PubMed

Front Pharmacol. 2025 Apr 28;16:1584065. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1584065. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTOBJECTIVES: Ensuring quality and authenticity of traditional medicines is crucial, particularly for multi-ingredient formulations like commercial Chinese polyherbal preparations (CCPPs). This study aims to authenticate Renshen Jianpi Wan (RSJPW), a classical CCPP composed of 11 prescribed botanical drugs, using DNA metabarcoding to overcome challenges in species-level identification of processed biological ingredients.METHODS: We analyzed 56 commercial RSJPW products from different manufacturers and production batches, alongside eight laboratory-prepared reference samples serving as authentic controls. A dual-marker protocol combining ITS2 and psbA-trnH regions was employed, with optimized DNA extraction and PCR protocols to mitigate degradation issues.RESULTS: Detection rates varied across samples, with the highest detection being 10 out of 11 prescribed ingredients in a single sample. The key fungal ingredient Poria cocos () was consistently undetectable, likely due to DNA degradation during processing and challenges in extracting fungal DNA from complex matrices. Multiple high-abundance non-prescribed species from Fabaceae, Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, and other families were frequently detected as potential contaminants.CONCLUSIONS: This study establishes a systematic framework for molecular authentication of complex herbal formulations, providing technical support for reliable identification of botanical drugs. While DNA metabarcoding offers valuable insights into CCPP composition, authentication of heavily processed ingredients remains a significant technical limitation. The integration with complementary analytical methods such as metabolomics could provide more comprehensive quality assessment in future studies, demonstrating the necessity of multi-analytical approaches in ensuring the authenticity of traditional medicine.PMID:40356966 | PMC:PMC12066679 | DOI:10.3389/fphar.2025.1584065

Front Immunol. 2025 Apr 28;16:1541728. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1541728. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is a common and chronic autoimmune disease. Recent evidence indicates that serum metabolites and dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota are associated with AIT, with the underlying mechanism involving the apoptosis of thyroid follicular epithelial cells. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese therapy, has demonstrated potential regulatory effects on various immune-related diseases. Clinical symptoms in AIT patients have shown improvement following acupuncture intervention. However, the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects remain poorly understood.METHODS: In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of acupuncture (Acu) treatment in rats with established experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) and evaluated the relationship between microbiota and serum metabolites after Acu treatment. After six weeks of acupuncture and Selenium yeast intervention (used as a positive control), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to employed to assess the expressions of serum thyroid function and inflammatory markers. Pathological changes in the thyroid gland were observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining and electron microscopy. Thyroid apoptosis was evaluated through TUNEL staining, immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Additionally, changes in intestinal microbiota and serum metabolic profile were analyzed by 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) sequencing and LC-MS metabolomics, aiming to identify potential therapeutic targets for acupuncture intervention in AIT.RESULTS: The results revealed that Acu could effectively improve thyroid dysfunction and histopathological changes in EAT rats. Following Acu treatment, the content of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) increased, while the levels of Bax and the proportion of cleaved caspase-3 in thyroid tissue decreased. This may be associated with the amelioration of intestinal microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic disorders in EAT rats. Acu mitigated EAT-induced metabolic disorders by regulating the metabolism of palmitoleic acid, and adjusted intestinal microbiota dysbiosis by increasing the abundance of Prevotella. Furthermore, the microbiota (Prevotella) and metabolites (Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, Tetradecanedioic acid) may serve as co-targets for both Acu and Selenium yeast treatment in EAT.DISCUSSION: Acu improves the apoptosis of thyroid follicular epithelial cells in rats in EAT model, and its mechanism may be related to intestinal microbiota and metabolism.PMID:40356922 | PMC:PMC12066539 | DOI:10.3389/fimmu.2025.1541728

Front Immunol. 2025 Apr 28;16:1572927. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1572927. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Neutrophils are highly abundant innate immune cells that are constantly produced from myeloid progenitors in the bone marrow. Differentiated neutrophils can perform an arsenal of effector functions critical for host defense. This study aims to quantitatively understand neutrophil mitochondrial metabolism throughout differentiation and activation, and to elucidate the impact of mitochondrial metabolism on neutrophil functions.METHODS: To study metabolic remodeling throughout neutrophil differentiation, murine ER-Hoxb8 myeloid progenitor-derived neutrophils and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neutrophils were assessed as models. To study the metabolic remodeling upon neutrophil activation, differentiated ER-Hoxb8 neutrophils and primary human neutrophils were activated with various stimuli, including ionomycin, monosodium urate crystals, and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Characterization of cellular metabolism by isotopic tracing, extracellular flux analysis, metabolomics, and fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy revealed dynamic changes in mitochondrial metabolism.RESULTS: As neutrophils mature, mitochondrial metabolism decreases drastically, energy production is offloaded from oxidative phosphorylation, and glucose oxidation through the TCA cycle is substantially reduced. Nonetheless, mature neutrophils retain the capacity for mitochondrial metabolism. Upon stimulation with certain stimuli, TCA cycle is rapidly activated. Mitochondrial pyruvate carrier inhibitors reduce this re-activation of the TCA cycle and inhibit the release of neutrophil extracellular traps. Treatment with these inhibitors also impacts neutrophil redox status, migration, and apoptosis without significantly changing overall bioenergetics.CONCLUSIONS: Together, these results demonstrate that mitochondrial metabolism is dynamically remodeled and plays a significant role in neutrophils. Furthermore, these findings point to the therapeutic potential of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier inhibitors in a range of conditions where dysregulated neutrophil response drives inflammation and contributes to pathology.PMID:40356902 | PMC:PMC12066771 | DOI:10.3389/fimmu.2025.1572927

Front Pediatr. 2025 Apr 28;13:1530063. doi: 10.3389/fped.2025.1530063. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (ACEi) which is widely used in the management of (paediatric) hypertension and heart failure (HF). There is a significant interindividual variability in the patient's response to enalapril that is not completely understood. Therefore, we aimed to examine the potential of metabolic profiling for stratifying paediatric patients with HF due to congenital heart disease (CHD) in terms of treatment response to enalapril. Additionally, we investigated metabolic profiles in CHD patients and healthy controls.METHODS: CHD patients aged 0-6 years of age who previously participated in a multi-centre and multinational pharmacokinetic safety bridging study of enalapril were included. Patients were defined as responder when aldosterone levels decreased after a single administration of enalapril. Non-responders were those with an increase in their aldosterone levels. We applied an untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach on serum. By using both supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms, we compared metabolic profiles between responders and non-responders as well as between patients and age and sex matched healthy controls.RESULTS: In total, 63 patients were included with a median age of 132 (IQR 54-211) days and 46 controls [97 (63-160) days]. 41 of 63 patients responded to enalapril therapy. Their baseline characteristics were similar to non-responders (n = 22). A total of 1,820 unique features were identified. Responders were distinguished from non-responders using a supervised learning algorithm based on 94 features (p = 0.05). Furthermore, metabolic profiles could distinguish between patients and controls based on an unsupervised learning algorithm which revealed 278 relevant features (p = 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: These are the first data to demonstrate a clear metabolic signature in children with CHD using ACEi. We identified metabolites whose concentrations were both associated with ACEi response and HF. This indicates more severe HF in patients with more profound treatment response. Our results will therefore allow further studies aiming at disentangling variability in ACEi treatment response.PMID:40356784 | PMC:PMC12066549 | DOI:10.3389/fped.2025.1530063

Front Microbiol. 2025 Apr 28;16:1560887. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1560887. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTThis study explored the impact of Bacteroides uniformis (B. uniformis) on fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) induced by a high-energy and low-protein (HELP) diet in laying hens, mainly focusing on hepatic lipid metabolism, gut microbiota, and arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. A total of 120 Dawu Golden Phoenix laying hens (210-day-old) were randomly divided into four groups. The control group (CON) was fed a standard diet and received a daily gavage of PBS, while the other groups were fed with a HELP diet to induce FLHS and received a daily gavage of PBS (MOD), 1 × 109 CFU/ml B. uniformis (BUL), and 1 × 1011 CFU/ml B. uniformis (BUH) for 70 days. All hens were administered 1 ml daily by gavage. Each group had 6 replications with 5 hens per replication. The results showed that B. uniformis increased the egg production rate and feed conversion ratio and decreased body weight, liver index, and abdominal fat rate (p < 0.05). B. uniformis treatment reduced liver lipid accumulation by reducing the levels of Triglyceride (TG), Total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), alanine transaminases (ALT), and aspartate transaminases (AST) in serum and significantly elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p < 0.05). The results indicated that B. uniformis altered the gut microbiota. Specifically, the abundance of Bacteroides was higher, and the relative abundances of Treponema, Helicobacter, and Spirochaetota were lower than those of the MOD group (p < 0.05). Moreover, targeted metabolomic analysis showed that supplementation of B. uniformis significantly elevated 6-keto-PGF1α and AA levels, along with significantly reduced levels of thromboxane B2 (TXB2), leukotriene D4 (LTD4), 8-isoprostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), 12S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12S-HETE), 15S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15S-HETE), 9-S-hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid (9S-HODE), and 13-S-hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid (13S-HODE) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the oral intake of B. uniformis can improve liver function, gut microbiota, and AA metabolism, thereby helping to ameliorate FLHS in Dawu Golden Phoenix laying hens.PMID:40356654 | PMC:PMC12066428 | DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2025.1560887

Front Microbiol. 2025 Apr 24;16:1581432. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1581432. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTThe impact of climate change on the global hydrological cycle is becoming increasingly significant, with changes in precipitation patterns emerging as a key factor influencing the carbon and nitrogen cycling processes in alpine wetland ecosystems. However, the response of the nosZ-type denitrifying microbial community and its metabolic characteristics in the source wetland to precipitation changes remains unclear. In this study, high-throughput sequencing of the nosZ gene and LC-MS-based metabolomics were used to investigate the response of the nosZ-type denitrifying microbial community and its metabolic characteristics to precipitation changes (4 years) in the source wetland of Qinghai Lake. The results showed that Microvirga was the key bacterial group in the source wetland of Qinghai Lake, and Azospirillum was sensitive to changes in precipitation (P < 0.05). The 50% rainfall enhancement treatment significantly increased soil moisture, and the total carbon content showed an increasing trend with the increase in precipitation (P < 0.05). pH was the most important explanatory factor for community structure, while total nitrogen content was the key explanatory factor for community diversity. Deterministic processes dominated the assemblage of the nosZ-type denitrifying microbial community in the source wetland of Qinghai Lake. Soil metabolomics analysis showed that the differential metabolites in the Source Wetland mostly exhibited significant positive correlations. Precipitation changes significantly affected the relative abundance of N-Acetylaspartic acid. In summary, lower precipitation is more favorable for maintaining carbon storage in the source wetlands of Qinghai Lake. Precipitation variation disrupted the existing nitrogen balance within the ecosystem and altered the structure of the nosZ-type denitrifying microbial community and soil metabolic characteristics. These findings imply that climate change-driven shifts in precipitation patterns may impact carbon and nitrogen dynamics in alpine wetlands, alter ecosystem stability, and have profound effects on microbial communities and biogeochemical cycles.PMID:40356652 | PMC:PMC12067595 | DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2025.1581432

Front Microbiol. 2025 Apr 28;16:1498050. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1498050. eCollection 2025.ABSTRACTCrossbreeding has emerged as a strategy to combine desirable traits from different sheep breeds, with the goal of enhancing productivity, disease resistance, and growth rates. This study compares the immune responses, rumen microbiomes, and serum metabolites of Hu sheep, East Friesian (EF) sheep, and crossbred Hu × EF (DH) sheep to explore the effects of crossbreeding on productivity and disease resistance. Hu sheep exhibited significantly higher lymphocyte counts (p < 0.05) and white blood cell (WBC) counts (p < 0.05) compared to EF and DH sheep, indicating stronger basal immune responses. DH sheep showed superior immune responses, with a higher cluster of differentiation 4+/cluster of differentiation 8+ (CD4+/CD8+) T cell ratio (p < 0.05) compared to EF sheep. Rumen microbiome analysis revealed distinct microbial profiles; DH sheep exhibited higher relative abundances of Prevotella (p < 0.05), which is associated with improved growth and disease resistance. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant differences in bile acid profiles: DH sheep exhibited higher levels of 6-keto lithocholic acid (6-ketoLCA), cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), and 3β-hyodeoxycholic acid (3β-HDCA) (p < 0.05), which is associated with improved immune function and gut health. These results indicate that crossbreeding improves immune resilience and metabolic efficiency, which has implications for breeding strategies designed to enhance livestock productivity and disease resistance.PMID:40356639 | PMC:PMC12066648 | DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2025.1498050

Plant Commun. 2025 May 12:101372. doi: 10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101372. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTContinuous cropping (CC) obstacles are among the primary factors limiting the development of global agriculture. Although most plants are negatively affected by barriers that develop with CC, they may also overcome obstacles by altering the soil biological and chemical environment to favor plant growth. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which plants recruit beneficial microorganisms using root exudates to alleviate obstacles in a 10- year CC potato system. On day 20 after potato emergence in a CC system, soil microorganisms promoted an increase in adventitious root (AR) numbers by increasing indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) content in rhizosphere soil. Analysis of rhizosphere bacterial communities using 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that CC altered community structure, with increased abundance of Pantoea sp. MCC16. Irrigation with root exudates from CC potato significantly increased AR numbers and Pantoea sp. MCC16 abundance. According to untargeted metabolomic analysis, nobiletin was identified as promoting Pantoea sp. MCC16 colonization in the rhizosphere. Last, application of nobiletin or Pantoea sp. MCC16 significantly increased the yield of CC potatoes. Thus, CC plants can actively secrete unique metabolites nobiletin to recruit Pantoea sp. MCC16, a high IAA producer, to help plants recover functional traits and mitigate CC obstacles.PMID:40356241 | DOI:10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101372

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116428. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116428. Epub 2025 Apr 17.ABSTRACTTo thoroughly analysis the lipid composition and regularities of distribution in different cashew apple varieties, the fatty acid composition and lipid composition of cashew apples were separated and identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and the overall differences and metabolic pathways of lipids in eight cashew apples were analyzed by OPLS-DA and metabolomics. The results showed that cashew apples were composed of 17 fatty acids (oleic acid and palmitic acid, etc.) and 320 lipids in eight cashew apples, among which 190 lipid compounds with VIP value greater than 1 were screened out, and the lipid compounds in different cashew apples were quite different. The content of total fatty acids and total sterols was highest in Bra4. The difference in lipid composition between Moz3 and Gua was the largest, and 67 lipid compounds with significant differences were found, which mainly existed in nine metabolic pathways (steroid biosynthesis and linoleic acid metabolism, etc.). This study provided a scientific basis for the variety identification and functional product development of cashew apples.PMID:40356179 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116428

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116411. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116411. Epub 2025 Apr 17.ABSTRACTThe impact of climate change on grapevine cultivation has led to challenges in winemaking, particularly in terms of elevated sugar levels and reduced acidity in grapes. To address this, the specie of Lachancea thermotolerans (LT) with high lactic acid production potential have gained attention. This study explores the co-fermentation of the selected LT with Saccharomyces cerevisiae CECA to improve the chemical and flavor profiles of wine. Four different inoculation timings were tested in Cabernet Sauvignon fermentation to investigate the effects on metabolic pathways and fermentation performances. The results indicated that indigenous L. thermotolerans A38 slightly prolonged the fermentation time (13-14 days) but produced wine with lower volatile acidity compared to the pure inoculations of S. cerevisiae CECA (12 days). In contrast, co-fermentation with L. thermotolerans A38 led to the higher acidity and altered the metabolic profile of the wine, including increased lactic acid production (1.38-3.02 g/L), especially when S. cerevisiae was inoculated 48 h after LT fermentation (3.02 g/L). In co-fermented wines with LT strain, the levels of several aromatic volatiles, including phenylethyl alcohol (increasing by 4.10-37.64 %), phenylethyl acetate (by 6.72-302.19 %), ethyl lactate (by 4.48 folds), and ethyl acetate (by 2.65-83.07 %), were significantly increased, along with some terpenes. Metabolomics analysis revealed that different inoculation timings significantly influenced the microbial biosynthesis pathways of flavonoids and amino acids, thereby altering the production of aromatic compounds. This study provides new insights into the role of L. thermotolerans in winemaking and presents an effective strategy for addressing the acidity issues associated with climate change-induced grape composition changes.PMID:40356176 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116411

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116403. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116403. Epub 2025 Apr 17.ABSTRACTThis research investigated the metabolic interactions between Lactococcus lactis strains and commercial starter cultures during fermentation. Through integrated analysis of fermentation characteristics, we demonstrated that L. lactis supplementation significantly enhanced both viable bacterial counts and fermentation kinetics. The metabolomic profiling showed that the commercial starter cultures and L. lactis NGD8 co-fermentation group (CSL + NGD8) developed distinctive "complex fruit-dairy" flavor characteristics, with significantly elevated levels of bioactive metabolites, including 6-hydroxycaproic acid, hippuric acid and methylmalonic acid. Furthermore, genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) elucidated the directional metabolite transfer mechanisms, where commercial starter cultures functioned as metabolite donors, facilitating the directed transfer of amino acids (glycine, glutamic acid, and alanine) and their precursors to L. lactis NGD8 during fermentation. This metabolic interaction was further validated by significant variations in free amino acid profiles. These findings provide novel insights into the synergistic effects of starter culture combinations and develop improved starter cultures with unique Chinese characteristics through precise regulation of strain interactions.PMID:40356174 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116403

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116388. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116388. Epub 2025 Apr 23.ABSTRACTProbiotics are live microorganisms offering various health benefits to hosts, but exposure to adverse conditions can compromise their viability during gastrointestinal transit. Probiotics in the biofilm state have been proven as an alternative way to the probiotic survival challenge; however, knowledge of mixed-species biofilms by probiotics is limited. This study aimed to examine the ecological interactions between Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP-52 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum LF-56 from a phenotypic and metabolomics perspective during their mixed-species biofilm development. In specific, we investigated how their interaction changes bacterial growth, biofilm-forming capacity, biofilm structure, biofilm metabolic activity, EPS production, and biofilm tolerance under gastrointestinal conditions. Moreover, a comprehensive metabolomics analysis was conducted to identify different metabolic profiles and elucidate the underlying mechanisms during the development of mixed-species biofilm. Results showed that their cooperative interaction significantly promoted the planktonic cell growth of L. fermentum LF-56 and L. plantarum LP-52 during their co-cultivation. The synergistic effect also markedly improved the biofilm formation, with increased cell counts in biofilms and higher metabolic activity when compared to each single-species biofilm. Confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging showed denser and more diverse structures of mixed-species biofilm with higher coverage and thickness. In addition, dual-species biofilms were best tolerated under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions. Untargeted metabolomics assay identified 852 differential metabolites, primarily associated with seven pathways: two pathways of nucleotide metabolism (purine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism), two pathways of carbohydrate metabolism (TCA cycle, glycolysis), alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, riboflavin metabolism, and ABC transporters, which an enhanced energy metabolism, stress adaptation, and potential biofunctional benefits. With this respect, this investigation underscores the benefits of mixed probiotics biofilms and contributes to further application of probiotics in the food and biotechnology industry.PMID:40356168 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116388

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116359. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116359. Epub 2025 Apr 22.ABSTRACTWhole grains represent key components of a healthy diet, helping to meet the nutritional needs of consumers and playing a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases. Whole grains are rich in various types of flavonoids with antioxidants and health-promoting properties at varying levels. This article defines and elucidates different whole grain types, analyses the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used metabolomics instruments, and systematically organises and classifies flavonoids detected in whole grains. Additionally, we mapped flavonoid biosynthetic pathways and discussed the usefulness of metabolomic techniques in elucidating the functions of key genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. The MYB-bHLH-WD40 (MBW) complex regulates flavonoid biosynthesis during seed development, regulating seed colour and flavonoid content. In addition, MBW complex expression is highly tissue-specific; it is preferentially expressed in purple or black tissues. This review describes flavonoid diversity and biosynthetic pathways in whole grains and provides a theoretical foundation for functional whole grain development and usage.PMID:40356159 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116359

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116492. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116492. Epub 2025 Apr 17.ABSTRACTCurrent studies on the detection and analysis of anthracnose in mangoes using optical technology mostly rely on inoculation methods. However, to what extent the inoculation (InI) can represent the biological and metabolic differences of the naturally infected (NaI) diseases remains unknown. Therefore, this study systematically compared microbial community composition, metabolite profiles, and visible near-infrared (VIS-NIR) spectral characteristics to evaluate whether InI can serve as a reliable substitute for NaI in laboratory research. The results revealed distinct microbial and metabolic differences between the two infection modes. In the InI group, Colletotrichum-xanthorrhoeae dominated (99.6 %), whereas the NaI group exhibited a more diverse microbial composition, with Colletotrichum-xanthorrhoeae (66.7 %) coexisting with Botryosphaeria agaves (32.9 %). Metabolomic analysis identified 255 differential metabolites, with only three shared among the top 20 most significant ones, indicating substantial biochemical variations between infection types. Spectral analysis in the 400-1000 nm range demonstrated that the effective wavelength regions differed between InI and NaI in the early stages, with In-I-early at 786-798 nm and Na-I-early at 631-637 nm. Spectral reflectance differences between the two infection modes may stem from variations in metabolite composition and pigment accumulation, affecting optical absorption and scattering, especially in the unique spectral features with phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and organic acids of NaI. In addition, the Partial Least Squares Discriminate Analysis (PLS-DA) model was used to discriminate two types of diseased mangoes. The detection accuracy rate for the early-stage of InI is as high as 100.00 %, while the early stage of NaI is 89.92 %. In conclusion, the findings indicate that inoculation may not fully replicate the physiological and biochemical complexity of natural infection, emphasizing the need to consider natural disease models when developing non-destructive optical detection techniques for anthracnose in mangoes.PMID:40356146 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116492

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116473. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116473. Epub 2025 Apr 19.ABSTRACTNon-Saccharomyces yeasts (Clavispora lusitaniae, Hanseniaspora uvarum, Kodamaea ohmeri, Meyerozyma caribbica, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa) showed potential use in taste and flavor enhancement of fermented products, including sweet rice wine. Herein, various parameters, including physicochemical indices, antioxidant activities, amino acids, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and metabolites, were examined to investigate the effects of five non-Saccharomyces yeasts on the organoleptic and nutritional properties for sweet rice wine. The results indicated that inoculating non-Saccharomyces yeasts exerted substantial effects on the physicochemical indices and antioxidant activities of sweet rice wine. H. uvarum might provide the most favorable in terms of pleasant VOCs leading to a higher sensory acceptance, compared to other non-Saccharomyces yeasts. Additionally, H. uvarum also exhibited the strongest antioxidant capacities, with significant superiority to C. lusitaniae, M. caribbica, and R. mucilaginosa. The content of bitterness and astringency amino acids, including leucine, valine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine, in sweet rice wine decreased, which might be related to their transformation in tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Twelve significant contributors to the flavor of sweet rice wine inoculated with non-Saccharomyces yeasts and 11 pivotal metabolic pathways were identified via VOCs and metabolomics analyses, respectively. Of these, ethyl decanoate was the key compound contributing most to the unique flavor, and TCA cycle and pyruvate were the critical metabolic pathways involved in the flavor development of sweet rice wine. These findings offer suitable strategies and ideas for diversifying the sweet rice wine industry.PMID:40356135 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116473

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116453. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116453. Epub 2025 Apr 19.ABSTRACTHyperglycemia leads to metabolic dysfunction in human adipocytes, characterized by decreased AKT phosphorylation, downregulation of glycolysis, TCA cycle, and amino acid metabolism, as well as altered lipid profiles. This study aimed to elucidate these metabolic alterations and evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of selected polyphenols. Comprehensive metabolic profiling revealed profound disruptions, including impaired carbon metabolism, amino acids, and lipids associated with obesity. Importantly, treatment with polyphenols, particularly verbascoside and ferulic acid, effectively mitigated these metabolic disturbances, restoring adipocyte homeostasis. The polyphenols increased metabolites from carbon metabolism and amino acids, improving glycolysis, the TCA cycle, and related pathways. They also modulated lipid profiles that are negatively associated with obesity and related diseases. These findings provide valuable insights into the metabolic pathways underlying adipocyte dysfunction in hyperglycemia and highlight the therapeutic potential of polyphenols in ameliorating metabolic disorders.PMID:40356124 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116453

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116449. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116449. Epub 2025 Apr 19.ABSTRACTDifferent strains play crucial roles in achieving the desired diversification of Huangjiu products. Yarrowia lipolytica strains with high (F4) and low (167) erythritol production abilities were used as adjunct cultures for Huangjiu fermentation. Physicochemical properties, volatile flavor substances, functional properties, metabolite abundance, microbial community dynamics and sensory properties of Huangjiu were evaluated. This strain promoted carbohydrate consumption. The total content of free amino acids in 167 wine significantly increased, especially with respect to sweet amino acids. Y. lipolytica promoted the production of alcohols and esters. The esters in F4 wine increased by 78.2 %, especially medium-chain and long-chain fatty acid ethyl esters, while the alcohols in 167 wine increased by 43.8 %, especially phenylethanol. Based on non-targeted metabolomic analysis, metabolites related to amino acid metabolism were highly enriched in the two groups of wines supplemented with Y. lipolytica F4 is primarily involved in tryptophan and arachidonic acid metabolism and promotes the synthesis of amino acids and their derivatives. The 167 wine contained beneficial functional metabolites involved in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism. Y. lipolytica altered the abundance of dominant bacterial genera, with F4 increasing Lactiplantibacillus by 42.1 % and 167 enhancing Weissella by 35.9 %. Sensory analysis showed that Y. lipolytica 167 wine promoted the fruit aroma while F4 highlighted cereal aroma in the resulting wine. Therefore, applying Y. lipolytica strains with different erythritol synthesis abilities as adjunct culture are expected to produce products with distinctive flavor or functionality for rice wine or other similar beverages.PMID:40356123 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116449

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116447. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116447. Epub 2025 Apr 17.ABSTRACTSeaweeds are rich in bioactive compounds that contribute to their diverse taste profiles and nutritional benefits. Understanding the metabolic basis of their sensory attributes is essential for optimizing their use in food products. This study investigates the taste profiles and metabolic distinctions of four seaweed species (Saccharina japonica, Pyropia yezoensis, Undaria pinnatifida, and Ulva lactuca). Electronic tongue and sensory analysis revealed interspecies differences, with P. yezoensis characterized by pronounced umami and saltiness, U. pinnatifida by sweetness, and S. japonica by astringency, bitterness, and sourness. Metabolomic analysis identified 844 metabolites, uncovering distinct species-specific metabolite profiles. Amino acids, nucleotides, organic acids, and their derivatives emerged as key biomarkers, with P. yezoensis enriched in amino acid metabolism, U. lactuca emphasizing pyrimidine metabolism, and S. japonica favoring purine metabolism. Major taste-active compounds included amino acids (Asp, Glu, Thr, Ala, Cys, His, and Phe), nucleotides (5'-IMP), organic acids (tartaric acid and lactic acid), saccharides (mannitol, glucose, and fructose), and mineral ions (Na, K, and Ca) whose synergistic effects significantly enhanced taste complexity and richness. Notably, P. yezoensis demonstrated the highest synergistic umami equivalent concentration, attributed to the interplay of amino acids and nucleotides. These findings elucidate the biochemical underpinnings of seaweed taste profiles, offering a foundation for targeted improvements in seaweed-based food products by leveraging their unique sensory and biochemical attributes.PMID:40356122 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116447

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116443. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116443. Epub 2025 Apr 19.ABSTRACTChina is one of the world's three major grape-producing regions. However, limited research has focused on the differential metabolites of cross-regional and cross-varietal grapes, and the specific metabolites responsible for their pharmacological effects. Thus, this study comparatively analyzed the antioxidant activities and metabolite compositions of grapes from different regions and varieties to explore the potential antioxidant mechanisms of flavonoid metabolites. The results revealed that the production region primarily influenced the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) of grapes, whereas variety significantly affected the ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Both region and variety had highly significant effects on the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of grapes (P < 0.001) and showed significant effects on the 2,2'-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) and grape metabolites (P < 0.05). However, variety exerted a stronger influence on metabolite composition than region (P < 0.001). Flavonoid metabolites have emerged as key antioxidants, with compounds such as kaempferol, fisetin, and 6-hydroxyluteolin playing critical roles. These metabolites primarily exert their antioxidant effects through signaling pathways, notably the PI3K-Akt pathway. Among all samples, Xinjiang's 'Summer Black' grapes showed the best antioxidant capacity. These findings provide insights into the biochemical basis underlying the differences grapes in China, offering a theoretical foundation for further research on the pharmacological efficacy and antioxidant mechanisms of secondary metabolites in Chinese grapes.PMID:40356120 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116443

Food Res Int. 2025 Jun;211:116425. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116425. Epub 2025 Apr 18.ABSTRACTMoringa oleifera Lam. (Moringa) is used to make accepted herbal medicines. Although many studies have highlighted the potential clinical applications of Moringa, its use remains uncertain. Therefore, in this research, a novel integrated strategy based on a signature metabolome was applied to drive the precise exploration of Moringa, which was verified in a rat model. The clinical applications predicted by the signature metabolic profile of Moringa was subsequently verified in disease models. Furthermore, after verification by quantitative methods, we used a biomarker, FA 18:3/FA 20:2, for earlier detection of alcoholic fatty acid disease. This study demonstrated a convenient strategy for the accurate exploration of Moringa for the first time and verified that metabonomics-based biomarkers can indeed be used for the early detection of new indicators.PMID:40356115 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116425