Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-01-26DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100365
Liping Yang , Zhehong Shen , Lirong Song , Zhixin Lu , Yaqi Zeng , Jianwen Wang , Wanlu Ren , Xinkui Yao , Jun Meng
Fat deposition is a key economic trait in livestock, yet distinct adipose depots often display marked functional heterogeneity. The molecular basis underlying this divergence in Yili horses, however, remains poorly understood. Therefore, we hypothesized that the heterogeneity in fatty acid composition between subcutaneous (SAT) and pericardial adipose tissues (PCAT) in Yili horses is associated with distinct transcriptional programs, which can be explored using an integrated multi-omics approach. Using targeted metabolomics, we found that PCAT contained significantly higher levels of total, saturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but lower monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) compared with SAT. Transcriptomic profiling identified 1513 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were primarily enriched in metabolic, endocrine, and signal transduction pathways. Integrative analysis further highlighted IGF1, LEP, BMP2, SOX9, COL1A2, and FGF9 as key regulators associated with depot-specific fatty acid differences. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the molecular heterogeneity between SAT and PCAT in Yili horses, support our original hypothesis, and provide a molecular basis for understanding adipose depot-specific lipid metabolism, with potential implications for improving fat deposition traits in Yili horses.
{"title":"Integrated targeted metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis reveals heterogeneity of subcutaneous and pericardial adipose tissues in Yili horses","authors":"Liping Yang , Zhehong Shen , Lirong Song , Zhixin Lu , Yaqi Zeng , Jianwen Wang , Wanlu Ren , Xinkui Yao , Jun Meng","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100365","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100365","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Fat deposition is a key economic trait in livestock, yet distinct adipose depots often display marked functional heterogeneity. The molecular basis underlying this divergence in Yili horses, however, remains poorly understood. Therefore, we hypothesized that the heterogeneity in fatty acid composition between subcutaneous (SAT) and pericardial adipose tissues (PCAT) in Yili horses is associated with distinct transcriptional programs, which can be explored using an integrated multi-omics approach. Using targeted metabolomics, we found that PCAT contained significantly higher levels of total, saturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but lower monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) compared with SAT. Transcriptomic profiling identified 1513 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were primarily enriched in metabolic, endocrine, and signal transduction pathways. Integrative analysis further highlighted <em>IGF1</em>, <em>LEP</em>, <em>BMP2</em>, <em>SOX9</em>, <em>COL1A2</em>, and <em>FGF9</em> as key regulators associated with depot-specific fatty acid differences. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the molecular heterogeneity between SAT and PCAT in Yili horses, support our original hypothesis, and provide a molecular basis for understanding adipose depot-specific lipid metabolism, with potential implications for improving fat deposition traits in Yili horses.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100365"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077541","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-01-11DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100353
Fenghuang Shen , Dong Huang , Guoliang Sun , Zezhong Wu , Rui Ma , Yuqiong Meng
To investigate the fillet quality traits (texture, flavor, nutritional value) formation and the mechanism of muscular lipid deposition in triploid rainbow trout, low (20%) and high (30%) lipid diets were manufactured and fed market-size triploid rainbow trout (∼3.2 kg) for 77 days. Results showed that the width of the myosepta (MS) was significantly increased, and nonanal, (E, Z)-2,6-nonadienal, octanal, 1-octen-3-ol, and hexanal emerged as the top five contributors to the overall odor profile of the fish fillets, following exposure to the high-lipid (HL) diet. Lipidomic profiling demonstrated that triglycerides (TG) were the predominated lipid class in both muscle fibers (MF) and MS fractions. The HL diet differentially modulated lipid composition: it upregulated TG content in MF, while reducing TG content and promoting the accumulation of phosphatidylcholine (PC) in MS. Gene expression analysis showed tissue-specific regulation of lipid metabolism. In MF, the upregulation of fatty acid binding protein 1 (fabp1) and perilipin-3 (plin3), and the downregulation of fabp2, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (pparα), pparβ, acyl-CoA oxidase (acox), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (cpt1), were induced by the HL diet, which collectively promoted TG synthesis and storage, which may be one of the underlying mechanisms contributing to the formation of a more intense odor profile in MF. In MS, HL diet exposure induced the upregulation of fabp2, pparα, pparβ, acox, and cpt1, and the downregulation of fabp1 and plin3, thereby promoting TG mobilization and catabolism, and stimulating PC accumulation, and represent a potential mechanism contributing to the increased width of MS. The findings of this study will lay a theoretical foundation for elucidating the quality formation and the heterogeneity of muscular lipid deposition in rainbow trout.
{"title":"From feed to fillet: Dietary lipid affects sensory quality and fillet lipid profile by modulating lipid metabolism in triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)","authors":"Fenghuang Shen , Dong Huang , Guoliang Sun , Zezhong Wu , Rui Ma , Yuqiong Meng","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100353","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2026.100353","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>To investigate the fillet quality traits (texture, flavor, nutritional value) formation and the mechanism of muscular lipid deposition in triploid rainbow trout, low (20%) and high (30%) lipid diets were manufactured and fed market-size triploid rainbow trout (∼3.2 kg) for 77 days. Results showed that the width of the myosepta (MS) was significantly increased, and nonanal, (E, Z)-2,6-nonadienal, octanal, 1-octen-3-ol, and hexanal emerged as the top five contributors to the overall odor profile of the fish fillets, following exposure to the high-lipid (HL) diet. Lipidomic profiling demonstrated that triglycerides (TG) were the predominated lipid class in both muscle fibers (MF) and MS fractions. The HL diet differentially modulated lipid composition: it upregulated TG content in MF, while reducing TG content and promoting the accumulation of phosphatidylcholine (PC) in MS. Gene expression analysis showed tissue-specific regulation of lipid metabolism. In MF, the upregulation of fatty acid binding protein 1 (<em>fabp1</em>) and perilipin-3 (<em>plin3</em>), and the downregulation of <em>fabp2</em>, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (<em>pparα</em>), <em>pparβ</em>, acyl-CoA oxidase (<em>acox</em>), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (<em>cpt1</em>), were induced by the HL diet, which collectively promoted TG synthesis and storage, which may be one of the underlying mechanisms contributing to the formation of a more intense odor profile in MF. In MS, HL diet exposure induced the upregulation of <em>fabp2</em>, <em>pparα</em>, <em>pparβ</em>, <em>acox</em>, and <em>cpt1</em>, and the downregulation of <em>fabp1</em> and <em>plin3</em>, thereby promoting TG mobilization and catabolism, and stimulating PC accumulation, and represent a potential mechanism contributing to the increased width of MS. The findings of this study will lay a theoretical foundation for elucidating the quality formation and the heterogeneity of muscular lipid deposition in rainbow trout.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100353"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145977839","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-11-06DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100326
Anqiong Zeng , Meiquan Yang , Tianmei Yang , Weize Yang , Jinyu Zhang
The fruit of Lanxangia tsao - ko (LT), a widely used spice, is highly perishable during storage and transportation making it essential to develop effective preservation methods. This study employed multi-omics techniques to evaluate the effects of three different treatments on the quality of LT during short-term storage. Results demonstrated that, compared to the tap water control group (TW), the hot water treatment group (HW), carboxymethyl chitosan treatment group (CMC), and hydrogen peroxide‑silver ion solution treatment group (SP) significantly suppressed the increase in color change intensity (ΔE), browning index (BI), weight loss rate (W%), and rot rate (R%) of LT. Furthermore, these treatments promoted the accumulation of beneficial flavor substances, while reducing the level of unfavorable ones. Both CMC and SP were effective in inhibiting the increase of LT's respiration intensity and the relative abundance of pathogenic microorganisms like Rhizopus microsporus and Rhizopus arrhizus. However, HW led to an abnormal decrease in respiration intensity and increases the relative abundance of certain pathogenic microorganisms. In summary, although the temperature setting in the hot water treatment group was not ideal, hot water treatment still significantly inhibited the spoilage and discoloration phenomenon. Both CMC and SP can effectively extend the storage and transportation period of LT in all aspects. This study provides a new idea for the preservation of LT.
{"title":"Effects of hot water treatment, silver hydroxide ion solution and carboxymethyl chitosan on Lanxangia tsao-ko quality","authors":"Anqiong Zeng , Meiquan Yang , Tianmei Yang , Weize Yang , Jinyu Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100326","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100326","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The fruit of <em>Lanxangia tsao - ko</em> (LT), a widely used spice, is highly perishable during storage and transportation making it essential to develop effective preservation methods. This study employed multi-omics techniques to evaluate the effects of three different treatments on the quality of LT during short-term storage. Results demonstrated that, compared to the tap water control group (TW), the hot water treatment group (HW), carboxymethyl chitosan treatment group (CMC), and hydrogen peroxide‑silver ion solution treatment group (SP) significantly suppressed the increase in color change intensity (Δ<em>E</em>), browning index (<em>BI</em>), weight loss rate (<em>W</em>%), and rot rate (<em>R</em>%) of LT. Furthermore, these treatments promoted the accumulation of beneficial flavor substances, while reducing the level of unfavorable ones. Both CMC and SP were effective in inhibiting the increase of LT's respiration intensity and the relative abundance of pathogenic microorganisms like <em>Rhizopus microsporus</em> and <em>Rhizopus arrhizus</em>. However, HW led to an abnormal decrease in respiration intensity and increases the relative abundance of certain pathogenic microorganisms. In summary, although the temperature setting in the hot water treatment group was not ideal, hot water treatment still significantly inhibited the spoilage and discoloration phenomenon. Both CMC and SP can effectively extend the storage and transportation period of LT in all aspects. This study provides a new idea for the preservation of LT.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100326"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145711872","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-08DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100338
Maxime Godfroid , Alexander Van Uffelen , Marie-Alice Fraiture , Sigrid C.J. De Keersmaecker , Kevin Vanneste , Nancy H.C. Roosens , Bert Bogaerts
Bacterial contamination of food and feed is an important public health issue that poses potential risks to consumers. Contamination can occur during industrial fermentation and production processes, where genetically modified micro-organisms (GMMs) and toxin-producing bacteria may be present. The Bacillus genus is particularly relevant in this context, as the Bacillus subtilis group is commonly used as GMM, while Bacillus cereus is often associated with foodborne outbreaks. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is a widely used method to detect and characterize foodborne pathogens, but comparatively little research has focused on its application to GMMs. Here, we present a WGS-based bioinformatics workflow for the characterization of B. subtilis group and B. cereus group isolates, which includes a novel approach for the detection of known GMMs based on detecting known transgenic elements and host strains. The workflow supports both short-read (Illumina) and long-read (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) sequencing data and performs common genomic assays such as quality checks or taxonomic identification. Additionally, isolates are screened for genes associated with antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes and mobile genetic elements. The workflow largely follows the recent EFSA guidelines for WGS-based characterization of micro-organisms in the food chain. We demonstrate that the workflow correctly identifies known genetically modified B. subtilis strains, while not mislabeling wild-type strains as GMM. Finally, using publicly available datasets, we show that the workflow accurately characterizes and identifies subspecies for B. cereus. This automated solution for detecting known GMMs and foodborne pathogens within the Bacillus genus can support regulatory compliance and contribute to ensure food safety.
{"title":"A WGS workflow for identifying genetically modified and foodborne-pathogenic Bacillus isolates","authors":"Maxime Godfroid , Alexander Van Uffelen , Marie-Alice Fraiture , Sigrid C.J. De Keersmaecker , Kevin Vanneste , Nancy H.C. Roosens , Bert Bogaerts","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100338","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100338","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Bacterial contamination of food and feed is an important public health issue that poses potential risks to consumers. Contamination can occur during industrial fermentation and production processes, where genetically modified micro-organisms (GMMs) and toxin-producing bacteria may be present. The <em>Bacillus</em> genus is particularly relevant in this context, as the <em>Bacillus subtilis</em> group is commonly used as GMM, while <em>Bacillus cereus</em> is often associated with foodborne outbreaks. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is a widely used method to detect and characterize foodborne pathogens, but comparatively little research has focused on its application to GMMs. Here, we present a WGS-based bioinformatics workflow for the characterization of <em>B. subtilis</em> group and <em>B. cereus</em> group isolates, which includes a novel approach for the detection of known GMMs based on detecting known transgenic elements and host strains. The workflow supports both short-read (Illumina) and long-read (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) sequencing data and performs common genomic assays such as quality checks or taxonomic identification. Additionally, isolates are screened for genes associated with antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes and mobile genetic elements. The workflow largely follows the recent EFSA guidelines for WGS-based characterization of micro-organisms in the food chain. We demonstrate that the workflow correctly identifies known genetically modified <em>B. subtilis</em> strains, while not mislabeling wild-type strains as GMM. Finally, using publicly available datasets, we show that the workflow accurately characterizes and identifies subspecies for <em>B. cereus</em>. This automated solution for detecting known GMMs and foodborne pathogens within the <em>Bacillus</em> genus can support regulatory compliance and contribute to ensure food safety.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100338"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791488","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-11DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100343
Jianting Lin , Yanchao Du , Haoxuan Jiang , Huating Zhao , Bo Wang , Faqiang Feng
The solanesyl diphosphate synthase gene ZmSPS2 is known to modulate terpenoid metabolism and tocopherol biosynthesis in maize (Zea mays L.), though its system-wide metabolic effects remain poorly understood. In this study, a widely targeted metabolomic analysis revealed significant impacts of the Zmsps2 mutation on metabolic networks in both leaves and kernels at 20 days after pollination (DAP). A total of 2531 metabolites were detected, primarily comprising lipids, organoheterocyclic compounds, and benzenoids. Differential metabolite analysis identified 453 significantly altered metabolites in leaves and 334 in kernels. In leaves, differential metabolites were enriched in four metabolic pathways including zma00051 (Fructose and mannose metabolism), zma00520 (Amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism), zma00941 (Flavonoid biosynthesis), and zma00052 (Galactose metabolism). Four significant pathways were enriched in kernels, including zma02010 (ABC transporters), zma00052 (Galactose metabolism), zma00591 (Linoleic acid metabolism), and zma01230 (Biosynthesis of amino acids). This study demonstrates that the Zmsps2 mutation triggers tissue-specific metabolic alterations: enhancing monosaccharide-driven energy supply in leaves, while promoting accumulation of protective sugars in kernels. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of metabolic profile by the Zmsps2 mutation.
{"title":"Comparative metabolomic analysis of leaves and kernels in wild type and Zmsps2 mutant","authors":"Jianting Lin , Yanchao Du , Haoxuan Jiang , Huating Zhao , Bo Wang , Faqiang Feng","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100343","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100343","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The solanesyl diphosphate synthase gene <em>ZmSPS2</em> is known to modulate terpenoid metabolism and tocopherol biosynthesis in maize (<em>Zea mays</em> L.), though its system-wide metabolic effects remain poorly understood. In this study, a widely targeted metabolomic analysis revealed significant impacts of the <em>Zmsps2</em> mutation on metabolic networks in both leaves and kernels at 20 days after pollination (DAP). A total of 2531 metabolites were detected, primarily comprising lipids, organoheterocyclic compounds, and benzenoids. Differential metabolite analysis identified 453 significantly altered metabolites in leaves and 334 in kernels. In leaves, differential metabolites were enriched in four metabolic pathways including zma00051 (Fructose and mannose metabolism), zma00520 (Amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism), zma00941 (Flavonoid biosynthesis), and zma00052 (Galactose metabolism). Four significant pathways were enriched in kernels, including zma02010 (ABC transporters), zma00052 (Galactose metabolism), zma00591 (Linoleic acid metabolism), and zma01230 (Biosynthesis of amino acids). This study demonstrates that the <em>Zmsps2</em> mutation triggers tissue-specific metabolic alterations: enhancing monosaccharide-driven energy supply in leaves, while promoting accumulation of protective sugars in kernels. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of metabolic profile by the <em>Zmsps2</em> mutation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100343"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791491","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Curcuminoids are the active compounds richest in turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa L.), comprising curcumin I, demethoxycurcumin (curcumin II), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (curcumin III). This study hypothesized that particular curcumin derivatives could mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation response by targeting specific inflammatory mediators. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify the concentrations of these curcuminoid forms in local turmeric extracts from Thailand. Subsequently, the study analyzed their in vitro antioxidant properties, alongside molecular docking and dynamics simulations targeting key oxidative stress- and inflammation-related proteins. Samples were collected from three representative cultivated areas in Thailand: the eastern, southern, and northern regions. The ethanolic extracts from all samples exhibited relatively high total curcuminoid content (eastern: 15.1 %, southern: 25.9 %, and northern: 31.6 % w/w in extract), as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Curcumin I emerged as the predominant variant, followed closely by curcumin II and III. The ethanolic extracts from the three cultural areas demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, as assessed by ORAC, FRAP, and DPPH assays. Among the three curcuminoids, curcumin III exhibited the strongest predicted binding affinities in molecular docking studies toward antioxidant and anti-inflammatory targets, including 5-LOX, NRF2, IKK1, NF-κB, and NOX4. Molecular dynamics simulations corroborated these findings, revealing that curcumin III formed the most stable complexes, particularly with IKK1, as indicated by low RMSD values (2–3 Å), and high hydrogen bond occupancy. Thus, curcumin III exhibits potential in silico inhibition of inflammatory mediators, supporting its promise as a natural compound for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutraceutical development.
姜黄素是姜黄根茎(Curcuma longa L.)中最丰富的活性化合物,包括姜黄素I、去甲氧基姜黄素(姜黄素II)和双去甲氧基姜黄素(姜黄素III)。本研究假设特定的姜黄素衍生物可以通过靶向特定的炎症介质来减轻氧化应激和炎症反应。因此,本研究旨在量化泰国当地姜黄提取物中这些姜黄素形式的浓度。随后,该研究分析了它们的体外抗氧化性能,以及针对关键氧化应激和炎症相关蛋白的分子对接和动力学模拟。样本采集自泰国三个具有代表性的种植区:东部、南部和北部地区。通过高效液相色谱法测定,所有样品的乙醇提取物均具有较高的姜黄素总含量(东部:15.1%,南部:25.9%,北部:31.6% w/w)。姜黄素I是主要的变体,其次是姜黄素II和III。通过ORAC、FRAP和DPPH检测,三个培养区的乙醇提取物显示出显著的抗氧化活性。在三种姜黄素中,姜黄素III在抗氧化和抗炎靶点(包括5-LOX、NRF2、IKK1、NF-κB和NOX4)的分子对接研究中表现出最强的预测结合亲和力。分子动力学模拟证实了这些发现,显示姜黄素III形成了最稳定的复合物,特别是与IKK1,正如低RMSD值(2-3 Å)和高氢键占用所表明的那样。因此,姜黄素III显示出对炎症介质的硅抑制潜力,支持其作为抗氧化和抗炎营养品开发的天然化合物的前景。
{"title":"Comparative analysis of curcuminoid content, antioxidant capacity, and target-specific molecular docking of turmeric extracts sourced from Thailand","authors":"Shisanupong Anukanon , Komgrit Saeng-ngoen , Yawanart Ngamnon , Ngamnetr Rapan , Weerasak Seelarat , Pannraphat Takolpuckdee , Nisa Pakvilai , Yaiprae Chatree","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100291","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100291","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Curcuminoids are the active compounds richest in turmeric rhizomes (<em>Curcuma longa</em> L.), comprising curcumin I, demethoxycurcumin (curcumin II), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (curcumin III). This study hypothesized that particular curcumin derivatives could mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation response by targeting specific inflammatory mediators. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify the concentrations of these curcuminoid forms in local turmeric extracts from Thailand. Subsequently, the study analyzed their <em>in vitro</em> antioxidant properties, alongside molecular docking and dynamics simulations targeting key oxidative stress- and inflammation-related proteins. Samples were collected from three representative cultivated areas in Thailand: the eastern, southern, and northern regions. The ethanolic extracts from all samples exhibited relatively high total curcuminoid content (eastern: 15.1 %, southern: 25.9 %, and northern: 31.6 % <em>w</em>/w in extract), as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Curcumin I emerged as the predominant variant, followed closely by curcumin II and III. The ethanolic extracts from the three cultural areas demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, as assessed by ORAC, FRAP, and DPPH assays. Among the three curcuminoids, curcumin III exhibited the strongest predicted binding affinities in molecular docking studies toward antioxidant and anti-inflammatory targets, including 5-LOX, NRF2, IKK1, NF-κB, and NOX4. Molecular dynamics simulations corroborated these findings, revealing that curcumin III formed the most stable complexes, particularly with IKK1, as indicated by low RMSD values (2–3 Å), and high hydrogen bond occupancy. Thus, curcumin III exhibits potential <em>in silico</em> inhibition of inflammatory mediators, supporting its promise as a natural compound for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutraceutical development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100291"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144911849","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-08-24DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100290
Haoran Shen , Hong Quan , Yixi Cai , Yazhou Lu , Peiyao Yu , Xiaozhong Lan , Xinbo Guo
This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and molecular mechanisms of lily bulb polyphenols using zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos subjected to AAPH-induced oxidative stress. Two extraction methods—cold (CE) and hot (HE) water extraction—were compared. HE exhibited significantly higher total phenolic content (31 ± 4 %, p < 0.05) and polyphenol abundance (9.8 ± 0.6-fold increase, p < 0.05), particularly regaloside A and p-coumaric acid, than CE. Heat-assisted extraction of lily bulbs liberated more polyphenols (both in terms of content and variety), which translated into measurably greater antioxidant protection in vivo. In vivo assays revealed that both extracts improved embryo survival, restored SOD activity, and reduced ROS accumulation, lipid peroxidation, and cell death, with HE demonstrating superior efficacy. Mechanistically, regaloside A and p-coumaric acid reversed AAPH-induced dysregulation of key oxidative stress-related genes. Specifically, they downregulated keap1a, rela, erk2, and p38 expression while restoring nrf2, sod1, and sod2 levels, indicating modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB, and MAPK pathways. The data support the hypothesis that heating increases polyphenol yield and that lily polyphenols exert antioxidant effects via the stated pathways. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for developing lily-based antioxidant ingredients for functional foods.
{"title":"The potential regulation mechanism of lily extracts responds to AAPH induced oxidative stress in zebrafish","authors":"Haoran Shen , Hong Quan , Yixi Cai , Yazhou Lu , Peiyao Yu , Xiaozhong Lan , Xinbo Guo","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100290","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100290","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and molecular mechanisms of lily bulb polyphenols using zebrafish (<em>Danio rerio</em>) embryos subjected to AAPH-induced oxidative stress. Two extraction methods—cold (CE) and hot (HE) water extraction—were compared. HE exhibited significantly higher total phenolic content (31 ± 4 %, <em>p</em> < 0.05) and polyphenol abundance (9.8 ± 0.6-fold increase, <em>p</em> < 0.05), particularly regaloside A and <em>p-</em>coumaric acid, than CE. Heat-assisted extraction of lily bulbs liberated more polyphenols (both in terms of content and variety), which translated into measurably greater antioxidant protection in vivo. In vivo assays revealed that both extracts improved embryo survival, restored SOD activity, and reduced ROS accumulation, lipid peroxidation, and cell death, with HE demonstrating superior efficacy. Mechanistically, regaloside A and <em>p-</em>coumaric acid reversed AAPH-induced dysregulation of key oxidative stress-related genes. Specifically, they downregulated <em>keap1a</em>, <em>rela</em>, <em>erk2</em>, and <em>p38</em> expression while restoring <em>nrf2</em>, <em>sod1</em>, and <em>sod2</em> levels, indicating modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB, and MAPK pathways. The data support the hypothesis that heating increases polyphenol yield and that lily polyphenols exert antioxidant effects via the stated pathways. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for developing lily-based antioxidant ingredients for functional foods.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100290"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144911969","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-10-03DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100312
Mian Faisal Nazir , Tianjiao Jia , Chen Feng , Edgar Manuel Bovio-Zenteno , Yi Zhang , Longyu Dai , Jie Xu , Yafang Zhao , Shuaiyu Zou
This study integrates transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses across five developmental stages of Akebia trifoliata, a climacteric fruit, to map the molecular mechanisms of fruit maturation. We identified key transcription factors, including NAC, MYB, and AP2/ERF families, and genes orchestrating a stage-specific metabolic transition. Early ripening stages were defined by flavonoid biosynthesis for protection and the initiation of starch degradation, supported by elevated expression of sucrose synthase, amylases, and alpha-amylase. Mid-stages featured enhanced phenolic synthesis, significant protein turnover, alongside differentially expressed cytochrome, E3 ubiquitin ligase, and glucan hydrolases. Final maturation was marked by a dramatic induction of invertase, leading to a surge in sucrose and fructose accumulation responsible for the fruit's characteristic sweetness. This work provides a comprehensive roadmap of ripening, revealing the coordination of flavonoid, hormonal, and carbohydrate pathways. These findings offer promising candidate genes and key metabolic markers associated with fruit quality traits. These findings provide a valuable genomic resource and lay the groundwork for future functional studies aimed at improving the nutritional value and sweetness of A. trifoliata through modern breeding techniques.
{"title":"Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses delineate the biosynthetic pathways of functional components in maturing Akebia trifoliata fruit","authors":"Mian Faisal Nazir , Tianjiao Jia , Chen Feng , Edgar Manuel Bovio-Zenteno , Yi Zhang , Longyu Dai , Jie Xu , Yafang Zhao , Shuaiyu Zou","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100312","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100312","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study integrates transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses across five developmental stages of <em>Akebia trifoliata</em>, a climacteric fruit, to map the molecular mechanisms of fruit maturation. We identified key transcription factors, including NAC, MYB, and AP2/ERF families, and genes orchestrating a stage-specific metabolic transition. Early ripening stages were defined by flavonoid biosynthesis for protection and the initiation of starch degradation, supported by elevated expression of sucrose synthase, amylases, and alpha-amylase. Mid-stages featured enhanced phenolic synthesis, significant protein turnover, alongside differentially expressed cytochrome, E3 ubiquitin ligase, and glucan hydrolases. Final maturation was marked by a dramatic induction of invertase, leading to a surge in sucrose and fructose accumulation responsible for the fruit's characteristic sweetness. This work provides a comprehensive roadmap of ripening, revealing the coordination of flavonoid, hormonal, and carbohydrate pathways. These findings offer promising candidate genes and key metabolic markers associated with fruit quality traits. These findings provide a valuable genomic resource and lay the groundwork for future functional studies aimed at improving the nutritional value and sweetness of <em>A. trifoliata</em> through modern breeding techniques.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100312"},"PeriodicalIF":4.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145264735","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-07-07DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100273
Rabia Durrani , Sun Yutian , Hou Bowen , Hammad Ullah , Erwann Durand , Yang Meiyun , Long Yiyang , André Delavault , Muhammad Yasir , Huan Weiwei , Gao Fei , Song Lili
Plant-derived bioactive peptides have drawn increasing attention in the field of nutrition and food science due to their biological activities, low cost, safety, and ease of industrial production. Functional peptides from Torreya grandis are being investigated due to their potential as dietary supplements. This study focuses on T. grandis nut peptides that regulate LIPID-II inhibitor in mice fed a high-fat diet. Proteome analysis identified a Vicilin-like antimicrobial peptide involved in host defense. 16S rRNA Sequencing revealed alteration in gut microbiota with T. grandis administration as manifested by increased Akkermansia and Parabacteroides concurrently by decreased Firmicutes. Beneficial bacteria i.e., Akkermansia improved intestinal functions and increased levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). T. grandis supplementation in HFD mice reduced body weight, TC, TG, LDL, and decreased inflammation, while reducing oxidative stress and increasing HDL in the model group fed a high-fat diet. Lipid droplets in liver, muscles, and blood vessels were highly reduced, evoked by the high peptide group. Transcriptome analysis highlighted lipid regulation via the PPAR-α pathway, with molecular docking revealing 4 potential lipid II inhibitory peptides. These findings suggested T. grandis as a promising supplement in food and a key nut for nutraceutical purposes.
{"title":"Torreya grandis nut peptides regulate lipid-II inhibitors in high-fat diet-fed mice","authors":"Rabia Durrani , Sun Yutian , Hou Bowen , Hammad Ullah , Erwann Durand , Yang Meiyun , Long Yiyang , André Delavault , Muhammad Yasir , Huan Weiwei , Gao Fei , Song Lili","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100273","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100273","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Plant-derived bioactive peptides have drawn increasing attention in the field of nutrition and food science due to their biological activities, low cost, safety, and ease of industrial production. Functional peptides from <em>Torreya grandis</em> are being investigated due to their potential as dietary supplements. This study focuses on <em>T. grandis</em> nut peptides that regulate LIPID-II inhibitor in mice fed a high-fat diet. Proteome analysis identified a <em>Vicilin</em>-like antimicrobial peptide involved in host defense. 16S rRNA Sequencing revealed alteration in gut microbiota with <em>T. grandis</em> administration as manifested by increased <em>Akkermansia</em> and <em>Parabacteroides</em> concurrently by decreased <em>Firmicutes</em>. Beneficial bacteria i.e., <em>Akkermansia</em> improved intestinal functions and increased levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). <em>T. grandis</em> supplementation in HFD mice reduced body weight, TC, TG, LDL, and decreased inflammation, while reducing oxidative stress and increasing HDL in the model group fed a high-fat diet. Lipid droplets in liver, muscles, and blood vessels were highly reduced, evoked by the high peptide group. Transcriptome analysis highlighted lipid regulation via the PPAR-α pathway, with molecular docking revealing 4 potential lipid II inhibitory peptides. These findings suggested <em>T. grandis</em> as a promising supplement in food and a key nut for nutraceutical purposes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100273"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144633131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-06-13DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100268
Aoran Zhang , Yunfan Zheng , Wang Yin , Xiaoqing Pu , Aibing Yu , Hongmei Wang , Bing Yu , Jianping Li , Wenli Chen , Yunxiang Liang
This study investigates the effects of supplementing grower-fattening pig diets with fermented liquid feed (FLF) on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality attributes, and metabolite profiles. Seventy-five crossbred gilts were randomly allocated to groups receiving dry pellet feed (control) or liquid feed with 15 % or 30 % FLF supplementation. FLF supplementation significantly increased final body weight, while decreasing crude protein and ash content in pork. Notably, FLF elevated intramuscular fat and ether extract levels, promoting muscle fat metabolism and resulting in increased backfat thickness and tenderness without compromising storage stability. Metabolomics analysis revealed significant alterations in amino acid and lipid metabolism pathways associated with FLF. Gene expression analysis highlighted changes in key lipid metabolism regulators, providing mechanistic insights into the improved meat quality. Overall, this study underscores FLF as a promising dietary strategy with implications for sustainable and consumer-centric pork production.
{"title":"Impact of fermented liquid feed supplementation on grower-fattening pigs production: Insights into growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and metabolite profiles","authors":"Aoran Zhang , Yunfan Zheng , Wang Yin , Xiaoqing Pu , Aibing Yu , Hongmei Wang , Bing Yu , Jianping Li , Wenli Chen , Yunxiang Liang","doi":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100268","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fochms.2025.100268","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the effects of supplementing grower-fattening pig diets with fermented liquid feed (FLF) on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality attributes, and metabolite profiles. Seventy-five crossbred gilts were randomly allocated to groups receiving dry pellet feed (control) or liquid feed with 15 % or 30 % FLF supplementation. FLF supplementation significantly increased final body weight, while decreasing crude protein and ash content in pork. Notably, FLF elevated intramuscular fat and ether extract levels, promoting muscle fat metabolism and resulting in increased backfat thickness and tenderness without compromising storage stability. Metabolomics analysis revealed significant alterations in amino acid and lipid metabolism pathways associated with FLF. Gene expression analysis highlighted changes in key lipid metabolism regulators, providing mechanistic insights into the improved meat quality. Overall, this study underscores FLF as a promising dietary strategy with implications for sustainable and consumer-centric pork production.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34477,"journal":{"name":"Food Chemistry Molecular Sciences","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100268"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144314343","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}