Metabolic System Research Articles

Photosynthetic demands on translational machinery drive retention of redundant tRNA metabolism in plant organelles

Eukaryotic nuclear genomes often encode distinct sets of translation machinery for function in the cytosol vs. organelles (mitochondria and plastids). This raises questions about why multiple translation systems are maintained even though they are capable of comparable functions and whether they evolve differently depending on the compartment where they operate. These questions are particularly interesting in plants because translation machinery, including aminoacyl-transfer RNA (tRNA) synthetases (aaRS), is often dual-targeted to the plastids and mitochondria. These organelles have different functions, with much higher rates of translation in plastids to supply the abundant, rapid-turnover proteins required for photosynthesis. Previous studies have indicated that plant organellar aaRS evolve more slowly compared to mitochondrial aaRS in eukaryotes that lack plastids. Thus, we investigated the evolution of nuclear-encoded organellar and cytosolic aaRS and tRNA maturation enzymes across a broad sampling of angiosperms, including nonphotosynthetic (heterotrophic) plant species with reduced plastid gene expression, to test the hypothesis that translational demands associated with photosynthesis constrain the evolution of enzymes involved in organellar tRNA metabolism. Remarkably, heterotrophic plants exhibited wholesale loss of many organelle-targeted aaRS and other enzymes, even though translation still occurs in their mitochondria and plastids. These losses were often accompanied by apparent retargeting of cytosolic enzymes and tRNAs to the organelles, sometimes preserving aaRS-tRNA charging relationships but other times creating surprising mismatches between cytosolic aaRS and mitochondrial tRNA substrates. Our findings indicate that the presence of a photosynthetic plastid drives the retention of specialized systems for organellar tRNA metabolism.

Targeting the FSH/FSHR axis in ovarian cancer: advanced treatment using nanotechnology and immunotherapy

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the gynecological malignancy with the poorest prognosis. Surgery and chemotherapy are the primary therapies for OC; however, patients often experience recurrence. Given the intimate interaction between OC cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), it is imperative to devise treatments that target both tumor cells and TME components. Recently, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in the blood have been shown to correlate with poorer prognosis in individuals with OC. Ovarian carcinoma cells express FSH receptors (FSHRs). Thus, FSH is an important target in the development of novel therapeutic agents. Here, we review the effects of FSH on normal physiology, including the reproductive, skeletal, cardiac, and fat metabolic systems. Importantly, this review outlines the role and mechanism of the FSH/FSHR axis in the proliferation, survival, and metastasis of OC, providing theoretical support for the targeted FSHR treatment of OC. Current progress in targeting FSHR for OC, including the recent application of nanotechnology and immunotherapy, is presented. Finally, we discuss prospects and future directions of targeted FSHR therapy in OC.

Evaluation of enzymatic and non-enzymatic biomarkers of sublethal cadmium toxicity in the freshwater mussel (Unio tigridis).

Mussels are filter-feeding animals with a sedentary lifestyle and thus, they were accepted as good bioindicator animals to investigate environmental pollution. In this study, freshwater mussels (Unio tigridis) were exposed to cadmium (0, 30, 90, 270 µg Cd/L) for up to 21 days. Then, the responses of several biomarkers belonging to the antioxidant, osmoregulation and nervous systems, as well as the energy reserves of mussels were investigated. The animals were fed on laboratory-cultured algae (Chlorella vulgaris) during the experiments. Data showed that the exposure conditions did not cause mussel mortality within 21 days, though the levels of all biomarkers altered significantly (p < 0.05) compared to controls. Cadmium exposures significantly altered the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the digestive glands. Similarly, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the digestive glands significantly increased after cadmium exposures. Likewise, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and Ca-ATPase activity in the muscle significantly decreased. There were decreases in Na-ATPase and increases in Mg-ATPase activities in the gill. The total energy reserves of mussels significantly decreased, especially at the higher cadmium concentrations. This study showed that environmentally relevant cadmium concentrations could alter the levels of biomarkers belonging to different metabolic systems, emphasizing their possible usage in evaluating metal contamination.

Membraneless Compartmentalization of Cell-Free Transcription-Translation by Polymer-Assisted Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation.

Living cells use liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to compartmentalize metabolic functions into mesoscopic-sized droplets. Deciphering the mechanisms at play in LLPS is therefore critical to understanding the structuration and functions of cells at the subcellular level. Although observed and achieved to a significant degree of control in vivo, the reconstitution of LLPS integrating advanced biological functions, such as gene expression, has been so far limited in vitro. LLPS of cell-free transcription-translation (TXTL) reactions require multi-step experimental approaches that lack biomimetic and have relatively poor efficacy, thus limiting their usage in cell-free engineered systems such as synthetic cells. Here the polymer-assisted LLPS of TXTL reactions are reported as the single-pot one-step compartmentalization of a model complex metabolic system obtain without using solvents or surfactants. LLPS occurs by adding the biocompatible polymers poly(ethylene glycol), poly(vinyl alcohol), and dextran to a TXTL reaction, that remains highly active. These polymers serve as partitioning agents that localize TXTL in mesoscopic-sized droplets rich in dextran. Cytoplasmic and membrane-interacting proteins are synthesized preferentially inside these droplets, and localize either uniformly or preferentially at the interface, depending on their nature. The LLPS-TXTL system presented in this work is a step toward the design of synthetic membraneless active organelles.

Melatonin as a multifunctional modulator: emerging insights into its role in health, reproductive efficiency, and productive performance in livestock

Melatonin, a pleiotropic hormone plays a vital role in enhancing livestock performance not only by regulating circadian rhythms but also by exhibiting antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and metabolic regulatory effects that collectively improve resilience, fertility, and productivity. Melatonin’s synthesis is predominantly influenced by light exposure, with increased production in darkness; however, factors such as diet and health status further modulate its levels. By helping animals adapt to environmental stressors, melatonin boosts immune responses, mitigates chronic illnesses, and optimizes production efficiency. Its regulatory influence extends to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, enhancing hormone secretion, synchronizing estrous cycles, and improving embryo viability. This results in improved reproductive outcomes through the protection of gametes, increased sperm motility, and enhanced oocyte quality, all of which benefit the fertilization process. Additionally, melatonin positively impacts productive performance, promoting muscle growth, development, and optimizing milk yield and composition through its interaction with metabolic and endocrine systems. As ongoing research continues to uncover its broader physiological effects, melatonin supplementation emerges as a promising approach to improving livestock welfare, productivity, and sustainability in modern animal husbandry.

Targeting oxidative stress, iron overload and ferroptosis in bone-degenerative conditions

Abstract Introduction Bone-degenerative conditions, including osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis, are major public health concerns worldwide, associated with oxidative stress and iron overload that disrupts bone homeostasis. Ferroptosis, an iron-mediated form of cell death, has emerged as a critical factor in bone degeneration, necessitating a comprehensive review of its role in these conditions. Content This review comprehensively examined the latest research on oxidative stress, iron metabolism, and ferroptosis related to bone biology and degeneration, focusing on their interconnections and potential therapeutic implications. The review revealed that oxidative stress affects various bone cell types, including osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes, contributing to bone loss and cartilage degradation. Iron homeostasis was found to be crucial for bone cell function, with both iron overload and deficiency potentially leading to pathological conditions. Ferroptosis regulation involves a complex interplay between iron metabolism, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant systems, including the SLC7A11-GSH-GPX4 network and the FSP1-CoQ10H2 pathway. Different bone cell lineages, including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and chondrocytes, exhibit varied responses to ferroptosis induction and regulation. Summary Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis regulation in bone cells offers promising avenues for developing targeted therapies for bone-degenerative conditions. Outlook Future research should focus on elucidating the specific roles of ferroptosis in different bone disorders and exploring potential therapeutic interventions targeting oxidative stress, iron overload, and ferroptosis pathways to improve the management of these debilitating conditions.

Smartphone-assisted colorimetry and array test strip integrated platform for urine multi-index simultaneous precise quantification and personalized healthcare monitoring

As a non-invasive monitoring method, urine analysis is one of the “three routines” of medical examination, which is of great significance for the early diagnosis, therapeutic effect judgment and long-term fine monitoring of chronic diseases such as metabolic system diseases and kidney diseases. It is imperative to develop a home urine routine detection system. In this paper, Smart Urine Analyzer is innovatively developed by combining smartphones with array urine dipsticks, and equipped with the unique design of adjustable bracket suitable for camera position of different smartphones. The optimal colorimetric value was selected for analysis based on chromogenic response characteristics combined with digital image colorimetry, and the breakthrough from qualitative semi-quantification to precise quantification of 9 kinds of urine biomarkers was completed. And a smartphone App for automated image recognition and processing was developed, which was applied for at-home routine healthcare. 100 clinical urine samples were used to evaluate the reliability of the system. Among them, the ROC curve showed a high consistency between Smart Urine Analyzer and the Dirui H-800 urine analyzer in hospital, which further verified the practicability. As a result, the user-friendly Smart Urine Analyzer can share health data and condition with doctors in real time, which provides a new scheme and means for the home detection of urine biomarkers, and has great practical application value as a potential home medical service assistant.

Bioprospecting of Metabolites from Actinomycetes and their Applications.

Actinomycetes are present in various terrestrial and aquatic habitats, predominantly in the soil rhizosphere, encompassing marine and freshwater ecosystems. These microorganisms exhibit characteristics that resemble both bacteria and fungi. Numerous actinomycetes exhibit a mycelial existence and undergo significant morphological transformations. These bacteria are widely recognized as biotechnologically significant microorganisms utilized for the production of secondary metabolites. In all, over 45% of all bioactive microbial metabolites are produced by actinomycetes, which are responsible for producing around 10,000 of them. The majority of actinomycetes exhibit substantial saprophytic characteristics in their natural environment, enabling them to effectively decompose a diverse range of plant and animal waste materials during the process of decomposition. Additionally, these organisms possess a sophisticated secondary metabolic system, which enables them to synthesize almost two-thirds of all naturally occurring antibiotics. Moreover, they can create a diverse array of chemical compounds with medical or agricultural applications, including anticancer, antiparasitic, and antibacterial agents. This review aims to provide an overview of the prominent biotechnological domains in which actinobacteria and their metabolites demonstrate noteworthy applicability. The graphical abstract provides a preview of the primary sections covered in this review. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the biotechnological applications and metabolites of actinobacteria, highlighting their potential for patent innovations.

Energy expenditure of golf range practice: A beta investigation

How does Energy Expenditure (EE) in golf practice compare to golf play? Golf has demonstrated a moderate level of EE during play, especially when walking, which can contribute to health. Golf practice on the driving range has never been assessed. Can driving range practice qualify as meaningful exercise? Ten subjects regularly participating in golf performed two short-range/practice sessions while connected to a portable metabolic system to determine potential benefits. Data points were recorded and averaged for O2/L/min and converted to kcal per hour, oxygen consumption in VO2 ml/kg/min, and heart rate (HR). Subjects performed their regular physical warm-up routine and hit range balls using their standard progression of clubs and pace. Sessions ranged from 10-19 minutes, followed by a short break, with another session of the same time and progression. Using oxygen consumed to measure energy expenditure, the group averaged 3.5 kcal per minute for the first session/3.71 kcal per minute for the two sessions. MET values were 2.31/2.59, respectively, below the required 3.0 met level for moderate activity. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between subject weight and EE of p=0.0001. From this beta study, golf practice can contribute to overall health as part of a weekly exercise and recreation schedule. Further rigorous study is needed to explore this form of activity's quantity further.

Network structure and fluctuation data improve inference of metabolic interaction strengths with the inverse Jacobian

Based on high-throughput metabolomics data, the recently introduced inverse differential Jacobian algorithm can infer regulatory factors and molecular causality within metabolic networks close to steady-state. However, these studies assumed perturbations acting independently on each metabolite, corresponding to metabolic system fluctuations. In contrast, emerging evidence puts forward internal network fluctuations, particularly from gene expression fluctuations, leading to correlated perturbations on metabolites. Here, we propose a novel approach that exploits these correlations to quantify relevant metabolic interactions. By integrating enzyme-related fluctuations in the construction of an appropriate fluctuation matrix, we are able to exploit the underlying reaction network structure for the inverse Jacobian algorithm. We applied this approach to a model-based artificial dataset for validation, and to an experimental breast cancer dataset with two different cell lines. By highlighting metabolic interactions with significantly changed interaction strengths, the inverse Jacobian approach identified critical dynamic regulation points which are confirming previous breast cancer studies.

Myokines as a Factor of Physiological Inflammation

Currently, a new approach to the concept of “inflammation” has been formed. Increasing evidence indicates that cellular and molecular mediators of inflammation are involved in a wide range of biological processes, including tissue remodeling, metabolism, thermogenesis, and nervous system function. Given the diversity of biological processes involving inflammatory signals and cells, the traditional view of inflammation as a response to infection or tissue damage is incomplete, since inflammation can occur in the absence of these triggers. The review examines the effects caused by myokines produced during physical activity. It can be argued that these proteins are involved in ensuring adaptive changes, pro- and anti-inflammatory reactions to maintain homeostasis, and their overall effect can be characterized as physiological inflammation. At the same time, the mechanisms of transcription activation of many myokines differ significantly from similar mechanisms in cells of the immune system. This suggests that myokines can be considered as factors of physiological inflammation, which is not a pathological process, but ensures normal physiological reactions during physical activity. A hypothesis has been formulated about the role of myokines as factors stimulating the development of physiological inflammation. The effects caused by myokines produced during physical activity are involved in ensuring adaptive changes, anti-inflammatory reactions and maintaining homeostasis. Physiological inflammation can be considered as, in some way, an antagonist of pathological inflammation; it is due to this antagonism that many positive effects of physical activity, including metabolic disorders, can be realized.

God-free energy and evolutionary epistemology

This article investigates the reasons behind interwovenness and the profound philosophical thought that a God must be a part of the brain’s predictive processing entropies. The article accomplishes this by utilising South African theologian Wentzel J. van Huyssteen’s epistemological consciousness as an added benefit in examining our planet and, as a result, our cosmic universe, which transcends human God notions. This article caters for academics interested in the science-religion dispute on the existence of life inside the integrated metaphysical God. In this article, the connection between metaphysicality, free energy and Van Huyssteen’s epistemic consciousness is used as metaphor(s) in our estimates of what life is, which includes a God, as it will show that we as humans can reasonably expect to exist beyond this (the) Earth. It is therefore the primary question that resonates with the whole of the universe as well as the minute fragmentation that is humans, only recently identified as sapiens, that sigh, or even better, long for a God, that encloses the question of: are we as humans made of, organs, metabolic systems, cells, atoms, memories or passions, that are a plausible mixture of an effective cognitive and affective cocktail, so to speak?Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article proposes a dual paradox that theology and science are not only in opposition yet are, juxtaposing (therefore integrating) one another. They share a very astute understanding of free energy from both a mathematical (natural sciences) and philosophical (theological) evolutionary epistemological perspective.

Magnesium and Zinc as Vital Micronutrients Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery – a Review

Introduction and Aim of the ReviewMagnesium and zinc are vital for cellular metabolism and maintaining homeostasis, playing a particularly significant role for athletes. Magnesium, which is largely stored in bones and muscles, is essential for protein synthesis. Zinc, a critical trace element found in muscle and bone tissue, participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, acts as an antioxidant and making both minerals crucial for physical performance. This study aims to explore the physiological role of magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) in the context of athletic performance and to examine their impact on energy metabolism, muscle function, protein synthesis and potential benefits of Mg and Zn supplementation for improving athletic outcomes and post-exercise recovery. MethodsA comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted through a thorough search of the PubMed database to explore the latest findings on the utility of magnesium and zinc in sports. Only articles in English were considered. Current KnowledgeThe review results indicate that Mg and Zn play critical roles in energy metabolism, muscle and immune system health. Mg deficiency can impair muscle function and reduce endurance, while its supplementation supports muscle relaxation, cardiovascular health, and respiratory efficiency. Although required in small amounts, Zn is indispensable for enzymatic activity, protein synthesis, hormonal balance, and muscle recovery, making it vital for post-exercise recovery and immune response modulation. ConclusionsAvailable data suggest that Mg and Zn supplementation may positively influence athletic performance, energy metabolism, and recovery post-exercise, though further research is needed to establish specific supplementation guidelines. This review provides a foundation for developing supplementation strategies aimed at enhancing athletic performance and supporting healthy recovery.

Late-gestation maternal undernutrition induces circulatory redistribution while preserving uteroplacental function independent of fetal glycaemic state.

Programming effects of maternal undernutrition on fetal metabolic and cardiovascular systems are well elucidated, yet a detailed characterization of maternal haemodynamics is not available. This study used comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging to quantify maternal haemodynamics after 29days (111-140 days) of late-gestation undernutrition (LGUN) in pregnant sheep. Control ewes received 100% of metabolizable energy requirements (MERs, n=15), whereas LGUN ewes were globally nutrient restricted to 50% MER (n=18), with a subset of fetuses undergoing continuous glucose infusion (LGUN+G, n=6/18). Ewes underwent CMR (138-140 days' gestation), and placental tissue was collected the next day. Ewes in both LGUN groups had reduced body weight and mean blood glucose concentration across gestation. Ventricular dimensions were lower in both LGUN groups. Uterine artery blood flow (QUtA) was elevated in the LGUN group compared with controls, whereas peripheral blood flow was reduced and further diminished in LGUN+G. Maternal weight change correlated with all haemodynamic parameters across all groups. Uteroplacental oxygen and glucose delivery were increased in LGUN compared to control ewes, whereas uteroplacental oxygen consumption was preserved. LGUN did not impact placental or fetal weight, and markers of brain-sparing physiology were absent. Placental expression of insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2) and their receptors, glucose, fatty acid (FA) or amino acid transporters and markers of angiogenesis was not impacted. FA transporter expression was positively correlated with QUtA, and FA binding protein correlated negatively with maternal weight change. Maternal cardiovascular adaptations in response to LGUN manifest as preservation of placental growth and function, thereby preserving fetal growth. KEY POINTS: Maternal undernutrition during pregnancy alters fetal metabolic and cardiovascular physiology, but little is known about alterations in maternal haemodynamics. Late-gestation undernutrition (LGUN) and LGUN+G redirected maternal blood flow from the periphery to the uteroplacental unit, concomitantly increasing the delivery of glucose and oxygen to the uteroplacental unit. Substrate transporter expression and uteroplacental oxygen consumption were preserved in LGUN and LGUN+G, suggesting prioritization of the placenta. This study is the first to report detailed maternal haemodynamics in the setting of maternal undernutrition, where placental growth and function were maintained, ultimately preserving fetal oxygen metabolism and growth.

Exploring the metabolic daylength measurement system: implications for photoperiodic growth.

Photoperiod is an environmental signal that varies predictably across the year. Therefore, the duration of sunlight available for photosynthesis and in turn the ability of plants to accumulate carbon resources also fluctuates across the year. To adapt to these variations in photoperiod, the metabolic daylength measurement (MDLM) system measures the photosynthetic period rather than the absolute photoperiod, translating it into seasonal gene expression changes linked to photoperiodic growth. In this Tansley Insight, we briefly summarize the current understanding of the MDLM system and highlight gaps in our knowledge. Given the system's critical role in seasonal growth, understanding the MDLM system is essential for enhancing plant adaptation to different photoperiods and optimizing agricultural production.

RNA-Seq Profiling in Chicken Spleen and Thymus Infected with Newcastle Disease Virus of Varying Virulence.

Newcastle disease virus (NDV), known as avian paramyxovirus-1, poses a significant threat to poultry production worldwide. Vaccination currently stands as the most effective strategy for Newcastle disease control. However, the mesogenic vaccine strain Mukteswar has been observed to evolve into a velogenic variant JS/7/05/Ch during poultry immunization. Here, we aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying virulence enhancement of the two viruses. Pathogenically, JS/7/05/Ch mediated stronger virulence and pathogenicity in vivo compared to Mukteswar. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed 834 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), comprising 339 up-regulated and 495 down-regulated genes, in the spleen, and 716 DEGs, with 313 up-regulated and 403 down-regulated genes, in the thymus. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis indicated that these candidate targets primarily participated in cell and biological development, extracellular part and membrane composition, as well as receptor and binding activity. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis unveiled a substantial portion of candidate genes predominantly involved in cellular processes, environmental information processing, metabolism, and organismal systems. Additionally, five DEGs (TRAT1, JUP, LPAR4, CYB561A3, and CXCR5) were randomly identified through RNA-seq analysis and subsequently confirmed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The findings revealed a marked up-regulation in the expression levels of these DEGs induced by JS/7/05/Ch compared to Mukteswar, with CYB561A3 and CXCR5 exhibiting significant increases. The findings corroborated the sequencing accuracy, offering promising research directions. Taken together, we comprehensively evaluated transcriptomic alterations in chicken immune organs infected by NDV strains of diverse virulence. This study establishes a basis and direction for NDV virulence research.

Anticoagulation with warfarin for paediatric cardiac indications: a retrospective study.

Warfarin is used as anticoagulation for children for a wide range of cardiac indications but carries the disadvantage of requiring international normalised ratio monitoring and dose adjustment. Management of warfarin therapy is challenging due to its narrow therapeutic window and is further complicated in children by dietary changes, frequent illnesses, and developing systems of metabolism and haemostasis.A retrospective review was performed of patients' medical records to assess the indication for warfarin use, percentage of international normalised ratio values in target range (%ITR), and frequency of phlebotomy.Twenty-six patients were identified. The most common indication for warfarin use was in patients post-total cavo-pulmonary connection (n = 19, 73%). We demonstrated a variability in duration of warfarin therapy following total cavo-pulmonary connection (median of 11.1 months). Nineteen (73%) patients had used the CoaguChek machine for home measurement of international normalised ratio. The median frequency of phlebotomy for all indications was once every 10 days, and the median %ITR was 55.4 % (29.7-86.4%). Of note, the percentage under target range in the patients with mechanical mitral (n = 2) and aortic valves (n = 1) was found to be 23% and 33%, respectively.These data demonstrate a high frequency of international normalised ratio values outside of the target range as seen in previous studies of warfarin in children. This necessitates frequent phlebotomy and dose changes, which can have a significant effect on the quality of life of these patients and their families highlighting the need to focus on quality improvement in the area of anticoagulation in paediatric cardiac patients.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Pediatrics and Adolescent Women: A Systematic Review of Sex-Based Differences Between Girls and Boys.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is marked by repetitive occurrences of upper airway (UA) obstruction during sleep. Morbidities impacting the metabolic, cardiovascular (CV) and neurological systems are correlated with OSA. Only a few studies have described the existence of different characteristics depending on sex and, to date, the girl phenotype in OSA pediatrics is not well known. The objective of this systematic review is to identify the specific phenotype of OSA in pediatric and adolescent females compared to males. A systematic review was performed. The terms "pediatric sleep apnea" and "sex differences" were used to look for publications using PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science. (1) peer-reviewed journal articles written in English; (2) investigations conducted on individuals diagnosed with OSA; and (3) investigations providing information about sex differences. (1) studies carried out with individuals aged 18 years and older; (2) studies involving a sample size of fewer than 10 patients; and (3) editorials, letters and case reports. Fifteen studies were included and classified in sections related to sex-based differences. Limited information related to sex-based OSA differences in the pediatric population exists. These differences are conditioned by hormonal status, and are minimal in the premenarcheal period. Moreover, adolescent women present a lower prevalence of obesity and craniofacial alterations, lower OSA severity related to higher UA area and earlier tonsil regression. Hyperactivity is more frequent in boys. Some studies pointed to a higher risk of high diastolic blood pressure in girls than in boys.

Abstract 4117640: Thirty-Year Prevalence and Prognosis of the Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome in U.S. Females and Males

Background: The American Heart Association recently published guidelines on how to clinically identify and categorize individuals with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. The extent to which CKM syndrome prevalence and prognosis differ by sex remain unknown. This study aimed to examine the impact of sex on trends in prevalence over 30 years and long-term prognosis of the CKM syndrome in the US. Methods: We analyzed nationally representative NHANES 1988-2018 data collected from 33,868 US adults (age ≥20 years) who were under surveillance for all-cause mortality through December 31, 2019. We examined sex-specific prevalence of CKM syndrome, and sex-specific CKM associations with all-cause mortality. Results: Of the 33,868 adults studied, the mean±SD age was 48.4±18.3 years with 52% female and 56% non-White. Overall prevalence of CKM syndrome increased steadily from 1988 to 2018 in both sexes, with a larger temporal rise in prevalent Stage 3 CKM seen for males (from 18.9% to 22.4%) compared to females (from 13.9% to 15.2%) ( Figure 1 ). Over a median follow-up of 13.3 years, there were 8745 deaths. In multivariable cox-regression analysis, worsening CKM severity was associated with all-cause mortality (P&lt;0.001 for both sexes), with greater magnitudes of risk seen in females (HR=1.24 to 3.33) compared to males (HR=0.85 to 2.60) across all stages (LRT χ 2 =19.0, P interaction &lt;0.001); results were similar for cardiovascular mortality (LRT χ 2 =22.3, P interaction &lt;0.001) ( Table 1 ). Conclusions: Females, compared with males, exhibited a lower prevalence of CKM stage 3 but experienced excess mortality risk across the spectrum of multi-system CKM dysfunction. These findings underscore the importance of identifying mechanisms underlying joint cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic systems pathophysiology to close a potentially widening sex disparities gap in multi-organ disease risk.

Glyphosate contact alters the expression of genes in the head of africanized Apis mellifera bees

The increase in the world population results in a greater demand for food, intensifying the dependence on pesticides use. Glyphosate, a pesticide widely used in crops, can contaminate resources collected by bees. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the transcriptome of the head of Africanized Apis mellifera bees during the foraging phase to determine whether contact with the herbicide glyphosate, in lethal and sublethal doses, causes changes in the gene expression profile. For this, 180 marked bees were collected from their hives, aged 21 days, and distributed into three treatment groups: 1) bees in contact with the lethal dose of glyphosate (255.73 µg/bee); 2) bees in contact with the sublethal dose of glyphosate (2.5573 µg/bee); 3) control group with distilled water. Transcriptome analysis was performed on 12 bees from each treatment after one and four hours of exposure. The results show that one hour of contact with glyphosate resulted in 57 genes presenting differential expression in relation to the control (11 lethal and 53 sublethal), interfering in the signaling, communication and metabolism processes, while four hours of exposure, 38 genes (32 lethal and 11 sublethal) related, mainly, to the stimulation of the immune response. In summary, glyphosate affects the gene expression of honey bees during the foraging phase, at both doses, resulting in negative effects on behavior, metabolism and immune system, which compromises the health, activity and development of the colonies, also compromising the process of pollination.