Retention Capacity Research Articles

Three-in-One: Molecular Engineering of D-A-π-A Featured Type I and Type II Near-Infrared AIE Photosensitizers for Efficient Photodynamic Cancer Therapy and Bacteria Killing.

Bacterial infections are closely correlated with the genesis and progression of cancer, and the elimination of cancer-related bacteria may improve the efficacy of cancer treatment. However, the combinatorial therapy that utilizes two or more chemodrugs will increase potential adverse effects. Image-guided photodynamic therapy is a highly precise and potential therapy to treat tumor and microbial infections. Herein, four donor-acceptor-π-bridge-acceptor (D-A-π-A) featured near-infrared (NIR) aggregation-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens)(TQTPy, TPQTPy, TQTC, and TPQTC) with type I and type II reaction oxygen species (ROS) generation capabilities are synthesized. Notably, TQTPy shows mitochondria targeted capacity, the best ROS production efficiency, long-term tumor retention capacity, and more importantly, the three-in-one fluorescence imaging guided therapy against both tumor and microbial infections. Both in vitro and in vivo results validate that TQTPy performs well in practical biomedical application in terms of NIR-fluorescence imaging-guided photodynamic cancer diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, the amphiphilic and positively charged TQTPy is able to specific and ultrafast discrimination and elimination of Gram-positive (G+) Staphylococcus aureus from Gram-negative (G-) Escherichia coli and normal cells. This investigation provides an instructive way for the construction of three-in-one treatment for image-guided photodynamic cancer therapy and bacteria elimination.

A novel nanofiltration membrane with a dual-charged layer to simultaneously remove anions and cations from acid mine drainage

A novel nanofiltration (NF) membrane with a positively and negatively dual-charged layer was finely designed in this study. The membrane was prepared by co-deposition of 4-tert-butylpyrocatechol (TBC) and polyethyleneimine (PEI) and electrostatic interaction to assemble positively and negatively charged functional layers on a substrate which is polyamide (PA)-based NF membrane. The NF membrane achieved excellent retention capacity through the combined effects of Donnan repulsion and electrostatic field trapping. The prepared membrane had a dense but thin surface layer with an average pore size of 0.84 nm, enabling an improved membrane flux of 8.66 L/(m2·h·bar) and high rejection to divalent inorganic salt ions (93.56 % Mg2+, 99.56 % SO42-). The membrane was used to treat acid mine drainage (AMD) and achieved an excellent retention capacity for ions in AMD (93.25 % Mg2+, 91.58 % Ca2+, 94.22 % Mn2+, 95.96 % SO42-), meeting industrial wastewater discharge standards. In addition, the NF membrane demonstrated good anti-fouling performance during the AMD treatment and significant potential for environmental remediation applications.

Effects of alginate synergized with polyphenol compounds on the retrogradation properties of corn starch

This study aimed to investigate the impact of alginate (AG) on the retrogradation properties of corn starch (CS) in conjunction with three phenolic compounds, including naringin (NA), rutin (RT), and soy isoflavones (SI). The findings indicated that AG, NA, RT, and SI collectively resulted in a significant reduction in the hardness, retrogradation enthalpy, and relaxation time of CS gel. This effect was more pronounced when compared to NA, RT, and SI individually. The findings suggested that the elemental system comprising AG, phenolic compounds, and CS yielded enhanced water retention capacity and thermal stability. Moreover, a noticeable decrease in the short-range ordered structure and crystallinity was observed, indicating that AG and phenolic compounds effectively inhibited the retrogradation of CS; notably, the synergistic interaction between AG and SI resulted in the most favorable outcome. The results of this study provide new ideas for the design, development, and quality improvement of starch-based food.

The influence of nano-silica composite superabsorbent polymer on the autogenous shrinkage of mortar

To address the diminished shrinkage reduction capacity due to high ion sensitivity of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) within cement-based materials, this study employs solution polymerization where acrylic acid and acrylamide are copolymerized with nano-silica at varying concentrations to synthesize innovative SAPs. The investigation encompasses the structural groups, microscopic morphology, liquid absorption characteristics of these SAPs, and their effect on mortar's autogenous shrinkage. The results indicate that nano-silica can be encapsulated within polyacrylate-acrylamide network via physical adsorption and chemical grafting. The incorporation of nano-silica enhances the water absorption and retention capacities of SAPs in alkaline environments. Nano-silica composite SAPs absorb sufficient internal curing water and prolong the subsequent moisture gradient-driven water release process, continuously releasing water within matrix to maintain internal humidity, thereby further enhancing the shrinkage reduction effect on mortar. Based on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations of SAPs morphologies within mortar and X-ray Computed Tomography (X-CT) monitoring of internal curing water distribution, it is revealed that nano-silica undergoes pozzolanic reactions, forming a tightly connected domain with matrix. This facilitates continuous water release to the surrounding through capillary action, thus maintaining capillary pore liquid levels. Consequently, it effectively mitigating shrinkage stress and deformation, leading to an enhancement in shrinkage reduction effects.

Cellulose-based aerogels, films, and fibers for advanced biomedical applications

Cellulose possesses hydrophilicity, high water retention capacity, excellent mechanical properties, and biocompatibility, making it a promising candidate material for biomedical applications. As a substrate and dispersant used in the preparation of aerogels, films, and fibers, it improves their moisturizing ability, water absorption, drug utilization and slows down the rate of drug release, demonstrating outstanding therapeutic effects in biomedical research. This review summarizes and discusses the latest advancements in the application of cellulose-based aerogels, films, and fibers in the biomedical field. First, the properties of cellulose and its application principles in biomedical materials are analyzed. Second, the methods for preparing cellulose-based aerogels, films, and fibers are summarized, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Then, the latest research progress of cellulose-based aerogels, films, and fibers in drug delivery, wound dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds is reviewed. Finally, the review concludes with a summary and provides future development directions for the field.

Effect of Nixtamalization on the Physical Functional and Nutritional Properties of Foxtail Millet Flour

Aims: To investigate the physico-functional and nutritional properties of nixtamalized foxtail millet and compare them with non-nixtamalized millet. Nixtamalization is an ancient processing technique involving the soaking and cooking of grains in an alkaline solution, typically lime water. This process enhances the nutritional profile, flavor, and functional properties of grains, making them more suitable for various culinary applications. Minor millets possess immense nutritional value, comparable to that of wheat, rice, and maize. Study Design: Experimental design. Place and Duration of Study: Foxtail millet grain and maize grain were procured from Millet Processing and Incubation Centre (MPIC) PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad and food grade calcium hydroxide chemical was purchased from local market in Hyderabad. This study was concluded during 2023. Methodology: Maize grain and foxtail millet were nixtamalized and analyzed for physical parameters viz. thousand kernel weight, thousand kernel volume and bulk density. Functional properties of nixtamalized grains such as swelling power, swelling capacity water solubility index, water holding capacity, oil absorption capacity; water absorption capacity and oil retention capacity and nutritional properties like moisture, fat, ash, crude fibre, carbohydrates, protein, energy. Results: It was found that physical parameters viz. thousand kernel weight, thousand kernel volume and bulk density decreased in nixtamalized maize and foxtail grains. Functional properties of nixtamalized maize and foxtail flours such as swelling power, water solubility index, water holding capacity oil absorption capacity; water absorption capacity and oil retention capacity also increased significantly (p≤0.05) and swelling capacity significantly decreased in nixtamalized maize and foxtail flours. Significant increase (p≤0.05) in moisture NM (34.31%) NF3 (27.51%), ash content NM (49.61%) NF3 (2.37%), carbohydrate content (2.35%) NF3 (2.10%) and fat content NM (35.85%) NF3 (26.30%), crude fibre NM (26. 35%) NF3 (29.22%), energy NM, (3.2%), NF3 (3.56%) in nixtamalized grains was observed while protein value of nixtamalized grains were significantly lower NM (11.76%) NF3 (6.50%) compared to untreated grains.

Spatial modeling for detection of water retention capacity in technosols developed on carboniferous spoil heap after hard coal mining

Post-industrial areas, such as heaps, are an Anthropocene pressure on the environment but show natural potential for new ecosystem services, i.e., water retention, biodiversity, and C-sequestration. All these ecosystem functions of such sites can be developed only in the case of appropriate reclamation treatments, which are especially difficult under the conditions of carboniferous spoil heaps after coal deep mining. The study of reclamation effects has been increasingly supported in recent years by modern remote sensing techniques. This paper presents the possibilities of using selected remote sensing data and topographic indices and their effect on volumetric water content, which is crucial for habitat development. PlanetScope satellite imagery and airborne laser scanning point clouds were used to estimate the volumetric water content (VWC) of soil. This integrated analysis allows for more accurate spatial modeling of soil moisture, a key indicator of ecological restoration in degraded land. The method of generalized additive models was used to develop a predictive model. The developed predictive model was characterized by the following values of model accuracy evaluation parameters: MAE – 4.1%; RMSE – 5.6%; and R2–0.49. As a result of the analysis, topographic and spectral variables with significant influence on VWC were identified, and a map of the retention capacity of the Sosnica heap was developed.

Açai seed biochar improves soil quality and black pepper seedling development in the Amazon region

Sustainable management of the Amazon rainforest is fundamental for supporting life on earth because of its crucial role in sequestering carbon. One of the species grown in the forest is açaí (Euterpe oleracea), which is an important food and income source for its inhabitant. The acai seed, resulting from the processing of the fruit, is a solid organic residue, which has been an agent of undesirable environmental impacts such as natural landscape modifications, clogging sewers and water courses, eutrophication of surface waters. In this research, we evaluated the use of wood chips as a source of energy in a rustic oven to produce acai biochar so that family farmers carry out sustainable management of the residue and use biochar to improve soil quality and produce seedlings of native plants to regenerate degraded forests. The experiment was conducted in Pará, Brazil, Amazon region, using a randomized complete block design. A factorial treatment structure was implemented consisting of four biochar particle sizes (3, 5, 7, and 12 mm), 4 application rates (4, 8, 16, and 32 t ha−1), and a biochar-free control, with 5 replications. The results showed that the methodology for biochar production was easy to apply and low cost, allowing its use by family farmers. The combination of biochar rate and particle size affected soil properties and the development of black pepper seedlings in different ways. The soil properties affected were water retention capacity, moisture, fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis and arylsulphatase activity. The growth parameters of the affected black pepper seedlings were height and root system development.

Research on the treatment and utilization of hydrophobic soil in sponge city construction

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of hydrophobic soil, including its strong hydrophobicity, poor water retention capacity, and unstable mechanical properties. It explores treatment technologies for hydrophobic soil such as soil amendments, bioremediation techniques, and physical treatment methods. Based on these findings, the paper proposes the utilization of hydrophobic soil as permeable paving material, filling material for rain gardens and ecological retention ponds, covering layer for green roofs, and for ecological slopes and dikes. These suggestions provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the effective use of hydrophobic soil in sponge city construction.

Determination of Surface Charge Density and Charge Mapping of CYTOP Film in Air using Electrostatic Force Microscopy.

Cyclic transparent optical polymer (CYTOP), a fluoropolymer, finds a plethora of applications in microelectronic devices for sustainable energy harvesting and memory devices. By and large, these devices demand high voltage breakdown, a high dielectric constant, transparency, charge storage, and retention capabilities. Despite many efforts, comprehensive investigation of the charge distribution, retention, and discharge studies conducted on the CYTOP film at the micro-scale remains elusive. Here, we present direct quantification and mapping of surface charge on the CYTOP surface at room temperature using two different modes of advanced surface probe microscopy i.e., Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) and electrostatic force microscopy (EFM). We estimated that the surface charge densities of the CYTOP film using EFM are 1.4 and 3.3 μC/cm2 for the injection of positive and negative charges, respectively. Furthermore, we determined the charge retention time for both injected positive and negative charges. We found that the retention capacity of the negative charges on the CYTOP film is much higher as compared to the positive charges. Moreover, it is also observed that injected negative charges are strongly localized on the CYTOP surface compared to the positive counterpart. Additionally, we demonstrated that charge writing is possible on the CYTOP surface using the AFM conductive tip. These results may find potential applications in energy harvesting, sensing, memory devices, security, and surveillance.

Static and dynamic properties investigation of modified polyethersulfone membrane for direct methanol fuel cell applications

The present study's main focus is understanding the impact of modification, especially through phosphoric acid and acetic acid, on polyethersulfone (PES) membranes for direct methanol fuel cell application, as sulfonation is the preferred modification method. The cross-linking introduces the sulfonate, phosphonate, and carboxylate group in the polymer matrix, while the membrane's semi-crystalline nature and homogeneous surface are confirmed through instrumental analysis. The high ion exchange capacity and water retention capacity of the phosphoric acid cross-linked PES membrane (PPES-2) reveal its potentiality. The impact of different hydration levels and temperatures on proton conductivity indicates that based on the operating conditions, the cross-linked membrane can be used, such as at high temperatures and 50 % hydration level, the PPES-2 membrane shows high proton conductivity as well as has low methanol crossover due to the presence of hydroxyl group. At the same time, the acetic acid-treated PES (CPES-2) membrane shows high proton conductivity at 50 % hydration level and low temperature. The same is confirmed through molecular dynamic simulation by understanding their dynamic and static properties. The PPES-2 membrane shows maximum power density (0.34 Wcm−2). In conclusion, the study indicates that PES modification can be done through phosphorylation and carboxylation, apart from sulfonation.

Obtaining coffee mucilage microcapsules by spray drying using chemically modified banana starch

The growing global consumption of coffee has positioned Colombia as the third largest producer worldwide. However, the processing of coffee beans generates significant by-products, such as mucilage, which is rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity. Inadequate disposal of this waste creates environmental problems and economic losses. This research aimed to develop high-quality coffee mucilage capsules using spray drying technology. Chemically modified banana starch with octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) and commercial maltodextrin were used as coating materials to enhance the properties of the capsules. Physicochemical and functional characterization was performed on samples of fresh and filtered coffee mucilage (MF), concentrated mucilage (MC), concentrated mucilage with the addition of maltodextrin and OSA-modified starch (MCMA), and finally, spray-dried coffee mucilage powder (MP). The antioxidant capacity (AC) of the mucilage was evaluated throughout the processing stages. MF showed an AC of 179.2 µmol of trolox/100 g, while the final coffee mucilage powder (MP) showed a significantly higher AC of 5444.35 µmol of trolox/100 g. Additionally, the MP showed a stability index of 0.48, water activity (aw) of 0.19, solubility of 14.64%, and a high water retention capacity of 90.53%. Microscopic analysis revealed amorphous structures with an average size of 29.16 ± 2.12 µm in the MP. These findings highlight the potential of spray drying with food-grade matrices such as OSA-modified banana starch to encapsulate coffee mucilage, preserving its antioxidant capacity and creating a new functional food ingredient with water retention properties.

Use of rice straw nano-biochar to slow down water infiltration and reduce nitrogen leaching in a clayey soil

Biochar exhibits numerous advantages in enhancing the soil environment despite a few limitations due to its lower surface energy. Nanomodified biochar combines the advantages of biochar and nanoscale materials. However, its effects on water infiltration and N leaching in a clayey soil remain unclear. Therefore, this study prepared rice straw nano-biochar by a ball milling method, and investigated its physicochemical properties and effects of bulk biochar and nano-biochar at various addition rates (0 %, 0.5 %, 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, and 5 %) on wetting peak migration, cumulative infiltration, water absorption and retention, and N leaching. The results showed that, compared with bulk biochar, nano-biochar presented a more abundant pore structure with an increase in specific surface area of approximately 1.5 times, accompanied by a 20 % increase in acid functional groups. Compared with those for clayey soil without biochar addition, the wetting front migration time was increased by 10.2 %–123.9 % and 17.0 %–257.9 %, and the cumulative infiltration volume at 60 min was decreased by 26.0 %–48.4 % and 14.1 %–62.4 % for bulk biochar and nano-biochar, respectively. The parameter S of Philip model and the parameter a of Kostiakov model for nano-biochar were lower than those for bulk biochar, whereas the parameter b of Kostiakov model was greater, indicating that nano-biochar decreased initial soil infiltration rate and increased attenuation degree of the infiltration rate. Nano-biochar increased water absorption by 8.03 % and subsequently enhanced water retention capacity relative to bulk biochar. In addition, bulk biochar and nano-biochar reduced NH4+-N leaching by 3.0 %–13.1 % and 5.7 %–39.2 %, respectively, and NO3−-N leaching by 2.7 %–3.6 % and 9.0 %–43.3 %, respectively, by decreasing N concentration and leachate volume relative to those with no biochar addition. This study provides new knowledge for nano-biochar application in a clayey soil.

Soil fertility and plant nutrition in an organic olive orchard after 5 years of amendment with compost, biochar or their blend

The agronomic use of compost and biochar as soil amendments may exhibit contrasting results in terms of soil fertility and plant nutrition. The effects of the biennial application of biochar, compost and a blend of compost:biochar (90:10; % dw:dw) on the agronomical performance of an organically managed and well established 25-year-old olive orchard was assessed 5 years after the initial application. The agronomical evaluation was based on the assessment of the soil physical, chemical, and biological characteristics, and the assessment of the soil fertility by both crop production and nutritional status of the orchard, and the bioassay with olive plantlets. Biochar mainly benefited the physical properties (bulk density, total porosity, aeration, water retention capacity) of soil, especially in the top 0–5 cm. Compost and its blend with biochar improved microbial activity, soil nutritional status (increasing the content of soluble organic C, N, and P) and favoured the formation of aggregates in soil. The bioassay conducted with young plantlets confirmed the enhanced soil fertility status in the three amended treatments, particularly in the case of biochar and its blend with compost. However, this effect was not significantly observed in the adult plants after 5 years of application, reflecting the slow response of adult olive trees to changes in fertilization. Based on these results, alongside the desirable long-residence time of biochar in soil and the ready availability of compost, the blend of biochar with compost assayed in this study is defined as a valid strategy for preparing high quality soil organic amendments.

Justification of membrane filtration parameters in the production of whey protein isolate

The research was aimed at studying the combined effect of micro- and ultrafiltration technological parameters for justification of rational modes in the production of whey protein isolate. The process flow of whey protein isolate production was determined. It includes whey purification from casein dust and fat, pasteurization, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, ultrafiltration (combined with diafiltration), spray drying. Concentration was carried out from a dry matter mass fraction of 5.4-5.6% to 11.3-12.6% (protein concentration factor is 6.5-13). Microfiltration of the resulting retentate was used to maximize disposal of milk fat. The process was carried out using ceramic membranes (pore size from 0.14 pm to 1.4 pm). Their protein retention capacity was 0.2-0.4%, fat retention capacity was 64.6-76.2%. Rational microfiltration modes were selected. They are inlet pressure 0.15-0.2 MPa and temperature 10-15 °C. The microfiltration permeate was treated via repeated ultrafiltration combining it with diafiltration. It was possible to achieve the protein content in dry matter of the product not more than 87% using diafiltration with half the volume of water. However, it does not meet the requirements for the isolate. Increasing the amount of water for diafiltration caused a rise in the protein content in dry matter of the concentrate. The protein mass fraction in the whey protein isolate before drying was at least 17%. The whey protein isolate powder was characterized by the high protein content (93% in terms of SNF), quality and safety indicators met the requirements of regulatory documentation.

Evaluation of different combinations of potting media and ornamental plants on growth, biochemical, and nutrient content in outdoor vertical gardening

The current study was carried out to evaluate various combinations of potting media and ornamental plants for outdoor vertical gardening as, these days to use vertical space is trending with increasing urbanization. This study will help to workout best potting media ratio for them. We will conclude to highlight a best combination of potting media, among, T1: Soil + Farm Yard Manure + Cocopeat (50:25:25), T2: Soil + Farm Yard Manure + Cocopeat (25:50:25), T3: Soil + Farm Yard Manure + Cocopeat (25:25:50), T4: Soil + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (25:50:25), and T5 (Control): Soil + Farm Yard Manure (50:50) and best plant species among Syngonium podophyllum, Dracaena compacta (Red), Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, Dracaena reflexa, and Pedilanthus tithymaloides. Each treatment contained 15 plants replicated thrice under the Completely Randomized Block Design. The potting media ratio combination in T4: Soil + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (25:50:25) proved to be the best for improvement of vegetative parameters and for the attractive foliage of the selected ornamental plants, having more ratio of vermicompost thus capable of providing good amount of all beneficial benefits with more moisture retention capacity and nutrients value than other combination of media used. The minimum value of all the observations recorded was found to be in T5 (Control): Soil + Farm Yard Manure (50:50).

Effect of peanut-skin fortification on oil separation and consumer acceptance of sesame butter

Background: Sesame butter offers a rich source of health benefits, but its commercial viability is hampered by oil separation during storage. Aims: This study aimed to develop a sesame butter formulation with improved oil retention capacity using peanut skins (PS) as a natural thickening agent, while also evaluating consumer acceptance of the resulting product. Material and Methods: Sesame butter was prepared from roasted sesame seeds. The formulation was then reformulated with the incorporation of PS at varying concentrations (0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 5.0% and 10.0%). Oil separation in these formulations was monitored throughout a storage period of 63 days, with measurements recorded at regular intervals (1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, 56 and 63 days). To assess consumer acceptability, 50 untrained panelists evaluated the sensory attributes (flavor, texture, and overall acceptance) of the sesame butter formulations using a 9-point hedonic scale. Results: Consumer acceptance of the sesame butter was primarily influenced by the formulation's sensory characteristics, particularly flavor and color. Texture did not significantly impact overall acceptance (p = 0.975). Notably, the degree of oil separation significantly decreased (p = 0.00) with increasing PS concentration. A marked reduction in oil separation occurred after 14 days of storage. Formulations containing 10.0% and 5.0% PS exhibited the most effective oil retention, while the 1.0% PS formulation received the highest consumer ratings for flavor, texture, and overall acceptability. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential of peanut skins as a viable food additive to enhance oil retention capacity and consumer acceptance of sesame butter. Notably, the optimal PS concentration for improved functionality and consumer preference appears to be at a lower level (1.0%). This finding suggests the potential for effective oil separation control without compromising consumer perception of the product.

Radiation resistance and saturated adsorption capacity of a superabsorbent polymer and anion-supporting hydrogel for the safe storage of treated water

Treated tritium-containing water is stored in tanks at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant until ocean discharge is completed; however, the risk of leakage and contamination remains. We propose the combination of a superabsorbent polymer and an anion-supporting hydrogel for the safe and long-term storage of this water. The external radiation resistance of these materials in the presence of water was investigated, and their water absorption and Cs+ and I retention capacities following irradiation to a cumulative absorbed dose of up to 40 Gy were determined. The superabsorbent polymer demonstrated good water retention and Cs+ adsorption capability. The saturated I adsorption capacity of the hydrogel was 575 ± 28 mg/g, and maintained up to an absorbed dose of 100 Gy. The proposed method can be implemented until the planned completion of water processing even if the storage location has a dose rate of 100 µGy/h.

Exploring the natural efficacy of spirulina powder for combating obesity, diabetes, and inflammation.

An increasing incidence of metabolic disorders emphasizes the need to explore natural treatments. Spirulina, a microalga with a rich nutrient profile, offers a promising solution for obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. This study provides a meticulous analysis of spirulina powder, evaluating its physicochemical attributes and technofunctional properties through the use of advanced analytical techniques. Spirulina powder demonstrated strong flowability, substantial water and oil absorption capacity, and moderate foaming characteristics. The ethanolic extract of spirulina was found to be a repository of phenolic (6.93 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (7.17 mg QE/g) compounds, manifesting considerable antioxidant activity with a 58.49 g kg-1 inhibition of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. The extract also exhibited pronounced inhibitory effects on lipase and amylase enzymes, with inhibition percentages of 72.05 g kg-1 and 70.28 g kg-1, respectively, and displayed a glucose retention capacity of 1.28 mg dL-1 (68.52 g kg-1) in a dialysis membrane assay. These results suggest its efficacy in modulating obesity and glycemic control. The powder also showed a potent anti-inflammatory response by mitigating protein denaturation. Spirulina powder is a potent natural agent with multiple health benefits, meriting its incorporation into functional foods. It could be suitable for application in the food industry, offering a natural strategy to combat metabolic diseases. This research adds to the scientific literature on spirulina, paving the way for future research into its utilization. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Mitoregulin self-associates to form likely homo-oligomeric pore-like structures.

We and others previously found that a misannotated long noncoding RNA encodes for a conserved mitochondrial transmembrane microprotein named Mitoregulin (Mtln). Beyond an established role for Mtln in lipid metabolism, Mtln has also been shown to more broadly influence mitochondria, boosting respiratory efficiency and Ca 2+ retention capacity, while lowering ROS, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unresolved. Prior studies have identified possible Mtln protein interaction partners; however, a lack of consensus persists, and no claims have been made about Mtln's structure. We previously noted two key published observations that seemingly remained overlooked: 1) endogenous Mtln co-immunoprecipitates with epitope-tagged Mtln at high efficiency, and 2) Mtln primarily exists in a ∼66 kDa complex. To investigate if Mtln may self-oligomerize into higher-order complexes, we performed co-immunoprecipitation, protein modeling simulations, and native gel assessments of Mtln-containing complexes in cells and tissues, as well as tested whether synthetic Mtln protein itself forms oligomeric complexes. Our combined results provide strong support that Mtln self-associates and likely forms a hexameric pore-like structure.