Additional Protein Research Articles

Acceptability of Bangus-Clam Sisig

Milkfish is one of the healthy and nutritious fish available, and it is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Mud clams, on the other hand, are rich in Vitamin B12, providing iron and additional protein. Mud clams, with their potential to regulate high blood pressure and support thyroid health, are a promising addition to any diet. Their rich content of riboflavin, choline, minerals, and vitamins, coupled with their low-fat content, make them a healthy choice. This study utilized bangus flakes and clam meat in varying proportions, combined with butter, garlic, chili, onion, liver spread, soy sauce, black pepper, annatto oil, oil, and salt. The objectives of the study were to develop a bangus-mud clam sisig product, evaluate its sensory characteristics (color, odor, taste, and texture) in different formulations, and determine whether there were significant differences in the acceptability of bangus-clam sisig across treatments. Moreover, the study aimed to identify the most preferred formulation (MPF) and assess consumer preferences. The development was performed in five (5) treatments with three (3) replications. The quality of the product was determined through sensory evaluation. The bangus-clam sisig had similar color, odor, taste, texture, and acceptability, regardless of the amount of bangus flakes and mud clam meat added to the formulated product. The addition of bangus and mud clam in the development of sisig, even in varying percentages, had no significant effect on the results in terms of color, odor, taste, and texture. However, during cooking, especially when pan-frying, the skin browns and crisps up. This contributed a significant amount of brown color to the overall dish. The results show that there was no significant difference in the overall acceptability of bangus-clam sisig, regardless of the amount of bangus and clam. All treatments were acceptable. Out of the five (5) treatments, the most preferred formulation consisted of 50% bangus and 50% mud clams. The findings show that most of the faculty employee and college students at the Capiz State University-Dayao Satellite College, preferred the bangus-clam sisig.

Dietary full-fat or defatted black soldier fly larvae can replace protein sources with no detrimental effect on growth performance or intestinal health of nursery pigs.

This work aimed to determine the effects of dietary full-fat or defatted black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) to replace protein sources on growth performance, blood parameters, intestinal morphology, and intestinal microbiota in nursery pigs and to investigate the effects of dietary defatted BSFL at up to 30% at the expense of protein sources on growth performance in nursery pigs. In Exp. 1, a total of 36 barrows with an initial body weight of 7.0kg (standard deviation = 0.8) were allotted to 3 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with 4 replicate pens per treatment and 3 barrows per pen. A corn-soybean meal (SBM)-whey-based control diet was prepared with soy protein concentrate and fish meal as additional protein supplements. Two additional diets were prepared to include 20% full-fat BSFL or 20% defatted BSFL to replace soy protein concentrate and fish meal to maintain the same energy and nutrient concentrations in all diets. In the 28-day feeding trial, pigs fed the diet containing defatted BSFL tended to consume more feeds (P < 0.10) than other groups during days 14 to 28 and the overall period. On day 28, the serum blood urea nitrogen in pigs fed the control diet was less (P < 0.05) than that fed the full-fat or defatted BSFL, but fecal score and jejunal morphology did not differ among the treatment groups. Relative abundance of Mycoplasma in the ileal digesta was less (P < 0.05) in the pigs fed the diet containing full-fat or defatted BSFL compared with the control group. In Exp. 2, a total of 192 pigs with an initial body weight of 7.8 (standard deviation = 1.2kg) were randomly allotted to one of 4 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with 6 replicate pens per treatment and 4 barrows and 4 gilts per pen. A control diet was mainly based on corn, SBM, fermented SBM, fish meal, and spray-dried plasma protein. Three additional diets were prepared to contain 10%, 20%, and 30% defatted BSFL to replace SBM, fermented SBM, fish meal, and spray-dried plasma protein to maintain for the same energy and nutrient concentrations. Average daily gain, average daily feed intake, gain:feed, and fecal score were not affected by increasing dietary defatted BSFL. Overall, dietary black soldier fly larvae did not compromise growth performance or intestinal health in nursery pigs. Black soldier fly larvae can be used in nursery pig diets to replace other protein sources without negative effects.

The actin-binding protein palladin associates with the respiratory syncytial virus matrix protein.

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) matrix (M) protein plays an important role in infection as it can interact with viral components as well as the host cell actin microfilaments. The M-actin interaction may play a role in facilitating the transportation of virion components to the apical surface, where RSV is released. We show that M protein's association with actin is facilitated by palladin, an actin-binding protein. Cells were infected with RSV or transfected to express full-length M as a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged protein, followed by removal of nuclear and cytosolic proteins to enrich for cytoskeleton and its associated proteins. M protein was present in inclusion bodies tethered to microfilaments in infected cells. In transfected cells, GFP-M was presented close to microfilaments, without association, suggesting the possible involvement of an additional protein in this interaction. As palladin can bind to proteins that also bind actin, we investigated its interaction with M. Cells were co-transfected to express GFP-M and palladin as an mCherry fluorescent-tagged protein, followed by cytoskeleton enrichment. M and palladin were observed to colocalize towards microfilaments, suggesting that palladin is involved in the M-actin interaction. In co-immunoprecipitation studies, M was found to associate with two isoforms of palladin, of 140 and 37 kDa. Interestingly, siRNA downregulation of palladin resulted in reduced titer of released RSV, while cell associated RSV titer increased, suggesting a role for palladin in virus release. Together, our data show that the M-actin interaction mediated by palladin is important for RSV budding and release.IMPORTANCERespiratory syncytial virus is responsible for severe lower respiratory tract infections in young children under 5 years old, the elderly, and the immunosuppressed. The interaction of the respiratory syncytial virus matrix protein with the host actin cytoskeleton is important in infection but has not been investigated in depth. In this study, we show that the respiratory syncytial virus matrix protein associates with actin microfilaments and the actin-binding protein palladin, suggesting a role for palladin in respiratory syncytial virus release. This study provides new insight into the role of the actin cytoskeleton in respiratory syncytial virus infection, a key host-RSV interaction in assembly. Understanding the mechanism by which the RSV M protein and actin interact will ultimately provide a basis for the development of therapeutics targeted at RSV infections.

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters: structures and roles in bacterial pathogenesis.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette (ABC) transporter systems are divided into importers and exporters that facilitate the movement of diverse substrate molecules across the lipid bilayer, against the concentration gradient. These transporters comprise two highly conserved nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs) and two transmembrane domains (TMDs). Unlike ABC exporters, prokaryotic ABC importers require an additional substrate-binding protein (SBP) as a recognition site for specific substrate translocation. The discovery of a large number of ABC systems in bacterial pathogens revealed that these transporters are crucial for the establishment of bacterial infections. The existing literature has highlighted the roles of ABC transporters in bacterial growth, pathogenesis, and virulence. These roles include importing essential nutrients required for a variety of cellular processes and exporting outer membrane-associated virulence factors and antimicrobial substances. This review outlines the general structures and classification of ABC systems to provide a comprehensive view of the activities and roles of ABC transporters associated with bacterial virulence and pathogenesis during infection.

Potent Inhibition and Rapid Photoactivation of Endogenous Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Activity in Native Cells via Opto-Covalent Modulators.

Naturally, kinases exert their activities in a highly regulated fashion. A number of ingenious approaches have been developed to artificially control kinase activity by external stimuli, such as the incorporation of unnatural amino acids or the fusion of additional protein domains; however, methods that directly modulate endogenous kinases in native cells are lacking. Herein, we present a facile and potent method that takes advantage of recent developments in targeted covalent inhibitors and rapid light-mediated uncaging chemistry. Using an important drug target, Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), as an example, these opto-covalent modulators successfully blocked the activity of endogenous BTK in native cells after simple incubation and washout steps. However, upon a few minutes of light irradiation, BTK activity was cleanly restored, and could be blocked again by conventional inhibitors. Promisingly, this photoactivation strategy easily worked in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs).

B-089 Pseudo-clonal Increased IgG4 with Polyclonal Distribution Demonstrated by MALDI-TOF-MS in a Pediatric Patient with Tricho-Hepato-Enteric Syndrome (THES)

Abstract Background THES is a rare autosomal recessive syndromic enteropathy caused by pathogenic variants in two genes, the Tetratricopeptide Repeat Domain 37 (TTC37) and Ski2 Like RNA Helicase (SKIV2L), that encode components of the human SKI complex involved in RNA degradation. This disease is characterized by several clinical features with variable penetrance including intractable congenital diarrhea, wooly hair abnormalities, intrauterine growth restriction, facial dysmorphism, immune dysfunction, liver abnormalities, and skin hyperpigmentation. Hypogammaglobulinemia with low IgG and normal to low IgM levels have been described in these cases which may require intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) replacement therapy. Some cases have a reduced population of switched memory B cells, T cells with reduced IFN-γ secretion, and hyporesponsive NK cells. Our patient is a 4-year-old female reported to have a homozygous TTC37 mutation with clinical manifestations of TPN dependence, liver fibrosis with portal hypertension, splenomegaly, developmental delay, thrombocytopenia and anemia requiring transfusion, and a history of hypogammaglobinemia requiring IVIG replacement. Patient would go on to develop elevated immunoglobin levels leading to additional testing described below. Methods Serum total protein analysis performed using the using Siemens Atellica CH Total Protein II test (Weichselbaum method using biuret reagent). Serum immunoglobin (IgA, IgG and IgG), IgG subclass, and kappa/lambda free light chain level analysis performed by turbidimetric photometry assay using a Binding Site Optilite analyzer. Serum protein electrophoresis and immunotyping performed using CAPILLARYS 2 capillary zone electrophoresis and immunosubtraction with antisera. Serum protein immunofixation performed using Sebia Hydrasys 2 with Hydragel 9 IF Maxi kit. Confirmation and final determination of serum immunoproteins performed at our reference laboratory using MASS-FIX (MALDI-TOF MS) matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry after patient serum applied to 5 separate immunoaffinity resins specific to immunoglobulin G, A, M, K, and L for purification. Results Initial testing showed a broadly migrating beta-gamma region IgG kappa monotypic restriction measuring 1.7 g/dL, with predominantly kappa subtraction and trivial lambda subtraction by immunosubtraction; serum free kappa/lambda light chain ratio was increased at 22.94. Serum immunoglobins and free light chains measured (mg/dL): IgA 738 (15 - 160), IgM 48 (50 - 240), IgG 2,805 (405 - 1,160), free kappa 20.42 (0.33 - 1.94), and free lambda 0.89 (0.57 - 2.63). IgG subclasses measured (mg/dL): IgG1 533 (320 - 950), IgG2 174 (50 - 340), IgG3 16.9 (10.0 - 120.0), IgG4 1,221.1 (2.0 - 110.0). Additional serum protein values included (g/dL): total protein 8.10 (6.00 - 8.30), albumin 2.97 (3.43 - 4.84), alpha-1 0.32 (0.21 - 0.44), alpha-2 0.52 (0.54 - 0.97), beta globulin 3.42 (0.65 - 1.03), and gamma globulin 0.87 (0.70 - 2.30). The polyclonal nature of the IgG4 spike was later demonstrated by the MASS-FIX mass spectrograph. Conclusions MASS-FIX is a useful addition to the toolset used in the diagnosis of possible monoclonal gammopathies and protein disorders, especially where broad monotypic restrictions are observed or in patients with abnormal presentations for monoclonal gammopathies. Using current standard techniques, the above case could have been incorrectly classified as a monoclonal process resulting in unnecessary cost and incorrect treatment.

Vesicle Picker: A tool for efficient identification of membrane protein complexes in vesicles.

Electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM) has recently allowed determination of near-atomic resolution structures of membrane proteins and protein complexes embedded in lipid vesicles. However, particle selection from electron micrographs of these vesicles can be challenging due to the strong signal contributed from the lipid bilayer. This challenge often requires iterative and laborious particle selection workflows to generate a dataset of high-quality particle images for subsequent analysis. Here we present Vesicle Picker, an open-source program built on the Segment Anything model. Vesicle Picker enables automatic identification of vesicles in cryo-EM micrographs with high recall and precision. It then exhaustively selects all potential particle locations, either at the perimeter or uniformly over the surface of the projection of the vesicle. The program is designed to interface with cryoSPARC, which performs both upstream micrograph processing and downstream single particle image analysis. We demonstrate Vesicle Picker's utility by determining a high-resolution map of the vacuolar-type ATPase from micrographs of native synaptic vesicles (SVs) and identifying an additional protein or protein complex in the SV membrane.

Effects of raw and roasted high oleic soybeans on milk production of high-producing dairy cows

Processing method of soybeans has the potential to influence dairy cow production performance, therefore we determined the effect feeding raw or roasted, ground high oleic acid soybeans (HOSB) on production responses of high-producing dairy cows. Thirty-six multiparous Holstein cows (45.6 ± 6.22 kg/d of milk; 110 ± 61 DIM) were randomly assigned to treatment sequences in a 4 × 2 Truncated Latin square design with 35-d periods. Treatments were: 1) control diet containing soybean meal and soybean hulls (CON), 2) 16% roasted and ground HOSB (RST), 3) 16% raw and ground HOSB (RAW-D), and 4) 16% raw and ground HOSB + additional rumen by-pass protein (RAW-U). High oleic acid soybeans replaced conventional soybean meal and hulls in the control diet and rumen by-pass protein replaced soybean meal in RAW-U to maintain diet nutrient composition (%DM) of ∼28.0% NDF, 21.3% forage NDF, 27.3% starch, and 17.8% CP. Fatty acid content of CON, RST, RAW-D, and RAW-U was 1.60, 4.30, 4.36, and 4.34%DM, respectively. Pre-planned contrasts included the overall effect of HOSB inclusion {CON vs. HOSOY [1/3 (RST + RAW-D + RAW-U)]}, the effect of soybean processing {RST vs. RAW [1/2 (RAW-D + RAW-U)]}, and the effect of increasing RUP content within the raw HOSB treatments (RAW-D vs RAW-U). For most variables tested, there were significant interactions between treatment and week, as HOSOY increased production variables compared with CON and RST increased production responses compared with RAW, with only the magnitude of difference varying between weeks. Overall, HOSOY increased DMI and yields of milk, 3.5% FCM, ECM, and milk fat, but did not affect milk protein yield. RST did not impact DMI but increased yields of milk, 3.5% FCM, ECM, milk fat, and milk protein. Compared with RAW-D, RAW-U increased yields of milk and milk protein and tended to increase ECM. Overall, HOSB inclusion of 16% DM increased production responses in high-producing dairy cows, but roasted HOSB had a greater impact than raw HOSB, and the addition of rumen-bypass protein positively affected milk protein response.

Biallelic variants in DAP3 result in reduced assembly of the mitoribosomal small subunit with altered intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis and a Perrault syndrome-spectrum phenotype.

The mitoribosome synthesizes 13 protein subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation system encoded by the mitochondrial genome. The mitoribosome is composed of 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA and 82 mitoribosomal proteins encoded by nuclear genes. To date, variants in 12 genes encoding mitoribosomal proteins are associated with rare monogenic disorders, and frequently show combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency. Here, we describe five unrelated individuals with biallelic variants in the DAP3 nuclear gene encoding mitoribosomal small subunit 29 (MRPS29), with variable clinical presentations ranging from Perrault syndrome (sensorineural hearing loss and ovarian insufficiency) to an early childhood neurometabolic phenotype. Assessment of respiratory chain function and proteomic profiling of fibroblasts from affected individuals demonstrated reduced MRPS29 protein levels, and consequently decreased levels of additional protein components of the mitoribosomal small subunit, associated with a combined complex I and IV deficiency. Lentiviral transduction of fibroblasts from affected individuals with wild-type DAP3 cDNA increased DAP3 mRNA expression, and partially rescued protein levels of MRPS7, MRPS9 and complex I and IV subunits, demonstrating the pathogenicity of the DAP3 variants. Protein modelling suggested that DAP3 disease-associated missense variants can impact ADP binding, and in vitro assays demonstrated DAP3 variants can consequently reduce both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic sensitivity, DAP3 thermal stability and DAP3 GTPase activity. Our study presents genetic and functional evidence that biallelic variants in DAP3 result in a multisystem disorder of combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency with pleiotropic presentations, consistent with mitochondrial dysfunction.

A novel stoploss mutation CYB5R3 c.906A>G(p.*302Trpext*42) involved in the pathogenesis of hereditary methemoglobinemia

Recessive congenital methemoglobinemia (RCM) is a hereditary autosomal disorder with an extremely low incidence rate. Here, we report a case of methemoglobinemia type I in a patient with congenital persistent cyanosis. The condition was attributed to a novel compound heterozygous mutation in CYB5R3, characterized by elevated methemoglobin levels (13.4 % of total hemoglobin) and undetectable NADH cytochrome b5 reductase (CYB5R3) activity. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) revealed two heterozygous mutations in CYB5R3: a previously reported pathogenic missense mutation c.611G>A(p.Cys204Tyr) inherited from the father, and a novel stop codon mutation c.906A>G(p.*302Trpext*42) from the mother, the latter mutation assessed as likely pathogenic according to ACMG guidelines. In cells overexpressing the CYB5R3 c.906A>G mutant construct, the CYB5R3 mRNA level was significantly lower than in cells overexpressing the wild-type (WT) CYB5R3 construct. However, there was no significant difference in protein expression levels between the mutant and WT constructs. Notably, an additional protein band of approximately 55 kDa was detected in the mutant cells. Immunofluorescence localization showed that, compared to wild-type CYB5R3, the subcellular localization of the CYB5R3 p.*302Trpext*42 mutant protein did not show significant changes and remained distributed in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. However, the c.906A>G(p.*302Trpext*42) mutation resulted in increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and decreased NAD+/NADH ratio, suggesting impaired CYB5R3 function and implicating this novel mutation as likely pathogenic.

High Protein Milk Effective to Increase the Hb Levels of Third Trimester of Pregnancy with Anemia

The high maternal mortality rate in Indonesia is still plagued by three main causes, one of which is anemia caused by iron deficiency. This weakness is related to protein deficiency, so the way to overcome it is by giving blood supplement tablets with additional protein intake to pregnant women. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of giving high protein milk intake on increasing hemaglobin levels in third trimester pregnant women with iron deficiency. This test plan was a pre-try one collection pretest-posttest. The population in this study was all third trimester pregnant women with pale faces in the work room of the Gondanglegi Welfare Center Malang Regime, with a sample of 33 people using total sampling. The measured test used was Wilcoxon Marked Rank Test. The examination results showed that the average hemaglobin level before treatment was 10.1 gr/dl, and after treatment was 11.1 gr/dl. The results showed that there was an effect of giving high protein milk on increasing hemaglobin levels in third period pregnant women with pale skin in the Gondanglegi Health Center Working Area (p-value = 0.000). The conclusion of this study is that milk protein consumption basically affects the increase in hemaglobin levels in pregnant women. It is recommended for pregnant women who get anemia to focus on their food intake, especially protein consumption.

Understanding the protein extraction potential of tomato leaves (Solanum lycopersicum) through mass balance modelling

Tomato leaves, the main by-product from tomato production, are a potential protein source. In this study, proteins were extracted from tomato leaves collected from different positions of the plant (top, middle and bottom) using three different purification methods: acid precipitation, ethanol precipitation and dialysis. The protein extraction process was evaluated in terms of protein yield and purity. In addition, mass balances were established to estimate the potential additional protein recovery as well as to identify the limiting factors of the extraction. Significant protein loss (0.62 g/g total proteins) occurred during the initial processing steps, which was mainly attributed to the water absorbed by the fibrous pulp and the presence of large quantities of insoluble proteins. Part of the loss may be recovered from the pulp and thus considered attainable. However, most of these proteins were inevitably lost, due to their insolubility. In general, low protein yields were found for all leaves when aiming for a protein extract with high purity, with some variations in different leaves. Top (young) leaves resulted in the highest protein yield, suggesting the presence of more intact proteins. Acid precipitation resulted in the highest protein purity, suggesting a high selectivity for proteins.

Comparison of the chemical composition of major feed resources between the midland and lowland agro-ecological zones in the Majang zone of southwest Ethiopia

Evaluation of feed chemical composition is essential for predicting nutrient deficiencies and improving feed for optimal livestock productivity. However, variation in agro-ecological zones (AEZs) might affect the chemical composition of feeds. The main objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the chemical composition of major feed resources in the midland and lowland AEZs of the Majang zone in southwest Ethiopia. A total of eight representative samples of feed resources were collected from lowland (Godere district) AEZ (500–1500 m above sea level) and midland (Mangashi district) AEZ (1501–2300 m above sea level). The samples were analysed for dry matter (DM), ash, crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL). The result revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the chemical composition traits between the two AEZs in the study area. For example, the DM, ash and NDF contents of C. dactylon were higher (P < 0.05) in the lowland AEZ, while the ADF and ADL contents were higher in the midland; D. abyssinica had higher (P < 0.05) ADF content in the lowland, while Z. mays stover had higher (P < 0.05) DM, ash and ADF contents in the lowland. S. bicolor stover showed higher (P < 0.05) DM, ash, ADF and ADL contents in the lowland, while C. gayana had higher (P < 0.05) ash and CP contents in the lowland and higher (P < 0.05) ADF and ADL contents in the midland AEZ; Atella (a traditional alcohol byproduct) had greater (P < 0.05) ash and ADF contents in the lowland. Regardless of the AEZs, the DM, ash, NDF, ADF, EE, CP and ADL contents of the feed samples varied from 89.97 ± 0.33 % in P. purpureum to 92.50 ± 0.01 in Sorghum bicolor stover, 4.27 ± 0.19 in Atella to 12.37 ± 0.42 in elephant grass, 51.66 ± 0.38 in Atella to 66.10 ± 0.25 in D. abyssinica, 32.21 ± 0.29 in D. abyssinica to 42.58 ± 0.44 in D. abyssinica, 0.63 ± 0.15 in Atella to 2.55 ± 0.03 in C. dactylon, 4.77 ± 0.01 in Zea mays stover to 11.83 ± 0.02 in V. unguiculata and 10.31 ± 0.07 in Z. mays stover to 19.41 ± 0.07 % DM in C. dactylon, respectively. From this study it was concluded that variation in AEZ has a significant effect on chemical composition traits of the feeds in the study area. The results of the study revealed that V. unguiculata stands out as a valuable protein source, while crop residues may require additional protein supplementation to meet livestock requirements in the study area.

The genetic duet of concurrent RASAL1 and PTEN alterations promotes cancer aggressiveness by cooperatively activating the PI3K-AKT pathway.

The significance of the prominent tumor suppressor gene for RAS protein activator-like 1 (RASAL1) could be better understood by combined genetic, clinical, and functional studies. Here, we investigated the oncogenic and clinical impacts of genetic alterations of RASAL1, particularly when coexisting with genetic alterations of the gene for phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), in 9924 cancers of 33 types in the TCGA database. We found common concurrent genetic alterations of the two genes, which were cooperatively associated with activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT pathway, with cancer progression and mortality rates being 46.36% and 31.72% with concurrent gene alterations, versus 29.80% and 16.93% with neither gene alteration (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.46-1.84 and 1.77, 95% CI 1.53-2.05), respectively. This was enhanced by additional tumor protein p53 (TP53) gene alterations, with cancer progression and mortality rates being 47.65% and 34.46% with coexisting RASAL1, PTEN, and TP53 alterations versus 25.30% and 13.11% with no alteration (HR 2.21, 95% CI 1.92-2.56 and 2.76, 95% CI 2.31-3.30), respectively. In the case of breast cancer, this genetic trio was associated with a triple-negative risk of 68.75% versus 3.83% with no genetic alteration (RR 17.94, 95% CI 9.60-33.51), consistent with the aggressive nature of triple-negative breast cancer. Mice with double knockouts of Rasal1 and Pten displayed robust Pi3k pathway activation, with the development of metastasizing malignancies, while single gene knockout resulted in only benign neoplasma. These results suggest that RASAL1, like PTEN, is a critical player in negatively regulating the PI3K-AKT pathway; defect in RASAL1 causes RAS activation, thus initiating the PI3K-AKT pathway signaling, which cannot terminate with concurrent PTEN defects. Thus, the unique concurrent RASAL1 and PTEN defects drive oncogenesis and cancer aggressiveness by cooperatively activating the PI3K-AKT pathway. This represents a robust genetic mechanism to promote human cancer.

Enhanced protein intake on maintaining muscle mass, strength, and physical function in adults with overweight/obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background & AimsWeight loss in individuals with obesity and overweight leads to metabolic and health benefits but also poses the risk of muscle mass reduction. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials aims to determine the initial protein amount necessary for achieving weight loss while maintaining muscle mass, strength, and physical function in adults with overweight and obesity. MethodsRelevant literature databases, including Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Excerpta Medica (Embase), the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINHAL), and Web of Science, were electronically searched up to 15 March 2023. We examined the effect of additional protein intake on muscle mass, strength, and physical function in adults with overweight or obesity targeting weight loss. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool. Results were synthesized using standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) via a random-effects model. ResultsForty-seven studies (n = 3,218) were included. In the muscle mass analysis, twenty-eight trials with 1,989 participants were encompassed. Results indicated that increased protein intake significantly prevents muscle mass decline in adults with overweight or obesity aiming for weight loss (SMD 0.75; 95% CI 0.41 to 1.10; p < 0.001). Enhanced protein intake did not significantly prevent decreases in muscle strength and physical function. An intake exceeding 1.3 g/kg/day is anticipated to increase muscle mass, while an intake below 1.0 g/kg/day is associated with a higher risk of muscle mass decline. The risk of bias in studies regarding muscle mass ranged from low to high. ConclusionsAdults with overweight or obesity and aim for weight loss can more effectively retain muscle mass through higher protein intake, as opposed to no protein intake enhancement.

Protein Intake and Bone Health in the Elderly

AbstractProtein plays an important role in muscle and bone metabolism. This is of great importance for optimal bone health, especially in the elderly, in sarcopenia and osteoporosis. Adequate protein intake is a prerequisite for optimal musculoskeletal health and efficient strength training. Protein is one of the macronutrients and besides calcium the most abundant structural component of our musculoskeletal system. However, elderly subjects often consume too little protein. In 2017, the revised reference values in the D-A-CH region were increased for adults&gt;65 years to 1.0 g protein/kg (ideal) body weight [BW]/ day and ESPEN even advocates for an intake of 1.0–1.5 g protein/kg BW/ day. Many elderly people, especially women do not meet these targets. In our experience, there is a fundamental misconception that protein needs can only be met consuming animal products. Many studies have investigated whether sufficient protein intake has a positive effect on bone. In this short review, the importance of protein for bone and the problem of inadequate protein intake in sarcopenia will be discussed and the most relevant clinical guidelines and studies will be presented. For practical use, we give examples of omnivore and vegetarian meal plans and important protein sources (plant and animal origin) are given. Usually, the minimal demands can easily be met with simple nutritional advice. Sometimes however, additional protein supplements (often liquids, puddings, powders) are needed, especially in nursing home residents, and when poor appetite or dysphagia impair appropriate caloric and protein intake.

Malnutrition, protein energy wasting and sarcopenia in patients attending a haemodialysis centre in sub-Saharan Africa

BackgroundHaemodialysis (HD) patients are reported to be at greater risk of malnourishment, and at risk of increased morbidity and mortality. However, most studies report from economically advanced countries. We therefore assessed the nutritional status and diet among HD patients attending a public university hospital in a sub-Saharan African country.SubjectsWe performed nutritional assessments in HD patients attending the largest dialysis centre, in the country, collecting demographic and clinical data, dietary intake, along with anthropometric and bioimpedance body composition measurements in May 2022. Malnutrition was classified according to subjective global assessment score (SGA). Additional assessments of protein energy wasting (PEW), clinical frailty, and sarcopenia were made.ResultsAll 97 HD patients were recruited, mean age 44.7 ± 12.2 years, with 55 (56.7%) males. Malnutrition was present in 43.8%, PEW 20.6%, frailty 17.6% and sarcopenia 4.1%. On multivariable logistic regression higher serum albumin (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.89, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.85-0.95, p < 0.001), creatinine (AOR 0.99, 95%CI 0.98–0.99, p < 0.001), greater mid upper arm circumference (AOR 0.89, 95%CI 0.83–0.95, p = 0.001), body cell mass (BCM) (AOR 0.79, 95%CI 0.67–0.95, p = 0.013) and employment (AOR 0.45, 95%CI 0.23–0.87, p = 0.017), were are all protective against malnourishment. Almost 75% had reduced dietary protein intake.ConclusionsDespite a younger, less co-morbid patient population, malnutrition is common in this resource poor setting. The staple diet is based on maize, a low protein foodstuff. Employment improved finances and potentially allows better nutrition. Further studies are required to determine whether additional dietary protein can reduce the prevalence of malnutrition in this population.

Long‐term preservation of lean mass and sustained loss of fat mass after completion of an intensive lifestyle intervention in older adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes

AbstractIntroductionLifestyle interventions combining caloric restriction with resistance exercise have the potential to preserve lean mass during weight loss. Additional protein intake can further improve lean mass. However, it is unclear whether these effects are sustained after completion of the intervention. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term effect of a 3‐month lifestyle intervention, with or without supplementation of a protein drink, to preserve lean mass in older adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes at 6 months post‐intervention.MethodsAdults (n = 123) aged ≥55 years with obesity and type 2 diabetes were enrolled in a 3‐month intensive lifestyle intervention including a hypocaloric diet, resistance exercise and high‐intensity interval training. Participants were randomized to either receive a leucine and vitamin D‐enriched protein drink or an isocaloric control drink. The 3‐month intervention was followed by a 6‐month phase without intervention. At baseline, 3 and 9 months (follow‐up) body composition, physical functioning, physical activity and quality of life were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using linear mixed models.ResultsBody weight loss was largely sustained at follow‐up (−2.1 kg compared to baseline, 95% CI [−2.8, −1.5]) and comprised a sustained loss of fat mass (−2.6 kg, 95% CI [−3.2, −2.0]) with a simultaneous gain of lean mass (+0.7 kg, 95% CI [+0.2, +1.2]). Improvements in 400 m walk speed (+0.05 m/s, 95% CI [+0.03, +0.08]) and chair stand test time (−1.5 s, 95% CI [−1.9, −1.1]) were sustained at follow‐up. There were no differences in these changes between the protein supplementation group and the control group at follow‐up.ConclusionsOlder adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes preserved their lean mass, their loss of fat mass and their improvements in physical functioning at 6 months post‐intervention. Protein supplementation during intervention did not affect outcomes at follow‐up.

Elucidating the spatio-temporal dynamics of the Plasmodium falciparum basal complex.

Asexual replication of Plasmodium falciparum occurs via schizogony, wherein 16-36 daughter cells are produced within the parasite during one semi-synchronized cytokinetic event. Schizogony requires a divergent contractile ring structure known as the basal complex. Our lab has previously identified PfMyoJ (PF3D7_1229800) and PfSLACR (PF3D7_0214700) as basal complex proteins recruited midway through segmentation. Using ultrastructure expansion microscopy, we localized both proteins to a novel basal complex subcompartment. While both colocalize with the basal complex protein PfCINCH upon recruitment, they form a separate, more basal subcompartment termed the posterior cup during contraction. We also show that PfSLACR is recruited to the basal complex prior to PfMyoJ, and that both proteins are removed unevenly as segmentation concludes. Using live-cell microscopy, we show that actin dynamics are dispensable for basal complex formation, expansion, and contraction. We then show that EF-hand containing P. falciparum Centrin 2 partially localizes to this posterior cup of the basal complex and that it is essential for growth and replication, with variable defects in basal complex contraction and synchrony. Finally, we demonstrate that free intracellular calcium is necessary but not sufficient for basal complex contraction in P. falciparum. Thus, we demonstrate dynamic spatial compartmentalization of the Plasmodium falciparum basal complex, identify an additional basal complex protein, and begin to elucidate the unique mechanism of contraction utilized by P. falciparum, opening the door for further exploration of Apicomplexan cellular division.

A nutrition intervention study’s effect to hematology profiles on elderly group in social retirement home

The increase in the elderly brings consequences, including a higher risk of disease. Inappropriate nutritional intake is also known as one of the risk factors related to the elderly's non-communicable diseases, and nutritional intervention is essential to improve the elderly nutritional status and quality of life. It was an interventional study with a before-after one-group approach. The study was conducted for three months (October-December 2021) in three social retirement homes. The intervention given was supplementation with additional protein sources and snacks each day. The biochemistry profiles were taken 2 times: before and after three months of intervention, comprised of HbA1c, lipid, transferrin, creatinine, and blood pressure level. The data will be analyzed for its normality before being processed with paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed rank based on the normality results. The analysis results show that there are significantly lower transferrin levels (p=0.040), an increase in cholesterol level (p=0.000), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level increased from 114.05±32.03 to 125.94±31.41 (p=0.000). There is also a remarkable decrease in hemoglobin (p=0.005) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Conversely, there are an increase in HbA1C (p=0.007) and triglyceride level (p=0.005). There is no significant difference in creatinine level. We conclude that nutrition interventions have a significant effect on elderly blood profiles. However, to achieve an improvement, the study should consider physical activity and other variables that might be altering the results.