SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Chromosomes, Plant”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

SourceResearch connectionFrom yearThrough year

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

159 records · Page 7Linked to original sources

PubMed2026

"Clinical efficacy and expression of antimicrobial resistance genes after using a novel herbal mouthwash compared to chlorhexidine: A Randomised controlled trial in generalised gingivitis patients".

OBJECTIVES: Chlorhexidine, the gold-standard mouthwash, has several disadvantages, like promotion of antimicrobial resistance. Herbal mouthwashes are emerging as alternatives to chlorhexidine. However, its impact on antimicrobial resistance remains unclear. The aim of the study was to compare the clinical efficacy and the expression of antimicrobial resistance genes of chlorhexidine with a novel herbal mouthwash. DESIGN: Sixty patients with generalised gingivitis were randomly assigned to two groups using block randomisation. After professional mechanical plaque removal patients were instructed to use either chlorhexidine or a novel herbal mouthwash (patented composition) for two weeks. Tetracycline resistance (tetM) and macrolide efflux (mefI) gene expression in subgingival plaque were analysed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intragroup comparisons were performed with a paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test for parametric and nonparametric data. Intergroup comparisons employed unpaired t-test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: A significant reduction in bleeding, plaque, pocket depth and and patient reported outcomes were noticed in both groups. But reduction in plaque was more significant in chlorhexidine group. tetM and mefI genes significantly upregulated in the chlorhexidine group, while it was downregulated with herbal mouthwash (fold change 1.79 ± 0.74 and 0.60 ± 0.43 for tetM, and 1.83 ± 0.87 and 0.51 ± 0.44 for mefI). However, patients' perception of taste, freshness, and overall satisfaction was better in the chlorhexidine group. CONCLUSIONS: The increased expression of antimicrobial resistance genes following chlorhexidine use warrants careful consideration. Herbal mouthwash is an effective, safer alternative with comparable clinical benefits and less impact on antimicrobial resistance.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

A 12-week, double-blind, quasi-randomized, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Coleus forskohlii (Forcslim) on body weight loss.

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity have emerged as a global epidemic, significantly impacting human health. Traditional usage and growing scientific evidence suggest that Coleus forskohlii extract (Forcslim) may aid in reducing excess body weight and fat. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Forcslim supplementation in overweight individuals. METHODS: A quasi-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 60 overweight subjects aged 20-70 years over a period of 12 weeks. The participants were assigned to receive either Forcslim or placebo. The key outcome measures included body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, and anthropometric parameters. Additionally, lipid profile parameters and safety markers (including metabolic, hepatic, and cardiovascular indicators) were assessed throughout the study duration. RESULTS: Compared to the placebo group, the Forcslim group showed significant reductions in waist circumference (-1.83 cm; p < 0.01) and body weight (-1.93 kg; p < 0.001). Significant improvements in anthropometric parameters were observed exclusively in the Forcslim group. Furthermore, triglyceride (TG) levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.01), while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels showed a significant increase (p = 0.001). No clinically significant changes were observed in metabolic markers, liver and muscle enzyme levels, heart rate, blood pressure, or reported adverse effects, indicating a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: Forcslim demonstrated significant anti-obesity effects, including reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and improvements in the lipid profile. These findings suggest that C. forskohlii extract supplementation may serve as a safe and effective alternative to synthetic anti-obesity drugs.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Alginate-based edible coating incorporating green tea extract for preserving postharvest quality and safety of white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus).

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a sodium alginate based edible coating incorporated with green tea extract (GTE) (Camellia sinensis) on the postharvest quality attributes and antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes in white mushrooms during refrigerated storage. The phenolic profile of GTE was characterized, and its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against L. monocytogenes (1.6 mg/mL) was determined. Sodium alginate coatings, with (ALG-GTE) or without GTE (ALG) at MIC (1.6 mg/mL), were characterized (functional groups, solubility in water, moisture, thickness, water contact angle and color) for their chemical and physical properties. The effects of ALG-GTE coatings on quality parameters (firmness, weight loss, color, pH, sugars and organic acids), enzymatic activity [polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD) and pectin methylesterase (PME)], antimicrobial activity against L. monocytogenes (5 log CFU/g), and surface characteristics (3D optical profilometry) were assessed in white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) during refrigerated storage (8 days, 4 ± 1 °C, 90-95% RH). The ALG-GTE coatings preserved sugar composition, particularly rhamnose, reduced organic acids accumulation and delayed weight and firmness loss, reduced color changes, and decreased PME activity in coated white mushrooms. L. monocytogenes counts decreased by 1.4 log CFU/g after 1 day, and no viable cells were detected after 2 days (< 1.5 log CFU/g) in ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms. In addition, ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms exhibited smoother surfaces than uncoated samples. These findings highlight the potential of ALG-GTE coatings as a sustainable alternative capable of improving the microbiological safety and delaying the postharvest changes in fresh mushrooms.

Agaricus↗

PubMed2026

Selective monitoring of trace-level catechin and myricetin in herbal and aqueous matrices using magnetic MIP-DSPME: Optimization via design of experiments.

A novel dispersive solid-phase microextraction approach utilizing a magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer (MMIP) integrated with HPLC-UV detection was developed for the concurrent quantification of catechin and myricetin in herbal extracts and aqueous samples. The sorbent was engineered as a core-shell nanocomposite, consisting of a selective polymer layer deposited onto Fe3O4@SiO2-APTMS magnetic nanoparticles. Dual-template imprinting using catechin and myricetin generated complementary binding cavities within the polymer framework. Experimental variables influencing extraction were systematically screened and subsequently optimized. A Plackett-Burman design was first applied to identify the most influential factors, with pH and sorption time identified as the dominant variables. These parameters were subsequently fine-tuned using a central composite design, and the optimization process was completed in only 30 experimental runs. The sorption characteristics of the imprinted sorbent (MMIP) were compared with those of its non-imprinted counterpart (MNIP). The MMIP demonstrated markedly higher maximum binding capacities (Qmax), reaching 119.3 mg g-1 for myricetin and 112.1 mg g-1 for catechin, whereas the corresponding values for the MNIP were 32.55 and 32.08 mg g-1, respectively. Moreover, the affinity constants (KL = 0.760-0.950 L mg-1) were approximately 2.3-fold higher for the MMIP, confirming its stronger and more selective interactions with the target analytes. The selectivity coefficients for the targeted flavonoids relative to structurally related compounds, including ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, melatonin, and curcumin, exceeded 3.5 for the MMIP, whereas the corresponding values for the MNIP were close to 1.1, demonstrating the high molecular recognition capability of the imprinted sorbent. Method validation demonstrated limits of detection (LODs) of 0.33-0.59 ng mL-1 and limits of quantification (LOQs) of 1.10-1.96 ng mL-1, and excellent linearity over the concentration range of 5.0-5500 ng mL-1 (R2 > 0.998). The method achieved recoveries of 93.96% to 105.69% with RSDs below 5.5%, while the preconcentration factors ranged from 209 to 229. Furthermore, the sorbent retained more than 95% of its extraction efficiency after four consecutive reuse cycles and more than 80% after six cycles, demonstrating excellent stability and reusability. The proposed method was successfully applied to the analysis of six medicinal plant extracts and water samples, showing negligible matrix interference and superior sensitivity, selectivity, and operational simplicity compared with conventional solid-phase extraction methods.

Flavonoids↗

PubMed2026

CL16019, A Combination of Cissus quadrangularis and Boswellia serrata Extracts Promotes the Healing of Distal Radius Fractures: A Multicentric, Randomized, Open-Label Study.

OBJECTIVE: Distal radius fracture (DRF) is the most frequent injury to the upper limb. Complications include nonunion, wrist stiffness and instability, local discomfort, and tendon irritation. The purpose of the current open-label clinical study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of CL16019, an herbal formulation of Cissus quadrangularis and Boswellia serrata extract, in accelerating fracture healing in volunteers with DRFs. METHODS: Fifty participants (both male and female; age: 30-50 years) with type I, IIA, or IIB DRFs (as per Lidstrom classification) were equally randomized and treated with standard treatment (ST) or ST + CL16019 for 60 days. The primary efficacy outcome was the radiographical bone fracture healing rate as scored by the Radius Union Scoring System (RUSS). Pain, swelling, and tenderness were among the clinical characteristics evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS). Wrist function improvements were assessed using the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Questionnaire (PRWEQ). The intergroup and intragroup results were analyzed using a paired t-test and an analysis of covariance model, respectively. RESULTS: The RUSS scores for the ST and ST + CL16019 groups at the end of the trial were 5.54 ± 1.77 and 7.96 ± 0.20, respectively, with a p-value <0.0001. In addition, the CL16019 volunteers showed substantial (p < 0.05) declines in their VAS and PRWEQ scores. The ST + CL16019 group demonstrated higher Physician Global Assessment and Subject Global Assessment scores. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation of CL16019 along with standard therapy was found to enhance the bone fracture healing rate, possibly by accelerating the callus formation rate and enhancing cortical bridging. These findings imply that CL16019 might be a good adjunctive in addition to ST for the faster healing of DRFs. The trial was registered with the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) with the registration number CTRI/2021/12/039006, on December 29, 2021.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of HSD3B and SDR42E1 genes in the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas): potential associations with gonadal development.

Sex steroids are lipid-soluble signaling molecules that regulate sex differentiation, reproductive development and physiological homeostasis in animals. 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-Δ4 isomerase (3β-HSD) is a key steroidogenic enzyme, whereas SDR42E1, an extended short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase, has been implicated in sterol- and steroid-related metabolism. However, the composition, evolutionary relationships and expression patterns of the HSD3B- and SDR42E1-related genes in bivalve gonadal development remain poorly characterized. In this study, five PF01073-containing genes, comprising three CgHsd3b and two CgSdr42e1 genes, were identified in the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas. Phylogenetic analysis separated the proteins into HSD3B-related and SDR42E1-related groups, and gene-structure and motif analyses indicated subfamily-level divergence. All five proteins retained the SDR domain but differed in exon-intron structure and motif composition. Each contained the extended-SDR TGxxGxxG motif, whereas exact classical [ST]GxxxGxG and NNAG motifs were absent. Tyr- and Lys-equivalent residues were conserved, while the HSD3B1 Ser-equivalent position contained Thr in two C. gigas proteins and Ser in one. These features support their classification as extended-SDR proteins but do not establish enzymatic activity or substrate specificity. The three CgHsd3b genes were dispersed on one chromosome, whereas CgSdr42e1-1 and CgSdr42e1-2 were adjacent on another chromosome, suggesting a possible local duplication event for the CgSdr42e1 pair. Public RNA-seq data showed distinct tissue- and gonadal-stage expression patterns, with several genes displaying gonad-biased or female-stage-associated expression. Independent RT-qPCR profiling of the representative genes CgHsd3b-3 and CgSdr42e1-1 detected stage-dependent expression, although tissue rankings differed from those in the public RNA-seq datasets. These differences may reflect the use of independent biological samples, tissue composition, normalization procedures, and platform-specific measurements. Because enzymatic assays, metabolite measurements, cellular localization, and functional perturbation were not performed, the results identify candidate genes whose expression is associated with gonadal development rather than demonstrating regulatory roles. This study provides a comparative framework for future functional investigation of sterol- and steroid-related metabolism in bivalves.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Safety and Tolerability of Single and Multiple Daily Oral Doses of Dried Kratom Leaf Powder in a Randomized Trial in Healthy Volunteers.

BACKGROUND: Kratom use is rising, increasing the need for safety and tolerability studies of high-quality and well-characterized kratom products in humans. Kratom's risk-benefit ratio, recommended dose, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), abuse potential, and withdrawal require evaluation. Thus, the safety and tolerability of 4 escalating single and 15 daily dried kratom leaf powder doses in human volunteers were evaluated over 47 days in the largest controlled kratom-administration study to date. METHODS: A randomized, between-subject, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation study of MitraLeaf kratom powder after single doses (SD), during 15 daily doses (multiple doses; MD), and a 23-day follow-up was conducted in 116 volunteers (49 MitraLeaf and 67 placebo). Twelve participants each received a SD of either 6.65, 13.3, 26.6, or 53.2 mg (n = 13) mitragynine in 500, 1000, 2000, or 4000 mg of MitraLeaf, respectively, with a 10-day follow-up. The same participants received 15 daily doses at the same concentration of SD mitragynine received, with a 27-day follow-up period. Inclusion criteria were nonsmoking healthy males and females who never used kratom or had not used kratom for ≥12 months, 18-55 years old, and BMI ≥18.5 and ≤29.9 kg/m 2 . Participants were excluded if they had known CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or CYP1A2 genetic polymorphisms. RESULTS: No serious adverse events or deaths were reported. TEAEs after SD or MD generally increased as the dose increased. Dizziness, nausea, and feeling of relaxation were the most commonly reported TEAEs after SD, and headache, feeling hot, increased alanine aminotransferase level, and nausea were most common after MD. CONCLUSIONS: This SD and first MD controlled study shows that Mitragyna speciosa -derived MitraLeaf kratom powder was safe and well tolerated at the dose ranges tested, with no evidence of meaningful abuse potential or withdrawal.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Nutrikinetics and bioavailability of Promunel®, a standardized poplar-type propolis phenolic extract: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, cross-over, randomized trial.

Brown poplar-type propolis has been recognized and used for centuries to help prevent upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). However, the scarce, incomplete information in humans on the nutrikinetics and bioavailability of its phenolic constituents, combined with a lack of standardization in its phenolic content and profile pose major challenges to develop bioactive ingredients. Thus, the aim of this study was to establish the nutrikinetics and total bioavailability (NKBA) parameters of brown poplar-type propolis phenolics in humans using the Standardized Propolis Extract (SPE) Promunel®. To achieve this, a 48 h NBKA study was conducted following a double blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over design in healthy humans (n = 10) with two doses of SPE (1X = 400 mg or 4X = 1600 mg). Phenolic compounds were detected, identified and quantified in the extract, plasma and urine through different LC-MS/UV technologies. The SPE used is a rich (304.44 ± 15.61 µmol mg-1) and diverse source of phenolic compounds (5 sub-families). A total of 63 and 85 phenolic metabolites were identified and quantified in plasma and urine, mostly in the form of glucuronides and sulfates. In plasma, phenolic metabolites reached Cmax (1.22 ± 0.20 for 1X and 4.80 ± 0.48 µM for 4X) after 1 h of SPE intake, while urinary excretion occurred mostly during the first 3 h after. The total net bioavailability of SPE phenolic compounds at 48 h was 57.16 ± 5.71% for 1X and 43.82 ± 6.77% for 4X. Generally, the data between SPE 1X and 4X were proportional, indicating that a higher dose does not substantially modulate total net bioavailability. Overall, our data shows that brown poplar-type SPE phenolic compounds are highly bioavailable in the form of cinnamic acid and flavonoid conjugates, and that these compounds are rapidly absorbed and eliminated through the urine. Our results suggest that, for a sustained presence in circulation, brown poplar-type propolis supplements should be consumed more than once a day.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Genomic insights into end-use grain quality and nutritional traits of an ancient Indian dwarf wheat ( Triticum sphaerococcum Percival) population using a multi-locus genome-wide association study.

BACKGROUND: Triticum sphaerococcum, an ancient hexaploid wheat species, is renowned for its stress resilience and superior nutritional quality. A panel of 116 T. sphaerococcum accessions (the largest known collection at a single site globally), with six bread wheat released varieties, was evaluated for its potential for genetic quality improvement. Field experiments were conducted under standard, heat and moisture-deficit conditions across two cropping seasons for ten grain end-use quality and nutritional traits. RESULTS: Genotypes showed highly significant differences (P ≤ 0.001) for measured traits, with high broad-sense heritability resulting from substantial genotypic variance contributions. Triticum sphaerococcum consistently outperformed T. aestivum across environments, with moisture-deficit stress proving more detrimental to quality parameters than heat stress, while micronutrient content increased under stressed conditions. Trait correlations revealed that the gluten index (GI) correlated negatively with the grain hardness index (GHI), wet gluten (WG), and water-binding capacity (WB), while positively correlating with dry gluten (DG) and protein content (PRO), whereas grain iron (GFE), zinc (GZN), and protein showed consistent positive interrelationships. Two superior accessions, PAUTS10 (WG 35.13%, DG 13.71%, PRO 16.42%, GZN 50.89 ppm) and Sonamoti (WG 33.33%, DG 12.92%, PRO 16.27%, GZN 56.03 ppm), were identified, surpassing the best check variety HD3226 for quality and nutritional parameters. Multi-locus genome-wide association studies identified 30 stable quantitative trait nucleotides across environments, with candidate gene analysis revealing genes involved in transcription regulation, biosynthetic processes, metal ion homeostasis, and transport. CONCLUSIONS: Triticum sphaerococcum demonstrated superior grain quality and micronutrient potential compared with modern wheat, highlighting its value as a genetic resource for biofortification. The identification of elite accessions and stable quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) provides useful targets for breeding programs aimed at improving protein and micronutrient content. Integrating ancient germplasm with modern genomic tools can accelerate the development of nutritionally enhanced wheat varieties. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.

Triticum↗

PubMed2026

Pre-clinical evaluation of the anticaries effect of an experimental Malva sylvestris extract mouthwash using a cariogenic model in situ.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and anticariogenic potential of Malva sylvestris extract on enamel and dentin in situ. METHODS: A double-blind crossover in situ study was conducted with 12 participants wearing palatal appliances containing two bovine enamel and two dentin specimens per 3 phases, a total of 72 enamel and dentin specimens. Biofilm formation and daily sucrose exposure were allowed. Treatments were applied twice daily in three phases: Malva sylvestris (2.5%, MS); fluoride (225 ppm, F); and placebo (P). After seven days, biofilm was collected from the bovine specimens for analysis of Lactobacillus spp. and mutans streptococci by Colony Forming Unit counts (CFU log₁₀/mL). Dental demineralization of the bovine specimens was assessed by transverse microradiography (TMR). RESULTS: MS did not reduce Lactobacillus spp. counts (CFU log₁₀/mL: enamel 6.63±0.81; dentin 6.68±0.92) compared to P (6.63±0.70; 6.62±0.51). F also did not differ (6.29±0.75; 6.32±0.41; ANOVA/Tukey, p>0.38). Mutans streptococci data were inconclusive. In enamel, both MS (2320.8±768.2 %vol·µm; 101.6±27.0 µm) and F (1777.3±733.3 %vol·µm; 95.8±23.5 µm) significantly reduced integrated mineral loss and lesion depth compared to P (3517.2±1119.9 %vol·µm; 138.6±19.5 µm; ANOVA/Tukey, p≤0.0003). In dentin, MS significantly reduced integrated mineral loss (322.5 [250-580] %vol·µm) and lesion depth (30.1 [15-42.2] µm) compared to P (880 [580-1705]; 58.3 [32.2-88.6] µm; Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn, p≤0.001), while F (587.5 [305-720]; 25.2 [16.5-38.8] µm) did not differ significantly (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Malva sylvestris extract had no antimicrobial effect on Lactobacillus spp. counts, but significantly reduced enamel and dentin demineralization, showing anticaries effect comparable to fluoride. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Malva sylvestris has demonstrated promising biological activity. This study investigates the antimicrobial efficacy of Malva sylvestris against cariogenic microorganisms in situ. Our findings provide relevant evidence that M. sylvestris exert significant anticaries effects using an in situ model.

Biofilms↗

PubMed2026

Effects of lavender oil preparation silexan on different symptoms of major depression - results from a randomized, controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by depressed mood, anhedonia, and loss of energy, which can be accompanied by associated symptoms and co-morbidities. Psychiatric scales such as the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) must account for the complex nature of depression. METHODS: The MADRS total score change between baseline and week 8 was the primary outcome measure in a randomized, double-blind clinical trial investigating the antidepressant efficacy of 8 weeks' treatment with silexan compared to sertraline and placebo in patients with mild or moderate MDD. We report on a pre-planned, exploratory analysis of the individual MADRS items. Treatment effects were assessed using analyses of covariance with baseline adjustment, based on an estimand strategy. RESULTS: 498 subjects (silexan 170, sertraline 171, placebo 157) were treated and analyzed. After 8 weeks, silexan was superior to placebo for 5 out of the 9 MADRS items analyzed ("apparent sadness", "reported sadness", "reduced appetite", "concentration difficulties", "lassitude"; P < .05) and showed clinically important adjusted mean value differences >0.2 points for 7 out of the 9 items. Item-level results for silexan and sertraline were mainly comparable. CONCLUSIONS: Silexan had a strong over-all antidepressant effect, with the most pronounced improvements affecting the cardinal symptoms of depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION: EudraCT2020-000688-22 first entered on 12/08/2020. Significance statement Patients with depressive disorders can show many different symptoms. To better characterize the clinical action of an antidepressant, it is therefore important to analyze not only the overall value of a depression scale but also the individual items that describe these symptoms. Silexan is a preparation from lavender oil whose antidepressant effect has been proven in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 8-week study in patients with mild or moderate major depressive disorder. Based on the individual items of the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale that was used as the main outcome for efficacy, we found in an exploratory, hypothesis-generating analysis that silexan had a rather broad antidepressant effect in the participants of our study, with potentially clinically meaningful advantages over placebo for 7 out of the 9 individual items investigated. This applied in particular to the main symptoms of depression, namely sadness and lassitude. Our single-item analysis thus helps to understand the antidepressant effects of silexan in more detail. Significant outcomes In patients with mild to moderate major depressive disorder, lavender oil preparation silexan has a clinical profile similar to that of the selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor sertraline based on an item-level analysis of the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Silexan has a significant antidepressant effect that includes an alleviation of depressed mood, anhedonia, and loss of energy, the cardinal symptoms of depression. The broad improvement of symptoms of depression could not be explained by the proven anxiolytic efficacy silexan alone but indicates an independent, direct antidepressant effect. The present item-level analysis provides valuable and detailed additional insights into the therapeutic profiles of silexan and sertraline and may help clinicians to tailor antidepressant treatment to the specific symptoms of a patient. Limitations For item-level analyses of the MADRS, no validated thresholds for the assessment of the clinical importance of changes over time have been defined, taking into account that different items may have different thresholds. Even though our analyses were pre-defined, they were exploratory and did not include studywise type I error level control. Their generalizability beyond the study population is therefore limited.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Evolutionary architecture and lineage-specific diversification of Forkhead box transcription factors in Perna viridis.

The Forkhead box (Fox) transcription factors are evolutionarily conserved regulators of development, cell cycle, and apoptosis across metazoans. This study provides the first comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the Fox gene family in the Asian green mussel (Perna viridis). We identified 28 Fox genes distributed across 10 chromosomes. Comparative analysis reveals the absence of the FoxI, FoxQ1, FoxR and FoxS subfamily, consistent with other bivalves and indicative of lineage-specific gene loss during molluscan evolution. Notably, gene duplications in the FoxAB, FoxD, FoxH, FoxN1-4, FoxQ2 and FoxQD subfamilies may reflect functional diversification associated with environmental adaptation. Exon-intron structural variability, including intron loss in several paralogues, suggests structural diversification and potential regulatory variation. Phylogenetic reconstruction confirmed the monophyly of core Fox classes while highlighting divergent expansion patterns in lophotrochozoans. Selection analyses showed strong purifying selection across duplicated Fox paralogs, supporting functional conservation after lineage-specific expansion. Gene Ontology enrichment linked Fox genes to stress response, apoptosis, and transcriptional regulation. By integrating phylogenetic, structural, and transcriptomic analyses, this study provides a genomic framework for understanding Fox gene organisation, evolution, and tissue-associated expression patterns in Perna viridis and establishes a comparative resource for future functional studies in bivalves.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Genome-wide identification and characterization of ABC transporters and their expression in response to saline-alkaline stress and WSSV infection in Fenneropenaeus chinensis.

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters play crucial roles in stress responses across organisms, yet their functions in Fenneropenaeus chinensis remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified 42 FcABC genes (FcABCs) in the F. chinensis genome and analyzed their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and chromosomal distributions. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the FcABCs into eight subfamilies (ABCA-ABCH), with conserved motif and domain compositions within each subfamily. Expression analysis showed that several FcABC genes, including FcABCG5, FcABCA1, and FcABCC3, were significantly induced under saline-alkaline stress in gill and hepatopancreas tissues. In contrast, most FcABCs were downregulated after WSSV challenge, though a subset (e.g., FcABCB1, FcABCC1) exhibited early upregulation. Functional validation via RNA interference demonstrated that knockdown of FcABCG5 increased shrimp mortality under saline-alkaline stress. Cis-regulatory element analysis revealed an enrichment of stress- and immune-related elements in FcABC promoters. Protein-protein interaction network predictions indicated potential roles for FcABCs in cholesterol metabolism and organic anion transport. Our findings provide insights into the roles of FcABC genes in stress adaptation and immune defense, offering candidate genes for the breeding of stress-resistant shrimp varieties.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

CNOT1 is a potential YTHDF2 target that orchestrates maternal mRNA decay and zygotic genome activation during goat embryogenesis.

Timely and efficient degradation of maternal mRNA is essential for early embryonic development, which occurs from fertilization through the initiation of zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Yet, the regulatory mechanisms governing this process remain poorly characterized. In the present study, we investigated the function of CCR4-NOT transcription complex subunit 1 (CNOT1) during goat embryogenesis. We found that CNOT1 was upregulated during mammalian ZGA, and that its knockdown led to developmental arrest and a marked reduction in blastocyst formation. Moreover, CNOT1 knockdown impaired nascent RNA activity, resulting in 814 upregulated and 1014 downregulated genes, which were enriched for RNA splicing, regulation of chromosome organization, and RNA localization. RNA splicing analysis revealed differential splicing events in 2959 genes, of which 259 were downregulated following CNOT1 knockdown. Notably, CNOT1 was predicted to crosstalk with the m6A reader YTHDF2. Knockdown of YTHDF2 resulted in CNOT1 downregulation at the 8-cell stage in goats and increased transcription levels around polyadenylation sites during ZGA in mice. Together, these findings indicate that CNOT1 is a potential YTHDF2 target that orchestrates maternal mRNA decay and ZGA during goat embryogenesis. Our work provides new insight into the complex regulatory landscape underlying ZGA and may inform strategies to improve the efficiency of goat embryogenesis.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

The Role of Small Segmental Duplications in Generating Identical Isoforms Through Alternative Splicing Sites.

Alternative splicing plays a crucial role in expanding proteomic diversity but can also generate identical isoforms under certain conditions. While mutually exclusive splicing of tandem exons has occasionally been reported to produce identical isoforms, the extent to which other splicing events contribute to this phenomenon remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that alternative 5' and 3' splice site selection can also lead to the formation of identical isoforms, providing an additional type of splicing event for functional redundancy in transcriptomes. To address this, we analyzed reference genome annotations from 15 plant species, including Arabidopsis thaliana and wheat (Triticum aestivum), obtained from the RefSeq database. Identical isoforms were computationally defined as transcripts with distinct exon-intron structures but identical coding sequences. Our analysis reveals that the majority of alternative 5' and 3' fragments originate from small segmental duplications, suggesting that sequence repetition within gene regions facilitates the emergence of such splicing patterns. We also observed differences in the annotated 5' UTRs of some identical isoforms. However, since the alternative splicing sites themselves were not located within UTRs, these differences may reflect annotation uncertainty rather than genuine AS-derived variation. Given that UTR predictions in reference databases are not always precise, such observations should be interpreted cautiously. Expression analysis using an isoform-specific k-mer approach confirmed that identical isoforms can be differentially regulated. These findings suggest that, beyond expanding protein diversity, alternative splicing can also generate redundant isoforms that are differentially expressed at the RNA level, indicating potential regulatory roles. By elucidating the structural and regulatory factors contributing to the formation and retention of identical isoforms, our study provides new insights into the evolutionary and functional significance of alternative splicing in plants.

Alternative Splicing↗

PubMed2026

Genome-wide scans reveal candidate genes associated with wing morph differentiation in Tetrix japonica.

Wing dimorphism is an important dispersal-related trait in insects, but its genomic basis remains poorly understood in pygmy grasshoppers. Here, we integrated genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses, population structure inference, selection scans, and functional annotation to investigate genomic differentiation between long- and short-winged Tetrix japonica. Principal component analysis (PCA), ADMIXTURE, and phylogenetic analyses revealed weak genome-wide separation between morphs, indicating differentiation on a largely shared genetic background. Genome-wide scans based on the fixation index (FST), nucleotide diversity ratios, and Tajima's D, using 50-kb non-overlapping windows and empirical top-5% outlier thresholds, identified multiple candidate regions across seven chromosomes. The broader long- and short-winged candidate sets spanned 9.35 Mb and 9.37 Mb and directly overlapped 82 and 77 genes, respectively. Candidate genes were associated with signaling/hormone regulation, membrane transport, metabolism, cytoskeletal organization, extracellular matrix structure, and development. Short-winged candidate genes were significantly enriched for ABC-type transporter activity and ATP hydrolysis activity. Because all individuals originated from a single laboratory-maintained population with weak genome-wide structure, these regions should be regarded as candidate loci from a screening-stage analysis that require validation in independent populations and by functional assays, rather than as confirmed targets of selection.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Illicium verum polysaccharide targets fimbriae and flagella to disrupt biofilm and inhibit multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli proliferation.

The widespread dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli has led to a decrease in the efficacy of antibiotics, posing severe challenges to clinical anti-infective therapy. Owing to their safety, multitarget activities, and low risk of inducing drug resistance, plant polysaccharides represent a promising alternative strategy. In this study, an acidic polysaccharide (IVP-3) was isolated and purified from the medicinal and edible plant Illicium verum, and it was found to inhibit MDR E. coli colonization by disrupting its biofilm. The Mw of IVP-3 was determined to be 35.566 kDa. Its backbone consists of →4)-α-D-GalpA-6-OMe-(1→, →4)-α-D-GalpA-(1→, →4)-β-D-Galp-(1→, and →3,4)-α-D-GalpA-(1 → residues, whereas the branched chain is composed of α-L-Araf-(1 → 5)-α-L-Araf-(1 → attached to the O-5 position of →2,5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, which is further linked to the O-3 position of the backbone. Mechanistically, IVP-3 disrupts the structure of fimbriae and flagella, inhibits bacterial motility, effectively prevents initial biofilm adhesion, and eradicates preformed mature biofilms. Additionally, IVP-3 damages cell membrane integrity, disrupts the proton motive force, and induces energy metabolism disorder, efflux pump inhibition, and oxidative stress, ultimately leading to bacterial lysis. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of natural antibacterial agents targeting MDR E. coli biofilms and for the high-value utilization of Illicium verum.

Biofilms↗

PubMed2026

An overview of the use of proteomics and peptidomics to characterize alternative protein foods.

The global protein transition is accelerating the development of alternative protein foods, mainly derived from plants, insects, algae, fungi, and cellular agriculture. Ensuring the authenticity, safety, and nutritional adequacy of these emerging protein matrices requires molecular-level characterization beyond traditional compositional analyses. Proteomics and peptidomics have emerged as transformative analytical platforms capable of decoding the molecular signatures that define protein origin, structural integrity, digestibility, functionality, and health potential. The review comprehensively examines the application of proteomics, and peptidomics for profiling alternative protein foods. Further, the source authentication strategies based on species-specific protein and peptide biomarkers, detection of adulteration in complex matrices, and allergenicity assessment is discussed. Special attention is also given to nutritional proteomics with protein digestibility, gastrointestinal peptide release, and identification of bioactive sequences. SIGNIFICANCE: The importance of this review is that proteomics and peptidomics are becoming central in the management of the fast-growing environment of alternative protein foods, such as plant-based, insect, algal, fungal, and cultured meat products. It provides an explanation of the application of mass spectrometry-based processes to decode molecular signatures defining the origin of proteins, their structural integrity, digestibility, allergenicity, and bioactive properties, and thus directly contribute to safety, nutritional analysis, and authenticity of the product. Presentation of the article includes the integration of the knowledge of traditional muscle foods with alternative systems of proteins, where validated protein and peptide biomarkers are used in authentication, fraud detection, and allergy risk assessment in a wide variety of matrices. It also indicates the role of nutritional proteomics and peptidomics in informing the formulation strategy to promote digestibility and release of health-promoting peptides. In general, this review will guide scientists, the food industry, and regulatory bodies to use modern proteomic technologies in quality assurance, and decision-making, for the advancementof sustainable protein-based foods.

Proteomics↗