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Among the minority seawater species in the ornamental fish market, clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) have a high market value due to their vibrant appearance. Astaxanthin, a promising coloring agent, is applied in diets as a food additive to enhance the physical appearance of clownfish. However, as the retail price of astaxanthin has been inflating, the industry is eager to find more affordable astaxanthin products. The present study evaluated the nutrients and pigmentation performance of the algae-extracted astaxanthin diets of clownfish, followed by a comparative feeding trial evaluating the graded levels of either Haematococcus pluvialis powder or extracted astaxanthin supplements in the experimental diets. The study included three stages: assessing the utilization of H. pluvialis powder as an astaxanthin source, investigating the optimal practical extraction method, and revisiting the effects of crude extracted astaxanthin on clownfish based on the identified preparation processes. In the first stage, H. pluvialis powder was applied as the feed additive for a feeding trial, resulting in a low-utilization rate of astaxanthin in clownfish. This indicated that a suitable extraction method was essential for clownfish. Two chemical-based methods for astaxanthin extraction were investigated to obtain the optimal extraction yields; results showed that the HCl–acetone method had an astaxanthin yield of 21.99 ± 0.52 mg/g cell, which was significantly higher than the yield from the acetic acid-DMSO method. Finally, the effects of HCl–acetone-extracted astaxanthin was compared with the effects of synthesized astaxanthin. The pigmentation performance study was performed using a digital image acquisition and processing technique. A significant increase in the red color signal was observed at week six after fed with 400 and 200 mg/kg of the extracted astaxanthin, compared to the control 0 mg/kg. In conclusion, H. pluvialis-extracted astaxanthin following the HCl–acetone method can significantly improve the pigmentation performance of A. ocellaris after 42 days of oral administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity of fermented Caulerpa microphysa byproduct (FCMB) by Bacillus subtilis was evaluated, and its potential as a feed additive for white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) was explored. In vitro experiments showed that the FCMB supernatant contained polysaccharides, polyphenols and flavonoids, and exhibited antioxidant properties as assessed by various antioxidant assays. Additionally, the FCMB supernatant was found to increase the production rate of reactive oxygen species and the activity of phenoloxidase in hemocytes in vitro. Furthermore, the results of the in vivo feeding trial showed that dietary 5 g kg−1 FCMB significantly improved the weight gain and specific growth rate of white shrimp after 56 days of feeding. Although there were no significant differences in total hemocyte count, phagocytosis, superoxide anion production rate, and phenoloxidase activity among the experimental groups, upregulation of immune-related genes was observed, particularly in the hepatopancreas and hemocytes of shrimps fed with 5 g or 50 g FCMB per kg feed, respectively. In the pathogen challenge assay, white shrimp fed with 5 % FCMB exhibited a higher survival rate compared to the control group following Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge. Therefore, it is concluded that the fermented byproduct of C. microphysa , FCMB, holds potential as a feed additive for enhancing the growth performance and disease resistance against V. parahaemolyticus in white shrimp. • The fermented Caulerpa microphysa byproduct (FCMB) contains immunoregulators and antioxidants. • Dietary 5 g kg−1 FCMB significantly improved the growth performance of white shrimp after 56 days of feeding. • Immune-related genes were upregulated in the hepatopancreas and hemocytes of white shrimp fed with FCMB. • White shrimp fed with 5 % FCMB had a higher survival rate following Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Caulerpa racemosa (Agardh, 1873) polysaccharides (CRP) on non-specific immunity of the white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei (Boone, 1931). The extracted polysaccharide consists of galactose, glucose, and mannose. Total polyphenolic compound and total flavonoids content in CRP were determined. In vitro CRP treatment did not alter cell viability of haemocytes and significantly activated phenoloxidase (PO) activity, superoxide anion production capacity, phagocytic rate, and index in haemocytes. Immune parameters, such as total haemocyte count, PO activity, phagocytosis, and superoxide anion production, were significantly elevated in CRP-fed shrimp during the rearing period. Malondialdehyde levels in the hepatopancreas of CRP-fed shrimp were lower than in control shrimp from day 7 to day 28. These results show that CRP exhibits antioxidant activity and can activate immune responses of white shrimp in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, CRP can be considered a functional feed additive to improve white shrimp immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sargassum ilicifolium, the dominant brown macroalgae in the northeast coastal area of Taiwan, is a crucial member in the marine ecosystem. Recently, various bioactive compounds and extracts within the Sargassum genus have been applied to disease treatment, health maintenance, the food industry, and agriculture. Therefore, the demand for this alga is increasing. To satisfy industry demand and to prevent the loss of natural stock due to harvesting without limits, the development of artificial cultivation is necessary. Following investigation of growth maturation in 2016, the present study aims to determine the optimal conditions for sexual reproduction. Our data showed that egg release and fertilization percentage were positively correlated with temperature, but sperm release was not. The optimal temperature for egg bearing and fertilization was 25 °C, which yielded 73.03 ± 10.94 eggs per receptacle over a period of 9 days and attained an 84.74 ± 6.59% fertilization percentage. Moreover, irradiance was the only stimulating factor on sperm bearing. The number of sperm released in a receptacle area (6.72 × 104 μm2) could be improved above 20% under an irradiance of 100 μmol photons m−2 s−1 compared with an irradiance of 20 or 50 μmol photons m−2 s−1. Thus, this study could provide the preliminary cultivation condition for developing the artificial technique of S. ilicifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the growth and spawning characteristics of wild Channa lucius (Cuvier, 1831) populations in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The study was carried out from March 2011 to February 2012. The length–weight relationship of C. lucius was determined according to the equations W = 0.0044L3.2494, R2 = 0.9157 (female fish) and W = 0.0047L3.2178, R2 = 0.9434 (male fish). The length and weight of the body for female fish ranged from 16.3 to 36.0 cm and 49.0 to 550.0 g, and for male fish, from 14.6 to 38.2 cm and 46.0 to 639.0 g, respectively. Female and male fish had almost similar lengths at first maturity (21.3958 cm for females and 21.3952 cm for males). The condition factor of female fish ranged from 0.842 to 0.864 and for male fish ranged from 0.848 to 0.874. The gonadosomatic index of female fish was highest in June (1.68%) and lowest in November (0.69%); that of male fish was highest in June (0.53%) and lowest in September (0.15%). The sexual maturity rate (SMR) of female fish peaked in May, with SMRs of 33.3% (stage III) and 58.3% (stage IV). In conclusion, C. lucius has a positive allometric range (b > 3), reaching sexual maturity when its length reaches 21.39 cm for both sexes, and the spawning season begins in December but peaks in May and June. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of Aurantiochytrium spp. microalgae meal and oil as dietary docosahexaenoic acid ( DHA) sources on the growth, fatty acid composition and DHA retention of orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides. Dietary fish oil was replaced with microalgae meal or oil to provide an equal amount of DHA as a fish oil-containing basal diet. In total, three experimental diets were fed to triplicate groups of fish (initial wt: 8.48 ± 0.06 g) in a recirculating system for 8 weeks. The weight gain and feed efficiency of the fish did not differ significantly among the experimental diets. The fatty acid composition of the whole body of the fish generally reflected the composition of their diet. The concentration of eicosapentaenoic acid in the whole body was higher in the fish fed the fish meal control diet than in those fed the two experimental diets The fish fed the control diet and those fed the diet containing microalgae oil exhibited higher DHA concentrations than did the fish fed the diet containing microalgae meal. The whole-body DHA retention was the highest in the fish fed the diet with microalgae oil, followed by the fish fed the control diet. The lowest whole-body DHA retention was observed in the fish fed the diet containing microalgae meal. The results suggested that the oil from Aurantiochytrium spp. microalgae can be used as DHA source for the grouper. DHA utilization by the fish was higher when the diet was supplemented with microalgae oil than with dry microalgae meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is investigating the effect of minor bupleurum decoction (Xiao-Chai-Hu decoction) on the non-specific immune response of white shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei ). To determine prophenoloxidase activity (proPO), reactive oxygen species production (ROS), superoxide anion production (O 2 − ), nitric oxide production (NO), phagocytic rate (PR), phagocytic index (PI), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), total haemocyte count (THC) and differential haemocyte count (DHC). In this experiment, treating with different dosages (0, 0.25, 0.5 and, 1%) of minor bupleurum decoction to detect immune parameters on day 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Result is shown that 0.25% treatment significantly enhanced the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and, 0.25 and 1% treatment significantly increased the ROS production, nitric oxide (NO) production and phagocytic rate (PR) moreover, 0.5 and 1% treatment induced the proPO activity and superoxide anion (O 2 − ) production. Evidence exactly indicated that minor bupleurum decoction is able to enhance the non-specific immunity responses of white shrimp via in vivo examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Strategic culture conditions were used to improve PE extraction. • Algae growth increased 7–9 fold after optimization of the culture system. • A maximum 9–10 mg g−1 TPBP could be obtained. • PE accounts for up to 60%–65% of TPBP during strategic cultivation. • Strategic cultivation supported the technology's economic feasibility. Phycoerythrin (PE) is a compound with strong potential for both basic research and industrial applications, but short supply and high prices have so far hindered its development. One common problem is a shortage of biomass for extraction. The aim of the present study was to determine a cultivation strategy (optimizing temperature, irradiance, photoperiod, and light quality) to produce greater biomass and higher PE concentrations in the alga Colaconema sp. We found that an optimized culture process could increase algae growth 7–9 fold while allowing extraction of 9–10 mg g−1 total phycobiliproteins, containing 60%–65% PE. Low energy costs make this approach economically feasible and competitive when compared with existing methods. Our results suggest an improved strategy for the large-scale production of PE and offer valuable applications in the algae industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature, light intensity (LI), adsorbent source and concentrations are key external factors affecting algal metabolism and thus metal–accumulation mechanisms. In this study, the alga Sarcodia suiae was exposed individually to a range of temperature (15, 20, and 25 °C), and LI (30, 55, and 80 μmol photons m−2 s−1) at initial arsenate [As(V)] concentration (i conc: 0, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 μg L−1) conditions, to investigate the variations of total arsenic (TAs) and inorganic arsenic (iAs) accumulation mechanisms in the algal body. Temperature significantly affected TAs and arsenite [As(III)] production and maximum absorption were obtained at 15 °C, which was significantly stimulated by increasing i conc. However, the temperature did not affect As(V) production. LI had no significant effect on TAs or iAs production, although maximum absorption was estimated in 80 μmol photons m−2 s−1. The iAs component of TAs was much greater in the temperature experiment particularly under 250–500 μg L−1 i conc than in the LI experiment, is witnessed. Overall, temperature and i conc strongly affected As accumulation. The predominant iAs produced was As(III), regardless of temperature or LI, suggesting that the alga favored As(III) biosorption. Also, visible effects on the morphology of this alga were adverse with increased concentration and environmental factors did affect the difference somewhat. Our results contribute to improving our understanding of the effects of the tested factors on As cycling, which is necessary for maximizing biosorption of algae if utilized for bioremediation studies as well as in the wastewater treatment implementation approach in the environment. Image 1 • Temperature impacts the total arsenic (TAs) and As(III) accumulation. • Light intensity condition did not affect TAs and inorganic arsenic (iAs) accumulation. • Arsenite[As(III)] produced was comparatively higher than As(V) regardless of temperature or light conditions. • Increased initial concentration enhanced the biosorption efficiency disregard of temperature or light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are evolutionarily conserved proteins of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and play a crucial role in innate immune systems recognition of conserved pathogen-related molecular samples (PAMPs). We identified and characterized TLR18 from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), OnTLR18 , to elucidate its role in tissue expression patterns, modulation of gene expression after microbial challenge and TLR ligands, subcellular localization in fish and human cells, and the possible effectors TLR18 induces in a melanomacrophage-like cell line (tilapia head kidney (THK) cells). OnTLR18 expression was detected in all tissues examined, with the highest levels in the intestine and the lowest in the liver. OnTLR18 transcript was up-regulated in immune-related organs after bacterial and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) challenges and in the THK cells after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. In transfected THK and human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells, OnTLR18 localizes in the intracellular compartment. OnMyD88 and OnTRIF, but not OnTIRAP, were co-immunoprecipitated with OnTLR18, suggesting that the former two molecules are recruited by OnTLR18 as adaptors. The constitutively active form of OnTLR18 induced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, type I interferon (IFN), and antimicrobial peptides such as tumor necrosis factor α , interferon (IFN) d2.13 , tilapia piscidin (TP) 2, TP3, TP4, and hepcidin in THK cells. Our results suggest that OnTLR18 plays an important role in innate immunity through initiating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and IFN signaling pathways via OnMyD88 and OnTRIF and induces the production of various effectors in melanomacrophages. • OnTLR18 was cloned and characterized from Nile tilapia. • The expression of OnTLR18 was induced after bacterial injection and LPS stimulation. • OnTLR18 was localized to internal cellular compartments. • OnTLR18 recruited MyD88 and TRIF as adaptors. • Overexpression of truncated OnTLR18 promotes immune-related transcription factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify a local red microalga in Taiwan through morphology and molecular phylogeny. Then, to determine the optimal culture conditions, as in temperature, light intensity and light quality, for the mass production of B-phycoerythrin using the microalga, growth and pigment content of the microalga under different cultivation conditions were studied with two-factor experiments. The microalga was cultivated at four temperatures (16, 20, 24 and 28 ℃) and under three light intensities (20, 60 and 100 μmol photons m−2 s−1) to study the interaction effect of temperature and light intensity. The microalga was also cultivated at the mentioned temperatures under white, red, green and blue lights to study the interaction effect of temperature and light quality. The cell number, relative index of chlorophyll, and relative index of phycoerythrin (RIPE) were analysed by flow cytometry. After morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, the species was identified as Rhodosorus marinus. When studying the effect of temperature and light intensity, the R. marinus cultivated at 20–24 ℃ under a light intensity of 100 μmol photons m−2 s−1 produced high cell number and RIPEs. Using the optimal light intensity for cell number accumulation, R. marinus cultivated under white light at 20–28 ℃ produced high cell number and RIPEs. In conclusion, this study showed that a temperature of 20–24 ℃ with 100 μmol photons m−2 s−1 of white light can promote growth in R. marinus and produce cell number containing the highest phycoerythrin contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algal susceptivity to inorganic arsenate As(V) is linked to the plant nutrient phosphate due to their similar uptake processes. This study determines the response of Sarcodia suae to three phosphate concentrations (1, 10 and 20 mg l–1) when exposed to As(V) (0, 250 µg l–1) for 7 days. The parameters measured include growth, pigments (Chlorophyll a (Chl a), allophycocyanin (APC), phycocyanin (PC), phycoerythrin (PE), total phycobiliproteins (TPBP) and carotenoids), inorganic arsenic (iAs), and total arsenic (TAs) uptake behaviour and bioaccumulation capacity. The growth rate showed significant differences among treatments. Significantly higher levels of pigments including Chl a and carotenoids were observed with an increase in external phosphate concentrations. On the other hand, APC, PC, PE and TPBP showed no significant differences among treatments. The trend of iAs and TAs uptake when phosphate is high suggests competition between phosphate and As(V) as is evident from the reduction of uptake with increased phosphate. The depletion of phosphate and As(V) in the medium also suggests accumulation by the algae. In addition, S. suae was considered an As accumulator but not a hyperaccumulator as defined on its bioaccumulation capacity of 48 and 97 mg kg–1 of iAs and TAs, respectively. Overall, these findings suggest that environmental factors including levels of phosphate have a key role in developing effective As bioremediation in the environment. Highlights Phosphate in Sarcodia suae probably regulates arsenic uptake. Photosynthetic pigments can be linked to competitive mechanisms of As(V). The red alga Sarcodia suae is a candidate for As wastewater treatments by Bioconcentration Factor analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum), a commercially important marine fish, has been used to develop a novel gill cell line, designated CG, for the first time. The CG cell line was cultured in Leibovitz's-15 medium with 5% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and successfully sub-cultured more than 110 passages. It underwent verification through sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Optimal growth rate was achieved when the CG cell line was cultured in a medium supplemented with 5% FBS, 1% Penicillin-Streptomycin (P/S), and 5 parts per thousand (ppt) of coral sea salt water, maintained at a temperature of 27 °C. The addition of 5 ppt of salt in the growth medium suggests that this cell line could be a viable in vitro tool for marine ecosystem toxicological studies or for culturing marine parasitic microorganisms. The CG cell line was also successfully transfected using the pTurbo-GFP plasmids, showing an 18% efficiency, with observable GFP expression. Furthermore, the cell line has been effectively cryopreserved. Gene expression analysis indicated that the CG cell line exhibits responsive regulation of immune gene expression when exposured to various stimulants, highlighting its potential as an in vitro platform for immune response studies. This makes it suitable for exploring dynamic immune signaling pathways and host-pathogen interactions, thereby offering valuable insights for therapeutic development. • A novel cell line derived from cobia gill (CG) has been successfully established. • The origin of the CG cell line was authenticated, and it has been sub-cultured for more than 110 passages. • Optimal culturing conditions for the CG cell line have been verified. • Transfection efficiency of the CG cell line was examined. • The CG cell line performs phagocytosis and responds to various immunostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is an important food fish species that is mainly cultivated in tropical and subtropical countries. However, microbial diseases have created various difficulties for this industry. The fundamental prerequisite for tackling disease outbreak prevention and disease resistance is to know how hosts' immune responses against invading microbes are initiated. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are vital pattern recognition receptors and play pivotal roles in the cellular innate immunity defense that is able to recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). In this study, Oreochromis niloticus TLR23 (OnTLR23) was cloned and bioinformatic analyses revealed that OnTLR23 is not an ortholog of mammalian TLR13 as previously suggested. The basal transcript level of OnTLR23 was found to be higher in the immune-related organs and was upregulated in the spleen and/or head kidney following Aeromonas hydrophila , Streptococcus agalactiae or poly I:C injections, and increased in the melanomacrophage-like tilapia head kidney (THK) cell line after LPS and zymosan stimulation. Furthermore, we demonstrated for the first time that OnTLR23 locates mainly in the intracellular region in fish cells and the constitutively active form of OnTLR23 promotes the expression of molecules related to antigen presentation, proinflammatory cytokines, antimicrobial peptides and type I interferon in THK cells. A co-immunoprecipitation assay revealed that OnTLR23 can interact with both OnMyD88 and OnTRIF, but not with OnTIRAP. A luciferase assay showed that the NF-κB activity was not elevated in the OnTLR23 overexpressed THK cells after treatment with ligand for TLR13 as well as other known purified bacterial-derived ligands of TLRs. Taken together, OnTLR23 is likely to recruit OnMyD88 and OnTRIF as adaptors to induce the expression of various effectors in melanomacrophages, but its corresponding ligand is an issue awaiting further investigation. • OnTLR23a was cloned and characterized from Nile tilapia. • The expression of OnTLR23 was induced after bacterial injection and LPS stimulation. • OnTLR23 was localized to internal cellular compartments. • OnTLR23 recruited MyD88 and TRIF as adaptors. • Overexpression of truncated OnTLR23 promotes upregulation of immune-related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryptophyte alga Proteomonas sulcata is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, phycoerythrin, and other biologically active substances and is suitable for aquatic feed, biomedical applications, and other related industries. To stimulate and increase the production of P. sulcata, we investigated the optimal culture conditions and two-stage culture of this alga under various factors (temperature, light intensity, and quality) using flow cytometry analysis. When cultivated at 24 °C with a light intensity of 100 μmol photons m-2 s-1 and white light, the highest yield of biomass production was achieved (5.87 ± 0.30 × 106 cells mL-1), while the highest relative index of phycoerythrin (i. e., phycoerythrin content) was obtained under green or red light. Although white light will result in the highest growth, red light could stimulate higher phycoerythrin content in cells. Finally, we suggested that flow cytometry could provide a dependable relative value of phycoerythrin content. This study is the first to confirm that flow cytometry can be used to collect physiological information on P. sulcata and sheds light on the optimal culture conditions for the growth of this alga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet (UV-C) irradiation is the most important part of water filtration, which has no side effects on the environment and has been used in water purification systems in the aquaculture and transistor industries. In this research, the effect of UV-C on Chlorella sp. was investigated. Chlorella sp. was irradiated 0, 1, 2 or 3 times at a fixed flow rate of 6.5 L min−1 and the effects of UV-C LED on the apoptosis rate and death rate of Chlorella sp. were analyzed by flow cytometry after staining cells with the nucleic acid dye SYTOX Green and the membrane-associated protein stain Annexin V-PE Reagent. As a result of UV-C irradiation, the Chlorella sp. cells underwent phosphatidylserine (PS) ectropion and plasma membrane damage, which resulted in death. The effect of UV-C was proportional to the number of times of irradiation. Three doses of UV-C LED irradiation resulted in a 91.76 ± 3.33% death rate, as observed through SYTOX Green staining, with no rebound within 72 h. This research is the first report to observe that delayed cellular apoptosis occurred in Chlorella sp., and we expect that our study can be used as a standard reference for future industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of katuk (Sauropus androgynus L. Merr) on growth, non-specific immune and diseases resistance against Vibrio alginolyticus in grouper (Epinephelus coioides). Grouper juveniles (mean weight 10.97 ± 1.99 g, and length 9.67 ± 0.33 cm) were separated into four groups and cultivated in 100-L tank. Each group was fed with diets containing 0, 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 g/kg herbs diet twice daily. Fish were sampled for non-specific immune parameters at 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 14 and 30 days. Results showed that fish received S. androgynus at 1.0 and 2.5 g/kg diets affected the growth and non-specific immune responses. Weight gain, specific growth rate, respiratory burst activity, phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species significantly increased in fish administered with 1.0 and 2.5 g/kg S. androgynus diets. The mortality rate after V. alginolyticus challenge decreased in fish fed with 1.0 g/kg S. androgynus extract. Thus, this study indicated that administration of grouper with S. androgynus supplemented diets can affect the growth performances, diseases resistance and enhances non-specific immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 30–36 psu and 1.2 g/L of inorganic carbon stimulate growth rates of 18% per day. • Algae alter phycobiliprotein ratio to manage salinity and inorganic carbon stress. • Phycocyanin concentration is significantly affected by salinity. • Two factors interactions don't affect chlorophyll and photosynthetic efficiency. • Below 25 psu, salinity had more significant effect on algae than inorganic carbon. This study investigates a cultivation strategy for the macroalga Colaconema formosanum by determining optimal inorganic carbon concentration and salinity for maximizing biomass and photosynthetic pigment production while also facilitating carbon sequestration. The response surface method was used with a central composite design (CCD-RSM) to determine the optimal conditions. Results showed that adding 1.2 g/L of carbon increased the specific growth rate to 18%–19% per day. The maximum amount of pigment, including phycobiliprotein and chlorophyll, was achieved by adjusting both carbon content and salinity. This strategy enables mass pigment production and offers an eco-friendly approach to carbon sequestration while reducing culture period. This study also sheds light on algal mechanisms against enriched inorganic carbon and salinity content, contributing to an enhanced understanding of these vital processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of three medicinal herbal extracts, namely Bidens pilosa (BPE), Lonicera japonica (LJE), and Cyathula officinalis (COE), on nonspecific immune parameters of cobia (Rachycentron canadum) in vitro and in vivo. During in vitro tests, BPE treatment increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in a dose-dependent manner in primary head kidney leukocytes. Similarly, ROS production rates were enhanced by LJE (50 and 100 mg/ml) and COE (100 mg/ml). This suggests that these three herbal extracts possess immunostimulating properties. We then conducted two feeding trials to examine the effects of these three herbal extracts on growth and innate immune parameters of cobia, and sought an optimal dietary supplementation proportion required for activating the non-specific immune responses. In the first trial, we supplemented the diet with 1, 5, or 10% of the individual extracts. After a ten-week feeding trial, no negative impacts on weight gain, feed conversion rate, and survival rate were observed in fish offered experimental diets. Further, ROS production, phagocytic capacity of the head kidney leukocytes, and serum lysozyme activity were enhanced by differing degrees in fish fed the herbal extracts compared to fish in the control group. A similar albumin/globulin ratio was seen between each experimental group and the control group regardless of the type and dose of herbal extract used, indicating these medicinal herbal extracts are safe for cobia. We then performed a 30-day feeding trial with lower extract concentrations (1, 3, and 5% of the diet) to identify dose responses in cobia at various time points so that we could establish a cost-effective manner of administering the three extracts for cobia. All BPE fed fish had higher ROS production compared to the control group, while phagocytosis rate and index were simultaneously raised in only the BPE30 group (3% BPE). Immune parameters such as ROS production, phagocytic rate, and serum lysozyme activity were triggered when fish received 30 g LJE per kg of feed. However, ROS production only increased in the LJE10 group (1% LJE) on day 30 and was not enhanced in the LJE50 group (5% LJE). Additionally, although the phagocytic rate and phagocytic index were induced in the LJE50 group, serum lysozyme activity was not elevated in this group (LJE50) at any time point examined. ROS production was greatly improved in all COE fed groups, but only the COE30 group (3% COE) showed prolonged enhanced phagocytic rate over the 30-day feeding trial. • A diet supplemented with medicinal herbal extracts did not inhibit cobia growth. • The three herbal extracts significantly increased reactive oxygen species production in vitro. • Dietary ingestion of the three herbal extracts promoted innate immune parameters. • Supplementing the feed with 3% of the individual herbal extracts is the optimal dosage for cobia cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, water extracts of the red seaweed Sarcodia suiae were obtained using solid-liquid extraction (SLE) or pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) methods. The extracts were used to investigate immunostimulatory activity by measuring the phagocytic activity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) hepatic and splenic macrophages and the tilapia head kidney (THK) cell line, and modulation of immune-related genes in primary head kidney (HK) cells and THK cells. At 10 μg/ml, both extracts promoted the proliferation of hepatic and splenic macrophages. Expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-8), antimicrobial peptides (TP2 and TP4), and pattern recognition receptors (TLR5) were elevated in SLE extracts-treated primary HK leukocytes. Similarly, IL-1β , IL-8, and TNFα expression was also induced by SLE extract in THK cells. Phagocytic activity in primary HK cells and THK cells was induced by SLE extract 12 h and 24 h post-stimulation, while PLE extract only induced phagocytic activity in THK cells at early time points. SLE extract (100 μg/g body weight) increased the expression of IL-1β , IL-8 , TNFα , TP2 , TP4 , TLR2 and TLR5 in the spleen and immunoprotective efficiency against Streptococcus agalactiae infection. Taken together, these results show that S. suiae can differentially stimulate the immune response of tilapia in vitro and in vivo and could potentially be used as an immunomodulator in tilapia culture. • Water extracts of Sarcodia suiae promote phagocytic activity in tilapia primary macrophages. • Water extracts of Sarcodia suiae promote phagocytic activity in the tilapia head kidney (THK) cell line. • Water extracts of S. suiae induce expression of immune genes in tilapia primary HK cells and THK cells. • Water extracts of S. suiae can protect Nile tilapia against Streptococcus agalactiae infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei is one of the most commercially important aquatic species. However, intensive farming to meet economic demands has been linked to animal stress and subsequent disease outbreaks. In this study, we explore the immunomodulatory effects of Sargassum horneri hot-water extract (SHE) on the immune parameters of L. vannamei. Hemocytes incubated in vitro with 10 mg/ml of SHE showed the highest response in phenoloxidase (PO) activity and reactive oxygen species production. In the in vivo trials, shrimp were fed diets containing 0 (control), 2.5 (SHE 2.5), 5.0 g (SHE 5.0), and 10 g (SHE10.0) of lyophilized SHE per kg feed for four weeks, after which immune parameters were measured. Group SHE10.0 had the highest total hemocyte count, reactive oxygen species production, and phagocytic rate during the 4-week feeding period, followed by groups SHE5.0 and SHE2.5. However, group SHE5.0 showed a better growth performance among all examined groups after four weeks of rearing. Furthermore, gene expression analysis revealed that L. vannamei fed diets containing 0.5% SHE over 28 days showed significant modulation of 11 immune-related genes, including prophenoloxidase I, prophenoloxidase II, peroxinectin, α2macroglobulin, clotting protein, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, penaiedin2-4, and crustin. Combined, these results show that SHE is a functional feed additive that can be applied orally to enhance innate immunity and growth performance of white shrimps. • Sargassum horneri hot-water extract (SHE) raises phenoloxidase activity in hemocytes in vitro. • SHE promotes reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in hemocytes in vitro. • Dietary SHE induces an increase in immune parameters in shrimp hemocytes. • Dietary SHE (at 5 g/kg of feed) improves the growth performance of white shrimp. • Nine immune genes are detected as upregulated in the hemocytes of shrimp fed SHE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Inorganic carbon enhances macroalgae biomass and pigment production. • One g L-1 of mixed carbon provides a pH in a range for optimal algal growth. • Algae adjust allophycocyanin content to adapt to increasing daily light. • Algae adjust the ratios of phycoerythrin and allophycocyanin to adapt to added carbon. • One g L-1 inorganic carbon increased biomass by 60%. Due to an increasing CO 2 concentration leading to global warming, the techniques as carbon capture utilization and storage are currently critical issues. This study aimed to investigate a cultivation strategy using optimal inorganic carbon level, irradiance, and photoperiod for producing the highest biomass and photosynthesis pigment contents (chlorophyll and phycobiliprotein) in the macroalga Colaconema formosanum. The results revealed that adding 1 g L-1 carbon increases phycoerythrin ratio by 12.52–13.74% and decreases allophycocyanin by 10.4–9.57%. Optimal conditions can increase algal growth by 60%, providing 5–6 mg g−1 total phycobiliprotein and 650–680 µg g−1 total chlorophyll. The results in this study illustrate the sensitivity of photosynthesis pigment after treatment with carbon, and suggest a hypothesis explaining the mechanism. The results also provide a feasible use of carbon for high-value large-scale production of pigment in the macroalgae industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The head kidney was primary organ that accumulated methylmercury in hybrid grouper. Muscle tissue had lower methylmercury content than the head kidney and liver. Nonspecific immune responses and bioaccumulation of methylmercury were linked to hybrid grouper health. Mercury (Hg) is a dangerous heavy metal that can accumulate in fish and is harmful when consumed by humans. This study investigated the bioaccumulation of mercury in the form of methylmercury (MeHg) and evaluated nonspecific immune responses such as phagocytic activity and superoxide anion (O2−) production in hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × E. lanceolatus). The hybrid grouper leukocytes were incubated with methylmercury chloride (CH3HgCl) at concentrations of 10–10,000 µg/L to determine cell viability, phagocytic activity, and O2− production in vitro. Subsequently, the grouper were exposed daily to CH3HgCl mixed in the experimental diets at concentrations of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg for 28 days. The bioaccumulation of MeHg in the liver, head kidney, and muscle tissue was measured, and the phagocytic activity and O2− production were evaluated. In vitro results indicated that cell viability was significantly lower than that of the control group at concentrations > 500 µg/L. The phagocytic rate and O2− production at concentrations ˃ 500 and ˃ 200 µg/L, respectively, were significantly lower than those of the control group. The dietary exposure demonstrated that MeHg accumulated more substantially in the liver and head kidney compared with the muscle tissue in the treatment groups. Moreover, the cumulative concentration significantly increased with higher concentrations and more days of exposure. The phagocytic rate and O2− production in the treatment groups were significantly lower than those in the control group from days 2 and 1, respectively. In conclusion, hybrid grouper accumulated significant MeHg in the liver and head kidney compared with the muscle tissue, and higher concentrations and more exposure days resulted in decreased cell viability, phagocytic activity, and O2− production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this study, we found that phycoerythrin from Colaconema sp. can differentially stimulate the immune response of whiteleg shrimp in vitro and in vivo and could potentially be used as an immunomodulator in shrimp culture. We investigated whether phycoerythrin (PE), a pigment sourced from marine algae, could act as an immunomodulatory agent in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). To this end, PE was extracted and purified from a PE-rich macroalgae, Colaconema sp. Our in vitro analysis demonstrated that PE enhanced prophenoloxidase and phagocytosis activity but inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species in hemocytes. Additionally, the PE signal could be detected using an in vivo imaging system after its injection into the ventral sinus of the cephalothorax of whiteleg shrimp. The expression profiles of fourteen immune-related genes were monitored in hemocytes from whiteleg shrimp injected with 0.30 μg of PE per gram of body weight, and crustin, lysozyme, penaiedin 4, and anti-lipopolysaccharide factor showed up-regulated post-stimulation. The induction of immune genes and enhancement of innate immune parameters by PE may explain the higher survival rates for shrimp that received different doses of PE prior to being challenged with Vibrio parahaemolyticus or white spot syndrome virus compared to controls. Combined, these results show that PE from Colaconema sp. can differentially stimulate the immune response of whiteleg shrimp in vitro and in vivo and could potentially be used as an immunomodulator in shrimp culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rapidly increasing. This disease is associated with many complications including male reproductive dysfunctions and infertility. Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda) is a marine teleost fish well known for its beneficial effects on the reproductive system in traditional Chinese medicine books. Recently, several studies have been shown that the enzymatic hydrolysate of seahorse has multiple pharmacological activities. This study aimed to investigate the seahorse peptide hydrolysate (SH) ameliorative effects on the diabetic-induced male reproductive dysfunction in rat models. The in vivo studies were carried out with three different doses of SH (4, 8, and 20 mg/kg) and the diabetes condition was induced by administrating with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg) and fed a 40% high-fat diet. Seahorse hydrolysate (20 mg/kg) inhibited lipid peroxidation, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and restored seminiferous tubules morphology in testis. Moreover, it improved reproductive dysfunction by increasing the level of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, sperm count, and motility. According to these results, we suggested that SH exhibited amelioration effects on the reproductive dysfunction. [Display omitted] • Seahorse protein hydrolysate (SH) was hydrolyzed by alcalase. • SH enhanced enzymatic antioxidant activity. • SH reduced oxidative stress. • SH increased the FSH, LH, and testosterone levels. • SH improved seminiferous tubules morphology of the testis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The staphylococcal enterotoxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus are associated with pyrogenic response in humans and primates. This study investigates the role of NADPH oxidase and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) on enterotoxin staphylococcal enterotoxin C1 (SEC1)-induced pyrogenic cytokine production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The results indicate that the febrile response to the supernatant fluids of SEC1-stimulated PBMC in rabbits was in parallel with the levels of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 in the supernatants. The release of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6, nuclear translocation of NF-κB and its DNA binding activity in the SEC1-stimulated PBMC were time-dependent and were completely eliminated by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate or SN-50 (NF-κB inhibitors). The release of reactive oxygen species in the supernatants and translocation of the NADPH oxidase p47 phox subunit to the plasma membrane of SEC1-stimulated PBMC were time-dependent. Administration of apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitor) attenuated the febrile response to the supernatants in rabbits and decreased the translocation of NADPH oxidase p47 phox subunit and NF-κB activity in the SEC1-stimulated PBMC, and suppressed reactive oxygen species and pyrogenic cytokine production in the supernatants. Taken together, SEC1 may act through an NADPH oxidase mechanism to release reactive oxygen species, which activate NF-κB in PBMC to stimulate the synthesis of pyrogenic cytokines that trigger a fever response in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll/interleukin 1 receptor domain-containing adaptor protein (TIRAP) and toll/interleukin 1 receptor-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) are crucial adaptors of signal transduction for the signaling pathways of toll-like receptors (TLRs). TIRAP and TRIF perform an essential function in an antimicrobial immune response; however, their function in Nile tilapia remains unknown. Herein, TIRAP and TRIF from Nile tilapia were identified and functionally characterized. Phylogenetic analysis showed that OnTIRAP and OnTRIF clustered with corresponding homologs from other fish species, with comparable gene structures to those of select vertebrate TIRAP and TRIF genes, respectively. The expression profiles of OnTIRAP and OnTRIF were broadly distributed in the ten tissues investigated, with high transcript levels noticed in immune organs. The transcription levels of OnTIRAP and OnTRIF were upregulated in response to bacterial and poly (I:C) challenges. GFP signals were only detected in the cytoplasmic region of fish cells transfected with OnTIRAP-GFP and OnTRIF-GFP expression plasmids. Moreover, overexpression of OnTIRAP and OnTRIF activated interferon-β (IFN-β) and activator protein 1 (AP1) reporters in HEK 293 cells. Activation of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) reporter was only observed in OnTRIF-overexpressing HEK 293 cells. Furthermore, the results of the co-immunoprecipitation analysis showed that OnTRIF, but not OnTIRAP, was recruited as an adaptor protein by OnTLR25. This study provides the first evidence on the functions of OnTIRAP and OnTRIF in the immune system of Nile tilapia against pathogens and may serve as the basis for further investigations on TLR signaling in fish. • Nile tilapia TIRAP and TRIF orthologs were cloned. • OnTIRAP and OnTRIF increase significantly after bacterial and poly (I:C) injection. • OnTIRAP activates IFN-β, AP1, and fails to induce the NF-κB reporter in HEK 293 cells. • OnTRIF can activate the NF-κB, IFN-β, and AP1 reporters in HEK 293 cells. • OnTLR25 recruits OnTRIF as its adaptor protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]