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International Journal of Biological... Apr 2022As a new starch gelatinization method, salt induced gelatinization can not only reduce energy consumption but also impart special physicochemical properties to starch...
As a new starch gelatinization method, salt induced gelatinization can not only reduce energy consumption but also impart special physicochemical properties to starch gel. In this study, the process and mechanism of MgCl induced starch gelatinization were explored. The results showed that, potato starch could be gelatinized after a treatment of 4 mol/L MgCl for 3 h. The gelatinization started with the slight damage of outer shells, then the internal molecules leached out through the cracks or holes to form gel, finally the outer shells disintegrated. During the gelatinization process, the viscosity and granule size gradually increased after 0.5 h, while the original crystallinity disappeared rapidly in 0.5 h. Besides, MgCl significantly increased the electrostatic interaction, then made starch molecules closer to each other and become denser, which may have close relationship with the appearance of the cracks and the disappearance of crystallization. Moreover, MgCl enhanced the hydration and increased the binding free energy of starch molecules, then promoted starch gelatinization and accelerated the destruction of starch structure, which may be the critical factors of the starch gelatinization induced by MgCl. The results will provide reference for the research and application of salt induced gelatinization.
Topics: Chemical Phenomena; Crystallization; Magnesium Chloride; Starch; Viscosity
PubMed: 35181319
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.02.061 -
Bioanalysis Jul 2023The presence of di-/multi-meric forms of soluble target in biological samples can interfere in anti-drug antibody (ADA) assays, leading to increased background values...
The presence of di-/multi-meric forms of soluble target in biological samples can interfere in anti-drug antibody (ADA) assays, leading to increased background values and potentially false positivity. The authors investigated the use of the high ionic strength dissociation assay (HISDA) to reduce target interference in two different ADA assays. Interference caused by homodimeric FAP was successfully eliminated to enable cut point determination after applying HISDA. Biochemical experiments confirmed the dissociation of homodimeric FAP after treatment with high ionic strength conditions. HISDA is a promising approach to simultaneously achieve high drug tolerance and reduced interference by noncovalently bound dimeric target molecules in ADA assays without extensive optimization, which is particularly advantageous in routine use.
Topics: Antibodies; Drug Tolerance
PubMed: 37326333
DOI: 10.4155/bio-2023-0082 -
Acta Biochimica Et Biophysica Sinica Feb 2021The activation of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome can be induced by a wide spectrum of activators. This is unlikely achieved by the binding of... (Review)
Review
The activation of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome can be induced by a wide spectrum of activators. This is unlikely achieved by the binding of different activators directly to the NLRP3 protein itself, as the activators found so far show different forms of chemical structures. Previous studies have shown that these activators can induce potassium ion (K+) and chloride ion (Cl-) efflux, calcium (Ca2+) and other ion mobilization, mitochondrial dysfunction, and lysosomal disruption, all of which are believed to cause NLRP3 inflammasome activation; how these events are induced by the activators and how they coordinate with each other in inducing the NLRP3 inflammasome activation are not fully understood. Increasing evidence suggests that the coordinated change of intracellular ion concentrations may be a common mechanism for the NLRP3 activation by different activators. In this mini-review, we present a brief summary of the current knowledge about how different ionic flows (including K+, sodium ion, Ca2+, magnesium ion, manganese ion, zinc ion, iron ion, and Cl-) are involved in regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Inflammasomes; Ion Transport; Lysosomes; Macrophages; Mitochondria; NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein
PubMed: 33355638
DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa155 -
The Journal of Chemical Physics May 2023The structures of magnesium chloride dimer-water clusters, (MgCl2)2(H2O)n-/0, were investigated with size-selected anion photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical...
The structures of magnesium chloride dimer-water clusters, (MgCl2)2(H2O)n-/0, were investigated with size-selected anion photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical calculations to understand the dissolution of magnesium chloride in water. The most stable structures were confirmed by comparing vertical detachment energies (VDEs) with the experimental measurements. A dramatic drop of VDE at n = 3 has been observed in the experiment, which is in accordance with the structural change of (MgCl2)2(H2O)n-. Compared to the neutral clusters, the excess electron induces two significant phenomena in (MgCl2)2(H2O)n-. First, the planar D2h geometry can be converted into a C3v structure at n = 0, making the Mg-Cl bonds easier to be broken by water molecules. More importantly, a negative charge-transfer-to-solvent process occurs after adding three water molecules (i.e., at n = 3), which leads to an obvious deviation in the evolution of the clusters. Such electron transfer behavior was noticed at n = 1 in monomer MgCl2(H2O)n-, indicating that the dimerization between two MgCl2 molecules can make the cluster more capable of binding electron. In neutral (MgCl2)2(H2O)n, this dimerization provides more sites for the added water molecules, which can stabilize the entire cluster and maintain its initial structure. Specifically, filling the coordination number to be 6 for Mg atoms can be seen as a link between structural preferences in the dissolution of the monomers, dimers, and extended bulk-state of MgCl2. This work represents an important step forward into fully understanding the solvation of MgCl2 crystals and other multivalent salt oligomers.
PubMed: 37140000
DOI: 10.1063/5.0146319 -
Cirugia Y Cirujanos 2022Postoperative intraabdominal adhesions are obvious cause of postoperative morbidity. In this experimental study, our aim is to compare the effects of 4% icodextrin...
OBJECTIVE
Postoperative intraabdominal adhesions are obvious cause of postoperative morbidity. In this experimental study, our aim is to compare the effects of 4% icodextrin produced for adhesion prevention, magnesium sulfate used as an anticonvulsant in obstetrics and also as a thickening lubricant in the detergent industry, and saline, which we use most frequently in abdominal irrigation, on adhesion formation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A total of 4 groups were formed, 8 in the control group (K), 8 in the icodextrin group (I), 8 in the magnesium sulfate group (M), and 8 in the saline group (SF). Adhesions were quantitatively evaluated with the classification defined by Nair and microscopic grading defined by Zuhlke.
RESULTS
The macroscopic staging degree was statistically significantly lower in Group M, I, and SF compared to Group K. Again, the degree of microscopic staging was significantly lower in Group M and I compared to Group K.
CONCLUSIONS
Three different materials were used in our study. It was observed that they significantly reduced adhesions. This study once again demonstrates the limited ability of these materials to prevent adhesion, despite the wide variety of materials used, and the need for careful adherence to tissue-respectful surgical techniques.
Topics: Humans; Icodextrin; Magnesium Sulfate; Postoperative Complications; Sodium Chloride; Tissue Adhesions
PubMed: 35349560
DOI: 10.24875/CIRU.21000162 -
Annals of Family Medicine Apr 2022Depression affects up to 15% of community-dwelling older adults. Late-life depression is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. When depression in older adults is...
CONTEXT
Depression affects up to 15% of community-dwelling older adults. Late-life depression is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. When depression in older adults is identified, up to 80% of treatment occurs in primary care. Currently available treatments have significant limitations (e.g., modest effectiveness, high costs, adverse effects, poor adherence, and social stigma), therefore additional treatment options are essential. Over the counter magnesium chloride is inexpensive, widely available, generally safe, well-absorbed, and was efficacious in prior studies, often within 2 weeks.
OBJECTIVE
To collect background information on magnesium supplement use and acceptability in older adults with a depression.
STUDY DESIGN
Online survey.
DATASET
National sample.
POPULATION STUDIED
Adults 65 and older living in the United States currently experiencing symptoms of depression based on Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ- 2) results.
OUTCOME MEASURES
The primary outcome was willingness to take magnesium supplements instead of prescription medication for the treatment of depression. Secondary measures included current supplement use, comfort level with taking magnesium to treat depression, and whether they think magnesium would help improve symptoms of depression.
RESULTS
Of 153 respondents, 97 (63%) were female, 143 (93%) identified as white, and 130 (85%) were between the ages 65 and 75 years. 112 (73%) took a supplement daily, including 15 (10%) taking magnesium. 50 (33%) were currently being treated for depression. On a 4-point Likert scale ranging from "Strongly Agree" to "Strongly Disagree," 83% of respondents "Agreed" or "Strongly Agreed" in terms of their willingness to take magnesium instead of a prescription medication. A majority also "Agreed" or "Strongly Agreed" that they were willing (89%) and comfortable (89%) with taking magnesium to treat depression and also that it would improve symptoms of depression (73%). Women were more likely to agree with these statements (p<0.05), but there were no differences based on age or current treatment for depression.
CONCLUSIONS
A majority of older community-dwelling adults are willing to take magnesium for the treatment of depression. Many adults are already taking at least 1 over the counter supplement daily. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of magnesium supplements as an alternative treatment option in this population.
Topics: Aged; Depression; Female; Humans; Independent Living; Magnesium; Male; Prescription Drugs; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States
PubMed: 35904841
DOI: 10.1370/afm.20.s1.3075 -
Nutrients Aug 2021Gitelman's (GS) and Bartter's (BS) syndromes are rare, inherited autosomal recessive tubulopathies characterized by hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal sodium,... (Review)
Review
Gitelman's (GS) and Bartter's (BS) syndromes are rare, inherited autosomal recessive tubulopathies characterized by hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal sodium, chloride, and potassium and magnesium-wasting. While the treatment based on potassium, sodium, chloride, and magnesium supplementation in addition to other pharmacologic options are widely established, recommendations about the dietary approach to GS and BS still remain generic. In this review we focus on the dietary strategies to increase sodium, potassium, and magnesium intake in GS and BS patients. Potassium and magnesium-rich foods and supplements are considered together with those that may reduce through different mechanisms the potassium and magnesium plasma level. Magnesium supplementation is often poorly tolerated, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea in most patients. New formulations using liposome and, in particular, sucrosomial technology have been recently proposed for magnesium supplementation in order to increase magnesium supplement tolerability and intestinal absorption. The dietary approach to GS and BS may be very important in the therapeutic approach to these syndromes. Due to the relevance of the dietary approach to these syndromes, a nutritional counseling should always be recommended and the nutritionist should join nephrologists in the follow-up of GS and BS patient care.
Topics: Bartter Syndrome; Diet; Gitelman Syndrome; Humans; Magnesium; Potassium, Dietary; Sodium, Dietary
PubMed: 34578838
DOI: 10.3390/nu13092960 -
Kidney Research and Clinical Practice Dec 2021In the kidney, a set of proteins expressed in the epithelial cells of the thick ascending loop of Henle and the distal convoluted tubule directly or indirectly play...
In the kidney, a set of proteins expressed in the epithelial cells of the thick ascending loop of Henle and the distal convoluted tubule directly or indirectly play important roles in the regulation of serum magnesium levels. Magnesium reabsorption in the thick ascending loop of Henle occurs through a passive paracellular pathway, while in the distal convoluted tubule, the final magnesium concentration is established through an active transcellular pathway. The players involved in magnesium reabsorption include proteins with diverse functions including tight junction proteins, cation and anion channels, sodium chloride cotransporter, calcium-sensing receptor, epidermal growth factor, cyclin M2, sodium potassium adenosine triphosphatase subunits, transcription factors, a serine protease, and proteins involved in mitochondrial function. Mutations in the genes that encode these proteins impair their function and cause different rare diseases associated with hypomagnesemia, which may lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, epileptic seizures, intellectual disability, cardiac arrhythmias, and chronic kidney disease. The purpose of this review is to describe the clinical and genetic characteristics of these hereditary kidney diseases and the current research findings on the pathophysiological basis of these diseases.
PubMed: 34784661
DOI: 10.23876/j.krcp.21.112 -
Journal of the American Society of... Apr 2024High-resolution single-nucleus RNA-sequencing data indicate a clear separation between primary sites of calcium and magnesium handling within distal convoluted tubule...
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT
High-resolution single-nucleus RNA-sequencing data indicate a clear separation between primary sites of calcium and magnesium handling within distal convoluted tubule (DCT). Both DCT1 and DCT2 express Slc12a3, but these subsegments serve distinctive functions, with more abundant magnesium-handling genes along DCT1 and more calcium-handling genes along DCT2. The data also provide insight into the plasticity of the distal nephron-collecting duct junction, formed from cells of separate embryonic origins. By focusing/changing gradients of gene expression, the DCT can morph into different physiological cell states on demand.
BACKGROUND
The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) comprises two subsegments, DCT1 and DCT2, with different functional and molecular characteristics. The functional and molecular distinction between these segments, however, has been controversial.
METHODS
To understand the heterogeneity within the DCT population with better clarity, we enriched for DCT nuclei by using a mouse line combining "Isolation of Nuclei Tagged in specific Cell Types" and sodium chloride cotransporter-driven inducible Cre recombinase. We sorted the fluorescently labeled DCT nuclei using Fluorescence-Activated Nucleus Sorting and performed single-nucleus transcriptomics.
RESULTS
Among 25,183 DCT cells, 75% were from DCT1 and 25% were from DCT2. In addition, there was a small population (<1%) enriched in proliferation-related genes, such as Top2a , Cenpp , and Mki67 . Although both DCT1 and DCT2 expressed sodium chloride cotransporter, magnesium transport genes were predominantly expressed along DCT1, whereas calcium, electrogenic sodium, and potassium transport genes were more abundant along DCT2. The transition between these two segments was gradual, with a transitional zone in which DCT1 and DCT2 cells were interspersed. The expression of the homeobox genes by DCT cells suggests that they develop along different trajectories.
CONCLUSIONS
Transcriptomic analysis of an enriched rare cell population using a genetically targeted approach clarifies the function and classification of distal cells. The DCT segment is short, can be separated into two subsegments that serve distinct functions, and is speculated to derive from different origins during development.
Topics: Calcium; Magnesium; Sodium Chloride Symporters; Ion Transport; RNA; Kidney Tubules, Distal
PubMed: 38238903
DOI: 10.1681/ASN.0000000000000297 -
Frontiers in Physiology 2022The inclusion of cephalopods in the legislation related to the use of animals for experimental purposes has been based on the precautionary principle that these animals...
The inclusion of cephalopods in the legislation related to the use of animals for experimental purposes has been based on the precautionary principle that these animals have the capacity to experience pain, suffering, distress, and lasting harm. Recent studies have expanded this view and supported it. Handling cephalopod mollusks in research is challenging and whenever more invasive procedures are required, sedation and/or anesthesia becomes necessary. Therefore, finding adequate, safe, and effective anesthetics appears mandatory. Several substances have been considered in sedating cephalopods, in some instances applying those utilized for fish. However, species-specific variability requires more detailed studies. Despite long-lasting experience being linked to classic studies on squid giant axons, evidence of action on putative anesthetic substances is scarce for and particularly for their embryos. The aim of the current study was to evaluate effects elicited by immersion of squid embryos in anesthetic solutions and examine whether these forms display a similar reaction to anesthetics as adults do. Different concentrations of ethanol (EtOH; 2, 2.5, and 3%) and magnesium chloride (MgCl; 1, 1.5, and 1.8%) were tested by adopting a set of indicators aimed at exploring the physiological responses of squid embryos. Forty-two embryos of the common squid (stages 27-28) were assigned to three conditions (EtOH, MgCl and controls) and video recorded for 15 min (5 min before, 5 min during, and 5 min after immersion in the anesthetic solutions). In each group, the heart rate, respiratory rate, buoyancy, chromatophore activity, and tentacles/arms responses were assessed to evaluate the embryos' vitality and responsiveness to stimulation. Both substances provoked a decrease in heart and respiratory rates and inhibited buoyancy, chromatophores, and tentacles/arms responses; no adverse effects were observed. EtOH had a faster onset of action and faster recovery than MgCl, being potentially more adequate as an anesthetic for shorter procedures. Even though MgCl caused a longer muscle relaxation, the reversibility was not confirmed for the 1.8% concentration; however, lower concentrations triggered similar results as the ones obtained with the highest EtOH concentrations. We have shown that the late developmental stages of embryos could represent a good model to evaluate anesthetics for cephalopods since they can display similar reactions to anesthetics as adults animals do.
PubMed: 36388114
DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.968047