous fat (SCF) tissue. The IMF of the longissimus thoracis et lumborum and the SCF of the back fat from three fattening steers (mean body [...] Read more.
In this study, we aimed to characterize intramuscular fat (IMF) tissue in fattening steers through a comparison with subcutaneous fat (SCF) tissue. The IMF of the longissimus thoracis et lumborum and the SCF of the back fat from three fattening steers (mean body weight of 703.50 ± 11.45 kg) were collected, and the muscle tissue, connective tissue, and fascia were carefully removed. Gene and protein expressions and the lipid contents were assessed via transcriptomic, proteomic, and lipidomic analyses, respectively. Subsequently, tissue-specific factors were identified using integrated analysis. The results revealed that the expressions of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ transporting 2 (ATP2A2), enolase 3 (ENO3), fructose-bisphosphatase 2 (FBP2), myosin heavy chain 7 (MYH7), myosin light chain 3 (MYL3), myosin light chain kinase (MYLK), glycogen phosphorylase (PYGM), troponin C1 (TNNC1), and tropomyosin 2 (TPM2) significantly increased in IMF at both the mRNA and protein levels, whereas those of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4), stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), and apolipoprotein E (APOE) were reduced. The abundances of both phosphatidylinositol (PI) (18:1/20:4) and phosphatidylcholine (PC) (15:0/18:2) were positively correlated with APOE. Conversely, that of PI (18:1/20:4) was negatively correlated with ENO3 and PYGM, whereas PC (15:0/18:2) was negatively correlated with TNNC1 and MYLK. In conclusion, we identified calcium signaling and glycolysis as key IMF-regulating pathways. ATP2A2, ENO3, FBP2, MYH7, MYL3, MYLK, PYGM, TNNC1, TPM2, and LPE 18:0 were negatively associated with IMF deposition, whereas FABP4, SCD, APOE, PI (18:1/20:4), and PC (15:0/18:2) were positively associated with it. These findings offer underlying IMF-related targets to promote IMF deposition in cattle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Omics)
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22 pages, 2736 KB  
Article
Proteomic Screening for Cellular Targets of the Duck Enteritis Virus Protein VP26 Reveals That the Host Actin–Myosin II Network Regulates the Proliferation of the Virus
by Liu Chen, Yin-Chu Zhu, Tao Yun, Wei-Cheng Ye, Zheng Ni, Jiong-Gang Hua and Cun Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(18), 9108; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26189108 - 18 Sep 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
Duck enteritis virus (DEV) is responsible for duck viral enteritis, a contagious and lethal disease in waterfowls. The host proteins targeted by DEV are unknown. In this study, we developed a recombinant DEV rVP26-Flag and identified 17 host proteins that interact with VP26 [...] Read more.
Duck enteritis virus (DEV) is responsible for duck viral enteritis, a contagious and lethal disease in waterfowls. The host proteins targeted by DEV are unknown. In this study, we developed a recombinant DEV rVP26-Flag and identified 17 host proteins that interact with VP26 in infected chicken embryo fibroblast cells using co-immunoprecipitation in conjunction with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (Co-IP-MS/MS). The 17 potential targets of VP26 proteins include Xirp1, TMOD3, DCN, ATP5PD, AP3M1, MYO5A, MYH10, MYH9 (non-muscle myosin IIA heavy chain), and GSN. Most of these proteins are microfilament or cytoskeletal proteins with functions such as cytoskeletal protein binding, actin filament interaction, microfilament motor activity, and myosin II interaction. Using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes analysis, we predicted a functional network of microfilament cytoskeletal proteins interacting with VP26. Interaction between DEV VP26 and the carboxyl-terminus domain of MYH9 (1651–1960 aa) was verified via co-localization and Co-IP assays. We also demonstrated that the inhibition of actin polymerization with cytochalasin D and latrunculin A reduced the DEV titer. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated knockdown of MYH9, which has intrinsic ATPase activity, also resulted in a reduced viral titer. A targeted inhibitor of myosin II ATPase, (-)-Blebbistatin, significantly suppressed DEV infection both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that the actin–myosin II network plays a crucial role in DEV proliferation, with MYH9 being an important host factor influencing DEV infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology)
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21 pages, 6074 KB  
Article
Therapeutic Potential of Probiotic-Derived P8 Protein as an Anti-Metastatic Agent in Colorectal Cancer
by Byung Chull An, Seungwoo Kim, Jaewon Ha, Sang-Hyuk Seok, Jun Won Park, Yongku Ryu and Myung Jun Chung
Microorganisms 2025, 13(9), 2175; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13092175 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 436
Abstract
We previously described the use of probiotics to deliver a Lactobacillus rhamnosus-derived therapeutic protein, P8, which has been identified as a candidate colorectal cancer (CRC) suppressor protein with anti-proliferation and anti-migration activities. P8 was found to penetrate cell membranes by endocytosis, suppressing [...] Read more.
We previously described the use of probiotics to deliver a Lactobacillus rhamnosus-derived therapeutic protein, P8, which has been identified as a candidate colorectal cancer (CRC) suppressor protein with anti-proliferation and anti-migration activities. P8 was found to penetrate cell membranes by endocytosis, suppressing cell proliferation through G2 cell cycle arrest. Despite the ability of P8 to suppress cell migration in vitro, its mechanism of action in CRC is unclear. We profiled the P8-interacting partner proteins using the pull-down method with His-tagged bait P8 and then identified them by LC-MS/MS. Among the interacting targets, we focused on the mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 1 (Smad1), which is well known as one of the important modulators of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-derived migration pathway in CRC. The present study discovers that P8 prevents the phosphorylation of Smad1 or heterologous complexes within the Smad family, interfering with the importation of Smad1 or its complexes into the nucleus. Thus, P8 significantly inhibits the up-regulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes mediated by Smad1. P8 also inhibits the morphological changes required for cell migration or adhesion. P8 induces morphologic changes in DLD-1 cells, and their spheroid surfaces, resulting in a significant reduction of the number and length of filopodia, as well as the down-regulation of the expression of myosin X and its accumulation in filopodia tips. This phenomenon seems to be a major negative regulator of cell motility that could be of key importance in metastasis. Use of a mouse model of human CRC metastasis confirmed that P8 significantly suppresses the liver metastatic rate. Probiotic-derived protein P8 significantly suppresses CRC metastasis through inhibition of the Smad1-EMT signal pathway and cell–cell adhesion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic News and Updates on Probiotics)
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15 pages, 1970 KB  
Article
Role of RhoGEFs or RhoGAPs in Pyk2-Mediated RhoA Activation in Depolarization-Induced Contraction of Rat Caudal Arterial Smooth Muscle
by Kazuki Aida, Mitsuo Mita and Reiko Ishii-Nozawa
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178676 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 954
Abstract
It has previously been reported that the RhoA/Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) pathway is involved in depolarization-induced contraction triggered by high [K+] stimulation in rat caudal arterial smooth muscle. Furthermore, we reported that activation of the upstream Ca2+-dependent proline-rich tyrosine kinase [...] Read more.
It has previously been reported that the RhoA/Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) pathway is involved in depolarization-induced contraction triggered by high [K+] stimulation in rat caudal arterial smooth muscle. Furthermore, we reported that activation of the upstream Ca2+-dependent proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2) leads to phosphorylation of myosin targeting subunit of myosin light chain phosphatase (MYPT1) and 20 kDa myosin light chain (LC20). These findings suggest that Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RhoGEFs) or Rho GTPase-activating proteins (RhoGAPs) may mediate RhoA activation downstream of Pyk2, thereby contributing to depolarization-induced contraction. However, it remains unclear whether Pyk2 directly interacts with RhoGEFs or RhoGAPs. In this study, we investigated the interaction between Pyk2 and RhoGEFs or RhoGAPs during depolarization stimulation of rat caudal arterial smooth muscle. We examined the interaction between Pyk2 and RhoGEFs or RhoGAPs, which previously were identified in smooth muscle, specifically in rat caudal arterial smooth muscle, in response to 60 mM K+ stimulation by immunoprecipitation analysis. ArhGEF11, ArhGEF12, phosphorylated ArhGAP42 at Tyr792 (pTyr792-ArhGAP42) and phosphorylated ArhGAP42 at Tyr376 (pTyr376-ArhGAP42) co-immunoprecipitated with Pyk2. The co-immunoprecipitation of pTyr792-ArhGAP42, but not pTyr376-ArhGAP42, with Pyk2 was inhibited by a Pyk2 inhibitor, sodium salicylate. Furthermore, 60 mM K+ stimulation increased ArhGAP42 phosphorylation at Tyr792, which was also suppressed by sodium salicylate. These findings indicate that Pyk2-mediated phosphorylation of ArhGAP42 at Tyr792 may play a role in depolarization-induced contraction of rat caudal arterial smooth muscle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smooth Muscle Cells in Vascular Disease)
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17 pages, 1556 KB  
Article
Effects of Genotype and Sex on Carcass Traits, Myosin Heavy Chain Isoforms and Meat Characteristics of Pigs
by Chanporn Chaosap, Wuttikorn Buajoom, Numfon Pothising, Chananya Kongtasorn and Kazeem D. Adeyemi
Animals 2025, 15(17), 2535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15172535 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of genotype and sex on carcass traits, myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms, and meat quality in pigs raised under Thai commercial conditions. Fifty pigs (25 barrows and 25 gilts) from five genotypes—purebred Duroc (D), LWLR1 (Large White_old × [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of genotype and sex on carcass traits, myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms, and meat quality in pigs raised under Thai commercial conditions. Fifty pigs (25 barrows and 25 gilts) from five genotypes—purebred Duroc (D), LWLR1 (Large White_old × Landrace_old), LWLR2 (Large White_new × Landrace_new), DLWLR1 (Duroc × LWLR1), and DLWLR2 (Duroc × LWLR2)—were slaughtered at ~110 kg body weight. LWLR1 is traditional maternal line, whereas LWLR2 is a newly selected line for higher intramuscular fat (IMF). Significant genotype × sex interactions were observed for dressing percentage, carcass length, bone percentage, purge loss, pH24, and L* (lightness) (p < 0.05). The Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle of Duroc pigs showed the lowest pH45 and shear force but highest IMF, whereas LWLR1 pigs exhibited higher crude protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and flavor-enhancing nucleotides. The LL muscle of LWLR2 and DLWLR2 pigs showed greater expression of MyHC I and IIA, as well as calpain 1 (CAPN1), calpain 2 (CAPN2), and calpastatin (CAST) genes. In contrast, Duroc pigs had the highest MyHC IIX and lowest IIB expression, opposite to patterns in LWLR1 and DLWLR1. Principal component analysis revealed distinct genotype-based clustering, emphasizing the influence of maternal lineage on pork quality and offering valuable insights for genetic selection strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pigs)
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17 pages, 2720 KB  
Article
Effects of Sodium Hypochlorite Rinsing on Tilapia Storage: An Investigation Based on Muscle Quality and Tissue Protease Activity
by Zirui Fu, Shuxian Hao, Huan Xiang, Chunsheng Li, Jianwei Cen, Ya Wei, Shengjun Chen, Yongqiang Zhao, Xiao Hu, Yuhong Yan, Hui Huang and Jun Li
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2868; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162868 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1511
Abstract
Sodium hypochlorite solution has a good bacterial reduction effect. Thus, in order to understand the effect of sodium hypochlorite on tilapia storage, in this study, tilapia fillets were treated with sodium hypochlorite and Proclin 300 rinsing, the activity of histatinase protease was measured, [...] Read more.
Sodium hypochlorite solution has a good bacterial reduction effect. Thus, in order to understand the effect of sodium hypochlorite on tilapia storage, in this study, tilapia fillets were treated with sodium hypochlorite and Proclin 300 rinsing, the activity of histatinase protease was measured, and the muscle quality was assessed by the texture, colour, pH, myofibrillar fibril fragmentation index (MFI) and its structural changes. The results showed that sodium hypochlorite rinsing could significantly reduce the activities of histatinase enzymes B, L and D. Meanwhile, the sodium hypochlorite-treated group showed less degradation of myosin heavy chain, pro-myosin and myosin light chain, less degradation of texture and colour, better integrity in the fish myocytes, and a lower myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI). In conclusion, sodium hypochlorite improved the storage quality of tilapia in several ways. Firstly, it inhibited protease activity, thereby maintaining the structural integrity of fish muscle fibres. Secondly, it reduced the rate of deterioration during storage. Full article
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19 pages, 3527 KB  
Article
Effects of Tea Polyphenols on Post-Weaning Meat Quality and Antioxidant Status in Lambs
by Yuxin Bai, Jialin Wang, Jian Ma, Chunmei Du and Fuquan Yin
Animals 2025, 15(16), 2414; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15162414 - 18 Aug 2025
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Abstract
In this present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of adding tea polyphenols to feed on the meat quality, muscle antioxidant capacity, and muscle fatty acid composition of lambs. Forty healthy 45-day-old weaned lambs with similar body weights (average initial weight 9.1 [...] Read more.
In this present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of adding tea polyphenols to feed on the meat quality, muscle antioxidant capacity, and muscle fatty acid composition of lambs. Forty healthy 45-day-old weaned lambs with similar body weights (average initial weight 9.1 ± 0.8 kg) were randomly divided into four treatment groups (n = 10) for a 45-day trial. The control group (CON) was fed a basal diet, while the other three groups (TP2, TP4, and TP6) received the basal diet supplemented with 2, 4, and 6 g/kg of tea polyphenols, respectively. Supplementation with tea polyphenols significantly reduced the cooked meat rate of biceps femoris in the TP2 and TP6 groups, and significantly increased the pH values of triceps brachii at 0 h and 24 h in the TP6 group (p < 0.05). Increased activities of total superoxide dismutase in the longissimus dorsi and glutathione peroxidase in biceps femoris, significantly decreased contents of hydrogen peroxide in the biceps femoris and triceps brachii, and significantly increased activity of catalase in triceps brachii were observed (p < 0.05). TP4 and TP6 significantly increased the activities of the total antioxidant capacity in biceps femoris and glutathione peroxidase in triceps brachii, and significantly decreased the concentration of malondialdehyde in biceps femoris (p < 0.05). The dietary tea polyphenols significantly increased the contents of C16-1, C18-1n9t, C18-2n6c, C18-3n3, C18-3n6, n-3 PUFAs, and n-6 PUFAs in the longissimus dorsi of the TP6 group (p < 0.05), and the ratio of n6/n3 in the biceps femoris of lambs changed significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, the relative expression levels of myosin heavy chainsI (MyHCI) and MyHCIIa mRNAs in the muscles were significantly increased, and the relative expression levels of MyHCIIX and MyHCIIB mRNAs in the muscles were significantly decreased. And in terms of comprehensive economic benefits, it is most appropriate to add 6 g/kg tea polyphenols to the diet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Additives in Animal Nutrition)
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