Carbohydrate Metabolism Research Articles

The DEP1 Mutation Improves Stem Lodging Resistance and Biomass Saccharification by Affecting Cell Wall Biosynthesis in Rice.

Plant cell walls have evolved precise plasticity in response to environmental stimuli. The plant heterotrimeric G protein complexes could sense and transmit extracellular signals to intracellular signaling systems, and activate a series of downstream responses. dep1 (Dense and Erect Panicles 1), the gain-of-function mutation of DEP1 encoding a G protein γ subunit, confers rice multiple improved agronomic traits. However, the effects of DEP1 on cell wall biosynthesis and wall-related agronomic traits remain largely unknown. In this study, we showed that the DEP1 mutation affects cell wall biosynthesis, leading to improved lodging resistance and biomass saccharification. The DEP1 is ubiquitously expressed with a relatively higher expression level in tissues rich in cell walls. The CRISPR/Cas9 editing mutants of DEP1 (dep1-cs) displayed a significant enhancement in stem mechanical properties relative to the wild-type, leading to a substantial improvement in lodging resistance. Cell wall analyses showed that the DEP1 mutation increased the contents of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and pectin, and reduced lignin content and cellulose crystallinity (CrI). Additionally, the dep1-cs seedlings exhibited higher sensitivity to cellulose biosynthesis inhibitors, 2,6-Dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB) and isoxaben, compared with the wild-type, confirming the role of DEP1 in cellulose deposition. Moreover, the DEP1 mutation-mediated alterations of cell walls lead to increased enzymatic saccharification of biomass after the alkali pretreatment. Furthermore, the comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that the DEP1 mutation substantially altered expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, and cell wall biosynthesis. Our findings revealed the roles of DEP1 in cell wall biosynthesis, lodging resistance, and biomass saccharification in rice and suggested genetic modification of DEP1 as a potential strategy to develop energy rice varieties with high lodging resistance.

Marine Pediococcus pentosaceus E3 Probiotic Properties, Whole-Genome Sequence Analysis, and Safety Assessment.

Probiotics play a significant role in enhancing health, and they are well known for bacteriocins production. Evaluating probiotics' whole-genome sequence provides insights into their consumption outcomes. Thus, genomic studies have a significant role in assessing the safety of probiotics more in-depth and offer valuable information regarding probiotics' functional diversity, metabolic pathways, and health-promoting mechanisms. Marine Pediococcus pentosaceus E3, isolated from shrimp gut, exhibited beneficial properties, indicating its potential as a probiotic candidate. Phenotypically, E3 strain was susceptible to most antibiotics assessed, tolerant to low pH and high bile salt conditions, and revealed no hemolysin activity. Interestingly, E3-neutralized CFS revealed significant antibacterial activity against pathogens under investigation. Therefore, the concentrated CFS was prepared and evaluated as a natural biopreservative and showed outstanding antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, integrated-based genome assessment has provided insight into probiotic characteristics at the genomic level. Whole-genome sequencing analysis revealed that the E3 genome possesses 1805 protein-coding genes, and the genome size was about 1.8Mb with a G + C content of 37.28%. Moreover, the genome revealed the absence of virulence factors and clinically related antibiotic genes. Moreover, several genes consistent with probiotic microorganisms' features were estimated in the genome, including stress response, carbohydrate metabolism, and vitamin biosynthesis. In addition, several genes associated with survival and colonization within the gastrointestinal tract were also detected across the E3 genome. Therefore, the findings suggest that insights into the genetic characteristics of E3 guarantee the safety of the strain and facilitate future development of E3 isolate as a health-promoting probiotic and source of biopreservative.

Diagnosis and treatment of oral mucus lesions: case series of four patients

One of the pressing issues in dermatovenerological and stomatological practices pertains to diseases of the oral mucosa. This challenge is primarily attributed to the intricacies associated with diagnosing these conditions in their early stages, the resemblance of clinical presentations to various oral mucosal lesions, and the potential lack of awareness among healthcare practitioners. Diseases such as lichen planus, herpes simplex, erythema multiforme exudative with skin lesions and vulgar pemphigus are characterized by a particularly persistent long-term course, thereby reducing the patient's ability to work and the overall quality of life. A multitude of endogenous and exogenous factors can influence the state of the oral mucosa. Endogenous factors encompass genetic predisposition, endocrine disturbances, carbohydrate metabolism disorders, neurogenic disorders, autoimmune conditions and infectious diseases. Exogenous factors, as a rule, include taking medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics), galvanism, excessive use of alcohol and narcotic substances, and others. It should be noted that the condition of the oral mucosa is also influenced by a wide range of different trigger factors. The narrative delves into the complexities of diagnosing these conditions early on and explores the challenges inherent in devising effective treatment strategies.

RNA-Seq transcriptome profiling of immature grain wheat is a technique for understanding comparative modeling of baking quality

Improving the baking quality is a primary challenge in the wheat flour production value chain, as baking quality represents a crucial factor in determining its overall value. In the present study, we conducted a comparative RNA-Seq analysis on the high baking quality mutant “O-64.1.10” genotype and its low baking quality wild type "Omid" cultivar to recognize potential genes associated with bread quality. The cDNA libraries were constructed from immature grains that were 15 days post-anthesis, with an average of 16.24 and 18.97 million paired-end short-read sequences in the mutant and wild-type, respectively. A total number of 733 transcripts with differential expression were identified, 585 genes up-regulated and 188 genes down-regulated in the “O-64.1.10” genotype compared to the “Omid”. In addition, the families of HSF, bZIP, C2C2-Dof, B3-ARF, BES1, C3H, GRF, HB-HD-ZIP, PLATZ, MADS-MIKC, GARP-G2-like, NAC, OFP and TUB were appeared as the key transcription factors with specific expression in the “O-64.1.10” genotype. At the same time, pathways related to baking quality were identified through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Collectively, we found that the endoplasmic network, metabolic pathways, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, hormone signaling pathway, B group vitamins, protein pathways, pathways associated with carbohydrate and fat metabolism, as well as the biosynthesis and metabolism of various amino acids, have a great deal of potential to play a significant role in the baking quality. Ultimately, the RNA-seq results were confirmed using quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR for some hub genes such as alpha-gliadin, low molecular weight glutenin subunit and terpene synthase (gibberellin) and as a resource for future study, 127 EST-SSR primers were generated using RNA-seq data.

Widespread horizontal gene transfer between plants and bacteria

Abstract Plants host a large array of commensal bacteria that interact with the host. The growth of both bacteria and plants is often dependent on nutrients derived from the cognate partners, and the bacteria fine-tune host immunity against pathogens. This ancient interaction is common in all studied land plants and is critical for proper plant health and development. We hypothesized that the spatial vicinity and the long-term relationships between plants and their microbiota may promote cross-kingdom horizontal gene transfer (HGT), a phenomenon that is relatively rare in nature. To test this hypothesis we analyzed the Arabidopsis thaliana genome and its extensively sequenced microbiome to detect events of horizontal transfer of full length genes that transferred between plants and bacteria. Interestingly, we detected 75 unique genes that were horizontally transferred between plants and bacteria. Plants and bacteria exchange in both directions genes that are enriched in carbohydrate metabolism functions, and bacteria transferred to plants genes that are enriched in auxin biosynthesis genes. Next we provided a proof of concept for the functional similarity between a horizontally transferred bacterial gene and its Arabidopsis homologue in planta. The Arabidopsis DET2 gene is essential for biosynthesis of the brassinosteroid phytohormones and loss-of-function of the gene leads to dwarfism. We found that expression of the DET2 homologue from Leifsonia bacteria of the Actinobacteria phylum in the Arabidopsis det2 background complements the mutant, and leads to normal plant growth. Together, these data suggest that cross-kingdom horizontal gene transfer events shape the metabolic capabilities and interactions between plants and bacteria.

Metagenomic and metabolomic analyses reveal differences in rumen microbiota between grass- and grain-fed Sanhe heifers

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of diets on the composition and function of rumen microbiome and metabolites in Sanhe heifers.MethodsMetagenomic and metabolomic analyses were performed using rumen fluid samples collected from Sanhe heifers (n = 20) with similar body weights and ages from grass-fed and grain-fed systems.ResultsThe grain-fed group exhibited more intensive rumen fermentation than the grass-fed group. However, the grass-fed group exhibited carbohydrate metabolism and methane production higher than that of the grain-fed group; these increases were observed as a higher abundance of various bacterial phyla (Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Lentisphaerae, and Verrucomicrobia), families (Lachnospiraceae, Eubacteriaceae, and Eggerthellaceae), and the archaeal family Methanobacteriaceae. A comparison of genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes, using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome profiles, revealed noteworthy differences in the functions of rumen microbiota; these differences were largely dependent on the feeding system.ConclusionThese results could help manipulate and regulate feed efficiency in Sanhe cattle.

Berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes - literature review

Introduction and purpose : Type 2 diabetes is currently a serious problem worldwide. Each year, the number of individuals with carbohydrate metabolism disorders is increasing. This is due to an unhealthy lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and a diet rich in highly processed foods. Currently, the treatment of type 2 diabetes is based on the use of oral antidiabetic medications, with the first choice often being a derivative of biguanides, such as metformin. Berberine has been used in China for many years as a hypoglycemic agent, and its efficacy is compared to metformin preparations. This paper focuses on the benefits of using berberine in patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes and compares the effects of berberine preparations to classical medications used in diabetes treatment. Material and methods : The literaue was reviewed in PubMed and Google Scholar scientific database in 2013-2023 using the following keywords : berberine, diabetes mellitus type 2, hyperlipidemia, hyperglicemia Conclusions : The studies included in this manuscript have shown that berberine is a promising agent for adjunctive treatment in type 2 diabetes. It exhibits a range of positive effects such as lowering blood glucose levels, improving lipid profile, with no serious adverse effects reported. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop an effective treatment plan.

Prebiotics and Probiotics their Sources and Actions Combined Effects of Pro and Pre Biotics and their Challenges and Regulation

The gut microbiota, comprising a diverse array of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea, inhabits the gastrointestinal tract of humans and other animals, exerting a profound influence on various physiological functions. This intricate ecosystem, characterized by its heterogeneity and resilience, plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health. Through a mutualistic relationship with the host, the gut microbiota contributes to the production of short-chain fatty acids and participates in carbohydrate metabolism, thus influencing energy metabolism and inflammatory processes. Moreover, it actively modulates the immune system, promoting a balanced and well-functioning immune response while providing defense against invading pathogens. Importantly, disruptions in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota have been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, and neurological disorders. Understanding and harnessing the potential of the gut flora hold promise for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies for these conditions. This abstract highlights the multifaceted roles of gut microbiota in human health and underscores the importance of further research in this field for advancing public health initiatives.

Modeling and optimization of triclosan biodegradation by the newly isolated Bacillus sp. DL4: kinetics and pathway speculation.

Triclosan is a widely used antibacterial agent and disinfectant, and its overuse endangered ecological safety and human health. Therefore, reducing residual TCS concentrations in the environment is an urgent issue. Bacillus sp. DL4, an aerobic bacterium with TCS biodegradability, was isolated from pharmaceutical wastewater samples. Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) were carried out to optimize and verify the different condition variables, and the optimal growth conditions of strain DL4 were obtained (35°C, initial pH 7.31, and 5% v/v). After 48h of cultivation under the optimal conditions, the removal efficiency of strain DL4 on TCS was 95.89 ± 0.68%, which was consistent with the predicted values from RSM and ANN models. In addition, higher R2 value and lower MSE and ADD values indicated that the ANN model had a stronger predictive capability than the RSM model. Whole genome sequencing results showed that many functional genes were annotated in metabolic pathways related to TCS degradation (e.g., amino acid metabolism, xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism). Main intermediate metabolites were identified during the biodegradation process by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and a possible pathway was hypothesized based on the metabolites. Overall, this study provides a theoretical foundation for the characterization and mechanism of TCS biodegradation in the environment by Bacillus sp. DL4.

Premature ovarian insufficiency in patients with galactosemia

Background. Galactosemia is a congenital disorder of carbohydrate metabolism caused by a defect in any of the enzymes of galactose metabolism. One of the long-term complications is premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), which is more common in patients with the c.563A>G (Q188R) mutation in the homozygous state in the galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT) gene. At the same time, fertility factors may be higher in patients with POI caused by classical galactosemia (CG) compared with other causes of POI, which makes it difficult to resolve the issue of the need to use fertility preservation methods for this group of patients in the prepubescent period. Case report. This article describes two clinical observations of patients with CG who were diagnosed with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Patient A. was initiated hormone replacement therapy (HRT) at the age of 11, and according to the results of osteodensitometry, there is currently no decrease in bone mineral density. In patient C. at the age of 14, before the start of HRT, ovaries without pronounced follicular apparatus, osteopenia and osteoporosis were detected. The issue of the necessity and timing of the use of fertility preservation methods is being considered. Conclusion. Patients with CG are recommended to monitor hormonal profile indicators for timely administration of HRT. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue should be considered as one of the options for maintaining fertility in patients with CG, taking into account that some of them still have the possibility of spontaneous pregnancy, despite the POI.

СВЯЗЬ ЦИРКУЛИРУЮЩИХ УРОВНЕЙ АМИНОКИСЛОТ С РАЗВЕТВЛЕННОЙ ЦЕПЬЮ У ПАЦИЕНТОВ С ХРОНИЧЕСКОЙ СЕРДЕЧНОЙ НЕДОСТАТОЧНОСТЬЮ С НАЛИЧИЕМ НАРУШЕНИЙ УГЛЕВОДНОГО ОБМЕНА

The importance of the problem of chronic heart failure (CHF) is hard to overestimate: this syndrome is diagnosed in millions of patients around the world and its prevalence continues to grow. The proportion of patients suffering from carbohydrate metabolism disorders (CMD) is also steadily increasing. The close connection between carbohydrate metabolism disorders and the progression of CHF allowed such patients to be classified into a separate phenotype cluster - the “metabolic phenotype of CHF”. The pathophysiology of the “metabolic phenotype of CHF” is based on significant metabolic disorders, which determines the characteristic features of the metabolome of this cohort of patients. Therefore, the purpose of this work is to compare and evaluate the relationship between metabolites that occupy one of the most important places in the metabolic processes of the body - the levels of branched chain amino acids (BCAA) and the phenotypic characteristics of patients with CHF. The study included 218 patients: 133 patients of the main group suffering from CHF and having CMD; comparison group - 85 patients with CHF without CMD. The groups were comparable by gender (p=0,324) and age (p=0,936). The levels of BCAAs - leucine, isoleucine, valine - in the blood plasma of patients were assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Based on the results of the analysis, the following data were obtained: plasma levels of valine and leucine in patients with CHF and CMD were higher (p=0,022 and p<0,001, respectively) than in patients with CHF and normal carbohydrate metabolism. A direct relationship between the level of leucine + isoleucine and the concentration of glucose (r=0,3, p<0,001) and an inverse relationship between the plasma concentration of valine and the level of N-terminal propeptide of natriuretic hormone (NTproBNP) (r=-0,388, p<0,001) were found. It has been established that a high level of tissue insulin resistance in patients is associated with increased concentrations of BCAA. The results indicate the important role of BCAA in the pathogenesis of the “metabolic phenotype of CHF,” which requires further research in this direction.

Microbial Diversity and Community Structure of Chinese Fresh Beef during Cold Storage and Their Correlations with Off-Flavors

To investigate the diversity and dynamics of microorganisms in Chinese fresh beef (CFB) without acid discharge treatment during cold storage, high-throughput sequencing was employed to analyze the CFB refrigerated for 0, 3, 7, and 10 days. The results showed that the community richness of the fungi and bacteria decreased significantly. However, the diversity decreased in the early stage and increased in the later stage. At the phylum level, Ascomycota (74.1–94.1%) and Firmicutes (77.3–96.8%) were the absolutely dominant fungal and bacterial phyla. The relative abundance of both fungal and bacterial phyla displayed a trend of increasing and then decreasing. At the genus level, Candida (29.3–52.5%) and Lactococcus (19.8–59.3%) were, respectively, the dominant fungal and bacterial genera. The relative abundance of Candida showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing, while Lactococcus possessed the opposite trend. KEGG metabolic pathways analysis suggested that carbohydrate metabolism, membrane transport, and amino acid metabolism were the major metabolic pathways of bacteria. Bugbase prediction indicated the major microbial phenotype of bacteria in CFB during cold storage was Gram-positive (17.2–31.6%). Correlation analysis suggested that Lactococcus, Citrobacter, Proteus, and Rhodotorula might be the main microorganisms promoting the production of off-flavor substances in CFB. This study provides a theoretical basis for the preservation of Chinese fresh beef.

The Potential Role of the Ketogenic Diet in Serious Mental Illness: Current Evidence, Safety, and Practical Advice

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that mimics the physiological state of fasting. The potential therapeutic effects in many chronic conditions have led to the gaining popularity of the KD. The KD has been demonstrated to alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress, modulate the gut microbiota community, and improve metabolic health markers. The modification of these factors has been a potential therapeutic target in serious mental illness (SMI): bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. The number of clinical trials assessing the effect of the KD on SMI is still limited. Preliminary research, predominantly case studies, suggests potential therapeutic effects, including weight gain reduction, improved carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, decrease in disease-related symptoms, increased energy and quality of life, and, in some cases, changes in pharmacotherapy (reduction in number or dosage of medication). However, these findings necessitate further investigation through larger-scale clinical trials. Initiation of the KD should occur in a hospital setting and with strict care of a physician and dietitian due to potential side effects of the diet and the possibility of exacerbating adverse effects of pharmacotherapy. An increasing number of ongoing studies examining the KD’s effect on mental disorders highlights its potential role in the adjunctive treatment of SMI.

[Effect of Polyethylene Microplastics on the Microbial Community of Saline Soils].

Mulching to conserve moisture has become an important agronomic practice in saline soil cultivation, and the effects of the dual stress of salinity and microplastics on soil microbes are receiving increasing attention. In order to investigate the effect of polyethylene microplastics on the microbial community of salinized soils, this study investigated the effects of different types (chloride and sulphate) and concentrations (weak, medium, and strong) of polyethylene (PE) microplastics (1% and 4% of the dry weight mass of the soil sample) on the soil microbial community by simulating microplastic contamination in salinized soil environments indoors. The results showed that:PE microplastics reduced the diversity and abundance of microbial communities in salinized soils and were more strongly affected by sulphate saline soil treatments. The relative abundance of each group of bacteria was more strongly changed in the sulphate saline soil treatment than in the chloride saline soil treatment. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria was positively correlated with the abundance of fugitive PE microplastics, whereas the relative abundances of Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, and Acidobacteria were negatively correlated with the abundance of fugitive PE microplastics. At the family level, the relative abundances of Flavobacteriaceae, Alcanivoracaceae, Halomonadaceae, and Sphingomonasceae increased with increasing abundance of PE microplastics. The KEGG metabolic pathway prediction showed that the relative abundance of microbial metabolism and genetic information functions were reduced by the presence of PE microplastics, and the inhibition of metabolic functions was stronger in sulphate saline soils than in chloride saline soils, whereas the inhibition of genetic information functions was weaker than that in chloride saline soils. The secondary metabolic pathways of amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy metabolism were inhibited. It was hypothesized that the reduction in metabolic functions may have been caused by the reduced relative abundance of the above-mentioned secondary metabolic pathways. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the study of the effects of microplastics and salinization on the soil environment under the dual pollution conditions.

An Epidemiological Study to Assess the Risk Factors and Symptoms of PCOS

The aim to present this study was to assess the most affected age group of girls from PCOD and to make them aware by our questionnaire in this descriptive study, 200 girls were selected randomly from hostels of MMDU, MULLANA. A questionnaire was formulated to obtain information regarding symptoms, changes, dietary patterns, etc. This data was differentiated, tabulated, and tested. The data collected shows that the majority of the respondents who participated in the survey were on the edge of PCOD. Stein and Leventhal are regarded to have been the first investigators of polycystic ovary syndrome however, in 1721 Vallisneri, an Italian scientist; he described a married, infertile woman with shiny ovaries with a white surface, and the size of pigeon eggs. It was not until early 1990 at a national institute of Health (NIH) sponsored conference on PCOD that formal diagnostic criteria were proposed and afterward largely utilized. Many scientists tried to explain the pathophysiology of PCOS and many studies were made. It is now accepted that it is multifactorial, partly genetic, however, a number of candidate genes have been postulated. Insulin resistance has been noted consistently among many women with PCOS, especially in those with Hyperandrogenism, but it is not included in any of the diagnostic criteria. Now there is strong evidence that cardiovascular diseases risk factors and disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism are all increased in patients with PCOS compared to healthy populations. The criteria was established by a group of experts during a conference in ROTTERDAM held in 2003 are obligatory. The subsequent ROTTERDAM CRITERIA incorporated the size and morphology as determined by an ultrasound of the ovary into the diagnostic criteria. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity among children in the U.S. has tripled since 1980 due to various factors like bad eating habits, and lack of physical exercise, and many more children are getting more and more obese. Many researchers have found that PCOD findings are increasing with time. Finding insulin resistance in obese adolescents gave a different diagnosis of PCOD. Upon further clinical testing, many other symptoms are found like Hirsutism, acne, and menstrual abnormalities. Emans (2005) described PCOS as a diagnosis related to the diagnosis of insulin resistance, not being overweight. For insulin resistance, females don't need to be overweight, they will have insulin resistance even a normal weight female adolescents also have insulin resistance.

Effects of deficiency or supplementation of riboflavin on energy metabolism: a systematic review with preclinical studies.

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a water-soluble micronutrient considered to be a precursor of the nucleotides flavin adenine dinucleotide and flavin mononucleotide. This vitamin makes up mitochondrial complexes and participates as an enzymatic cofactor in several mechanisms associated with energy metabolism. This systematic review collected and discussed the most relevant results on the role of riboflavin in the energy metabolism of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. A systematic search was carried out in the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases using the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study design) strategy. The screening of studies went through 2 stages following predefined eligibility criteria. The information extracted covered reference details, study design, population characteristics, experimental model, treatment parameters and dosage, route of administration, duration of treatment, and results found. The risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias (RoB) tool for in vivo studies and the QUIN tool adapted for in vitro studies, utilizing 10 domains, including selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, attrition bias, reporting bias, and other biases, to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. This review concludes that riboflavin regulates energy metabolism by activating primary metabolic pathways and is involved in energy balance homeostasis.

Characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea related to insulin resistance.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with multiple comorbidities, including diabetes. Its development is preceded by alterations in the initial phase of carbohydrate metabolism characterized by insulin resistance. This study aims to evaluate the role of intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation characteristic of OSA on the risk of insulin resistance among apneic patients without diabetes. 92 consecutive patients with OSA without evidence of diabetes were recruited. Overnight video polysomnography was performed and, the following morning, fasting blood glucose, insulin and glycosylated hemoglobin were determined. Insulin resistance was measured using the HOMA-IR index. Insulin resistance was present in 52.2% of OSA patients. In these subjects, insulin resistance was independently associated to the apnea index during REM sleep (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.16; p = 0.004), desaturation index (aOR 1.08; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.13; p = 0.027), and sleep time with oxygen saturation below 90% (aOR 1.04; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.08; p = 0.049). Furthermore, the HOMA-IR level was also directly related to the desaturation index (standardized regression coefficient [B] = 0.514, p < 0.001) and to the apnea index during REM sleep (B = 0.344, p = 0.002). Intermittent hypoxia and disturbances in REM sleep emerge as main contributors to insulin resistance in OSA patients yet to experience diabetes onset.

Advances in the Modulation of Potato Tuber Dormancy and Sprouting

The post-harvest phase of potato tuber dormancy and sprouting are essential in determining the economic value. The intricate transition from dormancy to active growth is influenced by multiple factors, including environmental factors, carbohydrate metabolism, and hormonal regulation. Well-established environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light play pivotal roles in these processes. However, recent research has expanded our understanding to encompass other novel influences such as magnetic fields, cold plasma treatment, and UV-C irradiation. Hormones like abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GA), cytokinins (CK), auxin, and ethylene (ETH) act as crucial messengers, while brassinosteroids (BRs) have emerged as key modulators of potato tuber sprouting. In addition, jasmonates (JAs), strigolactones (SLs), and salicylic acid (SA) also regulate potato dormancy and sprouting. This review article delves into the intricate study of potato dormancy and sprouting, emphasizing the impact of environmental conditions, carbohydrate metabolism, and hormonal regulation. It explores how various environmental factors affect dormancy and sprouting processes. Additionally, it highlights the role of carbohydrates in potato tuber sprouting and the intricate hormonal interplay, particularly the role of BRs. This review underscores the complexity of these interactions and their importance in optimizing potato dormancy and sprouting for agricultural practices.

Molecular Responses of the Eukaryotic Cell Line INT407 on the Internalized Campylobacter jejuni—The Other Side of the Coin

Campylobacter jejuni is a zoonotic bacterium with the capacity to invade the epithelial cells during the pathogenic process. Several bacterial factors have been identified to contribute to this process, but our knowledge is still very limited about the response of the host. To reveal the major routes of this response, a whole-transcriptome analysis (WTA) was performed where gene expressions were compared between the 1st and the 3rd hours of internalization in INT407 epithelial cells. From the 41,769 human genes tested, altogether, 19,060 genes were shown through WTA to be influenced to different extents. The genes and regulation factors of transcription (296/1052; 28%), signal transduction (215/1052; 21%), apoptosis (153/1052; 15%), immune responses (97/1052; 9%), transmembrane transport (64/1052; 6%), cell–cell signaling (32/1052; 3%), cell–cell adhesions (29/1052; 3%), and carbohydrate metabolism (28/1052; 3%) were the most affected biological functions. A striking feature of the gene expression of this stage of the internalization process is the activation of both immune functions and apoptosis, which convincingly outlines that the invaded cell faces a choice between death and survival. The seemingly balanced status quo between the invader and the host is the result of a complex process that also affects genes known to be associated with postinfectious pathological conditions. The upregulation of TLR3 (3.79×) and CD36 (2.73×), two general tumor markers, and SERPINEB9 (11.37×), FNDC1 (7.58×), and TACR2 (8.84×), three factors of tumorigenesis, confirms the wider pathological significance of this bacterium.

Protein Oxidation in Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Brain

Proteins are essential molecules that play crucial roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and carrying out biological functions such as catalyzing biochemical reactions, structural proteins, immune response, etc. However, proteins also are highly susceptible to damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). In this review, we summarize the role of protein oxidation in normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The major emphasis of this review article is on the carbonylation and nitration of proteins in AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The oxidatively modified proteins showed a strong correlation with the reported changes in brain structure, carbohydrate metabolism, synaptic transmission, cellular energetics, etc., of both MCI and AD brains compared to the controls. Some proteins were found to be common targets of oxidation and were observed during the early stages of AD, suggesting that those changes might be critical in the onset of symptoms and/or formation of the pathological hallmarks of AD. Further studies are required to fully elucidate the role of protein oxidation and nitration in the progression and pathogenesis of AD.