Abstract: Background/Objectives: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and exercise-induced immune perturbations are common in adults and may adversely affect quality of life, productivity, and physical performance. Immunoglobulin Y (IgY), a food-derived antibody with broad antimicrobial activity, has demonstrated immunomodulatory potential in preclinical and limited clinical studies. This study evaluated the effects of a multi-pathogen-specific IgY supplement (Muno-IgY) on respiratory health, immune and inflammatory markers, exercise-induced physiological stress, and gut microbiome composition in healthy adults. Methods: in this 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 28 healthy adults with a history of URTI were randomly allocated to receive Muno-IgY or placebo. URTI incidence, duration, and severity were recorded daily. Serum immune and inflammatory biomarkers were assessed longitudinally and in response to a standardized exercise challenge. Gut microbiome composition was analyzed using shotgun metagenomic sequencing at baseline and week 12. Safety and tolerability were assessed throughout the study. Results: URTI incidence was numerically lower in the Muno-IgY group compared with placebo (14.3% vs. 35.7%), with shorter average duration and fewer missed workdays (p > 0.05). Following an acute exercise challenge, Muno-IgY supplementation resulted in a significant increase in serum IgA at 24 h post-exercise (p = 0.022) and a significantly greater reduction in lactate dehydrogenase at 1 h post-exercise compared with placebo (p < 0.0001). Exploratory gut microbiome analyses revealed favorable directional shifts in microbial composition. Conclusions: In this exploratory pilot study, Muno-IgY supplementation was safe and associated with significant improvements in selected markers of exercise-induced immune response and muscle damage, alongside favourable trends in respiratory health and gut microbiome composition. These findings support further evaluation of Muno-IgY in larger, adequately powered clinical trials.

Abstract: DNA-based cancer vaccines represent a safe and promising immunotherapeutic strategy, but their clinical efficacy is often limited by weak immunogenicity, primarily due to inefficient antigen cross-presentation. To overcome this challenge, the MHC class I trafficking domain (MITD) can be fused to tumor antigens to enhance their intracellular routing in dendritic cells (DCs), thereby promoting the efficiency of cross-presentation. In addition, incorporation of CD4⁺ T cell epitopes, such as PADRE or P2P16, can robustly activate CD4⁺ T cells, further amplifying antitumor immunity. Thus, combining MITD with CD4⁺ epitopes is expected to synergistically improve DNA vaccine potency. Mesothelin (MSLN), a tumor-associated antigen highly expressed in pancreatic cancer, was selected as the target in this study. We designed MSLN-targeted DNA vaccines incorporating MITD together with either PADRE or P2P16. In a Panc02 murine model, the MITD–PADRE construct, a novel design, elicited stronger immune responses and more effective antitumor activity compared to other formulations. To further counteract immunosuppression, we combined the vaccine with gemcitabine, which enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Together, these findings demonstrate that integrating PADRE with MITD in MSLN-targeted DNA vaccines offers a promising combinatorial strategy for advancing pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.

Abstract:

This study aimed to evaluate how dietary yeast cell wall (YCW) supplementation in the starter feed affects ruminal fermentation parameters, microbial community composition, and metabolite profiles in early-weaned Simmental calves. Twenty-four newborn Simmental heifer calves (initial body weight: 37.53 ± 2.50 kg) were randomly assigned based on birth date sequence into the experimental group and the control group (12 calves per group). Calves in the experimental group (YCW) received a daily supplement of 5 g/head/day of yeast cell wall in the starter diet, whereas those in the control group (CON) received no supplementation. The experimental period lasted for 100 days, with weaning conducted at 70 days of age. On day 70, rumen fluid samples were randomly collected from six calves per group for analysis of rumen fermentation parameters, microbial community composition, and metabolomic profiles. (1) YCW supplementation significantly increased ruminal butyrate concentration and the relative abundance of the genus Ruminococcus (p < 0.05); (2) Metabolomic analysis identified 43 differential metabolites (20 upregulated and 23 downregulated), with nucleotide metabolism–related compounds such as guanylic acid and deoxycytidine monophosphate being prominently enriched (p < 0.05); (3) Spearman correlation analysis further revealed positive associations between Ruminococcus and both butyrate levels and selected upregulated metabolites, including guanylic acid (p < 0.05). Dietary yeast cell wall supplementation enhanced ruminal fermentation in early-weaned Simmental calves by increasing butyrate concentration and altering the ruminal microbiota and metabolome. Enrichment of Ruminococcus and nucleotide-associated metabolites, with positive correlations to butyrate, indicates a coordinated shift in the microbiota–metabolite axis. These findings support YCW as an effective nutritional strategy to promote rumen development and health during the early weaning period.

Abstract: The complications that arise from pregnancy such as preterm birth (PTB), preeclampsia, and neonatal sepsis continue to pose significant threats to maternal and neonatal health worldwide. Early detection and treatment are crucial in reducing the morbidity and mortality of the complications. The human microbiome, particularly during the perinatal period, has also been seen as a critical regulator of immune and metabolic health, influencing both maternal and infant outcomes. This narrative current review responds to the application of microbiome signatures as predictors for maternal and neonatal health biomarkers. We summarize new evidence linking dysbiosis of both maternal gut and vaginal microbiomes with PTB, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We further discuss how the neonatal microbiome affects immune development and what is linked to sepsis risk. The review also briefly addresses the crossroads of multi-omics data to enhance precision medicine, the shortcomings in designing adequately powered clinical trials, and the standardization and regulatory hurdles confronting the microbiome field.As much as the potential of microbiome signatures for predictive diagnostics in maternal and neonatal health is high, there are daunting challenges to overcome. They include the dynamic nature of the neonatal microbiome, the nature of multi-omics data complexity, and invoking standardized methodologies and robust clinical trials. Nevertheless, the incorporation of microbiome-based biomarkers into medicine has the potential to move towards more personalized, non-invasive, and effective management of maternal and neonatal health.

Abstract: Objectives To summarize evidence on the role of nutrition in regulating tissue crosstalk and to identify key knowledge gaps relevant to metabolic health and disease. Background Tissues continuously communicate to maintain metabolic balance. This inter-organ communication, referred to as tissue crosstalk, enables organs such as the liver, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, gut, and immune system to coordinate responses to nutritional and environmental signals. Disruption of these pathways is increasingly recognized as a central feature of metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Nutrition plays a critical role in shaping tissue crosstalk beyond its role as a source of energy and building blocks. Dietary signals transmitted through hormones, cytokines, metabolites, and other mediators are strongly influenced by macronutrient quality and food matrix characteristics, thereby modifying metabolic and inflammatory signaling across organs. Methods This narrative review synthesizes evidence from human and experimental studies examining how nutrition regulates tissue crosstalk, with emphasis on macronutrient quality and gut microbiota–mediated mechanisms. Results The gut microbiota represents a key link between diet and systemic metabolic regulation. Dietary patterns influence microbial composition and activity, leading to the production of metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, bile acid derivatives, and tryptophan-related2compounds. These microbial products act as signaling molecules that affect distant tissues and support coordinated metabolic responses. Evidence suggests that whole foods and food matrices may modulate these interactions more effectively than isolated nutrients or supplements. Conclusion Macronutrient quality and diet–microbiota interactions emerge as central regulators of inter- organ communication. Important gaps remain regarding the context-dependent effects of dietary protein quality and the influence of plant-based dietary patterns under conditions of positive energy balance. Addressing these gaps may help inform nutritional strategies aimed at supporting metabolic health beyond weight loss alone.

Abstract: This study employed soybean meal as the substrate and systematically optimized its enzymatic hydrolysis process using a combination of single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. A predictive model based on the Box–Behnken design was established to improve protein hydrolysis efficiency and increase the yield of functional products. The optimal conditions identified were 1.45% enzyme addition, a reaction time of 62 h, a temperature of 36.5 °C, and a moisture content of 35%. Under these conditions, the small-peptide content increased by 16.33-fold. Structural analyses showed that enzymatic treatment markedly disrupted the compact surface of soybean meal, converting it into a loose and porous matrix. In addition, enzymolysis altered the protein secondary structure from ordered α-helices and folded conformations to more disordered and flexible forms, thereby improving the molecular-weight distribution. Composition analyses demonstrated a 114.2% increase in total free amino acids, including essential amino acids. Moreover, DPPH radical-scavenging activity increased from 18.37% to 57.99%. Overall, this study optimized the enzymatic hydrolysis conditions for soybean meal and provides valuable insights for the development of high-value protein-peptide products.

Abstract: Central nervous system (CNS) disorders constitute a significant global health challenge; however, the development of therapeutic agents is considerably impeded by the difficulty in delivering effective concentrations within the brain. This comprehensive review delineates the current landscape of computational modeling techniques employed to address the formidable challenges associated with CNS drug delivery, with a particular emphasis on the anatomical barriers and physiological transport mechanisms pertinent to major neurological diseases. We categorize modeling approaches ranging from the atomistic scale, including molecular dynamics simulations of drug-blood-brain barrier (BBB) interactions, to macroscopic continuum and Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models that elucidate systemic distribution and overall brain exposure. We critically assess these models concerning established delivery routes, such as intranasal and intrathecal administration, as well as emerging methods, including focused ultrasound-mediated BBB opening and targeted nanoparticle delivery. This review underscores the growing importance of integrating complex physiological phenomena, such as glymphatic flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics, into predictive models. Finally, we explore the emerging opportunities involving multiscale digital twins of the CNS that integrate molecular interactions, vascular hemodynamics, CSF and perivascular flow, and parenchymal transport within patient-specific anatomical geometries. The role of machine learning and surrogate modeling in expediting the prediction of drug transport parameters and optimizing delivery strategies is also examined. By providing a structured overview of current computational tools, this review aims to guide researchers in the design of more robust computational platforms for CNS drug delivery.

Abstract:

The Brown Planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål.) (Hemiptera: Delphinidae), is one of the most destructive pests of rice. Its reproductive and developmental traits are influenced by various environmental and biological factors including endosymbiotic microorganisms. Arsenophonus, a widespread endosymbiotic bacterium of insects, can affect host fitness and metabolic processes. This study investigates the role of Arsenophonus in modulating the developmental and reproductive traits of N. lugens fed on transgenic cry30Fa1 rice (KF30-14) and its parent variety Minghui 86 (MH86). Life table analysis revealed that Arsenophonus infection (Ars⁺) increased the development time and reduced the reproductive capacity of N. lugens, especially those feeding on KF30-14. The first-instar nymphs in MH86 Ars⁺ (infected) exhibited slower development compared to MH86 Ars^- (uninfected). Similarly, the third and fourth-instar nymphs in KF30-14 Ars⁺ exhibited prolonged development time compared to KF30-14 Ars^-. In addition, KF30-14 Ars⁺ females had significantly reduced reproductive capacity, smaller ovarian tubules and lower relative expression levels of reproduction-related genes including Trehalose transporter (Tret), Vitellogenin (Vg) and Cytochrome P450 hydroxylase (cyp314a1), while Juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase (JHAMT) expression was upregulated. RNA sequencing and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes involved in lipid, amino acid, and vitamin metabolisms, with Long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase implicated as a key regulator of lipid metabolism and reproductive fitness. These results highlight the complex interactions between endosymbionts, host plants and pest biology, offering a solid foundation for sustainable approaches to control N. lugens in rice production systems.

Abstract: The root of the animal tree—whether sponges (Porifera) or ctenophores (Ctenophora) represent the earliest-branching lineage—remains a key unresolved question in evolutionary biology. This review synthesizes evidence from molecular sequences, rare genomic events, morphology, embryology, and paleontology. While molecular sequence data provide extensive coverage, they are susceptible to methodological errors and confounding evolutionary processes. Rare molecular events, such as chromosomal fusion-with-mixing, provide deeper resolution due to their low convergence potential and high irreversibility. Morphological and embryological traits, historically underestimated, benefit from advances in imaging and comparative gene expression. Fossil records, though direct, remain fragmentary and biased. To explain persistent conflicts among data types, we propose the concepts of a Resolution Limit and the Deep Basal Problem, which formalize why early divergences are so difficult to resolve. We introduce Highly Anti-Convergent and Highly Irreversible Marginal Instances (HACHIMIs) as a promising class of phylogenetic signals. In conclusion, while traditional datasets tend to support the Porifera-sister hypothesis, high-resolution data increasingly favor Ctenophora-sister. More broadly, this review argues that resolving deep phylogenies requires integrative methodological frameworks, not just more data.

Abstract: DNA methylation is a conserved regulatory mechanism of gene expression, genome stability, and development. DNA methylation modifications relate to effective induc-tion of defense responses for plant priming. In the Green Deal era, using plant defense inducers, compounds that activate defense and prime plants against imminent patho-gens attacks, is a safe and environmentally sustainable approach to support plants against pathogens. Here, salicylic acid loaded in chitosan nanoparticles, influenced hypomethylation on specific genomic regions that corresponded to defense-related genes, such as pectin lyases, defensins and leucine-rich repeat transmembrane protein kinases against the biotrophic fungal pathogen Podosphaera xanthii. A genomic region of the promoter of SKP1A, a core member of the SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, was found to be a significantly hypomethylated DMR. Examination of this DMR revealed the presence of salicylic acid-, auxin-, and defense-related cis-elements. Investigation of proteins associated with the above cis-elements showed significant expression upreg-ulation after salicylic acid application. Moreover, association of the identified DMR with transcriptomics showed significant enrichment of the salicylic acid pathway. Overall, these findings shed light on the epigenetic mechanisms that underly salicylic acid- re-lated defense priming in plants.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, of which the myocardial Infarction is the most prevalent. However, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood, but are tightly regulated by several cellular mechanisms, including long-non-coding. This study aimed to determine if MEG3 and ATF4 are involved in this pathology. Methods: A cross-section study was conducted at the Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, patients with first time diagnosis STEMI and hemodynamic stability were categorized into with and without major adverse cardiovascular events, the most important clinical and biochemical parameters were collected, which were analyzed and subsequently correlated with MEG3 and ATF4. Results: Forty-two patients with a median age of 54 years (86% men) were included and classified with and without MACE. The expression of MEG3 in MACE group and No MACE (0.8974, 0.4186–1.4131 vs. 1.2259, 0.5516–2.3964; p = 0.0342), and ATF4 in MACE group and No MACE (2.8950, 0.7559–4.3287 vs. 2.3498, 1.0821–3.6903; p = 0.0396), ROC curve MEG3 showed an AUC of 0.6490 (0.4760 to 0.8221; p = 0.0924), in contrast ATF4 demonstrated an AUC of 0.7127 (0.5862 to 0.8393; p = 0.0107). Finally, correlation analyses revealed MEG3 was associated with CK-MB (r = 0.3978, 0.0630 to 0.6520; p = 0.0219), and ATF4 was correlated cTnT (r = 0.3328, 0.0284 to 0.5810; p = 0.0335) and with LVEF (r = –0.4283, –0.6503 to –0.1390; p = 0.0052). Conclusions: The dysregulation of MEG3 and transcription factor ATF4 are involved in pathophysiological mechanisms.

Abstract: Phytopathogens threaten natural ecosystems and global food security. Horticultural trade is the main long-distance pathway causing the spread of these organisms and disease outbreaks worldwide. Most inspections for disease symptoms are conducted visually but this is insufficient given the large number of plants and the prevalence of asymptomatic infections. Therefore, there is increasing interest in the use of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and environmental DNA (eDNA) for plant health surveillance. Many studies have used these technologies to detect phytopathogens, but fewer have done so in horticultural settings. Furthermore, much work has focused on the molecular and bioinformatic approaches for this work, with relatively little attention given to sample collection. This systematic review therefore provides an overview of the available sampling methods and their target plant pathogens, with a particular focus on the utility of these sampling methods in horticultural nurseries. It highlights some striking gaps in the literature and opportunities for further research, for example, the detection of bacterial phytopathogens using eDNA has received little attention despite having considerable potential as a surveillance and/or diagnostic tool.

Abstract: Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges facing humanity today. Extensive oncological research has demonstrated that cancer progression is not solely driven by malignant cells but also by the tumor microenvironment (TME), which plays a crucial role in tumor development, immune evasion and metastasis. As a result, the TME has emerged as a promising therapeutic target. Nanotechnology has revolutionized cancer diagnosis and treatment, with metallic nanoparticles (mNPs) being extensively studied. However, their effects on the TME remain poorly understood. While some molecular pathways through which mNPs influence the TME have been identified, these findings likely represent only a small fraction of the underlying mechanisms, as analyzed in this review. Furthermore, a major challenge in studying these interactions is the lack of physiologically relevant models, as currently available cell culture and in vivo systems often fail to accurately replicate the complex and dynamic interactions of the TME. These limitations underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive research to establish the TME as a viable therapeutic target for treatment strategies involving NPs. Specifically, a deeper understanding of how mNPs interact with the TME at multiple levels, including immune modulations, stromal remodeling and metabolic reprogramming, is essential toward optimizing the therapeutic potential of mNPs in cancer care.

Abstract: Glutathione-S-Transferase T1 (GSTT1) and M1 (GSTM1) are key enzymes involved in phase II detoxification. Null genotypes resulting from gene deletions lead to a complete loss of enzymatic activity, reducing the capacity to metabolize xenobiotics and increasing the risk of adverse effects. Although genotype frequencies vary across ethnic groups, data from non-European populations, particularly Andean populations, remain limited. In this cross-sectional study, the frequency of GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes was determined in 206 individuals from Cusco and Junín. Genotyping was performed by PCR using genomic DNA extracted from peripheral blood. The frequency of the GSTM1 null genotype was 49.51%, whereas that of GSTT1 was 25.24%. Combined genotype analysis showed that 63.11% of participants carried at least one null genotype and 11.65% carried both null variants. No significant differences were observed between Cusco and Junín. Compared with previously reported data, these frequencies were similar to those observed in Peruvian coastal and several South American populations. At the intercontinental level, frequencies were comparable to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, but differed from Sub-Saharan Africa and Native American populations. This first molecular characterization of GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes in Andean populations provides a baseline for pharmacogenetics and precision medicine research in high-altitude settings.

Abstract: Raisin syrup sourdough is a popular traditional leavening method in Japan, yet its specific impact on bread aroma evolution and shelf-life stability remains scientifically underex-plored. This study characterized the fermentation dynamics and volatile profiles of raisin syrup sourdough bread compared to a commercial yeast control over a 3-day shelf life, utilizing comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS) and primary metabolite profiling of sugars, amino acids, and organic acids. The analysis resolved over 760 volatiles and revealed a fundamental kinetic divergence: while the yeast control exhibited a 24-hour metabolic lag, the raisin sourdough achieved rapid activation, establishing a higher initial volatile load immediately post-baking. Driven by Lactic Acid Bacteria dominance and extensive proteolysis, the sourdough’s acidic environment facilitated the retention of fruity esters and malty branched-chain aldehydes while effectively suppressing lipid oxidation markers like 9,17-Octadecadienal. Key aromatic markers, including Benzenepropanol and Octanoate , were significantly elevated and stabilized in the sourdough group. These findings demonstrate that raisin syrup fermentation generates a superior, stable aromatic profile, providing a scientific basis for optimizing clean-label artisan bread production in the Japanese market.

Abstract: The tumor microenvironment is a complex environment with interdependence on the relationship between host cells and pathogenic microorganism. This relationship either suppress or promote tumor progression. Pathogens such as H.pylori, F. nucleatum Epstein-Barr virus, Human Papilloma virus and Candida albicans contribute to tumorigenesis through diverse means such as immune checkpoint evasion, genomic instability, reactive oxygen species, viral integration and metabolic reprogramming that favors immunosuppression.Multiomics technologies are relevant in revealing unique host-pathogen signatures that correlate tumor type, tumor staging and therapy response. Artificial intelligence and machine learning models have enabled the integration of genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic and microbiome data to identify pathogen-driven molecular patterns associated with cancer and treatment outcomes. However, translating these findings into clinical practice faces challenges, such as inter-patient variability in microbial composition, the need for external validation across diverse cohorts and the development of standardized cost-effective diagnostic platforms. This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on the transformative potential of computational frameworks that are available to study these interactions between microbes in the tumor microenvironment and outlines future directions. By bridging the molecular mechanisms with computational innovation, this review provides a roadmap for leveraging hos-pathogen interactions to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment options and patient outcomes.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Assessing the bioavailability of nutrients and bioactive compounds in vitro commonly relies on coupling standardized gastrointestinal digestion models with intestinal epithelial cell systems. However, digests produced using static digestion protocols such as INFOGEST often impair epithelial barrier integrity, limiting their direct application to intestinal models and reducing reproducibility across studies. Methods: This work systematically compared five commonly used digest conditioning strategies, including acidification, centrifugation, rapid freezing, and ultrafiltration using 10 kDa and 3 kDa molecular weight cut-off membranes, to identify the approach that best preserves intestinal epithelial viability and barrier function while enabling exposure at physiologically relevant concentrations. INFOGEST digests of yogurt were initially evaluated, followed by validation using biscuit and canned mackerel digests. Cell viability and monolayer integrity were assessed in differentiated Caco-2 cells using MTT assay and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements. Results: Among the tested approaches, ultrafiltration using 3 kDa membranes consistently preserved epithelial viability and barrier integrity at a 1:10 dilution across all food matrices, whereas other conditioning methods failed to maintain TEER despite acceptable cell viability. At lower dilutions, food-dependent effects emerged, highlighting the importance of matrix-specific evaluation. Conclusions: These findings identify 3 kDa ultrafiltration as an effective and minimally invasive strategy to improve the compatibility of INFOGEST digests with intestinal cell models. By enabling reproducible exposure conditions that preserve epithelial integrity, this approach supports more reliable in vitro assessment of nutrient bioavailability and contributes to methodological standardization in nutrition research.

Abstract: The frontlines of innate antiviral immunity center on type I interferons (IFN), which are expressed by nearly all cell types as a cellular alarm signal. IFNs drive the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), which can both generate an intracellular antiviral state and regulate the IFN response itself. This key antiviral line of defense is con-served in all jawed vertebrates, including teleost fish. Since their identification nearly 70 years ago, many mammalian ISGs have been identified and characterized However, fish ISGs represent an exciting, largely unexplored avenue of antiviral effector research and present an opportunity to assess how IFN systems have been shaped by whole genome duplication events. This review summarizes advances in identification of bona fide teleost ISGs and examines studies in elucidating the antiviral mechanisms of con-served ISGs, including IFIT1, Mx, Nmi and IFP35, Viperin, TRIMs, and ISG15. Teleost-specific gene expansions and isoform divergence, particularly in the development of the fish novel TRIM family, will be considered under each relevant ISG. Under-standing teleost ISG biology promises not only to improve antiviral strategies in aquaculture but also to reveal novel antiviral principles with translational relevance for human health.

Abstract:

Melanin accumulation is the primary cause of skin hyperpigmentation, and most existing cosmetic agents address this process by inhibiting melanogenesis. In contrast, strategies that directly decolorize or degrade melanin remain largely unexplored. In this study, we report a novel biobased cosmetic ingredient derived from onion (Allium cepa)–associated endophytic fungi that exhibits direct melanin decolorization alongside skin-whitening and anti-aging activities. Endophytic fungi were isolated from onion tissues, and aqueous extracts were prepared to ensure cosmetic-grade compatibility. Preliminary screening demonstrated exceptional melanin-reducing capacity among the isolates, with a maximum reduction of 97.83%, highlighting their strong melanin degrading potential. A selected isolate, identified as Aspergillus brasiliensis (ACL05), was further investigated to elucidate the influence of sterilization methods on bioactivity. The autoclaved culture filtrate retained substantial melanin-reducing activity (62.85%), whereas ultrasonication-based cell inactivation resulted in significantly lower activity (32.54%), indicating that heat-stable extracellular metabolites are primarily responsible for melanin decolorization. A cosmetic essence formulated using the sterile ACL05 extract achieved a measurable melanin reduction of 15.39%, demonstrating formulation feasibility and functional efficacy. Beyond melanin decolorization, the ACL05 extract exhibited multifunctional anti-aging properties, including inhibitory activities against tyrosinase, collagenase, and elastase, as well as significant antioxidant capacity as determined by the DPPH assay. Collectively, these findings reveal, for the first time, the potential of onion-derived endophytic Aspergillus brasiliensis as a sustainable source of multifunctional cosmetic bioactives. This work introduces a new paradigm for skin-whitening based on direct melanin decolorization while simultaneously addressing skin aging, supporting the development of next-generation biobased cosmetic ingredients.

Abstract: A technology has been developed for producing dry functional vegetable powders from carrot, beetroot, and pumpkin pomace using combined methods: convective drying, ultrasound pretreatment, and vacuum-microwave drying. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of different drying techniques on particle size distribution, flowability, hydration properties, color, thermal stability, retention of bioactive compounds (β-carotene, betalains, carotenoids), and overall functional-technological characteristics of the powders. It was established that vacuum-microwave drying provides the best results: minimal moisture content (5.2–6.1%), low water activity (0.28–0.33), high flowability (Carr’s index 23.7–30.4), excellent dispersibility and solubility, as well as maximum retention of thermolabile compounds (carotenoids/betalains retention up to 90–95%). Ultrasound pretreatment significantly enhances mass transfer, reduces particle size, and improves powder quality during subsequent convective drying; however, it remains inferior to the vacuum-microwave method across all key indicators. Optimal parameters for vacuum-microwave drying were determined for each type of raw material, ensuring maximum nutrient preservation with minimal processing time. The resulting powders demonstrate high thermal stability up to 200 °C and are suitable for fortification of functional food products. The study results confirm the high potential of combined drying technologies applied to secondary vegetable raw materials for the production of natural functional ingredients with extended shelf life.