PubMed

Anim Nutr. 2024 Oct 26;20:145-157. doi: 10.1016/j.aninu.2024.07.008. eCollection 2025 Mar.ABSTRACTMethionine (Met) metabolism is vital for one carbon metabolism, redox status and fetal development. Hence, this study investigated the effects of different levels and sources of Met on maternal metabolism, anti-oxidative capacity and fetal survival in pregnant sows. Forty primiparous sows were assigned to the following four groups: control group (basal diet, CON), 1.5S-OHMet group (supplemented methionine hydroxy analogue [OHMet] at 1.5 g/kg diet), 3.0S-OHMet group (supplemented OHMet at 3.0 g/kg diet), and 3.0S-Met group (supplemented L-Met at 3.0 g/kg diet) (n = 10). The trial lasted from day 60 of gestation to the farrowing day. Maternal 1.5S-OHMet consumption had the lowest stillborn ratio and the highest serum glucose levels during farrowing. Further analysis revealed that dietary 1.5S-OHMet consumption elevated the serum contents of glucose-6-phosphate, citric acid, butyric acid, malic acid, 3-methyladenine, 1-methyladenosine, ferulic acid and salicylic acid, but reduced the serum contents of succinic acid, oxoglutaric acid, 9(S)-hydroperoxylinoleic acid, 13(S)-hydroperoxy-octadecatrienoic acid, uric acid and urea nitrogen when compared to contents observed in the 3.0S-OHMet and 3.0S-Met groups (P < 0.05). Serum metabolomics analysis was conducted to determine the enriched differential metabolites and an enrichment analysis was performed using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis. The results showed that the enriched metabolites were mainly associated with central carbon metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism. Moreover, maternal 3.0S-OHMet or 3.0S-Met consumption upregulated the trans-methylation pathway by elevating the S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM) level and the ratio of SAM to S-adenosyl-homocysteine (P < 0.05) at day 114 of gestation, while increasing homocysteine concentration (P < 0.001). However, compared to the 3.0S-Met group, maternal 3.0S-OHMet consumption elevated fetal survival and glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.05). Thus, this study provided new insights into the mechanisms through which sows fed with a 1.5S-OHMet diet during mid-to late-gestation period had high fetal survival, such as improvements in maternal amino acid, nucleotide and glycolipid metabolism.PMID:39967700 | PMC:PMC11833788 | DOI:10.1016/j.aninu.2024.07.008

Anim Nutr. 2024 Nov 1;20:182-199. doi: 10.1016/j.aninu.2024.08.008. eCollection 2025 Mar.ABSTRACTBacteroides fragilis (B. fragilis), a crucial commensal bacterium within the gut, has shown connections with hepatic lipid metabolism and inflammation regulation. Nonetheless, the role of B. fragilis in the progression of fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) remains unknown. This study aims to explore the ameliorative effects of B. fragilis on FLHS in laying hens, as well as its underlying mechanisms. This is the first study to employ a chicken FLHS model, combining microbiomics and oxylipin metabolomics to investigate the mechanism of action of intestinal symbiotic bacteria. Exp. 1: 40 laying hens at 25 weeks old were randomly divided into five treatment groups (eight replicates per group and one hen per replicate), including the control group (basal diet), the high-energy and low-protein (HELP) group, and the HELP group with three different levels (108, 109, and 1010 CFU) of B. fragilis. Exp. 2: 18 chickens at 25 weeks old were randomly divided into three treatment groups (six replicates per group and one hen per replicate) including the control group (basal diet), the model group (HELP diet), and the arachidonic acid (AA) group (HELP diet with 0.3% AA). The experiment period of Exp. 1 and Exp. 2 were 8 weeks. B. fragilis significantly improved body weight of seventh week (P = 0.006), liver lipid degeneration, blood lipid levels (triglycerides, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; P < 0.05), and liver function (alanine aminotransferase and aminotransferase; P < 0.05) in laying hens. B. fragilis downregulated the expression of lipid synthesis-related genes fatty acid synthase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and liver X receptor α, and inflammation-related genes tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 in the liver of FLHS-affected hens (P < 0.05), while upregulating the expression of lipid oxidation-related genes carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) α, and PPARγ (P < 0.05). The in-depth analysis indicated alterations in oxylipin pathways triggered by B. fragilis, as evidenced by changes in the expression of pivotal genes arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase, arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (P < 0.05), subsequently causing modifications in relevant metabolites. This included a decrease in pro-inflammatory substances such as 15-oxoETE (P = 0.004), accompanied by an increase in AA (P = 0.008). B. fragilis regulated the homeostasis of intestinal flora by increasing the abundance of Bacteroides and decreasing the abundance of Succinatimonas and Faecalicoccus (P < 0.05). The integrated analysis revealed a robust positive correlation between Bacteroides abundance and AA levels (P = 0.007). This relationship was corroborated through in vitro experiments. Subsequently, the beneficial effect of AA in mitigating FLHS was confirmed in laying hens with FLHS, further supported by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrating gene expression patterns akin to B. fragilis intervention. This study demonstrated that B. fragilis exerts an anti-FLHS effect through modulation of oxylipin metabolism and gut microbiota stability, with a pivotal role played by AA.PMID:39967692 | PMC:PMC11834063 | DOI:10.1016/j.aninu.2024.08.008

JACC CardioOncol. 2025 Feb;7(2):171-184. doi: 10.1016/j.jaccao.2024.12.004. Epub 2025 Feb 4.ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC) is characterized by a disruption in myocardial metabolism.OBJECTIVES: The authors used a large animal model to test sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitor therapy to prevent AIC.METHODS: Female large white pigs (n = 36) were used to identify the most translational AIC regimen: 6 triweekly intravenous doxorubicin injections (1.8 mg/kg each). Another group of 32 pigs were randomized (1:1:2) to doxorubicin plus empagliflozin 20 mg, doxorubicin plus empagliflozin 10 mg, or doxorubicin control. Pigs were serially examined using multiparametric cardiac magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. At the end of the 21-week follow-up period, blood samples were obtained to measure myocardial metabolic substrate extraction, and the left ventricle was harvested and processed for analysis using metabolomics, transmission electron microscopy, mitochondrial respirometry, and histopathology.RESULTS: Final left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), the prespecified primary outcome, was significantly higher in pigs receiving 20 mg empagliflozin than in the doxorubicin control group (median 57.5% [Q1-Q3: 55.5%-60.3%] vs 47.0% [Q1-Q3: 40.8%-47.8%]; P = 0.027). Final LVEF in pigs receiving 10 mg empagliflozin was 51% (Q1-Q3: 46.5%-55.5%; P = 0.020 vs 20 mg empagliflozin). The incidence of AIC events was 0%, 50%, and 72% in the empagliflozin 20 mg, empagliflozin 10 mg, and doxorubicin control groups, respectively. Empagliflozin 20 mg treatment resulted in enhanced ketone body consumption by the myocardium, preserved magnetic resonance spectroscopy-measured cardiac energetics, and improved mitochondrial structure and function on transmission electron microscopy and respirometry. These changes were more modest with the 10-mg empagliflozin dose.CONCLUSIONS: Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor therapy with empagliflozin exerts a dose-dependent cardioprotective effect against AIC. The improved LVEF was accompanied by enhanced ketone body consumption, improved cardiac energetics, and preserved mitochondrial structure and function.PMID:39967204 | DOI:10.1016/j.jaccao.2024.12.004

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115735. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115735. Epub 2025 Jan 16.ABSTRACTThe metabolic characteristics of Daqu are crucial factors affecting the sensory attributes of Baijiu. However, the mechanisms underlying the development of Daqu's metabolic profile, particularly the relationship with functional species, remain insufficiently understood. Therefore, we employed Qu-omics to comprehensively analyze the metabolic profiles of the three typical types of Daqu, namely high-, medium-, and low-temperature Daqu (HTD, MTD, and LTD). Flavoromics and metabolomics analyses revealed that the concentrations of both volatile and non-volatile compounds were highest in MTD, followed by those in LTD, which were characterized by elevated levels of esters, alcohols, and organic acids. In contrast, HTD exhibited a distinct metabolic profile, with a significantly higher abundance of aldehydes, ketones, pyrazines, amino acids, and small peptides. Additionally, 47 volatiles and 26 non-volatiles were identified as differential markers among three types of Daqu, including aroma-active compounds such as 2,5-dimethylpyrazine and phenethyl alcohol. The metabolic pathways associated with these metabolites were reconstructed by integrating metagenomic datasets, which highlighted the potential role of functional bacteria in shaping Daqu's metabolic profiles. Specifically, Staphylococcus gallinarum, Brevibacterium intestinavium, and Kroppenstedtia eburnean may play essential roles in HTD, while Bacillus velezensis/Weissella cibaria and Kosakonia cowanii/Pantoea agglomerans in MTD and LTD, respectively. These findings enhance our understanding of the metabolic diversity of Chinese Daqu and provide valuable insights for flavor regulation.PMID:39967182 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115735

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115712. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115712. Epub 2025 Jan 7.ABSTRACTThe study investigates the impacts of indigenous bacterial strains inoculation specifically L. pentosus, on the flavor characteristics, microbial composition, and metabolite profiles of fermented oyster hydrolysates. This research aimed to elucidate potential mechanisms underlying the reduction of off-flavors in fermented hydrolysates. A total of 46 and 57 volatile compounds were detected by GC-MS and GC-IMS in hydrolysates inoculated with different core microbes, respectively. The 9 key volatile compounds detected by GC-MS analysis. (E, E)-2,4-heptadienal, heptanal, octanal, pentanal, and (E)-2-octenal reduced the off-flavor of the fermented oyster hydrolysate. Meanwhile 1-octen-3-ol, 3-octanone, 4-octanone, and (E, Z)-2,6-nonadienal enhanced the direct contribution of desirable flavors. Variation in 16 amino acids, 10 organic acids and 3 nucleotides were monitored to further understand the metabolic changes affecting flavor quality. Moreover, pyruvate decarboxylase [EC 4.1.1.1], phosphomannanase [EC 3.2.1.109], lipoyl-CoA synthetase [EC 6.3.2.4], and arginine kinase [EC 2.7.3.3] were the main microbiologically active enzymes. An increase in the content of aromatic compounds and a decrease in the content of C6-C9 unsaturated aldehydes through Lys, Phe, Asp, Glu, phosphoenolpyruvate, oleic acid, and linoleic acid metabolism pathways improved the flavor of oyster hydrolysates fermented by L. pentosus. This research provides a theoretical basis for leveraging autochthonous microbial fermentation to systematically improve flavor characteristics in fermented products.PMID:39967166 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115712

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115672. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115672. Epub 2025 Jan 9.ABSTRACTThis study explores selenium enrichment of milk through microbial transformation, utilizing Geotrichum candidum LG-8, isolated from traditional dairy products. A combination of electronic tongue, electronic nose, HPLC-ICP-MS, and UHPLC-QTOF-MS were used to evaluate milk quality, organic selenium types, and various components. The milk retained a weakly acidic pH post-transformation, with a flavor profile rich in sour, sweet, and umami tastes. Odor analysis revealed predominant contributions from nitrogen oxides, aromatic compounds, ketones, and organic sulfides. Selenium concentrations increased with higher initial selenium levels, with 50 μg/mL yielding concentrations of MeSeCys, SeCys2, Se(IV), SeMet, and Se(VI) at 5.15, 20.80, 1.41, 75.31 and 0.44 μg/L respectively. Significant changes were observed in the milk's amino acid profile, with metabolite identification and metabolic pathways mapping(including KEGG). The findings highlight the potential of Geotrichum candidum LG-8 for generating functional organic selenium-enriched milk, offering promising nutritional benefits in dairy production.PMID:39967143 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115672

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115666. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115666. Epub 2025 Jan 7.ABSTRACTThe anti-obesity effects of tea and its functional components have been extensively studied. However, the protective effects of different types of tea against obesity induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study systematically compared the effects of white tea and dark tea on obese rats and explored their mechanisms. The results indicated that dark tea extracts (DT) higher concentrations of theabrownins and gallic acid, while white tea extracts (WT) contained abundant levels of polyphenols and amino acids. Moreover, both WT and DT effectively improved obesity-related symptoms, including weight loss, reduced fat accumulation, improved dyslipidemia, and alleviated liver and colon damage. Specifically, WT primarily functioned by inhibiting white fat accumulation and enhancing UCP1 expression in brown fat, leading to more significant weight loss. Conversely, DT increased both the quantity and uniform distribution of colonic goblet cells and elevated the expression levels of tight junction proteins in obese rats, thereby providing better protection for the intestinal barrier. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that WT and DT regulated gut microbiota imbalances, restored microbiota diversity, inhibited the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, and promoted the proliferation of beneficial bacteria. Metabolomics analyses demonstrated that WT and DT increased the concentration of short-chain fatty acids in the feces of obese rats, regulated the biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, as well as the biosynthesis pathways of valine, leucine, and isoleucine, while decreasing the levels of these amino acids in feces. In conclusion, this study provides new evidence supporting the idea that tea can mitigate HFD-induced obesity through the regulation of gut microbiota and alteration of fecal metabolite profiles.PMID:39967141 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115666

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115638. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115638. Epub 2025 Jan 6.ABSTRACTNon-starch polysaccharides have been demonstrated to have significant benefits in treating some chronic metabolic diseases such as hyperglycemia. However, the preventive effect of non-starch polysaccharides from Castanea mollissima Bl. (CMNSP) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remain underexplored. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of CMNSP on glucose and lipid metabolism, intestinal barrier, gut microbiota and their metabolites in high fat diet/streptozotocin-induced T2DM mice. The results revealed that CMNSP significantly mitigated hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and prevented pancreatic atrophy, hepatic steatosis and enhanced the expression at mRNA level and corresponding protein of PI3K/AKT/Glut2 signaling pathway in liver. Moreover, CMNSP enhanced the level of SCFAs and restored intestinal barrier damage and gut microbiota disturbance in diabetic mice. Further fecal metabolomics analysis identified that CMNSP primarily influenced the metabolic pathways such as Primary bile acid biosynthesis and Taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, and were significantly correlated with changes in dominant bacterial genera including Bacteroides and Lactobacillus.PMID:39967138 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115638

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115784. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115784. Epub 2025 Jan 20.ABSTRACT'Ming guan'(MG), an elite albino cultivar deriving from the progeny of the traditional albino cultivar 'Bai jiguan', is a promising candidate for white tea production due to its favorable amino acid to phenol ratio. In this study, a comprehensive metabolomics analysis using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) were conducted to reveal the dynamic changes of non-volatile and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) throughout the withering processing of MG white tea. Meanwhile, multivariate statistical analyses were applied to screen for the characteristic components in the flavor and aroma of MG white tea. A total of 625 non-volatile metabolites and 118 VOCs were determined, of which 90 non-volatile metabolites (VIP ≥ 1, FC ≥ 2 or ≤ 0.5) were identified as key flavor components significantly changed throughout the withering process. The relative odor activity value (ROAV) analysis highlighted 22 VOCs (ROAV ≥ 1) with substantial effect on aroma formation, of which geraniol, (E)-2-hexenal, 4-methoxy-benzaldehyde and guaiacol emerging as the most key aroma constituents of MG white tea, endowing MG white tea with fruity and floral odor notes. This study offered a comprehensive investigation into metabolite changes in MG white tea, contributing valuable insights for the innovation of new white tea products utilizing albino tea plant mutants.PMID:39967118 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115784

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115759. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115759. Epub 2025 Jan 20.ABSTRACTIn this study, to improve the understanding of aroma characteristics, functional components, and nutritional variations in coriander at different growth stages, metabolomic approaches were employed to evaluate the profiles of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in coriander microgreens (CM) and coriander baby greens (CBG), focusing on their types and quantities. A comprehensive analysis identified 1,000 volatile and 1,799 non-volatile metabolites, among which 257 volatile and 597 non-volatile differential metabolites were recognized as key metabolites associated with coriander at various stages of maturity. Notably, key volatile organic compounds (VOCs) 1-p-menthen-8-thiol, 2-isobutyl-3-methoxypyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone and β-ionone were identified as the primary odor determinants during the CM and CBM stages. Additionally, flavonoids such as kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone significantly contribute to flavonoid biosynthesis pathways of coriander. Subsequently, a network pharmacology analysis was conducted to explore the potential therapeutic targets and pathways associated with the bioactive constituents pertinent to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity (OB), as identified through the metabolomics analysis. Through comprehensive bioactive ingredient screening, target prediction, protein-protein interaction network analysis, biological process examination, signaling pathway elucidation, and molecular docking validation, the underlying mechanisms by which CM and CBG potentially confer protection against T2DM and OB were elucidated. Through network pharmacology analysis, 10 core targets and their corresponding 49 compounds, including 17 flavonoids, were screened. This study establishes a theoretical framework for the application of CM and CBG as plant-based functional foods, distinguished by their flavor profiles, nutritional content, and health-promoting properties.PMID:39967113 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115759

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115740. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115740. Epub 2025 Jan 16.ABSTRACTBiomarkers of food intake (BFIs) for whole grains (WGs) would enable more precise dietary assessments and help investigate WG's health effects. However, no reports have been published on the biomarkers that reflect the intake of WG wheat in the Chinese diet. In an acute, randomized, crossover intervention study performed on 22 Chinese subjects, WG wheat BFI candidates were screened using an LC-HRMS untargeted metabolomics technique. Screening results indicate that alkylresorcinol (AR) metabolites are WG wheat-specific metabolites. These metabolites were systematically characterized by in vitro metabolism reaction, and the matched high-throughput LC-MS/MS-targeted quantitative method was developed. Time-response plots generated via targeted analysis revealed AR oxidation products (AR-OOH) and their sulfate conjugates (AR-OOH-sul) increased rapidly following the WG wheat consumption, which were identified as novel and short-term WG wheat BFIs. Another attractive biomarker was glucuronidated ARs (AR-glu), which can distinguish between WG and refined grain (RG) groups 24 h after WG wheat ingestion and is considered a promising medium- and long-term biomarker. Subsequently an independent dose-response study was performed for 38 volunteers who consumed different WG wheat amounts (0, 25, 50 or 100 g) for further validation. Identified BFIs perform well in classifying participants into WG wheat consumers or non-consumers, and could capture dose-dependent changes with WG intake increased. Overall, this is the first study to discover and validate WG BFIs in the Chinese population via dietary intervention trials, indicating the potential usefulness for WG wheat intake assessments and dietary compliance monitoring. Future work will examine their use in large-scale free-living populations.PMID:39967107 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115740

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115739. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115739. Epub 2025 Jan 13.ABSTRACTThe direct-to-business product is the core sector for the sustainable production of all kinds of direct-to-consumer fruit and vegetable products. Additionally, it's also an effective way to reduce fruit and postharvest loss. However, unlike other agri-foods, few studies focus on the quality of frozen fruit juice. Fruit juice freezing is a vital practice to ensure sustainable supply chain in food and beverage industry. Our research centered on a six-year monitoring analysis of unpasteurized and pasteurized frozen orange juice. We examined the metabolite and peptide profiles using metabolomics and peptidomics approaches, as well as assessing angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition activity through a rapid ACE assay. Based on metabolomics and peptidomics analysis of orange juice, low-abundance peptides in orange juice have demonstrated a heightened sensitivity to frozen storage and pasteurization processing, outperforming overall metabolites. Frozen storage and pasteurization processing affect the level of predicted bioactive peptides as well as ACE inhibition activity in orange juice, and the peptide-rich fraction contributes to the ACE inhibition activity of orange juice. We synthesized 14 peptides and measured their ACE inhibition activity. Five strong ACE inhibitory peptides with IC50 values ranging from 0.31 to 1.93 mg/mL were identified, and their concentrations were found to decrease after frozen storage and pasteurization. As far as we know, this study is the first to focus on low-abundance peptides in industrial samples of orange juice, providing data on their alterations during a six-year monitoring analysis of frozen storage and before and after pasteurization.PMID:39967106 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115739

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115727. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115727. Epub 2025 Jan 16.ABSTRACTHickory (Carya cathayensis Sarg.) is a unique economic tree species in China, and its nuts are rich in nutrition. However, its seed coat harbors abundant astringent compounds including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and others, necessitating their removal prior to consumption. Traditional high-temperature boiling, while effective in reducing astringency, incurs nutrient loss, environmental pollution, and elevates processing costs. Consequently, there is a pressing need to improve de-astringency techniques for hickory nuts. Using widely-targeted metabolomics, electronic nose analysis and other techniques, the effects of microbial tannase on the astringency, nutrient composition and flavor of hickory nuts were explored. Herein, it was found that the astringency, total phenol and condensed tannins of hickory nut were significantly reduced after the treatment with microbial tannase. Widely-targeted metabolomics analysis further unveiled that most of the phenols, flavones and tannins containing gallic ester linkages in hickory were degraded upon microbial tannase treatment, suggesting that the primary mechanism by which microbial tannase exerts its de-astringent effects may lie in the targeted hydrolysis of galloyl-containing compounds. Notably, the tannase-treated hickory kernels demonstrated a notable retention of nutrients such as soluble proteins and total oils compared to boiled hickory kernels, highlighting its gentle processing nature. In terms of aroma, the tannase-treated hickory kernels were more similar to the non-treated, owing to the preservation of a higher content of pyrazines, pyrans, furans, esters, and alcohols associated with fruity, floral, butterscotch, and sweetness of hickory nuts. These results suggest that microbial tannase can effectively reduce the astringency and preserve the volatilecompounds of hickory nut, providing a theoretical basis for developing a novel and green de-astringent technology for the hickory nut processing industry.PMID:39967103 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115727

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115577. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115577. Epub 2025 Jan 2.ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a functional probiotic cheese (FPC) on gut microbiota (GM), after simulated digestion performed by a multi-unit in vitro colon model (MICODE). Squacquerone-like cheese was produced using the starter Streptococcus thermophilus (control, CTRL), and supplemented with the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, which was either subjected to high pressure homogenization (LrH) or not (Lr). Samples were stratified by cheese type, storage time, and colonic fermentation phase. Samples were then digested with MICODE and digests were characterized for ecological and functional profiles. The lactobacilli detected in Lr and LrH cheeses (9.0 log CFU/g) were represented by the probiotic strain L. rhamnosus and remained unchanged after storage at 4 °C. Lactobacilli levels in CTRLs increased from 1.5 log CFU/g to 2.0 log CFU/g after six days at 4 °C, while total coliforms remained below 1.5 log CFU/g in all samples. Real-time qPCR indicated a positive GM response after FPC simulated digestion, highlighting an abundance of bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and Clostridium group IV in LrH samples. Metataxonomy revealed higher levels of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria (p ≤ 0.05) after simulated digestion, as well as Megasphaera, Escherichia, Prevotella and Dorea. Moreover, an increase of short and medium chain fatty acids were detected by metabolomics. Overexpression of inferred KEGG metabolic pathways showed mainly fatty acids, novobiocin and amino acid metabolism. Understanding how functional foods can modify the GM may lead to the development of targeted microbiome-based therapies and the exploitation of these foods for the benefit of human health.PMID:39967085 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115577

Food Res Int. 2025 Feb;202:115555. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115555. Epub 2024 Dec 30.ABSTRACTThis study investigates the therapeutic potential of theabrownin, a polymer from Tibetan tea, in reducing ethanol-induced developmental abnormalities using a zebrafish model. Zebrafish embryos were pretreated with varying concentrations of theabrownin before ethanol exposure, followed by an assessment of their developmental morphology, oxidative stress markers, and metabolic pathways. The 100 µg/mL dose yielded the most significant reduction in malformations, while the 50 µg/mL and 200 µg/mL doses also demonstrated moderate improvements. Mechanistic analysis showed that theabrownin significantly decreased reactive oxygen species, enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduced malondialdehyde levels, alleviating oxidative stress. Furthermore, metabolomic profiling revealed that theabrownin modulates the metabolism of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, leucine, and proline-metabolites essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. These findings highlight the potential of theabrownin as a therapeutic agent for preventing the harmful effects of prenatal alcohol exposure.PMID:39967082 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115555

Sci Rep. 2025 Feb 18;15(1):5870. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-90484-4.ABSTRACTHeat stress and other factors cause the loss of endosymbiotic dinoflagellates by corals, and is known as coral bleaching. Coral reef bleaching is a global environmental problem. To better understand corals' responses and adaptability to stressful conditions, we applied a lipidomic approach in combination with cytometry and microscopy to study the coral bleaching of Acropora aspera under heat stress (32 °C) and subsequent recovery. For eight days of bleaching, the coral lost 50% of its symbiont population and 100% after a week of recovery. It took 126 days to fully recover the symbiont population, content of chlorophyll a and reserve lipids. There were degradations in symbionts' thylakoids and disruption of thylakoid lipid homeostasis. Variations in the content of phosphatidylinositols involved in apoptosis and autophagy and changes in the molecular profile of glycosylceramides that may be involved in the sphingosine rheostat were observed. However, upon A. aspera bleaching, the loss of symbionts was compensated by increased mucociliary nutrition. An increase in the content of hydroxylated ceramideaminoethylphosphonates for membrane stabilization and a decrease in ether phosphatidylethanolamines for providing protection from oxidative stress may have been used as adaptation mechanisms by the coral host. Thus, the coral undergoes physiological and biochemical changes during heat stress that are aimed at mitigating the adverse destructive effects, which may be key to successful recovery.PMID:39966672 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-025-90484-4

Sci Rep. 2025 Feb 19;15(1):6005. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-90595-y.ABSTRACTVetiveria zizanioides, renowned for its robust stability and exceptional capacity to sequester heavy metals, has garnered widespread application in tailings ecological restoration efforts. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which are capable of forming symbiotic relationships with more than 80% of terrestrial plant roots, play a pivotal role in enhancing plant nutrient uptake and bolstering resilience. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation into the physiological and biochemical responses of Vetiveria zizanioides subjected to varying levels of copper stress (with copper concentrations ranging from 0 mg/kg to 400 mg/kg), with or without AMF inoculation. Additionally, we performed nontargeted metabonomic analyses to gain deeper insights into the metabolic changes that occur in vetiver grass under AMF inoculation and copper stress. Our findings revealed that Vetiveria zizanioides inoculated with AMF consistently demonstrated superior growth performance across all copper stress levels compared with noninoculated counterparts. Using nontargeted metabonomic analyses, inoculation with AMF affects the metabolism of phenylalanine and related pathways in vetiver as well as contributing to the promotion of the formation of phytochelatins (PCs) from glutamate, thereby alleviating copper stress. The results highlight the potential of AMF-inoculated Vetiveria zizanioides as a promising bioremediation tool capable of effectively mitigating the adverse effects of heavy metal pollution.PMID:39966475 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-025-90595-y

BMC Plant Biol. 2025 Feb 18;25(1):212. doi: 10.1186/s12870-025-06239-w.ABSTRACTAmomum tsaoko is a significant medicinal and edible plant with documented efficacy in the treatment of various diseases. Additionally, it is a crucial food additive and spice. 1,8-cineole and curcumin are the main bioactive compounds of A. tsaoko, and research on these compounds has mainly focused on their chemical composition and pharmacological activity, with relatively less exploration of synthetic pathways and identification of key genes. This study employed transcriptome sequencing and metabolomic analysis of A. tsaoko at five different developmental stages (May fruit - September fruit) to assess the accumulation patterns of terpenoid and curcuminoid compounds and to explore the key genes and transcription factors (TFs) involved in their synthesis pathways. The results showed that three genes encoding 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (DXS), hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase (HMGCS) and phosphomevalonate kinase (mvaK2) and TFs such as AP2-ERF, bHLH, WRKY were screened for involvement in terpenoid biosynthesis. In addition, three genes encoding trans-cinnamate 4-monooxygenase (C4H), curcumin synthase (CURS) and TFs such as MYB, bHLH, bZIP were screened for involvement in curcuminoid biosynthesis. This study provides a theoretical foundation for further research into the biosynthesis of active components in A. tsaoko, establishing a basis for in-depth investigations into the mechanisms underlying its medicinal quality formation. Additionally, it offers guidance for the utilisation of its aromatic components and natural pigments.PMID:39966750 | DOI:10.1186/s12870-025-06239-w

BMC Psychiatry. 2025 Feb 18;25(1):142. doi: 10.1186/s12888-025-06584-y.ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: The aim of this research was to characterize changes in peripheral blood neurotransmitter metabolites in olanzapine-treated schizophrenia (SCZ) and to identify potential biomarkers for SCZ. Concurrently, the relationship between these differential neurotransmitters and cognitive function is explored.METHODS: We recruited 40 SCZ treated with single-agent olanzapine and 40 healthy controls (HC). Cognitive function and psychopathology were assessed using the MCCB and PANSS, respectively. Neurotransmitter levels were determined by targeted metabolomics approach using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS).RESULTS: SCZ showed cognitive impairment in all domains of the MCCB compared to HC. Interestingly, a 4-neurotransmitter panel consisting of 3-Methoxytyramine hydrochloride (3-MT), 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetate (DOPAC), arginine, and r-aminobutyric acid (GABA) illustrated the highest determinative score between SCZ and HC. Arginine was positively correlated with PANSS general psychopathology scores. 3-MT independently predicted the verbal learning scores only in SCZ, whereas GABA independently predicted the social cognition scores only. Furthermore, GABA independently predicted the working memory scores only in HC.CONCLUSIONS: The collective assessment of these four neurotransmitters (3-MT, DOPAC, arginine, and GABA) holds considerable promise as potential biomarkers for SCZ. Moreover, 3-MT and GABA may enhance our understanding of cognitive dysfunction in SCZ, particularly in areas of verbal learning and social cognitive dysfunction.PMID:39966737 | DOI:10.1186/s12888-025-06584-y

BMC Plant Biol. 2025 Feb 18;25(1):217. doi: 10.1186/s12870-025-06054-3.ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Dendrobium orchids (Dendrobium spp.) are valuable medicinal and attractive ornamental plants. Due to their limited wild resources, the size of the Dendrobium spp. population required for market demand primarily depends on artificial cultivation. However, the nutritional and therapeutic value of natural products may differ as growth conditions change. In this study, we profiled metabolites from wild and cultivated Dendrobium flexicaule (D. flexicaule) to explore the variations and interrelationships among bioactive components.RESULTS: A total of 840 annotated metabolites were discovered, 231 of which differed significantly between wild and cultivated D. flexicaule. A comparative investigation found that the types and amounts of metabolites, particularly flavonoids, lipids, amino acids and their derivatives, varied between wild and cultivated D. flexicaule. Using metabolite correlation analysis, a series of differentially abundant metabolites were found to be significantly correlated with phytohormones such as abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and zeatins, indicating that plant hormones play a role in the accumulation of specific metabolites. Furthermore, many distinct metabolites were identified as key active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicines. Additionally, 78 components were discovered to be active pharmaceutical substances against various diseases, probably contributing to the diverse medical values of wild and cultivated D. flexicaule.CONCLUSIONS: Overall, comprehensively analyzed the metabolic profiles of wild and cultivated D. flexicaule in this study, serving as a theoretical and material foundation for quality control, health efficacy, and industrial development.PMID:39966726 | DOI:10.1186/s12870-025-06054-3