Escola Superior de Biotecnologia
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Browsing Escola Superior de Biotecnologia by Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) "03:Saúde de Qualidade"
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- Advancing diabetes treatment: from human beta cell technology to bioartificial pancreas developmentPublication . Sá, Joana; Sá, Simone; Leménager, Hélène; Costa, Raquel; Onteniente, Brigitte; Soares, Raquel; Ribeiro, Viviana P.; Oliveira, Ana L.In 2021, approximately 537 million people worldwide, primarily in low- and middle-income countries, were affected by diabetes, leading to approximately 6.7 million deaths annually or severe secondary complications including life-threatening hyperglycemia. For nearly 50 years, current therapeutic approaches include full pancreas transplantation and isolated pancreatic islets, more recently, cell therapy such as in vitro generated islets and stem cell derived. The transplantation of pancreatic islet cells can be less invasive than full organ transplantation, however, does not achieve the same rate of functional success due to the low survival of the engrafted cells. Tissue-engineered bioartificial pancreas has been designed to address such issues, improving cell engraftment, survival, and immune rejection problems, with the added advantage that the tissue produced in vitro has an unlimited source of material.
- Assessing the antimicrobial activity of essential oils against skin microorganisms using flow cytometryPublication . Lopes, Ana I.; Oliveira, Cláudia S.; Pintado, Manuela E.; Tavaria, Freni K.The skin microbiome, composed of bacteria like Staphylococcus spp. and Cutibacterium acnes and fungi such as Candida spp. and Malasseziaspp., plays a key role in skin health (Byrd et al., 2018). Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, is linked to conditions like acne and dermatitis (Egert etal., 2017). While conventional treatments, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and antimicrobials, can help, they may disrupt the microbiome andpromote resistance (Sfriso et al., 2020).Natural alternatives like essential oils (EOs) are gaining attention due to their terpene-rich composition, which targets multiple microbial structuresand reduces resistance risk (Zuzarte et al., 2011). Flow cytometry offers a precise method to assess antimicrobial effects by distinguishing livefrom dead cells through fluorescent staining (Shapiro, 2003).
- A case study on the microbiological consequences of short supply chains in high-income countries—the consequences of good handling practices (GHPs) in vegetable outlets in PortugalPublication . Macieira, Ariana; Brandão, Teresa R. S.; Teixeira, PaulaVegetables are commodities frequently sold in local markets and have been associated with foodborne outbreaks in short and local supply outlets worldwide. These outbreaks could potentially be mitigated through the implementation of good handling practices (GHPs) at points of sale. Numerous studies have assessed microbiological contamination in small-scale vegetable outlets in developing countries. In contrast, research on these risks in developed countries is comparatively scarce. However, with the increasing demand for vegetables, along with the increasing popularity of local markets, there is potential for an increase in foodborne outbreaks in developed countries. This study aimed to perform a microbiological assessment in local and short supply chain outlets of farmers in Portugal, as a case study, and to observe behaviors regarding GHPs in these outlets. The study was performed before and after the implementation of improved GHPs. This research employed quantitative analysis to measure the microbial load on vegetables, bench surfaces, and vendors’ hands. Additionally, a qualitative analysis was conducted to understand farmers’ behavior regarding GHPs using observational methods. Microbial hazards were detected in vegetables, on surfaces, and on hands both before and after the implementation of these practices, although the implementation of GHPs reduced the number of contaminations potentially associated with the practices used at the outlets. The results of this study highlight the importance of implementing GHPs in local and short supply chain markets for vegetables and fruits in developed countries, not only to protect consumers’ health, but also the farmers’ businesses.
- Design of paper-based analytical devices for chemical and biochemical assays of biomarkers in biological fluids of non-invasive collectionPublication . Ferreira, Francisca Teixeira Soares da Mota; Mesquita, Raquel Beatriz Ribeiro de; Rangel, Antonio Osmaro Santos SilvaEnsuring basic healthcare access around the world remains a challenge, particularly in lowincome regions. In response, international initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines emphasize the need to develop innovative, accessible, and cost-effective diagnostic tools. Point-of-care testing has emerged as an ideal solution, enabling rapid and decentralized analysis. Among these type of devices, microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (µPADs) have gained attention due to their affordability, portability, and ease of use, making them a particularly valuable tool in resource-limited locations. The purpose of the work presented throughout this thesis was to design and develop innovative point-of-care methodologies based on the µPAD approach for the determination of several healthrelated parameters, that could serve as an adding tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of several health conditions. The use of biological samples of non-invasive collection, such as saliva and urine, enhances diagnostic accessibility, particularly in point-of-care settings where traditional sample collection may be impractical or even impossible. Additionally, this thesis also explores the use of colorimetric detection methods, a straightforward approach to quantifying the targeted analytes by producing visible colour changes. To further improve the specificity and accuracy of these diagnostic tools, enzymatic reactions were incorporated into some of the developed µPADs. The first developed device was dedicated to the quantification of total iron in urine samples by using the colorimetric reaction of bathophenanthroline with iron (II) coupled with hydroxylamine, a well-known reducing agent capable of converting iron (III) in iron (II). To handle the potential colour of the urine samples, a sample blank was included in the device. This feature was vital to ensure the applicability of the developed μPAD, as urine may present a wide variability of colour range, from light yellow to brownish. The determination of nitrate was also accomplished in urine samples with a newly developed µPAD. This device included the enzymatic reaction of nitrate reductase to perform the conversion of nitrate to nitrite and the Griess reagent which provided the colorimetric detection of the resulting nitrite. In order to delay the vertical flow and increase the extent of the enzymatic reaction, a hydrophilic membrane layer was also incorporated into the device. The small porosity of this membrane also led to the retention of the compound responsible for the colour of urine, enabling a direct analysis of the samples. The next devices developed performed the quantification of NHX and urea in saliva samples but with a more complex approach. Not only were the devices composed of four layers, but the detection relies on the diffusion of NH3 (g) through a gas-diffusion membrane to produce a colorimetric change of a pH indicator. The hydrophobicity of this membrane also helped eliminate possible interferences of the saliva sample in the colorimetric reaction, since it did not allow the sample to pass through the membrane and reach the colour reagent. The urea determination was accomplished by including urease in the device, since it selectively catalyzes the dissociation of urea in ammonia and carbon dioxide. The urease activity determination was accomplished using a similar structure and reactions to the one used for the urea µPAD. However, the determination itself was achieved using the kinetic capabilities of the enzyme by correlating to the urease activity with the variation of the signal obtained between two different enzymatic reaction times. This strategy not only allowed a more accurate quantification but also suppressed the influence of NHX already present in the samples. The last device developed using the µPAD structure approach was to quantify glucose in saliva samples. With only two layers in its composition, this device uses a combination of two enzymatic reactions. First, glucose oxidase converts glucose into gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide, then followed by the release of oxygen from hydrogen peroxide performed by peroxidase. The colorimetric detection is accomplished with the oxidation of o-dianisidine. In this work, a correlation between the concentration of glucose in saliva and blood was also successfully established, using #5 saliva samples of diabetic patients and the correspondent glucometer measurements provided by the patients. A rather different approach was used to perform the semi-quantitative analysis of E. coli DNA. Instead of developing a µPAD, an option was made to design a barcode-style lateral flow strip that would allow the semi-quantitative detection of E. coli. The amplification of the DNA in the sample was performed using the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) technique since it can be performed at a constant temperature and provides high sensitivity and specificity results. The developed methodology, although requiring further optimization, showed reliable performance and offers a rapid, cost-effective method for E. coli detection. Overall, this thesis demonstrates the potential of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices and lateral flow assays as innovative, cost-effective diagnostic tools for point-of-care applications. By addressing critical challenges such as sample complexity, reagent stability, and measurement accuracy, the developed devices enhance accessibility to reliable testing, particularly in resourcelimited settings. Their affordability and ease of use further emphasize their role in expanding diagnostic capabilities outside traditional laboratory environment.
- Effects of dietary polyphenols on vasculogenic erectile dysfunction: a systematic review of pre-clinical studiesPublication . Geraldo, Rafaela; Castro, Catarina; Pinto, Elisabete; Vasconcelos, Marta W.; Neves, DelmindaErectile dysfunction (ED) is a medical condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain a satisfactory erection, primarily treated with oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Treatment effectiveness is diminished in severe vasculogenic ED, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus, highlighting the need for exploring alternative/complementary interventions. Among them, dietary phenolic compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This systematic review focuses on catechin (EGCG), quercetin, resveratrol, and curcumin and their influence on the pathophysiology of ED. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO registration number CRD42023402016) searches across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until October 2024 were conducted using relevant keywords. Inclusion criteria required original articles in English, while in silico studies, review articles, editorials, and original studies lacking essential polyphenol administration information were excluded. After an initial search that located 409, 445, and 285 publications in each database respectively, rigorous screening resulted in 26 publications comprising animal, ex vivo, and in vitro studies. Their quality was assessed using GRADE and SYRCLE ROB tools, revealing an overall “medium-high” or “high quality.” These polyphenols consistently demonstrated improvements in erectile function, encompassing behavioral, functional, molecular, and hormonal aspects. However, limitations were identified, such as the predominant reliance on animal models and in vitro trials, which may not precisely reflect human physiological responses. Further clinical investigations are needed to ascertain data translational potential, standardize dosages, and establish safe and effective prescription recommendations. Prioritizing clinical trials is essential for validating the widespread applicability and efficacy of polyphenols in managing ED.
- Exploring new sustainable solutions based on chitosan and cellulose crystals towards the preventive conservation of cultural heritagePublication . Silva, Nádia Suati Caetano da; Costa, Patrícia Raquel Fernandes de Melo Moreira da; Pintado, Maria Manuela Estevez; Madureira, Ana Raquel Mendes Ferreira MonteiroOutdoor sculptures made of stone and mortar are a significant part of the worldʼs cultural heritage. Consequently, their conservation is of great importance, mainly due to their vulnerability to deterioration. Deterioration occurs as a combination of factors that cause alterations and devalue the artworks over time, including those resulting from biodeterioration mechanisms triggered by the growth and activity of microorganisms. Developing sustainable strategies to slow down the proliferation of microorganisms is necessary to reduce the negative environmental and human health impacts of currently used toxic biocides. Hence, this thesis aims to contribute to developing low-toxicity and more sustainable antimicrobial coatings for the preventive conservation of stone heritage, particularly outdoor sculptures. Firstly, an evaluation of the biocontamination and microbiological composition of five outdoor sculptures, made of different materials and located in the district of Porto (Portugal), was performed. Two methodologies were tested to collect samples from the sculptures in a non-invasive and non-destructive way: cotton swabs (classical approach) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) cryogels (alternative method). The quantification and determination of the cell viability of the microorganisms collected were performed by flow cytometry, which proved to be an analytical technique of interest for microbiological studies of cultural heritage. Both methods were effective, although higher concentrations of microorganisms were collected with swabs, while data visualisation of viable and non-viable cells was clearer with cryogels. Consequently, swab samples were taken to characterise the epilithic bacterial and fungal communities of the sculptures. High-throughput sequencing revealed great taxonomic diversity and species richness, including in well-preserved sculptures. Fungal diversity was lower than that of the bacterial communities. Proteobacteria was the core taxa common to all the sculptures. Ascomycota were also detected in all the sculptures and Basidiomycota were a significant part of the microbiomes in granite, where an abundance of pigment-producing microorganisms was also found. Additionally, colourimetry and adenosine triphosphate quantification assays quickly identified contaminated areas of the sculptures. The next stage of the work dealt with the preparation and characterisation of chitosan formulations, to be used as antimicrobial coatings to inhibit the growth of microorganisms in sculptures. The first set of formulations consisted of chitosan solutions containing citric acid and different concentrations of sodium tripolyphosphate (CHGCA-TPP), which were polymerised into films for their characterisation. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the establishment of cross-linking interactions, and the films exhibited partial wettability (40.81-31.44°), solubility (43.64-55.14%) and swelling (123.36-75.17%) in water, but allowed water vapour exchanges due to their high permeability (140.055-372.575 g m-2 d). The films reduced the growth of microorganisms that commonly colonise stone heritage: Staphylococcus aureus (0.87-1.58-log reduction), Bacillus cereus (ca. 1-3-log reduction), Rhodotorula spp. (between 0.73-1.27-log reduction and complete inhibition) and Penicillium chrysogenum (11.92-21.48% inhibition). Another set of formulations was prepared to enhance the properties of the CHGCA-TPP formulations. A screening was conducted with chitosan solutions containing microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) or cellulose nanocrystals, and the chosen formulation was supplemented with oregano essential oil (OEO) at 1% and 2%. Cross-linking interactions and incorporation of OEO were confirmed by FTIR analysis of the films, which remained poorly soluble (15.74-16.85%), with low percentages of swelling (16.10-28.22%) and relatively low wettability (> 70°). These formulations are an improvement on the CHGCA-TPP ones, including their antimicrobial action, since the films containing 2% OEO completely inhibited the growth of S. aureus, Rhodotorula spp. and P. aeruginosa, induced ca. 60% inhibition of P. chrysogenum and reduced the growth of B. cereus. Lastly, the two most promising formulations (CHGCA-TPP-a and 2-MCC-OEO-2) were tested in granite, limestone and marble samples. Both formulations polymerised on the stones’ surfaces, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy, but formed irregular coatings. The CHGCA-TPP-a coating reduced the wettability of granite and limestone, while 2-MCC-OEO-2 did the same in a more pronounced way and in all stone types. Neither coating caused visible colour changes when the formulations were applied with a brush. In vitro antimicrobial assays with stone samples inoculated with selected strains showed that CHGCA-TPP-a inhibited the growth of B. cereus, Rhodotorula spp. and P. aeruginosa in granite after 7 days to ca. 4 to 5 log10 (CFU mL -1 ). In contrast, 2-MCC-OEO-2 reduced the concentrations of viable cells in all stone types to ca. 3 to 5 log10 (CFU mL -1 ) depending on the strain. In situ antimicrobial assays, where samples were placed in an outdoor setting, showed that CHGCA-TPP-a did not have an inhibitory effect under the conditions tested, with concentrations of viable cells equal to or higher than those of uncoated slabs, regardless of the mode of application of the formulation (deposition with a micropipette or spreading by brush) or the number of treatments over the assay period. However, multiple applications of 2-MCC-OEO-2 with a micropipette over time reduced the concentrations of viable cells in granite and marble, but the same occurred only in limestone when the coating was applied with a brush. In conclusion, this work added to the knowledge of the biocontamination and diversity of the microbiomes of outdoor sculptures, in particular of the Porto district in Portugal, which can help outline future conservation strategies. The chitosan formulations tested, especially those with MCC and OEO, are a potential base for further development and optimisation of novel low-toxicity antimicrobial coatings towards more sustainable preventive conservation strategies of stone heritage.
- Global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity, 1990-2021, with forecasts to 2050: a forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021Publication . GBD 2021 Adult BMI; Ng, Marie; Gakidou, Emmanuela; Lo, Justin; Abate, Yohannes Habtegiorgis; Abbafati, Cristiana; Abbas, Nasir; Abbasian, Mohammadreza; ElHafeez, Samar Abd; Abdel-Rahman, Wael M.; Abd-Elsalam, Sherief; Abdollahi, Arash; Abdoun, Meriem; Abdulah, Deldar Morad; Abdulkader, Rizwan Suliankatchi; Abdullahi, Auwal; Abedi, Armita; Abeywickrama, Hansani Madushika; Abie, Alemwork; Aboagye, Richard Gyan; Abohashem, Shady; Abtahi, Dariush; Abualruz, Hasan; Abubakar, Bilyaminu; Farha, Rana Kamal Abu; Abukhadijah, Hana J.; Abu-Rmeileh, Niveen M. E.; Aburuz, Salahdein; Abu-Zaid, Ahmed; Adams, Lisa C.; Adane, Mesafint Molla; Addo, Isaac Yeboah; Adedokun, Kamoru Ademola; Adegoke, Nurudeen A.; Adepoju, Abiola Victor Victor; Adesola, Ridwan Olamilekan; Adeyeoluwa, Temitayo Esther; Adiga, Usha; Adnani, Qorinah Estiningtyas Sakilah; Afaghi, Siamak; Afzal, Saira; Afzal, Muhammad Sohail; Agampodi, Thilini Chanchala; Aghamiri, Shahin; Sobrinho, Cesar Agostinis; Agyemang-Duah, Williams; Ahlstrom, Austin J.; Ahmad, Danish; Ahmad, Sajjad; Fernandes, João C.; Ferreira, NunoBackground Overweight and obesity is a global epidemic. Forecasting future trajectories of the epidemic is crucial for providing an evidence base for policy change. In this study, we examine the historical trends of the global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity from 1990 to 2021 and forecast the future trajectories to 2050. Methods Leveraging established methodology from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study, we estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity among individuals aged 25 years and older by age and sex for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2050. Retrospective and current prevalence trends were derived based on both self-reported and measured anthropometric data extracted from 1350 unique sources, which include survey microdata and reports, as well as published literature. Specific adjustment was applied to correct for self-report bias. Spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression models were used to synthesise data, leveraging both spatial and temporal correlation in epidemiological trends, to optimise the comparability of results across time and geographies. To generate forecast estimates, we used forecasts of the Socio-demographic Index and temporal correlation patterns presented as annualised rate of change to inform future trajectories. We considered a reference scenario assuming the continuation of historical trends. Findings Rates of overweight and obesity increased at the global and regional levels, and in all nations, between 1990 and 2021. In 2021, an estimated 1·00 billion (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 0·989–1·01) adult males and 1·11 billion (1·10–1·12) adult females had overweight and obesity. China had the largest population of adults with overweight and obesity (402 million [397–407] individuals), followed by India (180 million [167–194]) and the USA (172 million [169–174]). The highest age-standardised prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed in countries in Oceania and north Africa and the Middle East, with many of these countries reporting prevalence of more than 80% in adults. Compared with 1990, the global prevalence of obesity had increased by 155·1% (149·8–160·3) in males and 104·9% (95% UI 100·9–108·8) in females. The most rapid rise in obesity prevalence was observed in the north Africa and the Middle East super-region, where age-standardised prevalence rates in males more than tripled and in females more than doubled. Assuming the continuation of historical trends, by 2050, we forecast that the total number of adults living with overweight and obesity will reach 3·80 billion (95% UI 3·39–4·04), over half of the likely global adult population at that time. While China, India, and the USA will continue to constitute a large proportion of the global population with overweight and obesity, the number in the sub-Saharan Africa super-region is forecasted to increase by 254·8% (234·4–269·5). In Nigeria specifically, the number of adults with overweight and obesity is forecasted to rise to 141 million (121–162) by 2050, making it the country with the fourth-largest population with overweight and obesity. Interpretation No country to date has successfully curbed the rising rates of adult overweight and obesity. Without immediate and effective intervention, overweight and obesity will continue to increase globally. Particularly in Asia and Africa, driven by growing populations, the number of individuals with overweight and obesity is forecast to rise substantially. These regions will face a considerable increase in obesity-related disease burden. Merely acknowledging obesity as a global health issue would be negligent on the part of global health and public health practitioners; more aggressive and targeted measures are required to address this crisis, as obesity is one of the foremost avertible risks to health now and in the future and poses an unparalleled threat of premature disease and death at local, national, and global levels.
- IMPULSE : IMpact of a PULSE-based partial replacement diet on metabolome and healthPublication . Ferreira, Helena Alexandra Gonçalves; Pinto, Elisabete Cristina Bastos; Vasconcelos, Marta Wilton Pereira Leite de; Gil, Ana Maria Pissarra CoelhoThis doctoral project was conceived in the context of urgent global challenges related to food security and environmental sustainability, as a response to the need for transitioning to plantrich dietary patterns. The project aimed to explore the feasibility and impact on human organisms of partially substituting animal protein-rich foods with plant-based protein-rich foods, specifically pulses, in omnivorous diets. Identified gaps in scientific evidence regarding the health effects of pulses, especially as protein alternatives, prompted a comprehensive exploration combining classical nutrition research tools with molecular biology and metabolomics techniques. A quasi-experimental dietary intervention was designed involving a single group of volunteers. Non-vegetarian individuals aged 18 to 45 were provided with a pulse-based vegetarian meal on weekdays for eight consecutive weeks in Porto, Portugal. Sociodemographic data, health-related information, and lifestyle details were recorded for each volunteer. A post-meal satisfaction questionnaire assessed participants' satisfaction with each meal using a nine-point hedonic scale. Untargeted 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics was applied to plasma, urine, and fecal samples (totaling 248 samples), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) molecular biology was used on fecal samples (34 samples) to obtain holistic and integrated information on the impact of pulse diets on the metabolome and intestinal microbiota. Additionally, three-day food diaries, anthropometric parameters, and blood biochemical analyses were obtained for each individual, contributing to a comprehensive data collection. Data analysis, including comparison of different parameters at the intervention's start and end, utilized various statistical tests for proportion and mean comparisons, and multivariate analysis. Significant differences were considered when the p-value was below 5%. The meal satisfaction analysis highlighted the significant role of cooking methods in determining food preferences, with greater satisfaction for stewed dishes and lower ratings for boiled dishes. Peas received lower appreciation, likely reflecting them being less preferred as protein alternatives. Moreover, most participants were able to meet national and international guidelines for pulse consumption without exacerbating nutritional inadequacies for the tested macro- and micronutrients, except for vitamin B12. The intervention demonstrated potential benefits in reducing blood lipids, with decreases in total and LDL cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health benefits associated with pulse-rich diets. Using NMR spectroscopy, a dynamic metabolic response to pulse consumption was identified in plasma and urine samples, emphasizing the modulation of protein and energy metabolism, as well as the identification of potential intake markers. Correlations between bacterial quantification and fecal metabolome suggest possible metabolic patterns of some of the 8 studied bacterial groups. The results highlight the potential benefits and challenges of adopting pulse-based diets but suggest that pulses would be readily accepted in dietary habits if prepared and presented pleasantly. While positive impacts on cardiovascular health and metabolic activity are evident, the results emphasize the need to avoid nutritional deficiencies, especially in vitamin B12, when substituting animal-origin foods with pulses. Metabolomic analysis highlighted the dynamic nature of the response to pulse consumption, and its combination with molecular biology revealed the potential impact of these foods on the intestinal microbiota. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this study elucidated the potential of pulse-based diets in promoting individual well-being and sustainable food choices. These results need confirmation in experimental studies involving a larger number of participants and a control group, but they identify potential biomarkers and advance the understanding of the broader effects of pulses on human health. Future work should further optimize pulse-based dietary recommendations and explore innovative strategies to enhance the adoption of sustainable dietary patterns on a larger scale.
- Omega-3 and conjugated fatty acids impact on human microbiota modulation using an in vitro fecal fermentation modelPublication . Salsinha, Ana Sofia; Araújo-Rodrigues, Helena; Dias, Cindy; Cima, André; Rodríguez-Alcalá, Luís Miguel; Relvas, João B.; Pintado, ManuelaBackground& aims: Gut microbiota has been gaining increasing attention and itsimportant role in the maintenance of a general good health condition is alreadyestablished. The potential of gut microbiota modulation through diet is animportant research focus to be considered. Lipids, as omega-3 fatty acids, arewell known for their beneficial role on organs and corresponding diseases.However, their impact on gut microbiota is still poorly defined, and studies onthe role of other polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as conjugated linoleic andlinolenic acids, are even scarcer. Methods: By using an in vitro humanfermentation model, we assessed the effect of omega-3, CLA iso mers, andpunicic acid on microbiota modulation. Results: Fish oil, Omega-3, and CLAsamples positively impact Akkermansia spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. growth.Moreover, all the samples supported Roseburia spp. growth after 24 h offermentation and, importantly, they were able to maintain the Firmicutes:Bacteroidetes ratio near 1. All the bioactive fatty acid samples, exceptPomegranate oil, were able to significantly increase butyrate levels comparedto those found in the positive control (FOS) sample. Moreover, Fish oil andOmega-3 samples were able to increase the concentration of GABA, alanine,tyrosine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, and leucine between 12 and 24 h offermentation. Conclusions: The impact of the assessed polyunsaturated fattyacids in gut microbiota has been observed in its impact on key bacteria(Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Roseburia) as well as their metabolic byproducts,including butyrate and amino acids, which could potentially play a role inmodulating the gut-brain axis.
- Organic acids in food preservation: exploring synergies, molecular insights, and sustainable applicationsPublication . Sorathiya, Kavita Bhavin; Melo, Adma; Hogg, Maria Conceição; Pintado, ManuelaFood safety is a critical global health concern, as the consumption of unsafe food can lead to various acute and chronic diseases. While various preservation methods are employed to prevent food spoilage, it remains a significant issue for the food industry, resulting not only in food waste but also significant economic losses for manufacturers and consumers alike. Furthermore, there is growing consumer concern regarding food quality and safety, leading to the rejection of chemical additives due to their associated health risks. Organic acids, naturally occurring compounds of plants and animals, and produced by various beneficial microorganisms, play an important role in enhancing food flavor, preserving nutritional quality, and extending the shelf life of food products. Recognized for their antimicrobial potential, organic acids are commonly utilized as food preservatives, thus contributing to food safety. This review focuses on organic acids as natural preservatives within the food industry. It delves into their chemical structures, mode of action in cells, the types commonly used in preservation along with their general properties, and their antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. These insights are drawn from the published literature, providing comprehensive understanding of the role organic acids play in ensuring food safety and maintaining food quality.