Search Results (880)

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor among women. It is a significant health and social issue affecting 2.3 million women worldwide. Breast cancer is caused by various factors, including gender, age, race, genetics, hormonal balance, obesity, alcohol and many others. A crucial issue related to breast cancer is the impact of diet on the development of the disease. Dietary fats play a key role. Saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids increase the risk of breast cancer, while polyunsaturated fatty acids have a protective effect. A high-protein diet reduces the risk of breast cancer and improves prognosis among patients. The role of carbohydrates remains unclear, but women may benefit from reducing their intake of high glycemic index foods. Among the macronutrients influencing the development and progression of breast cancer are calcium and magnesium. Adopting a Mediterranean diet may offer benefits. Among the factors influencing the development of breast cancer, the gastrointestinal microbiota is also noteworthy. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, support treatment, reduce side effects and improve patients’ quality of life. Chronic stress also contributes to the development of breast cancer by affecting the nervous, hormonal and immune systems, disrupting the body’s homeostasis. Full article

The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, causes profound metabolic adaptations that go beyond energy production and affect endocrine function and thyroid hormone regulation. By shifting the body’s primary fuel source from glucose to fatty acids and ketones, the KD alters insulin signaling, inflammation levels and deiodinase activity, which together affect thyroid hormone metabolism. While this metabolic shift offers potential benefits such as improved insulin sensitivity and reduced systemic inflammation, it also raises concerns about reduced triiodothyronine (T3) levels and altered hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis dynamics. This review explores the mechanisms by which the KD affects thyroid function, highlighting both the potential therapeutic benefits and associated risks. Special attention is given to how genetic predispositions, gut microbiota composition and sex-based hormonal differences influence thyroid adaptation to a KD. In addition, there are indications that the influence of the KD on cell metabolism could have therapeutic potential in conditions such as autoimmune thyroid diseases and thyroid cancer. Understanding the delicate balance between the benefits and risks of KD for thyroid health is essential for optimizing its clinical applications and defining individual nutritional strategies. Full article

Fish reproduction requires suitable salinity and temperature, as well as sufficient energy. This study investigated temperature and salinity effects on ovarian development of Lateolabrax maculatus and energy metabolism differences between reproduction and growth. Two salinities (4‰ and 30‰) and temperatures (18 ± 1 °C and 30 ± 1 °C) formed four treatments: SWNT (30‰, 30 ± 1 °C), SWLT (30‰, 18 ± 1 °C), FWLT (4‰, 18 ± 1 °C), and FWNT (4‰, 30 ± 1 °C). GSI and sex hormones (FSH, LH, E2, and 17α,20β-DHP) were measured. Transcriptome analysis explored how temperature and salinity regulate ovarian development in L. maculatus, while integrated transcriptomic and targeted energy metabolomic analyses revealed energy metabolism differences between ovary and muscle during this process. The results showed that low salinity (4‰) and low temperature (18 ± 1 °C) synergistically promoted ovarian development in the FWLT group, as indicated by a significant increase in GSI and elevated levels of key sex hormones (FSH, LH, E2, and 17α,20β-DHP). Transcriptome analysis showed that low temperature activated pathways involved in steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation, and meiosis, and genes such as ADCY6, PRKACB, CPEB4, FZD7-A, and CCND2 were significantly upregulated. Salinity changes mainly affected amino acid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, and the insulin signaling pathway. Genes such as PCSK9 and CKM may regulate ovarian development by regulating hormone synthesis and energy metabolism. Comprehensive transcriptome and metabolome analyses show that glycolysis is downregulated and oxidative phosphorylation is upregulated in the ovary, suggesting that ovarian oogenesis tends to be energized by aerobic metabolism. The TCA cycle may be used more for providing biosynthetic precursors and facilitating the transport of substrates between the mitochondrion and the cytoplasm rather than just as a source of ATP. Muscle tissue relies primarily on glycolysis for rapid energy production and may redistribute energy to the gonads, prioritizing the energy needs of the ovaries and contributing to the dynamic balance between reproduction and growth. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of how environmental factors regulate fish reproduction, providing a theoretical basis and potential molecular targets for the regulation of reproduction and optimization of aquaculture environments. Full article

Menopause is a natural and inevitable part of life for women, leading to many physical and psychological changes accompanied by declining estrogen levels. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of curcumin, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, on postmenopausal outcomes in women. This comprehensive analysis of RCTs (randomized controlled trials) published in the last decade was selected through a search of PubMed, Wiley, Scopus, and Web of Science (PROSPERO Identifier: CRD42024549735). Study selection and data extraction were performed using exclusion and inclusion criteria according to the PICOS framework (P: Population, I: Intervention, C: Comparison, O: Outcomes, S: Study designs). Of the twelve studies that met the criteria, 11 had a low-risk bias, but reports were conflicting on serum estradiol levels, bone density markers, and vasomotor symptoms; no significant effects on physical, psychological, or sexual functions were observed. For cardiometabolic biomarkers, short-term curcumin intake showed no significant effects, while long-term interventions using bioavailable forms of curcumin showed improvements in serum fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance), and lipid parameters. There are a limited number of studies examining the effect of curcumin intake on menopause-related outcomes. While overdose has been observed in some studies attempting to restore estradiol levels, no significant effects have been observed. However, curcumin intake impacts postmenopausal symptoms (e.g., improving symptoms of osteoporosis) through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Different forms and doses, combinations, and durations of interventions may influence outcomes. Better-designed studies are needed to understand the potential effects of curcumin intake during menopause. Full article

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women worldwide and continues to pose significant challenges despite progress in early detection and personalized therapies. While its pathogenesis has traditionally been associated with genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, recent studies have highlighted the potential role of dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut and systemic microbiota—in breast cancer development and progression. This article aims to examine the mechanisms through which systemic dysbiosis may contribute to breast cancer risk and explore its therapeutic implications. Methods: This study seeks to analyze and compare the fecal microbiota profiles of breast cancer patients and healthy individuals from a single center in Craiova, Romania, in order to identify microbial signatures linked to breast cancer and BRCA mutation status. Special attention is given to the gut–liver axis and its influence on estrogen circulation, a key factor in hormone-sensitive breast cancers. Results: Evidence suggests that dysbiosis can influence breast cancer progression by promoting chronic inflammation, impairing immune regulation, and altering estrogen metabolism through the gut–liver axis. These effects may contribute to tumor development, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. Interventions aimed at restoring microbial balance show promise in preclinical studies for mitigating these effects. Conclusions: Systemic dysbiosis represents a potentially modifiable risk factor in breast cancer. Microbiota profiling may serve as a useful biomarker for risk stratification and therapeutic response. Future research into microbiome-based interventions could offer novel approaches for prevention and treatment in breast cancer care. Full article

This study investigated the effects of different forage-to-concentrate (F:C) ratios during cold-season supplementation on growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, hormone levels, and antioxidant capacity in yak calves on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Eighteen 8-months-old male yaks with similar body weights (110.01 ± 2.08 kg) were randomly assigned to two groups receiving diets with high (F:C = 7:3) or low (F:C = 3:7) forage. The trial lasted 60 days, including early (days 0–30) and late (days 31–60) experimental stages. Body weight was measured, and serum samples were collected on days 30 and 60 for biochemical and hormonal analyses. Yaks in the low-forage group showed significantly greater average daily gain during both stages and the entire experiment (p < 0.05), with a 7.92% increase in final body weight. Serum total protein and globulin levels were significantly higher in the low-forage group throughout the trial (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), while other biochemical parameters remained unaffected. Growth hormone concentrations were significantly elevated in the low-forage group at both stages (p < 0.05). Additionally, malondialdehyde levels tended to decrease in the early stage (p = 0.056), and total antioxidant capacity was significantly lower in the late experimental stage (p = 0.040) in the low-forage group. A higher net economic benefit was observed in the group fed an F:C ratio of 3:7 than in the 7:3 group. These findings suggest that cold-season supplementation with a low-forage diet improves growth performance and protein utilization in yak calves but may negatively impact antioxidant status. An optimal F:C balance should therefore be considered to support both performance and health in yak husbandry under harsh environmental conditions. Full article

The heart–brain axis (HBA) is a dynamic system of reciprocal communication between the cardiovascular and central nervous system, incorporating neural, immunologic, molecular and hormonal pathways. The central autonomic network is described as a key regulator of cardiovascular activity and autonomic dysfunction as an important mechanism underlying various neurologic and cardiac disorders. Heart rate variability (HRV) is identified as the key biomarker of the axis reflecting autonomic nervous system balance. Increased understanding of its molecular mechanisms has led to the proposal of new therapeutic strategies focused on modulating heart–brain communication including β-blockers, vagus nerve stimulation, neurotrophin modulation, and nanoparticle-based approaches. The integration of wearables and artificial intelligence (AI) has allowed for real-time monitoring and innovative diagnostic and prognostic applications. The present narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the mechanisms comprising the heart–brain axis, their implication in neurologic and cardiac disorders, and their potential for developing novel therapies. It also highlights how advancements in wearable technology and AI systems are being integrated into clinical practice and transforming the landscape. Full article

Litopenaeus vannamei, commonly known as the Pacific white shrimp, is one of the most economically significant species in global aquaculture, valued for its rapid growth and adaptability. However, the mechanisms regulating its growth, especially under high-density farming and environmental stress, remain poorly understood. Previous study predicted that LvSlc12A2 was involved in growth regulation. To further reveal the function of this gene in the growth regulation of the whiteleg shrimp, in this study, we explore its function using RT-qPCR, RNA interference, overexpression, and tissue in situ hybridization. RT-qPCR results showed that LvSlc12A2 was highly expressed in gills (about 62%), followed by the hepatopancreas, with the lowest expression in muscle (0.08%, compared to the gills). Myostatin (LvMstn) was mainly expressed in the heart, and molt-inhibiting hormone (LvMIH) in the ventral nerve. In situ hybridization of gill tissues using the mRNA of the gene as a probe revealed strong LvSlc12A2 signals in the gill stratum and epithelial cells. Overexpression of LvSlc12A2, significantly decreased the osmotic gene aquaporin (LvAqp), while knockdown increased its expression. Additionally, levels of growth-related inhibitory genes LvMstn and LvMIH increased significantly after LvSlc12A2 overexpression and were downregulated after its knockdown, suggesting LvSlc12A2 negatively regulates growth, possibly in synergy with LvMstn and LvMIH. These findings indicate LvSlc12A2 influences growth both by negative regulation and by modulating osmotic balance in gill tissues. Full article

N, as plants’ most essential nutrient, profoundly shapes root system architecture (RSA), with LRs being preferentially regulated. This review synthesizes the intricate molecular mechanisms underpinning N sensing, signaling, and its integration into developmental pathways governing LR initiation, primordium formation, emergence, and elongation. We delve deeply into the roles of specific transporters (NRT1.1, nitrate transporter 2.1 (NRT2.1)), transcription factors (Arabidopsis nitrate regulated 1 (ANR1), NLP7, TGACG motif-binding factor (TGA), squamosa promoter-binding protein-like 9 (SPL9)) and intricate hormone signaling networks (auxin, abscisic acid, cytokinins, ethylene) modulated by varying N availability (deficiency, sufficiency, excess) and chemical forms (NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺, organic N). Emphasis is placed on the systemic signaling pathways, including peptide-mediated long-distance communication (CEP—C-terminally encoded peptide receptor 1 (CEPR1)) and the critical role of the shoot in modulating root responses. Furthermore, we explore the emerging significance of carbon–nitrogen (C/N) balance, post-translational modifications (ubiquitination, phosphorylation), epigenetic regulation, and the complex interplay with other nutrients (phosphorus (P), sulfur (S)) and environmental factors in shaping N-dependent LR plasticity. Recent advances utilizing single-cell transcriptomics and advanced imaging reveal unprecedented cellular heterogeneity in LR responses to N. Understanding this sophisticated regulatory network is paramount for developing strategies to enhance nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in crops. This synthesis underscores how N acts as a master regulator, dynamically rewiring developmental programs through molecular hubs that synchronize nutrient sensing with root morphogenesis—a key adaptive strategy for resource acquisition in heterogeneous soils. Full article

In recent years, plant tissue culture has become a crucial component of the modern bioeconomy. From a commercial perspective, plant micropropagation remains one of its most valuable applications. Plants exhibit remarkable developmental plasticity; however, many species still remain recalcitrant in tissue culture. While the term recalcitrant is commonly used to describe plants with poor in vitro regeneration capacity, from a biological point of view it suggests that the minimal culture requirements for this species were unmet. Despite evidence that the Skoog–Miller exogenous hormonal balance theory and Murashige–Skoog medium were species-limited in applicability, generations of plant biotechnologists applied these tools indiscriminately. This led to systemic propagation of ineffective protocols, publication of misleading standards, and a culture of scientific inertia—costing both time and resources. The field must now move beyond historical dogma toward data-driven, species-specific innovation based on multiple endogenous auxin biosynthesis pathways, epigenetic reprogramming of competent cells, and further modern biotechnologies that are evolving. In this short viewpoint, we describe possible solutions in plant biotechnology to significantly improve the effectiveness of it. Full article

Seedling cultivation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a critical initial step in rice production. This study investigated the effects of sowing methods and strigolactone (GR24) on rice seedlings under salt stress. Results showed that drill-sown seedlings exhibited superior quality under normal conditions compared to broadcast-sown seedlings. Salt stress significantly increased the contents of Cl⁻, Na⁺, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA), disrupted chloroplast structure and hormonal balance, and reduced gas exchange parameters and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Notably, drill-sowing conferred stronger salt tolerance than broadcast-sowing. Exogenous application of GR24 enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes—including superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT)—and elevated non-enzymatic antioxidant contents such as ascorbic acid (ASA), glutathione (GSH), total phenolics, and flavonoids, alongside related enzyme activities. Concurrently, GR24 reduced Na⁺ and Cl⁻ accumulation, lowered the Na⁺/K⁺ ratio, and increased the contents of K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and hormones. Consequently, GR24 decreased MDA and ROS levels, protected membrane integrity, reduced electrolyte leakage, repaired chloroplast structure, and improved gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Due to their superior spatial distribution and photosynthetic efficiency, drill-sown seedlings synergized with GR24 to enhance antioxidant capacity under salt stress, enabling more effective scavenging of peroxidative radicals, stabilization of the photosynthetic system, and mitigation of salt-induced growth inhibition. Ultimately, this combination demonstrated greater stress alleviation than broadcast-sown seedlings. Full article

Background and Objectives: Optimal pharmacological treatment following left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improvement remains largely unknown. This study compared the clinical outcomes of patients with heart failure (HF) with improved EF (HFimpEF) based on the maintenance of sacubitril/valsartan (S/V) or transition to a renin–angiotensin system blocker (RASB). Material and Method: A total of 354 patients with recovered LVEF of at least 40% after S/V treatment from a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized into three groups: those who continued S/V (n = 294), those who switched to RASB (n = 47), and those who discontinued both S/V and RASB (n = 13). The primary endpoint was HF relapse, defined as a two-fold increase in baseline serum N-terminal-pro hormone B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration exceeding 400 pg/dL. Secondary endpoints included the ratio and difference between baseline and peak NT-proBNP levels. Result: Baseline clinical characteristics were well balanced among groups. Over a median follow-up of 399 (252–589) days, HF relapse occurred more frequently in patients who discontinued both S/V and RASB compared to those who maintained either treatment (53.8% vs. 16.3% vs. 10.6%; p = 0.001). NT-proBNP levels also showed a more pronounced increase in this group. However, there were no significant differences in primary or secondary outcomes between the S/V and RASB groups. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that replacing S/V with another RASB does not worsen outcomes in patients with HFimpEF after S/V treatment, whereas discontinuation of both therapies is associated with a significantly higher risk of HF relapse. A prospective trial is warranted to confirm the safety and effectiveness of this approach in maintaining remission. Full article

Controlled-release urea (CRU) can improve nitrogen (N) use efficiency and yield, but comprehensive evaluations of its agronomic, physiological, and environmental impacts remain limited. Through a two-year field experiment comparing three CRU types with conventional urea at five N rates (0-280 kg N ha⁻¹), we demonstrate that CRU at 180 kg N ha⁻¹ maintained high maize yields (13.9 Mg ha⁻¹) while improving N use efficiency, with thermosetting polymer-coated samples (TCU) showing superior performance. There was a significant increase in the net photosynthetic rate by 7.9–32.7% and intercellular CO₂ concentration by 20.6–40.0% under CRU treatments during the silking and milking stages. The CRU treatments also sustained optimal levels of hormones, N metabolism enzymes, and sucrase and urease activities. Compared to common urea, life cycle assessment indicates that CRU has achieved a 47.5% reduction in reactive N losses and an 18.7% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Economically, CRU outperformed common urea, with TCU providing the highest net benefit through yield stability and labor savings. These findings establish TCU at 180 kg N ha⁻¹ as an optimal strategy of maize production in the North China Plain, balancing productivity, profitability, and environmental protection. Full article

Pinus yunnanensis is an essential tree species in southwest China. However, its genetic degeneration problem urgently needs to be addressed. Decapitation promotes seedling propagation primarily by disrupting apical dominance, triggering hormonal changes that stimulate lateral bud growth. To investigate the response of hormones and photosynthetic pigments in P. yunnanensis to decapitation at different seedling ages, seedlings aged 6, 10, 14, 18, and 30 months were used as materials to carry out unified decapitation treatment, and the dynamics of photosynthetic pigments, changes in endogenous hormones, and their relationship with tillering ability were analyzed. The results showed that the photosynthetic pigments were higher in younger decapitated seedlings than in older ones, and carotenoids showed an upward trend with time. Additionally, decapitation significantly altered the balance of endogenous hormones, including the contents of GAs, ABA, SA, JA, JA-Ile, and ACC. The GA₃ and ABA contents in the middle-aged decapitated seedlings of P. yunnanensis were higher. The seedlings with older decapitation ages showed higher contents of IAA, SA, and JA. Overall, seedlings with different decapitation ages exhibit significant differences in their responses to decapitation, as indicated by variations in photosynthetic pigments and hormones. This research elucidated the optimal decapitation age for P. yunnanensis, providing a theoretical foundation for establishing efficient decapitation nurseries and promoting near-natural propagation. Full article

Background: We examined changes in hematological, biochemical, and hormonal biomarkers, along with endurance and explosive performance indices, in amateur soccer players over a 4-week preseason period. Methods: Thirteen players (age: 19.7 ± 2.0 years; body mass: 73.0 ± 6.8 kg; height: 180 ± 0.1 cm; body fat: 8.6 ± 3.5%) were monitored during a 4-week preseason program, which included 21 training days, three friendly matches, and four days of rest. Before and after this period, endurance capacity was evaluated using the Yo-Yo IR1 test, and leg power was assessed using the CMJ. Blood samples were collected for three consecutive days in week 1 and after week 4 to assess hematological and biochemical parameters. Internal load during all weeks was assessed with session RPE (sRPE). Results: There was a 25.5% increase in Yo-Yo IR1 distance (2123 ± 413 vs. 1560 ± 356 m, p = 0.002), with the estimated VO₂max and the speed associated with VO₂max (vVO₂max) improving by 8.7% (49.5 ± 3.0 to 54.2 ± 3.5 mL/kg/min, p = 0.002) and 5.3% (16.0 ± 0.7 to 16.9 ± 0.6 km/h, p = 0.002), respectively. In contrast, CMJ performance in weeks 2–4 declined by 13.4–21.0% relative to baseline, while sRPE peaked during week 3 (4011 ± 440 AU). Hematological variables were mostly stable except for small increases in MCV and MCH (1.5–1.8%, p < 0.001), while there were significant reductions in urea (12%), uric acid (6.2%), and erythropoietin (33%). Conclusions: A 4-week preseason program substantially improved aerobic capacity yet compromised leg power. Changes in biomarker profiles suggest that the training load maintained an appropriate balance between overload and recovery. These findings provide valuable guidance for coaches seeking to optimize training protocols while minimizing the risk of overtraining and preventing injuries during the competitive season. Full article