Trimethylamine N-oxide Research Articles

Revisiting the Role of Carnitine in Heart Disease Through the Lens of the Gut Microbiota

L-Carnitine, sourced from red meat, dairy, and endogenous synthesis, plays a vital role in fatty acid metabolism and energy production. While beneficial for cardiovascular, muscular, and neural health, its interaction with the gut microbiota and conversion into trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) raise concerns about heart health. TMAO, produced through the gut-microbial metabolism of L-carnitine and subsequent liver oxidation, is associated with cardiovascular risks, including atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and stroke. It contributes to cholesterol deposition, vascular dysfunction, and platelet aggregation. Omnivorous diets, rich in L-carnitine, are associated with higher TMAO levels compared to plant-based diets, which are linked to lower cardiovascular disease risks. Dietary interventions, such as increasing fiber, polyphenols, and probiotics, can modulate the gut microbiota to reduce TMAO production. These strategies seek to balance L-carnitine’s benefits with its potential risks related to TMAO production. Future research should focus on personalized approaches to optimize L-carnitine use while mitigating its cardiovascular impacts, exploring microbial modulation and dietary strategies to minimize the TMAO levels and associated risks.

The Relationship Between Water Physical Quality and Skin Disease Complaints in KB Village, Percut Sei Tuan District

Clean water is a basic need for humans, so its availability is very important. Clean water quality can have an impact on health. However, if the quality of clean water does not meet the requirements, such as a fishy odor and a yellow-brown water color, then this can result in skin diseases. This research aims to determine the condition of the physical quality of water used by the community and determine the relationship between the physical quality of water and complaints of skin diseases. Quantitative research using the chi-square analysis test was used on a population of 680 families and a sample of 55 respondents were obtained which were randomly selected. The results of this study show that the relationship between physical water quality and complaints of skin diseases obtained a significance value of 0.011 < 0.05. The conclusion of this research is that the physical quality of water influences complaints of skin diseases in KB village, Percut Sei Tuan District. Researchers submit suggestions to the Government to provide more physical water facilities to the people of Kampung KB and the community is expected to pay attention to the physical quality of water to avoid complaints of skin diseases.

Plasma Metabolite Profiles Between In-Center Daytime Extended-Hours and Conventional Hemodialysis.

Protein-energy wasting, characterized by disordered body protein catabolism resulting from metabolic and nutritional derangements, is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Extended-hours hemodialysis (≥6 h per treatment session) offers both enhanced removal of uremic solutes and better fluid management, generally allowing more liberalized dietary protein and calorie intake. This study aimed to evaluate the difference in plasma metabolite profiles among patients receiving in-center daytime extended-hours hemodialysis and those receiving conventional hemodialysis. Pre-dialysis plasma samples were obtained from 188 patients on extended-hours hemodialysis (21.9 h/week) and 286 patients on conventional hemodialysis (12.1 h/week) in Japan in 2020 using capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry. Group differences were compared for 117 metabolites using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests with multiple comparisons and partial least squares discriminant analysis. Additionally, propensity score-adjusted multiple regression analyses were performed to evaluate group differences for known uremic toxins, branched-chain amino acids, and lactate-to-pyruvate ratio (a possible surrogate marker of mitochondrial dysfunction). Significant differences were observed in 39 metabolites, largely consistent with the high variable importance for prediction in partial least squares discriminant analysis. Among known uremic toxins, uridine and hypoxanthine levels were significantly higher in the conventional hemodialysis group than in the extended-hours hemodialysis group, whereas trimethylamine N-oxide levels were higher in the extended-hours hemodialysis group than in the conventional hemodialysis group. Patients on extended-hours hemodialysis had higher levels of all branched-chain amino acids and a lower lactate-to-pyruvate ratio than those on conventional hemodialysis (significant difference of -8.6 [95% confidence interval, -9.8 to -7.4]). Extended-hours hemodialysis was associated with a more favorable plasma metabolic and amino acid profile; however, concentrations of most uremic toxins did not significantly differ from those of conventional hemodialysis.

Effect of Lime Solution Soaking on Physicochemical Characteristics of Catfish Bone Powder (Arius thalassinus)

Fish bone powder is one of the fisheries by product processing that has a high nutritional content, especially calcium and phosphorus content. In the processing of fish bone powder, the fishy odor is still detected due to organic compound such as protein and lipid which produce volatile compounds yielded unpleasant odor. The use of lime can eliminate fishy odors, improve color, shape, taste, texture, and extend shelf life. This study aimed to determine the difference of lime solution concentration on the physicochemical characteristics of catfish bone powder and to determine the best lime concentration used on the volatile compound content of catfish bone powder. The method carried out in this study was a laboratory experimental method and used a Complete Random Design (CRD) with 4 treatments (0%, 15%, 20%, 25%) and carried out in triplicate. Data analysis from physical and chemical tests were analyzed using ANOVA, while hedonic tests were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Mann-Whitney test. The results showed that soaking lime solution had a significant effect (P<5%) on moisture content, protein content, fat content, ash content, calcium content and color. Catfish bone powder with the best treatment of soaking in lime solution of 20% contained a calcium of 25.17%.The results of the hedonic test showed that the best treatment (20%) had a confidence interval of 3.95 < μ < 4.19 from 5 scale. The volatile compound of 4-[4-(dimethylamine) Benzaldehyde associated with fishy odor was detected in fish bone powder without lime solution, but it could not be detected in sample soaked in 20% lime solution showing the capability of lime solution to reduce fishy odor in fishbone powder.

Association between plasma trimethylamine N-oxide and cerebral white matter hyperintensity: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundCerebral white matter hyperintensity (WMH) is a pivotal imaging feature of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), closely correlated with an elevated risk of ischemic stroke (IS). Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a metabolite of gut microbiota, is increasingly associated with IS and atherosclerosis. However, the intricate relationship between TMAO and WMH remains ambiguous. This study aimed to study the connection between plasma TMAO and WMH. Furthermore, it assessed the potential of TMAO as a risk evaluation instrument for WMH.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we categorized WMH into periventricular WMH (P-WMH) and deep WMH (D-WMH), based on its locations. The severity of WMH was assessed and grouped according to the Fazekas scale. Plasma TMAO levels were quantitatively determined. We established the correlation between plasma TMAO levels and WMH severity using a Logistic regression model. Additionally, we employed ROC curves to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of plasma TMAO concentration in distinguishing the severity of WMH.ResultsA higher plasma TMAO tertile was significantly linked to a higher Fazekas score, encompassing the overall score, P-WMH score, and D-WMH score (p < 0.001). A logical regression analysis revealed that plasma TMAO levels were independently associated with overall moderate and severe WMH, compared to overall non-mild WMH, in the unadjusted model (OR = 1.373, 95%CI 1.183–1.594 for moderate; OR = 1.384, 95%CI 1.192–1.607 for severe), the adjusted model a (OR = 1.436, 95%CI 1.214–1.669 for moderate; OR = 1.446, 95%CI 1.222–1.711 for severe) and the adjusted model b (OR = 1.490, 95%CI 1.234–1.800 for moderate; OR = 1.494, 95%CI 1.237–1.805 for severe). The analysis also showed an independent correlation between plasma TMAO levels and WMH severity, irrespective of the unadjusted model, adjusted model a, or adjusted model b, when considering P-WMH and D-WMH severity. The ROC indicated that, in overall WMH and P-WMH, the area under curve (AUC) for non-mild and severe WMH were both>0.5, while the AUC for moderate WMH was<0.5. In contrast, in D-WMH, the AUC for non-mild, moderate, and severe WMH were all>0.5.ConclusionPlasma TMAO levels exhibited a significant correlation with both overall and region-specific WMH severity. Furthermore, the plasma TMAO levels displayed robust predictive capability for D-WMH.

Vaginal cleansing soap causes pathological vaginal discharge: a case study

Introduction: Vaginal discharge or another name is flour albus or leukorrhea, which occurs in women who are teenagers or of childbearing age. 75% of women will experience vaginal discharge at least once in their lives. Abnormal vaginal discharge is caused by infection from various microorganisms. In Indonesia alone, 90% of women are at risk of experiencing pathological vaginal discharge due to the tropical climate. Women often do vaginal cleaning or vaginal douching. Usually, this activity uses vaginal cleansing fluid. Objective: This study aims to dig deeper into the relationship between the use of vaginal cleansing soaps and pathological vaginal discharge in women, hoping to provide better insight into the effects of using these products and provide appropriate health recommendations. Method: The research design uses a descriptive case study method which aims to describe the relationship between two things experienced by the patient, namely vaginal discharge and the habit of cleaning the vagina with vaginal cleansing soap. Results: A 30-year-old woman came to the clinic with complaints of vaginal discharge coming out of her vagina. The vaginal discharge also feels thick, smells fishy, ​​and feels very itchy in the vaginal area. On physical examination, mucopurulent vaginal discharge with a fishy odor was found. The labia majora looks swollen and red. By using a speculum, the cervix appears reddish. No abrasions or blood spots were found on the cervical neck. Conclusion: There is a relationship between the use of vaginal cleansing soap and the emergence of pathological vaginal discharge. Changes in the acidity of the vagina influence the emergence of pathological flora. There is a need to increase Knowledge of how to maintain vaginal cleanliness, not just using vaginal cleansing fluids. With this study, it is further proven that the use of vaginal cleansing soap can cause pathological vaginal discharge. It is necessary to have good education for women with pathological vaginal discharge so that there is no recurrence of similar cases. In the case study above, it is essential to carry out additional examinations to find out the cause of the vaginal discharge, whether it is fungus, bacteria, or protozoa so that it can speed up the healing of the patient. With this research, it is also hoped that it can be an example of health care about pathological vaginal discharge and increase women's Knowledge of what kind of good vaginal cleaning behavior.

Association of trimethylamine N-oxide and metabolites with kidney function decline in patients with chronic kidney disease

BackgroundTrimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a gut microbial metabolite derived from dietary L-carnitine and choline. High plasma TMAO levels are associated with cardiovascular disease and overall mortality, but little is known about the associations of TMAO and related metabolites with the risk of kidney function decline among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). MethodsWe prospectively followed 152 nondialysis patients with CKD stages 3–5 and measured plasma TMAO and related metabolites (trimethylamine [TMA], choline, carnitine, and γ-butyrobetaine) via liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry. An estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope >3 ml/min/per 1.73 m2 per year was defined as a rapid decline. We performed logistic regression to determine the probability of rapid or slow eGFR decline, with each metabolite as the main predictor. The gut microbiota was profiled via whole metagenomic sequencing. ResultsThe participants had a median age of 66 years, 41.4% were women, 39.5% had diabetes, and the median eGFR was 23 mL/min/1.73 m2. A rapid decrease in the eGFR occurred in 65 patients (42.8%) over a median follow-up of 3.3 years. After adjustment for baseline eGFR, proteinuria, and clinical factors, plasma TMAO levels were independently associated with increased odds of rapid eGFR decline (odds ratio, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.36–4.32), whereas plasma TMA, choline, carnitine, and γ-butyrobetaine levels were not. Patients who exhibited rapid eGFR decline had a distinct gut microbial composition characterized by increased α-diversity and an abundance of TMA-producing bacteria, including those of the genera Desulfovibrio and Collinsella tanakaei, as well as increased expression of the TMA-producing enzymes bbuA and cutC. ConclusionOur findings suggest the relevance of plasma TMAO in the progression of kidney disease among patients with CKD.

Glycation modification of protein hydrolysate from channel catfish (Ictalurus Punetaus) viscera to mitigate undesirable flavor: Unraveling structure and flavor characteristics

To investigate the impacts of glycation modification on the structure and flavor of fish viscera-derived protein hydrolysates, channel catfish viscera was utilized and hydrolyzed by Flavourzyme, followed by glycation with glucosamine, xylose, ribose and glucose, respectively. The structural characteristics, taste and odor of glycated products were evaluated. The results revealed that glycation led to an increase in peptides (<1 kDa) and a decrease in peptide fraction (>5 kDa). UV and fluorescence spectra indicated a gradual rise in absorbance and fluorescence intensity. Glucosamine-induced glycation significantly mitigated bitterness, while enhancing saltiness and umami. GC–MS/MS analysis revealed that glycation led to reduced undesirable odor, and formation of aromatic compounds. LC-MS/MS identified Arg and Lys as the main modification sites. Interestingly, aldehydes were found to modify peptides via carbonyl-amine reaction, leading to decreased fishy odor. The present study contributes to flavor improvement of fish viscera-derived peptides through glycation and high-value utilization of fish viscera.

Elucidating metabolic pathways through genomic analysis in highly heavy metal-resistant Halobacterium salinarum strains

The annotated and predicted genomes of five archaeal strains (AS1, AS2, AS8, AS11 and AS19), isolated from Sfax solar saltern sediments (Tunisia) and affiliated with Halobacterium salinarum, were performed by RAST webserver (Rapid Annotation using Subsystem Technology) and NCBI prokaryotic genome annotation pipeline (PGAP). The results showed the ability of strains to use a reduced semi-phosphorylative Entner-Doudoroff pathway for glucose degradation and an Embden-Meyerhof one for gluconeogenesis. They could use glucose, fructose, glycerol, and acetate as sole source of carbon and energy. ATP synthase, various cytochromes and aerobic respiration proteins were encoded. All strains showed fermentation capability through the arginine deiminase pathway and facultative anaerobic respiration using electron acceptors (Dimethyl sulfoxide and trimethylamine N-oxide). Several biosynthesis pathways for many amino acids were identified. Comparative and pangenome analyses between the strains and the well-studied halophilic archaea Halobacterium NRC-1 highlighted a notable dissimilarity. Besides, the strains shared a core genome of 1973 genes and an accessory genome of 767 genes. 129, 94, 67, 15 and 29 unique genes were detected in the AS1, AS2, AS8, AS11 and AS19 genomes, respectively. Most of these unique genes code for hypothetical proteins. The strains displayed plant-growth promoting characteristics under heavy metal stress (Ammonium assimilation, phosphate solubilization, chemotaxis, cell motility and production of indole acetic acid, siderophore and phenazine). Therefore, they could be used as a biofertilizer to promote plant growth. The genomes encoded numerous biotechnologically relevant genes responsible for vitamin biosynthesis, including cobalamin, folate, biotin, pantothenate, riboflavin, thiamine, menaquinone, nicotinate, and nicotinamide. The carotenogenetic pathway of the studied strains was also predicted. Consequently, the findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the halophilic archaea metabolism providing valuable insights into their ecophysiology as well as relevant biotechnological applications.

Serum trimethylamine N-oxide and its precursors are associated with the occurrence of mild cognition impairment as well as changes in neurocognitive status

Serum trimethylamine N-oxide and its precursors are associated with the occurrence of mild cognition impairment as well as changes in neurocognitive status

Preparation of Low-Fishy Microencapsulated DHA-Rich Algal Oil Powder Using Infant Rice Powder

Commercial DHA-rich algal oil has some issues, such as an unpleasant odor and susceptibility to oxidation. The main fishy odor compounds in commercial DHA-rich algal oil powder and DHA-rich algal oil microcapsules are hexanal and (E, E)-2,4-heptadienal. To address this issue, a microencapsulation process was designed for DHA-rich algal oil using infant rice powder (IRP), maltodextrin (MD), and whey protein concentrate (WPC) as wall materials, with sodium starch octenyl succinate (SSOS) and monoacylglycerol (MAC) as emulsifiers. The spray-drying method was used for microencapsulation. The experimental data showed that microcapsules with wall materials in a ratio of IRP/MD/WPC = 1:3:1 and an emulsifier content of 3.5% (SSOS and MAC) had the highest encapsulation efficiency (85.20 ± 6.03%) and the lowest aldehyde content (65.38 ± 3.23%). This microcapsule showed a good appearance and better oxidation stability compared with the crude oil, with a water content and average particle size of 1.69 ± 0.57% and 631.60 ± 23.19 nm, respectively. The results indicated that DHA-rich algal oil microcapsules prepared with infant rice powder had a lower fishy odor and better sensory acceptability compared to commercial DHA-rich algal oil powder.

Is there a correlation between TMAO plasma levels and archaea in the gut of patients undergoing hemodialysis?

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) present high plasma levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a uremic toxin produced by gut microbiota associated with atherogenesis. Experimental studies have shown that certain methanogenic archaea members use trimethylamine (TMA), the TMAO precursor in the human gut, to produce methane, suggesting a potential strategy to reduce TMAO levels in patients with CKD. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the association of Archaea in the gut microbiota and TMAO plasma levels in patients with CKD undergoing hemodialysis. Twenty-five patients were enrolled in the study (15 women, 53 (18) years, BMI, 25.8 (6.75) kg/m2). TMAO plasma levels were evaluated using the HPLC-EM/EM method. Fecal DNA was extracted using a commercial kit. Subsequently, we sequenced the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene to characterize the microbial composition. NCT04600258 was retrospectively registered in September 2022. According to the reference values in the European Uremic Toxins Work Group (EUTox) database, the patients exhibited high TMAO plasma levels, as expected. The most abundant Archaea members were assigned to the Euryarchaeota phylum, the Methanobacteriaceae family, and the genus Methanobrevibacter. A significant negative correlation between TMAO and Methanobrevibacter was observed. To our knowledge, this study represents the first investigation into the correlation between TMAO levels and the prevalence of Archaea in patients with CKD. Our findings support the archaebiotic hypothesis, suggesting that specific members of the archaea community could play a crucial role in reducing TMA production in the human gut, potentially decreasing TMAO synthesis in CKD patients.

Hybrid aerogels of spirulin and whey proteins as novel cellular solids

This work proposes a new strategy to obtain cellular solids of spirulin (SP) cells and whey protein (WP) using the aerogel production process. To this aim, aqueous suspensions containing 20 g/100 g of a mixture of WP and SP in different ratios, were submitted to thermal gelation. The obtained hydrogels were characterised by an intense green colour and the typical unpleasant fishy odour of SP. Hydrogels were then submitted to ethanol solvent exchange and supercritical-CO2 drying, leading to hybrid aerogels, which were analysed for physical properties (colour, density, volume contraction, firmness, microstructure). The conversion of hydrogels into aerogels partially reduced their green colour. The increase in SP in the aerogel progressively decreased its firmness, so that the aerogels obtained from suspensions containing more than 10 g/100 g spirulin were not able to maintain the continuity of the aerogel network. The latter was demonstrated by SEM to consist of dried WP microgels organised in a tri-dimensional architecture embedding SP cells. The aerogel obtained from 10 g/100 g SP suspension did not swell or disintegrate upon absorption of both water and oil. Sensory analysis also showed this sample to have negligible SP odour. These results open new possibilities in the development of hybrid cellular solids with neutral sensory properties, posing the basis for a new approach to the engineering of food tissue analogues.

Gut Microbe-Generated Metabolite Trimethylamine-N-Oxide and Ischemic Stroke.

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is a gut microbiota-derived metabolite, the production of which in vivo is mainly regulated by dietary choices, gut microbiota, and the hepatic enzyme flavin monooxygenase (FMO), while its elimination occurs via the kidneys. The TMAO level is positively correlated with the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies have found that TMAO plays an important role in the development of ischemic stroke. In this review, we describe the relationship between TMAO and ischemic stroke risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, etc.), disease risk, severity, prognostic outcomes, and recurrence and discuss the possible mechanisms by which they interact. Importantly, TMAO induces atherosclerosis and thrombosis through lipid metabolism, foam cell formation, endothelial dysfunction (via inflammation, oxidative stress, and pyroptosis), enhanced platelet hyper-reactivity, and the upregulation and activation of vascular endothelial tissue factors. Although the pathogenic mechanisms underlying TMAO's aggravation of disease severity and its effects on post-stroke neurological recovery and recurrence risk remain unclear, they may involve inflammation, astrocyte function, and pro-inflammatory monocytes. In addition, this paper provides a summary and evaluation of relevant preclinical and clinical studies on interventions regarding the gut-microbiota-dependent TMAO level to provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of ischemic stroke through the gut microbe-TMAO pathway.

Intestinal Insights: The Gut Microbiome's Role in Atherosclerotic Disease: A Narrative Review.

Recent advances have highlighted the gut microbiota as a significant contributor to the development and progression of atherosclerosis, which is an inflammatory cardiovascular disease (CVD) characterized by plaque buildup within arterial walls. The gut microbiota, consisting of a diverse collection of microorganisms, impacts the host's metabolism, immune responses, and lipid processing, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis. This review explores the complex mechanisms through which gut dysbiosis promotes atherogenesis. We emphasize the potential of integrating microbiota modulation with traditional cardiovascular care, offering a holistic approach to managing atherosclerosis. Important pathways involve the translocation of inflammatory microbial components, modulation of lipid metabolism through metabolites such as trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that influence vascular health. Studies reveal distinct microbial profiles in atherosclerosis patients, with increased pathogenic bacteria (Megamonas, Veillonella, Streptococcus) and reduced anti-inflammatory genera (Bifidobacterium, Roseburia), highlighting the potential of these profiles as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Probiotics are live microorganisms that have health benefits on the host. Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria. Interventions targeting microbiota, such as probiotics, prebiotics, dietary modifications, and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), present effective approaches for restoring microbial equilibrium and justifying cardiovascular risk. Future research should focus on longitudinal, multi-omics studies to clarify causal links and refine therapeutic applications.

Periplaneta americana L. extract exerts neuroprotective effects by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress via AKT-dependent pathway in experimental models of Parkinson’s disease

BackgroundParkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that currently has no curable strategies. More and more evidence suggests that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an essential role in PD pathogenesis. Periplaneta americana L. (P. americana) is a traditional Chinese medicine with diverse therapeutic properties. This study aims to investigate the neuroprotective effect and underlying mechanism of P. americana in in vitro and in vivo PD models.MethodsThe exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-pyridinium (MPP+) was used as the in vitro PD model. MTT assay, Hoechst staining, Calcein AM-PI staining and flow cytometry were performed to measure the cell viability and apoptosis. DCFH-DA and JC-1 assay were used to measure the intracellular ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), respectively. Western-blot and immunostaining were conducted to detect the expression of key molecules related with ER stress. For the in vivo PD model induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydro-pyridine (MPTP), the motor function of mice was assessed by behavioral tests, the level of TH was examined by western-blot and immunostaining, the expression of key molecules related with ER stress was measured by western-blot.ResultsPeriplaneta americana ethanol extract (PAE) concentration-dependently inhibited MPP+-induced cell loss and increased cell viability. PAE also remarkably attenuated ROS accumulation, the decline of Δψm as well as the excessive ER stress. The neuroprotective effects of PAE could be blocked by ROS inducer trimethylamine N-Oxide or ER stress activator tunicaymycin, while the antioxidant N-Acetyl-L-cysteine or ER stress inhibitor sodium 4-phenylbutyrate mimicked the effects of PAE. Furthermore, we found that PAE could activate AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway. The effect of PAE on ROS production, Δψm and ER stress was blocked by AKT inhibitor MK-2206. In in vivo model, PAE significantly improved motor function, prevented dopaminergic neuronal loss and attenuated ER stress in substantia nigra and striatum of MPTP-treated mice. Similarly, the effects of PAE on MPTP-treated mice were also abolished by MK-2206.ConclusionsOur results suggest that P. americana exerts neuroprotective effects through inhibiting ER stress via AKT-dependent pathway. Periplaneta americana may represent a promising therapeutic agent for PD treatment and is worthy of further being exploited.

Puerarin alleviates atherosclerosis via the inhibition of Prevotella copri and its trimethylamine production

ObjectivePuerarin (PU) is a natural compound that exhibits limited oral bioavailability but has shown promise in the treatment of atherosclerosis (AS). However, the precise mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain...

Comparison of the protective effects of silymarin and thymoquinone in the focal cerebral ischemia–reperfusion rat model

ABSTRACT Silymarin and thymoquinone exert neuroprotective effects, although their combined effects in focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) models are unknown. We compared the effect of silymarin and thymoquinone in an I/R rat model. Wistar rats were divided into five groups: SHAM, REP (I/R), SIR (200 mg/kg silymarin+I/R), TIR (3 mg/kg thymoquinone+I/R), and STIR (200 mg/kg silymarin+3-mg thymoquinone+I/R). The rats underwent bilateral carotid artery occlusion for 30 min and neurological assessments 24 h thereafter. Apoptosis was evaluated using anti-caspase-3 and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays. Astrocyte activation was determined using an anti-GFAP antibody. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) levels were measured. SHAM and REP rats had the lowest and highest neurological scores, respectively (p = 0.001). REP rats showed greater deterioration than SIR, TIR, and STIR rats. SIR, TIR, and STIR rats had fewer TUNEL and caspase-3-positive cells than REP rats (p<0.05). GFAP expression was higher in REP rats (p<0.05) than in SIR, TIR, and STIR rats (p<0.05). SIR and TIR rats showed higher TAS than REP rats (p<0.05). SIR, TIR, and STIR rats had lower TMAO values than REP and SHAM rats (p<0.05). Silymarin/thymoquinone reduces impairment, apoptosis, and astrocyte activation. Combination therapy reduces TMAO levels.

Temperature-Dependent Trimethylamine N-Oxide Induced the Formation of Substance P Dimers.

Interactions of the peptide substance P (SP) (RPKPQQFFGLM-NH2) with trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) were investigated by using cryo-ion mobility-mass spectrometry (cryo-IM-MS), variable-temperature (278-358 K) electrospray ionization (vT-ESI) MS, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Cryo-IM-MS provides evidence that cold solutions containing SP and TMAO yield abundant hydrated SP dimer ions, but dimer formation is inhibited in solutions that also contain urea. In addition, we show that SP dimer formation at cold solution temperatures (<298 K) is favored when TMAO interacts with the hydrophobic C-terminus of SP and is subject to reduced entropic penalty when compared to warmer solution conditions (>298 K). MD simulations show that TMAO lowers the free energy barrier for dimerization and that monomers dimerize by forming hydrogen bonds (HBs). Moreover, differences in oligomer abundances for SP mutants (P4A, P2,4A, G9P, and P2,4A/G9P) provide evidence that oligomerization facilitated by TMAO is sensitive to the cis/trans orientation of residues at positions 2, 4, and 9.

Enhanced lutein and protein production with improved organoleptic properties in a novel yellow strain of Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa mutant through atmospheric and room temperature plasma mutagenesis and norflurazon-based screening

To achieve the triple purpose of enhancing lutein and protein contents as well as improving organoleptic properties in biomass of Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa mutant as raw material of future food, a novel yellow mutant, CX41 strain, was successfully selected through atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis and norflurazon-based screening. CX41 strain exhibited a significantly increased lutein (0.86 mg/g) and protein (49.00 % DW) contents simultaneously, while higher levels of total (33.47 % DW) and essential amino acids (14.78 % DW) were achieved with higher amino acid score (86.49) than that of the original A4-1 strain, a yellow and high protein mutant bred previously. Sensory evaluation showed that CX41 biomass has more comparable to A4-1, while in comparison to the wild type (WT), it has a more inclination towards roasted, with a fainter grassy, woody, rancid and fishy odor, and a significant improvement in taste is reflected by a decrease of 8.40 % in sweetness, a reduction of 14.86 % in bitterness, and an increase of 5.93 % in umami intensity. Metabolome analysis revealed that the superior sensory profile was due to the significantly reduced relative odor activity of β-ionone (herbaceous odor) and substances such as 1-octene, hexanal, 1-octen-3-ol, and heptanal (fishy and rancid odors). The extensive enhancements demonstrated CX41 biomass as a highly promising raw material with high nutrients of lutein and protein as well as excellent taste and flavor for future food application.