Nutrition Solutions Research Articles

Nicotinamide and pyridoxine stimulate muscle stem cell expansion and enhance regenerative capacity during aging.

Skeletal muscle relies on resident muscle stem cells (MuSCs) for growth and repair. Aging and muscle diseases impair MuSC function, leading to stem cell exhaustion and regenerative decline that contribute to the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. In the absence of clinically available nutritional solutions specifically targeting MuSCs, we used a human myogenic progenitor (hMP) high-content imaging screen of natural molecules from food to identify nicotinamide (NAM) and pyridoxine (PN) as bioactive nutrients that stimulate MuSCs and have history of safe human use. NAM and PN synergize via CK1-mediated cytoplasmic β-catenin activation and AKT signaling to promote amplification and differentiation of MuSCs. Oral treatment with a combination of NAM/PN accelerates muscle regeneration in vivo by stimulating MuSCs, increases muscle strength during recovery, and overcomes MuSC dysfunction and regenerative failure during aging. Levels of NAM and bioactive PN spontaneously decline during aging in model organisms and inter-independently associate with muscle mass and walking speed in a human cohort of 186 aged people. Collectively, our results establish NAM/PN as a new nutritional intervention that stimulates MuSCs, enhances muscle regeneration, and alleviates age-related muscle decline with a direct opportunity for clinical translation.

Photosynthetic abilities and essential oil content of hydroponic and soil <i>Thuja occidentalis</i>

Background: Thuja occidentalis is used in folk medicine to treat several diseases, like bronchial catarrh, and rheumatism. It exhibits antimicrobial properties, and many people today incorporate Thuja occidentalis leaves into herbal tea blends for their healing potential. Brewing tea involves extracting chlorophylls, carotenoids, and essential oils from the plant, which may enhance the tea's therapeutic benefits. Objective: The aim of the study was to estimate the content of chlorophyll a and b, carotenoids, and essential oils in the leaves of Thuja occidentalis grown in Ararat Valley under hydroponic and soil conditions and compare the herbal properties of this plant depending on the growth conditions. Methods: Plants of Thuja occidentalis were grown under soil and hydroponic conditions. The hydroponic substrates used red and black slags. Hydroponic plants were nourished with the nutrition solution offered by G. Davtyan. The content of chlorophyll a and b, and carotenoids were estimated spectrophotometrically in an alcohol solution of leaves. The essential oil of plant leaves was extracted by hydrodistillation. Results: In our study, the content of chlorophyll a and b and carotenoids increased in all studied plants from May to July. The highest content of them was recorded in soil plants (chlorophyll a – 7.2-8.8 μg/ml, chlorophyll b – 2.5-3.2 μg/ml and carotenoids – 1.8-2.2 μg/ml). Plants grown in red slag showed slightly higher levels of these components compared with plants grown in black slag, especially in May. The content of essential oil was higher in hydroponic plants (0.5-0.52%), compared with the soil plants (0.3%). Conclusion: Our study showed that the content of chlorophyll a and b and carotenoids in leaves of Thuja occidentalis changes depending on the studied month and soil plants are inferior to the hydroponic plants in essential oil content. All this supports the idea that the healing abilities and properties of Thuja occidentalis leave depend on the harvesting time and growth condition. Keywords: chlorophyll a and b, carotenoids, essential oil, Ararat Valley, hydroponics

Development of Coriander Microgreens as a Function of the Ionic Strength of the Nutritional Solution and Seed Coating

Development of Coriander Microgreens as a Function of the Ionic Strength of the Nutritional Solution and Seed Coating

Innovative 3D printed multigrain rice and silver carp surimi diets: Rheological, textural, and nutritional solutions for the elderly with dysphagia

Owing to the dysfunction of chewing and swallowing, the elderly often face inadequate food intake, which can lead to severe malnutrition. It is particularly important to ensure that they have access to sufficient and nutritionally balanced diets. This study aimed to design a nutrient-rich dietary compound for the elderly, utilizing rice, black rice, oatmeal rice and silver carp surimi, focusing on a balance of carbohydrates and proteins. The effects of different water-to-grain ratios (2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 times, w/w) on the rheological properties, textural properties, microstructure and sensory evaluation of nutritional compound diets were investigated. Additionally, swallowing grades were classified according to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). Rheological tests showed that the apparent viscosity, storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″) of the nutrient compound diets decreased as the water-to-grain ratio increased, which was further explained by textural and micro-structural analyses. Three-stage recovery experiments showed that the recovery rate of the compound with a 2.0:1 water-to-grain ratio (Ink-A) was the lowest, at 61.31 ± 1.79%. The recovery rate significantly increased (p < 0.05) with higher water addition. According to the IDDSI framework, compounds with water-to-grain ratios of 3.0:1 (Ink-C) and 3.5:1 (Ink-D) were classified as "potential transitional" foods with their texture and taste aligning more closely with consumer expectations, and 3D printing shows that 3.0:1 (Ink-C) has adequate supporting capacity.

NUTRIFLEX

The NUTRIFLEX project is a comprehensive AI-powered application designed to provide personalized nutrition and health management solutions. The goal of the project is to assist individuals in optimizing their diet based on their unique biological and emotional needs, including gut health, mood, and overall well-being. By combining artificial intelligence (AI) and user input, NUTRIFLEX offers tailored meal plans, calorie predictions, mood-enhancing food recommendations, and a gamified approach to motivate users to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The problem addressed by NUTRIFLEX is the growing challenge people face in maintaining a balanced and healthy diet. Modern lifestyles, characterized by fast-paced routines and unhealthy food choices, contribute to poor physical and mental health. Many individuals struggle to find the right balance between their nutritional intake and their health goals, whether it's weight loss, muscle gain, or general wellness. Furthermore, gut health, which plays a critical role in overall health, is often neglected in conventional meal planning applications. Mood fluctuations also significantly impact people's food choices, leading to stress eating or energy dips. NUTRIFLEX solves these problems by offering a holistic, AI-driven solution that adapts to users' unique needs. By using machine learning models, NUTRIFLEX predicts the calorie content of meals and creates personalized meal plans based on user-specific data such as Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and Total Energy Expenditure (TEE). The application also provides mood-based meal suggestions, helping users manage their emotional state through food choices that boost energy, focus, and relaxation. One of the most innovative features of NUTRIFLEX is its gut health functionality. By allowing users to input microbiome data, the app generates personalized meal recommendations designed to improve gut health, which in turn enhances overall physical and mental well-being. This focus on gut health distinguishes NUTRIFLEX from traditional meal planners. In addition, NUTRIFLEX integrates gamification to keep users engaged and motivated. Users can set health goals, track their progress, and earn rewards, making the health journey enjoyable and sustainable.

7465 Impact Of Geography And Insurance On Healthcare Utilization Preferences Of Individuals With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia In The United States

Abstract Disclosure: P.N. Surampudi: Research Investigator; Self; Spruce Biosciences. A.H. Hamrahian: Consulting Fee; Self; Spruce Biosciences. Research Investigator; Self; Spruce Biosciences. R. Charlton: Employee; Self; Spruce Biosciences. P. Ramtin: Employee; Self; Spruce Biosciences. M.E. Geffner: Consulting Fee; Self; Spruce Biosciences, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Adrenas, Neurocrine Biosciences, Novo Nordisk, Eton, Pfizer, Inc., Nutritional Growth Solutions, Nutritional Growth Solutions. Research Investigator; Self; Novo Nordisk. Background: Relative to the general population, patients with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) have increased risks for morbidity and mortality which require specialized management across life stages[1]. Endocrine care, particularly as part of multi-disciplinary teams, can help mitigate risks of developing adrenal crises as well as the impact of glucocorticoid under- or overexposure, including adrenal insufficiency; cardiometabolic risk associated with insulin resistance and excess weight gain; fertility issues associated with irregular menses and gonadal adrenal rest tumors; diminished quality of life; increased mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance; and increased fracture risk associated with decreased bone mineral density. Study Objectives and Design: We hypothesized that the utilization of endocrine and multi-disciplinary care by patients with CAH in the United States (U.S.) could be adversely affected by non-therapeutic factors related to geographic location and access to health care. In this cross-sectional study, we utilized the Definitive Healthcare database (Nov. 2020-Nov. 2022) to gain insight into these factors in adults with CAH. Study Findings: Analysis of healthcare provider utilization revealed that only ∼30% of U.S. adults with CAH received care from endocrinologists. The rest utilized primary-care providers (PCPs: IM, FP, NP, PA, and Ob-Gyn) to obtain care. A review of insurance coverage of U.S. adults with CAH suggests that ∼70% had access to commercial insurance and over 50% resided in states with the largest populations (California, Texas, New York, Florida, Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois), both factors which should ordinarily increase accessibility of subspecialty endocrine and multi-disciplinary care. Conclusions: In our study, only 30% of U.S. CAH adults received care from an endocrinologist. Limited utilization of specialty care does not appear to be due to either diverse geographical distribution or access to healthcare. The gap in expert care may adversely affect the management of CAH and contribute to associated comorbidities. Increased partnership between PCPs and endocrinologists, and increased awareness and education regarding specialty care among patients with CAH are needed to improve health outcomes and thereby reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality in adults with CAH.

Optical Microscopy as a Tool for Assessing Parenteral Nutrition Solution Stability: A Proof of Concept

Background/Objectives: Parenteral nutrition (PN) is used when enteral feeding is not possible. It is a complex mixture of nutrients that must meet a patient’s needs but can face stability issues, such as lipid emulsion destabilisation and precipitate formation. Stability studies are complex, and the methodologies used are very varied in the literature. In addition, many studies are outdated and use outdated components. This study conducts a stability analysis of PN solutions using optical microscopy. Methods: Samples were prepared according to clinical practice standards and previous studies. We used a counting chamber for optical microscopic observations and different storage conditions (RT, 4 °C 1–14 days). Results: Precipitates larger than 5 µm were found in 8 out of 14 samples after 14 days of storage at room temperature, and none were observed in refrigerated samples. More lipid globules larger than 5 µm were detected in samples stored at room temperature than in those stored in a refrigerator after 14 days. Additionally, the number of large globules generally increased from day 1 to day 14 in most samples. Conclusions: The observed precipitates were probably calcium oxalate crystals, the formation of which is possible in PN but is not expected under the usual storage conditions in a hospital environment. Prolonged storage time and storage at room temperature increases the formation of these precipitates. These findings highlight the importance of using filters during both the preparation and administration of PN to prevent large particles from reaching patients.

Determination of microbial growth in ready-to-hang parenteral nutrition solutions beyond 24 hours: An in-vitro study

Determination of microbial growth in ready-to-hang parenteral nutrition solutions beyond 24 hours: An in-vitro study

PSIV-28 Determination of the extent and rate of nutrient degradation of potato and other byproducts by rumen microorganisms in vitro

Abstract Byproducts in livestock diets have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of food production and the cost of animal feeding. The objective was to evaluate the extent and rate of nutrient degradability of potato and other byproducts by rumen microorganisms in vitro. Byproducts included barley malt sprouts, fries, dry peel, and hopper, which were supplied by Performix Nutrition Solutions (Nampa, ID). Two in vitro incubators (DAISYII, ANKOM Technology) each with four incubation jars were used to evaluate ruminal degradability of dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Each jar contained 1,600 mL buffer solution (ANKOM Technology), 400 mL rumen contents (collected from two ruminally cannulated cows), 14 filter bags (F57, ANKOM Technology) with 0.5 g of ground byproduct, 14 filter bags with 0.5 g of ground corn (standard), and 14 blank bags. Each jar was purged with CO2 and filter bags were incubated at 39°C for 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, and 48 h, then removed, rinsed, dried at 55˚C for 48 h, weighed, and analyzed for DM and NDF. Each byproduct was incubated in 3 jars on two different d (6 replicates). Degradation of DM was separated into fractions A (disappearance at 0 h), C (DM remaining after 48 h) and B (100%-A-C). Rate of degradation for fraction B was the slope of the natural logarithms of the DM disappearance. All byproducts were compared with standard corn grain as the control. Fraction A for DM was not different (P &amp;gt; 0.40) for barley malt sprouts (35.4%) and hopper (33.7%), and less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for dry peel (27.8%) and fries (13.2%) when compared with corn grain (33.4%). Fraction B for DM was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for fries (74.0%), not different (P = 0.44) for hopper (56.1%), and less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for dry peel (43.6%) and sprouts (37.0%) when compared with corn grain (53.9%). Rate of DM degradation for fraction B was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for fries (9.9%/h) and hopper (7.0%/h), and not different (P &amp;gt; 0.16) for dry peel (4.6%/h) and sprouts (3.0%/h) when compared with corn grain (3.8%/h). Fraction C for DM was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for dry peel (28.6%) and sprouts (27.6%), and not different (P = 0.20) for fries (12.9%) and hopper (10.3%) when compared with corn grain (12.7%). The indigestible fraction of NDF after 48 h of incubation was greatest for dry peel (58.5%), intermediate for sprouts (40.1%) and hopper (36.7%), and least for fries (25.4%; P &amp;lt; 0.05). These results demonstrate that the extent and rate of ruminal DM degradability of various potato and other byproducts differ and may be more or less degradable in the rumen compared with corn grain.

Preparation and Preclinical Characterization of a Simple Ester for Dual Exogenous Supply of Lactate and Beta-hydroxybutyrate.

Elevation of the plasma levels of (S)-lactate (Lac) and/or (R)-beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) occurs naturally in response to strenuous exercise and prolonged fasting, respectively, resulting in millimolar concentrations of these two metabolites. It is increasingly appreciated that Lac and BHB have wide-ranging beneficial physiological effects, suggesting that novel nutritional solutions, compatible with high-level and/or sustained consumption, which allow direct control of plasma levels of Lac and BHB, are of strong interest. In this study, we present a molecular hybrid between (S)-lactate and the BHB-precursor (R)-1,3-butanediol in the form of a simple ester referred to as LaKe. We show that LaKe can be readily prepared on the kilogram scale and undergoes rapid hydrolytic conversion under a variety of physiological conditions to release its two constituents. Oral ingestion of LaKe, in rats, resulted in dose-dependent elevation of plasma levels of Lac and BHB triggering expected physiological responses such as reduced lipolysis and elevation of the appetite-suppressing compound N-L-lactoyl-phenylalanine (Lac-Phe).

Role of Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Composition on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Gastrectomy or Colectomy: A Phase III Indian Clinical Trial.

Various types of parenteral nutritional products exist, each with specific formulations designed to meet the diverse nutritional needs of patient's post-abdominal surgery. Here, two different parenteral nutrition (PN) solutions BFLUID and NUTRIFLEX PERI are compared in terms of therapeutic efficacy and safety profile. A prospective, multi-center, randomized, parallel-group, non-inferiority Phase III clinical trial compared two PN solutions namely BFLUID (N = 78) and NUTRIFLEX PERI (N = 72) in 150 patients undergoing gastrectomy or colectomy. Primary endpoints included length of hospital stay while secondary endpoints included assessment and comparison of length of ICU/HDU stay, assessment of incidents of infections and mortality, change in blood levels of vitamin B1, change in nutritional parameters, thrombophlebitis, pain at the injection site, and recording of adverse events (AEs). There was no significant difference in terms of length of hospital stay, length of ICU/HDU stay as well as changes in nutritional parameters from baseline and change in blood levels of vitamin B1 from baseline. Both study groups exhibited comparability in terms of AEs, pain at the injection site, and the incidence of phlebitis. There was no significant difference in the number and severity of adverse events reported in both groups. Additionally, no signs of infection were observed in patients from either group. The trial successfully demonstrated the non-inferiority of BFLUID to NUTRIFLEX PERI. Moreover, the results indicated that PN enriched with high levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), essential amino acids (EAAs), and thiamine is both safe and efficacious for adult patients undergoing gastrectomy or colectomy. Goyal A, Pathak A, BS Madhu, Soni H, Bhatt K, Raju KVVN, et al. Role of Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Composition on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Gastrectomy or Colectomy: A Phase III Indian Clinical Trial. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(9):871-878.

Effect of in Ova Injection with Nano Selenium and Vitamin E on Hatch and Some Blood Biochemical Traits of Broiler Chicks Exposed to Fasting Condition

This investigation in the hatchery operated by Al-Anwar Poultry Group in Babylon governorate utilized 750 fertilized eggs from January 15 to February 6, 2019. The eggs were partitioned into 5 groups, as follows: T1, serving as a negative control treatment without injection, and T2, serving as a positive control therapy injected with distilled water. Each group included 150 fertilized eggs. Treatments T5, T4, and T3 involved administering a nutritional solution comprising Nano- selenium coupled with vitamin E at dosages of 15-30-45 ppm, respectively, via injection. Subsequently, the chicks were isolated from the injected egg treatments, and each treatment was further divided into three repetitions. The chicks were then cultivated experimentally for 48 hours without any food and were just provided with water. The subsequent outcomes were achieved: Treatment T3 showed a statistically significant difference (P ≤0.01) in the relative hatchability percentage. The treatment T2 (P ≤0.01) markedly outperformed the other treatments in terms of embryonic mortality percentage. There was also a significant excelled(P ≤0.05) for the treatment T1 in the concentration of blood cholesterol and during times 0-12-24-48 hours after hatching, a significant excelled (P ≤0.05) for the treatments T2, T1 in the concentration of triglycerides during the times 0-48 hours after hatching, and the treatment T2 excelled during the times 12-24 hours, a significant excelled (P ≤0.05) for the treatment T2 in the concentration of glucose Blood when hatching, and T3 and T1 treatments excelled12 hours, Treatment T2 at time 24 hours, and highly significant (P ≤0.01) for T2 and T1 at 48 hours after hatching, significant difference (P ≤0.05) for T5 in the concentration of GpX, was significant. Treatment T1 surpassed the established concentration of Malonaldehyde within the first 48 hours after hatching.

Identifying Grapevine Rootstocks Tolerant to Copper Excess

The aim of the current study is to identify grapevine rootstocks with the potential to tolerate excessive Cu concentrations. Four grapevine rootstock genotypes were tested: Paulsen 1103, IAC 572, SO4 and Isabel. The plants were cultivated in nutrition solution added to the following treatments: 0.3 µM Cu and 80 µM Cu. Growth, nutrient concentration in tissue and the physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed. Rootstocks showed different growth responses to Cu excess in the solution. SO4, IAC 572 and Isabel markedly reduced growth under Cu excess compared to plants in the control solution, whereas genotype Paulsen 1103 showed a less pronounced effect. The root system of all genotypes presented a Cu increase under a high Cu concentration, as well as higher POD activity and H2O2 concentration than the control. Isabel presented the greatest sensitivity to Cu excess, as shown by leaf wilting and yellowing. Paulsen 1103 rootstock presented smaller changes in the observed parameters in the high Cu concentration solution than in the control solution. Our results indicate that Paulsen 1103 is the most tolerant to Cu excess, whereas Isabel is the most sensitive. There are natural genetic variations in tolerance to this abiotic stress that typically affect grapevine plants.

Sustainable production of nutritional iron-enriched yeast from low-cost bran sources: A valuable feedstock for circular economy

Enhancing iron bioavailability through iron-enriched yeast offers a promising nutritional solution. This study explores the sustainable production of iron-enriched yeast using soybean, corn, and wheat bran hydrolysates as low-cost culture media in submerged fermentation. Culture mediums were supplemented with 15 mg L−1 of Fe+2. Iron-yeast production was successful using starchy hydrolysates due to their rich composition. Soybean bran hydrolysate achieved the highest biomass production (7.9 g L−1 dry cell), corn bran hydrolysate accomplished the largest iron incorporation (3.18 mg of iron/gram of dry cell); while supplemented wheat hydrolysate attained the greatest yield (2.58 ± 0.68 g/g). This research showed high potential on the production of iron-enriched yeast biomass from starchy hydrolysates, and the potential production of health and food products through sustainable production methods.

Financial Feasibility of Service-Based Business

In Indonesia, over 6,300,000 toddlers are affected by stunting. Research indicates that the prevalence of stunting among children of working mothers is 30.6%. Despite the associated health risks, many working mothers prefer formula milk as a substitute for breast milk. Mengasihi, a health technology start-up providing breast milk powdering services for personal use, aims to offer babies a simple and effective nutritional solution. This study investigates the financial feasibility of Mengasihi as an early-stage start-up. It was found that cash flow plays a crucial role in start-up failure, impacting long-term organizational success. A feasibility study assessed Mengasihi's financial viability, analyzing internal and external financial conditions using criteria such as Payback Period, Net Present Value (NPV), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) based on five-year financial projections. The results indicate that the Mengasihi project is financially viable, and an implementation plan was provided as part of the study.

Empirical Study on the Impact of Infusion Media on the Flow Rate of Infusion Pumps

To investigate the impact of different infusion media on the flow rate of infusion pumps. Ten infusion pumps were randomly selected and tested for infusion rates using deionized water, saline solution, glucose solution, and parenteral nutrition solution. The infusion flow rate was set at 30 mL/h, and the testing methodology conformed to the standards for the calibration and quality control of syringe pumps and infusion pumps. For infusion set A, the infusion rate was unaffected by the infusion media, remaining within the acceptable quality control standards. For infusion set B, when infused with deionized water, saline solution, and glucose solution, the infusion errors were within the quality control standards. However, when using parenteral nutrition solution as the infusion medium, the infusion error exceeded the acceptable quality control standards. Both the infusion set and the infusion medium can affect the flow rate of infusion pumps. It is crucial to calibrate the flow rate according to the specific infusion medium to reduce medical risks associated with infusion pumps during clinical use.

Cooling the high temperature nutrition solution to improve growth, yield and water productivity of hydroponic red lettuce (Lactuca sativa L Var Red rapids) in a tropical location

Red lettuce is preferred because of its high nutritional, vitamin, and antioxidant contents. Hydroponic cultivation has been known to successfully improve the quality and productivity of red lettuce. But the efforts to increase the productivity of hydroponic red lettuce face constraints of high temperatures in the tropics. The aim of this study was to compare the growth, yield, and water productivity of red lettuce in three hydroponic systems namely wick, floating raft, and dry systems by controlling the temperature of the nutrient solutions using protected nutrient containers. The experimental design of randomized complete block split plots with the main plots of the nutrient containers which consisted of three levels: Refrigerated container, styrofoam-insulated container, and bare bucket container in which the nutrient solution was delivered to plants in three separated gutters as the cultivation beds, then recirculated back to the corresponding nutrient container. The secondary plot is hydroponic systems including three systems namely wick, floating raft, and dry systems. The blocks were the arrangement of plants according to the flow direction of the nutrient solution, namely upstream, middle and downstream in each gutter. Each experimental unit was represented by 3 plants. Data sets were analyzed by using analysis of variance and followed by LSD multiple comparisons at the 5% level. The results showed that the temperature of the nutrient solution controlled by the three containers had a significant effect on all observed plant parameters. Meanwhile, the hydroponic systems and the blocks had no significant effect. The use of Refrigerated container showed the best performance in improving the growth, yield, and water productivity of the red lettuce.

Ocoxin Oral Solution Triggers DNA Damage and Cell Death in Ovarian Cancer.

Ovarian cancer is the most fatal of all the reproductive cancers within the female population, mainly due to its late diagnosis that limits surgery and medical treatment. Classically, ovarian cancer therapy has included conventional chemotherapy, and other therapeutic approaches are now being used to treat these patients, but the outcomes of the disease are still poor. Therefore, new strategies are needed to improve life expectancy and life quality of ovarian cancer patients. Considering that, we investigated the effect of the nutritional supplement Ocoxin Oral Solution (OOS) in ovarian cancer models. OOS contains several nutritional supplements, some of them with demonstrated antitumoral action. In vitro studies showed that OOS inhibited the proliferation of several ovarian cancer cell lines, especially of those representative of the endometrioid subtype, in a time- and dose-dependent manner. A fast cell death induction after OOS treatment was observed, and when the molecular mechanisms leading to this effect were investigated, an activation of the DNA damage checkpoint was detected, as shown by activation (phosphorylation) of CHK1 and CHK2 kinases that was followed by the phosphorylation of the target protein histone H2AX. When tested in animal models of ovarian cancer, OOS reduced tumor growth without any observed secondary effects. Moreover, such reduction in tumor proliferation was caused by the induction of DNA damage as corroborated by the in vivo phosphorylation of CHK2 and Histone H2AX. Finally, OOS potentiated the action of carboplatin or olaparib, the standard of care treatments used in ovarian clinics, opening the possibility of including OOS in combination with those standard of care agents in patients with ovarian cancer.

Unlocking the Potential of Insect-Based Proteins: Sustainable Solutions for Global Food Security and Nutrition.

The present review highlights the potential of insect-based proteins to address the growing need for sustainable and secure food systems. The key findings suggest that edible insects offer a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional livestock, requiring significantly less land, water, and feed while emitting lower levels of greenhouse gases. Insect farming can also reduce waste and recycle nutrients, supporting circular economy models. Nutritionally, insects provide high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and beneficial fats, making them valuable to human diets. Despite these benefits, this review emphasizes the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to ensure food safety, manage potential allergenicity, and mitigate contamination risks from pathogens and environmental toxins. Additionally, developing innovative processing technologies can enhance the palatability and marketability of insect-based products, promoting consumer acceptance. This review concludes that with appropriate regulatory support and technological advancements, insect-based proteins have the potential to significantly contribute to global food security and sustainability efforts.

Combination of Hydrolysable Tannins and Zinc Oxide on Enterocyte Functionality: In Vitro Insights.

The management of gastrointestinal disease in animals represents a significant challenge in veterinary and zootechnic practice. Traditionally, acute symptoms have been treated with antibiotics and high doses of zinc oxide (ZnO). However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for microbial resistance and ecological detriment due to the excessive application of this compound. These concerns highlight the urgency of minimizing the use of ZnO and exploring sustainable nutritional solutions. Hydrolysable tannins (HTs), which are known for their role in traditional medicine for acute gastrointestinal issues, have emerged as a promising alternative. This study examined the combined effect of food-grade HTs and subtherapeutic ZnO concentration on relevant biological functions of Caco-2 cells, a widely used model of the intestinal epithelial barrier. We found that, when used together, ZnO and HTs (ZnO/HTs) enhanced tissue repair and improved epithelial barrier function, normalizing the expression and functional organization of tight junction proteins. Finally, the ZnO/HTs combination strengthened enterocytes' defense against oxidative stress induced by inflammation stimuli. In conclusion, combining ZnO and HTs may offer a suitable and practical approach for decreasing ZnO levels in veterinary nutritional applications.