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15 pages, 1193 KB  
Article
Reference Gene Selection for Quantitative Gene Expression Analysis in Argynnis hyperbius
by Hong-Juan Xin, Chen-Yang Liu, Feng Yan, Lu-Dan Wang, Huan-Huan Zhang, Chen-Hui Shen and Qing Zhai
Insects 2025, 16(10), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16101008 - 28 Sep 2025
Abstract
Argynnis hyperbius (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), as an important environmental indicator species, has shown a gradual decline in its species richness amid intensifying climate change and increasing environmental pressures. Screening for optimal reference genes is fundamental to studying their physiological and adaptive changes using [...] Read more.
Argynnis hyperbius (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), as an important environmental indicator species, has shown a gradual decline in its species richness amid intensifying climate change and increasing environmental pressures. Screening for optimal reference genes is fundamental to studying their physiological and adaptive changes using RT-qPCR technology. In this study, 10 commonly used reference genes (ACT, α-TUB, AK, GAPDH, EF1α, BTF3, RPS3, RPL10, RPL32, and RPL27) were selected, and their expression stability under different developmental stages, genders, and temperature treatments was evaluated using the RefFinder website. The results indicated that selecting a pair of reference genes could achieve the most reliable normalization analysis under all experimental conditions. Specifically, AK and EF1α were the most stably expressed reference genes across different developmental stages; ACT and RPL32 showed the most stable expression in different adult sexes; and EF1α and RPL27 exhibited stable expression under different temperature treatments. Additionally, this study used EF1α and RPL32, the most stable reference genes from all results, to normalize and analyze the relative transcription levels of HSP90 under different temperatures, revealing significant differences between the 4 °C group and both the 26 °C and 37 °C groups. The findings of this study will significantly improve the reliability of RT-qPCR detection and lay a foundation for in-depth research on the gene expression, physiology, and biochemical mechanisms of A. hyperbius. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
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43 pages, 8985 KB  
Review
Uncovering Analytical Patterns for Hazardous Components in Agricultural Production Systems
by Shiyu Deng, Xinxin Wu, Yongqiang Shi, Hany S. El-Mesery and Xinai Zhang
Foods 2025, 14(18), 3261; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14183261 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 308
Abstract
Global food safety concerns underscore the critical importance of detecting hazardous components in agricultural production. This systematic review uncovers the prevalence and health impacts of common hazardous agents in agricultural commodities, including pesticide residues, heavy metals, mycotoxins, microbial contaminants, antibiotic residues, and genetically [...] Read more.
Global food safety concerns underscore the critical importance of detecting hazardous components in agricultural production. This systematic review uncovers the prevalence and health impacts of common hazardous agents in agricultural commodities, including pesticide residues, heavy metals, mycotoxins, microbial contaminants, antibiotic residues, and genetically modified material. It thoroughly analyzes research progress in conventional detection methodologies. Furthermore, the review critically examines current challenges and future trajectories in analysis patterns, with particular emphasis on integrated technological approaches, field-deployable rapid detection devices, and the development of global standardized frameworks. This work aims to provide comprehensive technical guidance for the efficient and precise detection of hazardous components in agricultural products and to inform the advancement of robust food safety regulatory systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Quality and Safety)
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38 pages, 1601 KB  
Review
Bioengineered Skin Microbiome: The Next Frontier in Personalized Cosmetics
by Cherelle Atallah, Ayline El Abiad, Marita El Abiad, Mantoura Nakad and Jean Claude Assaf
Cosmetics 2025, 12(5), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12050205 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1353
Abstract
Human skin microbiome plays a fundamental role in maintaining skin health, immunity, and appearance. While current microbiome-friendly cosmetics emphasize the use of probiotics and prebiotics, recent advances in bioengineering are paving the way for a new generation of personalized and sustainable skincare solutions. [...] Read more.
Human skin microbiome plays a fundamental role in maintaining skin health, immunity, and appearance. While current microbiome-friendly cosmetics emphasize the use of probiotics and prebiotics, recent advances in bioengineering are paving the way for a new generation of personalized and sustainable skincare solutions. This evolution is increasingly necessary given the limitations of conventional dermatological treatments in addressing individual variability. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), synthetic biology, and high-throughput microbiome sequencing now enable precise skin analysis and the development of tailored, more effective cosmetic formulations. This review critically examines these technological breakthroughs, including genetic modification of microbial strains, engineered delivery systems, and quorum sensing modulation, with a focus on their cosmetic and therapeutic applications. These innovations not only facilitate product customization but also reduce environmental impact by minimizing resource use, synthetic chemicals, and testing burdens aligning with sustainability goals. Several structured tables synthesize the latest findings on microbial targets, bioengineered ingredients, delivery platforms, and mechanistic pathways, providing a practical reference for researchers and product developers. Additionally, this review addresses key regulatory and safety considerations, particularly those associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in cosmetic products. It highlights the need for region-specific clinical trials, toxicity assessments, and microbial safety screening to ensure consumer protection. While current frameworks offer a foundation, further ethical and environmental guidelines may be necessary as synthetic biology advances. Thus, AI-integrated synthetic biology and microbiome transplantation emerge as transformative pathways for advancing sustainable, personalized skincare innovation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cosmetic Dermatology)
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19 pages, 1528 KB  
Article
Magnetic Nanoparticle-Based DNA Isolation from Refined Soybean Oil: A Cost-Effective Approach for GM Testing
by Yimiao Xia, Mengru Guo, Kunlun Liu, Ying Xin and Fusheng Chen
Foods 2025, 14(18), 3186; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14183186 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 466
Abstract
Soybean oil has recently emerged as the most widely consumed genetically modified (GM) vegetable oil globally. DNA-based methods offer considerable advantages for monitoring GM-derived products; however, their efficacy strongly depends on the quality and quantity of extracted DNA. Owing to intensive processing, refined [...] Read more.
Soybean oil has recently emerged as the most widely consumed genetically modified (GM) vegetable oil globally. DNA-based methods offer considerable advantages for monitoring GM-derived products; however, their efficacy strongly depends on the quality and quantity of extracted DNA. Owing to intensive processing, refined oils typically contain extremely low concentrations of severely fragmented DNA, making DNA extraction highly challenging. To address this issue, we introduce an innovative magnetic bead-based DNA extraction protocol specifically tailored to refined soybean oils. Optimal DNA adsorption was achieved using 300 nm carboxyl (-COOH)-modified magnetic beads under optimized conditions, including 1 M guanidine isothiocyanate (GITC) buffer at pH 6.0, combined with ethanol at a 1:1 ratio. Subsequently, we developed a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-magnetic bead method in which DNA was efficiently transferred from the oil phase to the aqueous phase, concentrated via precipitation, resuspended in GITC buffer, and finally purified using magnetic beads. Comparative evaluations using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR confirmed that this method significantly outperformed traditional CTAB-based methods (CTAB alone, CTAB-hexane) and two representative silica membrane-based extraction kits. Spike recovery experiments further demonstrated its superior efficacy, achieving a DNA recovery rate of 76.37%. The proposed protocol is simple, user-friendly, cost-effective, and highly efficient, markedly reducing reliance on large volumes of organic solvents (e.g., hexane and chloroform) and minimizing the required centrifugation steps. This novel method established an effective approach for DNA extraction from refined vegetable oils, facilitating the development of rapid and reliable GM detection. Full article
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15 pages, 2897 KB  
Article
Study and Modification of the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Degradation Gene Cluster in Burkholderia sp. FM-2
by Jiajun Ma, Ying Zhai, Yumeng Cui, Guohui Gao, Ming Ying, Yihe Zhao, Agostinho Antunes, Lei Huang and Meitong Li
Microorganisms 2025, 13(9), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13092079 - 6 Sep 2025
Viewed by 423
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of persistent organic pollutants composed of two or more fused benzene rings, posing serious threats to ecological environments and human health. Biodegradation is an efficient, economical, and sustainable approach for remediating PAHs pollution. In our previous [...] Read more.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of persistent organic pollutants composed of two or more fused benzene rings, posing serious threats to ecological environments and human health. Biodegradation is an efficient, economical, and sustainable approach for remediating PAHs pollution. In our previous work, we isolated and characterized a PAH-degrading bacterium, Burkholderia sp. FM-2. FM-2 demonstrated strong tolerance and efficient degradation capacity toward various PAHs, achieving 81.98% degradation of 2 mM phenanthrene within 3 days, and over 58% degradation of 2 mM fluorene, dibenzofuran, and dibenzothiophene under the same conditions. Through combined genomic and transcriptomic analyses, a putative PAH degradation gene cluster was identified in the FM-2 genome. Phylogenetic and domain architecture analyses were conducted on seven oxygenase genes within the cluster. Using AlphaFold 3, we predicted the three-dimensional structure of the downstream transport protein OmpW and proposed a potential transmembrane channel for PAHs uptake. To eliminate the phenanthrene degradation intermediate 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, a genetically engineered strain FM-2::nahG was constructed by heterologous expression of the salicylate hydroxylase gene (nahG). The modified strain completely abolished the accumulation of 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid and achieved complete mineralization of phenanthrene. This study not only reveals the molecular basis of PAHs degradation in Burkholderia sp. FM-2 but also demonstrates the potential of metabolic engineering to enhance biodegradation ability, providing a promising microbial candidate for the bioremediation of PAH-polluted environments. Full article
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30 pages, 6580 KB  
Article
Advanced Nanomaterial-Based Electrochemical Biosensing of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Products
by Ana Kuprešanin, Marija Pavlović, Ljiljana Šašić Zorić, Milinko Perić, Stefan Jarić, Teodora Knežić, Ljiljana Janjušević, Zorica Novaković, Marko Radović, Mila Djisalov, Nikola Kanas, Jovana Paskaš and Zoran Pavlović
Biosensors 2025, 15(9), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15090584 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 829
Abstract
The rapid and sensitive detection of regulatory elements within transgenic constructs of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is essential for effective monitoring and control of their distribution. In this study, we present several innovative electrochemical biosensing platforms for the detection of regulatory sequences in [...] Read more.
The rapid and sensitive detection of regulatory elements within transgenic constructs of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is essential for effective monitoring and control of their distribution. In this study, we present several innovative electrochemical biosensing platforms for the detection of regulatory sequences in genetically modified (GM) plants, combining the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method with electrodes functionalized by two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials. The sensor design exploits the high surface area and excellent conductivity of reduced graphene oxide, Ti3C2Tx, and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) to enhance signal transduction. Furthermore, we used a “green synthesis” method for Ti3C2Tx preparation that eliminates the use of hazardous hydrofluoric acid (HF) and hydrochloric acid (HCl), providing a safer and more sustainable approach for nanomaterial production. Within this framework, the performance of various custom-fabricated electrodes, including laser-patterned gold leaf films, physical vapor deposition (PVD)-deposited gold electrodes, and screen-printed gold electrodes, is evaluated and compared with commercial screen-printed gold electrodes. Additionally, gold and carbon electrodes were electrochemically covered by gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and their properties were compared. Several electrochemical methods were used during the DNA detection, and their importance and differences in excitation signal were highlighted. Electrochemical properties, sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility are characterized for each electrode type to assess the influence of fabrication methods and material composition on sensor performance. The developed biosensing systems exhibit high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid response, highlighting their potential as practical tools for on-site GMO screening and regulatory compliance monitoring. This work advances electrochemical nucleic acid detection by integrating environmentally-friendly nanomaterial synthesis with robust biosensing technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensor Materials)
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30 pages, 3427 KB  
Article
Consumer Trust in Emerging Food Technologies: A Comparative Analysis of Croatia and India
by Marko Šostar, Jaiji Joy and Hareesh N. Ramanathan
Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7993; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177993 - 4 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1024
Abstract
Consumer trust plays a critical role in the successful adoption of emerging food technologies. This study investigates how trust in five key food technologies—genetically modified organisms (GMO), 3D-printed food, lab-grown meat, nanotechnology, and functional foods—varies across two culturally distinct countries: Croatia and India. [...] Read more.
Consumer trust plays a critical role in the successful adoption of emerging food technologies. This study investigates how trust in five key food technologies—genetically modified organisms (GMO), 3D-printed food, lab-grown meat, nanotechnology, and functional foods—varies across two culturally distinct countries: Croatia and India. Utilizing a quantitative approach with responses from 538 participants, the research explores how demographic factors such as country of residence, gender, and urban-rural setting influence consumer attitudes. Statistical analysis was conducted using MANOVA and one-way ANOVA to test seven hypotheses regarding trust levels. The results revealed significant cross-national differences, with Indian consumers expressing higher trust across all technologies studied. In contrast, variables such as gender and place of residence showed limited or context-dependent influence. These findings underscore the importance of cultural context in shaping consumer trust and point to the need for targeted communication and policy strategies in promoting food innovation. The study contributes to the growing body of research on food technology adoption by emphasizing trust as a culturally embedded and demographically nuanced phenomenon. Full article
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13 pages, 1448 KB  
Review
A Review of Syndromic Forms of Obesity: Genetic Etiology, Clinical Features, and Molecular Diagnosis
by Anam Farzand, Mohd Adzim Khalil Rohin, Sana Javaid Awan, Zubair Sharif, Adnan Yaseen and Abdul Momin Rizwan Ahmad
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(9), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47090718 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 805
Abstract
Background: Syndromic forms of obesity are uncommon, complicated illnesses that include early-onset obesity along with other clinical characteristics such as organ-specific abnormalities, dysmorphic symptoms, and intellectual incapacity. These syndromes frequently have a strong genetic foundation, involving copy number variations, monogenic mutations, and chromosomal [...] Read more.
Background: Syndromic forms of obesity are uncommon, complicated illnesses that include early-onset obesity along with other clinical characteristics such as organ-specific abnormalities, dysmorphic symptoms, and intellectual incapacity. These syndromes frequently have a strong genetic foundation, involving copy number variations, monogenic mutations, and chromosomal abnormalities. Methods: Using terms like “syndromic obesity,” “genetic diagnosis,” and “monogenic obesity,” a comprehensive literature search was conducted to find articles published between 2000 and 2025 in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed research addressing the clinical, molecular, or genetic aspects of syndromic obesity were among the inclusion criteria. Conference abstracts, non-English publications, and research without genetic validation were among the exclusion criteria. The whole genetic, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic domains were thematically synthesized to create a thorough, fact-based story. Research using chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), whole-exome sequencing (WES), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and new long-read sequencing platforms was highlighted. Results: Despite the fact that molecular diagnostics, especially NGS and CMA, have made tremendous progress in identifying pathogenic variants, between 30 and 40 percent of instances of syndromic obesity are still genetically unexplained. One significant issue is the variation in phenotype across people with the same mutation, which suggests the impact of environmental modifiers and epigenetic variables. In addition, differences in access to genetic testing, particularly in areas with limited resources, can make it difficult to diagnose patients in a timely manner. Additionally, recent research emphasizes the possible contribution of gene–environment interactions, gut microbiota, and multi-omic integration to modifying disease expression. Conclusions: Syndromic obesity is still poorly understood in a variety of groups despite significant advancements in technology. Multi-layered genomic investigations, functional genomic integration, and standardized diagnostic frameworks are necessary to close existing gaps. The development of tailored treatment plans, such as gene editing and focused pharmaceutical therapies as well as fair access to cutting-edge diagnostics are essential to improving outcomes for people with syndromic obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanisms and Pathophysiology of Obesity)
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26 pages, 1699 KB  
Review
Improving Biocontrol Potential of Antagonistic Yeasts Against Fungal Pathogen in Postharvest Fruits and Vegetables Through Application of Organic Enhancing Agents
by Gerefa Sefu Edo, Esa Abiso Godana, Guillaume Legrand Ngolong Ngea, Kaili Wang, Qiya Yang and Hongyin Zhang
Foods 2025, 14(17), 3075; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14173075 - 31 Aug 2025
Viewed by 2087
Abstract
Fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy diet, providing vital nutrients and contributing to global food security. Fungal pathogens that interact with fruits and vegetables reduce their quality and shelf life and lead to economic losses and risks to human health through [...] Read more.
Fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy diet, providing vital nutrients and contributing to global food security. Fungal pathogens that interact with fruits and vegetables reduce their quality and shelf life and lead to economic losses and risks to human health through the production of mycotoxins. Chemical fungicides, used to control postharvest pathogens, are posing serious environmental and health risks, driving interest in safer alternative strategies. Biocontrol methods using antagonistic microbes, such as yeasts, are eco-friendly, sustainable, and the most promising, but they often have limited efficacy and specificity in diverse produce. There is growing interest in the innovative enhancement of biocontrol strategies. The present review shows that inducing, enhancing, co-application, encapsulation, and post-application treatments are common enhancement techniques, while environmental, host, and pathogen characteristics, antagonistic microbial traits, and chemical inputs are the major gearing factors for the best application methods. These methods do not involve genetic modification, which is adequate to reduce the proliferation of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) while optimizing antagonistic microbial performance by promoting growth, inducing host resistance, enhancing antifungal properties, improving adhesion, and boosting stress tolerance. Most enhancers fall under groups of nutritional additives, protective carriers, growth stimulants, and encapsulants. Integrating these enhancers and best methods promises reduced postharvest losses, supports sustainable agriculture, and addresses economic losses and food security challenges. This study highlights the role of organic and natural elicitors, their application methods, their mechanisms in improving BCAs (Biological Control Agents), and their overall efficiency. This review concisely compiles recent strategies, calling for further research to revolutionize fungal pathogen management, reduce food waste, and promote responsible farming practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture for Food and Nutrition Security)
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10 pages, 1319 KB  
Article
Translocation of Insecticidal Bt Protein in Transgrafted Plants
by Arisa Ando, Hitomi Ohkubo, Hisae Maki, Takumi Nishiuchi, Takumi Ogawa, Tomofumi Mochizuki, Daisaku Ohta, Hiroaki Kodama and Taira Miyahara
BioTech 2025, 14(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/biotech14030064 - 25 Aug 2025
Viewed by 557
Abstract
Transgrafting constitutes a technique involving the integration of genetically modified (GM) and non-GM plant organisms. Typically, edible components derived from non-GM scions are categorized as non-GM food products, attributed to the absence of exogenous genetic material within their respective genomes. Non-GM food status [...] Read more.
Transgrafting constitutes a technique involving the integration of genetically modified (GM) and non-GM plant organisms. Typically, edible components derived from non-GM scions are categorized as non-GM food products, attributed to the absence of exogenous genetic material within their respective genomes. Non-GM food status could be compromised if proteins translocated across the graft interface. We investigated the movement of insecticidal Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crystal proteins, widely utilized in GM crop species. Tobacco plants engineered to express the Cry1Ab gene exhibited trace levels of Cry1Ab protein accumulation. In transgrafted plants, translocated Cry1Ab protein originating from GM rootstocks was detectable within scion foliar tissues but not within the seeds obtained from the non-GM scion. This result unequivocally demonstrates the capacity for Bt protein translocation from rootstocks to scions yet indicates a constrained distribution confined to scion tissues relatively close to the graft junction. While regulatory considerations necessitate a thorough appraisal of potential risks associated with Bt proteins, the results shown here facilitate the commercialization of the edible components as non-GM food products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biotechnology Regulation)
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32 pages, 1243 KB  
Review
Soybean Molecular Breeding Through Genome Editing Tools: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
by Chan Yong Kim, Sivabalan Karthik and Hyeran Kim
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1983; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081983 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 831
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max L.) is an essential crop for global food, feed, and industrial applications, but its production is increasingly challenged by climate change and environmental stresses. Traditional breeding and transgenic approaches have contributed to improvements in yield and quality; however, limitations [...] Read more.
Soybean (Glycine max L.) is an essential crop for global food, feed, and industrial applications, but its production is increasingly challenged by climate change and environmental stresses. Traditional breeding and transgenic approaches have contributed to improvements in yield and quality; however, limitations in genetic diversity and regulatory hurdles for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) underscore the need for innovative strategies to address these challenges. Genome editing technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, have revolutionized soybean molecular breeding by enabling precise modifications of genes related to key agronomic traits such as yield, seed composition, and stress tolerance. These advances have accelerated the development of soybean varieties with enhanced nutritional value and adaptability. Recent progress includes improvements in editing efficiency, specificity, and the ability to target multiple genes simultaneously. However, the application of genome editing remains concentrated in a few model cultivars, and challenges persist in optimizing transformation protocols, minimizing off-target effects, and validating edited traits under field conditions. Future directions involve expanding the genetic base, integrating genome editing with synthetic biology, and addressing regulatory and public acceptance issues. Overall, genome editing offers significant potential for sustainable soybean improvement, supporting food security and agricultural resilience in the face of global challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Crop Protection and Agrobiotechnology)
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13 pages, 1807 KB  
Article
Imaging Retroviral RNA Genome Heterodimers Using Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC)
by Eunice C. Chen, Rebecca K. Maldonado and Leslie J. Parent
Viruses 2025, 17(8), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17081112 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 574
Abstract
Retroviruses are single-stranded RNA viruses that package two copies of their positively stranded RNA genomes as a non-covalent dimer into newly formed virions. This process is evolutionarily conserved, and disruption of genome dimerization results in production of non-infectious virus particles. Genome dimers can [...] Read more.
Retroviruses are single-stranded RNA viruses that package two copies of their positively stranded RNA genomes as a non-covalent dimer into newly formed virions. This process is evolutionarily conserved, and disruption of genome dimerization results in production of non-infectious virus particles. Genome dimers can be packaged as homodimers, containing two identical RNAs, or heterodimers, consisting of two genetically distinct copies. Genome dimerization generates genetic diversity, and different retroviruses have preferences for the type of genome dimers packaged into virions. We developed a novel imaging approach to specifically label and detect retroviral genome heterodimers in cells using a modified bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) technique. This method utilizes viral genomes encoding two different RNA stem-loop cassettes that each specifically binds to an RNA-binding protein conjugated to a split fluorophore. When two genetically different genomes are within close proximity, the fluorophore halves come together to reconstitute fluorescence. These BiFC-labeled RNA dimers can be visualized and tracked in living cells and interact with retroviral Gag proteins. This method has the advantage of low background fluorescence and can be applied to the study of dimeric or double-stranded RNAs of viruses and other organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microscopy Methods for Virus Research)
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25 pages, 906 KB  
Review
Evolution and Prognostic Variables of Cystic Fibrosis in Children and Young Adults: A Narrative Review
by Mădălina Andreea Donos, Elena Țarcă, Elena Cojocaru, Viorel Țarcă, Lăcrămioara Ionela Butnariu, Valentin Bernic, Paula Popovici, Solange Tamara Roșu, Mihaela Camelia Tîrnovanu, Nicolae Sebastian Ionescu and Laura Mihaela Trandafir
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1940; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151940 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 700
Abstract
Introduction: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition affecting several organs and systems, including the pancreas, colon, respiratory system, and reproductive system. The detection of a growing number of CFTR variants and genotypes has contributed to an increase in the CF population which, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition affecting several organs and systems, including the pancreas, colon, respiratory system, and reproductive system. The detection of a growing number of CFTR variants and genotypes has contributed to an increase in the CF population which, in turn, has had an impact on the overall statistics regarding the prognosis and outcome of the condition. Given the increase in life expectancy, it is critical to better predict outcomes and prognosticate in CF. Thus, each person’s choice to aggressively treat specific disease components can be more appropriate and tailored, further increasing survival. The objective of our narrative review is to summarize the most recent information concerning the value and significance of clinical parameters in predicting outcomes, such as gender, diabetes, liver and pancreatic status, lung function, radiography, bacteriology, and blood and sputum biomarkers of inflammation and disease, and how variations in these parameters affect prognosis from the prenatal stage to maturity. Materials and methods: A methodological search of the available data was performed with regard to prognostic factors in the evolution of CF in children and young adults. We evaluated articles from the PubMed academic search engine using the following search terms: prognostic factors AND children AND cystic fibrosis OR mucoviscidosis. Results: We found that it is crucial to customize CF patients’ care based on their unique clinical and biological parameters, genetics, and related comorbidities. Conclusions: The predictive significance of more dynamic clinical condition markers provides more realistic future objectives to center treatment and targets for each patient. Over the past ten years, improvements in care, diagnostics, and treatment have impacted the prognosis for CF. Although genotyping offers a way to categorize CF to direct research and treatment, it is crucial to understand that a variety of other factors, such as epigenetics, genetic modifiers, environmental factors, and socioeconomic status, can affect CF outcomes. The long-term management of this complicated multisystem condition has been made easier for patients, their families, and physicians by earlier and more accurate identification techniques, evidence-based research, and centralized expert multidisciplinary care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Diagnosis of Inherited/Genetic Diseases)
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19 pages, 3489 KB  
Article
Impact of Nitrogen Fertilisation and Inoculation on Soybean Nodulation, Nitrogen Status, and Yield in a Central European Climate
by Waldemar Helios, Magdalena Serafin-Andrzejewska, Marcin Kozak and Sylwia Lewandowska
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1654; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151654 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 601
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) cultivation is expanding in Central Europe due to the development of early-maturing cultivars and growing demand for plant-based protein produced without the use of genetically modified organisms. However, nitrogen (N) management remains a major challenge in temperate [...] Read more.
Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) cultivation is expanding in Central Europe due to the development of early-maturing cultivars and growing demand for plant-based protein produced without the use of genetically modified organisms. However, nitrogen (N) management remains a major challenge in temperate climates, where variable weather conditions can significantly affect nodulation and yield. This study evaluated the effects of three nitrogen fertilisation doses (0, 30, and 60 kg N·ha−1), applied in the form of ammonium nitrate (34% N) and two commercial rhizobial inoculants—HiStick Soy (containing Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain 532C) and Nitragina (including a Polish strain of B. japonicum)—on nodulation, nitrogen uptake, and seed yield. A three-year field experiment (2017–2019) was conducted in southwestern Poland using a two-factor randomized complete block design. Nodulation varied significantly across years, with the highest values recorded under favourable early-season moisture and reduced during drought. In the first year, inoculation with HiStick Soy significantly increased nodule number and seed yield compared to Nitragina and the uninoculated control. Nitrogen fertilisation consistently improved seed yield, although it had no significant effect on nodulation. The highest nitrogen use efficiency was observed with moderate nitrogen input (30 kg N·ha−1) combined with inoculation. These findings highlight the importance of integrating effective rhizobial inoculants with optimized nitrogen fertilisation to improve soybean productivity and nitrogen efficiency under variable temperate climate conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies to Enhance Nutrient Use Efficiency and Crop Nutrition)
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13 pages, 4134 KB  
Communication
An Improved Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation Method for an Important Fresh Fruit: Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa)
by Chun-Lan Piao, Mengdou Ding, Yongbin Gao, Tao Song, Ying Zhu and Min-Long Cui
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2353; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152353 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 2409
Abstract
Genetic transformation is an essential tool for investigating gene function and editing genomes. Kiwifruit, recognized as a significant global fresh fruit crop, holds considerable economic and nutritional importance. However, current genetic transformation techniques for kiwifruit are impeded by low efficiency, lengthy culture durations [...] Read more.
Genetic transformation is an essential tool for investigating gene function and editing genomes. Kiwifruit, recognized as a significant global fresh fruit crop, holds considerable economic and nutritional importance. However, current genetic transformation techniques for kiwifruit are impeded by low efficiency, lengthy culture durations (a minimum of six months), and substantial labor requirements. In this research, we established an efficient system for shoot regeneration and the stable genetic transformation of the ‘Hayward’ cultivar, utilizing leaf explants in conjunction with two strains of Agrobacterium that harbor the expression vector pBI121-35S::GFP, which contains the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene as a visible marker within the T-DNA region. Our results show that 93.3% of leaf explants responded positively to the regeneration medium, producing multiple independent adventitious shoots around the explants within a six-week period. Furthermore, over 71% of kanamycin-resistant plantlets exhibited robust GFP expression, and the entire transformation process was completed within four months of culture. Southern blot analysis confirmed the stable integration of GFP into the genome, while RT-PCR and fluorescence microscopy validated the sustained expression of GFP in mature plants. This efficient protocol for regeneration and transformation provides a solid foundation for micropropagation and the enhancement of desirable traits in kiwifruit through overexpression and gene silencing techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Transformation and Genome Editing)
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