Short-term heat stress adaptation in intertidal oysters (Crassostrea sikamea): Integrative biochemical, transcriptomic and metabolomic insights.

Mechanisms of uranium and cadmium Co-contamination on rhizosphere microecology and accumulation in sweet potato varieties.

Salt–alkali stress is a major abiotic factor limiting plant growth. Dracocephalum moldavica L., an aromatic plant with medicinal and edible value, shows some potential for salt–alkali tolerance, but its response mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, physiological, transcriptomic, and metabolomic approaches were employed to compare the responses of D. moldavica seedlings to salt (NaCl/Na2SO4 = 1:1), alkali (NaHCO3/Na2CO3 = 1:1), and mixed saline–alkali stress (NaCl/Na2SO4/NaHCO3/Na2CO3 = 1:1:1:1). The results showed that all stress types increased the MDA content, with osmotic regulators and antioxidant enzymes helping mitigate damage. Alkali stress caused the most severe chlorophyll and photosynthetic damage. Transcriptomic analysis identified 12,838, 11,124, and 11,460 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under salt, alkali, and mixed saline–alkali stress, respectively. Metabolomic analysis identified 1802, 1937, and 1794 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) under each stress condition. Combined analysis revealed that all stresses activated pathways involved in galactose metabolism, the TCA cycle, pentose–glucuronic acid interconversion, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Salt stress enhanced sucrose hydrolysis and lignification via INV and HCT. Alkali stress promoted the synthesis of 1-O-sinapoyl-β-D-glucose through COMT, improving antioxidant capacity and pH stability. Mixed saline–alkali stress activated genes related to sugar and energy metabolism, leading to the accumulation of xylitol and citric acid. These findings provide insights into D. moldavica’s mechanisms for tolerance, supporting its potential for saline–alkali land use.

Elymus sibiricus L. is a native grass species vital for ecological restoration and livestock production on China's Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, valued for its high yield, superior quality, and strong adaptability. Its awns, a significant morphological structure of the seed, significantly influence seed yield and stress resistance. This study utilized 14 E. sibiricus accessions with distinct awn lengths to investigate the influence of awn length on seed yield and drought resistance. Additionally, it aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying awn length regulation in E. sibiricus. Analysis of five agronomic traits related to seed yield revealed a significant positive correlation between awn length and thousand-grain weight. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis classified the 14 accessions into the long-awned and short-awned groups, with the long-awned group exhibiting higher seed yield potential. Anatomical analysis of awn tissues of the QH002 and GS002 accessions during four stages-heading, flowering, filling, and milk ripening-revealed that the long-awn genotype possessed more developed structures including parenchyma cells, sclerenchyma cells, vascular bundles, and stomata. These structures endows it with enhanced conduction, support, and defense functions. Transcriptome analysis of middle spikes from the QH002 and GS002 genotypes revealed 6,321 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), primarily enriched in metabolic pathways such as photosynthesis, galactose metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism. Among them, two photosystem II-related genes (EsiS02g0031800, EsiH02g0028770) and 11 DEGs associated with carbohydrate metabolism were identified as key candidate genes. Under terminal drought stress, the long-awned accession (QH002) exhibited higher relative water and proline content, and increased antioxidant enzyme activities, compared to the short-awned accession (GS002), whereas malondialdehyde content was higher in the latter. These results indicate that the long-awned accessions possesses enhanced drought tolerance compared to the short-awned accessions. This study demonstrated that long-awned E. sibiricus exhibits higher seed production potential and stronger drought resistance, providing new insights and theoretical support for the breeding of high-yielding and stress-tolerant E. sibiricus varieties. It further adds to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing awn morphogenesis and length determination.

CSBV is a major pathogen threatening the health of A. cerana, but the mechanisms underlying natural resistance in its larval host remain poorly understood. To elucidate this, we established resistant (R) and susceptible (S) larval phenotypes through controlled CSBV inoculation and combined untargeted metabolomics with biochemical assays. Metabolomic profiling revealed a markedly disrupted metabolic state in S larvae, with 8272 differential metabolites compared to controls, versus a more moderate response in R larvae 4208 metabolites. Key pathways, including galactose and glycerophospholipid metabolism, were significantly perturbed. Crucially, R larvae exhibited a profoundly enhanced antioxidant defense in the gut, with activities of catalase, glutathione S-transferase, and superoxide dismutase being 2.5-fold, 1.5-fold, and 2.0-fold higher, respectively, than in S larvae. Our findings demonstrate that CSBV resistance is linked to a modulated metabolic response and a robust, activated antioxidant system, providing new insights into host-pathogen interactions and potential strategies for safeguarding pollinator health.

Galactose, a monosaccharide, plays diverse biological roles in energy production, especially in the glycolysis and glycosylation of proteins and lipids. Galactose metabolism is mediated by the Leloir pathway, which comprises four key enzymes. Following lactose hydrolysis, galactose mutarotase (GALM) catalyzes the anomerization of β-D-galactose to α-D-galactose, providing a substrate for the downstream pathway. In 2019, GALM deficiency was defined as the fourth type of galactosemia. Affected individuals may develop cataracts similar to those observed in individuals with galactokinase deficiency, disrupting the subsequent steps in the Leloir pathway. However, cataracts generally occur less frequently and tend to be milder in patients with GALM deficiency, likely because of the partial compensation provided by spontaneous galactose mutarotation in aqueous solutions. Because lactose, the primary dietary source of galactose, is the predominant carbohydrate consumed until weaning, the timely initiation of lactose restriction can prevent or even reverse cataract formation. To date, other complications or adverse events, including those in heterozygous carriers of GALM variants, have not been clearly demonstrated. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge and findings of GALM deficiency on molecular mechanisms, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, carrier risk, and dietary management, with particular emphasis on cataract prevention and reversibility through early lactose restriction. By consolidating available evidence, we propose future research directions, with broader implications for newborn screening programs, clinical decision-making, and a deeper understanding of galactose metabolism.

GC-MS metabolomics coupled with multi-biomarker analysis reveal toxic effects of functionalized nanoplastics in Paphia undulata.

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum L.) are valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties; however, the systematic biochemical impact of drying on their quality remains poorly understood. This study applied an untargeted metabolomics approach based on UHPLC-HRMS and AntDAS to profile metabolic changes during sun-drying. Multivariate analyses (PCA and PLS-DA) revealed distinct time-dependent clustering, indicating significant shifts in the metabolome. Key metabolites, including betaine, galactose, and trans-ferulic acid, increased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas choline, allantoin, and huperzine isomers decreased. Pathway analysis highlighted glycine, serine, threonine, galactose, and phenylpropanoid metabolism as the central pathways that were affected. These differential metabolites could potentially be used as quality biomarkers. Our findings establish untargeted metabolomics as an effective tool for elucidating the evolution of goji berry quality during drying, offering a theoretical basis for process optimization.

The abyssal environment is characterized by extreme conditions such as high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), low temperature, and high salinity, which affects the protein synthesis of filamentous fungi. The targeted extracellular enzyme regulation mechanism plays a key role in maintaining its survival and colonization in extreme environments. Compared to prokaryotes, studies on the characteristics of extracellular enzymes in abyssal fungi and their role in carbon-nitrogen coupling metabolism remain limited. In this study, we systematically explored the chitinase-producing activity and catalytic efficiency of Purpureocillium lilacinum FDZ8Y1, a filamentous fungus derived from sediments in the Mariana Trench, in different environments. Transcriptome analysis was used to further investigate the changes of chitinase-related energy metabolism in response to HHP. Through gradient environmental stress assays (temperature/salinity/HHP) and comparative enzymatic profiling with congeneric strains, P. lilacinum FDZ8Y1 demonstrates remarkable cold tolerance, salt tolerance, and pressure-responsive characteristics in both enzyme production and catalytic efficiency. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the genes encoding chitinases and the metabolic activities related to chitin degradation and utilization play a pivotal role in the response of this fungus to HHP. HHP stimulation activated the expression of chitinase gene in this fungus, the regulation of cell wall components, as well as key metabolic pathways such as glycolytic - galactose metabolism, fatty acid β -oxidation, and nitrate reductase-mediated nitrogen metabolism. Our research identified the excellent chitinase activity characteristics of P. lilacinum FDZ8Y1 under low temperature and high pressure, identified the metabolic pathway transformation of this fungus in response to HHP, explored the metabolic response models related to chitin degradation and utilization under these conditions, and further analyzed the functional correlations of these metabolic adaptations. This information provides a new idea and direction for further understanding the functional adaptability of deep-sea fungi and exploring the enzyme resources of deep-sea microorganisms.

BackgroundPneumococcal infection, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, is a prevalent cause of community-acquired pneumonia and a major pathogen responsible for illnesses such as meningitis, sepsis, and pharyngitis. The complex etiology of S. pneumoniae infection poses significant challenges in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis.MethodsIn this study, twenty serum samples from individuals infected with S. pneumoniae and fifteen serum samples from normal controls were analyzed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC–MS) to identify metabolites. Multivariate statistical analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), were used to identify potential metabolites. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis was employed to map the metabolic pathways associated with these metabolites.ResultsThrough comparative analysis of the metabolic profiles of infected individuals and normal controls, we identified 418 metabolites that significantly contributed to the differentiation of group samples. The identified metabolites were categorized into various groups, such as amino acids, fatty acids, and phosphatidylcholine, and were enriched in pathways including galactose metabolism, the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway, the citrate cycle, the pentose phosphate pathway, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis. S. pneumoniae infection induced significant variations in the serum metabolome, with activation of metabolic pathways implicated in the immune response.ConclusionOur study provides a comprehensive and real-time analysis of the metabolic network, elucidating the complex processes that occur following pathogen invasion in the human body. The identification of metabolic biomarkers and enriched pathways lays a foundational framework for research and offers visualizable targets for the diagnosis and treatment of pneumococcal infections.

BackgroundSeveral findings have highlighted the importance of diet and ecotoxic compounds on aging. Melamine (Mel), a widely documented food adulterant, has demonstrated toxicity in multiple organs of the human body, including the brain. However, its neurotoxic effects on aging neurons remain unexplored. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the in‐vitro neurotoxic impact of Mel in a D‐galactose (DG)‐induced aging model of neuronal SH‐SY5Y cells.MethodIn the present study, the SH‐SY5Y cells were administered a toxic dose of Mel and DG individually and in combination (Mel + DG) to determine their potential for neurotoxicity. The analysis involved measuring cell viability through MTT assay and morphological examination via neurite length assessment. Furthermore, we evaluated the antioxidant status of the cells by examining catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant activities. Subsequent investigations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and caspase‐3 (Casp3) activity were also performed.ResultThe co‐administration with Mel and DG resulted in the highest cell death compared to individual treatments of Mel or DG and control untreated cells. The combined exposure of Mel and DG also led to significant neurite shrinkage and ROS accumulation, indicating exacerbated toxicity. Moreover, SOD, CAT, and total antioxidant levels were significantly reduced in the co‐treatment (Mel + DG) group than in Mel‐only or DG‐only treated group, showing excessively hampered antioxidant state. Additionally, the Casp3 activity was markedly elevated in the cell group jointly treated with Mel and DG, as compared to Mel or DG alone treated groups, signifying a heightened apoptotic reaction.ConclusionThis study provides early insights into the increased neurotoxic potential of Melamine (Mel) in an aging model of neuronal cells. The outcomes reveal that Mel consumption in the elderly may contribute to a higher risk of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Chemometric dissection of typical tropical rambutan: revealing the unique metabolite profiles.

Integrated transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal effects of carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes on Suaeda salsa under saline-alkali stress.

ABSTRACTImproving meat quality is an important goal in beef production. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the biochemical characteristics that drive muscle development and fat deposition and their effects on final quality is important in the fields of meat science and animal production. Recent research has shown that metabolites can be utilized as biological indicators for measuring meat quality. Therefore, the general meat quality, texture profile, and differentially abundant metabolites in longissimus lumborum from 10 Kazakh (with low fat content) cattle (KAZ) and 10 Xinjiang brown (with high fat content) cattle (BC) were analyzed. A total of 800 metabolites were detected, among which were 47 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs), including 1 amine, 1 heterocyclic compound, 1 tryptamine choline pigment, 18 amino acid derivatives, 3 benzene and its substituted derivatives, 5 fatty acyls, 3 glycoproteins, 5 nucleotides and their metabolites, 5 organic acids and their derivatives, and 5 carbohydrates and their metabolites. The top 5 up‐ and downregulated DAMs between the two breeds included Arg‐Lys, Pro‐Glu‐Val, 4‐(aminomethyl) indole, N6‐(2‐hydroxyethyl) adenosine, methyldopa, and biliverdin, which are related to metabolic pathways such as arginine and proline metabolism, galactose metabolism, endocrine resistance, and glycerolipid metabolism, potentially affecting meat quality, including sensory acceptability. These results suggest that metabolites are potentially useful biological indicators for measuring meat quality and provide an important theoretical basis for improving beef flavor and taste.

Selenium-mediated detoxification in Brassica: variety-specific regulation of photosynthesis, lipid remodeling, and metabolic reprogramming under multi-metal(loid) stress.

Four-dimensional data independent acquisition proteomics and metabolomics reveal mechanisms of hydrogen-rich water at Zusanli (ST36) point against triple-negative breast cancer in mice.

Zn(II)2Cys6 protein PeGlp modulates galactose metabolism, regulates virulence, and stress responses in Penicillium expansum

A pH-response nano pesticide delivery system based on ZIF-8: effectiveness, delivery and safety in mustard application.

Background: Low-fat diet (LFD) is widely applied in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but the limited efficacy and difficulty in maintaining it hinder its wider promotion. Partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) is well-known as a probiotic in modulating gut microbiota, which is crucial in T2DM. However, the combined effects of LFD and PHGG remain unknown. Methods: Mice with T2DM were divided into 4 groups: T2DM control (DM-high-fat diet), LFD alone (DM-LFD), or LFD combined with low or high doses of PHGG (PHGG-L/H, 2.5% and 7.5% (w/w)) for 12 weeks. Serum lipid profiles, fasting blood glucose (FBG), HOMA-IR, and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) were assessed. Furthermore, microbiota composition, fecal metabolites, and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, untargeted metabolomics, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, respectively. Results: LFD improved dyslipidemia but not glucose metabolism disorders. However, PHGG remarkably decreased FBG and HOMA-IR, and increased glucose tolerance. PHGG upregulated the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, including the genera Dubosiella, Bifidobacterium, and Ruminococcus, which were negatively correlated with FBG, HOMA-IR, and AUC (IPGTT). Moreover, the metabolic pathways altered by PHGG were enriched in tryptophan, tyrosine, and galactose metabolism. Fecal propionic acid and butyric acid, positively correlated with the abundance of genera Dubosiella and Ruminococcus, were markedly decreased by 50% and 44% in the DM-LFD group, but increased 2-fold after PHGG supplementation. Conclusions: PHGG combined with LFD might be a potential strategy to ameliorate glucose metabolic disorders, likely through modulating gut microbiota and the production of propionic acid and butyric acid.

BackgroundThe widely accepted “multi-hit hypothesis” of IgAN pathogenesis was challenged, as efficient depletion of CD20+ B cells failed to reduce serum galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) or proteinuria in IgAN patients. Our group has discovered glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs) as another source of IgA, while immunoglobulin produced by non-B cells (non-B Ig) participating in several inflammatory and neoplastic diseases arose as a new concept in immunology. It is still unclear whether IgA produced by GMCs participates in the pathogenesis of IgAN and what its preliminary mechanism is.MethodsThe transcription of IGHA1 and its associated function in GMCs were demonstrated by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. IGHA1 transcription in glomerular mesangium was detected in para-cancerous renal tissues by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) antagonist, and small interfering RNA (siRNA) were used to investigate the pro-inflammatory effect of Gd-IgA1 and its overproduction pathway. The IgAN model was established in μMT mice (lacking B lymphocytes with reduced serum IgA) and mice with IGHA conditional knockout in GMCs to observe the causality between GMC-expressed IgA and the formation of IgAN.ResultsExpression of IgA in GMCs was reconfirmed by detecting IGHA1 transcription in single cells and in para-cancerous renal tissue in situ. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) indicated that IGHA1 transcription in GMC was significantly associated with response to bacterium, innate immune response, complement activation, and galactose metabolism. Cultured human GMC experiments revealed that SEB could stimulate Gd-IgA1 overproduction through the TLR4 signaling pathway, and Gd-IgA1 deficiency in GMCs relieved the extracellular matrix component (ECM) deposition and C3 and IL-6 production induced by SEB. Mesangial IgA deposition and ECM expansion pattern in the μMT mouse IgAN model were similar to those in Balb/c mice, and mice with IGHA conditional knockout in GMCs relieved glomerular inflammatory response and alleviated the hematuria and proteinuria in the mouse IgAN model.ConclusionWe reconfirmed the expression of IgA in GMCs and demonstrated that overexpression of Gd-IgA1 in GMCs induced by SEB through the TLR4 pathway in human GMC may play an important role in inducing an inflammatory response in IgAN.