Biology

16 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determination of Atmospheric Pollen Grains by Volumetric Method in Sarıkamış District (Kars-Türkiye)

by Salih Akpınar and Mustafa Kemal Altunoğlu

Biology 2024, 13(7), 475; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070475 - 26 Jun 2024

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Atmospheric pollen was investigated using the Lanzoni VPSS 2000 (Lanzoni, Bologna- Italy) device for 2 years between 2012 and 2013 in the Sarıkamış district of Kars province, one of the highest regions of Türkiye. A total of 37,909 pollen grains were collected: 15,298 [...] Read more.

Atmospheric pollen was investigated using the Lanzoni VPSS 2000 (Lanzoni, Bologna- Italy) device for 2 years between 2012 and 2013 in the Sarıkamış district of Kars province, one of the highest regions of Türkiye. A total of 37,909 pollen grains were collected: 15,298 pollen grains in 2012 and 22,611 pollen grains in 2013. Out of 43 identified taxa, 21 were arboreal, and 22 were non-arboreal. Pollen from arboreal plants accounted for 36.34% (13,778 pollen grains) of the total, while pollen from non-arboreal plants accounted for 63.56% (24,095 pollen grains). Additionally, 0.10% (36 pollen grains) belonged to unidentified pollen. The most frequent arboreal plant pollen in the Sarıkamış atmosphere were Pinaceae (29.79%), Cupressaceae/Taxaceae (2.54%), and Morus (1.30%). The main non-arboreal plant pollen in the atmosphere of Sarıkamış were Poaceae (44.60%), Artemisia (2.98%), Amaranthaceae (2.79%), Rumex (2.41%), Urticaceae (2.33%), Plantago (2.19%), and Boraginaceae (1.40%). The maximum pollen concentration was observed in June and was associated with the pollination of Pinaceae and Poaceae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

16 pages, 846 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Avoids Deterioration of Transport Water Quality, Regulates Plasma Biochemical Indices, Energy Metabolism, and Antioxidant Capacity of Tawny Puffer (Takifugui flavidus) under Transport Stress

by Xiaowen Yu, Wenjie Hou and Lixia Xiao

Biology 2024, 13(7), 474; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070474 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Live fish transportation is crucial for managing aquaculture but can pose health risks to fish due to stressors encountered during transportation. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the central nervous system and is considered to exhibit [...] Read more.

Live fish transportation is crucial for managing aquaculture but can pose health risks to fish due to stressors encountered during transportation. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the central nervous system and is considered to exhibit anti-stress effects. This study aims to investigate the effects of GABA on the transport water quality, plasma biochemical indices, energy metabolism, and antioxidant capacity of tawny puffer (Takifugu flavidus) under transport stress. Tawny puffer were pretreated by immersing in aquariums containing GABA (final concentrations at 0, 5, 50, and 150 mg/L) seawater for 3 days; then, simulated transport was conducted using oxygen-filled polyethylene bags containing the same concentration of GABA seawater as the pretreatment period. Water samples, plasma, and liver were collected after 0, 6, and 12 h of transport. The results revealed that with the prolongation of transportation time, the control group’s water quality deteriorated, stress-related plasma biochemical indices increased, glycolytic substrate contents decreased, glycolytic enzyme activities and product contents increased, and aerobic metabolic enzyme activities exhibited initial increases followed by declines, ATPase activities decreased, antioxidant enzyme activities decreased, and the lipid peroxidation marker contents increased. It is noteworthy that GABA treatment could avoid water quality deterioration during transportation, inhibit an elevation in stress-related biochemical indicators, regulate energy metabolism, and reduce oxidative damage in tawny puffer, especially at 50 and 150 mg/L concentrations. In summary, GABA treatment can effectively alleviate the transport stress of tawny puffer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biology)

16 pages, 3773 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking Synergistic Hepatoprotection: Dapagliflozin and Silymarin Combination Therapy Modulates Nuclear Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2/Heme Oxygenase-1 Pathway in Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats

by Shakta Mani Satyam, Laxminarayana Kurady Bairy, Abdul Rehman, Mohamed Attia, Layth Ahmed, Karam Emad, Yusuf Jaafer and Abdelrehman Bahaaeldin

Biology 2024, 13(7), 473; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070473 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

This study was aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective potential of dapagliflozin and silymarin alone and in combination to combat carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatotoxicity and the anticipated mechanisms. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five different groups. All the experimental [...] Read more.

This study was aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective potential of dapagliflozin and silymarin alone and in combination to combat carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatotoxicity and the anticipated mechanisms. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five different groups. All the experimental animals except the normal control (Group I) were administered CCl₄. Additionally, Groups II, III, IV, and V were treated with gum acacia, silymarin, dapagliflozin, and a combination of dapagliflozin and silymarin, respectively, for 14 days. Dapagliflozin, silymarin alone, and in combination, significantly reduced (p < 0.05) serum levels of ALT, AST, AST:ALT ratio, and total bilirubin compared to CCl₄-intoxicated control rats. There was a notable reduction (p < 0.05) observed in the levels of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, nitrites, and 4-hydroxynonenal, accompanied by an elevation in catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in liver homogenates of the groups treated with dapagliflozin, silymarin alone, and in combination, as compared to the CCl₄-intoxicated control group. Dapagliflozin in combination with silymarin showed a synergistic hepatoprotective effect. Our study reveals the profound hepatoprotective potential of dapagliflozin alone and in combination with silymarin in CCl₄-intoxicated Wistar rats by modulating the Nrf2 and HO-1 signaling pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Models in Toxicology)

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15 pages, 6018 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Curcumin-Rich Diet Mitigates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) by Attenuating Fat Accumulation and Improving Insulin Sensitivity in Aged Female Mice under Nutritional Stress

by Gopal Lamichhane, Da-Yeon Lee, Rienna Franks, Femi Olawale, Jong-Beom Jin, Josephine M. Egan and Yoo Kim

Biology 2024, 13(7), 472; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070472 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: The high incidence of metabolic syndrome in the elderly poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for interventions tailored to geriatric patients. Given the limited focus on females in previous studies, this research aimed to evaluate the effects [...] Read more.

Background: The high incidence of metabolic syndrome in the elderly poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for interventions tailored to geriatric patients. Given the limited focus on females in previous studies, this research aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary curcumin on obesity and NAFLD outcomes in naturally aged (18-month-old) female mice. Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice aged 18 months were fed a normal chow diet (NCD) and a HFHSD, with or without curcumin (0.4% w/w), for an 8-week period. Parameters included food intake, body weight, insulin tolerance test (ITT), glucose tolerance test (GTT), percentage fat mass, hepatic triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, and a histological examination for NAFLD detection, qPCR, and immunoblotting analyses were performed. Results: The cumulative body weight gain after 8 weeks in the aged female mice supplemented with curcumin and fed an HFHSD was significantly lower (10.84 ± 1.09 g) compared to those fed a HFHSD alone (15.28 ± 1.26 g). Curcumin supplementation also resulted in reduced total body fat (HFHSD group 50.83 ± 1.71% vs. HFHSD+CUR 41.46 ± 3.21%), decreased epidydimal fat mass (HFHSD: 3.79 ± 0.29 g vs. HFHSD+CUR: 2.66 ± 0.30 g), and repaired adipogenic signaling in the white adipose tissue. Furthermore, curcumin lowered triglyceride and cholesterol deposition in the liver, preventing hepatic steatosis and improving hepatic insulin sensitivity. Conclusions: Curcumin demonstrates the ability to ameliorate the deleterious effects of HFHSD in aged female mice by reducing body fat composition, modulating adipogenic signaling in the white adipose tissue, and improving insulin homeostasis and non-alcoholic fatty deposition in the liver. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Foods: Bioactivity, Bioavailability, and Biological Characteristics)

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15 pages, 2953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bone Incorporation of a Poly (L-Lactide-Co-D, L-Lactide) Internal Fixation Device in a Rat’s Tibia: Microtomographic, Confocal LASER, and Histomorphometric Analysis

by Harrisson Lucho Mamani-Valeriano, Nelson Padilha Silva, Heloisa Helena Nímia, Maísa Pereira-Silva, Maria Eduarda de Freitas Santana Oliveira, Letícia Gabriella de Souza Rodrigues, Paulo Matheus Honda Tavares, Henrique Hadad, Laís Kawamata de Jesus, Ana Flávia Piquera Santos, Débora de Barros Barbosa, Pier Paolo Poli, Carlo Maiorana, Paulo Sergio Perri de Carvalho, Roberta Okamoto and Francisley Ávila Souza

Biology 2024, 13(7), 471; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070471 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

This study evaluated the bone incorporation process of a screw-shaped internal fixation device made of poly (L-lactide-co-D, L-lactide) (PLDLLA). Thirty-two male Wistar rats received 32 fixation devices (2 mm × 6 mm) randomly assigned to either the right or left tibia and one [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the bone incorporation process of a screw-shaped internal fixation device made of poly (L-lactide-co-D, L-lactide) (PLDLLA). Thirty-two male Wistar rats received 32 fixation devices (2 mm × 6 mm) randomly assigned to either the right or left tibia and one implant in each animal. After 7, 14, 28, and 42 days, the rats were euthanized and the specimens were subjected to microtomographic computed tomography (microCT) and histomorphometric analyses to evaluate bone interface contact (BIC%) and new bone formation (NBF%) in cortical and cancellous bone areas. The animals euthanized on days 28 and 42 were treated with calcein and alizarin red, and confocal LASER microscopy was performed to determine the mineral apposition rate (MAR). Micro-CT revealed a higher percentage of bone volume (p < 0.006), trabecular separation (p < 0.001), and BIC in the cortical (p < 0.001) and cancellous (p = 0.003) areas at 28 and 42 days than at 7 and 14 days. The cortical NBF at 42 days was greater than that at 7 and 14 days (p = 0.022). No statistically significant differences were observed in cancellous NBF or MAR at 28 and 42 days. Based on these results, it can be seen that the PLDLLA internal fixation device is biocompatible and allows new bone formation around the screw thread. Full article

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16 pages, 2960 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Various Inoculation Methods on the Effect of Beauveria bassiana on the Plant Growth of Kiwi and on Halyomorpha halys Infestation: A Two-Year Field Study

by Vasileios Papantzikos, Spiridon Mantzoukas, Panagiotis A. Eliopoulos, Dimitrios Servis, Stergios Bitivanos and George Patakioutas

Biology 2024, 13(7), 470; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070470 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

In this study, the bioinsecticidal action of a commercial formulation with Beauveria bassiana was evaluated on the new sucking pest in Greece: Halyomorpha halys, of the kiwifruit. Additionally, the biostimulant potential of the same formulation was studied on kiwi growth. The application [...] Read more.

In this study, the bioinsecticidal action of a commercial formulation with Beauveria bassiana was evaluated on the new sucking pest in Greece: Halyomorpha halys, of the kiwifruit. Additionally, the biostimulant potential of the same formulation was studied on kiwi growth. The application was performed in three different ways in a commercial field of kiwi crop A. deliciosa “Hayward” field in Arta, Greece: (i) trunk spray, (ii) root injection, and (iii) trunk inoculation. During the 2 years seasons of the experiment, weekly measurements of the H. halys population were determined. The insect is sucking plants nutrients; therefore, the total chlorophyll content in the leaves of the treatments was recorded weekly. In addition, the percentage of infested kiwifruits was estimated at the end of the experiment. Moreover, to study the biostimulant potential of the formulation, growth measurements on stems and leaves were performed during the experiment. Finally, at the kiwi harvest point, the fruit biomass, dimensions, and weight were obtained, and the leaves’ proline content was evaluated. The results encourage us to further study this EPF formulation as the bioinsecticidal effect was noted by the reduction in H. halys population, and biostimulant action was perceived by the higher plant biomass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Pests and Their Interactions with Pathogenic Microorganisms)

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8 pages, 990 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Database Bias in the Detection of Interdomain Horizontal Gene Transfer Events in Pezizomycotina

by Kevin Aguirre-Carvajal, Cristian R. Munteanu and Vinicio Armijos-Jaramillo

Biology 2024, 13(7), 469; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070469 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a widely acknowledged phenomenon in prokaryotes for generating genetic diversity. However, the impact of this process in eukaryotes, particularly interdomain HGT, is a topic of debate. Although there have been observed biases in interdomain HGT detection, little exploration [...] Read more.

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a widely acknowledged phenomenon in prokaryotes for generating genetic diversity. However, the impact of this process in eukaryotes, particularly interdomain HGT, is a topic of debate. Although there have been observed biases in interdomain HGT detection, little exploration has been conducted on the effects of imbalanced databases. In our study, we conducted experiments to assess how different databases affect the detection of interdomain HGT using proteomes from the Pezizomycotina fungal subphylum as our focus group. Our objective was to simulate the database imbalance commonly found in public biological databases, where bacterial and eukaryotic sequences are unevenly represented, and demonstrate that an increase in uploaded eukaryotic sequences leads to a decrease in predicted HGTs. For our experiments, four databases with varying proportions of eukaryotic sequences but consistent proportions of bacterial sequences were utilized. We observed a significant reduction in detected interdomain HGT candidates as the proportion of eukaryotes increased within the database. Our data suggest that the imbalance in databases bias the interdomain HGT detection and highlights challenges associated with confirming the presence of interdomain HGT among Pezizomycotina fungi and potentially other groups within Eukarya. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)

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14 pages, 2151 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protector Role of Cx30.2 in Pancreatic β-Cell against Glucotoxicity-Induced Apoptosis

by Daniel Ortega-Cuellar, Ignacio González-Sánchez, Gabriela Piñón-Zárate, Marco A. Cerbón, Víctor De la Rosa, Yuliana Franco-Juárez, Andrés Castell-Rodríguez, León D. Islas and Cristina Coronel-Cruz

Biology 2024, 13(7), 468; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070468 - 25 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Glucotoxicity may exert its deleterious effects on pancreatic β-cell function via a myriad of mechanisms, leading to impaired insulin secretion and, eventually, type 2 diabetes. β-cell communication requires gap junction channels to be present among these cells. Gap junctions are constituted by transmembrane [...] Read more.

Glucotoxicity may exert its deleterious effects on pancreatic β-cell function via a myriad of mechanisms, leading to impaired insulin secretion and, eventually, type 2 diabetes. β-cell communication requires gap junction channels to be present among these cells. Gap junctions are constituted by transmembrane proteins of the connexins (Cxs) family. Two Cx genes have been identified in β cells, Cx36 and Cx30.2. We have found evidence that the glucose concentration on its own is sufficient to regulate Cx30.2 gene expression in mouse islets. In this work, we examine the involvement of the Cx30.2 protein in the survival of β cells (RIN-m5F). Methods: RIN-m5F cells were cultured in 5 mM D-glucose (normal) or 30 mM D-glucose (high glucose) for 24 h. Cx30.2 siRNAs was used to downregulate Cx30.2 expression. Apoptosis was measured by means of TUNEL, an annexin V staining method, and the cleaved form of the caspase-3 protein was determined using Western blot. Results: High glucose did not induce apoptosis in RIN-m5F β cells after 24 h; interestingly, high glucose increased the Cx30.2 total protein levels. Moreover, this work found that the downregulation of Cx30.2 expression in high glucose promoted apoptosis in RIN-m5F cells. Conclusion: The data suggest that the upregulation of Cx30.2 protects β cells from hyperglycemia-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, Cx30.2 may be a promising avenue of therapeutic investigation for the treatment of glucose metabolic disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Self-Destruction (Programmed Cell Death), Immunonutrition and Metabolism)

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11 pages, 1006 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bone Regeneration and Polyetheretherketone Implants in Maxillo-Facial Surgery and Neurosurgery: A Multidisciplinary Study

by Mattia Todaro, Gianmarco Saponaro, Federico Perquoti, Giulio Gasparini, Francesco Signorelli, Tommaso Tartaglione and Alessandro Moro

Biology 2024, 13(7), 467; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070467 - 25 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) in the last few years has emerged as an exceedingly promising material for craniofacial defects due to its biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, its utilization remains controversial due to its inertness and low osteoinductivity. This study aimed to investigate the postoperative [...] Read more.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) in the last few years has emerged as an exceedingly promising material for craniofacial defects due to its biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, its utilization remains controversial due to its inertness and low osteoinductivity. This study aimed to investigate the postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing maxillo-facial and neurosurgical procedures with PEEK implants. The focus is on evaluating bone regrowth on the surface and edges of the implant, periosteal reactions, and implant positioning. A retrospective analysis of 12 maxillo-facial surgery patients and 10 neurosurgery patients who received PEEK implants was conducted. CT scans performed at least one year post operation were examined for bone regrowth, periosteal reactions, and implant positioning. In maxillo-facial cases, the analysis included mandibular angle and fronto-orbital reconstruction, while neurosurgical cases involved cranioplasty. In maxillofacial surgery, 11 out of 12 patients showed radiological evidence of bone regrowth around PEEK implants, with favorable outcomes observed in craniofacial reconstruction. In neurosurgery, 9 out of 10 patients exhibited minimal or none bone regrowth, while one case demonstrated notable bone regeneration beneath the PEEK implant interface. The study highlights the importance of implant design and patient-specific factors in achieving successful outcomes, providing valuable insights for future implant-based procedures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multidisciplinary Insights on Bone Healing (Volume II))

12 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Excess Iodine Consumption Induces Oxidative Stress and Pancreatic Damage Independently of Chemical Form in Male Wistar Rats: Participation of PPAR-γ and C/EBP-β

by Cristian Arbez-Evangelista, Omar Arroyo-Xochihua, Ilse Haide Ortega-Ibarra, Edú Ortega-Ibarra, Yeimy Mar De León-Ramírez, Estela Cuevas-Romero and Omar Arroyo-Helguera

Biology 2024, 13(7), 466; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070466 - 25 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: Human beings consume different chemical forms of iodine in their diet. These are transported by different mechanisms in the cell. The forms of iodine can be part of thyroid hormones, bind to lipids, be an antioxidant, or be an oxidant, depending on [...] Read more.

Background: Human beings consume different chemical forms of iodine in their diet. These are transported by different mechanisms in the cell. The forms of iodine can be part of thyroid hormones, bind to lipids, be an antioxidant, or be an oxidant, depending on their chemical form. The excessive consumption of iodine has been associated with pancreatic damage and diabetes mellitus type 2, but the association between disease and the chemical form consumed in the diet is unknown. This research analyzes the effect of excessive iodine consumption as Lugol (molecular iodine/potassium iodide solution) and iodate on parameters of pancreatic function, thyroid and lipid profiles, antioxidant and oxidant status, the expression of IR/Akt/P-Akt/GLUT4, and transcription factors PPAR-γ and CEBP-β. Methods: Three groups of Wistar rats were treated with 300 μg/L of iodine in drinking water: (1) control, (2) KIO₃, and (3) Lugol. Results: Lugol and KIO₃ consumption increased total iodine levels. Only KIO₃ increased TSH levels. Both induced high serum glucose levels and increased oxidative stress and pancreatic alpha-amylase activity. Insulin levels and antioxidant status decreased significantly. PPAR-γ and C/EBP-β mRNA expression increased. Conclusion: The pancreatic damage, hypertriglyceridemia, and oxidative stress were independent of the chemical form of iodine consumed. These effects depended on PPAR-γ, C/EBP-β, GLUT-4, and IR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)

21 pages, 744 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Cardiac Arrhythmia Risk after Anti-Cancer Drug Exposure and Related Disease Molecular Imaging Outlook: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Network Meta-Analysis

by Hongzheng Li, Wenwen Yang, Yuxuan Peng, Mingyan Huang, Feifei Liao, Aimei Lu, Zikai Yu and Xin Zhao

Biology 2024, 13(7), 465; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070465 - 25 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy is the main first-line treatment, but there is a problem of adverse reactions to systemic drugs. Chemotherapeutic agents may cause adverse effects on the body, influencing the prognosis. Whether the clinical application of anthracyclines is associated with an increased arrhythmic risk [...] Read more.

Background: Chemotherapy is the main first-line treatment, but there is a problem of adverse reactions to systemic drugs. Chemotherapeutic agents may cause adverse effects on the body, influencing the prognosis. Whether the clinical application of anthracyclines is associated with an increased arrhythmic risk remains controversial. To evaluate the arrhythmic risk of anthracyclines as a class, and the comparative risk for each drug, we conducted a systematic review, meta-analysis, and network meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched, up to March 2022, for randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case–control studies that investigated the association between anthracyclines treatment and the risk of arrhythmia. We followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines for data selection and extraction. Outcomes were pooled using fixed effects models in cohort studies and randomized controlled studies, and random models in single-arm studies. Direct and indirect comparisons in network meta-analysis were performed using frequentist methods. Results: In total, 4 cohort studies, 8 RCTs, and 18 single-arm studies were included in our analysis. Anthracyclines’ use was associated with a statistically significant 90% increase in the risk of arrhythmia (odds ratio [OR] 1.90; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.62–2.24) and a 114% increase in the risk of supraventricular arrhythmia (OR 2.14; 95% CI 1.18–3.89). And the single-arm studies also indicated that the incidence of arrhythmia rate is 20% and the 95% CI is 15/100-25/100. Epirubicin ranked most likely to have the highest risk of arrhythmia compared with non-anthracycline antineoplastic drugs in the analysis (OR 43.07 [95% CI 2.80–2105.83]) by network meta-analysis. Conclusions: Our findings show a significant association between anthracyclines’ use and an increased risk of arrhythmia, especially supraventricular arrhythmia. Epirubicin ranked with the highest probability of arrhythmia. These results indicated that cardiac rhythm should be strictly monitored during the application of anthracyclines in clinical practice, and a possible therapy for anthracycline-associated arrhythmia should be explored. Molecular imaging technology is an important means to study the mechanism of drug action on cardiac electrophysiology in the future. By imaging molecular targets in cardiac cells, the effects of drugs on the electrophysiological properties of cardiac cells can be understood, which provides information for the development of safer and more effective drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Molecular Imaging of Cancer)

17 pages, 5626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modification of Keratin Integrations and the Associated Morphogenesis in Frizzling Chicken Feathers

by Hao Wu, Tsao-Chi Chuang, Wan-Chi Liao, Kai-Jung Chi, Chen-Siang Ng, Hsu-Cheng Cheng and Wen-Tau Juan

Biology 2024, 13(7), 464; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070464 - 23 Jun 2024

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Abstract

The morphological and compositional complexities of keratinized components make feathers ingenious skin appendages adapted to diverse ecological needs. Frizzling feathers, characterized by their distinct curling phenotypes, offer a unique model to explore the intricate morphogenesis in developing a keratin-based bioarchitecture over a wide [...] Read more.

The morphological and compositional complexities of keratinized components make feathers ingenious skin appendages adapted to diverse ecological needs. Frizzling feathers, characterized by their distinct curling phenotypes, offer a unique model to explore the intricate morphogenesis in developing a keratin-based bioarchitecture over a wide range of morphospace. Here, we investigated the heterogeneous allocation of α- and β-keratins in flight feather shafts of homozygous and heterozygous frizzle chickens by analyzing the medulla–cortex integrations using quantitative morphology characterizations across scales. Our results reveal the intriguing construction of the frizzling feather shaft through the modified medulla development, leading to a perturbed balance of the internal biomechanics and, therefore, introducing the inherent natural frizzling compared to those from wild-type chickens. We elucidate how the localized developmental suppression of the α-keratin in the medulla interferes with the growth of the hierarchical keratin organization by changing the internal stress in the frizzling feather shaft. This research not only offers insights into the morphogenetic origin of the inherent bending of frizzling feathers but also facilitates our in-depth understanding of the developmental strategies toward the diverse integuments adapted for ecological needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Zoology)

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22 pages, 9601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spheroid Model of Mammary Tumor Cells: Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition and Doxorubicin Response

by Laura Lacerda Coelho, Matheus Menezes Vianna, Debora Moraes da Silva, Beatriz Matheus de Souza Gonzaga, Roberto Rodrigues Ferreira, Ana Carolina Monteiro, Adriana Cesar Bonomo, Pedro Paulo de Abreu Manso, Marcelo Alex de Carvalho, Fernando Regla Vargas and Luciana Ribeiro Garzoni

Biology 2024, 13(7), 463; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070463 - 21 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Therapeutic strategies to control tumors and metastasis are still challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid-type systems more accurately replicate the features of tumors in vivo, working as a better platform for performing therapeutic response analysis. [...] Read more.

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Therapeutic strategies to control tumors and metastasis are still challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid-type systems more accurately replicate the features of tumors in vivo, working as a better platform for performing therapeutic response analysis. This work aimed to characterize the epithelial–mesenchymal transition and doxorubicin (dox) response in a mammary tumor spheroid (MTS) model. We evaluated the doxorubicin treatment effect on MCF-7 spheroid diameter, cell viability, death, migration and proteins involved in the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Spheroids were also produced from tumors formed from 4T1 and 67NR cell lines. MTSs mimicked avascular tumor characteristics, exhibited adherens junction proteins and independently produced their own extracellular matrix. Our spheroid model supports the 3D culturing of cells isolated from mice mammary tumors. Through the migration assay, we verified a reduction in E-cadherin expression and an increase in vimentin expression as the cells became more distant from spheroids. Dox promoted cytotoxicity in MTSs and inhibited cell migration and the EMT process. These results suggest, for the first time, that this model reproduces aspects of the EMT process and describes the potential of dox in inhibiting the metastatic process, which can be further explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Biology)

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8 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heart Rate Responses of Post-Menopausal Women to Zumba Gold^® Classes

by Anne Delextrat, Clare Dorothy Shaw and Alba Solera-Sanchez

Biology 2024, 13(7), 462; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070462 - 21 Jun 2024

Viewed by 211

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the heart rate (HR) responses of post-menopausal women during Zumba Gold^® classes and to investigate the effects of body fat on HR responses. Twenty-three post-menopausal women (68.8 ± 7.2 years old; 160.0 ± 5.2 cm; 66.9 ± [...] Read more.

This study aimed to describe the heart rate (HR) responses of post-menopausal women during Zumba Gold^® classes and to investigate the effects of body fat on HR responses. Twenty-three post-menopausal women (68.8 ± 7.2 years old; 160.0 ± 5.2 cm; 66.9 ± 11.1 kg, 36.0 ± 9.9% body fat) participated. Baseline testing assessed participants’ anthropometric and fitness characteristics. Then, HR measurements were taken during four of their regular Zumba Gold^® classes, and average HR (HR_mean), as well as time spent in different HR intensity categories, was calculated. Linear regressions and t-tests were performed to analyse the data. The average HR during Zumba Gold^® classes was 70.2% of maximum HR. Women with lower body fat achieved a significantly higher HR_mean and spent less time at light to very light intensity and more time at moderate intensity compared to those with higher body fat. Body fat percentage and age were identified as determinants of time spent at moderate intensity. These findings suggest that Zumba Gold^® can be an effective exercise option for post-menopausal women aiming to meet the recommended daily exercise guidelines. Understanding the HR responses during Zumba Gold^® classes can aid in the development of safe and effective exercise prescriptions for this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology)

17 pages, 4197 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Contributions of Fibroblast Subpopulations to Intercellular Communication in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

by Tao Li, Matthew Salomon, Ling Shao, Atousa Khalatbari, Joshua D. Castle and Anisa Shaker

Biology 2024, 13(7), 461; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biology13070461 - 21 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Fibroblast heterogeneity remains undefined in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an allergic inflammatory disorder complicated by fibrosis. We utilized publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data (GSE201153) of EoE esophageal biopsies to identify fibroblast sub-populations, related transcriptomes, disease status-specific pathways and cell–cell interactions. IL13-treated fibroblast cultures [...] Read more.

Fibroblast heterogeneity remains undefined in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an allergic inflammatory disorder complicated by fibrosis. We utilized publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data (GSE201153) of EoE esophageal biopsies to identify fibroblast sub-populations, related transcriptomes, disease status-specific pathways and cell–cell interactions. IL13-treated fibroblast cultures were used to model active disease. At least 2 fibroblast populations were identified, F_A and F_B. Several genes including ACTA2 were more enriched in F_A. F_B percentage was greater than F_A and epithelial–mesenchymal transition upregulated in F_B vs. F_A in active and remission EoE. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition was also upregulated in F_B in active vs. remission EoE and TNF-α signaling via NFKB was downregulated in F_A. IL-13 treatment upregulated ECM-related genes more profoundly in ACTA2− fibroblasts than ACTA2+ myofibroblasts. After proliferating epithelial cells, F_B and F_A contributed most to cell–cell communication networks. ECM–Receptor interaction strength was stronger than secreted or cell–cell contact signaling in active vs. remission EoE and significant ligand–receptor pairs were driven mostly by F_B. This unbiased analysis identifies at least 2 fibroblast sub-populations in EoE in vivo, distinguished in part by ACTA2. Fibroblasts play a critical role in cell–cell interactions in EoE, most profoundly via ECM–receptor signaling via the F_B sub-group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)

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Biology, Volume 13, Issue 7 (July 2024) – 15 articles

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