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As the population ages, the pursuit of extended lifespan and improved healthspan has gained significance. This study assessed the anti-aging properties of sea cucumber peptides derived from Acaudina leucoprocta (SCP) through microbiome and metabolome analyses in Drosophila melanogaster. Supplementation with 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.8% of SCP significantly boosted the survival rate and extended the mean and median lifespans in both male and female flies. Among them, 0.6% SCP treatment extended the mean and median lifespans of male flies by 21.01% and 25.48 %, which showed the most prominent lifespan-prolonging effect. Moreover, SCP enhanced the healthspan of male flies by improving their climbing ability, intestinal barrier function, and memory performance. Additionally, SCP boosted the survival rate of flies subjected to oxidative, starvation, and heat stress, with no significant effect observed under cold stress conditions. The lifespan-extension effect of SCP remained unaffected by dietary restriction, but was partially inhibited when provided with antibiotic-supplemented food. SCP modulated microbiota with increased the abundance of Lactobacillus , Rhodococcus , and Propioniciclava and decreased Acetobacter , Achromobacter , Pedobacter , and norank_f_ Saprospiraceae, which closely related with lifespan-extension effect. Furthermore, SCP induced a metabolic profile in 30-day-old flies more akin to that of 3-day-old flies, impacted 13 significantly regulated metabolites associated with amino acid, nucleotide, and carbohydrate metabolisms. These findings highlight SCP intervention as a promising anti-aging strategy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatoprotective peptides are potential therapeutic substances used for curing and protecting the liver from diseases. In addition to the nutrition value, evidence indicates that these peptides have a potential role in the body's physiological process. Despite wider practicability of these peptides, their molecular structures still need to be further elucidated, to analyze and better understand its mechanism of action. Their structural variations are mainly attributed to their ultimate processing of different hydrolysates. This study summarizes potential sources, production, structure, and sequence of hepatoprotective peptides, specifically emphasizing on their protective mechanism(s) against alcoholic- and non-alcoholic liver disease. This study also describes an interaction between intestinal microbiota and hepatoprotective peptides. Preliminary research indicated that treatment with bioactive peptide promotes the balance of gut microbiota (GM), mitigates liver inflammation in mice, reverses neutrophil phagocytosis in individuals with alcoholic cirrhosis, and improves liver enzyme levels in excessive drinkers. Besides, it describes hepatoprotective peptides mechanism of action on intestinal microbiota. This work intends to add knowledge in the field of peptides and their impact on hepatoprotection. [Display omitted] • Pointed out the main production of hepatoprotective peptides. • Focused on the sequences of hepatoprotective peptides. • Summarized the differences of hepatoprotective mechanism between NAFLD and ALD. • Reviewed the interaction of hepatoprotective peptides with intestinal flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem. This study aimed to identify a combination of prebiotics and wheat peptides (WP) to promote intestinal peristalsis and explore the underlying mechanism. First, we screened four prebiotics (galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), fructose oligosaccharides (FOS), inulin (IN), and resistant dextrin (RD)) using a zebrafish model and found that GOS was the most synergistic with WP. We then tested the GOS-WP combination in a mouse model of loperamide (Lop)-induced constipation and found that it significantly improved constipation symptoms. Specifically, GOS-WP shortened the first black stool time, increased the number of defecation particles, accelerated small intestinal propulsion rate, and increased fecal water content. GOS-WP also normalized the colonic water transport system by inhibiting colonic AQP4/8 expression. Additionally, GOS-WP reversed Lop-induced morphological damage in the ileum and colon, increased colonic barrier, and reduced inflammation in mice. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that GOS-WP reversed the gut microbiota structure changes induced by Lop. GOS-WP significantly increased butyric acid and decreased BCFA levels, indicating improved gut health. Our findings suggest that the GOS-WP combination has potential as a novel intervention for constipation relief. This study highlights the potential of combining prebiotics and WP as a therapeutic strategy for constipation. • Among GOS, FOS, IN and RD, GOS and WP had the strongest synergistic effect in promoting intestinal peristalsis. • The GOS to WP ratio of 1:2 was the most effective in promoting intestinal peristalsis in zebrafish model. • The GOS-WP complex (1:2) could relive constipation under mice model. • The GOS-WP complex (1:2) improved the disturbances of intestinal function in constipated mice. • The GOS-WP complex (1:2) recovered the gut microbiota composition in constipated mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Previous findings on the associations of legume and soy intake with the risk of type 2 diabetes are conflicting. Objective We aimed to summarize the longitudinal associations between legume and soy intake and risk of type 2 diabetes. Methods We searched for relevant prospective cohort studies in PubMed, EMBASE, and Ovid up to August 2019. Study-specific, multivariable-adjusted RRs and 95% CIs were pooled by random-effects models. Results We identified 15 unique cohorts including 565,810 individuals and 32,093 incident cases. The summary RRs (95% CIs) of incident type 2 diabetes were 0.95 (0.79, 1.14; NS) for total legumes, 0.83 (0.68, 1.01; NS) for total soy, 0.89 (0.71, 1.11; NS) for soy milk, 0.92 (0.84, 0.99) for tofu, 0.84 (0.75, 0.95) for soy protein, and 0.88 (0.81, 0.96) for soy isoflavones, respectively. High heterogeneity was found for total legumes (I 2 = 84.8%), total soy (I 2 = 90.8%), and soy milk (I2  = 91.7%). Potential sources of heterogeneity were not evident for total legumes or soy milk, whereas for total soy, geographic location (Asia, United States; P  = 0.04) and study quality (high, moderate, or low; P = 0.02) significantly predicted heterogeneity. In dose–response analysis, significant linear inverse associations were observed for tofu, soy protein, and soy isoflavones (all P < 0.05). Overall quality of evidence was rated as moderate for total legumes and low for total soy and soy subtypes. Conclusions Dietary intakes of tofu, soy protein, and soy isoflavones, but not total legumes or total soy, are inversely associated with incident type 2 diabetes. Our findings support recommendations to increase intakes of certain soy products for the prevention of type 2 diabetes. However, the overall quality of evidence was low and more high-quality evidence from prospective studies is needed. This trial was registered as PROSPERO CRD42019126403 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Advanced omics analysis techniques were applied to verify 6G-induced effects. • 6G regulates and reverses the shifts in gut microbiota composition induced by HFD intervention. • 6G modulates serum metabolites and improves lipid metabolism under HFD. • Gut microbiota and serum metabolites were strongly interlinked and involved in the anti-obesity effects of 6G. • FMT from HG mice maintains a more normal weight gain pattern. • Muribaculaceae, Alloprevotella, and Akkermansia were the biomarker microbiomes of 6G supplementation. 6-Gingerol (6G), a bioactive compound derived from ginger, has shown promise in combating obesity. However, the specific anti-obesity action of 6G by targeting gut microbiota and serum metabolites remains unclear. Here, we showed that 6G positively and significantly modified the composition of gut microbiota by increasing the abundance of weight loss-associated genera (e.g., Muribaculaceae, Alloprevotella, and Akkermansiaand) and decreasing the abundance of obesity-contributed bacterium (e.g., Lachnospiraceae and Lactobacillus reuteri). Moreover, 6G remarkably altered serum metabolites related to lipid metabolism (e.g.,3a,7a-Dihydroxy-5b-cholestan-26-al, LysoPC(18:1(11Z)), LysoPC (20:0), Sphingosine-1-phosphate, and Adrenic acid) and their signaling pathways including ABC transporters, arginine biosynthesis, and arginine and proline metabolism. Spearman's correlation showed a strong connection between the altered microbiota and changes in serum lipid metabolites. Fecal microbiota transplantation revealed that Muribaculaceae, Alloprevotella, and Akkermansia , were the key microbiomes of the 6G intervention. This study provides valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms by which 6G promotes weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butyric acid and lauric acid are short chain and medium chain fatty acids, respectively. Their anti-inflammatory and lipid metabolism regulating functions are reported, while their structural lipid functional activity still needs to be verified. In this study, obese mice induced by high-fat diet (HFD) were used to investigate the effects of butyric-lauric acid structural lipid (S BL) on inflammation and small intestinal microbes. In vivo , although S BL did not significantly reduce body weight (P > 0.05), it might have a positive effect on mouse liver health. Compared to the corresponding physical mixture (M BL), S BL treatment could better downregulate hepatic TNF-α , IL-1β and IL-6 expression and stimulate IL-10 expression. Similarly, compared with the HF group, the liver IL-1β and TNF-α levels in the LS BL treatment group decreased by 15.2% and 22.9%, respectively (P < 0.05). In addition, HS BL treatment increased the content of IL-10 in the liver of obese mice (increased by 26.8%, P < 0.05). Moreover, S BL more significantly upregulated Bifidobacterium abundance and inhibited the high-fat diet-induced increase in Faecalibaculum abundance. In all, S BL ameliorated HFD-induced liver inflammation and these improvements are closely associated with its positive effects on small intestinal microbiota. This study aimed to provide support and new perspectives for the development and functional exploration of short-and medium-chain fatty acid structural lipids. [Display omitted] • Butyric-lauric acid structural lipid (S BL) delayed the release of butyric acid. • S BL alleviated liver inflammation induced by high-fat diet. • S BL regulated liver lipid metabolism. • S BL improved small intestinal microbial disorders under high fat diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Intake of GML induced adverse effects on body weight, serum lipids and gut microbiota. • L. plantarum ZJUFT17 could attenuate the adverse effects induced by GML in mice. • Administration of L. plantarum ZJUFT17 could modulate the gut microbiota in mice. • L. plantarum ZJUFT17 may be a candidate for probiotics. Abstract Glycerol monolaurate (GML) is a naturally occurring surfactant and is widely used as a food emulsifier. New evidence, however, has shown that intake of GML could result in metabolic syndrome as well as gut microbiota dysbiosis in mice. In this study, male C57BL/6J mice fed normal chow diet with or without GML supplementation were administered with Lactobacillus plantarum strains isolated from Chinese sourdough for 6 weeks to investigate the influence of GML and the L. plantarum strains on body weight, serum lipid profiles, inflammatory responses and gut microbiota. The results showed that L. plantarum could attenuate the adverse effects induced by GML, especially the strain L. plantarum ZJUFT17, which showed good performance in suppressing body weight gain, lowering total cholesterol, reducing the serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level and enhancing the α-diversity of gut microbiota in mice supplemented with GML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background In the past decades, many natural bioactive compounds with antioxidant, immunoregulatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities have been successfully identified in plant and animal materials. However, due to their poor solubility, unfavorable flavor, low bioavailability and instability during food processing and storage, the development of bioactive compounds used in the food industry presents many technological challenges. Scope and approach Emulsion electrospinning is a novel and simple technique to fabricate core-shell nanofibers, and either water-in-oil (W/O) or oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions can be electrospun to directly encapsulate hydrophilic or hydrophobic compounds into core-shell fibers, respectively. This review introduces fundamentals and advantages of emulsion electrospinning as well as its food applications. The effects of different types of emulsifiers on the formation of emulsion systems and emulsion-based electrospun fibers are highlighted. Further, the existing limitations and scope for future research are discussed. Key findings and conclusions Recent studies have found that the emulsion-based electrospun nanofibers can enhance the encapsulation efficiency, stability, and bioavailability of bioactive compounds, as well as achieve targeted delivery and controlled release, thus providing new strategies to improve their barrier performance compared to conventional electrospinning and therefore facilitating the development of emulsion-based electrospun mats in the food industry. Highlights • Fundamentals and advantages of emulsion electrospinning are overviewed. • Diverse food-grade materials are appropriate for emulsion electrospinning. • Role of different types of emulsifiers in emulsion electrospinning is clarified. • Food applications of emulsion-based electrospun fibers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constipation is a widespread gastrointestinal issue. This work aimed to investigate anti-constipation capacities of 9 novel strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium using in vitro experiments for initial exploration and then further confirmed through in vivo models including both zebrafish and mice. The in vitro experimental results revealed that L. plantarum T34 and L. paracasei YJ10 could survive under the simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions as standard strain L. rhamnosus (LGG) did. L. paracasei YJ10 and L. casei Lc showed the highest 22 h's aggregation rate. L. rhamnosus W1 showed the highest coaggregation rate with E. coli and with S. aureus. T34 had the largest inhibition zones against S. typhimurium and L. Monocytogenes. The highest adhesion rates with HT-29 cells were L. casei Lc, LGG and W1. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) were performed to evaluate the in vitro probiotic potential of the 9 strains comprehensively. The order of scores on in vitro probiotic property from high to low was as follows: T34, W1, YJ10, Lc, LGG, SLT, SS, Lb, YN4 and LQSQ. The subsequent in vivo experiment of zebrafish further confirmed T34, W1 and YJ10 have better anti-constipation ability compared to other strains. Furthermore, T34 relieve loperamide-induced constipation by promoting gut transit in the mice model. In conclusion, T34 was demonstrated to prevent constipation and may be suggested for use in food and pharmaceutical goods. [Display omitted] • Evaluating the anti-constipation potential of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains by PCA and FSE. • A comprehensive in vitro method for assessing anti-constipation ability was developed. • Zebrafish model evaluation assays were included. • A cost-effective and effective screening method was developed for screening of anti-constipation probiotics. • Lactiplantibacillus plantarum T34 strain with anti-constipation potential was screened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constipation has become more common in recent decades, affecting people's quality of life. Natural bioactive substances could be effective in alleviating constipation. The goal of this study was to assess and compare the efficacy of low and high hydrolysis degree wheat peptides (WP-L and WP-H) at a dose of 1 mg/g.bw on relieving loperamide-induced constipation in mice and the underlying mechanisms. Here, we proved that both WP-L and WP-H treatment showed constipation relieving effect by improving defecation function and small intestinal propulsion rate while the different hydrolysis degree did not affect the efficacy of WP. Moreover, WP-L and WP-H could balance the secretion of excitatory and inhibitory factors, and enhance the activity of antioxidant enzyme (SOD and GSH-Px). Importantly, both of them could accelerate intestinal motility, improve water-salt metabolism and intestinal barrier, and ameliorate oxidative stress. In summary, our findings indicated that 1 mg/g.bw WP-L and WP-H effectively relieved loperamide-induced constipation by affecting multiple targets in mice. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium- and long-chain triglycerides (MLCT) have been widely concerned. In this study, lauric acid (La) was incorporated into flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) oil (FO, aLna-riched) by lipase-catalyzed acidolysis. The synthesis efficiency of four immobilized lipases (Lipozyme RM IM, TL IM, AOAB8 and Novozym 435) was compared, while Lipozyme AOAB8 reaction for 2 h was the best scheme. Further, the optimal conditions for synthesizing structural lipids (aLSLs, rich in aLna and La) were obtained by response surface methodology: the reaction temperature was 44.6 °C, substrate molar ratio was 12 (La/FO), and enzyme loading was 9.11%. After purification by molecular distillation, the triglycerides (TAGs) of aLSLs contained 75.35% of TAGs with α-linolenic acid (aLna), 40.82% of MLCTs with La, and 26.75% (65.53% of the total MLCTs) of TAGs with both aLna and La (ɑ-MLCT). Meanwhile, the content of La and aLna in aLSLs were 22.38% and 39.78%, respectively. The chemical structure and microstructure of aLSLs were similar to FO. In addition, the thermo-oxidative decomposition behavior of aLSLs was significantly improved compared with physical mixture oil. This improvement might be related to the insertion of La and the structure of TAG. In all, this study firstly developed a novel thermo-oxidatively stable MLCT with high levels of aLna and La. • The structural lipid rich in α-linolenic and lauric acid (aLSLs) was synthesized. • The best synthetic parameters of aLSLs were fixed by response surface methodology. • The crystal structure of aLSLs was similar to flaxseed oil. • The thermo-oxidative decomposition behavior of aLSLs was significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycerol monolaurate (GML) has the potential of antibacterial and growth-promoting in food. Recent research reported that GML could significantly increase the body index of fish, but whether GML can exert growth-promoting ability via regulating bone metabolism remains unknown. This study explored the effects of GML on the bone growth of fish models and its mechanisms by analyzing the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1). The micro-CT scanning results showed that the dietary supplementation of 750 mg/kg GML significantly increased the body length and bone mineral density, and improved the bone microarchitecture parameters of the caudal vertebrae of zebrafish (Danio rerio). The centrum part of the vertebra was easier to respond to the regulatory effect of GML than the neural arch and the haemal arch. Mechanistically, the content of serum IGF-1, the expression of osteogenic differentiation-related genes, and genes involved in IGF-1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway were significantly increased. The liver proteomic analysis showed the consistent results that GML supplementation could up-regulate the expression of hepatic IGF-1, and that energy metabolism and growth and development-related metabolic pathways were implicated in the GML bone growth boosting effects. These findings highlight that GML could be used as a functional food additive to improve bone growth and health. [Display omitted] • Glycerol monolaurate (GML) increased body length and bone mineral density of Carassius auratus and Danio rerio. • The phenotype of precaudal and caudal vertebrae in Danio rerio was evaluated using micro-CT. • The expression of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) and bone metabolism-related genes was increased. • Liver proteomic assays displayed the activation of energy metabolism and growth-related metabolic pathways by GML. • 750 mg/kg GML supplementation effectively improved the bone growth and health of the fish model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Novelty, a synergistic effect of OPGE on anti-fatigue and sexual ability was explored. • OPGE promoted physical recovery and accelerated fatigue elimination. • OPGE increased sexual behavior of male mice after exhausted swimming. • OPGE enhanced the expression of testosterone synthesis related protease. Traditionally, ginseng and oyster are regarded as biological tonics for enhancing vital energy. In this study, a post-exercise fatigue model and copulatory test were performed to evaluate the effects of combined oyster peptide and ginseng extracts (OPGE) on anti-fatigue and sexual function. The forced swimming time of mice was prolonged by taking OPGE. Moreover, the level of serum lactic acid, blood urea nitrogen, and lactate dehydrogenase activity were decreased, while the liver glycogen content and antioxidant ability in skeletal muscles were increased. Furthermore, OPGE statistically improved the sexual behavioral indexes of exercise-fatigue mice. The levels of testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone in serum, and the expression of testosterone synthesis-related-protease in testis were increased by OPGE administration, while phosphodiesterase-5 content was decreased. Overall, our study suggested that OPGE could be a potential androgen-like dietary supplement to accelerate the elimination of fatigue and improve testosterone-deficiency symptom after intensive training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two sea cucumber-derived peptides with different hydrolysis degree were identified. • Both SCP-1 and SCP-2 improve exercise performance and delayed physical fatigue. • The antifatigue activity of SCP-2 was stronger than that of SCP-1. • SCP enhance antifatigue effect by regulating NRF2/ARE and AMPK/PGC-1α pathways. In this study, the antifatigue potential of two sea cucumber peptides (SCP), with low hydrolysis degree (SCP-1) and high hydrolysis degree (SCP-2) derived from Acaudina leucoprocta was investigated. SCP-2 had a lower molecular weight, shorter peptide length, and higher proportion of identified sequences related to branched chain amino acids than SCP-1. Both SCP-1 and SCP-2 significantly improved exercise performance and exerted antifatigue effects in comparison to the negative control group (NC). The mice group received SCP-2 treatment showed better antifatigue effects than that of SCP-1 by prolonging exhaustive swimming time, increasing forelimb grip strength, reducing metabolite accumulation, relieving muscle injury, enhancing muscle glycogen and energy metabolism. Besides, these two treatments significantly modulated the protein relative levels of oxidative stress and mitochondrial function by regulating the NRF2 and AMPK signaling pathways. Conclusively, the study's findings suggested that SCP could possibly be used as a green functional ingredient to overcome fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, various concentrations of allopurinol were encapsulated into the glucose cross-linked gelatin/zein (1:1, w/w) nanofibers. The encapsulation of allopurinol did not affect the production of smooth and uniform nanofibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed the hydrogen bonding interactions between allopurinol and proteins. The homogenous dispersion of allopurinol at concentrations of 2.5% (A2.5), 5% (A5), and 10% (A10) was observed, while phase separation happened at a concentration of 20% (A20) allopurinol by recrystallization. The nanofiber wettability was significantly increased for the A2.5 and A5 fibers, but the wettability of the A10 and A20 fibers was even lower compared to the unencapsulated nanofibers. The release experiments of allopurinol from nanofibers into phosphate buffer, simulated gastric fluid, and simulated intestinal fluid suggested the anomalous pattern for the burst release, followed by the Fickian diffusion for the sustained release. In addition, the allopurinol encapsulated nanofibers showed effective suppression against xanthine oxidase. Our work suggest that the glucose cross-linked gelatin/zein nanofibers may be a promising delivery system for hydrophobic bioactive molecules. Image 1 • Allopurinol were uniformly dispersed within the glucose cross-linked gelatin/zein nanofibers. • The loading capacity of allopurinol in the fibers varied from 6.32 to 33.38%. • Anomalous pattern for the burst release, followed by the Fickian diffusion for the sustained release were observed. • The allopurinol encapsulated nanofibers showed effective suppression against xanthine oxidase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, the gelatin/zein nanofibers were electrospun and then cross-linked by glucose via Maillard reaction. The morphology observations showed that the average diameter of the cross-linked gelatin/zein nanofibers decreased with the increasing weight ratio of zein. FTIR results indicated that gelatin and zein molecules were homogenously dispersed within the fibers, and the Maillard reaction occurred between the proteins and glucose. The addition of zein affected the mobility of the gelatin chains, leading to the decreased denaturation temperature. The cross-linked fibers with a 1:1 gelatin/zein ratio showed the most hydrophobic surface (water contact angle of 134°), and comparable mechanical properties to the cross-linked gelatin nanofibers, while a higher ratio of zein (more than 50%) resulted in the decreased elastic modulus. The L929 cell cytotoxicity test suggested that the cross-linked gelatin/zein nanofibers exhibited good biocompatibility and non-cytotoxicity. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The gelatin/zein nanofibers were cross-linked with glucose by Maillard reaction. • The nanofiber morphology was maintained after cross-linking. • The cross-linked nanofibers showed good water resistance, and tunable wettability and mechanical properties. • The cross-linked nanofibers are biocompatible and non-cytotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperuricemia refers to a metabolic disorder associated with high serum uric acid levels and is regarded as a major risk factor not only for the development of gout but also for various chronic diseases. However, current clinical hypouricemic medications still have some undesired side effects and are contraindicated by multiple comorbidities. Thus, the development of natural therapeutic products as novel, safe, and effective alternatives to pharmacological agents is urgently needed. This review mainly focuses on the research progress of phytochemicals in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. Additionally, the chemical structure, specific mechanism, and effective dose of natural phytochemicals are comprehensively highlighted. Many in vivo and/or in vitro studies have indicated that phytochemicals derived from natural sources, including alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, possess the beneficial properties of downregulating uric acid levels and dissolving monosodium urate crystals. Therefore, they have great potential to be novel and safe agents that can prevent and combat hyperuricemia and gout. [Display omitted] • Review of beneficial properties and mechanisms of natural plants and phytochemicals to combat hyperuricemia and gout. • Introduction of hypouricemic phytochemicals in terms of the chemical structure, specific mechanism, and effective dose. • Discussion of limitations and future prospects of phytochemicals as potential alternatives to hypouricemic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycerol monolaurate (GML) is a fatty acid monoglyceride, which richly exists in coconut oil, palm oil, and human milk. Except for the recognized emulsifying properties, GML's good antibacterial ability and low energy density also make it an ideal functional additive and food quality improver. This review discusses GML synthesis, health benefits, positive effects on food storage and quality, and critically discusses its fate and safety in vivo. The routine emulsification of GML in foods is beyond the scope of this review. GML is synthesized through direct esterification, methyl laurate glycerolysis or laurate glycerolysis. Although the in vivo fate of GML is assumed to be similar to that of glyceryl trilaurate, there is no direct experimental evidence for this inference. Previous studies proved that GML functions beyond an emulsifier. In food quality, GML inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms and extends shelf life. It also improves the nutritional value and sensory properties of animal-derived food by regulating amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. In health efficacies, GML reduces lipid accumulation, rebuilds the intestinal barrier, modulates immune activity, and may have positive effects on the nervous system. These are associated with the direct intervention of GML on gut microbiota, immune cell activity and energy metabolism. However, developing more efficient GML synthesis schemes, enhancing the application of GML on food quality, and exploring the in vivo fate, health efficacy mechanism or safety of GML in different experimental models remain interesting topics in the future. • The main preparation methods of glycerol monolaurate (GML) were reviewed. • The in vivo fate of GML was speculated and discussed. • GML can be used as food quality improver and preservative. • GML are benefit on obesity, gut, immune and cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium sorbate (PS) is a widely used food preservative in the field of food industry. However, the effects of continuous intake and washout period of PS on host health are still unclear. In this study, to investigate long-term effect and after-effect of different concentrations and time points of PS, healthy mice were orally exposed to 150 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg of PS for 10 weeks, and washout treatment for another 5 weeks, respectively. The results indicated that PS intake for 10 weeks had no obvious effects on organs and adipose tissue, nor did it noteworthily interfere with glucolipid metabolism in the serum. However, it caused inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver, increased serum interleukin (IL)-1β level, changed abundances of gut microbiota but failed to promote the production of short chain fatty acids in the gut. After washout period for 5 weeks, liver inflammation and IL-1β level were decreased, and gut environment developed towards a healthier condition. Specifically, PS washout significantly increased abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and the production of isobutyric acid. This study confirmed washout period eliminated negative effects from continuous intake of PS, which provided positive evidence for its safety. [Display omitted] • Continuous intake of PS had no significant effect on organic index. • Continuous intake of PS increased IL-1β level in the serum. • PS washout decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver. • PS washout increased the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group. • PS washout promoted the production of isobutyric acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the uniform core-shell nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning of bilayer emulsions, which were formed by the addition of gum arabic with opposite charges into the gelatin-stabilized emulsions. The increased weight ratios of gum arabic enhanced the emulsion stability by progressively increasing the viscosity of bilayer emulsions, which contributed to the formation of bead-free and smooth electrospun fibers with the increasing diameters. Transmission electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed that corn oil was evenly distributed in the bilayer emulsion-based fibers. These fibers with various amounts of gum arabic showed a high thermal decomposition stability upon heating to 250 °C, as hydrogen bonds played an important role in the binding of gum arabic to gelatin. The fiber mats showed high oil encapsulation efficiency and good storage stability during 5 days. These results may provide a new strategy to develop bilayer emulsion-based electrospun fibers for bioactive encapsulation in food applications. Image 1 • The uniform nanofibers were fabricated by bilayer emulsion electrospinning. • The encapsulated oil was evenly distributed in the bilayer emulsion-based fibers. • Hydrogen bonds played an important role in the binding of gum arabic to gelatin. • These fibers showed high thermal decomposition stability and storage stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the gelatin/zein nanofibers by hybrid electrospinning were fabricated. The morphology observations by field emission scanning electron microscopy showed that the diameter of gelatin/zein nanofibers was significantly increased with the increasing gelatin ratio. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry indicated that gelatin and zein strongly interacted via hydrogen bonding. The homogeneous mixing resulted in the crystalline structure for the gelatin/zein nanofiber at a 1:1 wt ratio, which showed a hydrophobic surface (water contact angle of 118°). The mechanical tests showed that the gelatin/zein nanofibers with weight ratios of 1:3 and 1:2 gave rise to much higher elongation at break of 87.9% and 69.0%, indicating good deformability and flexibility. In contrast to the pure gelatin or zein nanofibers, the gelatin/zein fibers preserved the 3D porous structures after immersed in water or ethanol for 24 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the gelatin, zein, and gelatin/zein films were fabricated by electrospinning and solvent casting, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements were performed to characterize the morphology, molecular interactions, thermal behavior, and surface hydrophilicity of the electrospun and casted films. Results showed that the zein particles prevented the gelatin chains from aggregating intra-molecularly in the casted films due to heterogeneous mixing, while strong hydrogen bonding was formed in the nanofibrous film as a result of homogeneous mixing. Interestingly, the gelatin/zein nanofibrous film had a hydrophobic surface (water contact angle of 118.0°), while the casted gelatin/zein film had a hydrophilic surface (water contact angle of 53.5°). The confocal laser scanning microscopy observations suggested that the zein particles were well dispersed in the gelatin network to maintain the nanofibrous structures after immersion in water or ethanol, leading to the improved solvent resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work studied the effects of non-ionic Tween 80, anionic sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) and cationic cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactants on the morphology of electrospun gelatin nanofibres, and on the release behaviour, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity of encapsulated curcumin. Scanning electron micrographs showed that addition of SDS significantly increased the nanofibre diameter. Fourier transform infrared and differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicated that gelatin and SDS intimately interacted via electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. However, these interactions inhibited the release of curcumin from the nanofibres with SDS, while CTAB and Tween 80 both facilitated the release. SDS and Tween 80 showed protective effects on curcumin from the attack of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radicals, and the increased release of curcumin from nanofibres with CTAB or Tween 80 resulted in a higher reducing power. The antimicrobial activity results suggested that the curcumin encapsulated gelatin nanofibres with CTAB exhibited effective inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • GMC significantly ameliorated visceral fat accumulation in HFD-fed mice. • GMC improved systemic inflammation in HFD-fed mice. • GMC modulated gut microbiota dysbiosis with increased beneficial bacteria and promoted SCFAs production. • GMC-induced metabolic improvements were closely related to gut microbiota regulation. • Not all of the food preservatives and emulsifiers would drive gut microbiota dysbiosis. Recent findings imply that great consideration should be given to the potential health risks of food additives on gut microbiota. Glycerol monocaprylate (GMC) is a widely consumed food preservative and emulsifier. Our results indicated that GMC significantly ameliorated visceral fat accumulation and systemic inflammation in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Furthermore, GMC induced improvements on the composition and function of gut microbiota, resulting in increased beneficial gut bacteria (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) and promoted production of short chain fatty acids. Notably, GMC-induced metabolic amelioration is closely related to the regulation in gut microbiota. Overall, our findings supported that unlike the emulsifiers previously reported to damage intestinal health, GMC performed the potential on attenuating HFD-induced metabolic disorders and gut microbiota dysbiosis, which also refined on the safety evaluation of GMC on gut microbiota. Our findings suggest that when evaluating the safety of food additives with regards to gut microbiota, it is important to take into account the specific characteristics of the additive in question, rather than simply relying on its classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Water, oil and air are common heat transfer media in cooking. • The combination of vacuum, ultrasonic and heating promotes healthy cooking. • Lipid peroxidation in cooking is harmful to its quality, digestibility and safety. • Short-term, uniform and mild new cooking technology reduces the loss of lipids. Foods undergo various physical and chemical reactions during cooking. Boiling, steaming, baking, smoking and frying are common traditional cooking techniques. At present, new cooking technologies including ultrasonic-assisted cooking, vacuum low-temperature cooking, vacuum frying, microwave heating, infrared heating, ohmic heating and air frying are widely studied and used. In cooking, lipid oxidation is the main reason for the change in lipid quality. Oxidative decomposition, triglyceride monomer oxidation, hydrolysis, isomerization, cyclization reaction and polymerization occurred in lipid oxidation affect lipids' quality, flavor, digestibility and safety. Meanwhile, lipid oxidation in cooking might cause the decline of lipid digestibility and increase of health risks. Compared with the traditional cooking technology, the new cooking technology that is milder, more uniform and faster can reduce the loss of lipid nutrition and produce a better flavor. In the future, the combination of various cooking technologies is an effective strategy for families to obtain healthier food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The anti-OA effect of Salmonidae bone collagen peptide (CP) was assessed. • CP was confirmed to inhibit the matrix degradation both in vitro and in vivo. • CP suppressed the role of pro-inflammatory via inhibiting NF-κB signal. • CP impeded the serious destruction of subchondral bone. • CP effectively prevent osteoarthritis in pMMx models as a dietary supplement. Nowadays, the biological activity of collagen peptides has been revealed, but the effect of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) bone-derived collagen peptide (CPs) on osteoarthritis remains unclear. In this study, CPs was identified as a small molecular weight peptide rich in Gly-X-Y structure. Meanwhile, interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced hypertrophic chondrocytes and partial medial meniscectomy (pMMx) surgery model in rats were performed. In IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes, CPs significantly increased the type-II collagen content, reduced the type-X collagen abundance and chondrocytes apoptosis. Meanwhile, CPs reversed the increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase, metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs and RUNX family transcription factor 2 in chondrocytes induced by IL-1β. In vivo , CPs increased pain tolerance of rats and without organ toxicity at 1.6 g/ kg.bw. CPs significantly decreased the levels of COMP and Helix-II in serum. Furthermore, a significant decrease of IL-1β in synovial fluid and cartilage tissue were observed by CPs intervention. From Micro-CT, CPs (0.8 g/ kg.bw) significantly decreased Tb.sp and SMI value. Meanwhile, the expression of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-6 were reduced by CPs administration both in vitro and in vivo. Together, CPs showed potential to be a novel and safe dietary supplement for helping anti-inflammatory and cartilage regeneration, ultimately hindering osteoarthritis development. However, the clear mechanism of CPs's positive effect on osteoarthritis needs to be further explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fermented sea buckthorn juice (FHJ) displayed better antioxidant and antidiabetic properties in vitro. • FHJ ameliorated diet-induced hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota dysbiosis in vivo. • FHJ could interact with Akkermansia to further attenuate metabolic syndrome. • FHJ increased acetate and butyrate contents in caeca. • Fermentation-triggered metabolomic alterations, especially flavonoids in FHJ, played critical roles in the FHJ-microorganism interactions. To enhance physiological activity and probiotic availability of sea buckthorn juice, sea buckthorn juice pulp (BHJ) went through fermentation to the fermented (FHJ). In vitro , FHJ displayed better antioxidant and antidiabetic capacities. To further study effects of FHJ on diet-induced metabolic syndrome (MS) and possible mechanisms in vivo , C57BL/6 mice were fed on BHJ and FHJ under high fat diet (HFD). FHJ, rather BHJ, displayed better performance on ameliorating hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress in MS. Mechanistically, FHJ intervention significantly reversed the microorganism dysbiosis by restoring the microbial diversity, and modulating obesogenic bacteria abundance, like Oscillospira. Furthermore, fermentation altered FHJ's metabolomics, especially flavonoids, contributing to interactions between FHJ and probiotics, like Akkermansia and Lachnospiraceae. Furthermore, short-chain fatty acids, related to ameliorations of MS, were increased by FHJ. This study demonstrated that interactions between metabolomic alterations in FHJ and microorganisms were vital to attenuate MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dynamic effects of glycerol monolaurate (GML) on Larimichthys crocea were explored including feeding and fasting stages. • GML supplementation (1.0 g kg−1) significantly improved the flesh quality and productive performance of Larimichthys crocea. • The flesh quality was evaluated from color, texture, flavor and nutritional value. • GML supplementation (1.0 g kg−1) exhibited promising amelioration effects on Larimichthys crocea. The effects of GML (Glycerol monolaurate) supplementation with two level (0.5 and 1.0 g kg−1) on the productive performance and flesh quality of large yellow croaker (360 per group) were investigated during feeding (23,50-days) and fasting stage (23,70-days). The GML supplementation significantly increased body weight after 23-days and crude protein, inosinic acid, and yellowness after 50-days. Moreover, it increased hardness, springiness, and chewiness by increasing the collagen content, myofiber density, and decreasing myofiber diameter. The high GML supplementation increased the total free amino acids, delicate amino acids, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), and EPA + DHA, whereas it decreased the content of saturated fatty acids/unsaturated fatty acids (SFA/UFA). During fasting, better body shape and color were shown were shown at high GML supplementation. Conclusively, high dose GML supplementation exerted promising effects on the productive performance and flesh quality of large yellow croaker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • LA, GML and GTL ameliorated HFD-induced hyperlipidemia. • GML performed better effects on glucose metabolism and systemic inflammation. • LA and its glycerides-induced improvements were related to gut microbiota regulation. • GML regulated phospholipid metabolism and gut microbe-related metabolites. • GML promoted endogenous unsaturated fatty acids synthesis. The anti-bacterial properties of lauric acid (LA) and its glycerides had been studied. However, their effects on gut microbiota remain unclear. Moreover, LA and its glycerides performed controversial influences on lipid metabolism. This study evaluated the regulation of LA, glycerol monolaurate (GML) and lauric triglyceride (GTL) on metabolic health and gut microbiota in high fat diet-fed mice. Serum metabolomics and lipidomics contributed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. LA and its glycerides ameliorated hyperlipidemia, while GML performed more pronounced modulation on glucose metabolism and inflammation. LA and its glycerides modulated gut microbiota with increased Bifidobacterium and decreased Desulfovibrio , which closely related with metabolic improvements. Furthermore, the integrative multi-omics analyses identified that the regulation of phospholipid metabolism, intestinal microbial metabolites (bile acids and indole derivatives) and endogenous unsaturated fatty acids synthesis conduced to the more evident modulation of GML. Our findings suggested an effective strategy of GML for improving metabolism and gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• S BL may reduce the release of butyric acid in simulated gastric digestion. • The release rate of GML in S LBL was low in simulated digestion. • S BL and S LBL retarded the release of GML in intestinal digestion in vivo. • S BL and S LBL induced positive changes in gut microbes rapidly. Structuring is a feasible scheme to improve lipids' value. Here, S BL and S LBL (C4-C12 structural lipids) were obtained through enzymatic ester-ester transesterification or acidolysis interesterification using glyceryl tributyrate/glyceryl tridodecanoate and lauric acid/glyceryl tributyrate as raw materials, respectively. The digestive characteristics of S BL and S LBL were investigated in vitro and in vivo , meanwhile, their effects on gut microbes were studied. Compared with their corresponding triglyceride physical mixture, S BL possessed an ideal butyric acid sustained-release effect in simulated stomach digestion. Moreover, the sustained-release effect of S LBL on glycerol monolaurate (GML) was revealed both in vivo and in vitro , while this effect of the S BL was obviously occurred in small intestine. S BL significantly increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium and S LBL promoted the growth of Clostridiales within 24 h. Overall, both S BL and S LBL showed ideal sustained-release effects on GML rather than butyric acid, which may lead to positive changes in gut microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A U-type microemulsion system was prepared using a pseudo-ternary phase diagram. [•] DSC detected w/o, bicontinuous and o/w structural regions along a dilution line. [•] The structural transition points coincided with the electrical conductivity results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Glycerol monolaurate (GML) supplementation could significantly improve the flesh quality of Larimichthys crocea. • A diet with 0.075% GML increased the non-essential amino acid and unsaturated fatty acid contents of Larimichthys crocea in muscle. • The addition of GML dramatically augmented amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism. • GML could activate the myogenic-related signaling pathway of Larimichthys crocea in muscle. To improve the quality of cultured large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea), this study was performed to study the impacts of glycerol monolaurate (GML) on the nutritional value, growth performance, muscle texture, and taste intensity of L. crocea. The results showed that GML as a feed additive significantly increased the crude lipid content and reduced the diameters of muscle fibers, which in turn markedly altered the flesh texture in terms of cohesiveness. Moreover, the taste indicators (umami and richness) and flavor-related amino acid (glutamic acid, glycine, and proline) contents of L. crocea muscle were significantly higher in the GML group. Metabolomic and gene expression analyses showed that GML supplementation could significantly improve amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism, promote protein and lipid synthesis, and activate myogenic-related signaling pathways of L. crocea. Consequently, adding an appropriate amount of GML to fish feed would be conducive to providing healthy, nutrient-rich and acceptably flavored aquatic-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A total of 18 differential metabolites were identified in MG-treated chicken broth. • Dietary MG improves chicken broth taste with increased taste-active compounds. • A total of 36 differential metabolites were identified in MG-treated chicken meat. • Dietary MG improves meat quality with up-regulated creatine, l -anserine and IMP. • Amino acid and purine metabolism pathway contribute to MG-induced meat improvement. This study was conducted to reveal the differences of chicken fresh meat quality, composition and taste induced by medium-chain monoglycerides (MG) supplementation. Results demonstrated that both chicken broth and meat taste were improved by MG supplementation. The up-regulated l -carnosine, sarcosine, uridine and nicotinamide in the chicken broth of the MG group contributed to the umami and meaty taste. Dietary MG increased the total superoxide dismutase activity and amino acid content in the muscle of chicken breast and reduced the malondialdehyde content and drip loss. Moreover, meat metabolome revealed that creatine, betaine, l -anserine, inosine 5′-monophosphate, hypoxanthine, inosine and phospholipid, as well as amino acid and purine metabolism pathway connected to the improvements of meat quality, composition and taste of broilers by MG addition. In conclusion, these findings provide convincing evidence regarding the improvements of fresh meat quality, composition and taste of broilers by MG supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A validated 3D pharmacophore model was generated for a series of ACE inhibitory peptides, which consisted of five features (two hydrophobic functions, two hydrogen bond acceptors, and a negative ionizable function). The built model was able to correctly predict the activity of known ACE inhibitors. The model was then used as query to search 3D databases of peptides. Three novel peptides (I, II and III) were synthesized and biologically evaluated in vitro. It appears that the in vitro activity of peptides I, II and III was consistent with their molecular modeling results. Our results provided confidence for the utility of the pharmacophore model to retrieve novel ACE inhibitory peptides with desired biological activity by virtual screening. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The characterization of a pharmaceutical microemulsion system with glycerol monolaurate as oil, ethanol as cosurfactant, Tween 40 as surfactant, sodium diacetate and water, and the antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium expansum have been studied. The influence of ethanol and sodium diacetate on oil solubilization capability was clearly reflected in the phase behavior of these systems. One microemulsion formulation was obtained and remained stable by physical stability studies. The antimicrobial assay using solid medium diffusion method showed that the prepared microemulsion was comparable to the commonly used antimicrobials as positive controls. The kinetics of killing experiments demonstrated that the microemulsion caused a complete loss of viability of bacterial cells (E. coli, S. aureus and B. subtilis) in 1min, killed over 99% A. niger and P. expansum spores and 99.9% C. albicans cells rapidly within 2min and resulted in a complete loss of fungal viability in 5min. The fast killing kinetics of the microemulsion was in good agreement with the transmission electron microscopy observations, indicating the antimembrane activity of the microemulsion on bacterial and fungal cells due to the disruption and dysfunction of biological membranes and cell walls. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Microemulsions are colloidal nanodispersions of oil and water stabilized by an interfacial film of surfactant molecules, typically in conjunction with a cosurfactant. There is a limited number of reports in the literature on microemulsion use for antimicrobial purposes. The physicochemical characterization of a food-grade fully dilutable microemulsion system with glycerol monolaurate (GML) as oil, organic acids as cosurfactant, Tween 80 as surfactant, and the antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus have been studied in this paper. The influence of organic acids on oil solubilization was clearly reflected in the phase behavior of these systems. Propionic acid demonstrated the greatest capability to improve the oil solubilization among the tested linear and nonlinear chain organic acids and contributed to the formation of U-type microemulsion systems. One microemulsion formulation with an average particle size of 8nm was selected, the composition is GML/propionic acid/Tween 80/water=3:9:8:12. The kinetics of killing experiments demonstrated that the undiluted microemulsion caused a complete loss of viability of E. coli or S. aureus cells in 1min and still had effective bactericidal effects even when diluted, more than 99% viable E. coli cells were killed within 15min and a complete loss of viability was achieved at 45min while more than 99% viable S. aureus cells were killed within 30min and a complete loss of viability was achieved at 60min in the presence of the 10-fold diluted microemulsion. The fast killing kinetics of the ten-fold serial dilutions of microemulsions were in good agreement with the mode of action studies, indicating that the interaction between the antimicrobial microemulsions and bacterial membranes significantly decreased the bacterial cell surface hydrophobicity and induced the quick release of 260nm absorbing materials. This work suggests the potential use of food-grade fully dilutable microemulsions for antimicrobial purposes in beverages or seafood products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The physicochemical characterization of a food-grade glycerol monolaurate (GML)/ethanol/Tween 20/sodium lactate (SL)/water microemulsion system and the antimicrobial activities against Bacillus subtilis have been studied in this paper. The influence of ethanol and SL on oil solubilization capability was clearly reflected in the phase behavior of these systems. The addition of ethanol in GML/Tween 20/water system greatly improved the oil solubilization and induced the formation of a U-type microemulsion system, while a transition from U-type to S-type microemulsion system was observed with the increasing concentration of sodium lactate. Two microemulsion formulations were obtained and remained stable by physical stability studies. Antimicrobial results showed that the microemulsions were effective in inhibiting the viable bacteria cells and the bacteria growth. Later it was found that the microemulsions had synergistic antimicrobial activities with a major contribution of GML and the solubilization of SL enhanced the antimicrobial effects. This work indicated that microemulsions are promising delivery vectors for antimicrobial applications in food industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Novelty; affinity-ultrafiltration technique used to explore XODI peptide. • Peptides with MW cutoff of 600–1000 Da (UF-2) possessed XODI potential. • UF-2 exhibited the highest antioxidant and XODI activities. • ACECD discovered as a novel XODI peptide derived from Skipjack tuna. • ACECD and UF-2 possibly be used as nutraceuticals for hyperuricemia treatment. This study aimed to isolate and investigate the potential of the peptide alanine-cysteine-glutamic acid-cysteine-aspartic acid (ACECD), a novel xanthine oxidase inhibitory (XODI) peptide derived from Skipjack tuna hydrolysate (HS). Ultrafiltration membranes were used to obtain HS-based peptides as successive ultrafiltration fractions (of decreasing molecular weight) of UF-1, UF-2, UF-3, and UF-4. Their antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitory activities were determined and further characterized by affinity-ultrafiltration coupled with HPLC-MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS and in silico techniques. The results showed that peptides with a molecular weight (MW) cutoff of 600–1000 Da (UF-2) exhibited the highest antioxidant and XODI activities. A novel XODI peptide (ACECD) was identified with an IC 50 value of 13.40 mmol/L, which decreased by 21.24% and 51.40% compared to those of UF-2 and HS, respectively. Molecular docking indicated that ACECD inserted into the active center of Mo atoms in XOD, which led to competitive attachment with XOD and caused inhibition. The study findings indicated that the ACECD peptide could be useful as a safe XODI substance to alleviate hyperuricemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The ethylcellulose/gelatin/ethylcellulose film was fabricated by sequential electrospinning. • The multilayer film showed high thermal stability due to hydrogen bonds between two adjacent layers. • The multilayer film exhibited a sustained release manner of the encapsulated curcumin for 96 h. • The antioxidant activities of curcumin from the multilayer film were retained during the release. In this work, sequential electrospinning was utilized to fabricate a multilayer film with ethylcellulose nanofibers as the outer layer and curcumin-loaded gelatin nanofibers as the inner layer. Field-emission scanning electronic microscopy observations showed that the outer and inner layers had a smooth surface and clear boundary. The hydrophobic outer layers decreased the water vapor permeability and improved the water contact resistance of the hydrophilic inner layer, and the intimate interactions of hydrogen bonds between two adjacent layers enhanced the thermal stability. The multilayer film exhibited a sustained release manner of the encapsulated curcumin for 96 h, compared to the burst release within 30 min from the gelatin film. In addition, the antioxidant activities of the released curcumin from the multilayer film were well retained within 96 h. These results suggested that the multilayer nanofibrous film fabricated by sequential electrospinning has potential applications in bioactive encapsulation and controlled release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]