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The effect of different cytokinins on in vitro shoot culture of an endemic and endangered Gentianella lutescens subsp. carpatica (Beck) Holub
No full textGentianella lutescens subsp. carpatica (Beck) Holub, a rich source of xanthones with specific bioactive properties, is limited in nature. To improve shoot proliferation and growth, shoot explants were cultured for five weeks in vitro on Murashige and Skoog medium enriched with individual cytokinins: N6-benzyladenine (6-BA), kinetin (KIN), meta-topolin (mT), thidiazuron (TDZ) and forchlorfenuron (CPPU), (concentrations range 0–15 µM). The results were in favor of the highest optimal cytokinin concentration 10 µM for shoot culture. The efficacy of cytokinins on axillary shoots proliferation and growth was characterized as mT ˃ TDZ ˃ BA = KIN ˃ CPPU. mT and TDZ at 10 µM produced the highest number of shoots (6.3 and 5.8, respectively). mT-treated shoots were robust, good quality and displayed the highest fresh mass increase (11.88-fold). Almost all cytokinins at 10 µM did not increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes, as well as proline, H2O2 and malondialdehyde content. The photosynthetic pigments were also preserved in all cytokinin-treated shoots compared to control. TDZ showed stronger effect than mT in increasing the content of xanthone glycosides (mangiferin, demethylbellidifolin-8-O-glucoside and bellidifolin-8-O-glucoside), and decreasing the content of their aglycones. Shoot proliferation was enhanced (9.22 shoots/explant) on mT by cultivation in glass jars instead of Erlenmeyer flasks. Compared to TDZ, mT also provided better shoot multiplication and growth under cold conditions (+ 4 °C). The results obtained are useful for conservation and further biological and pharmacological studies of G. lutescens subsp. carpatica. mT could be considered to improve the tolerance of Gentianella species to abiotic stressors
An assessment of the impact of a diverse geological substrate on potentially toxic elements (PTEs) content and origin in soil and sediment in flood conditions using different receptor models
No full textThe aim of this study is to determine the level and source of pollution by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) due to torrential floods
in the catchment area of the Drina River under complex geological conditions. The degree of soil and sediment pollution by PTEs
was estimated by calculating the Pollution Index (PI) and the Geo-accumulation index (Igeo). Sources of PTEs were determined
using Principal component analysis (PCA) for soil and sediment and the Positive Matrix Factorisation (PMF) model for sediment.
To fully include the spatial component when determining the source of PTEs, Bivariate Local Moran's I analysis was also applied.
By comparing the applied methods, it was determined that PCA is suitable for determining the sources of PTEs in soil and for investigating the sedimentation process in sediment, while the PMF model is more suitable for determining the sources of PTEs in
sediment. It was also determined that when the geological substrate is rich and after high-intensity flooding, there is an increase
in As, Cd, Co, Cu and Fe content in sediment compared with soil. Arsenic was partially impacted by anthropogenic factors, with
Igeo values for soil (16.21%) and sediment (21.76%) at the polluted level
Nrf2-dependent energy metabolism crosstalk between brown adipose tissue and breast cancer
No full textBreast cancer (BC) is defined by unique metabolic changes that support tumor progression and therefore is considered a metabolic disease. However, the relationship between cancer and systemic metabolism remains largely unexplored. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) senses, responds, and influences whole-body energy homeostasis. Intriguingly, a redox-sensitive transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) appeared as a key regulator of BAT metabolic function, as well as redox-metabolic synchronization in cancer. Here, to explore the systemic crosstalk between BC and the host, we used an orthotopic model of BC in wild-type (WT) and Nrf2KO mice. We analyzed the protein expression of key enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in BAT at direrent time points of tumor growth (10, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg). We observed a decreased protein expression of hormone-sensitive lipase and fatty acid synthase in BAT of Nrf2KO mice with tumors higher than 100 mg. In contrast, the protein levels of acyl-CoA dehydrogenase and citrate synthase were maintained at the control level in both WT and Nrf2KO mice. Sustained protein expression of complexes II, III, and ATP synthase in WT and Nrf2KO mice indicated upholding of mitochondrial OXPHOS capacity in BAT during BC growth. On the other hand, the protein expression of complex I decreased during tumor growth in WT mice, but increased in Nrf2KO mice with tumor progression. A decreased protein expression of complex IV was observed during tumor growth in both WT and Nrf2KO mice, whereas it was significantly lower in Nrf2KO mice compared to their WT counterparts. Overall, these results revealed that energy metabolism in BAT undergoes Nrf2-dependent reprogramming during BC growth, which provides insights for a deeper understanding of breast cancer within the context of systemic metabolic disease.Conference proceedings: EMBO Workshop on Energy Balance in Metabolic Diseases; 2025 Feb 10-13; Torremolinos, Spain. Heidelberg, Germany: EMBO; 2025. p. 83
Vaccine-Induced Humoral and Cellular Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Multiple Sclerosis Patients on Ocrelizumab
No full textBackground/Objectives: The aim of our study was to investigate B cell and T cell
responses in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) treated with ocrelizumab, a humanized
anti-CD20 antibody, who were vaccinated with second and/or booster doses of various
vaccine brands against COVID-19. Additionally, we detected the outcomes related to
COVID-19 in PwMS after vaccination, based on follow-up for at least 12 months. Methods:
We enrolled 91 PwMS on ocrelizumab and 42 healthy controls (HCs) in a prospective,
single-center study, conducted at the Clinic of Neurology, UCCS, between January 2022 and
October 2024. The serological responses were measured using the spike receptor-binding
domain (RBD) Architect SARS-CoV-2 IgG Quant kit (Abbot), and cellular responses were
measured by quantifying IFN-γ secretion in blood incubated with SARS-CoV-2 antigens.
Results: A total of 58.2% (53/91) of PwMS on ocrelizumab and 100% of the HCs (42/42)
were seropositive after a second or booster vaccination (p < 0.001), irrespective of the
vaccine brand received. Anti-spike antibody levels were significantly lower in PwMS
on ocrelizumab compared to the HCs (p < 0.001), again irrespective of the vaccine type.
Interferon-γ responses were detected in 95.6% of the PwMS receiving ocrelizumab therapy
and 97.6% of HCs after vaccination (p = 0.570). In our cohort, PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2
infections after vaccination occurred in a similar proportion of the PwMS (45/91, 49.5%)
and HCs (15/32, 46.9%) (p = 0.139). Most of the PwMS (36/45, 79.2%) and HCs (13/15,
87.8%) had COVID-19 of mild severity. Conclusions: PwMS treated with ocrelizumab
developed diminished humoral and robust cellular responses following two and three
SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations. The obtained immunity after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination may
translate into lower incidence and severity of COVID-19
A scoping review of the health effects of fermented foods in specific human populations and their potential role in precision nutrition: current knowledge and gaps
No full textBackground: Diets and specific foods have a significant impact on health, and
individual responses to nutritional factors vary. This variability among humans
can be considered a basis for developing personalized or precision nutrition.
Fermented foods (FF) contain a wide range of macro- and micronutrients,
bioactive compounds, and live or dead microorganisms. FF represent a diverse
range of products and have garnered significant interest due to their potential
health benefits. However, consistent evidence remains limited, possibly due to
heterogeneity in individual responses.
Objectives: The objective of this review is to assess and compile existing
evidence on the variable responses of populations to FF and to determine
whether FF could be integrated into a precision nutrition strategy.
Design: Interventional and observational human studies were systematically
collected. The publication identified the main factors likely to contribute
to variable responses to FF across all health outcomes. The question was
systematically addressed to assess the available evidence and identify knowledge gaps, guiding future research. A pragmatic approach was employed, following
EFSA health claim guidelines, which require an assessment of food characteristics
and mechanisms of action, as well as conducting a systematic search of human
interventional studies. A similar approach was used to analyze data extracted
from observational studies. The population included all humans (healthy and
non-healthy, of all ages), encompassing both observational and interventional
studies. The intervention consisted of the ingestion of any FF, while the control
was defined as the absence or lower consumption of FF or consumption of
a corresponding non-FF. Outcomes included all markers of the population’s
health status.
Results: The main factors contributing to variable responses to FF across all
health outcomes were related to initial phenotypic characteristics (biological sex,
geographical origin, hormonal status, and age), baseline health status [metabolic
syndrome [MetS], chronic metabolic pathologies, cancer, and psychological
disorders], and genetic background. Additionally, since the gut microbiota is
person-specific and influences metabolic responses, particular attention was
paid to its functions and role in the variability of population responses to FF.
Conclusion: Collectively, this review represents a first step toward evaluating the
feasibility of using FF in tailored nutritional strategies
Microplastics as a vector tributyltin intake in zebrafish: effects on genotoxicity
No full textTributyltin (TBT) is a widespread contaminant in both marine and freshwater ecosystems, mainly due to its use in boat antifouling paints. TBT is highly toxic and has both endocrine disrupting and genotoxic effects. Due to its hydrophobic nature, like many other environmental pollutants, it has a strong affinity to adhere to microplastics (MP). MP particles are widely distributed in the environment and have numerous harmful effects on organisms, including direct and indirect genotoxic effects. Although the genotoxic effects of both pollutants are well described, their combined effects have only been studied to a limited extent. The aim of this study was to investigate whether simultaneous exposure to TBT and MP affects genotoxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio). The experimental setup consisted of twelve aquaria divided into four groups with three aquaria per group. Each aquarium contained fifteen fish. The fish were exposed to four different food treatments: (CTRL) a control diet without additives; (MP) microplastic-enriched diet; (TBT) TBT-enriched diet alone; and (TBT+MP) diet with TBT-adsorbed microplastics. Alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay) was performed to evaluate the genotoxic effects. Tail intensity was used as the primary parameter to compare the extent of DNA damage
among the four experimental groups. The results showed a statistically significant difference in the MP group compared to the CTRL group and in the TBT group compared to the CTRL group. In contrast, no statistically significant difference was found between the TBT+MP group and the CTRL group. In
addition, the statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the TBT and TBT+MP groups, while no significant difference was found between the MP and TBT+MP groups. These results suggest that when fish are exposed to a diet containing TBT-adsorbed microplastics, the genotoxic effects of TBT
are attenuated while the effects of microplastics predominate.The 4th Congress of Geneticists in Bosnia and Herzegovina with International Participation; 2025 Oct 2-4; Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo: Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Sarajevo ; 2025. (Genetics & Applications; Special ed.)
Comparative analysis of honeybees (Apis mellifera) and bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) as environmental indicators of potentially toxic elements contamination
No full textUnderstanding the movement of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) through ecological compartments remains a major challenge in environmental pollution research. We applied in situ sampling of soil, Salvia nemorosa (roots, leaves, and flowers), and two pollinator species—Apis mellifera and Bombus terrestris to trace the exposure pathway of PTEs from soil to pollinators, simultaneously exploring the potential of bumblebees alongside honeybees as bioindicator species. This approach provides a more comprehensive and realistic assessment of element transfer in terrestrial ecosystems.
Sampling was conducted in both polluted mining sites (Mining and Metallurgical Complex Bor) and unpolluted natural areas. Concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Li, Ni, Pb, and Zn were determined using ICP-OAES and metallothionein gene expression in honeybees was assessed as a biomarker of PTE exposure.
Results revealed distinct accumulation patterns and exposure pathways between pollinators. Li, Fe, Zn, and Cu were primarily accumulated via plants, whereas Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cr were mainly introduced through atmospheric deposition. S. nemorosa efficiently accumulated PTEs, facilitating their transfer to pollinators via pollen and floral tissues. A. mellifera demonstrated greater efficacy and stability as bioindicators, while B. terrestris was more suited as a sensitive indicator of local pollution. Strong positive correlations in element concentrations between both species support their combined use in biomonitoring.
This study highlights the value of a multi-organism, integrative approach to environmental monitoring. By tracking the full pathway of pollutant transfer from soil to pollinators, the study underscores the critical role pollinators play in assessing the ecological impacts of mining-related pollution
Multidimensional perspective of flower color polymorphism in Iris pumila
No full textFlower colors and color patterns are mediators between plants and pollinators. While differences in flower color between different species (inter-specific polymorphism) are common, color variations within the same species (intra-specific polymorphism) are relatively rare and mostly attributed to balancing selection. The dwarf bearded iris (Iris pumila L.) shows a striking variation of flower color in shades of purple and blue, accompanied by
yellow and infrequent white flowers. Multiple aspects of I. pumila flower color polymorphism were investigated by a combination of spectrophotometric reflectance analysis, biochemical profiling of pigments, and modeling in relevant colorspaces. Flower color is therefore interpreted in different ways: as a spectrum of reflected electromagnetic radiation and as distinct composition of relevant pigments – an objective qualification, and as perception of reflectance spectrum by humans and by pollinators – a species-specific qualification. The reflectance spectra were measured using the JAZ spectrophotometer on the perianth tepals,
revealing significant differences in brightness, hue and saturation descriptors (colorimetric
variables) among color morphs, which were classified into seven clearly distinguishable groups according to human judgment: three shades of purple, three shades of blue, and yellow (the number of color classes in previous studies varied between three and nine). Biochemical assays, based on LC-HRMS/MS analysis identified and quantified flavonoids and anthocyanins responsible for pigment diversity among the color morphs and among the shades of each major color, by comparing them with standard compounds and literature data. For the most part, the composition did not differ between color morphs, and the different colors were predominantly represented by different concentrations of the pigments studied. Since color is a property of species-specific visual perception, the difference between two colors that is distinguishable to a human may not be distinguishable to a pollinator. The dwarf bearded iris is mainly pollinated by Hymenoptera, most frequently by bumblebees. To evaluate visual perception and visual discrimination by pollinators and humans, quantum catches were estimated, converted into appropriate colorspaces and visualized. Flower color was modeled using both the Hexagon model of Chittka and human CIEXYZ and CIELAB colorspaces. Results showed that spectral signals are distinctly positioned in hymenopteran colorspace, suggesting potential differentiation in pollinator attraction as measured by distance estimation. The integration of physical, biochemical and perceptual data highlights the complex, multidimensional nature of I. pumila flower color and provides a first insight into the potential evolutionary pressures shaping flower color traits.Abstract Book: Congress of the European Sociey for Evolutionary Biology; 2025 Aug 17-22; Barcelona, Spain. European Society for Evolutionary Biology; 2025. p. 1617
Identification of Y-chromosome turnover in newts fails to support a sex chromosome origin for the Triturus balanced lethal system
No full textNon-recombining regions often have profound effects on genome evolution, resulting in structures such as sex chromosomes and supergenes. Amongst the strangest examples are balanced lethal systems, such as that found in newts of the genus Triturus. These systems halve reproductive output, and the evolution of such a deleterious trait is difficult to explain. For Triturus, an intriguing model proposes that the balanced lethal system evolved from an ancestral Y-chromosome. To test this hypothesis, we identify the Y-chromosome of Triturus and verify whether it, or the balanced lethal system, is homologous to the Y-chromosome of its sister genus Lissotriton, which does not possess the balanced lethal system. We identify a set of candidate Y-linked markers in Triturus ivanbureschi and validate the male specificity of the markers in all major clades of Triturus. We place the Y-linked markers on a high-density linkage map of T. ivanbureschi that we construct with 7,233 RADseq markers. We then place both the Triturus and Lissotriton Y-linked regions within previously constructed target capture linkage maps that include genes linked to the balanced lethal system. We observe that neither the Triturus balanced lethal system, nor the Triturus Y-chromosome are homologous to the Lissotriton Y-chromosome. This is the first molecular evidence of a transition between Y-chromosome systems within salamanders. However, unless additional sex chromosome turnover events are involved, our data does not support a sex chromosome origin of the balanced lethal system
New Evidence for Cotinus coggygria Scop. Extracts Application in Gastrointestinal Ailments
No full textBackground/Objectives: Cotinus coggygria Scop. is traditionally used for treatment of various gastrointestinal ailments. In this study, we investigated the phytochemical profile and biological activities of leaves, bark and flowers extracts of C. coggygria. Methods: Phytochemical analysis was performed using HPLC. The antimicrobial activity of water and methanolic extracts of C. coggygria leaves, bark and flowers towards various oral fungal and bacterial strains of clinical origin was tested by use of a microdilution assay. Additionally, their cytotoxic activity was determined against different gastrointestinal carcinoma cell lines (CAL27, FaDu, SW480, HCT116 and MRC-5) in concentrations ranging from 3.125 to 400 µg/mL for 48 and 72 h. Results: The presence of numerous flavonoid and phenolic compounds such as sulfuretin, gallic acid, rutin, hyperoside, and isoquercitrine was detected. Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus parasanguinis, and Candida tropicalis were the most sensitive microbiological species, with MICs of 0.12 mg/mL for the most effective extracts. Additionally, the cytotoxic activity of the samples against different gastrointestinal carcinoma cell lines (CAL27, FaDu, SW480, HCT116, and MRC-5) was determined in concentrations ranging from 3.125 to 400 µg/mL. Among the tested samples, the methanolic leaf extract exhibited the highest cytotoxic capacity, and the possible mechanism could be related to its inhibitory effect on the release of proinflammatory cytokine in CD4+ cells. Conclusions: The traditional use of C. coggygria for gastrointestinal diseases may be substantiated by its ability to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and its promising cytotoxic properties. The methanolic leaf and flower extracts show significant potential for future clinical applications, and further studies are warranted to explore their mechanisms and applications in medical treatments