Infection by zika virus increase angiotensin I-converting enzyme activity in mouse brain.

Congenital zika virus syndrome (CZS) has become a significant worldwide concern since the sudden rise of microcephaly related to zika virus (ZIKV) in Brazil. Primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, ZIKV shares serologic similarities with dengue virus (DENV), complicating the diagnosis and/or clinical management. The Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme (ACE) was associated with either neuroprotective or anti-inflammatory properties in the central nervous system (CNS). The possible role(s) of ACE in these two flaviviruses infection remain largely unexplored. In this study, we evaluate ACE activity in the brain of ZIKV- or DENV-infected mice, both compared to MOCK, showing about 30 % increased ACE activity only in ZIKV-infected mice (p = 0.024), while no change was noticed in brain from DENV-infected animals (p = 0.888). In addition, the treatment with interferon beta (IFNß), under conditions previously demonstrated to rescue the normal size of microcephalic brains determined by ZIKV infection, also restored ACE activity in ZIKV-infected animals to levels close to that of the MOCK control group. Although inflammatory responses expected for either ZIKV or DENV infections, only ZIKV was associated with microcephaly, as well as with increased ACE activity and reversion by treatment with IFNß. Furthermore, this increase in ACE activity was observed only after intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection (F (2, 16) = 7.907, p = 0.004), but not for intraperitoneal (IP) administration of ZIKV (F (2, 26) = 1.996, p = 0.156), suggesting that the observed central ACE activity modulation may be associated with the presence of this specific flavivirus in the brain.

Optimization of enzymatic production of anti-skin aging biopeptides from white sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench] grain.

Recently, kafirins from white sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench] grain have shown promise as a source of biopeptides with anti-skin aging effects (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and inhibition of photoaging-associated enzymes). This study employed response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the extraction and enzymatic hydrolysis of kafirins (KAF) for the production of peptides with anti-skin aging properties. The optimization of conditions (reaction time and enzyme/substrate ratio) for liquefaction with α-amylase and hydrolysis of KAF with alcalase was performed using 32 complete factorial designs. Subsequently, ultrafiltered peptide extracts were obtained with molecular weights of 1-3 kDa (KAF-UF3) and lower than 1 kDa (KAF-UF1), which mainly contain hydrophobic amino acids (proline, leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, and valine) and peptide fractions with molecular weights of 0.69, 1.14, and 1.87 kDa. Consequently, the peptide extracts protected immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) from ultraviolet B radiation (UVB)-induced damage by preventing the decrease and/or restoring the activity of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)]. Furthermore, KAF-UF3 and KAF-UF1 inhibited (20-29%) elastase and collagenase overactivity in UVB-exposed murine fibroblasts (3T3 cells). Thus, KAF-UF3 and KAF-UF1 exhibited behavior similar to that observed with glutathione (GSH), suggesting their potential as functional peptide ingredients in skincare products.

Naphthalene and phenanthrene affect differentially two glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) expression, GST activity, and glutathione content in white shrimp P. vannamei.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants ubiquitous in coastal ecosystems. The white shrimp Penaeus vannamei naturally inhabits in coastal areas and is cultivated in farms located nearby the oceans. PAHs can damage shrimp health, endanger natural populations, and lower shrimp aquaculture productivity. However, crustaceans have enzymes capable of metabolizing organic xenobiotics as PAHs and to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during xenobiotics metabolism. An important superfamily of xenobiotic-metabolizing and antioxidant enzymes are glutathione S-transferases (GSTs). In white shrimp, some GSTs are known, but they have been scarcely studied in response to PAHs. In this study we report the molecular cloning and bioinformatic characterization of two novel nucleotide sequences corresponding to cytosolic GSTs belonging the Delta and Theta classes (GSTD and GSTT). Both proteins genes have tissue-specific patterns of expression under normal conditions, that do not necessarily relate to GST activity and glutathione content. The expression of the GSTD and GSTT, GST activity and glutathione content was analyzed in juvenile P. vannamei exposed to two PAHs, naphthalene (NAP) and phenanthrene (PHE) in sub-lethal concentrations for 96 h. GSTD expression was up-regulated by the two PAHs, while GSTT expression was only induced by NAP. In contrast, GST activity towards CDNB was only up-regulated by PHE, suggesting differential effects of PAHs at gene and protein level. On the other hand, lower reduced glutathione content (GSH) caused by PAHs indicates its utilization for detoxification or antioxidant defenses. However, the GSH/GSSG did not change by PAHs treatment, indicating that shrimp can maintain redox balance during short-term sub-lethal exposure to NAP and PHE. Despite the variations in the responses to NAP and PHE, all these results suggest that the GSTD and GSTT genes could be useful biomarkers for PAH exposure in P. vannamei.

NaCl Modifies Biochemical Traits in Bacterial Endophytes Isolated from Halophytes: Towards Salinity Stress Mitigation Using Consortia.

Bacterial endophytes (120) were isolated from six halophytes (Distichlis spicata, Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis obtusiflora, Suaeda torreyana, Kochia scoparia, and Baccharis salicifolia). These halophiles were molecularly identified and characterized with or without NaCl conditions. Characterization was based on tests such as indole acetic acid (IAA), exopolysaccharides (EPS), and siderophores (SID) production; solubilization of phosphate (P), potassium (K), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn); mineralization of phytate; enzymatic activity (acid and alkaline phosphatase, phytases, xylanases, and chitinases) and the mineralization/solubilization mechanisms involved (organic acids and sugars). Moreover, compatibility among bacteria was assessed. Eleven halophiles were characterized as highly tolerant to NaCl (2.5 M). The bacteria isolated were all different from each other. Two belonged to Bacillus velezensis and one to B. pumilus while the rest of bacteria were identified up to the genus level as belonging to Bacillus, Halobacillus, Halomonas, Pseudomonas, Nesterenkonia, and three strains of Oceanobacillus. The biochemical responses of nutrient solubilization and enzymatic activity were different between bacteria and were influenced by the presence of NaCl. Organic acids were involved in P mineralization and nutrient solubilization. Tartaric acid was common in the solubilization of P, Zn, and K. Maleic and vanillic acid were only detected in Zn and K solubilization, respectively. Furthermore, sugars appeared to be involved in the solubilization of nutrients; fructose was detected in the solubilization tests. Therefore, these biochemical bacterial characteristics should be corroborated in vivo and tested as a consortium to mitigate saline stress in glycophytes under a global climate change scheme that threatens to exacerbate soil salinity.

Hydrolysis of Casein by Pepsin Immobilized on Heterofunctional Supports to Produce Antioxidant Peptides.

A study was carried out on the immobilization of pepsin in activated carbon functionalized by different techniques (glutaraldehyde, genipin, and metallization) aiming at its application in obtaining bioactive peptides through casein hydrolysis. Studies of the immobilized derivatives were carried out in addition to the evaluation of the antioxidant potential of the peptides. Among the pH range studied, pH 3.0 was selected due to the higher activity of the derivatives at this pH. The support modification by metallization was the method with the best results, providing a 121% increase in enzymatic activity compared to other immobilization methods. In addition, this derivative provided activity closer to the soluble enzyme activity (3.30 U) and better storage stability, and allows reuse for more than 8 cycles. In turn, the peptides from casein hydrolysis showed potential as antioxidant agents, with a DPPH radical scavenging activity higher than 70%, maximum protection against ß-carotene oxidation close to 70%, and a maximum reducing power of Fe(III) into Fe(II) of 400 uM by the FRAP assay. The results showed that the new techniques for modification of activated carbon can be a promising approach for pepsin immobilization.

Effect of temporal thermal stress on Penaeus vannamei: Growth performance and physiological plasticity.

The present study evaluated the effect of temporal periods of hypothermia and hyperthermia, followed by an optimal temperature recovery phase on the growth, survival, and physiological response of Penaeus vannamei. Post-larvae were exposed to stress periods for 7 and 14 days at 22 °C and 32 °C each, followed by a recovery phase at 28 °C to complete seven experimental weeks, and were compared with a control group maintained at 28 °C. Weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and survival were weekly determined. Muscle, hepatopancreas, and hemolymph were sampled on the 14th day of the recovery phase for biochemical composition, and antioxidant and digestive enzyme activities determination. The shrimp presented a higher growth rate during short-term hyperthermia in contrast to shrimp under hypothermia that presented compensatory growth after thermal stress when the temperature was restored at 28 °C. Hyperthermia increased 12-13% the feed intake while this was diminished 21-29% by the hypothermia periods. Shrimp undergo metabolic adjustments following thermal stress, with short hypothermia increasing the lipase activity and lipid storage in the hepatopancreas, while short hyperthermia also enhances chymotrypsin activity and leads to higher protein and lipid accumulation. Conversely, prolonged hyperthermia induces greater energy consumption, depleting lipid and glycogen stores, while hypothermia causes scarce mobilization of energy reserves during recovery phase. Antioxidant enzyme activities were not affected by short-thermal stress (7d), while prolonged thermal stress (14d) significantly affected SOD, CAT, and GPx activities. The present study provides important insights into the physiological plasticity of P. vannamei during recovery from thermal stress.

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation: Impact on growth, metabolism, and antioxidant status in zebrafish.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a valuable model for biomedical research because of its mammalian genetic similarities, rapid reproduction, and low maintenance costs. However, further investigation is required regarding their nutritional requirements and standardized laboratory diets. This study evaluated the metabolic and growth responses of zebrafish juveniles fed on diets supplemented with spirulina, Arthrospira platensis (SP) at different levels for 77 days. Six diets with SP inclusion levels of 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% (SP0-SP10) were formulated. A total of 300 zebrafish juveniles with an average initial weight of 0.113 ± 0.10 g (mean ± SD) were randomly distributed across six groups, with five replicates per group, each containing 10 animals. After 77 days, the SP6 group demonstrated significantly enhanced growth performance compared with the other supplementation levels. The condition factor was markedly higher in the SP6 and SP8 groups than in the SP0 group. No significant effects on total cholesterol levels were observed, but the SP4, SP6, and SP10 diets decreased triglyceride levels. Lipase activity was higher in the SP6 and SP8 groups than in the control group, whereas amylase activity showed no significant differences between treatments. Catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly higher in the SP8 and SP10 groups than in the SP0 and SP2 groups. Glutathione S-transferase activity was higher in the SP6, SP8, and SP10 groups than in the SP0 group. In addition, SP inclusion in zebrafish diets improved female gonadal development. In conclusion, this study indicates that SP supplementation has substantial potential as a growth promoter, positively influencing lipid metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activity without affecting zebrafish survival.

Using Carbon Nanotubes to Improve Enzyme Activity and Electroactivity of Fatty Acid Langmuir-Blodgett Film-Incorporated Galactose Oxidase for Sensing and Energy Storage Applications.

Incorporating enzymes into nanostructured supercapacitor devices represents a groundbreaking advancement in energy storage. Enzyme catalysis using nanomaterials enhances performance, efficiency, and stability by facilitating precise charge transfer, while the nanostructure provides a high surface area and improved conductivity. This synergy yields eco-friendly, high-performance energy storage solutions crucial for diverse applications, from portable electronics to renewable energy systems. In this study, we harnessed the versatility of Langmuir-Blodgett films to create meticulously organized thin films with specific enzyme properties, coupled with carbon nanotubes, to develop biosupercapacitors. Langmuir monolayers were constructed with stearic acid, carbon nanotubes, and galactose oxidase. Following comprehensive characterization using tensiometric, rheological, morphological, and spectroscopic techniques, the monolayers were transferred to solid supports, yielding Langmuir-Blodgett films. These films exhibited superior performance, with persisting enzyme activity. However, increasing film thickness did not enhance enzymatic activity values, indicating a surface-driven process. Subsequently, we explored the electrochemical properties of the films, revealing stability compatible with supercapacitor applications. The introduction of carbon nanotubes demonstrated a higher capacitance, indicating the potential viability of the films for energy storage applications.

Temperature-dependent effects of microplastics on sediment bacteriome and metabolome.

The increasing prevalence of microplastics in the environment has become a concern for various ecosystems, including wetland ecosystems. Here, we investigated the effects of three popular microplastic types: polyethylene, polylactic acid, and tire particles at 5 °C and 25 °C on the sediment microbiome and metabolome at the 3% (w/w) level. Results indicated that temperature greatly influenced catalase and neutral phosphatase activities, whereas the type of microplastic had a more significant impact on urease and dehydrogenase activities. The addition of microplastic, especially tire particles, increased microbial diversity and significantly altered the microbial community structure and metabolic profile, leading to the formation of different clusters of microbial communities depending on the temperature. Nonetheless, the effect of temperature on the metabolite composition was less significant. Functional prediction showed that the abundance of functional genes related to metabolism and biogeochemical cycling increased with increasing temperature, especially the tire particles treatment group affected the nitrogen cycling by inhibiting ureolysis and nitrogen fixation. These observations emphasize the need to consider microplastic type and ambient temperature to fully understand the ecological impact of microplastics on microbial ecosystems.

Actividades enzimáticas séricas de la ceruplasmina y la mieloperoxidasa en diabéticos tipo 2

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 se caracteriza por la hiperglucemia debido a la insuficiente producción de insulina de las células β. La mieloperoxidasa promueve el estrés oxidativo durante la inflamación y la ceruloplasmina se considera su inhibidor endógeno. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre la ceruloplasmina y la mieloperoxidasa, determinadas simultáneamente en el suero de pacientes diabéticos tipo 2. Métodos: Se estudiaron 362 pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 y 110 sujetos sanos. La actividad sérica de la ceruloplasmina se determinó por el método de Siotto; y el de la mieloperoxidasa, por el de Kraeisz. Resultados: El 72 % de los pacientes diabéticos tenían hiperglucemia y el 77 % presentaba obesidad abdominal. Las actividades de ambas enzimas se incrementaron significativamente en relación con el grupo control. El coeficiente de correlación de la actividad enzimática resultó bajo. El cociente RMPO/CP de los pacientes diabéticos superó el de los controles. La ceruloplasmina no inhibió la mieloperoxidasa. Conclusiones: Predominó la mieloperoxidasa, por tanto, no se manifestó el efecto inhibitorio de la ceruloplasmina. La elevada actividad de la mieloperoxidasa se asocia con un agravamiento del cuadro clínico del paciente diabético.

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin production by β cells. Myeloperoxidase promotes oxidative stress during inflammation and ceruloplasmin is considered its endogenous inhibitor. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between ceruloplasmin and myeloperoxidase, determined simultaneously in the serum of type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: A total of 362 type 2 diabetic patients and 110 healthy subjects were studied. Serum ceruloplasmin activity was determined by the Siotto KM method and myeloperoxidase by the Kraeisz JE method. Results: 72% of diabetic patients had hyperglycemia and 77% had abdominal obesity. The activities of both enzymes were significantly increased relative to the control group. The correlation coefficient of enzyme activity was low. The ORMO/CP ratio of diabetic patients exceeded that of controls. Ceruloplasmin did not inhibit myeloperoxidase. Conclusions: Myeloperoxidase predominated, therefore, the inhibitory effect of ceruloplasmin was not manifested. The high activity of myeloperoxidase was associated with a worsening of the clinical picture of the diabetic patient.

A Simple Validated Method for the Estimation of Pepsin Activity in Microtiter Array for the INFOGEST Protocol.

The INFOGEST protocol has been widely used as a static in-vitro simulation of gastrointestinal food digestion for bioaccessibility assessments on bioactive compounds. The standardization of the activity of several enzymes, such as pepsin, via UV-spectrophotometry of digested hemoglobin at 280 nm is a key step in the protocol. Standardization is a crucial stage since it is necessary to determine the quantity of enzyme to be added to the sample for digestion. However, this method is yet to be analytically validated; it requires quartz cuvettes and large volumes of samples and is time-consuming. Thus, we reviewed and adapted a well-known colorimetric method in microplates array by using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, and this study is the first to report for miniaturization of this method, the advantages of which include its automation, ease of use, the low volume of samples required, the minimal use of reagents, and speed. This method was compared to the traditional UV method, and the comparison results show no statistical difference between the inter day means for each group (p > 0.05). The proposed method was validated, showing high reproducibility (8% as inter-day CV) and statistically comparable results with the traditional UV spectrophotometric method.

Susceptibility of Cu(I) transport ATPases to sodium dodecyl sulfate. Relevance of the composition of the micellar phase.

Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is a well-known protein denaturing agent. A less known property of this detergent is that it can activate or inactivate some enzymes at sub-denaturing concentrations. In this work we explore the effect of SDS on the ATPase activity of a hyper-thermophilic and a mesophilic Cu(I) ATPases reconstituted in mixed micelles of phospholipids and a non-denaturing detergent. An iterative procedure was used to evaluate the partition of SDS between the aqueous and the micellar phases, allowing to determine the composition of micelles prepared from phospholipid/detergent mixtures. The incubation of enzymes with SDS in the presence of different amounts of phospholipids reveals that higher SDS concentrations are required to obtain the same degree of inactivation when the initial concentration of phospholipids is increased. Remarkably, we found that, if represented as a function of the mole fraction of SDS in the micelle, the degree of inactivation obtained at different amounts of amphiphiles converges to a single inactivation curve. To interpret this result, we propose a simple model involving active and inactive enzyme molecules in equilibrium. This model allowed us to estimate the Gibbs free energy change for the inactivation process and its derivative with respect to the mole fraction of SDS in the micellar phase, the latter being a measure of the susceptibility of the enzyme to SDS. Our results showed that the inactivation free energy changes are similar for both proteins. Conversely, susceptibility to SDS is significantly lower for the hyperthermophilic ATPase, suggesting an inverse relation between thermophilicity and susceptibility to SDS.

Insights into diversity and L-asparaginase activity of fungal endophytes associated with medicinal plant Grewia hirsuta.

L-asparaginase is used as one of the prime chemotherapeutic agents to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The present work aimed to study the endophytic fungal diversity of Grewia hirsuta and their ability to produce L-asparaginase. A total of 1575 culturable fungal endophytes belonging to four classes, Agaricomycetes, Dothideomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, and Sordariomycetes, were isolated. The isolates were grouped into twenty-one morphotypes based on their morphological characteristics. Representative species from each group were identified based on their microscopic characteristics and evaluation of the ITS and LSU rDNA sequences. Most of the fungal endophytes were recovered from the leaves compared to other plant parts. Diaporthe sp. was the predominant genus with a colonization frequency of 8.62%. Shannon-Wiener index for diversity ranged from 2.74 to 2.88. All the plant parts showed similar Simpson's index values, indicating a uniform species diversity. Among the sixty-three fungal endophytes screened, thirty-two were identified as L-asparaginase-producing isolates. The enzyme activities of fungal endophytes estimated by the nesslerization method were found to be in the range of 4.65-0.27 IU/mL with Fusarium foetens showing maximum enzyme activity of 4.65 IU/mL. This study for the first time advocates the production of L-asparaginase from Fusarium foetens along with the endophytic fungal community composition of Grewia hirsuta. The results indicate that the fungal endophyte Fusarium foetens isolated in the present study could be a potent source of L-asparaginase.

Convergent Adaptation of Multiple Herbicide Resistance to Auxin Mimics and ALS- and EPSPS-Inhibitors in Brassica rapa from North and South America.

Herbicide-resistant weeds have been identified and recorded on every continent where croplands are available. Despite the diversity of weed communities, it is of interest how selection has led to the same consequences in distant regions. Brassica rapa is a widespread naturalized weed that is found throughout temperate North and South America, and it is a frequent weed among winter cereal crops in Argentina and in Mexico. Broadleaf weed control is based on glyphosate that is used prior to sowing and sulfonylureas or mimic auxin herbicides that are used once the weeds have already emerged. This study was aimed at determining whether a convergent phenotypic adaptation to multiple herbicides had occurred in B. rapa populations from Mexico and Argentina by comparing the herbicide sensitivity to inhibitors of the acetolactate synthase (ALS), 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSPS), and auxin mimics. Five B. rapa populations were analyzed from seeds collected in wheat fields in Argentina (Ar1 and Ar2) and barley fields in Mexico (Mx1, Mx2 and MxS). Mx1, Mx2, and Ar1 populations presented multiple resistance to ALS- and EPSPS-inhibitors and to auxin mimics (2,4-D, MCPA, and fluroxypyr), while the Ar2 population showed resistance only to ALS-inhibitors and glyphosate. Resistance factors ranged from 947 to 4069 for tribenuron-methyl, from 1.5 to 9.4 for 2,4-D, and from 2.7 to 42 for glyphosate. These were consistent with ALS activity, ethylene production, and shikimate accumulation analyses in response to tribenuron-methyl, 2,4-D, and glyphosate, respectively. These results fully support the evolution of the multiple- and cross-herbicide resistance to glyphosate, ALS-inhibitors, and auxinic herbicides in B. rapa populations from Mexico and Argentina.

Potential impacts of seasonal and altitudinal changes on enzymatic peat decomposition in the High Andean Paramo region of Ecuador.

The Andean Paramo is a vast ecosystem, characterized by distinct vegetational zones at several altitudinal levels with huge water storage and carbon fixation capacity within its peat-like andosols, due to a slow decomposition rate of organic matter. These characteristics become mutually related as enzymatic activities increase with temperature and are associated with oxygen penetration, restricting the activity of many hydrolytic enzymes according to the enzyme Latch Theory. This study describes the changing activity of sulfatase (Sulf), phosphatase (Phos), n-acetyl-glucosaminidase (N-Ac), cellobiohydrolase (Cellobio), ß-glucosidase (ß-Glu), and peroxidase (POX) on an altitudinal scale from 3600 to 4200 m, in rainy and dry seasons at 10 and 30 cm sampling depth, related to physical and chemical soil characteristics, like metals and organic elements. Linear fixed-effect models were established to analyze these environmental factors to determine distinct decomposition patterns. The data suggests a strong tendency towards decreasing enzyme activities at higher altitudes and in the dry season up to two-fold stronger activation for Sulf, Phos, Cellobio, and ß-Glu. Especially the lowest altitude showed considerably stronger activity of N-Ac, ß-Glu, and POX. Although sampling depth revealed significant differences for all hydrolases but Cellobio, it had minor effects on model outcomes. Further organic rather than physical or metal components of the soil explain the enzyme activity variations. Although the levels of phenols coincided mostly with the soil organic carbon content, there was no direct relation between hydrolases, POX activity, and phenolic substances. The outcome suggests that slight environmental changes with global warming might cause important changes in enzyme activities leading to increased organic matter decomposition at the borderline between the paramo region and downslope ecosystems. Expected extremer dry seasons could cause critical changes as aeration increases peat decomposition leading to a constant liberation of carbon stocks, which puts the paramo region and its ecosystem services in great danger.

Respostas fisiológicas e enzimáticas no milho sob diferentes concentrações de nitrogênio / Physiological and enzymatic responses in maize under different nitrogen concentrations

O estudo de aspectos químicos e bioquímicos associados ao desenvolvimento das diferentes partesdas plantas permite a observação e o entendimento de uma série de reações que levam à produção de fitomassa e grãos pela cultura de milho. Assim, objetivou-se estudar a diferença na eficiência de uso do nitrogênio nas raízes e parte aérea em dois genótipos de milho, na fase inicial de crescimento das plantas e avaliar as respostas bioquímico-fisiológicas desses órgãos quando as plantas são submetidas a distintas doses de N em condições hidropônicas. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, em solução nutritiva por20 dias, com dois genótipos (AS1522 e AS1596) submetidos a quatro concentrações de N (zero; 112; 224 e 448 mg dm-3). O delineamento utilizado foi em inteiramente casualizado com trêsrepetições. Houve diferença entre os genótipos estudados para as variáveis biométricas, massa de matéria seca, acúmulo de N e aminoácidos livres totais na parte aérea das plantas. Na raiz, a atividade da redutase do nitrato foi a variável que diferenciou a eficiência no uso do nitrogênio entre os genótipos. O genótipo AS1596 é mais eficiente no uso do nitrogênio.(AU)

The study of chemical and biochemical aspects associated with the development of different plant parts enables the assessment of a series of reactions leading to the production of biomass and grain culture. Thus, the objective of was to study the difference in nitrogen efficiency in roots and shoots of two corn genotypes in the initial stages of plants growth, and evaluate the biochemical and physiological responses of these organs, when plants are subjected to different doses of N, under hydroponic conditions. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in nutrient solution for 20 days, with two genotypes(AS1522 and AS1596) subjected to four N concentrations (zero, 112, 224 and 448 mg dm-3). Completely randomized desing with three replications das apply. The major differences among genotypes for biometric variables, dry matter, Nac cumulation and free amino acids were observed in the shoots. At root, the activity of nitrate reductase activity was the variable that stood out and provided the largest differences between genotypes. The genotype AS1596 is more efficient in N utilization.(AU)

Comparative proteome and volatile metabolome analysis of Aspergillus oryzae 3.042 and Aspergillus sojae 3.495 during koji fermentation.

Aspergillus oryzae 3.042 and Aspergillus sojae 3.495 are crucial starters for fermented soybean foods since their abundant secreted enzymes. This study aimed to compare the differences in protein secretion between A. oryzae 3.042 and A. sojae 3.495 during the soy sauce koji fermentation and the effect on volatile metabolites to understand the fermentation characteristics of the strains better. Label-free proteomics detected 210 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) enriched in amino acid metabolism and protein folding, sorting and degradation pathways. Subsequently, extracellular enzyme analysis showed that three peptidases, including peptide hydrolase, dipeptidyl aminopeptidase, and peptidase S41, were up-regulated in A. sojae 3.495. Seven carbohydrases, including α-galactosidase, endo-arabinase, ß-glucosidase, α-galactosidase, α-glucuronidase, arabinan-endo 1,5-α-l-arabinase, and endo-1,4-ß-xylanase were up-regulated in A. oryzae 3.042, contributing to the difference in enzyme activity. Significantly different extracellular enzymes influenced the content of volatile alcohols, aldehydes and esters such as (R, R)-2,3-butanediol, 1-hexanol, hexanal, decanal, ethyl l-lactate and methyl myristate in both strains, which affected the type of aroma of koji. Overall, this study revealed the differences in molecular mechanisms between A. oryzae 3.042 and A. sojae 3.495 under solid-state fermentation, providing a reference for targeted enhancement strains.

Body composition, growth performance and enzyme activities of Labeo rohita fed different commercial fish feeds / Composição corporal, desempenho de crescimento e atividades enzimáticas de diferentes alimentos para peixes comerciais alimentados por Labeo rohita

We have evaluated the effects of different fish feeds on the body composition, growth, and enzyme activities of Labeo rohita (Rohu). In total, 240 fishes between the average weights of 24.77±2.15g were studied. The treatments were applied in a completely randomized design, with 4 treatments of 60 fishes each. Treatments consisted of four different fish feeds [Oryza (T1), AMG (T2), Aqua (T3), and Supreme (T4)]. Body composition, growth performance, and enzyme activities were evaluated. There was a significant variation in performance of fishes fed with different type of feed; as fishes having Oryza feed showed the highest weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), and best feed conversion ratio (FCR) as compared to other groups that were considered to be significant (P ≤ 0.05). High net weight gain was obtained in T4 when compared with T2 and T3. FCR value of T4 was less than T1 but higher than T2, T3 and T2, which showed the lowest values. The specific growth rate was recorded as average in T4, but T2 led a high SGR than T3. Similarly, crude protein level and digestive enzymes activity was recorded significantly highest in fed with Oryza (T1) as compared to AMG (T2), Aqua (T3), and Supreme (T4). Water quality parameters were recorded significant in all treatments except pH and DO of treatment (T1), significantly different from other treatments. It was concluded that Rohu (Labeo rohita) could show a promising growth rate and protease enzyme activity when fed with the Oryza feed of 25% protein.(AU)

Avaliamos os efeitos de diferentes alimentos para peixes em relação à composição corporal, crescimento e atividades enzimáticas de Labeo rohita (Rohu). No total, foram estudados 240 peixes com pesos médios de 24,77 ± 2,15 g. Os tratamentos foram aplicados em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos de 60 peixes cada. Os tratamentos consistiram em quatro alimentos diferentes para peixes: Oryza (T1), AMG (T2), Aqua (T3) e Supreme (T4). Foram avaliados a composição corporal, o desempenho de crescimento e as atividades enzimáticas. Houve uma variação significativa no desempenho dos peixes alimentados com diferentes tipos de ração. Peixes com alimentação Oryza apresentaram maior ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento específico (SGR) e melhor taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR) em comparação com outros grupos que foram considerados significativos (P ≤ 0,05). Elevado ganho de peso líquido foi obtido em T4 quando comparado com T2 e T3. O valor da FCR de T4 foi menor que T1, mas maior que T2 e T3, que apresentaram os menores valores. A taxa de crescimento específico foi registrada como média em T4, mas T2 teve uma SGR alta do que T3. Da mesma forma, o nível de proteína bruta e a atividade das enzimas digestivas foram registrados significativamente mais altos nos peixes alimentados com Oryza (T1) em comparação com AMG (T2), Aqua (T3) e Supreme (T4). Os parâmetros de qualidade da água foram registrados como significativos em todos os tratamentos, exceto pH e OD do tratamento (T1), significativamente diferente dos demais tratamentos. Concluiu-se que Rohu (Labeo rohita) pode apresentar uma taxa de crescimento promissora e atividade da enzima protease quando alimentado com Oryza de 25% de proteína.(AU)

Chromium supplemented carbohydrate diets for Cirrhinus mrigala: effects on body composition, gut enzyme activity and hematological parameters / Dietas com carboidratos suplementados com cromo para Cirrhinus mrigala: efeitos sobre a composição corporal, atividade enzimática intestinal e parâmetros hematológicos

A ninety days nutritional trial was directed to explore the effects of dietary chromium on body composition, gut enzyme activity and physiological status of Cirrhinus mrigala by using G & NG corn. Six experimental diets were prepared by using different levels of chromium chloride hexahydrate (0, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg, each with G & NG corn). For this experimental trial, 480 fingerlings, irrespective of sex were distributed in six aquariums each with replicate. Results revealed that gelatinized corn along with increasing level of Cr2Cl3.6H2O have a positive impact upon body composition of fish. Hematology was positively correlated with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation in gelatinized corn. Amylase gut enzyme also showed significant (P<0.05) increase in group fed with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplemented diet (G corn). However, corn with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation did not revealed any significant impact on gut protease enzyme activity. From these results it can be concluded that both chromium chloride hexahydrate and gelatinized corn in fish feed are very beneficial to improve body composition, enzymes activity and physiological health status of fish.(AU)

Um ensaio nutricional de 90 dias foi dirigido para explorar os efeitos do cromo dietético na composição corporal, atividade enzimática intestinal e estado fisiológico de Cirrhinus mrigala usando milho G & NG. Seis dietas experimentais foram preparadas usando diferentes níveis de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (0, 0,2, 0,4 mg/kg, cada um com milho G e NG). Para este ensaio experimental, 480 alevinos, independentemente do sexo, foram distribuídos em seis aquários, cada um com réplicas. Os resultados revelaram que o milho gelatinizado, juntamente com o aumento do nível de Cr2Cl3.6H2O, tem um impacto positivo na composição corporal dos peixes. A hematologia foi positivamente correlacionada com a suplementação de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado em milho gelatinizado. A enzima amilase intestinal também apresentou aumento significativo (P <0,05) no grupo alimentado com dieta suplementada com cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (milho G). No entanto, o milho com suplementação de hexahidrato de cloreto de cromo não revelou nenhum impacto significativo na atividade da enzima protease intestinal. Desses resultados, pode-se concluir que tanto o cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado quanto o milho gelatinizado na alimentação de peixes são muito benéficos para melhorar a composição corporal, a atividade de enzimas e o estado fisiológico de saúde dos peixes.(AU)

Chromium supplemented carbohydrate diets for Cirrhinus mrigala: effects on body composition, gut enzyme activity and hematological parameters / Dietas com carboidratos suplementados com cromo para Cirrhinus mrigala: efeitos sobre a composição corporal, atividade enzimática intestinal e parâmetros hematológicos

A ninety days nutritional trial was directed to explore the effects of dietary chromium on body composition, gut enzyme activity and physiological status of Cirrhinus mrigala by using G & NG corn. Six experimental diets were prepared by using different levels of chromium chloride hexahydrate (0, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg, each with G & NG corn). For this experimental trial, 480 fingerlings, irrespective of sex were distributed in six aquariums each with replicate. Results revealed that gelatinized corn along with increasing level of Cr2Cl3.6H2O have a positive impact upon body composition of fish. Hematology was positively correlated with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation in gelatinized corn. Amylase gut enzyme also showed significant (P<0.05) increase in group fed with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplemented diet (G corn). However, corn with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation did not revealed any significant impact on gut protease enzyme activity. From these results it can be concluded that both chromium chloride hexahydrate and gelatinized corn in fish feed are very beneficial to improve body composition, enzymes activity and physiological health status of fish.

Um ensaio nutricional de 90 dias foi dirigido para explorar os efeitos do cromo dietético na composição corporal, atividade enzimática intestinal e estado fisiológico de Cirrhinus mrigala usando milho G & NG. Seis dietas experimentais foram preparadas usando diferentes níveis de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (0, 0,2, 0,4 mg/kg, cada um com milho G e NG). Para este ensaio experimental, 480 alevinos, independentemente do sexo, foram distribuídos em seis aquários, cada um com réplicas. Os resultados revelaram que o milho gelatinizado, juntamente com o aumento do nível de Cr2Cl3.6H2O, tem um impacto positivo na composição corporal dos peixes. A hematologia foi positivamente correlacionada com a suplementação de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado em milho gelatinizado. A enzima amilase intestinal também apresentou aumento significativo (P <0,05) no grupo alimentado com dieta suplementada com cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (milho G). No entanto, o milho com suplementação de hexahidrato de cloreto de cromo não revelou nenhum impacto significativo na atividade da enzima protease intestinal. Desses resultados, pode-se concluir que tanto o cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado quanto o milho gelatinizado na alimentação de peixes são muito benéficos para melhorar a composição corporal, a atividade de enzimas e o estado fisiológico de saúde dos peixes.