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Search Results (233)

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Keywords = hepatic carbohydrate metabolism

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21 pages, 4111 KB  
Article
Aspalathin-Rich Rooibos Tea Extract Regulates Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in High-Fat Diet Fed Mice
by Xing Li, Juan He, Khalid S. Ibrahim, Michal R. Baran, James Reilly, Christo J. F. Muller, Johan Louw, Hui-Rong Jiang and Xinhua Shu
Nutrients 2026, 18(15), 2452; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18152452 - 27 Jul 2026
Viewed by 222
Abstract
Background: Hepatic lipid metabolism disorder has been linked to a wide range of diseases. Aspalathin is a flavonoid enriched in rooibos tea and has shown capacity to protect against hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress and inflammation. In the current study, we investigated the functional role [...] Read more.
Background: Hepatic lipid metabolism disorder has been linked to a wide range of diseases. Aspalathin is a flavonoid enriched in rooibos tea and has shown capacity to protect against hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress and inflammation. In the current study, we investigated the functional role of aspalathin in regulating liver metabolism and gut microbiota in the context of a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods: Male mice were fed a control diet or HFD, then HFD-fed animals were treated with or without aspalathin-rich extract (ASE). Hepatic neutral lipids were detected using oil red O staining and a colorimetric assay. Expression of cholesterol metabolism-, lipogenesis- and fatty acid β-oxidation-associated genes was measured. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic approaches. Results: HFD-fed mice had markedly higher levels of triglycerides and cholesteryl esters and downregulated expression of cholesterol metabolism-, transport- and lipogenesis-related genes in the liver. ASE administration counteracted HFD-induced effects. In addition, HFD altered the composition, diversity and metabolic pathways of the gut microbiota. The richness of beneficial bacteria, particularly the butyrate-producing bacteria, was significantly decreased. The altered metabolic pathways are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids and nucleotides, as well as mitochondrial function. ASE treatment reversed most of the alterations back to the characteristics of the control group. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated the potential of ASE improving liver lipid metabolism and gut microbiota in the scenario of a high-fat diet, providing insights into future studies on the mechanism of ASE regulating lipid metabolism disorder. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Dietary Polyphenols on Metabolic Syndrome)
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29 pages, 42469 KB  
Article
Medicinally Tuned Pyrimidine–Oxadiazole Hybrids: Synthetic Development, Enzyme-Targeted Evaluation, In Vivo Toxicological Assessment and Computational Investigations Against Diabetes Mellitus
by Shifa Felemban and M. M. Khowdiary
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19071085 - 15 Jul 2026
Viewed by 283
Abstract
Backgroud: The growing prevalence of diabetes mellitus necessitates the development of safe and effective inhibitors of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, particularly α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Methods: In this study, a series of pyrimidine–oxadiazole derivatives (1–10) was synthesized and structurally characterized using elemental analysis, HREI-MS, and 1 [...] Read more.
Backgroud: The growing prevalence of diabetes mellitus necessitates the development of safe and effective inhibitors of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, particularly α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Methods: In this study, a series of pyrimidine–oxadiazole derivatives (1–10) was synthesized and structurally characterized using elemental analysis, HREI-MS, and 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy. The compounds were evaluated for in vitro inhibitory activity against both enzymes, with acarbose as the reference drug. Results: IC50 values ranged from 6.70 ± 0.20 to 21.10 ± 0.10 μM for α-amylase and 7.10 ± 0.20 to 21.80 ± 0.40 μM for α-glucosidase. Compounds 2, 3, and 6 displayed superior dual inhibitory activity compared to acarbose (IC50 = 10.10 ± 0.20 and 10.50 ± 0.10 μM, respectively). Structure–activity relationship analysis revealed that electronic effects of aromatic substitutions significantly influenced enzyme inhibition. Molecular docking supported the experimental findings by demonstrating stable binding interactions within the enzyme active sites. Preliminary safety profiling in male Wistar rats showed no observable behavioral changes, hematological abnormalities, or hepatic and renal dysfunction following repeated administration of the lead compound. Conclusions: These results highlight pyrimidine–oxadiazole derivatives as promising and well-tolerated dual enzyme inhibitors for further antidiabetic drug development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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26 pages, 1495 KB  
Review
Metabolic Responses to Exercise and Nutritional Strategies in Type 1 Diabetes Using Automated Insulin Delivery Systems: A Narrative Review
by Desirée Victoria-Montesinos, Inmaculada Llopis-Alonso, Ana María García-Muñoz and María Teresa Mercader-Ros
Metabolites 2026, 16(7), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16070437 - 23 Jun 2026
Viewed by 336
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have improved the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D), but exercise and nutrition remain challenging because they rapidly alter glucose flux, substrate oxidation, hepatic glucose output, insulin requirements, and fuel availability. This narrative review aimed to synthesize [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have improved the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D), but exercise and nutrition remain challenging because they rapidly alter glucose flux, substrate oxidation, hepatic glucose output, insulin requirements, and fuel availability. This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the interaction between AID systems, physical activity, and nutritional strategies from a metabolism-oriented perspective. Methods: A narrative bibliographic approach was used to integrate evidence from clinical trials, observational studies, technical studies, consensus statements, and reviews involving people with T1D across different life stages, including pediatric, adolescent, adult, and pregnancy-related contexts, when available. The review focused on AID systems, exercise physiology, nutritional strategies, meal announcement, bolus adjustment, dual-hormone systems, metabolic biomarkers, and emerging metabolomic approaches. Results: AID systems generally improve time in range and reduce hypoglycemia across several user groups, although most exercise- and nutrition-specific evidence comes from adult and pediatric/adolescent cohorts rather than pregnancy-specific exercise studies. Exercise-related glucose responses remain highly dependent on user input, exercise modality, insulin on board, meal timing, and metabolic state. Planned exercise announcement, prandial bolus reduction before postprandial activity, and individualized carbohydrate intake remain key strategies. Biomarkers such as lactate, ketone bodies, non-esterified fatty acids, and counter-regulatory hormones may help explain interindividual variability and support future personalization. Conclusions: Nutrition and exercise management in AID users should be interpreted as a dynamic metabolic interface among exogenous insulin, endogenous counter-regulation, substrate availability, and algorithmic control. Emerging approaches, including activity sensors, adaptive algorithms, dual-hormone systems, digital twins, and metabolomics-informed personalization, may improve safety and reduce user burden, but several remain exploratory and require further validation in diverse free-living conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 368 KB  
Article
Effects of 12-Week Sorghum Consumption on Visceral Fat Area and Metabolic Parameters in Japanese Adults: An Exploratory Single-Arm Trial
by Hitomi Miyazaki, Masumi Nagae, Akiko Isa, Yuko Takano, Hiroshi Uchida and Kuniyoshi Shimizu
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1884; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121884 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 557
Abstract
Background: Visceral fat accumulation is strongly associated with metabolic disorders, particularly in Japanese adults who accumulate visceral fat even at lower body mass index levels. Sorghum is a whole grain rich in resistant starch and polyphenols, which may influence visceral fat area (VFA). [...] Read more.
Background: Visceral fat accumulation is strongly associated with metabolic disorders, particularly in Japanese adults who accumulate visceral fat even at lower body mass index levels. Sorghum is a whole grain rich in resistant starch and polyphenols, which may influence visceral fat area (VFA). This exploratory study aimed to investigate the effects of 12-week sorghum consumption on VFA and metabolic parameters in Japanese adults with visceral fat accumulation. Methods: This single-arm intervention trial included adults aged 20–60 years with VFA ≥ 100 cm2 and no ongoing medical treatment. Participants consumed cooked sorghum (80 g/day, dry weight) for 12 weeks. Anthropometric variables, VFA, blood pressure, and blood biomarkers were assessed before and after the intervention. Dietary intake was evaluated using a three-day food record. Pre- and post-intervention values were compared using paired t-tests. Results: Nine participants completed the study. VFA significantly decreased after 12 weeks of sorghum consumption (p = 0.02). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels showed a non-significant reduction, while other metabolic and hepatic biomarkers remained stable. No adverse changes were observed in dietary intake or physical activity. Eight of nine participants exhibited reductions in VFA. Conclusions: Daily sorghum consumption may contribute to reductions in VFA and improvements in liver-related biomarkers in Japanese adults with visceral fat accumulation. These findings provide preliminary evidence that partially replacing major carbohydrate sources with sorghum may support visceral fat management. Further confirmation in randomized controlled trials is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Obesity)
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17 pages, 1247 KB  
Article
A Single-Food Substitution Strategy (SFSS) Improves Fat Mass and Metabolic Parameters in MASLD: A Prospective Pilot Study
by Nicole Cerabino, Caterina Bonfiglio, Leonilde Bonfrate, Rosanna Donvito, Pasqua Letizia Pesole, Dolores Stabile, Endrit Shahini and Gianluigi Giannelli
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1873; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121873 - 10 Jun 2026
Viewed by 471
Abstract
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and altered body composition. Although dietary intervention is a cornerstone of treatment, complex or calorie-restricted regimens may reduce long-term adherence. This study evaluated the effects of a pragmatic, short-term [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and altered body composition. Although dietary intervention is a cornerstone of treatment, complex or calorie-restricted regimens may reduce long-term adherence. This study evaluated the effects of a pragmatic, short-term intervention that involved replacing one daily carbohydrate serving with cruciferous vegetables on body composition and metabolic parameters in individuals with obesity and MASLD. Associations between changes in fat mass and vitamin D and follistatin levels were also explored. Methods: In this prospective pilot study, 44 adults with obesity and MASLD followed a two-month intervention, substituting one daily serving of carbohydrate-rich foods with 200 g of cruciferous vegetables, without prescribed caloric restriction. Anthropometric, bioimpedance, biochemical, and FibroScan assessments were performed at baseline and post-intervention. Changes were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Spearman’s correlation analysis, and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models adjusted for confounding factors. Results: The intervention was associated with a significant reduction in fat mass (−4.86 kg, p < 0.001), corresponding to an average relative decrease of approximately 12% along with improvements in metabolic and hepatic parameters. Changes in fat mass were inversely correlated with changes in vitamin D (rho = −0.33, p = 0.035), fat-free mass (rho = −0.37, p = 0.018), and follistatin (rho = −0.24, p = 0.143). In multivariate GEE models, the intervention remained independently associated with fat mass reduction (β = −5.190, p < 0.001). Conclusions: A simple carbohydrate-to-vegetable substitution without prescribed caloric restriction was associated with improvements in body composition and metabolic health. These exploratory findings suggest that pragmatic dietary modifications may provide clinically meaningful metabolic benefits and support the feasibility of minimal dietary substitution strategies in this population. However, causal inferences remain limited by a single-arm pilot design and require confirmation in larger randomized controlled trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetarian Dietary Patterns in the Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome)
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20 pages, 1034 KB  
Review
Exercise-Related Glycemic Fluctuations in Type 1 Diabetes: Mechanisms and Integrated Insulin–Carbohydrate Strategies in the Context of Diabetes Technologies
by Filomena Mazzeo, Gabriele Ferrara, Fiorenzo Moscatelli, Antonietta Monda, Antonietta Messina, Maria Ruberto, Nicola Mancini, Raffaele Ivan Cincione, Gianluca Russo, Salvatore Allocca, Marco La Marra, Pasquale Perrone, Girolamo Di Maio, Maria Casillo, Giovanni Messina, Mario Ruggiero, Maria Giovanna Tafuri and Vincenzo Monda
Endocrines 2026, 7(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines7020022 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 1428
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Regular physical exercise is strongly recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) because of its beneficial effects on cardiovascular fitness, insulin sensitivity, metabolic control, and overall health. Nevertheless, participation in physical activity remains limited, largely due to the fear [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Regular physical exercise is strongly recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) because of its beneficial effects on cardiovascular fitness, insulin sensitivity, metabolic control, and overall health. Nevertheless, participation in physical activity remains limited, largely due to the fear of exercise-induced hypoglycemia and glycemic instability. Glycemic responses to exercise in T1DM are influenced by the interaction between exercise modality, circulating insulin levels, nutritional status, and diabetes technologies. Continuous aerobic exercise, resistance training, high-intensity interval exercise, and mixed intermittent activities elicit distinct metabolic and hormonal responses, resulting in heterogeneous glycemic trajectories. This narrative review aimed to provide a clinically oriented synthesis of the physiological mechanisms underlying exercise-related glycemic fluctuations in T1DM and to discuss integrated insulin- and carbohydrate-based strategies to support safer participation in physical activity in the context of modern diabetes technologies. Methods: A structured narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and complementary searches in Google Scholar to identify experimental studies, observational studies, systematic reviews, consensus statements, and clinical guidelines focused on exercise-related glycemic responses in individuals with T1DM. Only articles published in English were considered. Evidence was selected and synthesized according to relevance to exercise modality, insulin therapy strategies, carbohydrate management, and diabetes technologies, including continuous glucose monitoring, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, and automated insulin delivery systems. The final narrative synthesis was based on 44 selected studies, reviews, consensus statements, and guidance documents considered most relevant to the objectives of this narrative review. Results: Available evidence indicates that continuous moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is most consistently associated with progressive glucose declines and increased risk of hypoglycemia, particularly when performed in the presence of elevated insulin on board. In contrast, resistance exercise and short-duration high-intensity or anaerobic exercise more frequently induce stable glycemia or transient hyperglycemia through adrenergic stimulation and increased hepatic glucose output. Mixed and intermittent exercise modalities often produce more variable responses depending on exercise sequencing, nutritional status, and insulin exposure. Across studies, integrated adjustment of basal and prandial insulin doses together with individualized carbohydrate supplementation emerged as the most effective strategy to reduce exercise-related glycemic instability. Continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump technologies improved glucose trend awareness and management flexibility; however, physical exercise remains a challenging condition for current automated insulin delivery algorithms and still requires active user-driven decision-making. Conclusions: Exercise management in T1DM should be based on an individualized interpretation of exercise modality, glucose trends, insulin exposure, and nutritional context rather than on fixed glucose thresholds alone. Combining anticipatory insulin adjustments, tailored carbohydrate strategies, and appropriate use of diabetes technologies may substantially reduce glycemic variability and improve confidence toward physical activity participation. Structured education and individualized clinical guidance remain essential to translate physiological knowledge into effective real-world exercise management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Type 1 Diabetes)
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22 pages, 2436 KB  
Article
Antidiabetic Effects of Ecklonia cava and Dieckol via DPP-IV Inhibition and Glucose Transport Regulation
by Indyaswan T. Suryaningtyas, Nabila Shafura, Ratih Pangestuti, Won-Kyo Jung and Jae-Young Je
Mar. Drugs 2026, 24(5), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/md24050174 - 12 May 2026
Viewed by 1167
Abstract
Brown seaweeds are recognized for their rich content of phlorotannins with promising antidiabetic properties through multi-targeted modulation of glucose metabolism. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of the ethyl acetate fraction of Ecklonia cava (EC-ETAC) and its major phlorotannin, dieckol, focusing on inhibition [...] Read more.
Brown seaweeds are recognized for their rich content of phlorotannins with promising antidiabetic properties through multi-targeted modulation of glucose metabolism. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of the ethyl acetate fraction of Ecklonia cava (EC-ETAC) and its major phlorotannin, dieckol, focusing on inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, intestinal glucose absorption, dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) activity, and hepatic glucose metabolism. EC-ETAC potently inhibited α-glucosidase (IC50 = 2.2 ± 0.2 µg/mL) and α-amylase (IC50 = 41.0 ± 1.2 µg/mL), outperforming acarbose by 26-fold and 6-fold, respectively. Pure dieckol showed strong activity with IC50 values of 2.213 ± 0.04 µM (α-glucosidase) and 156.87 ± 0.124 µM (α-amylase). In differentiated Caco-2 cells, both EC-ETAC and dieckol downregulated SGLT1 and GLUT2 protein expression to ~0.5-fold of control and suppressed 2-NBDG glucose uptake by 46–53% over 120 min, effects not seen with acarbose. Dieckol inhibited DPP-IV activity (IC50 = 12.12 ± 0.021 µM), reducing in situ activity to 53.89% at 25 µM without changing DPP-IV protein levels. Molecular docking revealed high-affinity binding of dieckol to DPP-IV (−10.396 kcal/mol), directly occluding the catalytic triad (Ser630, His740). In insulin-resistant HepG2 cells, dieckol restored glucose uptake to 108.97% of control via AMPK activation (1.21-fold), GLUT2 normalization (0.84-fold), and PGC-1α recalibration (0.96-fold), matching or surpassing 1 mM metformin. These results demonstrate dual-inhibition mechanism combined with hepatic AMPK restoration, establishing dieckol as a promising marine-derived multi-targeted agent for T2DM management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine-Derived Compounds in Metabolic Regulation and Chronic Disease)
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17 pages, 5314 KB  
Article
Chinese Yam Polysaccharide Alleviates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis After Antibiotic Pretreatment
by Yushun Qian, Fuhao Leng, Yan Yu, Yi Wu, Jiaxin Zhang, Lanlan Cheng, Mingyue Shen and Jianhua Xie
Foods 2026, 15(10), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15101633 - 8 May 2026
Viewed by 620
Abstract
This study investigated whether the therapeutic efficacy of Chinese yam polysaccharide (CYP) against ulcerative colitis (UC) depends on an intact gut microbiota. A dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model was established, and one treatment group received broad-spectrum antibiotics (ABXs) before CYP administration [...] Read more.
This study investigated whether the therapeutic efficacy of Chinese yam polysaccharide (CYP) against ulcerative colitis (UC) depends on an intact gut microbiota. A dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model was established, and one treatment group received broad-spectrum antibiotics (ABXs) before CYP administration to deplete the intestinal microbiota. CYP markedly attenuated colonic injury, reduced disease activity, and suppressed inflammatory mediators under both microbiota-intact and microbiota-depleted conditions. CYP also enhanced intestinal barrier integrity, as evidenced by reduced serum endotoxin levels and increased expression of MUC-2, Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1. In addition, CYP improved hepatic antioxidant status by increasing GSH-Px and catalase activities and decreasing malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, CYP reduced the activation of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, with similar trends observed under microbiota-depleted conditions. Microbiota profiling showed that CYP partially corrected DSS-induced dysbiosis, whereas the ABX + CYP group exhibited distinct microbial patterns with enrichment of carbohydrate-related metabolic pathways predicted by PICRUSt2. Collectively, these findings suggest that CYP retains protective efficacy after antibiotic pretreatment, indicating that its effects may not be exclusively dependent on gut microbiota modulation, possibly involving direct actions on immune and intestinal epithelial cells. Full article
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19 pages, 3422 KB  
Article
Protective Effects of Cashew Apple Bagasse and Its Hydroethanolic Extract Against Fatty Liver in Rats
by Susana Hernández-Pérez, Víctor Hugo Oidor-Chan, Jonathan Puente Rivera, Vicente Castrejón-Téllez, Rosa María Oliart-Ros, Elizabeth Carreón-Torres, Luz Ibarra-Lara, Yanet Chávez-Reyes, Diana Catalina Castro-Rodríguez, Patricia Guillermina Mendoza-García, Javier Flores-Estrada and Abril Ramírez-Higuera
Antioxidants 2026, 15(5), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15050592 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 1111
Abstract
Cashew apple bagasse (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an agro-industrial byproduct rich in fiber and phytochemicals, yet its effects on diet-induced fatty liver remain insufficiently characterized. This study evaluated the protective effects of cashew apple bagasse (CAB) and its hydroethanolic extract (HECAB) in [...] Read more.
Cashew apple bagasse (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an agro-industrial byproduct rich in fiber and phytochemicals, yet its effects on diet-induced fatty liver remain insufficiently characterized. This study evaluated the protective effects of cashew apple bagasse (CAB) and its hydroethanolic extract (HECAB) in rats fed a high-fat, high-carbohydrate (HFHC) diet. The proximate composition of CAB and the phenolic profile and antioxidant capacity of HECAB were characterized. Male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups and fed for 19 weeks with a standard diet, an HFHC diet, or an HFHC diet supplemented with CAB or HECAB. Anthropometric, biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical, and immunoblot analyses were performed. HECAB showed high phenolic content and marked radical-scavenging activity, and untargeted UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis yielded 12 putative secondary metabolite annotations (levels 3–4) based on accurate mass, isotope distributions, MS/MS fragmentation patterns, and predefined acceptance criteria. Relative to the standard diet group, the HFHC diet induced metabolic and hepatic alterations consistent with early-stage MASLD. Compared with HFHC, both CAB and HECAB reduced serum insulin and HOMA-IR, attenuated hepatic steatosis, increased SOD1 and CAT, and reduced NF-κB, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, whereas GPx1 remained unchanged. Both interventions also enhanced NRF2 and HO-1 compared to HFHC, with stronger nuclear positivity in the HECAB group, while CAB showed the clearest association with IL-10 restoration. These findings are consistent with modulation of antioxidant defense- and inflammatory-related pathways in early-stage MASLD and support further investigation of cashew apple bagasse as a valorized functional ingredient. However, because classical oxidative damage markers were not measured, these results should not be interpreted as direct evidence of reduced oxidative stress. In addition, the detected metabolites should be interpreted as putative annotations rather than definitive compound identifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Antioxidants from Agri-Food Wastes, 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 2877 KB  
Article
Red Ginseng Extract Intake and Changes in Metabolite Profiles, Gut Microbiota, and Immune Responses of Healthy Rats
by Madhuri Sangar, Seong-Hwa Song, Saoraya Chanmuang, Dong-Shin Kim, Gwang-Ju Jang, Hyeon-Jeong Lee, Young Kyoung Rhee, Hee-Do Hong, Chang-Won Cho and Hyun-Jin Kim
Nutrients 2026, 18(9), 1462; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18091462 - 2 May 2026
Viewed by 1821
Abstract
Background: Red ginseng (RG) exhibits enhanced bioactivity compared to white ginseng. Although the beneficial effects of RG have been well investigated in disease models, its impacts on the metabolome, gut microbiota, and immune response under normal physiological conditions remain poorly understood. Methods: Rats [...] Read more.
Background: Red ginseng (RG) exhibits enhanced bioactivity compared to white ginseng. Although the beneficial effects of RG have been well investigated in disease models, its impacts on the metabolome, gut microbiota, and immune response under normal physiological conditions remain poorly understood. Methods: Rats were randomized into three groups: control (normal diet), RL (low-dose RGE at 100 mg/kg body weight), and RH (high-dose RGE at 200 mg/kg body weight). After five weeks, metabolite profiles of the blood, liver, kidney, and large intestinal contents were analyzed and the gut microbiota was assessed. Splenocytes were isolated and treated with or without ethanol-precipitated carbohydrate fractions isolated from RGE or from intestinal contents, and IL-12 secretion was measured. Additionally, the correlations among biochemical characteristics, metabolites, gut microbiota, and immune markers were analyzed. Results: RGE intake decreased plasma triglycerides, liver function biomarkers, and epididymal adipose tissue weight. It also altered metabolite profiles for plasma, liver, kidney, and intestinal contents and increased the hepatic NAD+/NADH ratio. RGE intake reduced the populations of harmful bacteria, whereas it increased Lachnospiraceae. RGE intake enhanced IL-12 production in splenocytes. Furthermore, splenocytes treated with carbohydrates isolated from the small and large intestinal contents of RGE-fed rats secreted higher IL-12 levels than those of the control group. Conclusions: RGE modulated the gut microbiota, metabolism, and immune responses in healthy rats under normal physiological conditions, warranting further investigation into the underlying mechanisms. Full article
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25 pages, 3976 KB  
Article
Whole-Genome-Guided Functional Characterization of Limosilactobacillus fermentum SHY0006 Reveals Hypolipidemic Activity and Improvement in Insulin Resistance 
by Zhengyang Xu, Zihan Sun, Feiyang Wang, Qingyang Han, Shuyu Li, Chunxu Xue, Yanhui Li, Dong Liu, Jun Cai and Haiyan Sun
Foods 2026, 15(9), 1508; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15091508 - 27 Apr 2026
Viewed by 667
Abstract
Limosilactobacillus fermentum SHY0006 was isolated from Miao sour soup, a traditional fermented food from Guizhou, China, and systematically evaluated for its safety, metabolic functionality, and stress adaptability using phenotypic assays combined with whole-genome sequencing. SHY0006 exhibited no hemolytic activity and harbored no detectable [...] Read more.
Limosilactobacillus fermentum SHY0006 was isolated from Miao sour soup, a traditional fermented food from Guizhou, China, and systematically evaluated for its safety, metabolic functionality, and stress adaptability using phenotypic assays combined with whole-genome sequencing. SHY0006 exhibited no hemolytic activity and harbored no detectable virulence-associated or acquired antibiotic resistance genes, supporting its safety profile. Functionally, SHY0006 improved lipid metabolism and insulin resistance in both cell and animal models. In hyperlipidemic mice, hepatic triglyceride accumulation was markedly reduced, accompanied by favorable modulation of serum lipid parameters, including LDL-C, HDL-C, and free fatty acids. In diabetic mice, the strain improved insulin tolerance test (ITT) performance, indicating enhanced systemic insulin sensitivity. Whole-genome analysis revealed complete biosynthetic pathways for riboflavin and folate, along with extensive carbohydrate utilization capacity, highlighting its metabolic versatility. In addition, SHY0006 exhibited strong tolerance to environmental stress, supporting its potential viability in food matrices and gastrointestinal conditions. Collectively, these findings suggest that SHY0006 is a safe and metabolically versatile probiotic candidate with potential applications in functional foods targeting metabolic health. Full article
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14 pages, 3092 KB  
Article
Fluopyram Induces Multilevel Toxicity in Zebrafish: Insights from Developmental Impairment, Oxidative Stress, and Metabolic Disruption
by Ningbo Wang and Yingying Zhong
J. Xenobiot. 2026, 16(2), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox16020069 - 20 Apr 2026
Viewed by 871
Abstract
Fluopyram (FO), a widely used succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicide, poses a potential risk to aquatic ecosystems due to its mitochondrial toxicity in non-target organisms. This study investigated its toxic effects on zebrafish (Danio rerio). Embryos (n = 30 per [...] Read more.
Fluopyram (FO), a widely used succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicide, poses a potential risk to aquatic ecosystems due to its mitochondrial toxicity in non-target organisms. This study investigated its toxic effects on zebrafish (Danio rerio). Embryos (n = 30 per concentration) were exposed to FO (0, 0.375, 0.75, 1.5 mg/L) for 96 h, resulting in concentration-dependent developmental toxicity, including increased malformations, reduced heart rate, and inhibited swimming behavior. Adult zebrafish were chronically exposed to lower concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 mg/L; n = 20 per concentration per replicate) for 28 days. Biochemical analyses across both life stages revealed that FO significantly inhibited succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity and mitochondrial complex II, reduced ATP levels, and induced oxidative stress. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed that FO profoundly perturbed specific metabolic pathways, primarily glutathione metabolism, cytochrome P450-mediated detoxification, and core nutrient metabolism pathways involving carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids. In adults, chronic exposure induced significant hepatotoxicity, evidenced by histopathological damage, altered liver enzyme activities (GPT/GOT), and activation of autophagy and PPAR/FoxO signaling pathways. Our results demonstrate that FO induces multifaceted toxicity in zebrafish, from developmental defects to hepatic metabolic dysfunction, primarily driven by mitochondrial impairment and oxidative stress. This study provides crucial mechanistic hazard data and insights for the ecological risk assessment of SDHI fungicides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecotoxicology)
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16 pages, 3826 KB  
Article
Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Selenium-Enriched Lactobacillus plantarum on Growth, Hepatic Antioxidant Capacity, and Intestinal Microbiota of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
by Chengxu Ruan, Junhao Tang, Xiufang Liu, Junwei Chen, Linxi Cheng and Xucong Lv
Fishes 2026, 11(4), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11040246 - 18 Apr 2026
Viewed by 488
Abstract
This study compared the effects of dietary Lactobacillus plantarum (Lpl) and selenium-enriched L. plantarum (Lpl_se) on the growth, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota of juvenile largemouth bass (initial weight 12.50 ± 0.81 g). Following a 58-day trial in an indoor rearing system, [...] Read more.
This study compared the effects of dietary Lactobacillus plantarum (Lpl) and selenium-enriched L. plantarum (Lpl_se) on the growth, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota of juvenile largemouth bass (initial weight 12.50 ± 0.81 g). Following a 58-day trial in an indoor rearing system, data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD test. Results showed that both Lpl and Lpl_se significantly improved growth versus the control (Weight Gain Rate: 379.82% and 387.18% vs. 326.56%; p < 0.05). Both supplements significantly elevated hepatic antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH) and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p < 0.05). Notably, these macroscopic parameters showed no statistical differences between the two probiotic treatments. However, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed distinct metabolic strategies. While both treatments enriched intestinal Lactobacillus, Lpl_se uniquely upregulated energy-harvesting and synthetic pathways (glycolysis and lysine biosynthesis), corroborated by increased intestinal glycogen synthase activity. In conclusion, while selenium enrichment did not further improve macroscopic growth statistically, it differentially modulated the intestinal functional profile towards enhanced carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, presenting an alternative host nutrient assimilation strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Supplementation in Aquaculture)
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25 pages, 2320 KB  
Article
A Descriptive Analysis of Mediterranean Diet Meal Plans Using the Dietary Inflammatory Index, Dietary Antioxidant Index, and Dietary Lipid Indices: Implications for Dietary Intervention for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Research
by Melvin Bernardino, Claudio Tiribelli and Natalia Rosso
Nutrients 2026, 18(8), 1281; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18081281 - 17 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1253
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common chronic liver disorder linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Nutrition plays a central role in modulating hepatic lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation, yet practical, evidence-based dietary strategies remain limited. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common chronic liver disorder linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Nutrition plays a central role in modulating hepatic lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation, yet practical, evidence-based dietary strategies remain limited. This study aimed to develop Mediterranean diet-based meal plans with varying macronutrient compositions and to characterize their nutritional profiles, as well as to evaluate them using established nutritional indices and diet score calculations, such as the Dietary Inflammatory Index, Dietary Antioxidant Index, and dietary lipid indices. Methods: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) from various academic and professional organizations were reviewed to assess current non-pharmacological treatments for MASLD, with a focus on determining whether the Mediterranean diet is the most recommended dietary pattern. Traditional, low-carbohydrate, and low-fat MedDiet patterns were translated into food-based meal plans. A 7-day meal plan was developed and analyzed for nutrient composition, then evaluated using the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI), Dietary Lipophilic Index (DLI), and Dietary Lipophilic Load (DLL). A Western diet (WD) that is characterized by ultra-processed food (UPF) was included as a comparative reference. Results: The validated dietary score calculations showed that all MedDiet patterns demonstrated consistently low DII scores (−2.00 to −2.81) and high DAI scores (3 to 20.03), whereas the WD showed high DII scores (5.0 to 6.09) and low DAI scores (−12.47 to −17.99). Despite these variations in macronutrients, the menu developed in the study on three MedDiet patterns showed negative DII and positive DAI scores. When comparing the traditional MedDiet with the WD, which have similar macronutrient distributions, the WD was characterized by less favorable DII and DAI scores. Conclusions: This study provides a descriptive, guideline-informed framework for Mediterranean diet-based meal plans with varying macronutrient compositions. Utilizing DII, DAI, DLI, and DLL offers a potential framework for designing dietary interventions. Further validation through clinical studies is needed to justify the potential for practical and digital translation. Nevertheless, the study provides initial insights that may inform future research on nutritional approaches for MASLD integrating dietary indices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietetic Management in MASLD (Evidence-Based Therapeutic Strategies))
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Article
Divergent Liver and Kidney Metabolic Responses to Ketogenic, High-Fat, and Sucrose-Enriched Diets in Mice
by Giulia Grillo, Nathalie Vega, Agnieszka Zaczek, Anna Selmi, Stéphanie Chanon, Aurelie Vieille Marchiset, Alessandra Santillo, Aneta Balcerczyk, Maura Strigini and Luciano Pirola
Nutrients 2026, 18(7), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18071141 - 1 Apr 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Feeding with a ketogenic diet (KD), nutritionally devoid of carbohydrates, may be metabolically beneficial. The administration of a KD to mice after previous feeding with a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet (HFD) induced weight loss, ketonemia, and glycemic normalization. Here, to compare organ-specific responses [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Feeding with a ketogenic diet (KD), nutritionally devoid of carbohydrates, may be metabolically beneficial. The administration of a KD to mice after previous feeding with a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet (HFD) induced weight loss, ketonemia, and glycemic normalization. Here, to compare organ-specific responses to KD, we analyzed lipogenic and gluconeogenic enzymes and genes in the liver and kidney of mice submitted to KD versus (i) HFD or (ii) a saccharose-enriched diet. Methods: Liver and kidney were from (i) mice fed a HFD followed by an 8-week switch to a chow diet (CD), KD continuation of HFD, and (ii) mice submitted to CD, KD, or a saccharose-enriched diet for 1 week. Protein expression levels were determined by Western blotting, and gene expression by qPCR. Hepatic lipid accumulation was visualized by red oil-O. Results: Switch to a KD led to a simultaneous decrease in lipogenic FASN (Fatty Acid Synthase), ACC (Acetyl-CoenzymeA Carboxylase), and its phosphorylated form (pACC-Ser79) in the liver and kidney. In parallel, we observed increased activating phosphorylation of AMPK, the kinase responsible for ACC phosphorylation. In the liver, but not in the kidney, the gluconeogenic rate-limiting enzyme G6Pase (Glucose 6-phosphatase) was repressed under a KD. The switch to a CD significantly reduced hepatic fat accumulation, while a switch to a KD did not allow a significant reversal of hepatic fat accumulation, suggesting resilience to hepatic fat loss under KD. Comparison of a KD versus saccharose-supplemented diet showed an opposite expression pattern of lipogenic enzymes. Conclusions: Administration of KD after previous HFD induced convergent repression of lipogenic enzymes in the liver and kidney, and specific repression of G6Pase in the liver, suggesting a role for kidney gluconeogenesis during KD. KD versus saccharose-supplemented diet had opposite effects on lipogenesis and glycemic control, but both induced loss of lean body mass. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Obesity)
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