Relation between the gut microbiota and human health is being increasingly recognised. It is now well established that a healthy gut flora is largely responsible for overall health of the host. The normal human gut mi...Relation between the gut microbiota and human health is being increasingly recognised. It is now well established that a healthy gut flora is largely responsible for overall health of the host. The normal human gut microbiota comprises of two major phyla, namely Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Though the gut microbiota in an infant appears haphazard, it starts resembling the adult flora by the age of 3 years. Nevertheless, there exist temporal and spatial variations in the microbial distribution from esophagus to the rectum all along the individual's life span. Developments in genome sequencing technologies and bioinformatics have now enabled scientists to study these microorganisms and their function and microbehost interactions in an elaborate manner both in health and disease. The normal gut microbiota imparts specific function in host nutrient metabolism, xenobiotic and drug metabolism, maintenance of structural integrity of the gut mucosal barrier, immunomodulation, and protection against pathogens. Several factors play a role in shaping the normal gut microbiota. They include(1) the mode of delivery(vaginal or caesarean);(2) diet during infancy(breast milk or formula feeds) and adulthood(vegan based or meat based); and(3) use of antibiotics or antibiotic like molecules that are derived from the environment or the gut commensal community. A major concern of antibiotic use is the long-term alteration of the normal healthy gut microbiota and horizontal transfer of resistance genes that could result in reservoir of organisms with a multidrug resistant gene pool.展开更多
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry （LC-MS）-based metabolomics has been facilitated by the con- struction of MSz spectral tag （MS2T） library from the total scan ESI MS/MS data, and the development of widely ta...Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry （LC-MS）-based metabolomics has been facilitated by the con- struction of MSz spectral tag （MS2T） library from the total scan ESI MS/MS data, and the development of widely targeted metabolomics method using MS/MS data gathered from authentic standards. In this report, a novel strategy called step- wise multiple ion monitoring-enhanced product ions （stepwise MIM-EPI） was developed to construct the MS2T library, in which stepwise MIM was used as survey scans to trigger the acquisition of EPI. A total number of 698 （almost） non- redundant metabolites with MS2 spectra were obtained, of which 135 metabolites were identified/annotated. Integrating the data gathered from our MS2T library and other available multiple reaction monitoring （MRM） information, a widely targeted metabolomics method was developed to quantify 277 metabolites, including some phytohormones. Evaluation of the dehydration responses and natural variations of these metabolites in rice leaf not only suggested the coordinated regulation of abscisic acid （ABA） with metabolites such as serotonin derivative（s）, polyamine conjugates under drought stress, but also revealed some C-glycosylated flavones as the potential markers for the discrimination of indica and japonica rice subspecies. The new MS2T library construction and widely targeted metabolomics strategy could be used as a tool for rice functional genomics.展开更多
Altered metabolism is a hallmark of cancer,and the reprogramming of energy metabolism has historically been considered a general phenomenon of tumors.It is well recognized that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)regulate ene...Altered metabolism is a hallmark of cancer,and the reprogramming of energy metabolism has historically been considered a general phenomenon of tumors.It is well recognized that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)regulate energy metabolism in cancer.However,lncRNA-mediated posttranslational modifications and metabolic reprogramming are unclear at present.In this review,we summarized the current understanding of the interactions between the alterations in cancer-associated energy metabolism and the lncRNA-mediated posttranslational modifications of metabolic enzymes,transcription factors,and other proteins involved in metabolic pathways.In addition,we discuss the mechanisms through which these interactions contribute to tumor initiation and progression,and the key roles and clinical significance of functional lncRNAs.We believe that an in-depth understanding of lncRNA-mediated cancer metabolic reprogramming can help to identify cellular vulnerabilities that can be exploited for cancer diagnosis and therapy.展开更多
Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection is very common and affects approximately half of the world population. It causes gastric diseases, but some authors have reported an association of H. pylori infection with oth...Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection is very common and affects approximately half of the world population. It causes gastric diseases, but some authors have reported an association of H. pylori infection with other systemic manifestations beginning in 1994. The list of potential effects of H. pylori outside the stomach includes a number of extragastric manifestations and we focused on neurological, dermatological, hematologic, ocular, cardiovascular, metabolic, allergic, and hepatobiliary diseases. This review discusses these important reported manifestations that are not related to the gastrointestinal tract.展开更多
Phenylpropanoid metabolism is one of the most important metabolisms in plants, yielding more than 8,000 metabolites contributing to plant development and plant-environment interplay.Phenylpropanoid metabolism material...Phenylpropanoid metabolism is one of the most important metabolisms in plants, yielding more than 8,000 metabolites contributing to plant development and plant-environment interplay.Phenylpropanoid metabolism materialized during the evolution of early freshwater algae that were initiating terrestrialization and land plants have evolved multiple branches of this pathway, which give rise to metabolites including lignin, flavonoids, lignans, phenylpropanoid esters, hydroxycinnamic acid amides, and sporopollenin.Recent studies have revealed that many factors participate in the regulation of phenylpropanoid metabolism, and modulate phenylpropanoid homeostasis when plants undergo successive developmental processes and are subjected to stressful environments. In this review, we summarize recent progress on elucidating the contribution of phenylpropanoid metabolism to the coordination of plant development and plant–environment interaction, and metabolic flux redirection among diverse metabolic routes. In addition, our review focuses on the regulation of phenylpropanoid metabolism at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, post-translational,and epigenetic levels, and in response to phytohormones and biotic and abiotic stresses.展开更多
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has, although it is a very common disorder, only relatively recently gained broader interest among physicians and scientists. Fatty liver has been documented in up to 10 to 15 ...Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has, although it is a very common disorder, only relatively recently gained broader interest among physicians and scientists. Fatty liver has been documented in up to 10 to 15 percent of normal individuals and 70 to 80 percent of obese individuals. Although the pathophysiology of NAFLD is still subject to intensive research, several players and mechanisms have been suggested based on the substantial evidence. Excessive hepatocyte triglyceride accumulation resulting from insulin resistance is the first step in the proposed 'two hit' model of the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Oxidative stress resulting from mitochondrial fatty acids oxidation, NF-κB-dependent inflammatory cytokine expression and adipocytokines are all considered to be the potential factors causing second hits which lead to hepatocyte injury, inflammation and fibrosis. Although it was initially believed that NAFLD is a completely benign disorder, histologic follow-up studies have showed that fibrosis progression occurs in about a third of patients. A small number of patients with NAFLD eventually ends up with end-stage liver disease and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Although liver biopsy is currently the only way to confirm the NAFLD diagnosis and distinguish between fatty liver alone and NASH, no guidelines or firm recommendations can still be made as for when and in whom it is necessary. Increased physical activity, gradual weight reduction and in selected cases bariatric surgery remain the mainstay of NAFLD therapy. Studies with pharmacologic agents are showing promising results, but available data are still insufficient to make specific recommendations; their use therefore remains highly individual.展开更多
Metabolic syndrome characterized by obesity, hyperglycemia and liver steatosis is becoming prevalent all over the world. Herein, a water insoluble polysaccharide(WIP) was isolated and identified from the sclerotium of...Metabolic syndrome characterized by obesity, hyperglycemia and liver steatosis is becoming prevalent all over the world. Herein, a water insoluble polysaccharide(WIP) was isolated and identified from the sclerotium of Poria cocos, a widely used Traditional Chinese Medicine. WIP was confirmed to be a(1-3)-β-D-glucan with an average Mw of 4.486 × 10~6 Da by NMR and SEC-RI-MALLS analyses. Furthermore, oral treatment with WIP from P. cocos significantly improved glucose and lipid metabolism and alleviated hepatic steatosis in ob/ob mice. 16 S DNA sequencing analysis of cecum content from WIP-treated mice indicated the increase of butyrate-producing bacteria Lachnospiracea, Clostridium. It was also observed that WIP treatment elevated the level of butyrate in gut, improved the gut mucosal integrity and activated the intestinal PPAR-γ pathway. Fecal transplantation experiments definitely confirmed the causative role of gut microbiota in mediating the benefits of WIP. It is the first report that the water insoluble polysaccharide from the sclerotium of P. cocos modulates gut microbiota to improve hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Thereby, WIP from P. cocos, as a prebiotic, has the potential for the prevention or cure of metabolic diseases and may elucidate new mechanism for the efficacies of this traditional herbal medicine on the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism.展开更多
Objective To estimate the relative risks of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndromes among overweight and obese Chinese children compared with their normal weight counterparts. Methods Ov...Objective To estimate the relative risks of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndromes among overweight and obese Chinese children compared with their normal weight counterparts. Methods Overweight and obesity were defined by age- and sex-specific BMI classification reference for Chinese children and adolescents. Pediatric metabolic syndrome （MetS） and each risk factor for MetS were defined using the criteria for US adolescents. Definition of hyper-TC, LDL, and dyslipidemia for adults was applied as well. General linear model factor analysis and chi-square test were used to compare the difference in metabolic indicators among normal weight, overweight, and obese groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odds ratio of metabolic abnormalities between obesity, overweight, and normal weight children, after adjustment for living area, family economic level, age, sex, and daily exercise time and TV watching time, as well as different dietary indices in the model. Results Significant increases in blood lipids, glucose, and blood pressure were found among overweight and obese children as compared with their counterparts with normal weight. By applying WGOC-recommended BMI classification, the risks for hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL and dyslipidemia among overweight children were 1.9, 1.4, and 1.5 times, and was 3.3, 1.5, and 1.8 times among obese groups compared to their counterparts with normal weight after adjustment for age, sex, region, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and dietary intakes. The overweight and obese children （15-17.9 years） had a high-risk of developing hypertension, which was 2.3 and 2.9 times higher than their counterparts with normal weight. Above 90% obese adolescents had abdominal obesity, while less than 1% normal weight ones had abdominal obesity. No obese adolescents were free from any risk factors for MetS, while 36.9% of normal weight adolescents were from the risk factors. 83.3% obese boys and all obese girls had me展开更多
Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, or Chinese skullcap, has been widely used as a medicinal plant in China for thousands of years, where the preparation from its roots is called Huang-Qin. It has been applied in the trea...Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, or Chinese skullcap, has been widely used as a medicinal plant in China for thousands of years, where the preparation from its roots is called Huang-Qin. It has been applied in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, hypertension, hemorrhaging, insomnia,inflammation and respiratory infections. Flavones such as baicalin, wogonoside and their aglycones baicalein wogonin are the major bioactive compounds extracted from the root of S. baicalensis. These flavones have been reported to have various pharmacological functions, including anti-cancer,hepatoprotection, antibacterial and antiviral, antioxidant,anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects. In this review,we focus on clinical applications and the pharmacological properties of the medicinal plant and the flavones extracted from it. We also describe biotechnological and metabolic methods that have been used to elucidate the biosynthetic pathways of the bioactive compounds in Scutellaria.展开更多
It is well known that an unhealthy lifestyle is a major risk factor for metabolic diseases,while in recent years,accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome and its metabolites also play a crucial r...It is well known that an unhealthy lifestyle is a major risk factor for metabolic diseases,while in recent years,accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome and its metabolites also play a crucial role in the onset and development of many metabolic diseases,including obesity,type 2 diabetes,nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,cardiovascular disease and so on.Numerous microorganisms dwell in the gastrointestinal tract,which is a key interface for energy acquisition and can metabolize dietary nutrients into many bioactive substances,thus acting as a link between the gut microbiome and its host.The gut microbiome is shaped by host genetics,immune responses and dietary factors.The metabolic and immune potential of the gut microbiome determines its significance in host health and diseases.Therefore,targeting the gut microbiome and relevant metabolic pathways would be effective therapeutic treatments for many metabolic diseases in the near future.This review will summarize information about the role of the gut microbiome in organism metabolism and the relationship between gut microbiome-derived metabolites and the pathogenesis of many metabolic diseases.Furthermore,recent advances in improving metabolic diseases by regulating the gut microbiome will be discussed.展开更多
Anthocyanins have high antioxidant activities, and engineering of anthocyanin biosynthesis in staple crops, such as rice （Oryza sativa L.）, could provide health-promoting foods for improving human health. However, e...Anthocyanins have high antioxidant activities, and engineering of anthocyanin biosynthesis in staple crops, such as rice （Oryza sativa L.）, could provide health-promoting foods for improving human health. However, engineering metabolic pathways for biofortification remains difficult, and previous attempts to engineer anthocyanin production in rice endosperm failed because of the sophisticated genetic regulatory network of its biosynthetic pathway. In this study, we developed a high-efficiency vector system for transgene stacking and used it to engineer anthocyanin biosynthesis in rice endosperm. We made a construct containing eight anthocyanin-related genes （two regulatory genes from maize and six structural genes from Coleus） driven by the endosperm-specific promoters,plus a selectable marker and a gene for marker excision. Transformation of rice with this construct generated a novel biofortified germplasm ＂Purple Endosperm Rice＂ （called ＂Zijingmi＂ in Chinese）, which has high anthocyanin contents and antioxidant activity in the endosperm. This anthocyanin production results from expression of the transgenes and the resulting activation （or enhancement） of expression of 13 endogenous anthocyanin biosynthesis genes that are silenced or expressed at low levels in wild-type rice endosperm. This study provides an efficient, versatile toolkit for transgene stacking and demonstrates its use for successful engineering of a sophisticated biological pathway, suggesting the potential utility of this toolkit for synthetic biology and improvement of agronomic traits in plants.展开更多
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) encompasses the simple steatosis to more progressive steatosis with associated hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and in some cases hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is a growing ep...Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) encompasses the simple steatosis to more progressive steatosis with associated hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and in some cases hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is a growing epidemic, not only in the United States, but worldwide in part due to obesity and insulin resistance leading to liver accumulation of triglycerides and free fatty acids. Numerous risk factors for the development of NAFLD have been espoused with most having some form of metabolic derangement or insulin resistance at the core of its pathophysiology. NAFLD patients are at increased risk of liver-related as well as cardiovascular mortality, and NAFLD is rapidly becoming the leading indication for liver transplantation. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis, but the development of noninvasive advanced imaging, biochemical and genetic tests will no doubt provide future clinicians with a great deal of information and opportunity for enhanced understanding of the pathogenesis and targeted treatment. As it currently stands several medications/supplements are being used in the treatment of NAFLD; however, none seem to be the "magic bullet" in curtailing this growing problem yet. In this review we summarized the current knowledge of NAFLD epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, pathogenesis, pathologic changes, natural history, and treatment in order to aid in further understanding this disease and better managing NAFLD patients.展开更多
Sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary choices are leading to a weight gain epidemic in westernized countries, subsequently increasing the risk for developing the metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease ...Sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary choices are leading to a weight gain epidemic in westernized countries, subsequently increasing the risk for developing the metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is estimated to affect approximate 30% of the general US population and is considered the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. Recent findings linking the components of the metabolic syndrome with NAFLD and the progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) will be reviewed; in particular, the role of visceral adipose tissue, insulin resistance, and adipocytokines in the exacerbation of these conditions. While no therapy has been proven effective for treating NAFLD/NASH, common recommendations will be discussed.展开更多
Artemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood or Qinghao, is a shrub native to China and has long been used for medicinal purposes. A. annua is now cultivated globally as the only natural source of a potent anti-m...Artemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood or Qinghao, is a shrub native to China and has long been used for medicinal purposes. A. annua is now cultivated globally as the only natural source of a potent anti-malarial compound, artemisinin. Here, we report a high-quality draft assembly of the 1.74-gigabase genome of A. annua, which is highly heterozygous, rich in repetitive sequences, and contains 63 226 protein-coding genes, one of the largest numbers among the sequenced plant species. We found that, as one of a few sequenced genomes in the Asteraceae, the A. annua genome contains a large number of genes specific to this large angiosperm clade. Notably, the expansion and functional diversification of genes encoding enzymes involved in terpene biosynthesis are consistent with the evolution of the artemi- sinin biosynthetic pathway. We further revealed by transcriptome profiling that A. annua has evolved the sophisticated transcriptional regulatory networks underlying artemisinin biosynthesis. Based on compre- hensive genomic and transcriptomic analyses we generated transgenic A. annua lines producing high levels of artemisinin, which are now ready for large-scale production and thereby will help meet the chal- lenge of increasing global demand of artemisinin.展开更多
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver of a patient without a history of alcohol abuse.Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH),a severe form of NAFLD,can progres...Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver of a patient without a history of alcohol abuse.Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH),a severe form of NAFLD,can progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.NAFLD is regarded as a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and incidence has been increasing worldwide in line with the increased prevalence of obesity,type 2 diabetes,and hyperlipemia.Animal models of NAFLD/NASH give crucial information,not only in elucidating pathogenesis of NAFLD/NASH but also in examining therapeutic effects of various agents.An ideal model of NAFLD/NASH should correctly reflect both hepatic histopathology and pathophysiology of human NAFLD/NASH.Animal models of NAFLD/NASH are divided into genetic,dietary,and combination models.In this paper,we review commonly used animal models of NAFLD/NASH referring to their advantages and disadvantages.展开更多
AIM:To clarify whether nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.METHODS:We carried out a prospective observational study with a total of 1637 apparently healthy Japanese men ...AIM:To clarify whether nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.METHODS:We carried out a prospective observational study with a total of 1637 apparently healthy Japanese men and women who were recruited from a health check-up program.NAFLD was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography.The metabolic syndrome(MS)was defined according to the modified National Cholesterol Education Program(NCEP)ATP Ⅲ criteria.Five years after the baseline evaluations,the incidence of cardiovascular disease was assessed by a self-administered questionnaire.RESULTS:Among 1221 participants available for outcome analyses,the incidence of cardiovascular disease was higher in 231 subjects with NAFLD at baseline(5 coronary heart disease,6 ischemic stroke,and 1 cerebral hemorrhage)than 990 subjects without NAFLD(3 coronary heart disease,6 ischemic stroke,and 1 cerebral hemorrhage).Multivariate analyses indicated that NAFLD was a predictor of cardiovascular disease independent of conventional risk factors(odds ratio 4.12,95% CI,1.58 to 10.75,P = 0.004).MS was alsoindependently associated with cardiovascular events.But simultaneous inclusion of NAFLD and MS in a multivariate model revealed that NAFLD but not MS retained a statistically significant correlation with cardiovascular disease.CONCLUSION:Although both of them were predictors of cardiovascular disease,NAFLD but not MS retained a statistically significant correlation with cardiovascular disease in a multivariate model.NAFLD is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease and may play a central role in the cardiovascular risk of MS.展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive human cancer with increasing incidence worldwide.Multiple efforts have been made to explore pharmaceutical therapies to treat HCC,such as targeted tyrosine kinase inhibito...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive human cancer with increasing incidence worldwide.Multiple efforts have been made to explore pharmaceutical therapies to treat HCC,such as targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors,immune based therapies and combination of chemotherapy.However,limitations exist in current strategies including chemoresistance for instance.Tumor initiation and progression is driven by reprogramming of metabolism,in particular during HCC development.Recently,metabolic associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),a reappraisal of new nomenclature for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),indicates growing appreciation of metabolism in the pathogenesis of liver disease,including HCC,thereby suggesting new strategies by targeting abnormal metabolism for HCC treatment.In this review,we introduce directions by highlighting the metabolic targets in glucose,fatty acid,amino acid and glutamine metabolism,which are suitable for HCC pharmaceutical intervention.We also summarize and discuss current pharmaceutical agents and studies targeting deregulated metabolism during HCC treatment.Furthermore,opportunities and challenges in the discovery and development of HCC therapy targeting metabolism are discussed.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the relationship between metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 2 374 subjects who received health examination in our hospital from Jan. 2004 to Dec. 2006 were enrolled in ...Objective: To investigate the relationship between metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 2 374 subjects who received health examination in our hospital from Jan. 2004 to Dec. 2006 were enrolled in our study. Hyperuricemia is defined as ≥7 mg/dl (in men) or ≥6.0 mg/dl (in women). Metabolic syndrome was defined using AHA/NHLBI (American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) criteria. Results: (1) The overall prevalence of hyperuricemia was 13.10%. The condition was more common in men than in women (19.07% vs 3.42%). (2) Among men, uric acid concentration is statistically significantly positively correlated with waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglyceride. Uric acid is negatively correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Uric acid concentration is most strongly correlated with serum triglyceride (r=0.379) and waist circumference (r=0.297). Among women, statistically significant positive correlations were noted for the serum uric acid concentrations with waist circumference, triglyceride and fasting plasma glucose. Serum triglyceride (r=0.329) and waist circumference (r=0.234) are most strongly correlated with uric acid concentrations. (3) Men with hyperuricemia had a 1.634-fold increased risk of metabolic syndrome as compared with those without hyperuricemia odds ratio (OR)=1.634, P=0.000. Women with hyperuricemia had a 1.626-fold increased risk of metabolic syndrome (OR=1.626, P=0.000) as compared with those without hyperuricemia. Conclusion: Hyperuricemia is prevalent among Chinese population. Additionally, serum uric acid is positively associated with metabolic syndrome.展开更多
Glucose and fatty acids are the major sources of energy for human body. Cholesterol, the most abundant sterol in mammals, is a key component of cell membranes although it does not generate ATP. The metabolisms of gluc...Glucose and fatty acids are the major sources of energy for human body. Cholesterol, the most abundant sterol in mammals, is a key component of cell membranes although it does not generate ATP. The metabolisms of glucose, fatty acids and cholesterol are often intertwined and regulated. For example, glucose can be converted to fatty acids and cholesterol through de novo lipid biosynthesis pathways. Excessive lipids are secreted in lipoproteins or stored in lipid droplets. The metabolites of glucose and lipids are dynamically transported intercellularly and intracellularly, and then converted to other molecules in specific compartments. The disorders of glucose and lipid metabolism result in severe diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and fatty liver. This review summarizes the major metabolic aspects of glucose and lipid, and their regulations in the context of physiology and diseases.展开更多
Carotenoids are indispensable to plants and critical in human diets. Plastids are the organelles for carotenoid biosynthesis and storage in plant cells. They exist in various types, which include proplastids, etioplas...Carotenoids are indispensable to plants and critical in human diets. Plastids are the organelles for carotenoid biosynthesis and storage in plant cells. They exist in various types, which include proplastids, etioplasts, chloroplasts, amyloplasts, and chromoplasts. These plastids have dramatic differences in their capacity to synthesize and sequester carotenoids. Clearly, plastids play a central role in governing carotenogenic activity, carotenoid stability, and pigment diversity. Understanding of carotenoid metabolism and accumulation in various plastids expands our view on the multifaceted regulation of carotenogenesis and facilitates our efforts toward developing nutrient-enriched food crops. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of various types of plastids on carotenoid biosynthesis and accumulation, and discuss recent advances in our understanding of the regulatory control of carotenogenesis and metabolic engineering of carotenoids in light of plastid types in plants.展开更多
文摘Relation between the gut microbiota and human health is being increasingly recognised. It is now well established that a healthy gut flora is largely responsible for overall health of the host. The normal human gut microbiota comprises of two major phyla, namely Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Though the gut microbiota in an infant appears haphazard, it starts resembling the adult flora by the age of 3 years. Nevertheless, there exist temporal and spatial variations in the microbial distribution from esophagus to the rectum all along the individual's life span. Developments in genome sequencing technologies and bioinformatics have now enabled scientists to study these microorganisms and their function and microbehost interactions in an elaborate manner both in health and disease. The normal gut microbiota imparts specific function in host nutrient metabolism, xenobiotic and drug metabolism, maintenance of structural integrity of the gut mucosal barrier, immunomodulation, and protection against pathogens. Several factors play a role in shaping the normal gut microbiota. They include(1) the mode of delivery(vaginal or caesarean);(2) diet during infancy(breast milk or formula feeds) and adulthood(vegan based or meat based); and(3) use of antibiotics or antibiotic like molecules that are derived from the environment or the gut commensal community. A major concern of antibiotic use is the long-term alteration of the normal healthy gut microbiota and horizontal transfer of resistance genes that could result in reservoir of organisms with a multidrug resistant gene pool.
基金the National High Technology R&D Program of China (863 Program)，the Major State Basic Research Development Program of China (973 Program)，by the National Natural Science Foundation of China，by the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University of Ministry of Education in China (NCET-09-0401).A patent for this method has been approved by the State Intellectual Property Office of China
文摘Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry （LC-MS）-based metabolomics has been facilitated by the con- struction of MSz spectral tag （MS2T） library from the total scan ESI MS/MS data, and the development of widely targeted metabolomics method using MS/MS data gathered from authentic standards. In this report, a novel strategy called step- wise multiple ion monitoring-enhanced product ions （stepwise MIM-EPI） was developed to construct the MS2T library, in which stepwise MIM was used as survey scans to trigger the acquisition of EPI. A total number of 698 （almost） non- redundant metabolites with MS2 spectra were obtained, of which 135 metabolites were identified/annotated. Integrating the data gathered from our MS2T library and other available multiple reaction monitoring （MRM） information, a widely targeted metabolomics method was developed to quantify 277 metabolites, including some phytohormones. Evaluation of the dehydration responses and natural variations of these metabolites in rice leaf not only suggested the coordinated regulation of abscisic acid （ABA） with metabolites such as serotonin derivative（s）, polyamine conjugates under drought stress, but also revealed some C-glycosylated flavones as the potential markers for the discrimination of indica and japonica rice subspecies. The new MS2T library construction and widely targeted metabolomics strategy could be used as a tool for rice functional genomics.
基金This study was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2018YFC1313304 and 2018YFC1313300)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82073112,82022052 and 81871951).
文摘Altered metabolism is a hallmark of cancer,and the reprogramming of energy metabolism has historically been considered a general phenomenon of tumors.It is well recognized that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)regulate energy metabolism in cancer.However,lncRNA-mediated posttranslational modifications and metabolic reprogramming are unclear at present.In this review,we summarized the current understanding of the interactions between the alterations in cancer-associated energy metabolism and the lncRNA-mediated posttranslational modifications of metabolic enzymes,transcription factors,and other proteins involved in metabolic pathways.In addition,we discuss the mechanisms through which these interactions contribute to tumor initiation and progression,and the key roles and clinical significance of functional lncRNAs.We believe that an in-depth understanding of lncRNA-mediated cancer metabolic reprogramming can help to identify cellular vulnerabilities that can be exploited for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
文摘Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection is very common and affects approximately half of the world population. It causes gastric diseases, but some authors have reported an association of H. pylori infection with other systemic manifestations beginning in 1994. The list of potential effects of H. pylori outside the stomach includes a number of extragastric manifestations and we focused on neurological, dermatological, hematologic, ocular, cardiovascular, metabolic, allergic, and hepatobiliary diseases. This review discusses these important reported manifestations that are not related to the gastrointestinal tract.
基金supported by the grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China (31788103,31630052)the Chinese Academy of Sciences (QYZDY-SSWSMC023, XDB27010104, 159231KYSB20200008)+2 种基金the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2016YFD0100902)the Shanghai Science and Technology Development(18JC1415000)the support of the SA-SIBS scholarship program。
文摘Phenylpropanoid metabolism is one of the most important metabolisms in plants, yielding more than 8,000 metabolites contributing to plant development and plant-environment interplay.Phenylpropanoid metabolism materialized during the evolution of early freshwater algae that were initiating terrestrialization and land plants have evolved multiple branches of this pathway, which give rise to metabolites including lignin, flavonoids, lignans, phenylpropanoid esters, hydroxycinnamic acid amides, and sporopollenin.Recent studies have revealed that many factors participate in the regulation of phenylpropanoid metabolism, and modulate phenylpropanoid homeostasis when plants undergo successive developmental processes and are subjected to stressful environments. In this review, we summarize recent progress on elucidating the contribution of phenylpropanoid metabolism to the coordination of plant development and plant–environment interaction, and metabolic flux redirection among diverse metabolic routes. In addition, our review focuses on the regulation of phenylpropanoid metabolism at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, post-translational,and epigenetic levels, and in response to phytohormones and biotic and abiotic stresses.
文摘Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has, although it is a very common disorder, only relatively recently gained broader interest among physicians and scientists. Fatty liver has been documented in up to 10 to 15 percent of normal individuals and 70 to 80 percent of obese individuals. Although the pathophysiology of NAFLD is still subject to intensive research, several players and mechanisms have been suggested based on the substantial evidence. Excessive hepatocyte triglyceride accumulation resulting from insulin resistance is the first step in the proposed 'two hit' model of the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Oxidative stress resulting from mitochondrial fatty acids oxidation, NF-κB-dependent inflammatory cytokine expression and adipocytokines are all considered to be the potential factors causing second hits which lead to hepatocyte injury, inflammation and fibrosis. Although it was initially believed that NAFLD is a completely benign disorder, histologic follow-up studies have showed that fibrosis progression occurs in about a third of patients. A small number of patients with NAFLD eventually ends up with end-stage liver disease and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Although liver biopsy is currently the only way to confirm the NAFLD diagnosis and distinguish between fatty liver alone and NASH, no guidelines or firm recommendations can still be made as for when and in whom it is necessary. Increased physical activity, gradual weight reduction and in selected cases bariatric surgery remain the mainstay of NAFLD therapy. Studies with pharmacologic agents are showing promising results, but available data are still insufficient to make specific recommendations; their use therefore remains highly individual.
基金supported by the National Key R&D program of China(No.2018YFD0400203)the Strategic Biological Resources Service Network programme of CAS and Key Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.KFZD-SW-219)the Youth Innovation Promotion Association of CAS(No.2014074)
文摘Metabolic syndrome characterized by obesity, hyperglycemia and liver steatosis is becoming prevalent all over the world. Herein, a water insoluble polysaccharide(WIP) was isolated and identified from the sclerotium of Poria cocos, a widely used Traditional Chinese Medicine. WIP was confirmed to be a(1-3)-β-D-glucan with an average Mw of 4.486 × 10~6 Da by NMR and SEC-RI-MALLS analyses. Furthermore, oral treatment with WIP from P. cocos significantly improved glucose and lipid metabolism and alleviated hepatic steatosis in ob/ob mice. 16 S DNA sequencing analysis of cecum content from WIP-treated mice indicated the increase of butyrate-producing bacteria Lachnospiracea, Clostridium. It was also observed that WIP treatment elevated the level of butyrate in gut, improved the gut mucosal integrity and activated the intestinal PPAR-γ pathway. Fecal transplantation experiments definitely confirmed the causative role of gut microbiota in mediating the benefits of WIP. It is the first report that the water insoluble polysaccharide from the sclerotium of P. cocos modulates gut microbiota to improve hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Thereby, WIP from P. cocos, as a prebiotic, has the potential for the prevention or cure of metabolic diseases and may elucidate new mechanism for the efficacies of this traditional herbal medicine on the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism.
基金This study was funded by Ministry of Health of Science and Technology (2001 DEA 30035,2002D2A40022,2003DIA6N008), China.
文摘Objective To estimate the relative risks of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndromes among overweight and obese Chinese children compared with their normal weight counterparts. Methods Overweight and obesity were defined by age- and sex-specific BMI classification reference for Chinese children and adolescents. Pediatric metabolic syndrome （MetS） and each risk factor for MetS were defined using the criteria for US adolescents. Definition of hyper-TC, LDL, and dyslipidemia for adults was applied as well. General linear model factor analysis and chi-square test were used to compare the difference in metabolic indicators among normal weight, overweight, and obese groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odds ratio of metabolic abnormalities between obesity, overweight, and normal weight children, after adjustment for living area, family economic level, age, sex, and daily exercise time and TV watching time, as well as different dietary indices in the model. Results Significant increases in blood lipids, glucose, and blood pressure were found among overweight and obese children as compared with their counterparts with normal weight. By applying WGOC-recommended BMI classification, the risks for hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL and dyslipidemia among overweight children were 1.9, 1.4, and 1.5 times, and was 3.3, 1.5, and 1.8 times among obese groups compared to their counterparts with normal weight after adjustment for age, sex, region, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and dietary intakes. The overweight and obese children （15-17.9 years） had a high-risk of developing hypertension, which was 2.3 and 2.9 times higher than their counterparts with normal weight. Above 90% obese adolescents had abdominal obesity, while less than 1% normal weight ones had abdominal obesity. No obese adolescents were free from any risk factors for MetS, while 36.9% of normal weight adolescents were from the risk factors. 83.3% obese boys and all obese girls had me
基金supported by CAS/JIC and Centre of Excellence for Plant and Microbial Sciences (CEPAMS) joint foundationQZ and CM were supported by the Institute Strategic Program Understanding and Exploiting Plant and Microbial Secondary Metabolism (BB/J004596/1) from the BBSRC to JICQZ and XYC were also supported by the Special Fund for Shanghai Landscaping Administration Bureau Program (F132424, F112418 and G152421)
文摘Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, or Chinese skullcap, has been widely used as a medicinal plant in China for thousands of years, where the preparation from its roots is called Huang-Qin. It has been applied in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, hypertension, hemorrhaging, insomnia,inflammation and respiratory infections. Flavones such as baicalin, wogonoside and their aglycones baicalein wogonin are the major bioactive compounds extracted from the root of S. baicalensis. These flavones have been reported to have various pharmacological functions, including anti-cancer,hepatoprotection, antibacterial and antiviral, antioxidant,anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects. In this review,we focus on clinical applications and the pharmacological properties of the medicinal plant and the flavones extracted from it. We also describe biotechnological and metabolic methods that have been used to elucidate the biosynthetic pathways of the bioactive compounds in Scutellaria.
基金This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2018YFA0800700 and 2018YFC1003200)and the National Natural Science Foundation of the P.R.of China(No.91857115,31925021,and 81921001).
文摘It is well known that an unhealthy lifestyle is a major risk factor for metabolic diseases,while in recent years,accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome and its metabolites also play a crucial role in the onset and development of many metabolic diseases,including obesity,type 2 diabetes,nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,cardiovascular disease and so on.Numerous microorganisms dwell in the gastrointestinal tract,which is a key interface for energy acquisition and can metabolize dietary nutrients into many bioactive substances,thus acting as a link between the gut microbiome and its host.The gut microbiome is shaped by host genetics,immune responses and dietary factors.The metabolic and immune potential of the gut microbiome determines its significance in host health and diseases.Therefore,targeting the gut microbiome and relevant metabolic pathways would be effective therapeutic treatments for many metabolic diseases in the near future.This review will summarize information about the role of the gut microbiome in organism metabolism and the relationship between gut microbiome-derived metabolites and the pathogenesis of many metabolic diseases.Furthermore,recent advances in improving metabolic diseases by regulating the gut microbiome will be discussed.
基金This work was supported by grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China （31000698）, the Ministry of Agriculture of China （2016ZX08010001 2016ZX08009002+1 种基金 2014ZX08010001）, and Guangdong Province Public Interest Research and Capacity Building Special Fund （2015B020201002 2016A020210084）.
文摘Anthocyanins have high antioxidant activities, and engineering of anthocyanin biosynthesis in staple crops, such as rice （Oryza sativa L.）, could provide health-promoting foods for improving human health. However, engineering metabolic pathways for biofortification remains difficult, and previous attempts to engineer anthocyanin production in rice endosperm failed because of the sophisticated genetic regulatory network of its biosynthetic pathway. In this study, we developed a high-efficiency vector system for transgene stacking and used it to engineer anthocyanin biosynthesis in rice endosperm. We made a construct containing eight anthocyanin-related genes （two regulatory genes from maize and six structural genes from Coleus） driven by the endosperm-specific promoters,plus a selectable marker and a gene for marker excision. Transformation of rice with this construct generated a novel biofortified germplasm ＂Purple Endosperm Rice＂ （called ＂Zijingmi＂ in Chinese）, which has high anthocyanin contents and antioxidant activity in the endosperm. This anthocyanin production results from expression of the transgenes and the resulting activation （or enhancement） of expression of 13 endogenous anthocyanin biosynthesis genes that are silenced or expressed at low levels in wild-type rice endosperm. This study provides an efficient, versatile toolkit for transgene stacking and demonstrates its use for successful engineering of a sophisticated biological pathway, suggesting the potential utility of this toolkit for synthetic biology and improvement of agronomic traits in plants.
文摘Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) encompasses the simple steatosis to more progressive steatosis with associated hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and in some cases hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is a growing epidemic, not only in the United States, but worldwide in part due to obesity and insulin resistance leading to liver accumulation of triglycerides and free fatty acids. Numerous risk factors for the development of NAFLD have been espoused with most having some form of metabolic derangement or insulin resistance at the core of its pathophysiology. NAFLD patients are at increased risk of liver-related as well as cardiovascular mortality, and NAFLD is rapidly becoming the leading indication for liver transplantation. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis, but the development of noninvasive advanced imaging, biochemical and genetic tests will no doubt provide future clinicians with a great deal of information and opportunity for enhanced understanding of the pathogenesis and targeted treatment. As it currently stands several medications/supplements are being used in the treatment of NAFLD; however, none seem to be the "magic bullet" in curtailing this growing problem yet. In this review we summarized the current knowledge of NAFLD epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, pathogenesis, pathologic changes, natural history, and treatment in order to aid in further understanding this disease and better managing NAFLD patients.
文摘Sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary choices are leading to a weight gain epidemic in westernized countries, subsequently increasing the risk for developing the metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is estimated to affect approximate 30% of the general US population and is considered the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. Recent findings linking the components of the metabolic syndrome with NAFLD and the progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) will be reviewed; in particular, the role of visceral adipose tissue, insulin resistance, and adipocytokines in the exacerbation of these conditions. While no therapy has been proven effective for treating NAFLD/NASH, common recommendations will be discussed.
文摘Artemisia annua, commonly known as sweet wormwood or Qinghao, is a shrub native to China and has long been used for medicinal purposes. A. annua is now cultivated globally as the only natural source of a potent anti-malarial compound, artemisinin. Here, we report a high-quality draft assembly of the 1.74-gigabase genome of A. annua, which is highly heterozygous, rich in repetitive sequences, and contains 63 226 protein-coding genes, one of the largest numbers among the sequenced plant species. We found that, as one of a few sequenced genomes in the Asteraceae, the A. annua genome contains a large number of genes specific to this large angiosperm clade. Notably, the expansion and functional diversification of genes encoding enzymes involved in terpene biosynthesis are consistent with the evolution of the artemi- sinin biosynthetic pathway. We further revealed by transcriptome profiling that A. annua has evolved the sophisticated transcriptional regulatory networks underlying artemisinin biosynthesis. Based on compre- hensive genomic and transcriptomic analyses we generated transgenic A. annua lines producing high levels of artemisinin, which are now ready for large-scale production and thereby will help meet the chal- lenge of increasing global demand of artemisinin.
文摘Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver of a patient without a history of alcohol abuse.Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH),a severe form of NAFLD,can progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.NAFLD is regarded as a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and incidence has been increasing worldwide in line with the increased prevalence of obesity,type 2 diabetes,and hyperlipemia.Animal models of NAFLD/NASH give crucial information,not only in elucidating pathogenesis of NAFLD/NASH but also in examining therapeutic effects of various agents.An ideal model of NAFLD/NASH should correctly reflect both hepatic histopathology and pathophysiology of human NAFLD/NASH.Animal models of NAFLD/NASH are divided into genetic,dietary,and combination models.In this paper,we review commonly used animal models of NAFLD/NASH referring to their advantages and disadvantages.
基金Supported by a grant from the Gifu Medical Association
文摘AIM:To clarify whether nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.METHODS:We carried out a prospective observational study with a total of 1637 apparently healthy Japanese men and women who were recruited from a health check-up program.NAFLD was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography.The metabolic syndrome(MS)was defined according to the modified National Cholesterol Education Program(NCEP)ATP Ⅲ criteria.Five years after the baseline evaluations,the incidence of cardiovascular disease was assessed by a self-administered questionnaire.RESULTS:Among 1221 participants available for outcome analyses,the incidence of cardiovascular disease was higher in 231 subjects with NAFLD at baseline(5 coronary heart disease,6 ischemic stroke,and 1 cerebral hemorrhage)than 990 subjects without NAFLD(3 coronary heart disease,6 ischemic stroke,and 1 cerebral hemorrhage).Multivariate analyses indicated that NAFLD was a predictor of cardiovascular disease independent of conventional risk factors(odds ratio 4.12,95% CI,1.58 to 10.75,P = 0.004).MS was alsoindependently associated with cardiovascular events.But simultaneous inclusion of NAFLD and MS in a multivariate model revealed that NAFLD but not MS retained a statistically significant correlation with cardiovascular disease.CONCLUSION:Although both of them were predictors of cardiovascular disease,NAFLD but not MS retained a statistically significant correlation with cardiovascular disease in a multivariate model.NAFLD is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease and may play a central role in the cardiovascular risk of MS.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82070883)Scientific Research Foundation for high-level faculty,China Pharmaceutical University(Nanjing,China)。
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive human cancer with increasing incidence worldwide.Multiple efforts have been made to explore pharmaceutical therapies to treat HCC,such as targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors,immune based therapies and combination of chemotherapy.However,limitations exist in current strategies including chemoresistance for instance.Tumor initiation and progression is driven by reprogramming of metabolism,in particular during HCC development.Recently,metabolic associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),a reappraisal of new nomenclature for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),indicates growing appreciation of metabolism in the pathogenesis of liver disease,including HCC,thereby suggesting new strategies by targeting abnormal metabolism for HCC treatment.In this review,we introduce directions by highlighting the metabolic targets in glucose,fatty acid,amino acid and glutamine metabolism,which are suitable for HCC pharmaceutical intervention.We also summarize and discuss current pharmaceutical agents and studies targeting deregulated metabolism during HCC treatment.Furthermore,opportunities and challenges in the discovery and development of HCC therapy targeting metabolism are discussed.
基金Project supported by the Health Promotion Center in Sir Run RunShaw Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, China
文摘Objective: To investigate the relationship between metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 2 374 subjects who received health examination in our hospital from Jan. 2004 to Dec. 2006 were enrolled in our study. Hyperuricemia is defined as ≥7 mg/dl (in men) or ≥6.0 mg/dl (in women). Metabolic syndrome was defined using AHA/NHLBI (American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) criteria. Results: (1) The overall prevalence of hyperuricemia was 13.10%. The condition was more common in men than in women (19.07% vs 3.42%). (2) Among men, uric acid concentration is statistically significantly positively correlated with waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglyceride. Uric acid is negatively correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Uric acid concentration is most strongly correlated with serum triglyceride (r=0.379) and waist circumference (r=0.297). Among women, statistically significant positive correlations were noted for the serum uric acid concentrations with waist circumference, triglyceride and fasting plasma glucose. Serum triglyceride (r=0.329) and waist circumference (r=0.234) are most strongly correlated with uric acid concentrations. (3) Men with hyperuricemia had a 1.634-fold increased risk of metabolic syndrome as compared with those without hyperuricemia odds ratio (OR)=1.634, P=0.000. Women with hyperuricemia had a 1.626-fold increased risk of metabolic syndrome (OR=1.626, P=0.000) as compared with those without hyperuricemia. Conclusion: Hyperuricemia is prevalent among Chinese population. Additionally, serum uric acid is positively associated with metabolic syndrome.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31521062,31570807,31571213,31625014,31621063,31630019,31830040,91857000 and 91857108)the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2016YFA0500100,2016YFC1304803,2017YFA0503404 and 2018YFA0506900)
文摘Glucose and fatty acids are the major sources of energy for human body. Cholesterol, the most abundant sterol in mammals, is a key component of cell membranes although it does not generate ATP. The metabolisms of glucose, fatty acids and cholesterol are often intertwined and regulated. For example, glucose can be converted to fatty acids and cholesterol through de novo lipid biosynthesis pathways. Excessive lipids are secreted in lipoproteins or stored in lipid droplets. The metabolites of glucose and lipids are dynamically transported intercellularly and intracellularly, and then converted to other molecules in specific compartments. The disorders of glucose and lipid metabolism result in severe diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and fatty liver. This review summarizes the major metabolic aspects of glucose and lipid, and their regulations in the context of physiology and diseases.
文摘Carotenoids are indispensable to plants and critical in human diets. Plastids are the organelles for carotenoid biosynthesis and storage in plant cells. They exist in various types, which include proplastids, etioplasts, chloroplasts, amyloplasts, and chromoplasts. These plastids have dramatic differences in their capacity to synthesize and sequester carotenoids. Clearly, plastids play a central role in governing carotenogenic activity, carotenoid stability, and pigment diversity. Understanding of carotenoid metabolism and accumulation in various plastids expands our view on the multifaceted regulation of carotenogenesis and facilitates our efforts toward developing nutrient-enriched food crops. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of various types of plastids on carotenoid biosynthesis and accumulation, and discuss recent advances in our understanding of the regulatory control of carotenogenesis and metabolic engineering of carotenoids in light of plastid types in plants.
