Causes and Clinical Sequelae of Riboflavin Deficiency

Biofortification of fermented foods with riboflavin-overproducing Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis strains

Fermented food matrices with probiotic cultures capable to enrich the content of riboflavin in the final product, and capable to deliver metabolically active strains, is an appealing alternative to prevent the issues associated with this vitamin deficiency. In this work two riboflavin-overproducing B. longum subsp. infantis strains, IPLA60015 and IPLA60012, were investigated for the elaboration of fermented drinks based on dairy and almond drink matrices. Dairy fermented products showed the highest riboflavin concentrations upon one month of refrigerated storage. The concentration of vitamin in milks fermented with a single riboflavin overproducing bifidobacterial culture, was higher than that obtained in co-culture with several yogurt starters, or that present in commercial yogurts. Besides, following simulated in vitro digestion of the biofortified products, between 59.8 and 84.6 % of the riboflavin present in the fermented foods were detected, the highest recovery occurring in the fermented dairy matrix fermented with strain IPLA60012. These results set the ground to facilitate the incorporation of novel riboflavin producing bifidobacterial cultures into fermented matrices.

Transient neonatal multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency due to riboflavin deficiency in an infant on total parenteral nutrition

Riboflavin, a vital water-soluble vitamin, serves as a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in cellular energy metabolism. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to diverse clinical manifestations and metabolic changes that mimic multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD). We report a case of a preterm female infant dependent on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with insufficient riboflavin intake. The infant exhibited clinical and biochemical features resembling MADD; however, molecular analysis revealed no pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants associated with MADD or riboflavin transporter defects. Treatment with riboflavin, L-carnitine and multivitamin supplementation resulted in the resolution of clinical and biochemical abnormalities within 1 week. This case highlights that the transient MADD-like features were attributable to riboflavin deficiency induced by TPN.

Dose-Response Metabolomics Unveils Liver Metabolic Disruptions and Pathway Sensitivity to Alkylimidazolium Ionic Liquids: Benchmark Dose Estimation for Health Risk Assessment

Alkylimidazolium-based ionic liquids (AILs), once hailed as ″green solvents,″ have seen widespread use, but recent concerns have emerged regarding their environmental and health risks. This study integrates in vitro and in vivo dose-response metabolomics to investigate liver metabolic disturbances and pathway sensitivity to 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium (M8OI) exposure. Important liver function indicators, including catalase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and glycosylated serum protein, showed significant alterations (P < 0.05), indicating liver dysfunction. Metabolomics analysis revealed dose-dependent changes in energy metabolism and oxidative stress pathways in both cell and rat models, characterized by increased levels of thiamine and lipopolysaccharides, and decreased levels of nicotinamide and adenine. Key intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, such as citrate and isocitrate, exhibited significant alterations (P < 0.05). Pathway analysis identified disruptions in arginine, proline, and purine metabolism. Quantitative risk characterization based on effective concentration (EC) values identified key metabolites─adenine (EC-10 = 0.004 mg/kg), (±)12(13)-DiHOME (EC-10 = 0.024 mg/kg), and nicotinamide (EC-10 = 0.05 mg/kg) in vivo, and isocitrate (EC-10 = 0.22 μM), d-threo-isocitric acid (EC-10 = 0.23 μM), and citric acid (EC-10 = 0.40 μM) in vitro─as potential biomarkers of M8OI-induced metabolic disruption. These findings highlight hepatic metabolic disturbances induced by M8OI, with dose-response metabolomics identifying benchmark dose values based on regression models, thereby providing a basis for health risk assessment.

Joint and individual associations between multiple vitamins and sperm quality in adult men

Background

Several studies have suggested that a healthy diet is associated with improved male fertility outcomes. However, the joint and individual associations between the status of multiple vitamins and sperm quality remain unclear.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the associations between serum vitamin levels and sperm quality parameters in adult men.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 156 adult men seeking fertility care at a reproductive center from December 2023 to June 2024. Blood and semen were collected on the same day to determine the concentrations of nine kinds of vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, C, A, D, E) and five parameters of sperm quality [total sperm number, sperm concentration, progressive motile sperm, morphologically normal rate, and DNA fragment index (DFI)]. The joint and individual associations between vitamin levels and sperm quality were analyzed using multiple linear regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models.

Results

Increased tertiles of vitamin B1 and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2-D3] in serum were associated with higher sperm quality (all P for trends < 0.10). Compared with the lowest tertiles, the highest tertiles of vitamin B12 had β: 3.0 (95% CI: 0.8, 5.2) increasing in DFI, and vitamin A was negatively associated with progressive sperm motility (P for trends = 0.05). We generally found null results between multiple vitamin levels and the parameters of sperm quality in the BKMR models.

Discussion

These research findings imply that vitamins could have a dose-dependent dual effect on sperm quality. More specifically, the impact of vitamins varies according to their dosage levels and types. Personalized vitamin supplementation may be more effective than taking multivitamins in improving sperm quality.

Correlation between dietary vitamin B2 intake and helicobacter pylori infection in US adults: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a widely recognized factor in causing inflammation in the stomach and significantly increases the likelihood of developing gastric cancer. The relation between intake of vitamin B2 in the diet and testing positive for Helicobacter pylori is still unclear.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used data from the NHANES conducted in the United States in 1999-2000. Vitamin B2 consumption was measured from one 24-hour recall interview. H. pylori seropositivity was confirmed through an ELISA test measuring serum lgG protein levels. Multivariable logistic regression models, subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed to evaluate the possible association between dietary vitamin B2 consumption and H. pylori seropositivity.

RESULTS

Out of the total 2,859 participants, 1,257 had H. pylori seropositivity, with males making up 47.5% and the mean age was 49.7 years old. There was a significant inverse association between vitamin B2 intake and H. pylori [odds ratio (OR): 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.78-0.99), p = 0.031], after full adjustment for covariates. When dietary vitamin B2 analyzed as a categorical variable, the risk of H. pylori seropositivity in the highest quartile Q4 group decreased by 39% compared to lowest quartile Q1 (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.44-0.86, p = 0.004, Model 3). The findings of subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were constant and dependable.

CONCLUSION

This study implies that increased dietary vitamin B2 consumption may be related with a decreased incidence of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity.

Recent Advances on the Role of B Vitamins in Cancer Prevention and Progression

Water-soluble B vitamins, mainly obtained through dietary intake of fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products, act as co-factors in various biochemical processes, including DNA synthesis, repair, methylation, and energy metabolism. These vitamins include B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B7 (Biotin), B9 (Folate), and B12 (Cobalamin). Recent studies have shown that besides their fundamental physiological roles, B vitamins influence oncogenic metabolic pathways, including glycolysis (Warburg effect), mitochondrial function, and nucleotide biosynthesis. Although deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with several complications, emerging evidence suggests that excessive intake of specific B vitamins may also contribute to cancer progression and interfere with therapy due to impaired metabolic and genetic functions. This review discusses the tumor-suppressive and tumor-progressive roles of B vitamins in cancer. It also explores the recent evidence on a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between B vitamin metabolism and cancer progression and underscores the need for further research to determine the optimal balance of B vitamin intake for cancer prevention and therapy.

Water-Soluble Vitamins: Hypo- and Hypervitaminosis in Pediatric Population

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Water-soluble vitamins, comprising the B-complex vitamins and vitamin C, are essential for normal growth, cellular metabolism, and immune function in pediatric populations. Due to limited storage in the body, these vitamins require consistent intake to prevent deficiencies. Pediatric populations, particularly infants and young children, face a heightened risk of both deficiency and, in rare cases, toxicity due to varying dietary intake and increased developmental needs. This review explores the clinical importance of water-soluble vitamins, focusing on hypo- and hypervitaminosis in children.

METHODS

A narrative review of the recent literature on the sources, recommended intakes, deficiency symptoms, and potential toxicities associated with each water-soluble vitamin was conducted.

RESULTS

Deficiencies in water-soluble vitamins can lead to diverse clinical outcomes, such as neurological, hematological, and immune-related symptoms, depending on the specific vitamin involved. Pediatric populations with increased nutritional needs, such as those experiencing rapid growth or with malabsorption conditions, are particularly vulnerable to vitamin insufficiencies. Conversely, although uncommon, excessive intake of certain water-soluble vitamins may cause mild toxicity, primarily gastrointestinal or neurological.

CONCLUSIONS

Monitoring water-soluble vitamin levels and providing tailored nutritional support are critical to prevent the adverse effects of hypo- and hypervitaminosis in children. Further research is needed to refine pediatric nutritional guidelines and address the specific needs of young patients, supporting optimal health outcomes.

Flavins and Flavoproteins in the Neuroimmune Landscape of Stress Sensitization and Major Depressive Disorder

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common and severe neuropsychiatric condition resulting in irregular alterations in affect, mood, and cognition. Besides the well-studied neurotransmission-related etiologies of MDD, several biological systems and phenomena, such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cytokine signaling, have been implicated as being altered and contributing to depressive symptoms. However, the manner in which these factors interact with each other to induce their effects on MDD development has been less clear, but is beginning to be understood. Flavins are potent biomolecules that regulate many redox activities, including ROS generation and energy production. Studies have found that circulating flavin levels are modulated during stress and MDD. Flavins are also known for their importance in immune responses. This review offers a unique perspective that considers the redox-active cofactors, flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), as vital substrates for linking MDD-related maladaptive processes together, by permitting stress-induced enhancement of microglial interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) signaling.

Riboflavin Deficiency and Apoptosis: A Review

Riboflavin, commonly known as vitamin B2, is an essential micronutrient critical for the function of flavoproteins, which utilize flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide as cofactors in energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, redox regulation, and protein folding. Nutritional riboflavin deficiency (RD) has previously been observed in humans and animals, leading to adverse outcomes such as growth retardation, increased mortality, and liver damage, which may be attributed to apoptosis. Although such deficiencies are now uncommon because of improved living standards, certain high-risk groups (e.g. those with chronic diseases, the elderly, and pregnant) have increased riboflavin demands, making them vulnerable to physiological RD associated with apoptosis. Understanding the pathways through which RD induces apoptosis, including mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and reactive oxygen species, is essential for grasping its broader health impacts. Additionally, this deficiency disrupts fatty acid metabolism, potentially resulting in lipotoxic apoptosis. Despite its significance, RD-induced apoptosis remains underexplored in the literature. Therefore, this review will discuss the roles of redox imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and lipotoxicity in apoptosis regulation because of RD, aiming to highlight its importance for improving riboflavin nutrition and overall health.

The Association Between the Dietary Inflammatory Index, Dietary Pattern, and Hypertension Among Residents in the Xinjiang Region

Background: Diet and inflammation are both associated with hypertension. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the dietary inflammation index (DII), dietary patterns, and the risk of hypertension among Xinjiang residents. Methods: A total of 930 residents aged 20-80 from Shihezi and Tumushuk were selected as participants using a stratified whole cluster random sampling method. General demographic information, dietary data, and physical examination results were collected from the participants and DII scores were calculated. Restricted cubic spline was used to analyze the dose-response relationship between the DII and the risk of hypertension. LASSO regression was used to screen dietary factors associated with hypertension. Factor analysis was used to extract dietary patterns. Finally, logistic regression modeling was used to analyze the association between the DII, dietary patterns, and the risk of hypertension. Results: The DII was linearly and positively associated with the risk of developing hypertension. Logistic regression analysis showed that the prevalence of hypertension was 2.23 (95% CI: 1.53, 3.23) and 3.29 (95% CI: 2.26, 4.79) in the T2 and T3 groups, respectively, compared with the T1 group. Riboflavin and folate were associated with the risk of hypertension. In the vegetable-egg dietary pattern, the risk of hypertension was reduced by 33%, 39%, and 37% in groups Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, compared with group Q1 (Q2: OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.45, 0.99; Q3: OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.92; Q4: OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.42, 0.96). Conclusions: The higher the DII score, the higher the risk of hypertension among residents of Xinjiang. In addition, vegetable-egg dietary patterns can reduce the risk of hypertension. Therefore, local residents should be scientifically instructed to increase their intake of vegetables and eggs.

Multiple Acyl-Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Deficiency Is Associated with Sertraline Use - Is There an Acquired Form?

OBJECTIVE

Multiple acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is a disorder of fatty acid oxidation and considered an inborn error of metabolism. In recent years, we have diagnosed an increasing number of patients where, despite extensive investigation, no disease-causing mutations have been found. We therefore investigated a cohort of consecutive patients, with the objective to detect possible non-genetic causes.

METHODS

We searched the patient records and the registry of muscle biopsies, for patients with MADD, diagnosed within the past 10 years. The patient records were reviewed regarding symptoms, clinical findings, comorbidities, drugs, diagnostic investigations, and response to treatment. In addition, complementary investigations of muscle tissue were performed.

RESULTS

We identified 9 patients diagnosed with late-onset MADD. All presented with muscle weakness and elevated levels of creatine kinase. A lipid storage myopathy was evident in the muscle biopsies, as was elevated acylcarnitines in blood. Despite thorough genetic investigations, a probable genetic cause was found in only 2 patients. Remarkably, all 7 patients without disease-causing mutations were treated with sertraline. In some cases, a deterioration of symptoms closely followed dose increase, and discontinuation resulted in an improved acylcarnitine profile. All 9 patients responded to riboflavin treatment with normalization of creatine kinase and muscle biopsy findings, and in 8 patients the clinical symptoms clearly improved.

INTERPRETATION

Our findings strongly suggest that sertraline may induce an acquired form of MADD in some patients. Importantly, riboflavin treatment seems to be similarly effective as in genetic MADD, but discontinuation of sertraline is reasonably warranted. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:802-811.

Integration of bile proteomics and metabolomics analyses reveals novel insights into different types of gallstones in a high-altitude area

BACKGROUND

To explore the pathogenesis of different subtypes of gallstones in high-altitude populations from a molecular perspective.

METHODS

We collected bile samples from 20 cholesterol gallstone disease (CGD) patients and 20 pigment gallstone disease (PGD) patients. Proteomics analysis was performed by LC/MS DIA, while metabolomics analysis was performed by UPLC- Q-TOF/MS.

RESULTS

We identified 154 up-regulated and 196 down-regulated differentially expressed proteins, which were significantly enriched in neurodegenerative diseases, energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism etc. In metabolomics analysis, 20 up-regulated and 63 down-regulated differentially expressed metabolites were identified, and they were significantly enriched in vitamin B6 metabolism. Three pathways of integrated proteomics and metabolomics were significantly enriched: porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, riboflavin metabolism and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis. Remarkably, 7 differentially expressed proteins and metabolites showed excellent predictive performance and were selected as potential biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our metabolomics and proteomics analyses help to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of gallstone formation in high-altitude populations.

Simultaneous Identification of Vitamins B1, B3, B5, and B6 by an Engineered Nanopore

Vitamin Bs, a group of water-soluble compounds, are essential nutrients for almost all living organisms. However, due to their structural heterogeneity, rapid and simultaneous analysis of multiple vitamin Bs is still challenging. In this paper, it is discovered that a hetero-octameric Mycobacterium smegmatis porin A (MspA) nanopore containing a sole nickel ion-bound nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA-Ni) adapter at its pore constriction is suitable for the simultaneous sensing of different vitamin Bs, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid and nicotinamide), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine). Assisted by a custom machine learning algorithm, all seven vitamin Bs can be fully distinguished, reporting a general accuracy of 99.9%. This method was further validated in the rapid analysis of commercial cosmetics and natural food, suggesting its potential uses in food and drug administration.

Fluoride induces immunotoxicity by regulating riboflavin transport and metabolism partly through IL-17A in the spleen

The impairment of the immune system by fluoride is a public health concern worldwide, yet the underlying mechanism is unclear. Both riboflavin and IL-17A are closely related to immune function and regulate the testicular toxicity of fluoride. However, whether riboflavin or IL-17A is involved in fluoride-induced immunotoxicity is unknown. Here, we first established a male ICR mouse model by treating mice with sodium fluoride (NaF) (100 mg/L) via the drinking water for 91 days. The results showed that fluoride increased the expression of the proinflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-17A, which led to splenic inflammation and morphological injury. Moreover, the expression levels of the riboflavin transporters SLC52A2 and SLC52A3; the transformation-related enzymes RFK and FLAD1; and the key mitochondrial functional determinants SDH, COX, and ATP in the spleen were measured via real-time PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA. The results revealed that fluoride disrupted riboflavin transport, transformation, metabolism, and mitochondrial function. Furthermore, wild-type (WT) and IL-17A knockout (IL-17A-/-) C57BL/6 J male mice of the same age were treated with NaF (24 mg/kg·bw, equivalent to 100 mg/L) and/or riboflavin sodium phosphate (5 mg/kg·bw) via gavage for 91 days. Similar parameters were evaluated as above. The results confirmed that fluoride increased riboflavin metabolism through RFK but not through FLAD1. Fluoride also affected mitochondrial function and activated neutrophils (marked with Ly6g) and macrophages (marked with CD68) in the spleen. Interestingly, IL-17A partly mediated fluoride-induced riboflavin metabolism disorder and immunotoxicity in the spleen. This work not only reveals a novel toxic mechanism for fluoride but also provides new clues for exploring the physiological function of riboflavin and for diagnosing and treating the toxic effects of fluoride in the environment.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Associated Oral Health in Adolescents: A Comprehensive Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION

The shift to processed foods in American diets has increased vitamin and mineral deficiencies among adolescents, impacting growth and health, often manifesting as oral lesions. This review study aimed to explore the link between nutritional deficiencies and adolescent oral health to improve guidance and prevent long-term issues.

METHODS

A systematic review of literature from 2013 to 2023 was conducted on adolescents aged 10-19 years, using PRISMA guidelines. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source-Ebscohost, and Scopus included peer-reviewed articles, excluding reviews and non-empirical studies. Data were screened and extracted with independent reviews for accuracy.

RESULTS

Malnutrition strongly correlates with poor oral health. Undernourished children have a 60% increase in dental caries, exacerbated by high sugar intake. Early malnutrition delays dental eruption, temporarily protecting against caries, while stunting and infections cause enamel defects. Chronic conditions like cerebral palsy and celiac disease worsen oral health, with risks persisting into adulthood.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutritional deficiencies and oral health are interconnected, requiring integrated healthcare. Early interventions and holistic strategies can improve outcomes and reduce long-term burdens. Comprehensive health education and routine dental evaluations are essential for prevention and treatment, enhancing health across all demographics.

Revitalising Riboflavin: Unveiling Its Timeless Significance in Human Physiology and Health

Since the early twentieth century, research on vitamins has revealed their therapeutic potential beyond their role as essential micronutrients. Riboflavin, known as vitamin B2, stands out for its unique characteristics. Despite numerous studies, riboflavin remains vital, with implications for human health. Abundantly present in various foods, riboflavin acts as a coenzyme in numerous enzymatic reactions crucial for human metabolism. Its role in energy production, erythrocyte synthesis, and vitamin metabolism underscores its importance in maintaining homeostasis. The impact of riboflavin extends to neurological function, skin health, and cardiovascular well-being, with adequate levels linked to reduced risks of various ailments. However, inadequate intake or physiological stress can lead to deficiency, a condition that poses serious health risks, including severe complications. This underscores the importance of maintaining sufficient levels of riboflavin for general wellness. The essential role of riboflavin in immune function further emphasises its significance for human health and vitality. This paper examines the diverse effects of riboflavin on health and stresses the importance of maintaining sufficient levels for overall well-being.

Wireless and battery-free wearable biosensing of riboflavin in sweat for precision nutrition

Nutrition assessment is crucial for dietary guidance and prevention of malnutrition. Recent endeavors in wearable biochemical sensors have enabled real-time, in situ analysis of nutrients in sweat. However, the monitoring of riboflavin, an indispensable vitamin B involved in energy metabolism, remains challenging due to its trace level and variations in the sweat matrix. Herein, we report a wireless, battery-free, and flexible wearable biosensing system for the in situ monitoring of sweat riboflavin. Highly sensitive and selective electrochemical voltammetric detection is realized based on the synergistic effect of electrodeposited reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) with a low detection limit of 1.2 nM. The fully integrated system is capable of sweat sampling with the microfluidic patch, real-time riboflavin analysis and pH calibration with the flexible electrode array, as well as wirelessly simultaneous near field communication (NFC) energy harvesting and data transmission with the flexible circuit and a smartphone. On-body human sweat analysis demonstrates high accuracy cross-validated with gold-standard measurements, and reveals a strong correlation between sweat and urine riboflavin levels. The proposed wearable platform opens up attractive possibilities for noninvasive nutrient tracking, providing strong potential for personalized dietary guidance towards precision nutrition.