Die Naturwissenschaften[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
A spectroscopic and chemometric approach to species identification: differentiation of royal Bengal Tiger and Indian Leopard bones.
Sharma CP, Bhatia D, Singh R
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 May · PMID 42126589 · Publisher ↗
Tigers are often targeted for their body parts, particularly bones, which are highly prized in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) market for their medicinal properties. Due to their high demand and dwindling tiger po...
Tigers are often targeted for their body parts, particularly bones, which are highly prized in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) market for their medicinal properties. Due to their high demand and dwindling tiger population, the illegal wildlife market has seen a rise in substitutes for tiger bone. Therefore, to support legal action and enforce regulations, verifying the authenticity of suspected tiger bone products is crucial. In the present study, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics were utilized to differentiate the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) and Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) bone samples. The ATR-FTIR bone spectra of both species were visually compared and subsequently subjected to chemometric analysis. Three chemometric tools, including PCA, SVM, and PLS-DA, were employed, which successfully differentiated the bone spectra of the two species with accuracies of 91.66%, 97.92%, and 100%, respectively. Cross-validation indicated that the PLS-DA model outperformed the SVM model, leading to further validation studies only carried out for the PLS-DA model. The external validation and blind testing of the PLS-DA model yielded 100% accuracy. Furthermore, the PLS-DA model successfully distinguished water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bone samples from those of the Royal Bengal Tiger and Indian Leopard, categorizing all three species into distinct classes with 100% accuracy. This study demonstrated a quick, reliable, and cost-effective method for differentiating the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, and water buffalo bones using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics, even in powder form without having any morphological characteristics.
Vertical stratification and seasonality of fruit-feeding butterfly diversity in a Neotropical dry forest.
Nascimento BSD, de Araújo Silva G, de Jesus Araújo Pinto U … +3 more , Macêdo JR, do Vale Beirão M, de Oliveira Silva J
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 May · PMID 42126436 · Full text
Vertical stratification and climatic seasonality influence the structuring of butterfly communities in tropical forests. This study assessed how vertical stratification (canopy vs. understory) and seasonal variation affe...
Vertical stratification and climatic seasonality influence the structuring of butterfly communities in tropical forests. This study assessed how vertical stratification (canopy vs. understory) and seasonal variation affect fruit-feeding butterfly (Nymphalidae) assemblages in a Brazilian tropical dry forest (TDF), and how these patterns relate to climatic variables and food resource availability. Sampling was conducted monthly over one year in the northern Espinhaço Range, within the Caatinga domain. Twenty 25 × 4 m plots were established, each with two Van Someren-Rydon traps (understory at 1 m and canopy at ≥ 6 m). Monthly measurements included temperature, humidity, light, precipitation, and zoochoric fruit availability. We recorded 2,166 individuals from 51 species, with Biblidinae and Satyrini representing over 70% of the community. Hamadryas februa was dominant in the understory, while Biblis hyperia nectanabis prevailed in the canopy. Species composition differed between vertical strata, indicating niche partitioning likely driven by microclimatic variation. Temporal patterns also influenced diversity: species richness peaked during the hottest months, and abundance peaked in the driest month, about two months after the rainy season's peak. Subfamilies and tribes showed distinct seasonal peaks, suggesting temporal niche partitioning and reduced intergroup competition. Our findings highlight that vertical and seasonal gradients shape butterfly communities in TDFs. The high diversity and spatial-temporal dynamics observed emphasize the ecological value of the Caatinga and the need to consider vertical structure and seasonality in conservation strategies for TDFs, highly threatened and understudied ecosystems in Brazil.
More than meets the (human) eye: Cryptic chromatic diversity in a colour polymorphic lizard : Cryptic polymorphism in lacertid lizards.
Pérez I de Lanuza G, Font E
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 May · PMID 42096108 · Full text
Understanding the evolution of polymorphisms, such as colour polymorphisms, is a key aim in evolutionary biology. Accurate, objective description of the different colour variants is crucial to correctly explore colour po...
Understanding the evolution of polymorphisms, such as colour polymorphisms, is a key aim in evolutionary biology. Accurate, objective description of the different colour variants is crucial to correctly explore colour polymorphisms, a task that can be hindered by the existence of cryptic morphs. Colour polymorphisms are common in many lizards, including lacertids (fam. Lacertidae). The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, shows a complex colour polymorphism involving up to five discrete morphs that differ in their ventral coloration: white, yellow, and orange pure morphs, as well as white-orange and yellow-orange mosaic morphs. Here we report that colour polymorphism in this species is more complex than hitherto appreciated due to the presence of two different types of white coloration: one absorbing and another reflecting in the near ultraviolet (UV). Our results show that both colours are found in all populations although in different frequencies. Visual models indicate that both whites are likely to be perceived by the lizards as distinct colour categories. No equivalent cryptic colour variation was found among yellow or orange animals. However, the two whites are also present in white-orange mosaics. As both whites are present in different adult individuals from the same population, it seems more adequate to describe the ventral polymorphism of P. muralis as comprising not five, but seven morphs: UV-absorbing white (UVwhite), UV-reflecting white (UVwhite), yellow and orange pure morphs, as well as UVwhite-orange, UVwhite-orange, and yellow-orange mosaic morphs. Our results demonstrate that the two types of white are also found in other Podarcis species as well as in other lacertids, revealing that this phenomenon is not a derived character restricted to Podarcis. The existence of cryptic morphs highlights the impact of relying on anthropomorphic descriptions in studies of colour polymorphisms.
Cytochrome-b discriminates civet species: A case study of suspected civets in Tamil Nadu, India.
Maheswari RU, Thiyagarajan KB, Amarnath CB … +3 more , Sakthinarenderan S, Vasanthakumari D, Senbagapriya S
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 May · PMID 42095902 · Publisher ↗
In India, eight civet species have been documented. Among these, the Asian palm civet and the Small Indian civet are most frequently reported in poaching incidents for bushmeat and other purposes. In this study, we exami...
In India, eight civet species have been documented. Among these, the Asian palm civet and the Small Indian civet are most frequently reported in poaching incidents for bushmeat and other purposes. In this study, we examined four processed leg samples (n = 4) seized by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and suspected to be of civet origin. DNA was extracted and four partial mitochondrial genes (cytochrome b (cyt-b), 12 S ribosomal RNA (12 S rRNA), 16 S ribosomal RNA (16 S rRNA), and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COXI)) were amplified for species identification. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis indicated that cyt-b provided clearer species-level resolution compared to the other genes, which showed ambiguous matches, likely due to limited reference data in the NCBI database. Phylogenetic analysis further confirmed that all samples originated from Paradoxurus jerdoni (brown palm civet). This case study shows that lesser-reported civet species may also be involved in wildlife trade and demonstrates that cyt-b is a practical genetic marker for forensic identification under current database limitations. The findings highlight the need for robust reference databases to improve species discrimination in wildlife forensic investigations and support enforcement efforts.
Different cadaver astigmatan mites (Arthropoda: Acari) are designed to bite flesh differently.
Bowman CE, Perotti MA
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 42056308 · Full text
How dead bodies decay is useful forensically. Necrophagous astigmatan mites (Acari: Sarcoptiformes) commonly attacking cadavers change from protein-seeking Type 1 surface feeding omnivores to interstitial Type 2 fragment...
How dead bodies decay is useful forensically. Necrophagous astigmatan mites (Acari: Sarcoptiformes) commonly attacking cadavers change from protein-seeking Type 1 surface feeding omnivores to interstitial Type 2 fragmentary feeding obligate fungivore / microbiovores as human body decomposition progresses after death. An analytical occlusive method shows that at each forensic decay stage the chelae of the astigmatans are designed to bite foodstuff differently. Fixed chelal digits are more ‘toothy’ than moveable digits in such sarcoptiform mites. Variation in fixed digit design is all about the size and pattern of peaks (‘peakiness’) for biting, while astigmatan moveable digit variation is mainly about the size and pattern of valleys (’gullet-ness’) for the ‘scooping’ of decaying material. Foodstuff caught on the moveable digit is thus masticated against the fixed digit like an ‘excavation-bucket’ machine used for handling aggregates in building construction. Lardoglyphus zacheri has a distinct chela suitable to slice flesh and grip myofibrils. Acarus siro through Sancassania berlesei to Tyrophagus putrescentiae show a cline in digit design from a dry material ‘demolition crusher’ with rough surface digits, through a wet chunk and slice feeder, to a specialist multifunctional saprophage. Sancassania berlesei is unlikely to actively burrow into flesh. Trophic niche width increases from stage 2 (bloated putrefaction) as soft food specialist species invade. Niche width markedly widens at stage 5 (mummified dry desiccated bones and remains), as incorporation into a soil with diverse saprophagous mites is coming to completion.
Desert treasures: a comprehensive review of the diversity, phytochemistry, ethnobotany, and conservation of thar desert flora.
Iqbal U, Naseem HZ, Jabeen H … +7 more , Gul MF, Gul S, Naz N, Hameed M, Ahmad F, Ahmad MSA, Ashraf M
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 42053834 · Publisher ↗
The Thar Desert, one of South Asia largest arid ecosystems, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ecological diversity. It supports unique indigenous communities whose livelihoods depend on agriculture, animal h...
The Thar Desert, one of South Asia largest arid ecosystems, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ecological diversity. It supports unique indigenous communities whose livelihoods depend on agriculture, animal husbandry, and traditional crafts such as woodworking, wool weaving, and jewelry making. Despite its ecological and medicinal significance, much of the region’s ethnobotanical knowledge remains undocumented. To systematically characterize the distribution, diversity, and medicinal potential of Thar Desert flora, an extensive literature review was conducted using scientific databases including Flora of Pakistan, Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), and Plants of the World Online (POWO), as well as search engines such as Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect (1980–2024). A total of 162 plant species belonging to 69 families were documented and evaluated for their phytochemical composition, ethnomedicinal relevance, and conservation status across the Thar Desert. The dominant families—Poaceae (27%), Fabaceae (16%), and Asteraceae (11%)—exhibit remarkable ecological adaptability through halophytic, xerophytic, and nitrogen-fixing traits that stabilize sand dunes, enhance soil fertility, and provide forage for livestock and wildlife. The life-form spectrum is dominated by therophytes (45%), followed by chamaephytes (28%), phanerophytes (10%), hemicryptophytes (9%), cryptophytes (7%), and parasitic species (1%). Alarmingly, 52% of the documented taxa are listed as Data Deficient and 3% as Critically Endangered, underscoring the urgent need for conservation. Phytochemical evidence highlights the abundance of terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, compounds of recognized pharmacological value. However, increasing pressures from habitat degradation, overgrazing, and climate change continue to threaten this fragile ecosystem. To safeguard the Thar Desert biological and ethno-medicinal heritage, immediate conservation interventions are recommended. These include afforestation programs, sustainable rangeland and water management, biotechnological propagation of threatened taxa, and comprehensive documentation of indigenous medicinal practices. Strengthening protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves, along with implementing community-based conservation and policy integration, will be essential. Such coordinated actions are critical to preserving the Thar Desert biodiversity, promoting sustainable use of its flora, and maintaining its invaluable cultural and medicinal legacy for future generations.
Reproduction by worker-derived kings under natural conditions in the termite Reticulitermes speratus.
Takata M, Araki S, Takahashi M … +1 more , Matsuura K
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 42029702 · Publisher ↗
A defining feature of eusociality is the presence of a lifelong sterile caste, such as workers and soldiers, that forgo reproduction entirely. In many species, however, workers are not absolutely sterile but are instead...
A defining feature of eusociality is the presence of a lifelong sterile caste, such as workers and soldiers, that forgo reproduction entirely. In many species, however, workers are not absolutely sterile but are instead functionally sterile—they retain reproductive potential that can be expressed under certain conditions. Why this potential persists despite the evolutionary expectation of trait loss remains an open question. In this study, we present the first field-based evidence that worker-derived male reproductives, previously known only from laboratory observations, can successfully reproduce under natural conditions in the subterranean termite Reticulitermes speratus. A survey of 702 field colonies identified one colony containing only worker-derived kings. Microsatellite genotyping confirmed that these individuals reproduced via mother–son mating (i.e., within-colony inbreeding), and the caste fate of their offspring matched the expected pattern for matings between worker-derived kings and nymph-derived queens. Importantly, no male nymphs—the usual precursors of male reproductives—were present in the colony. Further investigation revealed that 40% of surveyed colonies (6 out of 15) entirely lacked male nymphs, indicating that such conditions may occur with non-negligible frequency in the wild. These findings suggest that worker-derived males gain rare but functional reproductive opportunities when typical male reproductives are absent, thereby maintaining their reproductive capacity over evolutionary timescales. This study provides important insight into the mechanisms that preserve reproductive totipotency in eusocial workers and underscores the value of examining reproductive roles in natural contexts to better understand the evolution of permanent sterility and true superorganismality.
Local biophysical drivers outweigh climatic controls in shaping juniper regeneration in the Eastern Hindu Kush: implications for conservation.
Din NU, Khan N
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 42024160 · Publisher ↗
Junipers are a vital component of the montane ecosystems in the Hindu Kush, and their regeneration and healthy recruitment are critical for the long-term sustainability of these woodlands. However, the current regenerati...
Junipers are a vital component of the montane ecosystems in the Hindu Kush, and their regeneration and healthy recruitment are critical for the long-term sustainability of these woodlands. However, the current regeneration status and the environmental and socio-ecological drivers shaping it remain insufficiently investigated. We assessed the natural regeneration of junipers from 30 stands (300 plots) and examined the environmental factors, disturbance gradients, and stand structural attributes that influence their patterns. Cluster analysis identified three distinct community types (hereafter C-I to C-III); each represents various regeneration dynamics and disturbance levels. Overall, regeneration was poor (seedling density < 46 ± 4.54 individuals ha− 1) and significantly declined with disturbance intensity (R²= 0.39; p < 0.001). Importantly, regeneration varied among the communities, with significantly higher seedlings and saplings recorded in C-I (least disturbed) compared to C-II and C-III (moderately and highly disturbed, respectively) (p < 0.001). Redundancy analysis (RDA) indicated that regeneration was positively associated with soil clay, phosphorus, potassium, water availability, saturation, and field capacity, with a moderate impact from structural attributes. However, elevation, sand, and bulk density were negative drivers. Structural equation modelling (SEM) revealed that topography exerted a strong negative (PC= -0.87), while soil factors had a strong positive effects (PC = 0.49) on regeneration, with climate showing a minimal effect. Our findings suggest that these woodlands exhibit considerably low regeneration, highlighting the urgent need for management interventions. Efforts should focus on improving soil conditions and addressing topography-related limitations, while controlling human-induced disturbances such as deforestation to maintain healthy woodland dynamics.
Cuticular hydrocarbons as biomarkers of developmental stages in Thanatophilus sinuatus (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae): evidence from GC-MS and random forest modeling.
Sharif S, Jakubec P, Moore H … +3 more , Cody R, Amendt J, Qamar A
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41995813 · Publisher ↗
The analysis of cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles can provide valuable insights into species identification, immature development and adult ageing, sexual communication, reproductive functions, and other physiological...
The analysis of cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles can provide valuable insights into species identification, immature development and adult ageing, sexual communication, reproductive functions, and other physiological processes of insects. This study investigated the CHC profiles across the life stages of Thanatophilus sinuatus (Fabricius, 1775), a carrion beetle species commonly associated with decomposing tissues, including human remains. We examined the first, second, and third larval instars, the pupa, and the adult male and female using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. A total of 56 CHCs were identified, including n-alkanes, branched alkanes, and alkenes. Branched alkanes were dominant throughout development, while significant compositional differences were observed among stages. Certain compounds showed consistent proportions across development, suggesting roles in physiological or behavioral processes. Gender-specific differences were also evident, with some CHCs detected exclusively in males or females, potentially linked to sexual communication and reproductive functions. Principal component analysis revealed distinct clustering of developmental stages, and Random Forest classification with out-of-bag validation confirmed high predictive accuracy of CHC profiles for developmental stage identification. These findings highlight the potential of CHC profiling, combined with machine learning approaches, as a valuable tool, particularly useful in situations where specimens of T. sinuatus or other related species are damaged, incomplete, or present only as chemical residues, rather than when intact larvae are available. CHC profiling offers a complementary method for cases where diagnostic characters are missing or obscured.
Multilevel variation in pathogen susceptibility and grooming behavior in ant societies.
Willeput R, Detrain C
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41979695 · Publisher ↗
Ant societies rely on a combination of individual and collective defenses to mitigate pathogen exposure and transmission. Certain morphological, physiological, and life-history traits are expected to influence ant suscep...
Ant societies rely on a combination of individual and collective defenses to mitigate pathogen exposure and transmission. Certain morphological, physiological, and life-history traits are expected to influence ant susceptibility to pathogens. In species with an exclusively subterranean lifestyle, such as the yellow meadow ant Lasius flavus, a weakly sclerotized and depigmented cuticle is assumed to increase vulnerability to contact-transmitted entomopathogens, potentially favoring a compensatory investment in grooming behavior. However, little is known about how survival and sanitary behavior are related, and how they vary across biological levels: between species, colonies, or nestmates. In this study, we exposed L. flavus workers to spores of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana and compared their survival with that of five closely related, pigmented, epigeous Lasius species. Although pathogen susceptibility and grooming behavior differed among species, L. flavus workers unexpectedly showed levels comparable to those of most epigeous species. Mortality also varied significantly across L. flavus colonies and between functional groups of workers, with foragers experiencing higher mortality than intranidal workers, likely due to immunosenescence. Across Lasius species, both self-grooming and acidopore-grooming correlated positively with survival, suggesting that these behaviors contribute to pathogen resistance at the interspecific level. Among L. flavus colonies and functional groups of workers, the weaker, non-significant correlation between survival and grooming suggests that other immune traits may prevail at this level. Overall, our findings highlight both individual- and colony-level variation in pathogen susceptibility and emphasize the interplay between immune defenses and behavioral strategies in shaping species-specific adaptations to pathogenic threats.
Behaviour and vocalization of Mongolian gazelle (Procapra gutturosa) in rutting harems considering the sex-specific vocal anatomy.
Frey R, Volodin IA, Kirilyuk VE … +1 more , Volodina EV
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961268 · Publisher ↗
We investigated behaviour and vocalization of wild-living male and female Mongolian gazelles during the winter rutting period, occurring at low temperatures, on average − 21.7˚C. We used both manual and automated audio r...
We investigated behaviour and vocalization of wild-living male and female Mongolian gazelles during the winter rutting period, occurring at low temperatures, on average − 21.7˚C. We used both manual and automated audio recordings and manual video recordings of calling animals in rutting harems. Recording vocalizations with automated devices placed within harems documented a high vocal activity during the rut in both sexes. Harem males produced their series of rutting barks day and night. Video recordings revealed larynx retraction at each bark resulting in substantial vocal tract elongation. Harem females produced various contact calls but did not produce barks. Both sexes produced nasal alarm snorts and oral running calls, with widely open mouth during galloping. Mating behaviour and fights between rival males were not accompanied by any calls. Both male rutting barks and female contact calls were unusually high-frequency for animals of such size. We integrated data on behavioural postures and acoustic variables with data on sex-specific vocal anatomy, obtained during dissections of male and female specimens. We showed that Mongolian gazelle is the only studied ruminant, in which flexible vocal folds were evolutionarily lost. For both male and female larynges, we report the lack of any thin and flexible, rostrally directed mucosal parts in the glottal region suggesting that Mongolian gazelle, contrary to most other mammals, do not produce their calls by expiratory airflow-induced vocal fold vibration. The production mechanism of the high-frequency calls in Mongolian gazelle remains unclear. We discuss the evolution of vocal rutting behaviour in polygynous Mongolian gazelles.
Recombinant lectin from the coastal jack bean Canavalia rosea and its anti-bruchid activity towards Callosobruchus maculatus (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera).
Mani M, Ramanathan N, Sundaram J
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961266 · Publisher ↗
The insect Callosobruchus maculatus is a potential pest of stored products responsible for damage to legume crops by infesting their seeds, resulting in substantial impairment to their nutritional composition. A few legu...
The insect Callosobruchus maculatus is a potential pest of stored products responsible for damage to legume crops by infesting their seeds, resulting in substantial impairment to their nutritional composition. A few leguminous seeds containing lectins have been found to have the most adverse effects, with the potential to hinder the metabolism of seed-feeding insects. In the present investigation, a lectin gene from the beach bean, Canavalia rosea, was. isolated and its open reading frame encoding 290 amino acids was cloned into pET-45b (+), transformed using BL21 (DE3) cells, and the expressed 30 kDa recombinant lectin polypeptide (CrLP) was purified and characterized. Artificial seeds containing 0.1%, 0.5% and 1.0% concentrations of CrLP were tested for their protective role against the infestation of C. maculatus, wherein a significant reduction in seed damage and adult emergence was observed. Larvae of C. maculatus fed on artificial seeds containing CrLP were evaluated for the enzymes involved in the detoxification processes using RT-qPCR. The expression analysis of various insect detoxification enzymes revealed a significant downregulation of cytochrome p450, glutathione S-transferase, and esterase in larvae raised on all three tested concentrations of CrLP. This study thus demonstrates the potential insecticidal nature of recombinant lectin polypeptide derived from the seeds of C. rosea towards the insect pest C. maculatus.
Adaptations of seal louse nits to underwater life: morphology, respiration and attachment.
Preuss A, van de Kamp T, Gorb SN
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961091 · Full text
Marine mammals host a variety of parasites, engaged in continuous evolutionary competition. Our understanding of parasitic insects associated with these mammals, specifically their physiological adaptations to the marine...
Marine mammals host a variety of parasites, engaged in continuous evolutionary competition. Our understanding of parasitic insects associated with these mammals, specifically their physiological adaptations to the marine environment, remains limited. Among thirteen insect species capable of enduring extended underwater periods in open oceans is the seal louse, Echinophthirius horridus, which infests true seals. This species relies on adaptations to survive extreme conditions such as hypoxia, temperature variations, hydrostatic pressure, and drag forces during host dives. These conditions affect both adult lice and louse embryos within their nits. Questions arise about how these early stages survive underwater, respire inside the eggs during dives, and what limits their survival. Using CLSM, SEM, and synchrotron X-ray microtomography, we identified morphological structures consistent with a potentially specialized respiratory system in the nits, a multi-layered eggshell and structural features that may help limit water entry. Adhesive force tests showed that the nit sheath attaching eggs to seal hair is not the primary vulnerability during host dives; rather, prolonged submersion likely imposes oxygen limitation over time. This research enhances our understanding of ectoparasite-host dynamics in marine mammals and demonstrates remarkable adaptability of insects to challenging aquatic niches.
Research advances on Cordyceps sinensis and its components in relation to omics biomarkers for the neurological disorders.
Lai Z, Zhang B, Fu Z … +5 more , Li R, Qian Y, Zhang Y, Xu P, Du Y
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945111 · Publisher ↗
Cordyceps is a traditional medicinal fungus belonging to the species Ophiocordyceps sinensis. It grows in the alpine ecological zone of the Tibetan Plateau and exhibits dual characteristics of both insects and fungi. The...
Cordyceps is a traditional medicinal fungus belonging to the species Ophiocordyceps sinensis. It grows in the alpine ecological zone of the Tibetan Plateau and exhibits dual characteristics of both insects and fungi. The primary species include Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Rich in bioactive components such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, adenosine, and peptides, cordyceps demonstrates broad applications in immune regulation, anti-tumor activity, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotection. Cordyceps sinensis and its components show great therapeutic potential in neurological diseases such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease through multi-level and multi-target actions However, current research faces challenges including unclear mechanisms of action and insufficient clinical translation. In this review, we analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying cordyceps’ neuroprotective effects, including the regulating of apoptosis, improvement of mitochondrial function, and promoting of nerve repair. Utilizing network pharmacology, we explore the multi-targeted actions of cordyceps and predict the key pathways. Further we summarize the research progress in the integrated multi-omics analyses (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics), to reveal the synergistic roles of cordyceps components in treating neurological disorders and identify potential molecular biomarkers. Additionally, we highlight the findings from preclinical experiments and animal models on cordyceps-based drugs, discussing their advantages and challenges for clinical application. Future studies should prioritize systematic exploration of standardized drug development, advanced multi-omics integration, and rigorous clinical trials. This will provide a more robust scientific foundation and practical guidance for the treatment of neurological diseases with cordyceps.
Widespread distribution of honey bee-associated pathogens in managed and wild bees.
Capela N, Tiritelli R, Sarmento A … +2 more , Santos SS, Cilia G
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41925874 · Publisher ↗
Transmission of pathogens from managed to wild bees presents a significant ecological threat in diverse habitats. Interspecific pathogen transmission is widely documented and occurs frequently in shared environments. Thi...
Transmission of pathogens from managed to wild bees presents a significant ecological threat in diverse habitats. Interspecific pathogen transmission is widely documented and occurs frequently in shared environments. This study examines the prevalence and abundance of the bee-associated pathogens (DWV, BQCV, ABPV, CBPV, KBV, SBV, Nosema ceranae, Crithidia mellificae, Lotmaria passim, and Crithidia bombi) in wild bees sampled in sites with and without honey bees in the Coimbra district (Portugal). Using quantitative PCR and statistical modelling, the study identified interspecific pathogen transmission dynamics influenced by the presence of Apis mellifera colonies and wild bee genera. The findings revealed a high prevalence of pathogens, with DWV (87.22%), CBPV (70.71%), ABPV (48.95%) and N. ceranae (30.03%) being the most common in species. There is a broad susceptibility of different genera of bees, with a higher abundance of pathogens in Andrena, Halictus, and Megachile. The risk of ABPV and SBV infections was associated with sites close to the apiaries. Furthermore, ABPV and L. passim were mainly associated with honey bees, while C. bombi was associated with bumblebees. This study represents the first investigation of wild bee pathogens in mainland Portugal. It emphasizes the urgent need for integrative conservation strategies under a One-Health approach to mitigate the impacts of pathogens on pollinator biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
Mechanisms of flight loss in Island endemic stag beetle Prosopocoilus hachijoensis (Coleoptera: Lucanidae): a comparative analysis of flight and walking traits among congeners.
Komoriya T, Saga T, Ikemoto M … +1 more , Yokoi T
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41920355 · Publisher ↗
Flight is a crucial locomotion strategy in insects, facilitating predator avoidance, foraging, and mating. However, when its energetic costs outweigh the benefits, flight capabilities can be lost secondarily. Flight loss...
Flight is a crucial locomotion strategy in insects, facilitating predator avoidance, foraging, and mating. However, when its energetic costs outweigh the benefits, flight capabilities can be lost secondarily. Flight loss has been studied in species exhibiting intraspecific polymorphisms, whereas both proximate and ultimate factors remain poorly understood in monomorphically flightless species. This study investigates the mechanisms of flight loss in Prosopocoilus hachijoensis, a flightless stag beetle, through comparison with flight-capable Prosopocoilus species. We hypothesized that flight muscle atrophy is a proximate factor, whereas reduced dependence on flight and increased reliance on terrestrial locomotion are the ultimate factors. We conducted field sampling in the Izu Islands, Japan, to examine morphological and behavioral traits related to both flight and walking. All species attempted flight, including the flightless P. hachijoensis. Wing reduction was observed in P. hachijoensis females and flight muscle atrophy was exclusive to this species. Allometric analyses revealed that P. hachijoensis exhibits reduced relative wing size compared with flight-capable congeners. While both male and female P. hachijoensis exhibited a smaller ratio of tarsal length to total leg length, the males’ walking speed did not differ from their congeners. In contrast, females of P. hachijoensis walked faster and showed a lower immobility frequency. We concluded that flight muscle atrophy is a proximate factor for flight loss in P. hachijoensis, and increased reliance on walking as locomotion may represent a potential ultimate factor underlying flight loss.
In vitro and in silico evaluation of copper nanoparticle-phytoconjugates as multi-target antidiabetic agents.
Meenakshi R, Sudharson S, Subashini R … +2 more , Abirami S, Tameem Tabbasum MD
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Apr · PMID 41920341 · Publisher ↗
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels and insulin resistance. Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) has been extensively reported for its hypoglycemic and insulin-sensitizing p...
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels and insulin resistance. Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) has been extensively reported for its hypoglycemic and insulin-sensitizing properties mediated through multiple biochemical pathways. This study aimed to synthesize copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using fenugreek seed extract and the investigation of their antidiabetic activity through an integrated in vitro and in silico approach. Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of secondary metabolites. The in vitro enzyme inhibition assays revealed promising suppression of digestive enzymes: α-amylase (88.72%) and α-glucosidase (91.02%) at 500 µg/mL, indicating a postprandial glucose-lowering capacity. UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated a distinct surface plasmon resonance peak at 546 nm while XRD and FTIR analyses respectively confirmed the crystalline nature and the functional group that were involved in CuNP stabilization. Network pharmacology and molecular docking studies showed significant interactions between the CuNP-ligand conjugates and the diabetes-associated target genes. Moreover, ADMET analysis of the ligands, thymol and anthranilic acid, indicated good oral bioavailability. Overall, the findings demonstrate in vitro antidiabetic activity, while the proposed molecular targets and pathways derived from the network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses were employed as computational, hypotheses-generating approaches and the mechanisms have not been experimentally validated. This integrated phyto-nanoparticle strategy represents a promising cost-effective and sustainable nanotherapeutic approach for diabetes management.
Seed priming to induce seed germination, seedling growth and enzymatic activity in watermelon.
Sharaf Z, Habibi N, Fakhri A … +1 more , Faqiri SM
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915203 · Full text
Poor and non-uniform germination, low seedling vigor, and high susceptibility to seed-borne infections constrain successful establishment of watermelon ( L.) crops. Seed hydro-priming is a simple and cost-effective pre-s...
Poor and non-uniform germination, low seedling vigor, and high susceptibility to seed-borne infections constrain successful establishment of watermelon ( L.) crops. Seed hydro-priming is a simple and cost-effective pre-sowing technique that enhances seed physiological quality by initiating metabolic processes prior to germination. This study evaluated the effects of seed hydro-priming under different soaking temperatures and post-priming drying conditions on germination, seedling growth, vigor indices, physiological and biochemical attributes, seed health, and field emergence of watermelon cv. Chandraprabhavati. Seeds were hydro-primed in distilled water (1:2, w/v) for 18 h at ambient, 10, 25, and 27 °C, followed by drying under control, shade, 30, 35, and 40 °C conditions in a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Hydro-priming significantly improved germination, seedling growth, vigor indices, and field emergence compared with non-primed seeds. Germination increased from 75% in control to 96% under, while seedling dry weight increased to 36.92% under seed priming treatment. Electrical conductivity declined markedly, whereas seed leachate pH and total dehydrogenase activity increased, indicating enhanced membrane stability and respiratory metabolism. Seed hydro-priming enhanced seed tolerance to post priming infection from 70% to 5%. Overall, hydro-priming at 25–27 °C followed by drying at 30–35 °C is an effective, low-cost strategy to improve watermelon seed quality and field performance.
Corilagin induces apoptosis in glioblastoma cells by disrupting metabolic homeostasis: a metabolomics perspective.
Liu F, Zhang M, Long Q … +6 more , Xiao Y, Ma Q, Han B, Gao Y, Liang Z, Lu Y
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915150 · Full text
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with limited therapeutic potions. Corilagin, a natural polyphenol, exhibits anti-tumor activity, but its systemic metabolic mechanisms in GBM remain uncharacterized....
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with limited therapeutic potions. Corilagin, a natural polyphenol, exhibits anti-tumor activity, but its systemic metabolic mechanisms in GBM remain uncharacterized. We treated human glioblastoma LN229 and T98G cells with corilagin and evaluated its effects on cell viability, apoptosis, and migration. An untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics approach was performed to comprehensively profile global metabolic alterations in LN229 cells, followed by multivariate statistical analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment. Corilagin significantly inhibited proliferation, induced apoptotic cell death, and suppressed cell migration in a dose-dependent manner in LN229 and T98G cells. Moreover, principal component analysis and partial least squares-discriminate analysis clearly demonstrated that corilagin disrupted the cell metabolic profiles. Forty differential metabolites in LN229 cells responsible for the intervention effect of corilagin were screened and annotated. These metabolites corresponded to thirteen metabolic pathways. Integrated pathway analysis identified profound disruptions in nucleotide metabolism (notably purine and pyrimidine depletion), glycerophospholipid homeostasis (reduced phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine species), and the TCA cycle. The multi-pathway metabolic collapse was associated with the induction of apoptosis. Our study demonstrates that corilagin exerts its potent anti-glioma effects by inducing a coordinated disruption of core metabolic networks essential for GBM cell survival. These findings establish a strong association between corilagin-induced metabolic reprogramming and apoptotic cell death, highlighting its promise as a therapeutic agent targeting the metabolic vulnerabilities of glioblastoma.
Bioactive potential of Latania verschaffeltii Lem. leaves (Arecaceae): phytochemical, antimicrobial, antiviral, and computational evaluation.
Mohamed MFS, El-Sagheir AMK, Makboul MA … +2 more , Mohamed Attia AA, Gobraeil Malak LG
Naturwissenschaften · 2026 Mar · PMID 41894024 · Publisher ↗
Latania verschaffeltii Lem. (Arecaceae) remains chemically understudied, and investigating its secondary-metabolite profile may provide insights into biochemical diversity while identifying compounds with antimicrobial a...
Latania verschaffeltii Lem. (Arecaceae) remains chemically understudied, and investigating its secondary-metabolite profile may provide insights into biochemical diversity while identifying compounds with antimicrobial and antiviral potential. This study evaluated the antibacterial, antifungal, and anti–hepatitis A virus (HAV) activities of the methanolic extract and n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous fractions, along with catechin and (6 S,9 S)-roseoside isolated from L. verschaffeltii leaves. Ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions showed strong antibacterial activity (inhibition zones 17–44 mm), comparable to gentamicin (19–30 mm), while the methanolic extract was moderate (25–36 mm). Catechin and roseoside exhibited notable antibacterial potency (MICs 2.58–12.05 µM and 3.23–9.05 µM, respectively) and inhibited C. albicans (MICs 1.72 and 2.59 µM), matching or surpassing fluconazole (2.45 µM). Antifungal testing revealed strong activity of the methanolic extract and aqueous fraction against C. albicans (25 and 29 mm), however, no activity was recorded against A. niger. Antiviral testing against hepatitis A virus showed the n-hexane fraction and methanolic extract had the highest inhibition, with 75.49% and 66.95% at 62.5 and 125 µg/mL, respectively. Non-toxic concentrations ranged between 62.5 and 125 µg/mL. The molecular docking targeting DNA gyrase and HAV 3 C protease supported the inhibitory potential of catechin and roseoside. Overall, L. verschaffeltii represents a promising source of bioactive secondary metabolites with antimicrobial and antiviral potential, providing chemotaxonomic insight into this underexplored species.
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