Search Results (1,319)

Tributyrin, a short-chain fatty acid derivative, has been shown to hold potential in improving intestinal health in livestock and poultry. However, its multidimensional effects on the health of meat pigeons, particularly during the young pigeon stage, remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the comprehensive effects of dietary tributyrin supplementation on the growth, health status, intestinal function, and metabolic profile of young pigeons. A total of 100 healthy 29-day-old White King pigeons, with half male and half female, were randomly divided into a control group (fed a basal diet) and a treatment group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 1500 mg/kg tributyrin) for a 35-day trial. The results showed that compared with the control group, young pigeons in the treatment group had significantly reduced serum triglyceride levels, alanine aminotransferase activity, and concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), along with significantly increased levels of high-density lipoprotein, immunoglobulin G, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase activity. Concurrently, the villus height-to-crypt depth ratio in the jejunum and ileum was significantly elevated, indicating improved intestinal morphological structure. Untargeted metabolomics analysis further revealed significant changes in the relative abundances of 13 key differential metabolites (e.g., L-carnitine, pyridoxamine, indoleacetic acid) in the small intestinal contents of the treatment group. These metabolites were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways such as 2-oxoCarboxylic acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and vitamin B6 metabolism. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 1500 mg/kg tributyrin can exert multifaceted beneficial effects on young pigeon health by improving lipid metabolism, enhancing immune and antioxidant functions, optimizing intestinal structure, and regulating the local metabolic network. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of tributyrin as a functional additive in the green and healthy production of meat pigeons. Full article

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by barrier disruption, microbiota dysbiosis, fibrosis, and impaired autophagy. We investigated the effects of Rhamnocitrin (Rha) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic UC mice using histological analysis, molecular assays, and multiomics profiling. Rha alleviated weight loss and colon shortening; improved mucus secretion and tight junction protein expression; suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation; activated autophagy via AMPK activation and consequent Akt/mTOR inhibition; and attenuated colonic fibrosis. Multiomics analysis integrating 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, and metabolomics revealed that Rha remodels the gut microbiota and is associated with elevated levels of beneficial metabolites, including butyrate in the colon, glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid in the liver, and α-linolenic acid in the serum. Correlation analysis revealed close associations between microbiota and metabolite alterations, and improved barrier integrity, reduced inflammation, and attenuated fibrosis. These findings suggest that Rha ameliorates chronic UC by modulating autophagy, microbiota composition, and host metabolism across the gut–liver axis. Full article

Feed additives play a crucial role in boosting livestock immunity, but their underlying molecular mechanisms are often incompletely understood. This study used integrated proteomics and metabolomics to systematically investigate the immunomodulatory effects of dietary fermented onion (FO) on the spleen of Liangshan Black Sheep. Results showed that FO supplementation significantly improved systemic antioxidant capacity and immune function, indicated by a higher spleen index and increased serum concentrations of SOD, MCP-1, and IL-2 (p < 0.05). Multi-omics profiling of spleen tissues identified 169 differentially expressed proteins and 168 differential metabolites. Integrated pathway enrichment revealed calcium signaling and purine metabolism as potential core regulatory hubs for the observed immunomodulation. This molecular remodeling correlated with key molecules including protein F2R and metabolites adenosine and hypoxanthine, which may form a coordinated regulatory network. Overall, our findings suggest potential pathways linking dietary FO supplementation to enhanced splenic immune function in Liangshan Black Sheep, likely via synergistic regulation of specific signaling pathways. This work supports FO as a promising functional feed additive and provides a molecular framework for developing novel immunomodulatory strategies in livestock production. Full article

Intensive aquaculture of rice field eel (Monopterus albus) is constrained by oxidative stress induced by high-density culture resulting in growth inhibition, while prophylactic antibiotics pose escalating risks of drug resistance and food safety hazards. This study addresses the critical need for developing efficient, environmentally friendly functional feed additives as sustainable growth promoters in intensive aquaculture. To investigate the dietary berberine (BBR) effect on promoting growth performance, hepatic antioxidant capacity and metabolism in M. albus, four experimental groups were established: control (CON, 0 mg/kg) and berberine-supplemented groups (BBR25, 25 mg/kg; BBR50, 50 mg/kg; BBR100, 100 mg/kg). Growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and liver metabolomics (LC-MS) were evaluated after the 8-week feeding trial. BBR50 and BBR100 had significantly increased final weight, weight gain rate (WG), and survival rate (SR), while reducing feed conversion ratio (FCR) (p < 0.05). Serum glucose (Glc), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were decreased (p < 0.05), while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and phosphofructokinase (PFK) activity were increased (p < 0.05). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were upregulated (p < 0.05), whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) was downregulated (p < 0.05). Metabolomics identified 98 differential metabolites, with significant enrichment of metabolites associated with arachidonic acid metabolism, histidine metabolism, arginine/proline metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and pathways related to mTOR signaling. Overall, dietary supplementation with 50 mg/kg BBR emerged as a practically favorable dose among the tested concentrations for promoting growth performance and feed utilization efficiency, whereas 100 mg/kg BBR was associated with lipid and amino acid metabolic alterations suggestive of metabolic reprogramming and antioxidant-related shifts, without conferring additional growth benefits. Full article

The composition and function of the intestinal microbiota of Xinggao mutton sheep were explored before and post-weaning using non-target metabolomics. Both 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing technology and serum non-target metabolomics were used to determine changes in sheep metabolites and intestinal flora. A random sampling method was used to collect fecal samples from 20 pre-weaning lambs and 20 lambs post-weaning. Analysis of the intestinal flora identified Firmicutes as the predominant phylum pre-weaning and Bacteroidota as the dominant phylum post-weaning. Joint multi-omics analysis revealed that Oscillospiraceae UCG-005 and Prevotella_9 were significantly correlated with serum L-tyrosine, Indole-3-acrylic acid, and taurine-related metabolites, suggesting their potential roles in modulating digestive health in Xinggao mutton sheep. Full article

Background: To investigate the effect of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] on serum metabolomics in obese type 2 diabetic (T2DM) mice. Methods: Four-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg) to establish an obese T2DM model. Mice were randomized into control, T2DM and T2DM+Ang-(1-7) groups (n = 6). Body weight and blood glucose were recorded weekly. At 10 weeks, blood glucose, serum inflammatory factors, lipid profiles, and pancreatic β-cell insulin secretion were detected; serum metabolite alterations were analyzed via untargeted metabolomics. Results: 1. Ang-(1-7) intervention decreased blood glucose (p < 0.05) and CRP levels (p < 0.01), and alleviated dyslipidemia (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), as well as β-cell morphology and insulin expression in obese T2DM mice. 2. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis suggested that Ang-(1-7) may alleviate abnormal amino acid metabolic pathways by regulating levels of metabolites such as L-valine, L-proline, L-histidine, and glutamic acid. This intervention also tended to reduce multiple lipid metabolites, including Omega-3 Arachidonic Acid Ethyl Ester, phosphatidylcholine, and glycerophosphocholine, thereby participating in the modulation of lipid metabolism balance. KEGG enrichment analysis further indicated that Ang-(1-7) was involved in the regulation of protein digestion and the absorption pathway, as well as the HIF-1 signaling pathway related to oxidative stress, bile acid metabolism pathway, and other signaling pathways, and improving the insulin secretion pathway, pyrimidine metabolism, and TCA cycle energy metabolism pathway. Conclusions: Ang-(1-7) may partially improve metabolic disturbances in obese T2DM mice, which is potentially associated with the modulation of multiple metabolic processes, including amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, insulin secretion, and TCA cycle energy metabolism. Full article

Enhancing egg production in geese without antibiotics remains a challenge in poultry science. This study compared the effects of Lactobacillus (LAB) and Bacillus (BAC) probiotics on laying performance, gut microbiota, and serum metabolism in Zhedong White geese. Birds were fed a control diet or diets supplemented with LAB or BAC. Egg production and quality were monitored throughout the trial. Serum metabolomics and fecal 16S rRNA sequencing were integrated with KEGG enrichment and correlation analyses to uncover functional mechanisms. Both probiotics improved laying performance and egg quality. Total egg production of the LAB group was 8.5% higher than that of the BAC group (p < 0.05). The LAB group’s advantage in egg production was consistent with its stronger activation of the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway (elevated serum corticosterone and tetrahydrocorticosterone indicated an overall enhancement of steroidogenic flux). Simultaneously, the LAB group exhibited a more efficient conversion of L-phenylalanine to catecholamine precursors, which drove activation of the neuroendocrine reproductive axis. The BAC group showed more significant changes in nitrogen and energy metabolism pathways and a more pronounced expansion of energy-harvesting Firmicutes. These findings reveal two strain-specific regulatory pathways: LAB functions through the “aromatic amino acid–neuroendocrine–steroid hormone axis,” while BAC relies on the “gut microbiota–energy metabolism” pathway, with direct implications for the precise application of probiotics under antibiotic-free farming conditions. Full article

Goose blood has anticancer properties and was recorded in ancient China, but the specific molecular mechanisms underlying this effect still require further exploration. In this study, SW1990 cells were treated with goose serum or plasma, and transcriptome analysis was performed to explore the function of goose blood on cancer cells. Metabolomic profiling was also performed on goose serum, goose plasma, chicken serum, and chicken plasma to identify the bioactive substances responsible for the anticancer effect. The study examined the effects of goose plasma and serum on SW1990 cells and compared the metabolites between goose and chicken blood. Wound scratch, CCK-8, and Annexin V-PI assays showed that goose plasma and serum inhibited SW1990 cell proliferation at 24 and 48 h. Both treatments reduced cell viability, with serum inducing early and late apoptosis and plasma inducing late apoptosis. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) identified 2259 (1418 upregulated, 841 downregulated) and 2731 (1844 upregulated, 887 downregulated) differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the plasma and serum groups versus the negative control (NC), respectively, and 689 DEGs between the plasma and serum groups. Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that the DEGs were enriched in processes such as lipid metabolism, JAK-STAT, and IL-17 pathways. Untargeted liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis identified distinct metabolites in goose and chicken blood, with unique metabolites and differential ones between groups. In SW1990 cells, four metabolite subclusters matched the plasma and serum effects. In summary, goose blood can suppress cancer cells by regulating gene expression to affect the key signaling pathways involved in cancer cell apoptosis and autophagy. Certain metabolites present at high concentrations in goose blood, such as cucurbitacin D and Oleoyl-L-carnitine, may also contribute to the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and migration. These findings suggest that goose blood holds broad application prospects as a future auxiliary drug for cancer treatment, and this study provides a theoretical basis for the further application of goose products. Full article

Advances in mass spectrometry-based metabolomics have enabled the detection of numerous small molecules in biological systems, revealing complex metabolic alterations associated with cancer. Among these, dipeptides are consistently detected in plasma, serum, and tumor tissue metabolomic profiles, yet their biological significance is not fully understood. In most studies, circulating dipeptides are interpreted as nonspecific byproducts of protein degradation generated during increased proteolysis. However, accumulating evidence suggests that at least some endogenous dipeptides may have biological activities, including antioxidant effects, metabolic modulation, and potential signaling functions. In this review, we examine the possible origins, transport mechanisms, and biological implications of circulating dipeptides in cancer metabolomics. We discuss multiple sources of dipeptide generation, including intracellular proteolysis, autophagy, extracellular matrix remodeling, tumor cell death, host tissue catabolism, and microbiome metabolism. We also summarize current knowledge regarding peptide transport systems and intracellular dipeptide metabolism that may regulate the fate of these molecules within mammalian systems. In addition, evidence supporting the biological activities of certain endogenous dipeptides is reviewed to evaluate the possibility that some circulating dipeptides may function as bioactive metabolites. Finally, we propose conceptual frameworks for interpreting circulating dipeptides in cancer, including their potential roles as indicators of protein turnover, intermediates in amino acid recycling, stress-buffering molecules, metabolic signals, or components of tumor–host metabolic communication. A better understanding of circulating dipeptides may provide new insights into cancer metabolism and reveal previously overlooked metabolite classes with potential biomarker or functional significance. Full article

Epimedium is a traditional Chinese tonic used to tonify the kidneys, enhance sexual function, and strengthen muscles and bones. However, the potential effects of Epimedium on the semen quality of Bama boars remain incompletely elucidated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary Epimedium ultrafine powder (EP) supplementation on the semen quality of Bama boars and to explore the underlying mechanisms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary EP supplementation on the semen quality of Bama boars and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Eighteen healthy, sexually mature adult male Bama boars were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6) and fed either a basal diet (CON) or the basal diet supplemented with 0.3% (EP3) or 0.5% (EP5) Epimedium ultrafine powder for five weeks. This study employed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), 16S RNA gene sequencing, non-targeted metabolomics (CON and EP5), and Spearman correlation analysis, among other methods. The results indicated that dietary Epimedium (0.3% and 0.5%) increased the levels of serum TP, FSH, and SOD and decreased the abnormal sperm rate and the levels of serum TBA, TNF-α, and IL-6. Among them, adding 0.5% Epimedium in the diet increased sperm motility and the levels of serum T, LH, and IgG. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed that both 0.3% and 0.5% Epimedium supplementation reduced the abundance of Streptococcus. Specifically, the 0.3% dose decreased Prevotella abundance, while the 0.5% dose reduced Escherichia-Shigella abundance. PICRUSt2 analysis revealed that the pathways of phenylalanine, butanoate, biotin, and arachidonic acid metabolism were significantly enriched in the Epimedium group. A non-targeted metabolomics analysis identified that indole-3-acrylic acid, DL-tryptophan, 2-hydroxyphenylalanine, and propionylcarnitine showed significant upregulation after Epimedium supplementation. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that Streptococcus was negatively correlated with sperm motility and serum-related parameters (TP, T, LH, IgM, and IgG). Streptococcus and Escherichia-Shigella were negatively correlated with indole-3-acrylic acid, DL-tryptophan, and biotin. In conclusion, Epimedium has a positive impact on the seminal quality, reproductive hormones, and immune–antioxidant levels of Bama boars by regulating the composition and metabolites of the intestinal microbiota. Full article

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a severe inflammatory disorder with limited therapeutic options. Novel bile acids have emerged as potent immunomodulators, but the function of norcholic acid (NorCA) previously remained unknown. In this study, we identified NorCA’s role as a novel immunomodulator that alleviates acute pancreatitis through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα)-mediated macrophage reprogramming and efferocytosis. Targeted metabolomics was performed on serum from patients with AP and caerulein-induced AP mice. The functional role and mechanism of NorCA were investigated using flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, efferocytosis assays, and network pharmacology, both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings indicate that NorCA levels were significantly elevated in both patients and mice with AP, correlating with disease severity and complications. NorCA treatment markedly reduced serum amylase/lipase and pancreatic histopathological damage in AP mice. Mechanistically, NorCA promoted M1-to-M2 macrophage reprogramming and enhanced efferocytosis of apoptotic cells. These effects were dependent on PPARα activation, as demonstrated by siRNA silencing and pharmacological antagonism. These findings position NorCA as a promising therapeutic candidate and severity-associated metabolite in AP. Full article

Pork production is closely linked to skeletal muscle growth and anabolic processes. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with a multi-strain probiotic (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Bacillus subtilis) on the growth performance, carcass traits, gut microbiota, and potential signaling pathways in growing pigs. A total of 144 weaning piglets (28 days old) were randomly allocated to two groups and fed diets with or without probiotics (0.1%) for 18 weeks. Pigs fed with probiotics showed significantly improved feed efficiency (p < 0.05) and greater muscle mass in the loin eye, arm shoulder, and blade shoulder regions. Microbiome analysis revealed significant enrichment of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing taxa, including Acidaminococcus, Allisonella, Dialister, and Megasphaera, alongside an increased cecal butyrate level in pigs fed probiotics. Integrated fecal microbiome and serum metabolomics analysis demonstrated that the metabolite profile was substantially altered by the supplementation of probiotics. Additionally, serum insulin levels, expression of the bile acid receptor tgr5, and upstream genes in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway (igf1r, insr, and pi3k) were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05). Collectively, these results suggest that a multi-strain probiotic supplementation may be a promising strategy for improving muscle deposition and feed efficiency in commercial pig production. Full article

The gut–heart axis plays a role in cardiac injury due to the disruption of barriers, endotoxemia, and inflammatory signaling; yet, it is not clear whether sodium butyrate (SB) is capable of alleviating isoprenaline-induced myocardial injury through coordinated intestinal, microbial, and metabolic restoration. This study used male Sprague-Dawley rats, which were grouped into control, control + SB, isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial injury, and ISO + SB groups. We evaluated cardiac biomarkers of injury, oxidative stress, histopathologic, intestinal barrier (16S rRNA sequencing), and serum metabolomics (LC-MS). SB treatment decreased serum cardiac troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, and lactate dehydrogenase; relieved oxidative stress; and lowered myocardial necrosis and fibrosis. It re-established colonic architecture, upregulated the expression of ZO-1 (zonula occludens-1) and claudin-1, and reduced endotoxin in the bloodstream. SB also prevented the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β; cardiac TLR4; IκBα degradation; and NF-κB p 65 phosphorylation. In addition, SB altered the gut microbiota in favor of beneficial commensals, including Ligilactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and reduced Desulfovibrio. It normalized key circulating metabolites and enriched cardiometabolic pathways, and the patterns of correlation suggested the coordinated remodeling of the microbiome–metabolome. These findings reveal that SB prevents myocardial injury caused by ISO through strengthening gut barrier protection, alleviating endotoxemia, inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB, and remodeling the microbiome–metabolome axis, indicating its potential for use as a gut-targeted cardioprotective intervention. Full article

Glaucoma remains a primary cause of blindness, yet its pathogenesis often extends beyond intraocular pressure (IOP). This review integrates four converging lines of metabolic evidence—aqueous humor (AH) metabolomics, kynurenine pathway (KP) activity, tetrahydrobiopterin (H4BIP) biology, and NAD/one-carbon dysfunction—into a testable framework for retinal ganglion cell vulnerability. By utilizing a systematic AH metabolomics atlas covering glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation, and diabetes on a standardized HILIC-LC-HRMS platform, we demonstrate that, while aromatic amino acid elevations are non-specific markers, kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO) upregulation is a condition-specific glaucoma signature. These local findings are corroborated by systemic evidence: POAG patients exhibit significant folic acid deficiency (p = 0.007) and elevated alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT). Critically, AAT correlates inversely with both serum folate (r_s = −0.485, p < 0.001) and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (r_s = −0.386, p = 0.017), providing the first in-patient evidence linking systemic inflammation to structural optic nerve damage. We conclude that KMO serves as a critical enzymatic node linking tryptophan metabolism, H4BIP availability, and NAD synthesis. These results characterize glaucoma as a disease of progressive cofactor failure and define a research agenda for multimodal metabolic neuroprotection. Full article

Background: Cang-ai volatile oil (CAVO) is a traditional Chinese medicine with properties that soothe the liver and alleviate depression. CAVO is widely utilized in the field of antidepressant research and has surfaced as a possible treatment for depression. Depression is a common affective disorder and effective treatment methods are still limited. CAVO is effective in treating depression; however, the exact mechanism is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the likely mechanism by which CAVO reduces symptoms of depression in rats exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). Methods: We established a CUMS model in Sprague–Dawley rats and administered CAVO via nebulization to evaluate its therapeutic effect. Behavioral and histology tests were conducted to evaluate brain tissue damage. We utilized metabolomics combined with proteomics to analyze the effects of CAVO. We then assessed molecular validation to further clarify the molecular mechanism of its activity. Results: In CUMS model rats, inhaling aerosolized CAVO reduced brain pathology and depression-like behaviors. CAVO changed serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors. Biomarkers linked to CAVO’s antidepressant effects were found via metabolomics. Functional analyses highlighted key molecular players such as TrkB, and CREB, and a close association with the antidepressant action of CAVO was confirmed. Conclusions: This study reveals that CAVO reduces depression-like behaviors in CUMS rats by regulating the NT/Trk signaling pathway. These results demonstrate CAVO’s therapeutic potential and lay the groundwork for future studies and the creation of depressive treatments. Full article