Higher Collagen Content Research Articles

Prognostic significance of collagen content in solitary fibrous tumors of the central nervous system.

We aimed to explore the prognostic significance of collagen content in solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) of the central nervous system (CNS) and preliminarily investigate its relationship with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of SFTs. Collagen content was identified using Masson's trichrome staining, and quantitatively assessed. Radiomic methods were applied to extract quantitative MRI features of SFTs, which were then analyzed in relation to collagen content. The collagen content in CNS SFTs was categorized into high- and low-content groups, with a cutoff value of 6%. Survival analysis indicated a positive correlation between collagen content and overall survival (OS). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, incorporating factors such as mitosis, necrosis, Ki67, and collagen content and other indicators, collagen content emerged as an independent prognostic factor. Collagen content demonstrated a negative correlation with tumor histological phenotype, Ki67, WHO grade, mitosis, necrosis, and brain invasion. Additionally, the signal intensity of SFTs on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) decreased with increasing collagen content. Radiomics analysis identified 1,702 features from each patient's region of interest, with 12 features showing significant differences between the high and low collagen content groups. Among the quantitative parameters and radiomic models, the combined T1- and T2WI models exhibited the highest diagnostic performance. These findings suggest that collagen content is an independent prognostic risk factor for OS. Furthermore, combined radiomic models based on T1-and T2WI sequences may offer a more comprehensive, objective, and accurate assessment of collagen content in CNS SFTs.

Surface Metabolite Amino Acids and Collagen Profiling in Refrigerated Tilapia Fish (Oreochromis niloticus): Implications for Identification and Quality Assessment

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) by-products, including the scales, skin, and mucus, are rich sources of protein with a balanced amino acid profile and high collagen content. Cold storage at 4 ℃ is commonly used to maintain the freshness of tilapia fish in retail settings. This study aims to investigate the changes in surface metabolites and collagen content in tilapia fish during cold storage at 4 ℃. Fresh tilapia fish was stored at 4 ℃ for 7 days to monitor physicochemical and metabolite changes. Fish collagen content was extracted using acetic acid and pepsin, pH values were measured using a calibrated pH meter, protein content was determined via the Bradford method, and creatine and phenylalanine levels were assessed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Analysis was conducted on days 0, 3, and 7 of cold storage. Significant reductions (p<0.05) in collagen content from fish scales were observed on the 3rd day of storage, declining from 72.60 ± 12.40% to 30.17 ± 17.62%. pH levels of fish scales and mucus showed a slight alkaline shift, while the skin turned acidic due to bacterial and enzymatic activities. Protein content in the scales, skin, and mucus showed a substantial loss exceeding 50% after 7 days of cold storage. Changes in creatine and phenylalanine concentrations in the mucus further indicated a decline in tilapia fish freshness due to biochemical reactions post-mortem, compromising overall quality. In conclusion, the duration of cold storage significantly affects the composition of tilapia fish scales, skin, and mucus, with a 7-day storage period identified as a suitable freshness indicator in compliance with FDA guidelines permitting fresh fish to be stored at 4 °C for up to two days.

Extraction and characterisation of gelatine from yellowfin tuna skin pretreated with a eutectic solvent

The accumulation and management of waste generated during the processing of seafood products is one of the major current challenges in the fishery industry. Among these residues, fish skin stands out for its high collagen content, from which high-quality gelatine can be obtained. However, conventional methods for gelatine extraction are time-consuming and complex processes that involve the use of strong acidic and alkaline solutions, leading to serious environmental concerns. This research studied the use of a eutectic solvent, formed by two safe and environmentally friendly compounds such as sodium acetate trihydrate and urea, to pretreat the skin of yellowfin tuna before the extraction of gelatine. Two different times of pretreatment were tested, and the subsequent extraction was carried out in warm water, resulting in much higher yields of gelatine (0.3 g/g wet fish skin) than previous studies. Additionally, using FT-IR analysis and amino acid profiling, it was observed that the pretreatment time did not significantly affect the structure or composition of the gelatine. However, some variation was found in its molecular weight distribution and therefore in its rheological properties: with an increase in the pretreatment time, both the molecular weight and the storage modulus of the gel also increased, as well as the gelation and melting temperatures. This contribution offers a simplified process that reduces environmental impact and provides the opportunity to tailor the final product.

Influence of Liquid Nitrogen Pre-Freezing and Drying Methods on the Collagen Content, Physical Properties, and Flavor of Fish Swim Bladder.

Fish swim bladder (FSB) is a type of traditional nutraceutical, but the lack of high-quality drying methods limits its premium market development. In order to obtain optimal-quality dried FSBs from Chinese longsnout catfish, the effects of liquid nitrogen pre-freezing (LNF) and drying on the physical properties and flavor of FSB were evaluated. Four methods were used for FSB drying, including natural air-drying (ND), hot-air-drying (HD), LNF combined with freeze-drying (LN-FD), and LNF combined with HD (LN-HD). Color, collagen content, rehydration ratio, textural properties, and flavor characteristics (by GC-IMS, E-nose, and E-tongue) were measured to clarify the differences among four dried FSBs. The results showed that ND cannot effectively remove moisture from FSB as the final product showed a stronger sourness in taste. HD led to a decrease in the collagen content and the collapse of the fiber structure in FSB. Compared to HD, LN-HD showed a higher collagen content (0.56 g/g) and a different flavor fingerprint. FSB treated by LN-FD had better physical qualities in terms of an attractive color, a high collagen content (0.79 g/g), low shrinkage, a higher rehydration ratio (2.85), and a soft texture, while also possessing richer characteristic flavors. The application of LN-FD may help the optimization of the nutrition level, rehydration ability, mouthfeel, and flavor of dried FSB.

Improved Composite Hydrogel for Bioengineered Tracheal Graft Demonstrates Effective Early Angiogenesis.

Background/Objectives: Collagen-agarose hydrogel blends currently used in tracheal graft bioengineering contain relatively high concentrations of collagen to withstand mechanical stresses associated with native trachea function (e.g., breathing). Unfortunately, the high collagen content restricts effective cell infiltration into the hydrogel. In this study, we created an improved hydrogel blend with lower concentrations of collagen (<5 mg/mL) and characterized its capacity for fibroblast invasion and angiogenesis. Methods: Four collagen-agarose hydrogel blends were created: 1 mg/mL type 1 collagen (T1C) and 0.25% agarose, 1 mg/mL T1C and 0.125% agarose, 2 mg/mL T1C and 0.25% agarose, and 2 mg/mL T1C and 0.125% agarose. The hydrogel surface was seeded with fibroblasts, while both endothelial cells and fibroblasts (3:1 ratio) were mixed within the hydrogel matrix. We assessed early angiogenesis by observing fibroblast migration and endothelial cell morphology (elongation and branching) at 7 days. In addition, we performed immunostaining for alpha-smooth muscle actin (aSMA) and explored the gene expression of various angiogenic markers (including vascular endothelial growth factor; VEGF). Results: Gels with lower agarose concentrations (0.125%) with 1 or 2 mg/mL T1C were more effective in allowing early attachment and migration of surface-applied fibroblasts compared to gels with higher (0.25%) agarose concentrations. The low-agarose gels also allowed cells to quickly adopt a spread morphology and self-assemble into elongated structures indicative of early angiogenesis, while demonstrating positive immunostaining for aSMA and increased gene expression of VEGF by day 7. Conclusions: Hydrogel blends with collagen and low agarose concentrations may be effective in allowing early cellular infiltration and angiogenesis, making such gels a suitable cell substrate for use in the development of composite bioengineered tracheal grafts. The collagen-agarose hydrogel blend is meant to be cast around a three-dimensional (3D) printed polycaprolactone support structure and wrapped in porcine small intestine submucosa ECM to create an off-the-shelf bioengineered tracheal implant.

Super‐Resolution Imaging in Collagen‐Abundant Thick Tissues

Expansion microscopy (ExM) has gained increasing popularity for 3D ultrastructural imaging of cultured cells and tissue slices at nanoscale resolution using conventional microscopes via physical expansion of biological tissues. However, its application to collagen‐abundant thick tissues is still challenging. Herein, a new method, collagen ExM (ColExM), optimized for expanding tissues containing more than 70% collagen, is demonstrated. ColExM succeeds in 4.5‐fold linear expansion with minimal structural distortion of corneal and skin tissues. It is compatible with immunostaining, allowing super‐resolution visualization of 3D neural structures innervating hair follicles, corneas, and pancreatic tumors with high stromal collagen content. The method succeeds in identifying individual mitochondria and previously unrecognized dendritic spinelike structures of corneal nerves. It also enables fine mapping of structural rearrangement of tight junctions and actin cytoskeletons. Therefore, ColExM can facilitate the exploration of 3D nanoscale structures in collagen‐rich tissues.

Species authentication and conservation challenges in Chinese fish maw market using Mini-DNA barcoding

Fish maws, derived from the swim bladders of fish, are valued for their high collagen content and nutritional benefits, leading to significant market demand, especially in Asia. This study investigates the species authenticity of fish maw products using mini-DNA barcoding technology to address issues of mislabeling and substitution. Out of 350 samples, 347 were successfully sequenced, revealing a high mislabeling rate of 51.01% among identified species. Species such as Diodon liturosus and Diodon hystrix were found, posing significant health risks due to the presence of tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin. The study also highlights the conservation implications of this market, with endangered species like Totoaba macdonaldi being illicitly traded. These findings underscore the urgent need for accurate species identification, stringent labeling regulations, and enhanced fishery management to protect endangered species and ensure consumer safety. This research advocates for robust international cooperation and reporting to combat illegal fishing and trade, promoting the sustainable development of fish populations and marine ecosystem health.

Abstract 2040: Rapamycin Extends Life Of Matrix Gla Protein Knockout Mice Independent Of Vascular Calcification Content.

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is characterized by the narrowing and blockage of the vessels in lower extremities. While atherosclerosis has been the assumed culprit of PAD recent data now shows that medial arterial calcification (MAC) is the cause of below-the knee ischemia. MAC promotes thrombosis via inward remodeling, reduced elasticity, and arterial stiffness. The mechanisms driving MAC pathogenesis are unclear. Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) is an inhibitor of vascular calcification and present in arterial vessel walls. MGP -/- mice exhibit extensive MAC throughout their vasculature and die within 5-7 weeks due to aortic rupture or heart failure. The drug rapamycin functions as an inhibitor of cell proliferation and an activator of autophagy. Hypothesis: That rapamycin reduces MAC in MGP -/- mice via inhibiting inward remodeling and activating autophagy. Methods: MGP +/+ and MGP -/- mice treated with vehicle or rapamycin (5mg/kg, 3x weekly) starting at 10 days old for 2 weeks. Calcification was quantified via micro-computed tomography (uCT). Collagen structure and elastin quality were assessed histological staining. Markers of proliferation (Ki-67), cell death (Caspase 3), autophagy (LC3), and calcification (Runx2) were quantified via immunofluorescence staining. Western blot was used to assess autophagy flux and proliferation in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) isolated from MGP +/+ and MGP -/- mice. Results: While rapamycin treatment doubled the life-expectancy of MGP -/- mice, the calcification content was unchanged compared to the vehicle. However, rapamycin caused a significant decline in mineral density. Higher collagen content and improved elastin structure were observed in MGP -/- treated with rapamycin compared to vehicle. Runx2 and Ki-67 were elevated in MGP -/- mice compared to MGP +/+ , but there was no difference in response to rapamycin treatment. No difference was observed in caspase 3 levels. Under rapamycin treatment, MGP -/- SMCs exhibited higher autophagy flux than MGP +/+ SMCs. Conclusion: While rapamycin did not reduce MAC, our data suggest that rapamycin potentially preserves the integrity of the aortic vessel wall by inducing autophagy, which requires further investigation.

Unveiling intra-skeletal variability in mature and immature human skeletal remains via ATR-FTIR spectroscopy

Molecular characteristics of skeletal remains were studied utilizing ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, focusing on comparisons between mature adult and immature non-adult skeletal elements. To cover the intra-skeletal variability, different types of bones were analysed. The objective was to identify significant differences between various skeletal elements of adults and non-adults. Additionally, the correlation between observed differences and DNA preservation was investigated. Despite exposure to taphonomic factors, findings indicate minimal diagenetic changes or a well-balanced alteration in mineral and collagen within bones. The identified differences primarily reflect functional and structural differences among various skeletal elements. Significant differences between adults and non-adults, or lack of it, is attributed to different paths of bone maturation from childhood to adulthood. High DNA preservation in non-adult petrous bones was attributed to the interplay between DNA and carbonates, both occupying hydroxyl sites in the lattice. Conversely, lower DNA content in other bones, especially non-adult bones, was correlated with high relative concentrations of collagen, in which DNA is less stable and more prone to degradation. This study highlights the importance of skeletal variation (inter, intra, developmental stage) when assessing the preservation state of the remains and choosing samples for further analyses such as DNA. For the first time, differences between mature adult and immature non-adult bones are included.

COLLAGEN-CONTAINING CONCENTRATE IN THE PRODUCTION OF DAIRY PRODUCTS SPORTS NUTRITION PRODUCTS

The article substantiates the relevance of the use of collagen-containing concentrate in the production of cottage cheese products for sports nutrition. The inclusion of cottage cheese products with a high content of collagen in the diet of athletes helps to strengthen the cartilage tissue of joints, improve the restoration of connective tissue of the ligamentous apparatus and reduce the pain threshold by increasing collagen production. Based on the study of the chemical composition of secondary products of the poultry processing industry, such chicken parts as skin, bone tissue and paws were selected to obtain a collagen-containing concentrate. A method for producing a dry collagen-containing concentrate has been developed. To obtain a collagen-containing concentrate, a method based on an enzymatic process using the papain enzyme for the hydrolysis of raw materials was chosen. This method allows you to preserve the biological value of collagen due to the gentle processing of raw materials. As a result of experimental studies, it was found that the collagen-containing concentrate contains polyunsaturated omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids with antioxidant properties. The result of the study of nutritional and biological value confirms the validity of the use of collagen-containing concentrate in the production of cottage cheese product for sports nutrition. A curd product enriched with collagen can be intended not only for athletes, but also for people who play sports for recreational purposes.

Label-free quantification of imaging features in the extracellular matrix of left and right-sided colon cancer tissues

The molecular pathogenesis of colorectal cancer is known to differ between the right and left side of the colon. Several previous studies have focussed on the differences in clinicopathological features, proteomic and genetic biomarkers, the composition of gut microbiota, response to therapy, and the characteristics of the tumour microenvironment. However, the morphology and density of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM) have not been studied intensively. In this study, we employed 2-photon laser scanning microscopy (2PLSM) to visualise the intrinsic second-harmonic generation (SHG) signal emitted by collagen fibres in the heterogeneous ECM of human colon tumour tissues. Through texture analysis of the SHG signal, we quantitatively distinguished the imaging features generated by structural differences of collagen fibres in healthy colon and cancers and found marked differences. The fibres inside of tumours exhibited a loss of organisation, particularly pronounced in right-sided colon cancer (RSCC), where the chaotic regions were significantly increased. In addition, a higher collagen content was found in left-sided colon cancer (LSCC). In future, this might aid in subclassification and therapeutic decisions or even in designing new therapy regimens by taking into account the differences between collagen fibres features between colon tumours located at different sides.

Two-Photon Microscopy for the Study of Tendons.

Two-photon microscopy has emerged as a potent tool for evaluating deep tissue cells and characterizing the alignment of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in various biological systems. This technique relies on nonlinear light-matter interactions to detect two distinct signals: the second harmonic generated (SHG) diffusion signal, which facilitates the visualization of collagen fibers and their orientation, and the near-infrared excitation signal for imaging ultraviolet excited autofluorescence. SHG imaging proves especially effective in visualizing collagen fibers due to the non-centrosymmetric crystalline structure of fibrillar collagen I. Given that tendons are matrix-rich tissues with a limited number of cells, their high collagen content makes them ideal candidates for analysis using two-photon microscopy. Consequently, two-photon microscopy offers a valuable means to analyze and characterize collagen abnormalities in tendons. Its application extends to studying tendon development, injuries, healing, and aging, enabling the comprehensive characterization of tendon cells and their interactions with the ECM under various conditions using two-photon microscopy tools. This protocol outlines the use of two-photon microscopy in tendon biology and presents an adapted methodology to achieve effective imaging and characterization of tendon cells during development and after injury. The method allows the utilization of thin microscopic sections to create a comprehensive image of the ECM within tendons and the cells that interact with this matrix. Most notably, the article showcases a technique to generate 3D images using two-photon microscopy in animal models.

Potential of Sea Cucumbers as Fuctional Foods

Sea cucumbers have great potential for managing water resources because they have filter feeder properties that can clean water from harmful substances. Apart from that, sea cucumbers also contain active compounds which have properties as functional foods and can help prevent cancer. Samples of sea cucumbers were collected from Karimunjawa, Central Java, and Surabaya. The research included tests for bacteria, chemicals, and heavy metals on dried sea cucumbers, as well as amino acid analysis. Two species of sea cucumbers were identified: Holothuria atra and Stichopus variegates. H. atra had a higher amino acid content and the highest collagen content among all the amino acids (14,600mg.100g-1). Both types of sea cucumber samples contain amino acids that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This is due to their content of saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids, which are beneficial for health. Additionally, S. variegates has been found to have antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The amino acid analysis of S. variegates shows the presence of sulfate and alanine compounds, which are not found in H. atra. Research has shown that sea cucumbers can be consumed as supplements or additional food to support health and prevent various diseases, including cancer. The use of sea cucumbers as functional food ingredients also has the potential to manage water resources sustainably. In conclusion, H. atra and S. varigatus sea cucumbers have great potential for managing water resources for functional food and cancer prevention efforts. Their high content of amino acids and other phytochemical compounds makes them a good choice for development as functional food ingredients.

PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND EVALUATION OF GELLAN GUM/GLYCOL CHITOSAN BASED BAICALEIN HYDROGEL FOR WOUND HEALING

Objective: The present work was emphasized on preparation, characterization and evaluation of baicalein loaded hydrogel to promote healing of wounds. Methods: Baicalein loaded hydrogel was developed using Gellan gum and Glycol chitosan polymers. Prepared hydrogels were characterized for various parameters like Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), swelling property, entrapment efficiency, rheology and drug release. Wound healing study was investigated by using incision dead space wound models. Healing effect was assessed by measurement of tensile strength, collagen content, hydroxyproline content, protein content and antioxidant status. Results: The percent entrapment efficiency of optimized hydrogel found to be 89.78±2.07 which resulted in controlled release of drug 85.03% in 12 h. The significant increased level of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was noticed in dead space wound model. The tensile strength study shows increase in collagen synthesis due to treatment with Baicalein loaded hydrogel. The higher collagen content, better granulation, increase in tensile strength was noticed. Histopathological examination also confirmed higher degree of re-epithelialization and enhanced cutaneous wound repair. Conclusion: In conclusion, biodegradable Baicalein loaded hydrogel might have high potential for wound healing with improved oxidative status and extended release of Baicalein.

Evaluation of Plant-Based Silver Nanoparticles for Antioxidant Activity and Promising Wound-Healing Applications.

The current research focuses on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a polar extract of taro corms and the evaluation of its antioxidant properties and wound-healing applications. Taro corm extract (100 mL) was treated with a 5 mM AgNO3 solution (100 mL) at room temperature for the formation of AgNPs, and a color change was observed. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peaks in their UV-visible spectra appeared at a range of 438-445 nm. Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, dynamic light scattering, and X-ray diffraction were used for the characterization of the taro corms extract-mediated AgNPs (TCE-AgNPs). The synthesized AgNPs were crystalline and spherical, with an average size of 244.9-272.2 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.530 and zeta potential of -18.8 mV, respectively. The antibacterial potential of TCE-AgNPs was tested, and the inhibition zones detected against Cronobacter sakazakii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis were 28, 26, 18, and 13 mm, respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of TCE-AgNPs showed significant radical-scavenging activity compared to the standard used. Collagen content data collected from regenerated tissue and higher collagen content indicated rapid wound healing compared to others, which was seen in a group treated with TCE-AgNP film bandages.

Two-Year Preclinical Evaluation of Long-Term Absorbable Poly-4-hydroxybutyrate Scaffold for Surgical Correction of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Introduction and hypothesisFully absorbable implants may be an alternative to permanent meshes in the correction pf pelvic organ prolapse (POP) as they may reduce adverse events by promoting tissue regeneration and collagen metabolism. This study was aimed at evaluating the long-term host and biomechanical response to a fully absorbable poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) scaffold in comparison with polypropylene (PP) mesh.MethodsPoly-4-hydroxybutyrate scaffold (n = 16) and PP mesh (n = 16) were surgically implanted in the posterior vaginal wall of parous female Dohne Merino sheep. Vaginal explants were evaluated in terms of gross necropsy, host response (immune response, collagen deposition, tissue regeneration), biomechanics, and degradation of P4HB at 12 and 24 months post-implantation.ResultsGross necropsy revealed no infection or fluid collection using P4HB or PP. At 12 months, exposures were observed with both P4HB (3 out of 8) and PP (4 out of 8), whereas at 24 months, exposures were observed only with PP (4 out of 8). The tensile stiffness of the P4HB explants was maintained over time despite complete absorption of P4HB. The collagen amount of the vaginal tissue after P4HB implantation increased over time and was significantly higher than PP at 24 months. P4HB scaffolds exhibited significantly lower myofibroblast differentiation than PP meshes at 24 months.ConclusionsThe P4HB scaffold allowed for gradual load transfer to the vaginal wall and resulted in mechanically self-sufficient tissue. P4HB scaffold had a more favorable host response than PP mesh, with higher collagen content, lower myofibroblastic differentiation, and no exposures at 24 months. P4HB scaffolds have potential as an alternative to permanent implants in treating POP.

Culture system impact on fatty acids and amino acids accumulation in tiger pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes)

Tiger pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes) is considered to be the most nutritionally valuable aquaculture species due to its high protein and collagen content. In this study, the fatty acids and amino acids (AAs) of the muscle and skin of tiger pufferfish reared in an offshore sea cage aquaculture system (OSCS) and a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) were examined to illustrate the possible differences between the two systems. Results showed that the saturated fatty acid (SFA), arachidonic acid, and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of tiger pufferfish reared in the OSCS were significantly higher than those of pufferfish reared in the RAS. Meanwhile, the contents of C14:0, C16:1n-7, C18:1, and C18:2 were significantly higher in the muscle of male pufferfish than in females. The fatty acid content in the skin of tiger pufferfish manifested similar results in the muscle, and pufferfish raised in the OSCS obtained higher values of SFA, PUFA and monounsaturated fatty acid than did pufferfish reared in the RAS. The docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid content in the skin of male pufferfish were significantly higher than those of females reared in the RAS, whereas there was no significant difference between male and female fish reared in the OSCS. Essential amino acid (EAA), non-essential amino acid (NEAA), and flavor amino acid (FAA) content in the muscle and skin of pufferfish reared in the OSCS were significantly higher than those of fish reared in the RAS. However, EAA content in the muscle and skin of pufferfish reared in the two aquaculture systems showed no significant difference. EAA, NEAA, and FAA content in the muscle and skin of male tiger pufferfish were higher than those of female pufferfish reared in the RAS, whereas no significant difference was observed in male and female pufferfish reared in the OSCS. The interaction effects of gender and rearing system on fatty acid and AAs content in the muscle and skin of tiger pufferfish were observed. In conclusion, the accumulation of fatty acids and AAs in OSCS-raised tiger pufferfish was higher than that in RAS-raised fishes, and male tiger pufferfish had a significant advantage. These findings provide the basic data and will be helpful in developing new strategies for enhancing the flesh quality of tiger pufferfish through the combined land-sea (RAS-OSCS) relay model in captivity.

Tilapia-Derived Granular Hydrogel as a 3D Scaffold Promoting Rapid Wound Healing.

The skin, a crucial organ that protects the body, is vulnerable to external damage. Traditional tissue regeneration methods, including bulk hydrogels, aim to facilitate wound healing by interacting with host cells and providing a conducive environment. However, the nanoscale porosity of conventional hydrogels limits cell penetration and tissue regeneration. To overcome this, hydrogels composed of microgels have emerged as promising alternatives. In this study, we propose a granular hydrogel using decellularized tilapia skin. The tilapia skin-based microgels are cost-effective, immune-friendly, and have a high collagen content. Microgels based on the decellularized extracellular matrix of tilapia were successfully fabricated by using microfluidics. Through the assembly of these microgels using adhesive hyaluronic acid-catechol, the resulting 3D granular hydrogel scaffold facilitated enhanced cell growth, accelerated cell differentiation, and successful healing of full-thickness wounds in a mouse model. This study reveals the potential of tilapia skin-based granular hydrogel assembly in wound healing, overcoming conventional hydrogel limits.

The Added Value of a Collagenated Thermosensitive Bone Substitute as a Scaffold for Bone Regeneration.

A pre-hydrated thermosensitive collagenated biomaterial which sets at body temperature and maintains the space of the missing alveolar bone volume, OsteoBiol GTO® (GTO), has been released as a bone substitute. This study was designed to check its angiogenic and osteogenic potentials compared to OsteoBiol Gen-Os® (Gen-Os) and Geistlich Bio-Oss® (Bio-Oss). Samples of materials were incubated in culture media to obtain the extracts. Collagen release was measured in the extracts, which were used to investigate human periodontal ligament (hPDL) cell proliferation (MTT), colonization (Scratch assays) and growth factor release (ELISA). The effects on endothelial cell proliferation (MTT) and organization (Matrigel® assays) were also studied. Finally, endothelial and mesenchymal Stem Cell (hMSC) recruitment (Boyden Chambers) were investigated, and hMSC Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity was measured. A higher collagen concentration was found in GTO extract, which led to significantly higher hPDL cell proliferation/colonization. All materials increased VEGF/FGF-2 growth factor secretion, endothelial cell recruitment, proliferation, and organization, but the increase was highest with GTO. All materials increased hMSC recruitment and ALP activity. However, the increase was highest with collagenated GTO and Gen-Os, which enhanced C5a and BMP-2 secretion. Overall, GTO has higher angiogenic/osteogenic potentials than the collagenated Gen-Os and the anorganic Bio-Oss. It provides a suitable scaffold for endothelial and mesenchymal stem cell recruitment, which represent essential bone regeneration requirements.

Adaptive divergence of seasonal heart plasticity between Canadian and Spanish pumpkinseed sunfish populations

AbstractLaboratory experiments suggest that reversible changes in the heart ventricle phenotype of fish accompany acclimation to temperature change to maintain cardiac function, but related work in fish living in natural conditions is scant. We investigated seasonal variation in heart ventricular mass and collagen content in pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus) living in outdoor ponds where they experienced high seasonality conditions. Additionally, we compared populations adapted to high and low seasonality to evaluate potential divergence in seasonal heart plasticity. Heart ventricular mass decreased in the summer compared to colder seasons only in populations adapted to high seasonality. The absence of seasonal variation in ventricular mass in sunfish adapted to low seasonality was not due to changes in foraging activity, suggesting a loss of ventricle size plasticity due to either costs of plasticity or relaxed selection. Seasonal variation in ventricle collagen content also occurred, with the highest collagen content in summer regardless of population adaptation to high or low seasonality. Only the proportion of thick collagen fibres changed across seasons. We conclude that natural seasonal cues induce plastic responses in some functional heart traits and propose that these responses can rapidly diverge among populations under different seasonal regimes.