Metabolic Responses Research Articles

Assessing the impact of arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium exposure on glycemic and lipid profile markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

The toxicity of metals presents a significant threat to human health due to the metabolic changes they induce. Thus, it is crucial to understand the impact of exposure to toxic elements on glycemic and lipid profiles. To this end, we developed a systematic review protocol registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023393681), following PRISMA-P guidelines. This review aims to assess environmental exposure to arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead in individuals aged over ten years and elucidate their association with glycemic markers such as fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, as well as lipid parameters including total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Articles published in the MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, LILACS, and Google Scholar databases until March 2024 will be included without language restrictions. The modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale will be employed to assess the quality of the included studies, and the results will be presented through narrative synthesis. If adequate data are available, a meta-analysis will be conducted. This review can help understand the metabolic responses to exposure to toxic elements and the associated health risks.

Distinct metabolic responses to heme in inflammatory human and mouse macrophages – Role of nitric oxide

Activation of inflammation is tightly associated with metabolic reprogramming in macrophages. The iron-containing tetrapyrrole heme can induce pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory effects in murine macrophages, but has been associated with polarization towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype in human macrophages. In the current study, we compared the regulatory responses to heme and the prototypical Toll-like receptor (TLR)4 ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in human and mouse macrophages with a particular focus on alterations of cellular bioenergetics. In human macrophages, bulk RNA-sequencing analysis indicated that heme led to an anti-inflammatory transcriptional profile, whereas LPS induced a classical pro-inflammatory gene response. Co-stimulation of heme with LPS caused opposing regulatory patterns of inflammatory activation and cellular bioenergetics in human and mouse macrophages. Specifically, in LPS-stimulated murine, but not human macrophages, heme led to a marked suppression of oxidative phosphorylation and an up-regulation of glycolysis. The species-specific alterations in cellular bioenergetics and inflammatory responses to heme were critically dependent on the availability of nitric oxide (NO) that is generated in inflammatory mouse, but not human macrophages. Accordingly, studies with an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitor in mouse, and a pharmacological NO donor in human macrophages, reveal that NO is responsible for the opposing effects of heme in these cells. Taken together, the current findings indicate that NO is critical for the immunomodulatory role of heme in macrophages.

A Dangerous Couple: Sequential Effect of Phosphorus Flame-Retardant and Polyurethane Decrease Locomotor Activity in Planarian Girardia tigrina.

Understanding the interplay among organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs), microplastics, and freshwater organisms is crucial for unravelling the dynamics within freshwater environments and foreseeing the potential impacts of organic pollutants and plastic contamination. For that purpose, the present research assessed the exposure impact of 10 mg L-1 flame-retardant aluminium diethylphosphinate (ALPI), 10 μg mg-1liver microplastics polyurethane (PU), and the combination of ALPI and PU on the freshwater planarian Girardia tigrina. The exposure to both ALPI and PU revealed a sequential effect, i.e., a decrease in locomotor activity, while oxidative stress biomarkers (total glutathione, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, lipid peroxidation) and metabolic responses (cholinesterase activity, electron transport system, and lactate dehydrogenase) remained unaffected. Despite this fact, it was possible to observe that the range of physiological responses in exposed organisms varied, in particular in the cases of the electron transport system, cholinesterase activity, glutathione S-transferase, catalase, and levels of total glutathione and proteins, showing that the energetic costs for detoxification and antioxidant capacity might be causing a lesser amount of energy allocated for the planarian activity. By examining the physiological, behavioural, and ecological responses of planarians to these pollutants, insights can be gained into broader ecosystem-level effects and inform strategies for mitigating environmental risks associated with OPFRs and microplastic pollution in freshwater environments.

Characterization of ZmSnRK1 genes and their response to aphid feeding, drought and cold stress

AbstractThe SnRK1 complex in plants regulates metabolism in response to environmental stresses and glucose depletion, for stress adaptation and energy homeostasis. Through phosphorylation of various targets, SnRK1 orchestrates intricate regulatory mechanisms involved in autophagy, nutrient remobilization, and TOR activity inhibition, showcasing its pivotal role in coordinating plant metabolism and stress responses. The present study aimed to identify members of the SnRK1 gene family in the maize genome and characterize them using bioinformatics and expression analyses under aphid feeding, drought, and cold stress. The focus of the study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis towards determining gene diversity of ZmSnRK1 genes, constructing intricate 3D structures, and identifying stress-related cis-elements. Four SnRK1 genes were identified, which were named ZmSnRK1.1, ZmSnRK1.2, ZmSnRK1.3, and ZmSnRK1.4. The SnRK1 proteins were found to have a distribution of conserved motifs; however, the distinction between monocots and dicots in the phylogenetic tree was clearly demonstrated. Analysis of the promoter region revealed that the ZmSnRK1 genes contain stress-related cis-elements. Compared to the control, ZmSnRK1.3 significantly upregulated in response to aphid feeding and cold stress, while ZmSnRK1.2 showed elevated expression under drought conditions. The expression of the other two genes under these treatments was generally unperturbed. The findings of this study are poised to establish a valuable scientific foundation for future research on the roles of the SnRK1 gene family in plants, providing valuable insights for enhancing genetic resilience to stress and optimizing yield traits.

Integrating transcriptomic and proteomic data for a comprehensive molecular perspective on the association between sarcopenia and osteoporosis

BackgroundOsteoporosis and sarcopenia are common age-related conditions characterized by the progressive loss of bone density and muscle mass, respectively. Their co-occurrence, often referred to as osteosarcopenia, presents significant challenges in elderly care due to increased fragility and functional impairment. Existing studies have identified shared pathological mechanisms between these conditions, including inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic dysregulation, but a comprehensive understanding of their molecular interplay remains incomplete. ObjectiveThis study aims to deepen our understanding of the molecular interactions between sarcopenia and osteoporosis through an integrated omics approach, revealing potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers. MethodsEmploying a combination of proteomics and transcriptomics analyses, this study analyzed bone and muscle tissue samples from patients diagnosed with osteoporosis and osteosarcopenia. Techniques included high-throughput sequencing and label-free proteomics, supported by advanced bioinformatics tools for data analysis and functional annotation of genes and proteins. ResultsThe study found marked differences in gene and protein expressions between osteoporosis and osteosarcopenia tissues. Specifically, genes like PDIA5, TUBB1, and CYFIP2 in bone, along with MYH7 and NCAM1 in muscle, exhibited differential expression at both mRNA and protein levels. Pathway analyses revealed the significance of oxidative-reduction balance, cellular metabolism, and immune response in the progression of these conditions. Importantly, the study pinpointed osteoclast differentiation and NF-kappa B signaling pathways as critical in the molecular dynamics of osteosarcopenia, suggesting potential targets for therapy. ConclusionsThis study utilized transcriptomics and proteomics to identify key genes and proteins impacting sarcopenia and osteoporosis, employing advanced network tools to delineate interaction networks and crucial signaling pathways. It highlighted genes like PDIA5 and TUBB1, consistently expressed in both analyses, involved in pathways such as osteoclast differentiation and cytokine interactions. These insights enhance understanding of the molecular interplay in bone and muscle degeneration with aging, suggesting directions for future research into therapeutic interventions and prevention strategies for age-related degenerative diseases.

Genomic landscapes of divergence among island bird populations: Evidence of parallel adaptation but at different loci?

When populations colonise new environments, they may be exposed to novel selection pressures but also suffer from extensive genetic drift due to founder effects, small population sizes and limited interpopulation gene flow. Genomic approaches enable us to study how these factors drive divergence, and disentangle neutral effects from differentiation at specific loci due to selection. Here, we investigate patterns of genetic diversity and divergence using whole-genome resequencing (>22× coverage) in Berthelot's pipit (Anthus berthelotii), a passerine endemic to the islands of three north Atlantic archipelagos. Strong environmental gradients, including in pathogen pressure, across populations in the species range, make it an excellent system in which to explore traits important in adaptation and/or incipient speciation. First, we quantify how genomic divergence accumulates across the speciation continuum, that is, among Berthelot's pipit populations, between sub species across archipelagos, and between Berthelot's pipit and its mainland ancestor, the tawny pipit (Anthus campestris). Across these colonisation timeframes (2.1 million-ca. 8000 years ago), we identify highly differentiated loci within genomic islands of divergence and conclude that the observed distributions align with expectations for non-neutral divergence. Characteristic signatures of selection are identified in loci associated with craniofacial/bone and eye development, metabolism and immune response between population comparisons. Interestingly, we find limited evidence for repeated divergence of the same loci across the colonisation range but do identify different loci putatively associated with the same biological traits in different populations, likely due to parallel adaptation. Incipient speciation across these island populations, in which founder effects and selective pressures are strong, may therefore be repeatedly associated with morphology, metabolism and immune defence.

Impact of chickpea hummus on postprandial blood glucose, insulin and gut hormones in healthy humans combined with mechanistic studies of food structure, rheology and digestion kinetics

Slowing the rate of carbohydrate digestion leads to low postprandial glucose and insulin responses, which are associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. There is increasing evidence that food structure plays a crucial role in influencing the bioaccessibility and digestion kinetics of macronutrients. The aims of this study were to compare the effects of two hummus meals, with different degrees of cell wall integrity, on postprandial metabolic responses in relation to the microstructural and rheological characteristics of the meals. A randomised crossover trial in 15 healthy participants was designed to compare the acute effect of 27 g of starch, provided as hummus made from either intact chickpea cells (ICC) or ruptured chickpea cells (RCC), on postprandial metabolic responses. In vitro starch digestibility, microstructural and rheological experiments were also conducted to evaluate differences between the two chickpea hummus meals. Blood insulin and GIP concentrations were significantly lower (P < 0.02, P < 0.03) after the consumption of the ICC meal than the meal containing RCC. In vitro starch digestion for 90 min was slower in ICC than in RCC. Microscopic examination of hummus samples digested in vitro for 90 min revealed more intact chickpea cells in ICC compared to the RCC sample. Rheological experiments showed that fracture for ICC hummus samples occurred at smaller strains compared to RCC samples. However, the storage modulus for ICC was higher than RCC, which may be explained by the presence of intact cells in ICC. Food structure can affect the rate and extent of starch bioaccessibility and digestion and may explain the difference in the time course of metabolic responses between meals. The rheological properties were measured on the two types of meals before ingestion, showing significant differences that may point to different breakdown mechanisms during subsequent digestion.This trial was registered at clinicaltrial.gov as NCT03424187.

Effects of dietary nitrogen and/or phosphorus reduction on mineral homeostasis and regulatory mechanisms in young goats.

The reduction of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in ruminant feed is desirable due to costs and negative environmental impact. Ruminants are able to utilize N and P through endogenous recycling, particularly in times of scarcity. When N and/or P were reduced, changes in mineral homeostasis associated with modulation of renal calcitriol metabolism occurred. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of dietary N- and/or P-reduction on the regulatory mechanisms of mineral transport in the kidney and its hormonal regulation in young goats. During N-reduction, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) concentrations in blood decreased, accompanied by a lower protein expression of cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily B member 1 (CYP27B1) (p = 0.016). The P-reduced fed goats had low blood phosphate concentrations with simultaneously high Ca and Mg levels. The insulin-like growth factor 1 concentrations decreased significantly with P-reduction. Furthermore, gene expression of CYP27B1 (p < 0.001) and both gene (p = 0.025) and protein (p = 0.016) expression of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 1c isoform in the kidney were also significantly reduced during a P-reduced diet. ERK1/2 activation exhibited a trend toward reduction in P-reduced animals. Interestingly, calcitriol concentrations remained unaffected by either restriction individually, but interacted significantly with N and P (p = 0.014). Additionally, fibroblast growth factor 23 mRNA expression in bone decreased significantly with P-restriction (p < 0.001). These results shed light on the complex metabolic and regulatory responses of mineral transport of young goats to dietary N and P restriction.

Functional characterization of helminth-associated Clostridiales reveals covariates of Treg differentiation

BackgroundParasitic helminths influence the composition of the gut microbiome. However, the microbiomes of individuals living in helminth-endemic regions are understudied. The Orang Asli, an indigenous population in Malaysia with high burdens of the helminth Trichuris trichiura, display microbiotas enriched in Clostridiales, an order of spore-forming obligate anaerobes with immunogenic properties. We previously isolated novel Clostridiales that were enriched in these individuals and found that a subset promoted the Trichuris life cycle. In this study, we aimed to further characterize the functional properties of these bacteria.ResultsClostridiales isolates were profiled for their ability to perform 57 enzymatic reactions and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and hydrogen sulfide, revealing that these bacteria were capable of a range of activities associated with metabolism and host response. Consistent with this finding, monocolonization of mice with individual isolates identified bacteria that were potent inducers of regulatory T-cell (Treg) differentiation in the colon. Comparisons between variables revealed by these studies identified enzymatic properties correlated with Treg induction and Trichuris egg hatching.ConclusionWe identified Clostridiales species that are sufficient to induce high levels of Tregs. We also identified a set of metabolic activities linked with Treg differentiation and Trichuris egg hatching mediated by these newly isolated bacteria. Altogether, this study provides functional insights into the microbiotas of individuals residing in a helminth-endemic region.-EyM7p7tfAvrAjtAePB85JVideo

Surviving a Double-Edged Sword: Response of Horticultural Crops to Multiple Abiotic Stressors.

Climate change-induced weather events, such as extreme temperatures, prolonged drought spells, or flooding, pose an enormous risk to crop productivity. Studies on the implications of multiple stresses may vary from those on a single stress. Usually, these stresses coincide, amplifying the extent of collateral damage and contributing to significant financial losses. The breadth of investigations focusing on the response of horticultural crops to a single abiotic stress is immense. However, the tolerance mechanisms of horticultural crops to multiple abiotic stresses remain poorly understood. In this review, we described the most prevalent types of abiotic stresses that occur simultaneously and discussed them in in-depth detail regarding the physiological and molecular responses of horticultural crops. In particular, we discussed the transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and metabolic responses of horticultural crops to multiple abiotic stresses. Strategies to breed multi-stress-resilient lines have been presented. Our manuscript presents an interesting amount of proposed knowledge that could be valuable in generating resilient genotypes for multiple stressors.

Phoenixin knockout mice show no impairment in fertility or differences in metabolic response to a high-fat diet, but exhibit behavioral differences in an open field test.

Phoenixin (PNX) is a conserved secreted peptide that was identified 10 years ago with numerous studies published on its pleiotropic functions. PNX is associated with estrous cycle length, protection from a high-fat diet, and reduction of anxiety behavior. However, no study had yet evaluated the impact of deleting PNX in the whole animal. We sought to evaluate a mouse model lacking the PNX parent gene, small integral membrane protein 20 (Smim20), and the resulting effect on reproduction, energy homeostasis, and anxiety. We found that the Smim20 knockout mice had normal fertility and estrous cycle lengths. Consistent with normal fertility, the hypothalamii of the knockout mice showed no changes in the levels of reproduction-related genes, but the male mice had some changes in energy homeostasis-related genes, such as melanocortin receptor 4 (Mc4r). When placed on a high-fat diet, the wildtype and knockout mice responded similarly, but the male heterozygous mice gained slightly less weight. When placed in an open field test box, the female knockout mice traveled less distance in the outer zone, indicating alterations in anxiety or locomotor behavior. In summary, the homozygous knockout of PNX did not alter fertility and modestly alters a few neuroendocrine genes in response to a high-fat diet, especially in the female mice. However, it altered the behavior of mice in an open field test. PNX therefore may not be crucial for reproductive function or weight, however, we cannot rule out possible compensatory mechanisms in the knockout model. Understanding the role of PNX in physiology may ultimately lead to an enhanced understanding of neuroendocrine mechanisms involving this enigmatic peptide.

Driving Role of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Different Sizes and Hydrophobicity in Metabolic Response and Eco-Corona Formation in Sprouts (Vigna radiata).

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) cause biotoxicity and pose a potential ecological threat; however, their effects on plant metabolism and eco-corona evolution between NPs and organisms remain unclear. This study clarified the molecular mechanisms underlying physiological and metabolic responses induced by three different ZnO NPs with different sizes and hydrophobicity in sprouts (Vigna radiata) and explored the critical regulation of eco-corona formation in root-nano systems. Results indicated that smaller-sized ZnO inhibited root elongation by up to 37.14% and triggered oxidative burst and apoptosis. Metabolomics confirmed that physiological maintenance after n-ZnO exposure was mainly attributed to the effective stabilization of nitrogen fixation and defense systems by biotransformation of the flavonoid pathway. Larger-sized or hydrophobic group-modified ZnO exhibited low toxicity in sprouts, with 0.89-fold upregulation of citrate in central carbon metabolism. This contributed to providing energy for resistance to NP stress through amino acid and carbon/nitrogen metabolism, accompanied by changes in membrane properties. Notably, smaller-sized and hydrophobic NPs intensely stimulated the release of root metabolites, forming corona complexes with exudates. The hydrogen-bonded wrapping mechanism in protein secondary structure and hydrophobic interactions of heterogeneous functional groups drove eco-corona formation, along with the corona evolution intensity of n-ZnO > s-ZnO > b-ZnO based on higher (α-helix + 3-turn helix)/β-sheet ratios. This study provides crucial insight into metabolic and eco-corona evolution in bionano fates.

Growth performance, health status and flesh quality of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) reared in variable stocking densities in biofloc system

Optimization of ideal stocking density in intensive aquaculture system is a challenging appraisal. Higher stocking density is inducing chronic stress, impacting negatively on physiology and increasing disease associated risks in fish. Hence, the study was designed to evaluate the water quality, growth performance, health status and flesh quality of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). The fish (2.61–2.64 ± 0.01 g initial body weight) were reared in randomly designed variable stocking densities (SDs) including five treatments (30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 fish m−3) in triplicates at C:N ratio 15:1 in jaggery supplemented biofloc system for 120 days in 1000 –L experimental fiber-reinforced plastic tanks. SD30 acted as control treatment having low stocking density. During the culture, pH, alkalinity and dissolved oxygen level decreased and BOD increased with increased stocking density. TDS and TSS level increased upto SD50 treatment and further decreased in higher stocking density treatments. Higher population of heterotrophic, ammonifying and nitrifying bacteria significantly (p < 0.05) reduced TAN, NH3-N, NO2-N, and elevated NO3-Nas well as rate and potential of ammonification and nitrification in SD50 treatment than other treatments. Bacillariophyceae and protozoa were most dominant group in the biofloc microbiome in all the treatments. Highly elevated biofloc volume, floc microbiome, good floc characteristics and floc quality might have enhanced fish survival rate, body weight gain, SGR through improving FCR in SD50 than other SDs. Moreover, higher population of gut microbiota (TPC and probiotic) and elevated digestive enzymes activity in fish reared in SD50 treatment significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced PER, ANPU, and somatic indices (GSI and HSI) as well as enhanced colour (lightness, yellowness/blueness and whiteness), flesh quality and hardness. Fish reared in SD50 treatment showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher haematological (TEC, TLC and Hb), immunological (TSP, albumin, RBA and lysozyme), antioxidant responses (higher SOD and CAT) and lower metabolic stress enzymes responses (ALT, AST and glucose). Moreover, fish reared in SD50 treatment showed improved villi surface area and height in intestine and slightly vacuolated hepatocytes in liver. Overall, significantly (p < 0.05) better water quality, fish performance, health status and flesh quality were observed in SD50. Collectively, the findings suggest that farmers can be benefitted by fetching higher production through suitable stocking density (50fish m−3) of P. hypophthalmus in biofloc with improved water quality, growth performance, health status and flesh quality.

Solanum nigrum L. berries extract ameliorated the alcoholic liver injury by regulating gut microbiota, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress

Solanum nigrum L. (SN) berry is an edible berry containing abundant polyphenols and bioactive compounds, which possess antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. However, the effects of SN on alcohol-induced biochemical changes in the enterohepatic axis remain unclear. In the current study, a chronic ethanol-fed mice ALD model was used to test the protective mechanisms of SN berries. Microbiota composition was determined via 16S rRNA sequencing, we found that SN berries extract (SNE) improved intestinal imbalance by reducing the Firmicutes to Bacteroides ratio, restoring the abundance of Akkermansia microbiota, and reducing the abundance of Allobaculum and Shigella. SNE restored the intestinal short-chain fatty acids content. In addition, liver transcriptome data analysis revealed that SNE primarily affected the genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, SNE ameliorated hepatic steatosis in alcohol-fed mice by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPAR-α). SNE reduced the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor-88 (MyD88) nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), which can indicate that SNE mainly adjusted LPS/TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway to reduce liver inflammation. SNE enhanced hepatic antioxidant capacity by regulating NRF2-related protein expression. SNE alleviates alcoholic liver injury by regulating of gut microbiota, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress. This study may provide a reference for the development and utilization of SN resources.

Adverse Outcome Phenomena and Toxicity Mechanisms of Micro and Nanoplastics in Human Health

The ubiquitous presence of micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment has become a pressing global concern, particularly regarding the potential impacts on human health. This review underscores the urgent need for an integrative research framework that bridges the gap between epidemiological observations and toxicological insights. Human exposure to MNPs occurs predominantly through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact pathways. Epidemiological findings have consistently demonstrated the presence of MNPs in diverse human tissues, signaling a broad exposure and emphasizing the imperative to explore potential health risks. Population surveys have shown that the concentration of MNPs in the feces of people using disposable plastic tableware reaches 24.65 items/g. These results are associated with changes in microbiota composition and metabolite levels relevant to central nervous system disorders, energy metabolism and inflammatory responses. The detectable abundance of MNPs in the nasal mucus of individuals wearing N95 masks was measured to be 10.6 ± 2.3 items/mg. Moreover, population-based studies have linked MNP exposure to adverse health outcomes, suggesting correlation relationships between exposure levels and specific diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and human pulmonary ground-glass nodules (GGN). These associations underscore the necessity for in-depth toxicological investigations to elucidate the toxicity mechanisms of MNPs. Meanwhile, laboratory-based toxicological studies have the potential to reveal causative relationships and various in vitro and in vivo models have been used to explore the mechanisms of the toxicity of MNPs in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs and cardiovascular system. However, early studies failed to reflect on the complexity of the real environment. To foster interdisciplinary collaborations, this paper aims to reconcile the disparities between exposure risks and human health impacts. By critically reviewing recent advancements in understanding the exposure risks of MNPs, epidemiological observations and organ-specific toxicity, this work furnishes a comprehensive perspective on the health implications of MNPs.

ROS-Responsive Methionine-Containing Amphiphilic Peptides Impart Enzyme-Triggered Phase Transition and Antioxidant Cell Protection.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced by cellular activities, such as metabolism and immune response, and play important roles in cell signaling and homeostasis. However, overproduced ROS causes irreversible damage to nucleic acids and membrane lipids, supporting genetic mutations and enhancing the effects of aging. Cells defend themselves against ROS using antioxidant systems based on redox-active sulfur and transition metals. Inspired by such biological redox-responsive systems, we developed methionine-containing self-assembling peptides. The Met-containing peptides formed hydrogels that underwent a gel-to-sol phase transition upon oxidation by H2O2, and the sensitivity of the peptides to the oxidant increased as the number of Met residues increased. The peptide containing three Met residues, the largest number of Met residues in our series of designed peptides, showed the highest sensitivity to oxidation and detoxification to protect cells from ROS damage. In addition, this peptide underwent a phase transition in response to H2O2 produced by an oxidizing enzyme. This study demonstrates the design of a supramolecular biomaterial that is responsive to enzymatically generated ROS and can protect cells against oxidative stress.

Exercise Influences the Brain's Metabolic Response to Chronic Cocaine Exposure in Male Rats.

Cocaine use is associated with negative health outcomes: cocaine use disorders, speedballing, and overdose deaths. Currently, treatments for cocaine use disorders and overdose are non-existent when compared to opioid use disorders, and current standard cocaine use disorder treatments have high dropout and recidivism rates. Physical exercise has been shown to attenuate addiction behavior as well as modulate brain activity. This study examined the differential effects of chronic cocaine use between exercised and sedentary rats. The effects of exercise on brain glucose metabolism (BGluM) following chronic cocaine exposure were assessed using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and [18F]-Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). Compared to sedentary animals, exercise decreased metabolism in the SIBF primary somatosensory cortex. Activation occurred in the amygdalopiriform and piriform cortex, trigeminothalamic tract, rhinal and perirhinal cortex, and visual cortex. BGluM changes may help ameliorate various aspects of cocaine abuse and reinstatement. Further investigation is needed into the underlying neuronal circuits involved in BGluM changes and their association with addiction behaviors.

Disappearance of "Elongated Pony Tail Sign" Following Chemoradiotherapy in a Case of Primary Cerebellopontine Angle Ependymoma With Spinal Drop Metastasis: 18F-FDG PET/CT Scan Findings.

Ependymomas are rare glial tumors that commonly arise from the lining cells of ventricular system and constitute ~10% of intracranial pediatric malignancies. The incidence of ependymoma in adults is rare. Due to close approximation with the ventricular system, subtentorial ependymomas are more prone to show cerebrospinal fluid metastasis compared with supratentorial ependymomas. We present a case of subtentorial cerebellopontine angle ependymoma with diffuse spinal drop metastases showing "elongated pony tail appearance" in a 69-year-old man with complete metabolic response on 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging following chemoradiotherapy.

Compartmental analysis: a new approach to estimate protein breakdown and meal response in health and critical illness.

This study aimed to discuss the use of the pulse stable isotope tracer approach to study changes in metabolism in healthy individuals and critically ill patients. We found that in the postabsorptive state and healthy condition, intracellular protein breakdown and net intracellular protein breakdown, when calculated using the pulse tracer approach, are about double what has previously been reported using the more traditional primed-constant and continuous stable isotope approaches (600 versus 300 grams of protein/day). In critically ill patients, protein breakdown is even higher and calculated to be approximately 900 grams of protein/day, using the pulse tracer approach. Based on these data, we hypothesize that reducing protein breakdown in the postabsorptive state is key when trying to improve the condition of critically ill patients. Moreover, we also used the pulse tracer approach during feeding to better estimate the intracellular metabolic response to feeding. Our first observation is that endogenous protein breakdown does not seem to be reduced during feeding. We also have shown that when consuming a meal with a certain amount of protein, the biological value of that protein meal can be calculated with the pulse tracer approach. In conclusion, using the pulse stable isotope tracer approach to study protein kinetics in the postabsorptive state and during feeding expands our understanding of how dietary proteins can affect human protein metabolism. The intracellular protein synthesis stimulatory effect of a meal is an important factor to consider when calculating the exact protein requirements and needs, particularly in critical illness.

The role of food preservatives in shaping metabolic profile and chemical sensitivity of fungi - an extensive study on crucial mycological food contaminants from the genus Neosartorya (Aspergillus spp.)

Food preservatives are crucial in fruit production, but fungal resistance is a challenge. The main objective was to compare the sensitivity of Neosartorya spp. isolates to preservatives used in food security applications and to assess the role of metabolic properties in shaping Neosartorya spp. resistance. Sodium metabisulfite, potassium sorbate, sodium bisulfite and sorbic acid showed inhibitory effects, with sodium metabisulfite the most effective. Tested metabolic profiles included fungal growth intensity and utilization of amines and amides, amino acids, polymers, carbohydrates and carboxylic acids. Significant decreases in the utilization of all tested organic compound guilds were observed after fungal exposure to food preservatives compared to the control. Although the current investigation was limited in the number of predominately carbohydrate substrates and the breadth of metabolic responses, extensive sensitivity panels are logical step in establishing a course of action against spoilage agents in food production being important approach for innovative food chemistry.