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The problem of wastewater pollution in the production of monosodium glutamate (MSG) is becoming more and more serious. A novel type of chemically modified Salix psammophila powder charcoal (SPPCAM) was synthesized to address the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) in MSG wastewater. SPPCAM was prepared by carbonization method, in which inorganic ammonium molybdate (AM) was used as modifier and Salix psammophila powder (SPP) was used as raw material. Under optimal treatment conditions, maximum removal rates (removal capacities) of 45.9% (3313.2 mg·L−1) for COD and 29.4% (23.2 mg·L−1) for NH3-N in MSG wastewater were achieved. The treatment results significantly outperforming the unmodified Salix psammophila powder charcoal (SPPC), which only achieved removal rates (removal capacities) of 10.6% (763.9 mg·L−1) for COD and 12.9% (10 mg·L−1) for NH3-N. SPPC and SPPCAM before and after preparation were analysed by FT-IR and XRD, and Mo ions in the form of Mo2C within SPPCAM were successfully loaded. SEM, EDS-Mapping, BET, and other methods were used to analyse SPPCAM before and after MSG wastewater treatment, demonstrating that SPPCAM effectively treated organic pollutants in monosodium glutamate wastewater. The NH3-N in the treated MSG wastewater has reached the standard of safe discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overflow metabolism is a well-known phenomenon that describes the seemingly wasteful and incomplete substrate oxidation by aerobic cells, such as yeasts, bacteria, and mammalian cells, even when conditions allow for total combustion via respiration. This cellular response, triggered by an excess of C-source, has not yet been investigated in archaea. In this study, we conducted chemostat cultivations to compare the metabolic and physiological states of the thermoacidophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius under three conditions, each with gradually increasing nutrient stress. Our results show that S. acidocaldarius has different capacities for the uptake of the two C-sources, monosodium glutamate and glucose. A saturated tricarboxylic acid cycle at elevated nutrient concentrations affects the cell’s ability to deplete its intermediates. This includes deploying additional cataplerotic pathways and the secretion of amino acids, notably valine, glycine, and alanine, while glucose is increasingly metabolized via glycogenesis. We did not observe the secretion of common fermentation products, like organic acids. Transcriptomic analysis indicated an upregulation of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, suggesting the intracellular conservation of energy. Adapting respiratory enzymes under nutrient stress indicated high metabolic flexibility and robust regulatory mechanisms in this archaeon. This study enhances our fundamental understanding of the metabolism of S. acidocaldarius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Condiments (such as sodium chloride and glutamate sodium) cause consumers to ingest too much sodium and may lead to a variety of diseases, thus decreasing their quality of life. Recently, a salt reduction strategy using flavor peptides has been established. However, the development of this strategy has not been well adopted by the food industry. There is an acute need to screen for peptides with salty and umami taste, and to understand their taste characteristic and taste mechanism. This review provides a thorough analysis of the literature on flavor peptides with sodium-reducing ability, involving their preparation, taste characteristic, taste mechanism and applications in the food industry. Flavor peptides come from a wide range of sources and can be sourced abundantly from natural foods. Flavor peptides with salty and umami tastes are mainly composed of umami amino acids. Differences in amino acid sequences, spatial structures and food matrices will cause different tastes in flavor peptides, mostly attributed to the interaction between peptides and taste receptors. In addition to being used in condiments, flavor peptides have also anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant abilities, offering the potential to be used as functional ingredients, thus making their future in the food industry extremely promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor‐enhancing compound used to elevate the flavor profiles of various foods. This flavor enhancer is the sodium salt of L‐glutamic acid and is widely used in foods, such as flavorings, seasonings, sauces, and instant soups. The potential health effects of MSG consumption, particularly the health issues that excessive consumption could lead to, have been the focus of social concerns. It is stated that excessive consumption of MSG can cause cardiovascular diseases, obesity and diabetes, kidney damage, hypertension, anxiety, and memory impairment. The maximum permissible amount of MSG in foods is set at 10 g/kg according to the Turkish Food Codex. The aim of this study is to develop an appropriate method for analyzing the MSG content within the various food samples like flavorings, seasonings, and spices sold in Turkish local markets. The validation parameters of the developed method were examined and it was found that the developed method corresponds to the recommended values. The limit of detection and the limit of quantitation values were calculated as 4.78 ng/mL and 15.93 ng/mL, respectively. Recovery % was determined to be 100.96% in intra‐day and 132.22% in inter‐day analyses for the precision of the method. The results compared to the values specified in the Turkish Food Codex Food Additives Regulation and samples that purportedly did not contain MSG on their labels were found to contain MSG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper theoretically and experimentally demonstrates the possibility of detecting the five basic tastes (salt, sweet, sour, umami, and bitter) using a variety of higher-order acoustic waves propagating in piezoelectric plates. Aqueous solutions of sodium chloride (NaCl), glucose (C6H12O6), citric acid (C6H8O7), monosodium glutamate (C5H8NO4Na), and sagebrush were used as chemicals for the simulation of each taste. These liquids differed from each other in terms of their physical properties such as density, viscosity, electrical conductivity, and permittivity. As a total acoustic response to the simultaneous action of all liquid parameters on all acoustic modes in a given frequency range, a change in the propagation losses (ΔS12) of the specified wave compared with distilled water was used. Based on experimental measurements, the corresponding orientation histograms of the ΔS12 were plotted for different types of acoustic waves. It was found that these histograms for different substances are individual and differ in shape, area, and position of their extremes. Theoretically, it has been shown that the influence of different liquids on different acoustic modes is due to both the electrical and mechanical properties of the liquids themselves and the mechanical polarization of the corresponding modes. Despite the fact that the mechanical properties of the used liquids are close to each other, the attenuation of different modes in their presence is not only due to the difference in their electrical parameters. The proposed approach to creating a multi-parametric multimode acoustic electronic tongue and obtaining a set of histograms for typical liquids will allow for the development of devices for the operational analysis of food, medicines, gasoline, aircraft fuel, and other liquid substances without the need for detailed chemical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels have emerged as potential materials for bone grafting, thanks to their biocompatibility, biodegradation, and flexibility in filling irregular bone defects. In this study, we fabricated a novel NAH hydrogel system, composed of N,O‐carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC), aldehyde hyaluronic acid (AHA), and hydroxyapatite (HAp). To improve the mechanical strength of the fabricated hydrogel, a porous polycaprolactone (PCL) matrix was synthesized and used as a three‐dimensional (3D) support template for NAH hydrogel loading, forming a novel PCL/NAH hybrid scaffold. A mixture of monosodium glutamate (M) and sucrose (S) at varied weight ratios (5M:5S, 7M:3S, and 9M:1S) was used for the fabrication of 3D PCL matrices. The morphology, interconnectivity, and water resistance of the porous PCL scaffolds were investigated for optimal hydrogel loading efficiency. The results demonstrated that PCL scaffolds with porogen ratios of 7M:3S and 9M:1S possessed better interconnectivity than 5M:5S ratio. The compressive strength of the PCL/NAH hybrid scaffolds with 9M:1S (561.6 ± 6.1 kPa) and 7M:3S (623.8 ± 6.8 kPa) ratios are similar to cancellous bone and all hybrid scaffolds were biocompatible. Rabbit models with tibial defects were implanted with the PCL/NAH scaffolds to assess the wound healing capability. The results suggest that the PCL/NAH hybrid scaffolds, specifically those with porogen ratio of 7M:3S, exhibit promising bone healing effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rising worries of potential metal contamination in cooked noodles, this study aimed at unravelling, for the first time, the possible source of metal contamination in cooked noodles. Noodles cooked with full spices (CWFS), cooked with half spices (CWHS), cooked with quarter spices (CWQS), and cooked with no spices (CWNS: control) and their spices were analysed for metals using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry. The microbiological quality of the noodles was also evaluated. Metal concentrations in cooked noodles varied with spice quantity. Noodles CWFS had the highest significant (p < 0.05) concentration of Pb (0.36 ± 0.12 mg/kg), Ni (1.05 ± 0.01 mg/kg), Cd (0.07 ± 0.04 mg/kg), Co (0.02 ± 0.002 mg/kg), and Na (9.45 ± 0.04 mg/kg), compared to the control (CWNS). The mean Pb and Ni of spice and cooked noodles were above the WHO acceptable limits for food and could be harmful to consumers. Pearson's correlation and PCA showed that packed noodle spices introduced metals into the cooked noodles. Although the hazard indices (adults and children) in all noodle's groups were less than 1, children still had the potential to contract cancer from Ni exposure because the carcinogenic risk values of CWQS (2.87 × 10–4), CWHS (3.03 × 10–4), and CWFS (3.21 × 10–4) were greater than 10–4. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of potential pathogens that showed multidrug resistance and the ability to elaborate protease and amylase enzymes. Given the impending chronic health risks inherent in processed noodles, consistent consumption should be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing, and refractory immune-mediated skin disease with the etiology and pharmaceutical targets remaining unsatisfactorily addressed. Topical herbal-derived compounds, such as tryptanthrin (Tryp), have been considered as an alternative therapy for psoriasis due to their lower costs and fewer side effects compared to other therapies. However, the effectiveness of topically administered drugs is substantially limited by the thickened pathological skin barrier and the low bioavailability of drugs in the deeper layers of the lesion. Ethosomes, being a novel phospholipid-based vesicle system with high content of ethanol, have been implicated in enhancing topical drug absorption and restoring psoriatic lesions. In this study, taking advantages of ethosomes as a soft and malleable drug carrier, we constructed the Tryp-loaded ethosome (Tryp-ES) through a one-step microfluidics-based technique. The optimal formulation of Tryp-ES was achieved by adding amino-acid-derived surfactant sodium lauroyl glutamate, and Tryp-ES exhibited homogeneous particle size and favorable stability at room temperature. In vitro evaluations showed that Tryp of Tryp-ES could be easily internalized into cells and accumulated in cell nuclei, hence inhibited the abnormally proliferated keratinocytes by inducing apoptosis. In vivo and in vitro assessment using psoritic skin of mice revealed that Tryp-ES had preferred skin retention and permeation of loaded drugs within the initial 1 h of topical administration, which could be attributed to transient disintegrations of cell membranes by ethosomes, thus improved cellular fluidity and permeability. Notably, a synergistic effect of ethosomes and Tryp was found in psoriatic mice. Tryp-ES-treated mice showed substantially ameliorated symptoms of psoriasis and reduced pathological alterations due to hyperplasia, inflammation and angiogenesis, without detectable local or systemic toxicities. Interestingly, lipidomics analysis confirmed that the supplementation of phospholipids, as in the form of ethosome vehicles, was an alterantive strategy to relieve psoriatic pathologies. Taken together, this study provides a novel impact for ethosomal topical delivery of Tryp and underlines their potential as an effective therapy for the management of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the most common type of myocardial dysfunction, affecting mostly young adults, but its therapeutic diagnosis and biomarkers for prognosis are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the possible effect of the common food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG) and tannic acid (TA), a phenolic compound, on the key molecular actors responsible for DCM. DCM‐related publicly available microarray datasets (GSE120895, GSE17800, and GSE19303) were downloaded from the comprehensive Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). By integrating DEGs and gene‐disease validity curation results, overlapping genes were screened and identified as hub genes. Protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network and ontology analysis were performed to make sense of the identified biological data. Finally, mRNA expression changes of identified hub genes in the heart tissues of rats treated with MSG and TA were measured by the qPCR method. Six upregulated (IGF1, TTN, ACTB, LMNA, EDN1, and NPPB) DEGs were identified between the DCM and healthy control samples as the hub genes. qPCR results revealed that the mRNA levels of these genes involved in DCM development increased significantly in rat heart tissues exposed to MSG. In contrast, this increase was remarkably alleviated by TA treatment. Our results provide new insights into critical molecular mechanisms that should be focused on in future DCM studies. Moreover, MSG may play a critical role in DCM formation, and TA may be used as a promising therapeutic agent in DCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, umami peptides were screened and characterized from bovine bone soups manufactured via atmospheric and high-pressure boiling. Peptide fractions with molecular weights less than 3 kDa were selected for peptide sequencing using LC-MS/MS, the toxicity prediction of the umami peptides was carried out by using an website, and the peptides were screened according to the binding energy, i.e., three peptides including YDAELS, TDVAHR, and ELELQ were selected. The three umami peptides were further synthesized, and their umami thresholds were determined through sensory evaluation and electronic tongue analysis, ranging from 0.375 to 0.75 mg/mL. All three peptides exhibited a significant synergistic taste enhancement effect when combined with MSG (monosodium glutamate) solution. The molecular docking of the umami peptides with the T1R1/T1R3 receptor revealed the mechanism of umami presentation, and the main interaction forces between the three umami peptides and the receptor were hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and hydrophobic interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used food additive with conflicting evidence regarding its potential effects on human health, with proposed relevance for obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) or chronic kidney disease. As being able to accurately quantify the MSG dietary intake would help clarify the open issues, we constructed a predictive formula to estimate the daily intake of MSG in a rat model based on the urinary metabolic profile. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into groups receiving different daily amounts of MSG in drinking water (0.5, 1.5, and 3.0 g%), no MSG, and MSG withdrawal after 3.0% MSG treatment for 4 weeks. We then analyzed 24-hour urine samples for chemistries and metabolites using 1H NMR spectrometry and observed a strong correlation between urine pH, sodium, bicarbonate, alpha-ketoglutarate, citrate, fumarate, glutamate, methylamine, N-methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide, succinate, and taurine and the daily MSG intake. Following the multiple linear regression analysis a simple formula model based on urinary Na+, citrate, and glutamate was most accurate and could be validated for estimating daily MSG intake. In conclusion, we propose that the daily MSG intake correlates with urinary metabolites in a rat model and that this new tool for monitoring the impact of MSG on health measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Male infertility is a significant global issue affecting men's health, characterized by dysfunction or suboptimal performance of components of the male reproductive system. Types of nutrition can affect positively or negatively on fertility and this effect depends on the quality and quantity of food intake. The present systematic review was conducted with aim to investigate the effects of monosodium glutamate consumption on sperm quantity, concentration, morphology, and motility in male rats. Methods: In this systematic review, search was conducted on English and Persian databases of Medline, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, Magiran, SID, ISC, and Cochrane from January 2010 to May 2023 with the keywords related to male infertility, monosodium glutamate, male rats, sperm count, live sperm, sperm morphology, and sperm motility. Results: Fourteen studies were included in this systematic review. The findings indicated that monosodium glutamate consumption was associated with decreased sperm count, live sperm percentage, and alterations in sperm morphology in male rats. Most studies reported a decrease in sperm motility with monosodium glutamate intake, although some studies observed an increase in sperm motility. Conclusion: Increased consumption of monosodium glutamate is linked to reductions in sperm quantity, concentration, and motility in male rats, potentially contributing to elevated infertility rates. Therefore, prolonged and high-dose consumption of monosodium glutamate may significantly impact sperm characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish crackers (keropok lekor) are known for their tastiness. Although rich in protein and iodine, it contains a high amount of salt or sodium. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the manufacturers' practice in the preparation of keropok lekor, perception and challenges concerning salt usage, and motivation to reduce salt content. This study also aimed to estimate the sodium content in keropok lekor. Seven manufacturers of keropok lekor in Terengganu were interviewed either face-to-face or online to obtain relevant information. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed based on a thematic analysis framework. The recipes of keropok lekor were analyzed using the Nutritionist Pro software to determine the nutritional and sodium content, calculated based on the Malaysian and ASEAN Food Composition Tables. Based on the interviews, most manufacturers (90%) supported the effort to reduce salt in keropok lekor. However, the effort was met with several challenges, such as customer acceptance and negative perception of the taste, decreased sales, and increased material costs. The enabling factors include maintaining the original flavor of keropok lekor, customer requests, marketing opportunities, and the availability of salt substitutes. Support for marketing and financial technology know-how is also necessary. An estimate of 606.43 mg/100g of sodium content in keropok lekor was obtained in this study, which was mainly derived from the usage of sodium chloride and monosodium glutamate (MSG) during the preparation. This study revealed the high salt content in keropok lekor due to the addition of salt and seasonings. There is a potential to reduce salt content in keropok lekor with appropriate support provided to the manufacturers. Nevertheless, further research is needed to produce keropok lekor with reduced salt content, improved sensory, and enhanced microbial and physicochemical characteristics, which can improve customer perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional vinegar with high γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) content was manufactured through a two-stage serial co-fermentation of rice wine lees, a by-product of Korean rice wine, using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and acetic acid bacteria (AAB). The first LAB fermentation elevated GABA content by utilizing monosodium glutamate (MSG) as a precursor. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KS2020 converted up to 10% of MSG into GABA and indicated a GABA content of 65.49 mg/g. The concentration of LAB-fermented rice wine lees was then optimized for the second co-fermentation, and Acetobacter aceti was used to produce vinegar. Co-fermentation using 40% first LAB-fermented rice wine lees yielded vinegar with 55.34 mg/g acetic acid and 22.61 mg/g GABA. The temperature-dependent reduction in GABA in GABA-enriched vinegar followed the Arrhenius relationship during storage, with an activation energy of 9.94 kcal/mol (20–35 °C, R2 = 0.99). The GABA present in the vinegar showed evidence of a temperature-/time-dependent decrease, decreasing by 40% over five months. This study first proved the higher GABA-enriched vinegar production from rice wine lees using Lb. plantarum KS2020 and A. aceti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a green and safe amino acid surfactant, sodium lauryl glutamate (SLG) has been favored by researchers. However, SLG has low solubility and its single system is not conducive to its application. Zwitterionic surfactants can increase its solubility by forming mixed micelles and possibly new phase states. In this paper, SLG was combined with lauramide propyl hydroxysulfobetaine (LHSB), and its different states were characterized. The type of phase states were determined and the pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were drawn. It was found that when the concentration of SLG was low and the proportion of SLG was not high, there were a large number of globular micelles in the solution, and rod-like micelles would appear as the concentration increased. As the concentration further increased, the SLG/LHSB system exhibited the characteristic of worm like micelles. With the further increase of concentration, the liquid crystal structures of hexagonal and layered phases were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consumption of ultra‐processed foods [UPFs] may be associated with negative health outcomes. Limited data exist regarding the potential role of UPFs in the occurrence of allergic diseases. The underlying mechanisms underpinning any such associations are also poorly elucidated. Methods: We performed a systematic review and narrative evidence synthesis of the available literature to assess associations between UPF consumption and pediatric allergy outcomes (n = 26 papers), including data on the association seen with the gut microbiome (n = 16 papers) or immune system (n = 3 papers) structure and function following PRISMA guidelines. Results: Dietary exposure to fructose, carbonated soft drinks, and sugar intake was associated with an increased risk of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies in children. Commercial baby food intake was associated with childhood food allergy. Childhood intake of fructose, fruit juices, sugar‐sweetened beverages, high carbohydrate UPFs, monosodium glutamate, UPFs, and advanced glycated end‐products (AGEs) was associated with the occurrence of allergic diseases. Exposure to UPFs and common ingredients in UPFs seem to be associated with increased occurrence of allergic diseases such as asthma, wheezing, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, in many, but not all studies. Conclusion: More preclinical and clinical studies are required to better define the link between UPF consumption and the risk of allergies and asthma. These observational studies ideally require supporting data with clearly defined UPF consumption, validated dietary measures, and mechanistic assessments to definitively link UPFs with the risk of allergies and asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) manifests as poor attention, hyperactivity, as well as impulsive behaviors. Hesperetin (HSP) is a citrus flavanone with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study aimed to test hesperetin efficacy in alleviating experimental ADHD in mice and its influence on hippocampal neuron integrity and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) signaling. An in silico study was performed to test the related proteins. Groups of mice were assigned as control, ADHD model, ADHD/HSP (25 mg/kg), and ADHD/HSP (50 mg/kg). ADHD was induced by feeding with monosodium glutamate (0.4 g/kg, for 8 weeks) and assessed by measuring the motor and attentive behaviors (open filed test, Y-maze test, and marble burying test), histopathological examination of the whole brain tissues, and estimation of inflammatory markers. The in-silico results indicated the putative effects of hesperetin on ADHD by allowing the integration and analysis of large-scale genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data. The in vivo results showed that ADHD model mice displayed motor hyperactivity and poor attention in the behavioral tasks and shrank neurons at various hippocampal regions. Further, there was a decline in the mRNA expression and protein levels for SIRT1, the erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), kelch like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1) and hemeoxygenase-1 (OH-1) proteins. Treatment with HSP normalized the motor and attentive behaviors, prevented hippocampal neuron shrinkage, and upregulated SIRT1/Nrf2/Keap1/OH-1 proteins. Taken together, HSP mainly acts by its antioxidant potential. However, therapeutic interventions with hesperetin or a hesperetin-rich diet can be suggested as a complementary treatment in ADHD patients but cannot be suggested as an ADHD treatment per se as it is a heterogeneous and complex disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive studies on γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) over decades highlight its significant physiological and pharmacological effects on humans. GABA produced using microbe is favoured compared to enzymatic and chemical methods due to operational ease and reduced harmful pollutant formation. This study focused on increasing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) biosynthesis from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum B7, employing a multi-step optimisation strategy. An unoptimised cultivation approach yielded a maximum GABA of 11.68 ± 0.04 g/L and viable cell count of 10.47 ± 0.01 log CFU/mL at 48 h. A nutrient-rich medium was developed through single-parameter optimisation, comprising 1%, 2.5% and 0.0002% of glucose, yeast extract and each trace element (CaCO3, KI, and Tween 80) respectively. Temperature, pH, incubation period, initial concentration of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) demonstrated significant contributions towards GABA production and cell growth as determined using a two-level factorial design. Steepest ascent identified optimal conditions (36°C, pH 5.5, 370 mM MSG, and 0.7 mM PLP), resulting in 30.50 g/L GABA and 11.51 log CFU/mL at 60 h. Further refinement via a central composite experiment yielded optimal conditions (temperature-35.6°C, pH-5.66, initial MSG concentration-335.61 mM, PLP concentration-0.723 mM) with improved GABA production (32.18 g/L) and cell growth (11.52 log CFU/mL) over 63.66 h. Therefore, this approach utilising lactic acid bacteria capable of GABA synthesis holds promise for mass-produced, enhanced-functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the morphological and morphometric features of structural changes in the components of the exocrine part of the pancreas of male rats after withdrawal of the food additive sodium glutamate and their transfer to a normal diet. Materials and methods. 4 series of experiments were conducted. The 1st series – male rats were given 70 mg/kg of sodium glutamate daily for 8 weeks to enhance their taste; the 2nd series – rats were transferred to a standard diet 8 weeks after the use of monosodium glutamate and withdrawn from the experiment after 8 weeks (at week 16); the 3rd series – control group rats up to 8 weeks, the 4th series – control rats up to 16 weeks of the experiment. The pancreas was examined morphologically with morphometric analysis after the rats were withdrawn from the experiment, the material was paraffin-embedded and sections were made, stained with hematoxylin and eosin and azan. Results. In the 1st and 2nd series of the experiment, atrophic and degenerative changes of the acini were preserved, which were discomposed due to edema of the organ, and had small sizes. Connective tissue and areas of adipose tissue, diffuse and focal infiltrates were visualized between the lobules and around the lobular ducts. The ducts were dilated. As in the 1st series, there was edema of the organ parenchyma, vessel walls and ducts with fluid leakage into the intercalated spaces, and exocrinocyte apoptosis. The morphometric study of the exocrine part of the pancreas revealed that the average size of acini was statistically significantly reduced in the 1st and 2nd experimental series by 1.4 and 1.6 times, and the area by 1.2 and 1.5 times compared to control animals of the 3rd and 4th series. In the 1st and 2nd series, acini ranging in size from 71 μm to 90 μm prevailed, accounting for 38 % and 34 %, respectively, in the 1st and 2nd control series – 91–100 μm (46 % and 42 %) and from 111 μm to 149 μm (36 % and 38 %), respectively. In the study of the number of cells in acini in the 1st series, exocrinocytes were present in the amount of 5.52 ± 0.58 vs. control 8.05 ± 0.32 (p < 0.001), in the 2nd series – 5.24 ± 0.47 vs. control 7.33 ± 0.43 (p < 0.001) The area of exocrinocytes in the 2nd series 61.95 ± 1.91 μm2 vs. 78.99 ± 0.98 μm2 (p < 0.05) were reduced. The diameter of the insertional, intra-lobular and inter-lobular ducts was enlarged. Conclusions. After 8 weeks of feeding rats with monosodium glutamate and after its withdrawal and transfer of rats to the standard diet of the rat vivarium in the next 8 weeks, no improvement in the state of the pancreas was recorded, which was confirmed by morphological and morphometric studies.

Background: This study examined administration of MSG intraperitoneally to white rats resulted in a decrease in testicular weight, an increase in lipid peroxidase levels The testes, as the site of spermatogenesis, are highly vulnerable to oxidation processes caused by free radicals, which can disrupt spermatogenesis. Free radicals can be countered by antioxidants. One plant believed to have antioxidant activity is red ginger. Purpose: To determine the effect of red ginger against histopathology seminiferous tubules of white rat (Rattus norvegicus) exposed by monosodium glutamate. Methods: This study used 30 rats which were divided into 5 groups. The positve control group (K+) were given only monosodium glutamate 5g/kgBW and CMC Na orally, the treatments groups P1 were given monosodium glutamte 5g/KgBW + red ginger 50mg/rat/day, P2 were given 5g/KgBW + red ginger 100mg/rat/day, and P3 were given 5g/KgBW + red ginger 200mg/rat/day. All treatments were administered for 42 days. After 42 days of treatments, all rats were sacrificed and seminiferous tubules were observed with microscope from pathology laboratory. Results: Administration of red ginger extract can defend seminiferous tubules epithelial thicknes and diameter from exposure of monosodium glutamate with 100mg/KgBW dosage as the most effective dosage. Seminiferous tubules epitelial thickness and diameter were tested using one-way ANOVA and Duncan’s multiple range test. Conclusion: Red Ginger Extract (Zingiber officinale var rubrum) has shown potential effects to counteract Monosodium Glutamat consequences on The Thickness of the epitelial and diameter of seminiferous tubules of white rat (Rattus norvegicus).

AbstractIn this paper, an excellent foaming formula for natural gas well deliquification was developed, which was based on the synthesized dodecyl ethylethanolamine (DEEA), commercially obtained cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and sodium lauryl glutamate (SLG). The foaming properties and liquid unloading properties were studied, which showed that the optimal molar ratio of DEEA/CAPB/SLG ternary complex turned out to be 14:21:15. At a total concentration of 15 mM in the liquid phase, the optimal DEEA/CAPB/SLG mixture exhibited excellent foaming and liquid unloading capability at various conditions of methanol, condensate oil and salts contents and temperatures. At the methanol content of 45%, the foaming efficiency and liquid unloading efficiency of the DEEA/CAPB/SLG mixture were measured to be 100% and 25.5 ± 2.2%, respectively. When the condensate oil content was 10–30%, the liquid unloading efficiency ranged from 18.0 ± 2.1% to 25.0 ± 2.5%, which was much higher than that (8.3 ± 0.9%) obtained without condensate. The presence of salts retarded the performance of the DEEA/CAPB/SLG mixture, however, the addition of a chelating agent, trisodium nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), to DEEA/CAPB/SLG could enhance the foaming efficiency and unloading performance at a salinity level of up to 41 × 104 mg/L, which might be the highest salt-resistant level of the gas well foaming mixture. The introduction of 10% methanol exhibited a positive effect on the DEEA/CAPB/SLG mixture’s foaming and liquid unloading performance against temperature (up to 90 °C). At 90 °C, the DEEA/CAPB/SLG foam could remove almost all the liquid from the column. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to unfavourable market conditions, the sugar industry is looking to diversify its product portfolio by producing economically feasible and environmentally sustainable products in addition to crystalline sugar. The production of monosodium glutamate (MSG) from sugar is a well‐established commercial process, and a new local production facility could be a potential low‐risk diversification option for the South African sugar industry. While the consumption of MSG has been a controversial topic due to possible negative health effects, the global market, especially in developing and sugar‐producing countries such as China, Indonesia, and Vietnam is growing at a cumulative annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2%. In this study, the economic feasibility and environmental sustainability performance of the production of monosodium glutamate (MSG) from A‐molasses in a biorefinery annexed to a typical sugar mill are assessed. Five different process scenarios were investigated, including three indirect (two‐pot) processing routes through glutamic acid fermentation and two one‐pot conversion scenarios. The indirect scenarios include the conventional route with fertiliser as a byproduct; second, the conventional route with fertiliser and animal feed as byproducts; and third, a state‐of‐the‐art membrane‐assisted nanofiltration method with animal feed and fertiliser as byproducts. The one‐pot scenarios include syrup being sold as a byproduct or syrup being recycled back to the fermenter. The three indirect process scenarios resulted in the highest minimum selling price (MSP) of approximately 1.8 US$/kg and the highest greenhouse gas (GHG) emission potential of around 0.64 kgCO2/kgMSG. Development of a more direct (one‐pot) conversion process can reduce the MSP to 1.6 US$/kg, which is close to the current market price and reduce the GHG emissions to 0.55 kgCO2/kgMSG, if the fermentation microbe can convert sugars to glutamate efficiently in the presence of high sodium ion concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as a common food additive in some foods. However, based on our search and knowledge, no comprehensive study discussed the effect of MSG on the human gut microbiome. In this study, the effects of MSG on the gut microbiome, liver, and kidney were performed. Data were collected from databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect using the search strategy and keywords. Finally, 14 eligible studies were selected for systematic review. This study provides a new perspective on the effects of MSG on the gut flora, shedding light on the potential relationship between MSG intake and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analytical approaches that adhere to the principles of white and green chemistry are necessary to address concerns related to the environment, economy, and practicality. An analytical quality by design (AQbD)-aided ecofriendly reversed-phase thin-layer chromatography (RP-TLC) approach was utilized to quantify the flavor enhancer monosodium glutamate (E-621) in various food samples, followed by ultrasound-assisted extraction. RP-TLC layers precoated with RP-18 modified silica gel 60 F254s were utilized as the stationary phase with green mobile phases consisting of ethanol‒water‒isopropanol (5:2.5:2.5, V/V), with densitometric detection at 570 nm with an RF value of 0.57. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) shows linearity in 500–1500 ng/spot range. RP-TLC separation was optimized, and the most influential and interacting parameters were identified using central composite design. Validation study was performed as per the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) recommendations, which demonstrates all the parameters are within acceptable limits. MSG shows recovery of 93.12–101.42% among various food samples. The greenness of the created method was evaluated using the green analytical procedure index (GAPI) and analytical greenness (AGREE). We utilized the blue applicability grade index (BAGI) and red–green–blue 12 (RGB12) algorithms to evaluate the concepts of blueness and whiteness. The BAGI score 80 suggested a high level of application, while the RGB12 score 85.1 proved that the approach is both cost effective and sustainable. This revolutionary RP-TLC method provides a fast and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional procedures used to analyze MSG in foods, which might help pharmaceutical industries to adopt and improve robust, environmentally friendly AQbD techniques for routine MSG assay using green solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High consumption of locally produced delicacies could expose nursing mothers to high monosodium glutamate (MSG) levels, frequently used as a necessary condiment in low-income countries. Thus, this study evaluated some novel preliminary changes in renal hormonal receptors, the aquaporin-3 channel, oxidative stress markers, and hematological indices induced by monosodium glutamate in lactating rats. Post-parturition, twenty-four (24) lactating Wistar rats were divided into four (4) groups of six rats each (n = 6). Oral administration of distilled water and MSG started three (3) days postpartum as follows: group 1: distilled water (1 ml/kg BW), group 2: MSG (925 mg/kg BW), group 3: MSG (1850 mg/kg BW), and group 4: MSG (3700 mg/kg BW). At the end of the experiment, which lasted fourteen (14) days, animals were sacrificed and samples of blood and tissues were obtained for biochemical analysis. MSG administration significantly (p < 0.05) increased ROS and MDA, with a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in kidney antioxidants. Serum creatinine, total, conjugated, and unconjugated bilirubin significantly (p < 0.05) increased with MSG administration. The prolactin receptor was significantly reduced (p < 0.05), while the oxytocin receptor and aquaporin-3 channel were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the MSG-administered groups. There were significant (p < 0.05) changes in the hematological indices of the MSG-administered animals. Thus, the findings of this study suggest that high MSG consumption causes hematological alterations and may alter renal function via increased ROS production and dysregulation of the AQP-3 channel, prolactin, and oxytocin receptors in the kidneys of lactating Wistar rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a sodium salt derived from glutamic acid, is widely used in commercial food products to improve taste, quality, and preservation. However, its consumption may have detrimental effects on male reproductive function. Nevertheless, plant extracts, such as Lepidium meyenii (Maca), Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek), Spirulina platensis (Spirulina), and Tribulus arabica (Tribulus), may ameliorate these adverse effects. To this effect, the phytochemical properties of Lepidium meyenii, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Spirulina platensis, and Tribulus arabica were assessed, and their potential impact on MSG-induced impairment of reproductive parameters was examined. The phytochemical composition (steroids, terpenes, phenols, flavonoids) of the plants was profiled through spectrophotometry and the antioxidant activity was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into six groups at random: a control group receiving distilled water, and five experimental groups (MSG, Maca, Fenugreek, Spirulina, and Tribulus) receiving 900 mg/kg/day of MSG dissolved in water for 45 days. Subsequently, the animals in the experimental groups were administered 500 mg/kg/day of the respective plant extract via oral gavage for an additional 35 days, while the MSG group continued to receive water only. Following the treatment period, the animals were sacrificed, and their reproductive tract organs were collected, weighed, and subjected to further analysis. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of diverse bioactive elements in the plant extracts, including phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Exposure to MSG negatively impacted total and progressive sperm motility, which was ameliorated by Lepidium meyenii treatment. Sperm morphology showed no significant differences among groups. Treatment of the phytochemical agents diminished histomorphometric alternations of the testicular length, germinal epithelium height, and number of cells in seminiferous tubules, which were caused by the initial administration of MSG. Testosterone and LH levels were reduced in the MSG group but improved in extract-treated groups. The study suggests Lepidium meyenii as a potential remedy for reproductive dysfunction. However, further investigation into its mechanisms and human safety and efficacy is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cramp–fasciculation syndrome (CFS) is a rare and benign neuromuscular disorder that may initially masquerade as motor neuron disease/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. While CFS may have a familial disposition, we report on cases associated with high consumption of popular food items. One set of patients reversibly experienced acute onset of headache, flushing, muscle stiffness and fasciculations following the consumption of umami-flavored food containing a large concentration of monosodium glutamate. A second group of patients consuming food derived from lupin seed developed acute cholinergic toxicity, CFS, and, with chronic intake, significant, self-limiting, but incompletely reversible upper and lower motor neuron deficits. While these cases may improve our knowledge about the possible causes of CFS, our series also demonstrates that excessive consumption of some popular foods is not harmless. This warrants further research on their safety at all stages of human development from a neurological point of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keropok lekor is a fish-based snack and traditional food originating from the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, especially in Terengganu. This study was conducted to identify the ingredients and packaging used in the manufacturing of keropok lekor by entrepreneurs in Selangor. This study is a qualitative study that requires in-depth interviews. The Nutritionist Pro application was used to determine the nutrients in keropok lekor. The sampling method for this study is purposive sampling and involves five keropok lekor operators around Selangor. The ingredients used in making keropok lekor are salt, fish filling (fringescale sardine), baking powder, monosodium glutamate (MSG), margarine, and sweet potato flour. Through this study, it was found that the main source of sodium in keropok lekor is salt. For keropok lekor packaging, all keropok lekor operators use the same packaging method, which is vacuum packaging. In addition, the majority of keropok lekor operators (80%) have been introduced to Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). The results of the study show that the average sodium content in keropok lekor is 372.11mg/100g and is categorized as medium-level sodium. Although the majority of keropok lekor operators have been introduced to MAP packaging, further research needs to be conducted to find out whether keropok lekor operators have renewed their packaging methods or vice versa. In conclusion, based on the findings, the content of sodium in the manufacturing of keropok lekor in Selangor is still under control. The results of this study can be used to help the government monitor the sodium content found in keropok lekor around Selangor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxide copper minerals are commonly extracted via acidic leaching, using acids such as H2SO4, HCl, or HNO3. These strong acids are the most widely used because of their high dissolution kinetics. However, their main concern is the high acid consumption because copper oxide deposits contain large amounts of acid-consuming gangue. This paper proposes using an alternative aqueous alkaline monosodium glutamate (MSG) system to leach copper oxide minerals. Tenorite (CuO) was used as the copper oxide mineral under study. The influence of process variables (such as temperature and glutamate concentration) and kinetics of this system on copper leaching from tenorite were studied. The results showed that temperature has a significant effect on copper dissolution rates. Increased temperature from 15 °C to 60 °C enhanced the copper extraction from 9.1% to 97.7% after 2 h. Leaching kinetics were analyzed using the shrinking core model (SCM) under various conditions, indicating that the leaching rate presented a mixed control. This method, however, fails to describe leaching for broad particle sizes due to its requirement for single-sized solid grains. This study demonstrated that a large particle size distribution in tenorite supported a successful extension of the SCM for leaching it from mixed glutamate solutions. The activation energy for the 15–60 °C temperature range was calculated to be 102.6 kJ/mol for the chemical control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventy-five adult Wistar Albino rats were used in this experiment to detect the effect of MSG on fetus morphology, and pregnant rats’ behavioral, biochemecal, and neurological parameters. They were accommodated under basic laboratory conditions in plastic cages in a quiet environment with free access to food and water. They were erratically allocated into 4 groups of three replicates for each. Group (1) control, received normal saline. Groups (2,3, and 4) received daily MSG orally at a dose of 1, 3 and 6 mg/kg respectively for a period of 20 days. There was a reduction in the mean number of fetuses /dam, an altered distribution of implantation, reduction in fetuses’ weight & length, besides some fetuses revealed morphological anomalies and skeletal defects at the 19th day of gestation. Moreover, there was a decrease in the number of entrance and spontaneous alternations, increase in line crossing and rearing behaviors, elevation in serum ALT, AlP and creatinine, decrease in serum progesterone, increase in dopamine and glutamate levels (ng/mL) in brain tissues of MSG treated pregnant rats. So that, this study suggests that to diminish MSG in foods during pregnancy to to stay away from harmful influences on pregnant females behavior, brain tissue, and safe fetuses from deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Levilactobacillus brevis CRL 2013, a plant-derived lactic acid bacterium (LAB) with immunomodulatory properties, has emerged as an efficient producer of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Notably, not all LAB possess the ability to produce GABA, highlighting the importance of specific genetic and environmental conditions for GABA synthesis. This study aimed to elucidate the intriguing GABA-producing machinery of L. brevis CRL 2013 and support its potential for safe application through comprehensive genome analysis. Methods: A comprehensive genome analysis of L. brevis CRL 2013 was performed to identify the presence of antibiotic resistance genes, virulence markers, and genes associated with the glutamate decarboxylase system, which is essential for GABA biosynthesis. Then, an optimized chemically defined culture medium (CDM) was supplemented with monosodium glutamate (MSG) and yeast extract (YE) to analyze their influence on GABA production. Proteomic and transcriptional analyses were conducted to assess changes in protein and gene expression related to GABA production. Results: The absence of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence markers in the genome of L. brevis CRL 2013 supports its safety for potential probiotic applications. Genes encoding the glutamate decarboxylase system, including two gad genes (gadA and gadB) and the glutamate antiporter gene (gadC), were identified. The gadB gene is located adjacent to gadC, while gadA resides separately on the chromosome. The transcriptional regulator gadR was found upstream of gadC, with transcriptional analyses demonstrating cotranscription of gadR with gadC. Although MSG supplementation alone did not activate GABA synthesis, the addition of YE significantly enhanced GABA production in the optimized CDM containing glutamate. Proteomic analysis revealed minimal differences between MSG-supplemented and non-supplemented CDM cultures, whereas YE supplementation resulted in significant proteomic changes, including upregulation of GadB. Transcriptional analysis confirmed increased expression of gadB and gadR upon YE supplementation, supporting its role in activating GABA production. Conclusion: These findings provide valuable insights into the influence of nutrient composition on GABA production. Furthermore, they unveil the potential of L. brevis CRL 2013 as a safe, nonpathogenic strain with valuable biotechnological traits which can be further leveraged for its probiotic potential in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study sought to analyze the possible changes that might be caused by MSG and soybean on the secretion of both the male and female reproductive hormones in wistar rats. Two hundred and ten wistar rats (105 female and 105 male rats) were used for this study. The 105 female rats were equally divided into three groups representing the various experimental durations of 2, 4, and 6 months. Each of these groups consisting of 35 rats were further divided equally into 7 subgroups each containing 5 rats. 3 out of the 7 subgroups were orally administered MSG, another 3 out of the 7 subgroups were orally administered soybean according to the established LD50 as follows: 1000 mg/kg b.w (low dose, LD), 2000 mg/kg b.w (medium dose, MD), 3000 mg/kg b.w (High dose, HD) daily, while the 7th group served as the control group and was given only water and normal rat chow. The 105 male rats were also grouped in same manner and orally administered the MSG and soybean. The levels of LH, FSH, progesterone (PRG), oestrogen (E2) and testosterone were analyzed by ELISA technique. Long period administration of MSG significantly (p<0.05) decreased the levels of LH, PRG, E2 and FSH in the female rats when compared with the control group. Consumption of soybean for a long period of time significantly (p<0.05) decreased the level of E2 and FSH in the female rats, while short period administration significantly (p<0.05) increased the PRG level and long period administration significantly (p<0.05) decreased the PRG level in comparison with the control. Long and short period consumption of MSG as well as soybean significantly (p<0.05) decreased the levels of testosterone and LH in the male rats, while only long period administration of both significantly (p<0.05) decreased the level of FSH in the male rats when compared with the control group. The consumption of both small and large amounts of MSG and soybean elicit reproductive hormonal imbalance irrespective of the gender through the alteration of the levels of FSH, LH, E2, testesterone and PRG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: At present, it is particularly important to reduce costs and improve economic efficiency in farm production. However, in intensive production, the situation of insufficient milk production in sows and the poor growth of piglets has become increasingly serious. In this context, how to increase sow milk production and improve piglet growth is the primary goal of researchers. Some studies have shown that feeding MSG to sows can enhance the growth of newborn pigs, but some researchers suspect that the addition of MSG is not safe for sows. Therefore, this experiment aims to study the impact of MSG on sows and piglets. Our research results prove that MSG is safe and effective, can reduce costs, improve economic benefits, and is suitable for intensive production. In most current farm operations, lactating sows need to overcome reproductive and environmental stresses that have resulted in poor sow production performance and piglet growth. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of in-feed supplementation of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in sows during late gestation lactation in regard to litter performance. The study subjects were 12 multi-parity sows (Landrace × Large White), farrowing sows with an average parity of four (three with three parities, seven with four parities, and two with five parities). They were randomly divided into the following two diet groups: the basal diet as a control (CON) group based on corn and soybean meal; and the basal diet + 2% MSG group. The experimental time ranged from 109 days before delivery to 21 days after delivery. There were six sows in each group, and each sow served as the experimental unit. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in body weight (BW), back fat (BF) thickness and estrus interval between sows supplemented with 2% MSG in their diets before and after farrowing and during weaning (p > 0.05). However, MSG-treated sows tended to increase BW loss at farrowing more than the CON group (p = 0.093) but lost less weight during lactation than the CON group (p = 0.019). There were no significant differences in the body condition scores (BCSs) and BF loss of the two groups of sows before and after farrowing and at weaning (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the weight of newborn piglets between the two groups of sows (p > 0.05). The weaning weight (p = 0.020) and average daily gain (ADG) (p = 0.045) of suckling piglets were higher in the MSG treated group compared to the CON group. The daily milk production of sows in the MSG treatment group was higher compared to the CON group (p = 0.045). The protein concentration of milk at week 3 (p = 0.060) and fat concentration of milk at week 5 (p = 0.095) of the MSG-supplemented sows tended to increase more than the CON group. In summary, the dietary inclusion of MSG supplementation had a beneficial effect on the late gestating sows and their piglet's growth and milk production. Our research has shown that the addition of 2% MSG in late gestation and lactation diet would be beneficial for both sow and piglet production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, occurring mostly in individuals with chronic liver disease, but biomarkers for therapeutic diagnosis and prognosis are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the possible effect of the common food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG) and tannic acid (TA), a phenolic compound, on the key molecular actors responsible for HCC development. Methods: Eight HCC‐related public microarray datasets (GSE84005, GSE14520, GSE25097, GSE57958, GSE22058, GSE84402, GSE54238, and GSE36376) were extracted from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database and analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). To make sense of the identified biological data and to identify hub genes, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and enrichment analysis were performed. The mRNA expression profiles of the identified hub genes, expression changes in different stages of HCC, and their prognostic significances in HCC were determined using GEPIA, UALCAN, and Kaplan–Meier Plotter databases, respectively. Finally, mRNA expression changes of identified hub genes in the liver tissues of rats treated with MSG and TA were measured by the quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) method. Results: Two up‐regulated (AURKA and CCNB2) and two down‐regulated (F9 and CYP2E1) genes were identified between the HCC tumor and adjacent non‐tumor liver tissue samples. qPCR results showed that the mRNA expression of up‐regulated DEGs involved in HCC development increased significantly in rat liver tissues exposed to MSG, while this increase was remarkably suppressed by TA treatment. It was observed that the mRNA expressions of down‐regulated DEGs involved in HCC development decreased markedly in the presence of MSG, while this decrease was alleviated with TA. Conclusion: Our results provide new insights into pivotal molecular candidates that should be focused on in future in vivo and in vitro HCC research. Moreover, MSG may play a crucial role in HCC development and progression and TA may be used as a favorable restorative agent in HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive compound found in Nigella sativa seeds, possesses diverse therapeutic properties for skin conditions. However, formulating TQ presents challenges due to its hydrophobic nature and chemical instability, which hinder its skin penetration. Transethosomes, as a formulation, offer an environment conducive to enhancing TQ's solubility, stability, and skin permeation. To optimize TQ transethosomal formulations, we introduced a combination of ionic and nonionic surfactants, namely Tween 20 and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium lauroyl glutamate (SLG). Surfactants play a crucial role in stabilizing the formulation, reducing aggregation, improving biocompatibility, and minimizing potential toxicity. We fine-tuned the formulation composition and gained insights into its interfacial behavior using the Langmuir monolayer technique. This method elucidated the interfacial properties and behavior of phospholipids in ethosome and transethosome formulations. Our findings suggest that monolayer studies can serve as the initial step in selecting surfactants for nanocarrier formulations based on their interfacial dilational rheology studies. It was found that the addition of surfactant to the formulation increased the elasticity considering the capability of transethosomes to significantly decrease their radius when permeating the skin barrier. The results of the dilational rheology experiments were most relevant to drug permeation through the skin for the largest amplitude of deformation. The combination of Tween 20 and SLS efficiently modified the rheological behavior of lipids, increasing their elasticity. This conclusion was supported by in vitro studies, where formulation F2 composed of Tween 20 and SLS demonstrated the highest permeation after 24 h (300.23 µg/cm2). Furthermore, the F2 formulation showed the highest encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 94%, surpassing those of the control and ethosomal formulations. Additionally, this transethosomal formulation exhibited antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, with a zone of inhibition of 26.4 ± 0.3 mm. Importantly, we assessed the cytotoxicity of both ethosomes and transethosomes at concentrations ranging from 3.5 µM to 50 µM on HaCaT cell lines and found no cytotoxic effects compared to TQ hydroethanolic solution. These results suggest the potential safety and efficacy of TQ transethosomal formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium compound derived from glutamic acid. Excessive daily ingestion of MSG leads to elevated amounts of glutamic acid in the bloodstream, which can be detrimental to brain structures. Camellia sinensis, often known as green tea (GT), is a rich source of essential hexogen antioxidants that are necessary for the body. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were divided into four groups (n = 8). Group 1 served as a control -ve group. Group 2 was given GT (1.5 ml/rat/day). Group 3 was given MSG (600 mg/kg/day). Group 4 was given MSG (600 mg/kg/day) and GT (1.5 ml/rat/day). All treatments were given orally for 28 days. MSG administration resulted in significant neurotoxicity in rats that was revealed by the significant reduction of serum concentration of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and nitric oxide (NO), and the significant elevation of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) accompanied by the significant reduction of levels of serum monoamines (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) and histological changes in the hippocampus area CA1, dentate gyrus, and cerebellar cortex and positive immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic proteins (GFAP) and calretinin. Administration of GT with MSG counteracted the MSG-mediated oxidative stress by significantly increasing serum concentrations of GPX and NO and significantly decreasing concentrations of TAC. Furthermore, GT significantly increased levels of serum monoamines (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine). Moreover, it ameliorated the histological changes, GFAP, and calretinin immunostaining in brain tissues. It is envisaged that GT will serve as a viable protective choice for the inclusion of the neurotoxicity treatment procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a food additive commonly consumed as a flavor enhancer. It has been a target of research due to toxicological effects. The aim of this study is to histologically assess the effect of maternal administration of monosodium glutamate on placental development in Wistar rat using appropriate standard methods after establishing pregnancy in animals with regular cyclicity by pairing them overnight with sexually active males in the ratio 2:1 and placentae harvested for histological studies. Histological studies of the placenta when treated with MSG showed there was varying alterations in the histomorphology of the placental ranging from degenerative changes in glycogen cell island in junctional zone of (gestational day)GD 15, mild congestion of sinusoid in labyrinth zone of GD 17, dilated and congested fetal capillary of labyrinth zone in GD 19, vacuolar degeneration of glycogen cell island in junctional zone of GD 17, dilated and congested spiral artery in junctional zone of GD19, dilated sinusoid in labyrinth zone of GD 19. In conclusion, this study shows that there is evidence of placental toxicity following maternal consumption of monosodium glutamate in Wistar rats. Further studies are recommended to assess the mechanism of MSG-induced placental toxicity, as well the effects of MSG-induced placental toxicity on the overall development of the fetus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify the most effective protectants for enhancing the viability of specific lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus CICC 6097, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CICC 21839, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM) by assessing their enzymatic activity when exposed to spray drying (inlet/outlet temperature: 135 °C/90 °C). Firstly, it was found that the live cell counts of the selected LAB cells from the 10% (w/v) recovered skim milk (RSM) group remained above 107 CFU/g after spray drying. Among all the three groups (1% w/v RSM group, 10% w/v RSM group, and control group), the two enzymes pyruvate kinase (PK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were more sensitive to spray drying than hexokinase (HK) and β-galactosidase (β-GAL). Next, transcriptome data of Lb. acidophilus NCFM showed that 10% (w/v) RSM improved the down-regulated expressions of genes encoding PK (pyk) and LDH (ldh) after spray drying compared to 1% (w/v) RSM. Finally, four composite protectants were created, each consisting of 10% (w/v) RSM plus a different additive—sodium glutamate (CP-A group), sucrose (CP-B group), trehalose (CP-C group), or a combination of sodium glutamate, sucrose, and trehalose (CP-D group)—to encapsulate Lb. acidophilus NCFM. It was observed that the viable counts of strain NCFM (8.56 log CFU/g) and enzymatic activity of PK and LDH in the CP-D group were best preserved compared to the other three groups. Therefore, our study suggested that measuring the LDH and PK activity could be used as a promising tool to screen the effective spray-dried protective agent for LAB cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural astaxanthin is in high demand due to its multiple health benefits. The microalga Haematococcus lacustris has been used for the commercial production of astaxanthin. In this study, we investigated the effects of six different media with and without a nitrogen source and supplementation with nine organic compounds on the growth and astaxanthin accumulation of H. lacustris. The highest astaxanthin contents were observed in cultures of H. lacustris in Jaworski's medium (JM), with a level of 9.099 mg/L in JM with a nitrogen source supplemented with leucine (0.65 g/L) and of 20.484 mg/L in JM without a nitrogen source supplemented with sodium glutamate (0.325 g/L). Six of the nine organic compounds examined (leucine, lysine, alanine, sodium glutamate, glutamine, and cellulose) enhanced the production of astaxanthin in H. lacustris, while malic acid, benzoic acid, and maltose showed no beneficial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burden of neurological disorders is growing substantially with limited therapeutic options, urging the consideration and assessment of alternative strategies. In this regard, we aimed to elucidate the phytochemical profile of the petroleum ether extract (PEE) of three palm tree species: Aiphanes eggersii Burret, Carpoxylon macrospermum H. Wendl. & Drude, and Jubaeopsis caffra Becc. (Family Arecaceae), and to evaluate their neuroprotective effect in monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced excitotoxicity model for the first time. We identified a total of 48, 18, and 45 compounds in A. eggersii, C. macrospermum, and J. caffra, constituting 79.41 %, 60.45 %, and 76.35 % of the total detected compounds, respectively. A. eggersii extract was rich in the methyl esters of fatty acids (65.08 %) especially methyl dodecanoate (17.72 %). C. macrospermum was exclusively prolific by the triterpene 3β-methoxy-d:c-friedo-b’:a'-neogammacer-9(11)-ene (40.36 %), while J. caffra was noticeable by hydrocarbons (30.14 %) and lupeol derivatives (19.79 %). The biochemical and histopathological analysis showed that the tested extracts significantly reduced the oxidative stress, especially at the highest tested dose (1000 mg/kg). The extracts also reduced the activity of induced nitric oxide synthetase, Ca+2 level, and NR2B subunit expression and attenuated apoptosis and DNA damage. The docking results show that most active natural compounds bind to SOD-1 and NR2B-NMDARs, verifying the credibility of the biological findings. To sum up, the PEE of the three investigated palm tree species possessed a unique blend of lipophilic bioactive constituents that exert promising neuroprotective potential against MSG-induced excitoneurotoxicity. However, further preclinical investigation and pharmaceutical formulation are needed.

This article reports a case of erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP) in a 38-year-old male following influenza vaccination. The patient developed eruptions around the vaccination site, which later spread to the entire body. EDP is a rare skin condition characterized by uniform dark brown-grey pigmentation. The article discusses the difficulty in managing EDP and mentions that isotretinoin has shown promise as a treatment option. This is the first reported case of EDP triggered by the influenza vaccine, and the diagnosis was confirmed through clinical presentation and histopathology. [Extracted from the article]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) mediates body weight gain (BWG) and oxidative stress. Azithromycin (AZT), may be abused and co-consumed with MSG to present unknown outcomes on BWG and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the effect of AZT and MSG in rats’ BWG and antioxidant bioindicators. Thirty rats assigned to five groups were orally exposed for seven consecutive days to groups A, control (distilled water, 1 ml/kg), B, MSG (MSG 8000 mg/kg), C, therapeutic AZT, TAZ (AZT 82.5 mg/kg), D, overdose AZT, OAZ (AZT 412.5 mg/kg) and E, TAZ + MSG (AZT 82.5 mg/kg + MSG 8000 mg/kg). MSG-treated rats exhibited a significantly (p < 0.05) increased BWG; serum, liver, kidney and heart reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) but decreased catalase (CAT) and zinc (Zn) levels compared to control. Co-treated TAZ + MSG rats significantly (p < 0.05) decreased BWG, GSH, GPX, SOD, Zn; increased CAT and non-significantly (p > 0.05) decreased MDA compared to MSG and control. Thus, TAZ significantly mitigated BWG, and malfunction in the metabolism of antioxidant defense bioindicators in MSG rats via probable anorexigenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses. This suggests that TAZ could be useful in managing MSG-related dysfunction in BWG and metabolic activity of the antioxidant defense apparatus in rats.

Abstract Background Monosodium glutamate (MSG E621) is one of the most popular flavouring agents of modern times and is widely used in many commercially packed food and even in house hold cooking. Previous studies revealed that excessive intake of MSG in diet causes obesity, metabolic defects, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats, but no reports are available in the literature about the ecotoxicological assessment of MSG by using fishes as a bioindicators. Since fishes are important consumer in aquatic food chain and directly linked with human health status, the present study was aimed to investigate the impact of MSG in freshwater fish Labeo rohita by using histological biomarkers. Results Ninety-six h-LC50 of MSG to Labeo rohita was determined (1.5 g/L), and fish exposed to sub-lethal concentration of MSG (1/10th of 96 h-LC50 concentration of MSG (150 mg/L)) showed distinguished behavioural changes like erratic movement, loss of appetite and excessive mucous secretion all over the body as an adaptive syndrome to avoid the direct exposure to MSG in the medium. Histopathological analysis clearly depicts severe damages in the vital organs of fish. In gills, epithelial necrosis, hypertrophy, hyperplasia, primary and secondary gill lamellae degeneration, oedema, fusion of adjacent secondary lamellae and rupture of gill epithelium were observed. The intensity of tissue damage was increased as the exposure period was extended. The liver displayed vein congestion, vacuole formation, degeneration in parenchymal cells and bile stagnation, whereas MSG-treated kidney tissue showed high interstitial inflammation. Among the vital organs gill and liver displayed the highest histopathological alterations. Conclusions The present study clearly demonstrated that MSG is toxic to fish and able to cause significant damages in the vital organs as the exposure period was extended. Since the studies on the toxicity of MSG to fish are rare, the present investigation may contribute to the scarce literature on sub-lethal toxicity of MSG to freshwater fishes.

Reeko Osada,1 Chiyako Oshikata,1– 3 Yuichi Kurihara,4 Kosuke Terada,1 Yuka Kodama,1 Yuga Yamashita,1 Ryo Nakadegawa,1 Hinako Masumitsu,1 Yuto Motobayashi,1 Hirokazu Takayasu,1 Nami Masumoto,1,3 Saki Manabe,1 Yingyao Zhu,4 Ryo Tanaka,4 Takeshi Kaneko,3 Aya Sasaki,5 Naomi Tsurikisawa1– 3 1Department of Respirology, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan; 2Department of Allergy and Respirology, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Japan; 3Department of Pulmonology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; 4Department of Dermatology, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Japan; 5Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, JapanCorrespondence: Naomi Tsurikisawa, Department of Respirology, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, 3-60-2 Harajuku, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, 245-8575, Japan, Tel +81-45-851-2621, Fax +81-45-851-3902, Email User831328@aol.comAbstract: Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a salt form of a non-essential amino acid, is widely used as a food additive, particularly in Asian cuisines, due to its unique flavor-enhancing qualities. Type I allergic reactions to MSG have not previously been reported. Our patient, a 21-year-old woman, was 14 years old when she first noticed swelling of her tongue (but no oral itching, diarrhea, or abdominal pain) after eating various snack foods. Current skin prick testing elicited a weak positive reaction to MSG. We then performed an oral challenge test during which our patient ingested potato snacks. Subsequent histology showed telangiectasia of the buccal mucosa, interstitial edema in the subepithelial submucosa, and mast cell infiltration. Oral mucosal challenge tests using sodium glutamate confirmed oral swelling in this patient. This report is the first to confirm a case of type 1 allergy to MSG by combining pathology findings with the results of challenge testing.Keywords: food additive, mast cell, monosodium glutamate, food allergy

Simple Summary: Taste perception in birds still needs to be clarified, and it is essential to advance investigations into improving nutrition in poultry farming. This study evaluated the effects of age, compound delivery matrix, and number of birds per pen on broilers' preferences and consumption behaviour and obtained preference values for four taste compounds. The results indicated that chickens in the initial stage showed higher preferences and expressed more consumption behaviours. Birds in front of a water matrix showed higher preferences and increased their consumption behaviours, while in front of a ground wheat matrix, they increased their number of pecks. Furthermore, pairs of birds showed higher preference and consumption behaviours than single chickens. Finally, we registered significant preference values for sucrose and monosodium glutamate at different times. We concluded that the variables evaluated in this research condition the preferences and consumption behaviour of the birds, suggesting the use of early-stage chickens in pairs or groups and employing liquid matrices for compound delivery to enhance future trials. Due to substantial differences between studies, the understanding of avian taste perception remains incomplete. Also, studies on chicken taste preferences have mainly focused on measuring consumption differences, neglecting consumption behaviour patterns. This study investigated how age, the compound delivery matrix, and the number of birds per pen affect broiler chicken preferences and consumption behaviour, and established their preference values for four taste compounds. Ninety-six one-day-old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were divided into two age groups (initial: days 7–23; final: days 26–42), with two compound delivery matrices (water or ground wheat) and two numbers of birds (one or two chickens per pen), following a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design. Four taste compounds (sucrose, monosodium glutamate (MSG), L-lysine, and calcium carbonate) were tested at different concentrations. Preferences were assessed at 2, 4, and 8 h post-test, along with recording various behavioural parameters. Initial-stage birds showed higher (p < 0.001) preference values, time of approach (TA), number of bouts (NB), duration of bouts (DB), and number of pecks (NP) than final-stage birds. Birds exposed to a water matrix also exhibited higher (p < 0.001) preference and NB, while those exposed to a ground wheat matrix showed a higher (p < 0.001) NP. Pens with a pair of birds had a higher (p < 0.003) 2 h preference, TA, NB, DB, and NP, than pens with a single chicken. Chickens showed significant preference values for 100 mM sucrose at 2 h (p = 0.025), 150 mM MSG at 4 h (p = 0.026) and 8 h (p = 0.013), and 300 mM MSG at 2 h (p = 0.013). We concluded that all the variables evaluated influence broilers' taste preferences and consumption behaviour during selection tests. Future studies should prioritize including chickens in the initial stage of the production cycle, testing them in pairs or groups, and delivering compounds via a liquid matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]