Mineral Absorption Research Articles

Selenium mitigates vanadium toxicity through enhanced nutrition, photosynthesis, and antioxidant defense in rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings.

In the current industrial scenario, vanadium (V) as a metal is of great importance but poses a major threat to the ecosystem. In the present study, the effect of a toxic concentration of V, i.e., 10 µM in the soil on growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange characteristics, oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidants machinery (enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants), ions uptake, proline metabolism, and V uptake in different parts of the plant was investigated with and without the exogenous application of selenium (Se) i.e., 5 µM in V-stressed rice (Oryza sativa L.). Our results depicted that V addition to the soil significantly (P < 0.05) decreased plant growth and biomass, gas exchange attributes, and minerals uptake by O. sativa as compared to the plants grown without the addition of V. However, V toxicity boosted the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by increasing the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), which is the indication of oxidative stress in O. sativa and was also manifested by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents to the membrane-bounded organelles. Although activities of various antioxidative enzymes like superoxidase dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and their gene expression Fe-SOD, POD, CAT, and APX and also non-enzymatic antioxidants like phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid, anthocyanin contents and also the proline metabolism i.e., proline, pyrroline5-carboxylate, pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase, and pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase were increased due to V stress. Although results also illustrated that the application of Se also decreased V toxicity in O. sativa seedlings by increasing antioxidant capacity and, thus, improved the plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange characteristics, and decreased oxidative stress in the O. sativa seedlings, compared to those plants which were not artificially supplied by Se. Research findings, therefore, suggested that the Se application can ameliorate V toxicity in O. sativa seedlings and result in improved plant growth and composition under metal stress as depicted by balanced exudation of nutrient effluxes. This study provides novel insights into the role of selenium in mitigating vanadium-induced oxidative stress in rice, thereby offering a promising approach to enhancing crop resilience in metal-contaminated soils and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.

Comparative transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of FTO knockout and wild-type porcine iliac artery endothelial cells.

The fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) gene, previously identified as a pivotal genetic locus associated with adiposity, has recently been linked to various cancers. In this study, we established an FTO knockout (KO) cell line in porcine iliac artery endothelial cells (PIECs) utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology to systematically investigate the gene's function and effect through transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis. Our results revealed significant gene expression and metabolic profiles differences between the FTO KO and wild-type (WT) cells. Furthermore, enrichment analysis highlighted the involvement of differentially expressed genes in metabolic processes, cellular components, and molecular functions, as well as in complement and coagulation cascades, mineral absorption, glutathione metabolism, insulin signaling, fluid shear stress, and atherosclerosis pathways. The metabolomic profiling revealed clear distinctions between the FTO KO and WT cells, indicating profound modifications in cellular metabolism. Correlation analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed a significant association between six metabolites and twenty genes, with melatonin showing specific correlations with the expression of several genes, indicating a complex regulatory network between gene expression and metabolic changes. This study provides a foundation for further research on the FTO gene's role in cellular processes and molecular mechanisms underlying physiological and pathological conditions.

Melatonin Priming Regulates Mineral Uptake, Osmolite Accumulation, and Cell Wall Structure in Buckwheat Under Cadmium Stress

Melatonin Priming Regulates Mineral Uptake, Osmolite Accumulation, and Cell Wall Structure in Buckwheat Under Cadmium Stress

Effect of Partial or Complete Replacement of Dietary Inorganic Trace Minerals Supplement with an Advanced Chelated Source on Nutrient Digestibility in Sheep

The delicate balance of trace mineral supplementation is critical for optimizing rumen function and overall ruminant health. This study evaluated the solubility of an advanced chelate technology-based supplement and assessed its impact on rumen degradability and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) when replacing inorganic sources. The solubility of the advanced trace minerals supplement (ACTM) was assessed at pH 5 and pH 2. In situ ruminal degradability of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and fiber fractions was evaluated using two fistulated rams fed diets supplemented with either ACTM or inorganic trace minerals. ATTD was determined in 6 lambs fed diets supplemented with 100% ACTM, 50% ACTM, and 50% inorganic (50% ACTM), or 100% inorganic sources in a Latin square design. Results showed solubilities ranging from 6.75% to 11.81% at pH 5, increasing to 69.24% to 80.47% at pH 2. ACTM supplementation significantly enhanced the rumen degradability of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) at 6 h of incubation (p ≤ 0.05). The 100% ACTM treatment significantly decreased rumen pH (p = 0.051) and improved DM, OM, NDF, and ADF digestibility, as well as trace mineral absorbability compared to 100% inorganic (p ≤ 0.05). These findings highlight the potential of ACTM supplementation to enhance ruminal degradability, promote better trace mineral absorption, and improve the ATTD of nutrients compared to inorganic sources.

Low protein diet influences mineral absorption and utilization in medium-growing yellow-feathered broilers from 1 to 30 days of age

Reduced-protein diet can save protein ingredients and reduce nitrogen (N) losses. However, the effect of low protein diet on the mineral uptake and utilization in broilers needs to be explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low-protein diet on the growth performance, N deposition, mineral contents in serum, tissues and excreta, and the activities and gene expression of related enzymes in tissues of medium-growing yellow-feathered broilers, so as to elucidate the relationship between dietary protein level and the absorption and utilization of minerals in broilers. A total of 72 1-d-old Spotted-Brown male broilers were randomly allotted to 1 of 2 treatments with 6 replicate cages of 6 birds per cage for each treatment. The dietary crude protein (CP) levels for the two treatments were 21 % (the control treatment) and 19 % (low protein treatment), respectively. The experimental period was 30 d. The results showed that no differences (P > 0.05) were detected in average daily gain, average daily feed intake and feed: gain ratio of broilers during 1 to 30 d between the two treatments. However, low protein intake increased (P < 0.05) N retention rate, serum P, Cu and Mn, and excreta Cu, Mn and Zn, and decreased (P < 0.05) liver P and excreta P. In addition, birds fed low protein diet had higher (P < 0.05) manganese superoxide dismutase, and total superoxide dismutase activities in liver, and total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde content in heart, and lower (P < 0.05) copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) and succinate dehydrogenase activities in liver and CuZnSOD mRNA level in heart. In conclusion, the reduction of dietary CP content from 21 % to 19 % improved N retention, the absorption of P, Cu and Mn, as well as the antioxidant ability of liver and heart, and influenced metabolic utilization of P, Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn in medium-growing yellow-feathered broilers from 1 to 30 d of age.

Chronic constipation: focus on microbiome-targeted therapies with prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics

Chronic constipation is a global medical, social, and economic problem due to its negative impact on patients’ quality of life and increased risk of colorectal cancer, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders. The gut microbiota plays an important role in the pathophysiology of constipation through its interplay with the immune system, enteral and central nervous system, representing a promising therapeutic target. Gut dysbiosis in patients with constipation is characterized by reduced relative numbers of bacteria producing lactate (Lactobacillaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae) and butyrate (Lachnospiraceae, Oscillospiraceae), as well as with increased numbers of those producing hydrogen sulfide (Desulfovibrionaceae) and methanogenic archaea (Methanobacteriaceae). The leading pathogenetic mechanism related to intestinal dysbiosis in chronic constipation, can be microbial metabolic abnormalities (metabolic dysbiosis) characterized by altered production of short-chain fatty acid, methane, hydrogen sulfide, tryptophan metabolites and by abnormal bile acid biotransformation. It has been proven that dysbiotic abnormalities of the intestinal microbiome play a role in the pathophysiology of constipation, which allows for the use of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics for effective microbiome-modulating therapy in patients with chronic constipation. The proven role of dysbiotic abnormalities of the intestinal microbiome in the pathophysiology of chronic constipation determines the effectiveness of microbiome-modulating therapy (prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics) in patients with this syndrome. Inulin is the most studied preboitic; it is a soluble food fiber that markedly contributes to the regulation of intestinal microbiota, stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria, and production of anti-inflammatory metabolites. Inulin normalized the intestinal function in patients with chronic constipation increasing the stool frequency, softening the stool, and reducing the intestinal transit time. In addition, inulin modulates the immune response and impacts the absorption of minerals, appetite, and satiety. Treatment with probiotics is also associated with reduced intestinal transit time, compared to controls. According to a systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 randomized controlled trials, only Bifidobacterium lactis strains (but not other probiotics) significantly increase stool frequencies in chronic constipation in adults. Clinical studies have shown that the targeted probiotic Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 can significantly increase the stool frequencies in patients with low (≤ 3 per week) stool frequency up to 4.7–5.0 per week, reduce the intestinal transit time and the rate of functional gastroenterological symptoms in adults with constipation. Beyond its clinical effects, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 leads to beneficial changes in intestinal microbiota, significantly increasing the bifidobacteria and decreasing the enterobacteria numbers. The results of trials confirm the importance of synbiotic correction of dysbiotic microbiota in all patients with constipation to increase stool frequencies and improve fecal consistency, as well as to prevent the chronic disorders associated with constipation. Synbiotics, such as a combination of Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 and inulin, with the properties of both complementary and synergic synbiotic, may have the greatest microbiome-modulating and functional potential to significantly improve clinical outcomes in patients with chronic constipation compared to probiotics or prebiotics used alone.

Transcriptional responses to diets without mineral phosphorus supplementation in the jejunum of two high-yielding laying hen strains

Phosphorus (P) is an essential mineral for all forms of life including laying hens, playing a crucial role in growth and efficient egg production. Recent studies suggest that current P recommendations might exceed the physiological demand, leading to unnecessarily high P excretions. This study on Lohmann Brown (LB) and Lohmann Selected Leghorn (LSL) laying hens (n=80; 10 replicates per strain, production period, and dietary group) investigates transcriptional changes in the jejunum, a critical intestinal segment for mineral absorption, in response to a diet either without (P-) or with (P+) a mineral supplement from monocalcium phosphate, administered over a 4-week period during the transition (15–19 weeks) or onset of laying (20–24 weeks). DESeq2 analysis of RNA sequencing data revealed that most differentially expressed genes (DEGs) varied between strains and age groups, with less pronounced effects from dietary mineral P content. The 19-week-old LB hens showed a stronger response to dietary mineral P removal, with transcripts affiliated with increased adaptation of the metabolism and decreased immune pathway activation. The identified pathways such as folate biosynthesis and p53 signaling, potentially link altered energy and amino acid metabolism (2-oxocarboxylic acid and arginine). Interestingly, genes involved in calcium transport (CALB1) and cellular signaling (PRKCA, STEAP4) along with tight junctions (CLDN2) were affected by complete removal of mineral P supplements, suggesting a promoted intestinal mineral uptake. Transcriptional regulation in the jejunum in response to low dietary mineral content is strain-specific when the laying phase begins, which may contribute to a physiological Ca:P ratio.

Saga of Soggy Sauerkraut

The creation of undesirable (soggy) sauerkraut resulted in the loss of $1,000,000 worth of organic sauerkraut in 2022, which prompted a multistep investigation of the cause and potential solution. The cause of this condition has been previously reported as unique fermentation conditions and the lack of key trace nutrients essential for cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) cell wall integrity. Because the condition was limited to organic sauerkraut in 2022, this investigation initially focused on differences in fermentation conditions between organic and conventional sauerkraut. No differences in fermentation conditions accounted for the condition; therefore, attention was focused on analyzing the mineral content of cabbage grown for sauerkraut production that pinpointed a deficiency in critical micronutrients such as iron, copper, manganese, boron, and zinc. This deficiency was traced to the use of poultry manure that was contaminated with glyphosate residue from conventionally fed turkeys and chickens that consumed genetically engineered (GE) feed and used as the fertilizer for organic cabbage production. The presence of glyphosate, a potent mineral chelator and antibiotic, was identified as a significant factor that impairs the absorption and physiological function of essential minerals in the shikimate metabolic pathway whereby cell walls and lignin are produced, thus compromising the structural quality of the sauerkraut. After this discovery, the study progressed to evaluate various remediation strategies aimed at eliminating glyphosate from the soil and restoring nutrient uptake. Corn grain and silage were selected as the test crops for this phase. Among the tested remediation solutions were raw sauerkraut juice containing Lactobacillus plantarum, which is reported to degrade glyphosate in the rumen of dairy cows and two patented proprietary microbial mixtures, PB027 and PB027SK, that degrade glyphosate by all three of the known metabolic pathways. These treatments were specifically formulated to degrade residual glyphosate in the soil. The results showed that these interventions could reduce soil glyphosate levels by 80% to 90% within 6 to 7 months to significantly enhance both the yield and quality of corn grain and silage. The increase in corn grain yield from glyphosate degradation on the Shiocton silt loam soil was 907.89 kg·ha−1 (13.5 bushels/acre). The increase in yield on the irrigated Kidder sandy loam soil was quantified at 726.31 kg·ha−1 (10.8 bushels/acre) for corn grain and 6.62 t·ha−1 (2.68 t/acre) for silage, with an additional improvement in silage feed quality beneficial for milk production. The findings underscore the importance of addressing both micronutrient sufficiency and glyphosate residue in soil to ensure the optimal growth of cabbage and the quality of sauerkraut produced. By successfully identifying manure as a subtle source of nutrient immobilization and implementing effective soil remediation techniques, this research highlights a clear path forward for improving crop yield and quality to ultimately enhance the structural integrity and consumer acceptance of sauerkraut. This study has broader applications for the nutritional content and crop yields of many organic crops that use conventional poultry and animal manures that may contain glyphosate in desiccated plant tissues or GE feeding operations.

Research on the Mechanisms of Phytohormone Signaling in Regulating Root Development.

Phytohormones are organic compounds produced in trace amounts within plants that regulate their physiological processes. Their physiological effects are highly complex and diverse. They influence processes ranging from cell division, elongation, and differentiation to plant germination and rooting. Therefore, phytohormones play a crucial regulatory role in plant growth and development. Recently, various studies have highlighted the role of PHs, such as auxin, cytokinin (CK), and abscisic acid (ABA), and newer classes of PHs, such as brassinosteroid (BR) and peptide hormone, in the plant responses toward environmental stresses. These hormones not only have distinct roles at different stages of plant growth but also interact to promote or inhibit each other, thus effectively regulating plant development. Roots are the primary organs for water and mineral absorption in plants. During seed germination, the radicle breaks through the seed coat and grows downward to form the primary root. This occurs because the root needs to quickly penetrate the soil to absorb water and nutrients, providing essential support for the plant's subsequent growth. Root development is a highly complex and precisely regulated process influenced by various signals. Changes in root architecture can affect the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and water, which in turn impacts crop yield. Thus, studying the regulation of root development is of great significance. Numerous studies have reported on the role of phytohormones, particularly auxins, in root regulation. This paper reviews recent studies on the regulation of root development by various phytohormones, both individually and in combination, providing a reference for researchers in this field and offering perspectives on future research directions for improving crop yields.

Exploring the Role of Cuprotosis-Associated Genes in Cancer Progression and Therapy Resistance: A Comprehensive Analysis across Multiple Cancer Types

This review presents a comprehensive overview of the role of cuprotosis-associated genes in various cancer types, highlighting their significance in tumor progression and therapy resistance. In breast cancer and colorectal cancer (CRC), dysregulation of genes involved in mitochondrial function and copper metabolism, such as FDX1, LIAS, LIPT1, DLD, DLAT, and PDHA1/PDHB, promotes metabolic reprogramming and enhances cancer cell survival. Ovarian cancer exhibits unique dysregulations in genes like ATP7B, CCS, and COMMD1, influencing copper metabolism and redox signaling pathways, thereby contributing to chemoresistance and tumor growth. Head and neck cancer involves upregulation of MT1X, ATP7A, and CCS, potentially aiding cancer cell survival under oxidative stress conditions. Lung cancer is characterized by distinct dysregulation of genes like SLC31A1, ATOX1, and COMMD1, modulating copper homeostasis and redox signaling to support tumor proliferation. Liver cancer and kidney cancer each present unique sets of dysregulated cuprotosis-associated genes, such as SLC39A4, SCO2, and ATP7A, suggesting novel therapeutic targets specific to these cancer types. Pathway analysis reveals enrichment in mineral absorption pathways, emphasizing the importance of these genes in maintaining cellular mineral homeostasis. Understanding the intricate interplay between cuprotosis-associated genes and cancer biology offers insights into potential therapeutic strategies targeting copper metabolism for improved treatment outcomes across various cancer types.

Mitigating the Adverse Effects of Salt Stress on Pepper Plants Through Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and Beneficial Bacterial (PGPR) Inoculation

This study investigates arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), and their combined application under salt stress (200 mM NaCl), emphasizing their synergistic potential to enhance plant resilience. Conducted in a controlled climate chamber, key parameters such as plant height, biomass, SPAD values, ion leakage, relative water content (RWC), osmotic potential, and mineral uptake were assessed. Salt stress significantly reduced plant growth, chlorophyll content, and nutrient absorption. However, AMF and PGPR improved plant performance, with co-inoculation showing the highest efficacy in increasing RWC, nutrient uptake, and maintaining membrane stability. AMF and PGPR treatments enhanced potassium retention and reduced sodium and chloride accumulation, mitigating ionic imbalances. The improved chlorophyll content and water relations under co-inoculation demonstrate the potential of these biostimulants to boost photosynthesis and plant resilience. These findings highlight AMF and PGPR as eco-friendly solutions for sustainable agriculture, promoting crop productivity and stress tolerance under saline conditions.

Mitigating effects of Nigeria seaweed phytonutrients on biochemical and physiological conditions of Lycopersicon esculentum under heavy metal-induced abiotic stress

Abiotic stress has become a significant issue in recent years, affecting various physiological and biochemical aspects of crops and threatening food security. This study aimed to investigate the effects of seaweed on the biochemical and physiological conditions of Lycopersicon esculentum under heavy metal-induced abiotic stress. Lycopersicon esculentum plants were grown in greenhouse bags for four weeks and then exposed to 0.10M Pb Nitrate. They were divided into six groups: one control group sprayed with tap water and five experimental groups sprayed with different seaweed concentrations (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%). Results showed that abiotic stress led to notable decreases in root length, shoot length, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, Rubisco activity, and carotenoids by 48%, 47% 38%, 65%, 61%, 77%, 75%, and 68%, respectively. Seaweed treatment improved these indices, with the 80% seaweed group showing increases of 27%, 21%, 44%, 36%, 56%, and 48%, 54% after 21 days. Additionally, seaweed application enhanced antioxidant activities in the roots (SOD by 71%, CAT by 45%, POD by 51%, and APX by 92%) and in the leaves (SOD by 18%, CAT by 26%, POD by 34%, APX by 58%) compared to the control. The study concluded that seaweeds significantly mitigated oxidative stress in plants, boosting growth, antioxidant potential, mineral absorption, and osmotic protection. Nigeria seaweeds could be a promising tool to enhance food production by reducing oxidative stress in crops.

Effects of Biostimulants on the Eco-Physiological Traits and Fruit Quality of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.).

Biostimulants contribute to the physiological growth of plants by enhancing the quality characteristics of fruit without harming the environment. In addition, biostimulants applied to plants strengthen nutritional efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance, and fruit biochemical traits. We investigated the effectiveness of specific organic biostimulants. Five treatments were tested: (1) control (H2O, no biostimulants); (2) Magnablue + Keyplex 350 (Mgl + Kpl350); (3) Cropobiolife + Keyplex 120 (Cpl + Kpl120); (4) Keyplex 120 (Kpl120); and (5) Magnablue + Cropobiolife + Keyplex 120 (Mgl + Cpl + Kpl120) on the mineral uptake and physiology in black chokeberry (Aronia) plants, as well as the quality of their berries. The different treatments were applied to three-year-old chokeberry plants, and the experimental process in the field lasted from May to September 2022 until the harvest of ripe fruits. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) revealed that the fifth treatment significantly increased concentrations of P, Ca, and K. Additionally, the fifth treatment enhanced photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), water-splitting efficiency (Fv/Fo) in PSII, and the performance index (PI) of both PSI and PSII in chokeberry leaves. Improvements in photosynthesis, such as CO2 assimilation (A), transpiration (E), and water-use efficiency (A/E), were also noted under biostimulant applications. Upon harvesting the ripe fruits, part of them was placed at room temperature at 25 °C, while the rest were stored at 4 °C, RH 90% for 7 days. The cultivation with biostimulants had beneficial effects on the maintenance of flesh consistency, ascorbic acid concentration, and weight of berries at 4 and 25 °C, especially in the 5th treatment. Moreover, the total antioxidant capacity, anthocyanin concentration, and total phenols of the berries were notably higher in the third and fifth treatments compared to the control. These data suggest that selecting appropriate biostimulants can enhance plant yield and fruit quality by potentially activating secondary metabolite pathways.

The Effect of Copper Nanoparticles on Liver Metabolism Depends on the Type of Dietary Fiber.

A diet enriched with copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) exhibits a wide range of effects on liver metabolism, both positive and negative. Dietary fibers are the key components that may affect the absorption of minerals, including copper, and change their impact on organisms. Therefore, this study investigated whether and how supplementation with different sources of dietary fiber (cellulose, pectin, inulin, and psyllium) affects the function of CuNPs in the liver of male Wistar rats. The results showed that CuNPs at different doses had varying effects on lipid metabolism and inflammation in the liver. Specifically, higher doses of CuNPs were associated with increased lipid accumulation and the activation of pro-inflammatory mechanisms. However, combining CuNPs with dietary fibers, such as psyllium and inulin, was beneficial in mitigating the effects of the examined nanoparticles, leading to reduced fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the liver. Combining psyllium with CuNPs showed the most substantial effect on liver metabolism and inflammation parameters. Furthermore, hepatic histology analyses showed that adding psyllium to the diet with CuNPs reduces changes associated with fat accumulation and mononuclear cell infiltration. The observed beneficial changes in the liver may have been related to a reduction in the gene expression level of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and cyclooxygenase-2. In conclusion, enriching the diet with dietary fibers such as psyllium can regulate the action of CuNPs, thereby improving lipid metabolism and reducing inflammation in the liver.

ANPS: machine learning based server for identification of anti-nutritional proteins in plants.

Anti-nutrient factors are inherently present in almost all major crops, which impede the absorption of crucial vitamins and minerals upon human consumption. The commonly found anti-nutrients in food crops are saponins, tannins, lectins, and phytates etc. Currently, there is a lack of computational server for identification of proteins that encode for anti-nutritional factors in plants. Consequently, this study represents a computational approach aimed at distinguishing between proteins encoding anti-nutritional factors and those providing essential nutrients. In this work, machine learning algorithms have been employed to identify plant specific anti-nutrient factor proteins from protein sequences by using compositional features. Achieving a five-fold cross-validation training performance of 94.34% AUC-ROC and 94.13% AUC-PR with extreme gradient boosting surpasses the performance of other methods such as support vector machine, random forest, and adaptive boosting. These results suggest the proposed approach is highly reliable in predicting plant-specific anti-nutritional factor proteins. The resulting prediction models have led to the development of an online server named ANPS, freely available at https://nipb-bi.icar.gov.in .

Synergizing Bacillus halotolerans, Pseudomonas sihuiensis and Bacillus atrophaeus with folic acid for enhanced drought resistance in wheat by metabolites and antioxidants

Drought stress imposes a serious challenge to cultivate wheat, restricting its growth. Drought reduces the capability of plant to uptake essential nutrients. This causes stunted growth, development and yield. Traditional ways to increase wheat growth under drought stress have shortcomings. Using plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has proved feasible and eco-friendly way to enhance wheat growth even under the drought stress. Combining PGPR in consortiums further boosts up their effects. In this study, we have checked the efficacy of drought-tolerant Bacillus halotolerans, Pseudomonas sihuiensis and Bacillus atrophaeus in combination. These strains were allowed to grow on PEG 6000 with concentrations (-0.15, -0.49, -0.73 and − 1.2) Mega Pascal (MPa) alone and in combination. Furthermore, Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used. Their biochemical traits such as solubilization of K, P and Zn and the synthesis of siderophore, indole acetic acid (IAA), protease, amylase, hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase were done. In addition to this, we investigated the optimum folic acid concentration i.e 150 ppm for wheat against drought stress. We conducted a pot experiment to check the growth-enhancing and drought-mitigating effects of consortium and folic acid alone and in combination. As a result, we found a significantly increased wheat biomass, relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content, antioxidants including glutathione reductase and total soluble sugars and protein content under all treatments. However, the combined treatment of bacterial consortium and folic acid showed maximum potential to boost wheat growth and survival even under drought. We also investigated the minerals uptake by wheat after the treatments and found maximum nutrient uptake under the co-effect of folic acid and bacterial consortium We believe this is the first study that has investigated the optimal dose of folic acid for wheat. Our research is also novel in that we seek to investigate the effects of folic acid along with a bacterial consortium comprising Bacillus halotolerans, Pseudomonas sihuiensis and Bacillus atrophaeus on wheat grown under the drought stress.

Fermented Quinoa and Canihua in Plant‐Based Diets Increase Iron and Zinc Bioavailability in Growing Rats

ABSTRACTThis study aimed at evaluating the effects of non‐fermented and fermented pseudocereal flours, quinoa and canihua, on iron and zinc bioavailability in Wistar rats. Two diets prepared with 92% fermented quinoa or 79.5% fermented canihua were compared with diets prepared with the same amount of non‐fermented pseudocereals. Other two quinoa diets were prepared with 60% non‐fermented or fermented quinoa and compared with a refence diet which was free of phytates. Body weight, feed efficiency ratio, and the absorption, retention and bioavailability of iron and zinc were evaluated. While body weight and feed efficiency ratio were higher (p &lt; 0.05) in animals after non‐fermented diets, the results of mineral absorption and bioavailability were consistently higher in the diets containing fermented pseudocereals. Iron concentration in the livers of animals after the fermented quinoa (92%) and canihua diet (79.5%), were 34% and 30% higher than after the diets with non‐fermented pseudocereals. Zinc bioavailability, indicated by zinc in femur of animals fed the 60% fermented quinoa diet was 53.2 μg g−1 ZnInt g−1 BW, comparable to that in animals fed a reference diet with no phytates (58.2 μg g−1 ZnInt g−1 BW), and significantly higher (p &lt; 0.05) than in animals fed the non‐fermented quinoa diet (34.5 μg g−1 ZnInt g−1 BW). Zinc bioavailability was mainly influenced by phytate content in the diet (R2 = 0.665 and p = 0.000). The retention of iron in the liver (2220 μg g−1 FeInt g−1 BW) was higher in the diet containing 60% of fermented quinoa than in the non‐fermented diet (1429 μg g−1 ZnInt g−1 BW). Differences in iron absorption were mainly impacted by iron content in the diets (R2 = 0.828 and p = 0.000). In conclusion, the addition of fermented pseudocereals to diets increased the bioavailability of iron and zinc in Wistar rats. These findings will encourage further research into fermented pseudocereals and their potential health effects.

Fluoride Ingestion Induces Formation of Unusual Macromolecular Complexes in Gut Lumen Which Retard Absorption of Essential Minerals and Trace Elements by Chelation.

This study investigates the impact of chronic fluoride exposure on the absorption of essential minerals in the gut and explores the mechanisms underlying mineral deficiencies due to fluoride ingestion. Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups: group 1 (G-1) served as the control (non-fluoride exposed), while group 2 (G-2) and group 3 (G-3) received human equivalent doses (HED) of fluoride (50 and 100ppm ad libitum, corresponding to 5 and 10ppm in humans, respectively) for 75days. Serum fluoride concentrations were measured, and the levels of essential minerals and trace elements in blood and stool were analyzed using ICP-MS. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed on stool samples to identify chemical compounds. The chemical compounds and macromolecular complexes containing fluoride and essential minerals were identified and quantified using Match3 software. Results indicated that the blood concentrations of essential minerals were significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) in the fluoride-exposed groups compared to the control, while excretion of essential elements in stool was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the fluoride-administered groups. XRD analysis revealed the formation of unusual macromolecular chemical complexes in the stool of fluoride-treated groups, with the types and concentrations of these compounds increasing with higher fluoride doses. The study concludes that fluoride in the stomach chelates minerals, reducing their absorption, and induces the formation of unusual high molecular weight macromolecular chelation complexes, which alter the chemical species in the gut and further impair the absorption of essential minerals.

Folic acid ameliorates high glucose–induced neurotoxicity in human forebrain organoids: Insights from proteomics

AbstractPregestational diabetes (PGDM) has been associated with an elevated risk of congenital abnormalities, particularly those affecting the nervous system. The efficacy of folic acid (FA) supplementation in reducing the incidence of neurodevelopmental damage caused by PGDM has been well documented. However, the exact mechanism is unclear. Here, a human forebrain organoid model, which replicates the three‐dimensional structure of the early fetal neural tissue, was employed to study the neuroprotective effects of FA in PGDM. In this study, the forebrain organoids were cultured at high glucose (HG) concentrations from Days 20 to 40 with or without FA. Immunostaining revealed that the supplementation of FA significantly decreased HG‐induced neuron apoptosis. The proteomics examination suggested HG caused an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein expression, a marker of astrocytes, leading to the upregulation of metallothionein expression and perturbation of mineral absorption, whereas FA reversed this effect. Proteomics analysis further showed that FA reduced HG‐induced cell migration. Moreover, Western blot analysis verified that FA mitigated HG‐induced apoptosis and cell migration via AMPK/FOXO pathway. Overall, current findings indicate that FA, as a functional food ingredient, has a protective effect on HG‐induced abnormal fetal neurodevelopment.

Ellagic acid alleviates aluminum and/or drought stress through morpho-physiochemical adjustments and stress-related gene expression in Zea mays L.

This study investigates the potential of ellagic acid (EA) to mitigate the effects of drought and aluminum (Al3+) stresses in maize by examining various morpho-physiochemical parameters and gene expressions. Maize (Zea mays L.) serves as a crucial global food source, but its growth and productivity are significantly hindered by drought and aluminum (Al3+) stresses, which lead to impaired root development, elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), diminished photosynthetic efficiency, and reduced water and mineral absorption. Recently, ellagic acid (EA), a polyphenolic compound with potent antioxidant properties, has been identified for its role in regulating plant growth and enhancing stress tolerance mechanisms. However, the specific mechanisms through which EA contributes to Al3+ and/or drought tolerance in plants remain largely unknown. The present study was conducted to examine the defensive role of EA (100μg/mL) in some morpho-physiochemical parameters and the expression profiles of some stress-related genes (ZmCPK22, ZmXTH1, ZmHIPP4, ZmSGR, ZmpsbA, ZmAPX1, and ZmGST1) in drought (polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000), - 0.6MPa) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3, 60μM) stressed Zea mays Ada 523 grown in nutrient solution. Our results indicated that drought and aluminum chloride stresses affected root length, shoot height, H2O2 content, chlorophyll content (SPAD), electrolyte leakage (EL), and relative water content (RWC) of maize with several significant (P < 0.05) shifts up and down. Conversely, EA (100μg/mL) treatment had a mitigating effect on these parameters. Moreover, EA also mitigated the antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX)), and regulated the expressions of aforementioned genes. These findings determined that EA treatment could efficiently improve the gene expressions and morpho-physiochemical parameters under drought and/or Al3+ stresses, thereby increasing the seedlings' adaptability to these stresses.