Levels Of Essential Amino Acids Research Articles

Evaluation and comparison of protein composition and quality in half-sib families of opaque-2 maize (Zea mays L.) from Argentina

<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%;" align="justify"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">El objetivo fue caracterizar y comparar la composición proteica de familias de medios hermanos de maíz </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>opaco-2</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> de Argentina mediante prueba de progenie. Se determinó dureza del grano, contenido de fracciones proteicas, aminoácidos y digestibilidad </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>in vitro</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> de proteína (PD) de la harina integral. Se usaron genotipos no-opacos como control. El contenido total de proteína de los genotipos </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>o2</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> correlacionó negativamente con la dureza del grano (</span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>r</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">=-42 en 2012 y </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>r</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">=-0.32 en 2013) y no mostró diferencias significativas respecto a los genotipos no-opacos; sin embargo, los genotipos </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>o2</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> mostraron mayor PD, menor proporción de zeína y mayor de albúminas, globulinas y glutelinas. Las progenies </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>o2</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> mostraron mayor contenido de lisina, isoleucina y treonina en comparación con el maíz blanco. El contenido de lisina, el de fracciones proteicas y la PD mostraron una mayor contribución de la varianza genética, a pesar de la alta contribución de la varianza del año observada en el contenido total de proteínas. </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Las diferencias mostradas por los perfiles de proteínas de las progenies permitirán identificar genotipos </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><em>o2</em></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> con menor nivel de zeína y mayor contenido de lisina. Esto permitirá continuar con la selección y la mejora genética para obtener variedades con calidad proteica superior. </span></span></span></p>

Maternal nutrient intake and fetal gastroschisis: A case-control study.

Fetal gastroschisis is a paraumbilical abdominal wall defect with herniation of the abdominal organs. This multifactorial malformation occurs in young pregnant women, and the underlying cause of the disease remains unknown; however, nutritional factors may play a role in its development. This case-control study explored the association of maternal nutrient intake with the occurrence of gastroschisis. The gastroschisis group (GG) comprised 57 pregnant women with fetuses with gastroschisis, and the control group (CG) comprised 114 pregnant women with normal fetuses matched for maternal age, gestational age, and preconception body mass index classification. Nutritional assessments related to the preconception period were obtained using the food consumption frequency questionnaire, and nutrient intakes were calculated using nutrition programs. The median daily calorie intake was higher (2,382.43 vs. 2,198.81; p = .041) in the GG than in the CG. The median intake of methionine (763.89 vs. 906.34; p = .036) and threonine (1,248.34 vs. 1,437.01; p = .018) was lower in the GG than in the CG. Pregnant women with fetuses with gastroschisis have a diet characterized by higher calorie intake and lower levels of essential amino acids (methionine and threonine) during the preconception period than pregnant women with normal fetuses.

Dysfunctional LAT2 Amino Acid Transporter Is Associated With Cataract in Mouse and Humans.

Cataract, the loss of ocular lens transparency, accounts for ∼50% of worldwide blindness and has been associated with water and solute transport dysfunction across lens cellular barriers. We show that neutral amino acid antiporter LAT2 (Slc7a8) and uniporter TAT1 (Slc16a10) are expressed on mouse ciliary epithelium and LAT2 also in lens epithelium. Correspondingly, deletion of LAT2 induced a dramatic decrease in lens essential amino acid levels that was modulated by TAT1 defect. Interestingly, the absence of LAT2 led to increased incidence of cataract in mice, in particular in older females, and a synergistic effect was observed with simultaneous lack of TAT1. Screening SLC7A8 in patients diagnosed with congenital or age-related cataract yielded one homozygous single nucleotide deletion segregating in a family with congenital cataract. Expressed in HeLa cells, this LAT2 mutation did not support amino acid uptake. Heterozygous LAT2 variants were also found in patients with cataract some of which showed a reduced transport function when expressed in HeLa cells. Whether heterozygous LAT2 variants may contribute to the pathology of cataract needs to be further investigated. Overall, our results suggest that defects of amino acid transporter LAT2 are implicated in cataract formation, a situation that may be aggravated by TAT1 defects.

Getting the Dried Whey Protein Concentrate and Its Effect on Pan Bread Evaluation

The aim of study is to obtain dried whey protein concentrate and to study the functional properties and physical, chemical properties. It was incorporated into pan bread made using different levels of dried whey protein concentrate. Pan bread samples were analyzed for sensory, physical and chemical attributes. The results revealed that sweet cheese whey contain 93.14% water, 4.85% lactose, 0.7% soluble protein, 0.11% fat and 0.9% ash contents. While, the produced dried whey protein concentrate contained 7.04% water 92.96% total solids, 10.47% lactose, 66.87% protein, 3.65% fat and 5.63% ash contents and contained higher levels of essential amino acids especially lysine, threonine and valine. Functional properties of dried whey protein concentrate were 4.8%, 2.2%, 50%, 80% and 0.52 g/cm3 for water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity, foam capacity, foam stability and bulk density, respectively. Sensory, physical and chemical evaluation revealed that pan bread made using 20% dried whey protein concentrate had the best quality compared with control and other levels of dried whey protein concentrate.

Effectiveness of whey protein supplements on the serum levels of amino acid, creatinine kinase and myoglobin of athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundConsuming whey protein supplements, along with physiotherapy and psychotherapy, have been recognised in sports performance. Whey protein supplements (WPS) is one of the commonly used supplements as ergogenic aids for athletes to enhance their muscle performance and recovery during sport-related injuries. The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate the effectiveness of WPS over the blood biochemistry mainly amino acids, creatinine kinase and myoglobin which influence performance and recovery among athletes.MethodA comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify randomised control trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs that investigated the effectiveness of WPS on amino acids, creatinine kinase and myoglobin among athletes. Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions tool (ROBINS-I) and Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment tool were used to rule out the quality of studies. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model with STATA version 14.2. The weighted mean difference was used to estimate the effectiveness of WPS against other supplements.ResultsA total of 333,257 research articles were identified; of these, 15 records were included to proceed with the analysis. Meta-analysis has shown that WPS has significantly overall increased the level of essential amino acids level by 624.03 nmol/L (CI = 169.27, 1078.8; I2 = 100%; p = 0.00) and branched-chain amino acids level by 458.57 nmol/L (CI = 179.96, 737.18; I2 = 100%; p = 0.00) compared to the control group (without WPS). Moreover, was observed to decrease myoglobin level by 11.74 ng/ml (CI = − 30.24, 6.76; I2 = 79.6%; p = 0.007) and creatine kinase level by 47.05 U/L (CI = − 129.47, 35.37; I2 = 98.4%; p = 0.000) compared to the control group.ConclusionThe findings revealed that the clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of WPS as a positive ergogenic aid on athletes’ amino acids, creatinine kinase and myoglobin.

Nutritional qualities of normal and precocious adult male Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis)

The nutritional values of edible gonad, hepatopancreas and muscle tissues from normal and precocious adult male Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) were investigated herein. The results showed that the average weight and meat yield (MY) of normal crabs were significantly higher than those of precocious crabs, while the hepatopancreas indexes (HSI) and gonadosomatic indexes (GSI) had no significant differences. Precocious and normal crabs had greater protein and lipid contents, respectively, and the differences were mainly reflected in gonads and hepatopancreas. While assessing the amino acid profiles, both precocious and normal crabs could be high-quality protein sources, particularly the precocious crabs which showed higher levels of essential amino acids. In fatty acid profiling experiments, precocious crabs revealed higher EPA, ∑n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and ∑n-3/∑n-6 ratios than normal crabs; however, DHA and ∑n-6 PUFA contents were considerably lower. Additionally, contents of nutritious minerals K and Ca in precocious crabs were significantly higher than those in normal crabs, while Zn and Fe were significantly lower. In short, our data indicated that precocious Chinese mitten crabs are also a nutritious food, and even in some respects their nutritional value is higher than normal crabs.

The Strong Antioxidant Sheep/Goat Whey Protein Protects Against mTOR Overactivation in Rats: A Mode of Action Mimicking Fasting.

Whey protein, a by-product of the cheese industry, can be putatively used as a functional food due to its beneficial health properties. The main objective of the present study was to assess in vivo the effect of a sheep/goat whey protein on the plasma amino acid profile and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a regulator of skeletal myogenesis. A control group was fed with a standard commercial diet while the experimental group received a standard commercial diet plus sheep/goat whey protein for 28 days. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was conducted to determine plasma amino acid levels while the expression of p70-S6 Kinase 1 (p70-S6K1) in liver and quadriceps muscles was quantified and used as a biomarker of mTOR activity. The results obtained showed a decrease in the levels of essential and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in the experimental group. Furthermore, p70-S6K1 expression was decreased in the liver of rats consumed whey protein. In conclusion, the reduction of amino acid levels and the concomitant inactivation of mTOR imply that whey could potentially act protectively against disorders induced by mTOR overactivation. Intriguingly, this mode of action mimics fasting, an approach with established advantageous health effects.

Properties of bone from Catfish heads and frames.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate methods of producing purified Catfish bone fractions from Catfish frames and heads and determine the composition of the purified bone fraction. Fresh samples of Catfish frames and heads were obtained from a large commercial Catfish processor. Triplicate samples were processed for all treatments. Two methods were developed to remove nonbone tissue from the frames: (a) use of a proteolytic enzyme to digest the nonbone tissues and (b) after boiling the frames, removal of the nonbone tissues with high‐pressure water. The ash, protein, and lipid contents of unprocessed dried frames were 17%, 33%, and 41%, respectively. After the enzymatic or high‐pressure water treatment processes, the frame bone compositions for the two processes were 62% and 54% ash, 35% and 33% protein, and 9% and 2% lipid, respectively. Bone from both processing treatments had a calcium content of 21%–25%, phosphorus content of 10%–11%, and contents of magnesium, manganese, zinc, and nickel were increased. Hydroxyproline content increased from 4% of the amino acids in the untreated bone to 7%–8% for the processed treatments. Tissues were removed from Catfish heads by digestion with a proteolytic enzyme and collection of the bone with a sieve. After the longest digestion period, dried head bone was 51% ash, 38% protein, and 7% lipid. The amino acid profiles showed high levels of hydroxyproline and lower levels of many essential amino acids. With increased enzymatic hydrolysis time, percent calcium and phosphorus increased. Results from this study will be used in the development of new value‐added food and feed ingredients from Catfish bone.

Growth and Immuno-competence of Japanese Quail (White Breasted Line) to Different Dietary Energy and Amino Acid Levels

Objective of this study was to determine the response of growing Japanese quails (White Breasted line-CARI UJJWAL, n=900, 36 groups) to three dietary essential amino acids (EAA) levels viz., 85, 100 and 115% of NRC (NRC, 1994) at three metabolizable energy levels viz., 2700, 2900 and 3100 kcal/kg (3 × 3 factorial design) on their growth and immunity. Each diet was offered to 4 replicates of 25 quails each up to 5 weeks of age. Ratio of lysine to protein and methionine and threonine to lysine, as specified by NRC, remained almost similar in all diets. Linear increase in body weight gain observed with increased EAA levels during 0–3 or 0–5 weeks of age. Feed intake increased linearly with decreased ME (P<0.01) and increased EAA (P<0.01) levels while improved feed conversion ratio was observed in highest energy level. Protein efficiency improved (P<0.01) with decreased EAA and increased ME levels whereas reverse for energy efficiency. Maximum performance index was observed in 3100 kcal/kg and 115% EAA diets. Humoral (SRBC) and cellular (PHA-P) immune response did not differ due to ME, EAA or ME × EAA. Optimum level of dietary ME is 2700 kcal/kg with CP 25.83%, lysine 1.49%, methionine 0.58% and threonine 1.17% on dry matter basis during 0–5 weeks of age for gain. For optimum feed conversion, growing quails required diet with ME 3100 kcal/kg with CP 23.23%, lysine 1.30%, methionine 0.50% and threonine 1.02% for 0–5 weeks of age.

Meat production performance of Japanese quails fed diets with varying energy and essential amino acids levels

Meat production performance of Japanese quails fed diets with varying energy and essential amino acids levels

P.3.13 The essential amino acid levels in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis

P.3.13 The essential amino acid levels in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis

Plasma Levels of Amino Acids in Japanese Men and Their Changes after the Administration of Glucose and Sucrose

Background: It is not known whether plasma amino acids levels are different between young and old men in Japan. No research has been reported about changes in plasma levels of amino acids after the administration of glucose or sucrose to young and aged men. Objective: We want to know whether there are age differences in plasma levels of amino acids and if the administration of glucose or sucrose influences their levels. Results: Old people had lower plasma levels of most of amino acids, especially essential and branched-chain amino acids than young men. Plasma levels of amino acids were measured after the administration of 50 grams of glucose or sucrose to young (18 - 22 years old) and aged (≥50 years old) male adults. Plasma levels of total amino acids decreased after the administration of glucose. Decrease in the total amino acid levels was significant in aged men after the administration of sucrose. A significant decrease in plasma levels of total non-essential amino acids was observed at 120 min after the administration of glucose but not sucrose in both aged and young men. Both glucose and sucrose administrations resulted in a significant decrease in the plasma levels of the total essential amino acid levels and branched amino acids in young and aged men. Conclusion: These results suggest that there are age differences in plasma levels of amino acids. Upon the administration of glucose or sucrose amino acids, particularly essential amino acids, decreased in plasma. These amino acids may be transported from the blood soon after the administration of sugar (glucose or sucrose) to the tissues, such as muscles, possibly due to an increase in the insulin levels.

Light regime and growth phase affect the microalgal production of protein quantity and quality with Dunaliella salina

The microalga Dunaliella salina has been widely studied for carotenogenesis, yet its protein production for human nutrition has rarely been reported. This study unveils the effects of growth phase and light regime on protein and essential amino acid (EAA) levels in D. salina. Cultivation under 24-h continuous light was compared to 12-h/12-h light/dark cycle. The essential amino acid index (EAAI) of D. salina showed accumulating trends up to 1.53 in the stationary phase, surpassing FAO/WHO standard for human nutrition. Light/dark conditions inferred a higher light-usage efficiency, yielding 5–97% higher protein and 18–28% higher EAA mass on light energy throughout the growth, accompanied by 138% faster growth during the light phase of the light/dark cycle, compared to continuous light. The findings revealed D. salina to be especially suitable for high-quality protein production, particularly grown under light/dark conditions, with nitrogen limitation as possible trigger, and harvested in the stationary phase.

Replacement of soy protein with other legumes or algae in turkey breast formulation: Changes in physicochemical and technological properties

Currently, many meat products are made with soy protein in order to improve their nutritional profile. This is an inconvenience for people allergic to soy, and therefore it is necessary to look for alternatives to this protein to improve their quality of life. In this study, changes in the physicochemical and nutritional properties of cooked turkey breast containing various sources of alternative proteins to soy proteins (pea, broad bean, lentil, Spirulina and Chlorella) were evaluated. Samples formulated with algae showed significant (p < 0.05) changes on physical parameters and chemical composition of cooked turkey breast. Color parameters were also affected by protein source, showing the highest L* values in samples prepared with Chlorella and Spirulina protein (56.13). On the other hand, a* values were lower in cooked turkey breasts containing algal proteins (−2.34 Chlorella and −1.08 Spirulina) compared to control (1.66). Regarding textural parameters, the cooked turkey breast samples prepared with Chlorella protein showed the lowest hardness values (16.89 N) compared to those elaborated with soy protein (36.95 N). The replacement of soy protein by the other algae and vegetable protein sources did not change the adhesiveness values, ranging between 0.56 and 0.75 N·s, for samples manufactured with Chlorella and soy protein, respectively. Amino acids profile was improved when complemented with Spirulina protein, presenting the highest levels of essential amino acids (6.20 g/100 g). In addition, the ratio between essential and non-essential amino acids increased (from 0.96 to 1.03 for broad bean and Chlorella, respectively). Hence, this study demonstrates that the inclusion of algae proteins can be considered as an alternative to soy proteins for cooked turkey breast formulations and can be a novel source of proteins for people allergic to soy proteins. Practical applications This study demonstrates that the inclusion of algae proteins can be considered as an alternative to soy proteins for cooked turkey breast formulations and can be a novel source of proteins for people allergic to soy proteins.

High-throughput sequencing of gut microbiota in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed larval and pre-pupae stages of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens)

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) meal is a potential alternative to fishmeal and plant proteins in diets for farmed fish since it can be produced on organic waste substrates, requires little energy and water inputs and contains high levels of essential amino acids. Recent studies have partially replaced fishmeal with black soldier fly meal, however, research on their impact on gut microbiota of fish is limited. In a five week experiment, juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were fed either a reference diet based on fishmeal or three diets with 30% inclusion of black soldier fly meals in the form of pre-pupae, larvae or defatted-larvae. The combined luminal content and mucosa were collected from the distal intestine of three fish per tank with four tanks per diet (n = 12) and 16S rRNA gene amplicons were sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Feeding the insect-based diets increased the alpha-diversity of bacteria and abundance of lactic acid bacteria, which may be due to the addition of dietary chitin. Compared with fishmeal, feeding insects resulted in higher abundance of phyla Firmicutes and Actinobacteria with lower abundance of Proteobacteria. Fish fed the full-fat meals had higher abundance of Corynebacterium that was attributed to its ability to produce lipase and the high content of dietary lipids as a substrate. Bacillaceae was increased in fish fed both larvae diets and unchanged in the pre-pupae diet, which indicated that life-cycle stage of the insect influenced the gut microbiota. Based on these results, we found that feeding black soldier flies increased diversity and altered the composition of gut bacteria of rainbow trout, which were further influenced by life-cycle stage and lipid content of the insect meal.

Low Levels of Branched Chain Amino Acids, Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Micronutrients Are Associated with Low Muscle Mass, Strength and Function in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Sarcopenia, the age-related decrease in muscle mass and function can result in adverse health outcomes and subsequent loss of independence. Inadequate nutrition is an important contributor to the aetiology of sarcopenia, and dietary strategies are studied to prevent or delay this geriatric syndrome. The present study investigated whether there is an association between biochemical nutrient status markers, muscle parameters and sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults. Data from the cross-sectional Maastricht Sarcopenia study (MaSS) were used, in which skeletal muscle index (SMI), 4 meter gait speed, 5 times chair stand and handgrip strength were assessed among older adults (n=227). Sarcopenia was defined following the algorithm of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. Fasted blood samples were analyses on amino acids levels, RBC phospholipid profile, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), α-tocopherol, magnesium and homocysteine were determined in fasted blood levels. Generalized linear modelling and logistic regression were used for data analysis. Lower blood levels of essential amino acids (EAA), total branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and leucine were associated with lower SMI (P<0.001), strength (P<0.001) and longer time to complete the chair stand (P<0.05), whereas no association was found for total amino acids (TAA). Lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 25(OH)D and homocysteine were associated with lower muscle parameter values (P<0.05). No significant associations were found for SFA, MUFA, PUFA, n-3 and n-6 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), α-tocopherol-cholesterol ratio and magnesium. Sarcopenia was more frequent among those with lower levels of leucine, BCAA, EAA, EPA, 25(OH)D and higher levels of homocysteine (P<0.05). Age and BMI were identified as relevant covariates. A robust association was only found for lower gait speed and lower 25(OH)D levels. Compromised muscle parameters are associated with low blood values of specific amino acids, fatty acids, vitamin D and high homocysteine.

The Multiple and Versatile Roles of Aureobasidium pullulans in the Vitivinicultural Sector

The saprophytic yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans has been well documented for over 60 years in the microbiological literature. It is ubiquitous in distribution, being found in a variety of environments (plant surfaces, soil, water, rock surfaces and manmade surfaces), and with a worldwide distribution from cold to warm climates and wet/humid regions to arid ones. Isolates and strains of A. pullulans produce a wide range of natural products well documented in the international literature and which have been regarded as safe for biotechnological and environmental applications. Showing antagonistic activity against plant pathogens (especially post-harvest pathogens) is one of the major applications currently in agriculture of the fungus, with nutrient and space competition, production of volatile organic compounds, and production of hydrolytic enzymes and antimicrobial compounds (antibacterial and antifungal). The fungus also shows a positive role on mycotoxin biocontrol through various modes, with the most striking being that of binding and/or absorption. A. pullulans strains have been reported to produce very useful industrial enzymes, such as β-glucosidase, amylases, cellulases, lipases, proteases, xylanases and mannanases. Pullulan (poly-α-1,6-maltotriose biopolymer) is an A. pullulans trademark product with significant properties and biotechnological applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Poly (β-l-malic acid), or PMA, which is a natural biopolyester, and liamocins, a group of produced heavy oils and siderophores, are among other valuable compounds detected that are of possible biotechnological use. The fungus also shows a potential single-cell protein source capacity with high levels of nucleic acid components and essential amino acids, but this remains to be further explored. Last but not least, the fungus has shown very good biocontrol against aerial plant pathogens. All these properties are of major interest in the vitivinicultural sector and are thoroughly reviewed under this prism, concluding on the importance that A. pullulans may have if used at both vineyard and winery levels. This extensive array of properties provides excellent tools for the viticulturist/farmer as well as for the oenologist to combat problems in the field and create a high-quality wine.

Phytochemical components and amino acid profile of brown seaweed Durvillaea antarctica as affected by air drying temperature.

The effects of different drying temperatures between 40 and 80°C on bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity of edible sub Antarctic brown seaweed, Durvillaea antarctica were studied. Dietary fibre, amino acids profile, pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids), vitamin E, total phenolics and total flavonoids as well as antioxidant activity were determined, beside a measurement of the chromatic coordinates. The brown seaweed D. antarctica had a high content of dietary fibre and was rich in essential amino acids and drying between 40 and 80°C did not influence significantly dietary fibre content nor the level of essential amino acids that remained around 44%. However, a significant degradation of the chlorophyll pigments was observed with the lowest level of the initial chlorophyll content occurring at 60°C (59%). Total carotenoids content was stable during drying between 50 and 70°C. Vitamin E showed no significant loss during drying at any of the assayed temperatures, which could be due to its occurrence within the lipid fraction. Drying at 40°C imparted a darker brown colour to the seaweed, while a lighter brown colour was acquired as drying temperature increased. The greatest loss in total phenolics content occurred at 60°C, while total flavonoids content showed a significant reduction, which declined as drying temperature increased. According to the experimental results, phenolics and flavonoids could be considered as an important source of bioactive compounds with relatively high antioxidant activity. Thus D. antarctica may satisfy the requirements for development of functional foods.

Rheology, acceptability and texture of wheat flour tortillas supplemented with soybean residue.

Dry soybean (Glycine max) residue (SBR) is a byproduct rich in dietary fibre and protein with high levels of essential amino acids. The effects due to the substitution of refined wheat flour with 5% or 10% SBR in dough rheology and hot-press tortilla texture, dimensions, colour, protein and dietary fibre contents were studied. Substitution of 10% SBR improved flour in terms of gluten strength and sedimentation without significantly affecting dough hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and extensibility. The dimensions, colour and sensory acceptance of the supplemented tortillas were not affected by the addition of the SBR. The 10% SBR tortillas contained 1.77 times more insoluble dietary fibre, protein content of 9.3%, in vitro protein digestibility of 84% and protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 52.63%. Results indicated that wheat flour tortillas with 10% SBR an excellent alternative to regular counterparts owing to their higher dietary fibre and protein quantity and quality.

Targeting the Warburg effect via LDHA inhibition engages ATF4 signaling for cancer cell survival.

Nutrient restriction reprograms cellular signaling and metabolic network to shape cancer phenotype. Lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) has a key role in aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect) through regeneration of the electron acceptor NAD+ and is widely regarded as a desirable target for cancer therapeutics. However, the mechanisms of cellular response and adaptation to LDHA inhibition remain largely unknown. Here, we show that LDHA activity supports serine and aspartate biosynthesis. Surprisingly, however, LDHA inhibition fails to impact human melanoma cell proliferation, survival, or tumor growth. Reduced intracellular serine and aspartate following LDHA inhibition engage GCN2-ATF4 signaling to initiate an expansive pro-survival response. This includes the upregulation of glutamine transporter SLC1A5 and glutamine uptake, with concomitant build-up of essential amino acids, and mTORC1 activation, to ameliorate the effects of LDHA inhibition. Tumors with low LDHA expression and melanoma patients acquiring resistance to MAPK signaling inhibitors, which target the Warburg effect, exhibit altered metabolic gene expression reminiscent of the ATF4-mediated survival signaling. ATF4-controlled survival mechanisms conferring synthetic vulnerability to the approaches targeting the Warburg effect offer efficacious therapeutic strategies.