Tohoku Forum for Creativity-International Symposium on Designing Foods for the FutureOrganizers
Haruki Kitazawa (Tohoku University)
Hitoshi Shirakawa (Tohoku University)
Masahiko Harata (Tohoku University)
Tomonori Nochi (Tohoku University)
Nobuyuki Sakai (Tohoku University)
Yuki Takayama (Tohoku University)
Rong–Hong Hsieh (Taipei Medical University)
Suh–Ching Yang (Taipei Medical University)
Julio Villena (CERELA–CONICET)Time ScheduleThursday, September 19, 2024
Venue: Sakura Hall, Katahira Campus, Tohoku University
Opening Remarks
10:30 – 10:35 Teiji Tominaga (President, Tohoku University)
10:35 – 10:40 Mai–Szu Wu (President, Taipei Medical University)
Keynote Speech
10:40 – 12:00 Martha Belury (Ohio State University)
Feeding the Planet and Beyond: How Lessons Learned on Earth will Inform
Food Science and Technology for the Future(12:00 – 13:30 Lunch Break)Session 1. The Influence of food on the microbiome and health
13:30 – 14:10 Benson Chen (Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR)
Functional dissection of the gut microbiome for diet–induced metabolic
diseases
14:10 – 14:40 Nobuyuki Okahashi (Osaka University)
Comprehensive analysis of microbial lipidome using untargeted mass
spectrometry

14:40 – 15:05 Jahidul Islam (Tohoku University)
Introducing fecal microbiota transplantation for calf diarrhea treatments
15:05 – 15:45 Stephan Scheurer (Paul–Ehrlich–Institut)
Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of dietary fiber pectin(15:45 – 16:00 Break)Session 2. The utilization of microbes for food production
16:00 – 16:25 Ryuta Tobe (Tohoku University)
Molecular biological analysis of antimicrobial peptides against pathogenic
bacteria
16:25 – 16:50 Keita Nishiyama (Tohoku University)
Impact of gut microbial metabolites on host homeostasis
16:50 – 17:30 Yuan Qiao (Nanyang Technological University (NTU))
The commensal gut bacteria-derived peptidoglycan fragment, GlcNAcMurNAc (GM) disaccharide, confers immunomodulatory and protective
effects via TLR4 signaling
17:30 – 18:00 Julio Villena (CERELA–CONICET)
Modulation of the gut–lung axis by the microbiota and probiotics: impact on
the respiratory trained immunity and the resistance to infections
Social Gathering
18:00 –20:00 (Sakura Hall 1F)

Friday, September 20, 2024
Venue: Aobayama Commons, Aobayama New Campus, Tohoku University
10:00 – 10:10 Opening Remarks
Session 3. [Food Safety and security]
10:10 – 10:40 Seiji Mitsuishi (Miyagi University)
Food Security: What Should We Consider for Japan's Future in a Changing
Global Environment?
10:40 – 11:10 Masaru Ochiai (Kitasato University)
Potential of edible insects as alternative novel food and feed resources
11:10 – 11:50 Liao Kai-Wei (Taipei Medical University)
Risk assessment of dietary exposure to environmental disruptor chemicals
and human health(11:50 – 13:30 Lunch Break)Session 4. [Approaches based on plant and microorganisms materials]
13:30 – 13:50 Shinya Wada (Tohoku University)
Approaches to understanding and improving photosynthetic robustness
13:50 – 14:20 Akira Isogai (University of Tokyo)
Preparation and characterization of plant cellulose nanofibers, and theirapplications as new bionanomaterials to functional and commodity
materials
14:20 – 14:40 Shunji Kato (Tohoku University)
What the analysis of triacylglycerol hydroperoxide isomers in foods canreveal
14:40 – 15:20 Lin Shin-Ping (Taipei Medical University)
Novel porous microbial polymer for functional packaging applications(15:20 – 15:40 Break)Session 5. [Approaches based on marine materials and its safety]
15:40 – 16:00 Kazue Nagasawa (Tohoku University)
Reproductive engineering research in bivalves as sustainable seafood
16:00 – 16:20 Mari Yotsu-Yamashita (Tohoku University)
Biosynthesis and metabolism of the water-soluble marine toxins
16:20 – 17:00 Chen Yi-Tien (Taipei Medical University)
Characterization and detection of allergenic proteins in novel food andseafood
17:00 – 17:10 Closing remarks(Signing ceremony of the agreement)
Social Gathering
18:00 – 20:00 (Buddy's Table)

Saturday, September 21, 2024
Venue: Aobayama Commons, Aobayama New Campus, Tohoku University
9:20 – 9:30

Opening Remarks

Session 6. [Discussions with Junior Researchers]
9:30 – 9:50 Yi-Fen Chiang (Taipei Medical University)
Targeting Nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase as a Novel Therapeutic
Approach for Uterine Leiomyoma Progression
9:50 – 10:10

Ainissya Fitri (National Research and Innovation Agency)

The effect of tannin, amino acids, and their combination on the
microbiome profile and blood metabolites in calves
10:10 – 10:30 Ya-Ling Chen (Taipei Medical University)
Effect of matcha on cafeteria diet-induced rat model of non-alcoholic fatty
liver disease
10:30 – 10:50 Ya-Tin Lin (Taipei Medical University)
From Brain to Metabolism: Exploring Hypothalamic Influences on Metabolic
Dysregulation
10:50 – 12:10
Presentations by selected students of “Graduate Program in Food Science”(12:10 – 13:00 Lunch Break)
13:00 – 15:00 Poster presentation
15:10 – 15:30 Awarding ceremony & Closing remarks

―Abstract―Feeding the Planet and Beyond: How Lessons Learned on Earth will Inform
Food Science and Technology for the Future
Martha Ann Belury*1
1

Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University*Correspondence email: Belury.1@osu.edu

The global population is estimated to reach almost 10 billion people by 2050. This session will be introducing
innovative methods for expanding the food supply for a growing planet to reduce risk for food insecurity areneeded. New methods are being developed that minimize or remove photosynthesis requirements which could
save on land usage and solar dependence. Validating the chemical identity of foods for removing endocrine
disruptors and dispelling food fraud are becoming more accessible for in-sight analyses. Packaging innovations
utilizing waste products from food processing will close the gap in the carbon circle for minimizing energy
required to make food. Reducing our carbon footprint in food systems will enable best practices for producing
foods in space and in environments where energy costs need to be minimized.

Keywords: Food insecurity, Food packaging, vegetable proteins,Biography
Martha Ann Belury, PhD, RDN, is a Professor and Chair of the Department ofFood Science and Technology at the Ohio State University.
Dr. Belury, Past President of the American Society for Nutrition (ASN), conducts
research and teaches in the area of precision nutrition in human health. With her
students and collaborators, Dr. Belury seeks to understand how fatty acids,
flavonoids and other dietary molecules target cells to impact inflammation andenergy metabolism. Dr. Belury has authored over 150 peer-reviewed publications toreveal the role of nutrients in conditions such as cancer cachexia, obesity, type 2
diabetes, psychological stress and sarcopenia. Dr. Belury has sustained 30 years of
research funding from the NIH, USDA, American Cancer Society, American Institutefor Cancer Research, private industry, and commodity groups.
Dr. Belury earned her PhD in Biological Sciences at the University of Texas in Austin.
She is an Elected Fellow in the American Association for the Advancement of Science(AAAS). In 2022, the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) awarded her with the2022 Ralph T. Holman Lifetime Achievement award for her work with dietary fats
and health.

Functional dissection of the gut microbiome for diet-induced metabolic diseases
Poshen B. Chen*1,2
1

Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore
2
Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore*Correspondence email: benson_chen@gis.a-star.edu.sg

In recent decades, changes in diet, such as the shift to high-fat diets, have been linked to the rise of chronic
metabolic diseases. However, it's challenging to persuade people to alter their eating habits. As an alternative,
therapeutic intervention is being considered to prevent or delay the onset of these diseases without requiring
significant changes to eating habits. Recently, we developed a chemical toolkit to remodel the gut microbiome
selectively. Through this approach, our data indicates that direct targeting of the gut microbiome can reduce thedevelopment of atherosclerosis without changing the diet in a preclinical mouse model. Interestingly, we also
observed the changes in gene regulation from the liver after remodeling the gut microbiome, suggesting thepotentially crucial role of the gut microbiome in host gene regulation. The liver is responsible for regulating hostmetabolism, and liver cells can adapt to different dietary conditions and respond to external signals from the gut
microbiota. This adaptability is facilitated through alterations in the transcriptomes, which are governed by cisregulatory DNA elements (CREs). I will also discuss our recent study on the intricate interactions between gut
microbiota and host gene regulation using a unique mouse model. By conducting a comprehensive examinationof human liver candidate CREs and using a deep learning model, we have identified several causal variants
related to liver diseases. Understanding how the gut microbiota regulates metabolites and host gene expression
opens up new opportunities for harnessing the therapeutic potential of the microbiome.

Keywords: atherosclerosis, gut microbiome, gene regulation, liver function

Biography
Benson Chen, PhD is the Principal Investigator of the Laboratory of
EpiMetaGenomics in the Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science,
Technology and Research (A*STAR). He received his Ph.D. from UMass Chan
Medical School. As a dedicated functional genomics lab, his group focuses ondeveloping chemical toolbox and advancing genomic technologies to investigate theintricate relationship between gut microbiome and host gene regulation. Combining
his background in chemical biology with genomics approaches, he is particularly
enthusiastic about unraveling the mechanisms involved in diet-induced metabolic
disorders.

Comprehensive analysis of microbial lipidome using untargeted mass spectrometry
Nobuyuki Okahashi*,1,2,3,4
1

2

Graduace School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University
Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University
3
Shimadzu Analytical Innovation Research Laboratories, Osaka University
4
RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences*Correspondence email: n-okahashi@ist.osaka-u.ac.jp

Gut microbiome produces unique metabolites that are structurally different from those of the mammals. Sincesuch metabolites have been suggested to affect host physiology via mammalian receptors 1), there is a need formeasurement techniques that can identify molecules that are characteristic of such microorganisms. Metabolomics
and lipidomics using mass spectrometry are promising approaches as they allow high-throughput detection of
trace amounts of molecules from complex samples. Technically, mass spectrometry-based metabolomics are
performed for limited known metabolites such as amino acids, nucleic acids, organic acids, glycerolipids andsphingolipids. However, such targeted methods risk missing unique and unknown metabolites. To overcome thedifficulty, we have developed techniques to identify metabolites and lipids produced by microorganisms using
untargeted mass spectrometry2-5). In this talk, a comprehensive measurement of lipid molecules biosynthesized in
the mouse gut microbiota will be presented. We analyzed mice feces treated with or without antibiotics cocktails
using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and detected 5960 metabolic features.
11.3% of them were annotated by known metabolite database, but 88.7% remained unknown, suggesting that gut
microbiome produced unique metabolites. Estimating the structure of unknown metabolites needs thousands ofmass spectral assignment in non-automatic way. To facilitate the time-consuming tasks, we applied feature-based
molecular networking that calculates the similarity of product ion spectra. Based on the property that moleculeswith similar structures show similar mass spectra, this analysis can group the structural analogues that show acertain level of mass spectral similarity before detailed structure estimation. The analysis showed a uniquelipidome landscape such as ceramide with β-hydroxy fatty acids, and its further esterified forms, sulfonolipids, Nacyl amides, mono/diglycosyl diacylglycerols, which are estimated as bacterial molecules. Also, we found a novel
lipid that have an ester bond of a short-chain fatty acid and a very long-chain α-hydroxy fatty acid, and named it
as Acyl-Alpha Hydroxyl Fatty Acids (AAHFA)2-3). The structure was validated by the analysis of the chemicallysynthesized compound. This untargeted mass spectrometry technology will lead to a better understanding of themechanisms of microbiome-associated host homeostasis and disease onset in the future.
References
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

Morozumi et al., BBA – Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, 1867, 159110 (2022).
Yasuda et al., iScience, 23, 101841 (2020).
Okahashi et al., STAR Protocols, 2, 100492 (2021).
Okahashi et al., Metabolites, 11, 197 (2021).
Komori et al., Journal of Bioscience and Bioengineering, 135, 102-106 (2022)

Keywords: Lipidomics, Metabolomics, Microbiome, Untargeted mass spectrometry,Biography⚫

Apr.2008–Mar.2012, BA, Department of Biotechnology, School ofEngineering, Osaka University⚫

Apr.2012–Mar.2014, MA, Department of Bioinformatic Engineering, Graduate
School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University⚫

Apr.2014–Mar.2017, Ph.D., Department of Bioinformatic Engineering,
Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University⚫

Apr.2015–Mar.2017, JSPS Research Fellow (DC2), Japan Society for the
Promotion of Science⚫

Apr.2017–Mar.2018, Postdoctoral Scientist, Riken, Center for Integrative
Medical Science.

⚫

Apr.2018–present, Visiting Scientist, Riken, Center for Integrative Medical
Science.

⚫

Apr.2018–Nov.2019, Assistant Professor, Department of BioinformaticEngineering, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka
University⚫

Dec.2019–present, Associate Professor, Department of BioinformaticEngineering, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka
University

Introducing Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Calf Diarrhea Treatment
Jahidul Islam*1, Natsuki Ohtani1,2, Junya Yamazaki3, Zen Nakamura4, Hidekazu Tanaka2, Tomonori Nochi1
1Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Japan

2

Chiba Prefectural Federated Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Chiba, Japan
3

Hokkaido Federated Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Hokkaido, Japan.

4

Okinawa Prefectural Federated Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Okinawa, Japan.
*Correspondence email: islam.jahidul.a5@tohoku.ac.jp

Calf diarrhea, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pre-weaning calves, presents significant challenges
to livestock health management. Traditional treatment with antibiotics has raised concerns about antimicrobial
resistance. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which involves transferring fecal microbiota from healthy
donors to diseased individuals, offers a promising alternative therapy aimed at restoring a balanced gut
microbiome. We investigated the efficacy of FMT in treating calf diarrhea, considering different sets ofdiarrheal recipients and various donor feces preparation methods. Firstly, we tested the efficacy of fresh feces
FMT on intractable diarrheal calves that had failed repeated antibiotic treatments, achieving a 70% success rate.
Secondly, we developed a ready-to-use donor sample, either frozen or freeze-dried, based on microbiota rather
than original feces, which showed 100% efficacy. Both approaches were initially limited to farm-specific donorrecipient pairs to avoid the transmission of virulence factors. To overcome this limitation, thirdly, we conductedcross-regional FMT using donors from three distinct regions in Japan: Hokkaido, Chiba, and Okinawa (Figure).
We selected 24 top donors out of 150 healthy samples using
machine learning approaches on our previously stored 16S rRNA
sequencing database and screened for the absence of potential
pathogens and blood parameters. The donor fecal sample (~10g)
were directly freeze-dried and used in 72 FMT trials (24recipients per region). Seven days post-FMT, overall efficacy was
76.39%, where donor-specific efficacy was 76.67% for Hokkaido
donor, 83.34% for Chiba donor, and 73.34% for Okinawa donor.
16S rRNA sequencing revealed increased alpha diversity and significant shifts in beta diversity in successful
cases. FMT reduced pathogenic Gallibacterium, Clostridium, and Campylobacter, while increasing beneficial
genera such as Blautia and Prevotella. Fecal metabolomics showed a decrease in fecal amino acids, potentiallycontributing to microbial restoration and reduced diarrheal severity. This study demonstrates that with proper
guidelines, FMT donors can be used across different farms. However, further research is needed to understandthe FMT donor-recipient relationships and to enhance FMT's success.
Keywords: Calf diarrhea, FMT, Metabolites, Microbiota

Biography
I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Laboratory of Animal Functional
Morphology at the Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University. My
research is driven by a deep interest in understanding the role of microbiota andmetabolites in host-microbiota interactions, particularly in the context of calf
diarrhea. My work is centered around the use of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation(FMT) as a treatment for calf diarrhea, where I am actively involved in a core groupdedicated to advancing this approach. Through the analysis of multi-omics data, I
have identified predictive markers based on microbiota and metabolites that may
enhance the effectiveness of FMT in clinical applications. Additionally, I am
investigating the role of host cell types, specifically immune cells and epithelial cells,in overcoming calf diarrhea, with the goal of contributing to the development ofinnovative therapeutic strategies. Beyond my work on FMT, I am also interested in
exploring how maternal immune factors influence microbiota composition in the small
and large intestines of offspring. Furthermore, I am extending my research tounderstand the survival mechanisms of long-lived plasma cells (LLPCs) in the
mammary gland during lactation and the weaning period, utilizing single-cell RNA
sequencing (scRNA-seq). My research aims to uncover fundamental insights that canlead to improved health outcomes in both livestock and broader biological contexts.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of dietary fiber pectin
Stephan Scheurer1*
1

Molecular Allergology, Vice President´s Research Group, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Federal Institute for Vaccines
and Biomedicines, Langen, Germany*Correspondence email: stephan.scheurer@pei.de

The microbiota has gained attention as a target for allergy intervention, particulary with prebiotics that canstimulate the growth and activity of certain microorganisms. Dietary fibers, which cannot be digested in thegastrointestinal tract can alter the gut microbiota and lead to increased local and systemic concentrations of gut
microbiota-derived metabolites, e.g., short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These can promote the generation of
peripheral regulatory T cells (Treg) by epigenetic modulation and suppress the inflammatory function of dendritic
cells (DCs) through transcriptional modulation. The dietary fiber pectin (a plant-derived polysaccharide
commonly used as gelling agent and dietary supplement) can alter the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes in gut
and lung microbiota, increasing the concentrations of SCFAs in feces and sera, and reducing the development of
airway inflammation by suppressing DC function. Pectin has shown immunomodulatory effects on inflammatory
diseases, including allergies, although the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
It has been hypothesized that (1) the supplementation the diet with pectin has beneficial effect on the manifestationof food allergy and (2) different types of pectin may exert immune modulatory effects through different
mechanisms. Therefore, the immunomodulatory properties of different types of pectin were investigated in a
preclinical experimental model of peach allergy.

Keywords: dietary fiber, pectin, food allergy

Biography
Stephan Scheurer, PhD• 1987-1993 Study of “Human Biology” at the Faculty of Medicine at thePhilipps University Marburg, Germany• 1993-1997 Ph.D, Division of Allergology, PEI, Langen, Germany• 1998-2007 Research Group leader at PEI, Langen,• 2007-2013 Head of Section Recombinant Allergen Therapeutics (quality control
of allergen products and allergen-derived peptides applied for allergen specificimmunotherapy)• Since 2014 Head of Section Molecular Allergology, PEI, Langen• Funding from DFG (German Research Foundation), EU (European Union), BMBF
(Federal Ministry of Education and Research), BMWi (Federal Ministry for Economic
Affairs and Energy), DAAD-JSPS (German Academic Exchange Service - Japan
Society for the Promotion of Science), FIMBAS (Fundación para la Investigación de
Málaga en Biomedicina y Salud)• 115 peer-reviewed publications, ORCID 0000-0002-2859-562X, Web of Science
Researcher ID A-6509-2019• Research focus on pathomechanism of IgE-mediated allergies, preclinicaldevelopment of recombinant allergen vaccines, preventive effect of dietary fiber on
the manifestation of allergies

Molecular biological analysis of antimicrobial peptides against pathogenic bacteria
So Shimoda, Hiroshi Yoneyama, Ryuta Tobe1*
1

Laboratory of Animal Microbiology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku university*Correspondence email: ryuta.tobe.c7@tohoku.ac.jp

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the major public health issues in the world. To
overcome this threat, development of novel antimicrobial agents is urgently required. Persulcatusin (IP), an
antimicrobial peptide (AMP) isolated from hard tick Ixodes persulcatus, exhibited potent bactericidal activity
against gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, and the antimicrobial activity of which is equivalent
to vancomycin and daptomycin. In particular, IP exhibits antibacterial activity even against AMR bacteria suchas methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA). Although IP has potential
to become a new-generation antimicrobial agents, little is known about the antibacterial and resistance mechanism.
To address this issue, we hypothesized that if any proteins relevant to these aspects lack their function by a lossof-function mutation, derivatives possessing the mutation would show hyper-susceptibility to IP as compared totheir parent strain. To identify the genes relating to IP-susceptibility, we used the Nebraska Transposon Mutant
Library (NTML) which composes of approximately 2,000 transposon insertion mutants. The NTML clones werescreened in the presence of sub-minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of IP (0.5 μg/mL) and 16 mutants withhigh susceptibility to IP were identified. The MICs of these mutants were 2 to 8-fold lower (MICs, 0.125 μg/mL– 0.5 μg/mL) than that of parent strain (MIC, 1 μg/mL). The disrupted genes of these mutants were previously
reported to be associated with resistance to antibiotics such as cationic antimicrobial peptides, nisin, daptomycin,
vancomycin, and oxacillin. Besides, we also attempted to obtain IP-resistant mutants using the serially passaging
protocol in the presence of sub-MIC levels of IP in each passage. Several IP-resistant mutants were obtained fromthe 20th passage, and a representative IP-resistant mutant (strain IPR-1) isolated from the 20th passage showed 4fold higher MIC (4 μg/mL) than that of parent strain (MIC, 1 μg/mL). IPR-1 showed 2-fold higher MICs of nisin,
daptomycin, and vancomycin than those of parent strain, while no significant change was observed insusceptibility to cefazolin, gentamycin, and ciprofloxacin. These results suggests that the antibacterial andresistance mechanism of IP is partially similar to cell-wall and cell-membrane active AMPs and antibiotics.

Keywords: antibiotics, antimicrobial peptide, Staphylococcus aureus

Biography
My name is Ryuta Tobe, and I am an associate professor of “Laboratory of
Animal Microbiology” at Tohoku University. I am interested in the diversity of
microorganisms and the metabolic mechanisms of microorganisms that are widely
found in hydrothermal vents near volcanoes, in icebergs, in the deep sea, and evenin places where there is no oxygen. Now, I am trying to develop new technologies
to control bacterial infections in livestock animals, including mastitis, by applying
microbiological and molecular biological techniques that I have developed throughvarious experiences.
I graduated from Tohoku University in 2006 with a Master's degree in thislaboratory. After getting PhD from Kyoto University, I worked as a postdoctoral
fellow at the NIH in the United States, an assistant professor at Ritsumeikan
University, and worked at Nipro Corporation before assuming my current positionin 2022. I enjoy fishing and eating the fish, and growing vegetables on a farm near
my house with my family.

Impact of gut microbial metabolites on host homeostasis
Keita Nishiyama*1
1

Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Japan.
*Correspondence email: keita.nishiyama.a6@tohoku.ac.jp

The mammalian gut harbors a diverse microbial community, that is critical to host health. The microbiota exhibits
both dynamism and stability, diversifying after initial colonization at birth and fluctuating in response to diet anddisease. By identifying the key molecules that mediate these complex and dynamic interactions, we aim to deepen
the understanding of the biological significance of the vast bacterial populations inhabiting the human and animalgut. Our study uses pigs as a model to investigate the formation and stability of bacterial communities in neonates,
focusing on how the bacterial metabolism of milk oligosaccharides, particularly sialic acid, affects bacterialcolonization and the gut environment. In addition, an ex vivo pig fecal culture model was used to explore bioactive
compounds produced by bacterial metabolism of feed. The search for aromatic compounds in the fecal culture
medium identified several candidates as ligands for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. We will discuss bacteria-hostinteractions from a microbiological perspective, focusing on the changes that diet induces in the microbialcommunity.

Keywords: Gut microbiome, Homeostasis, Metabolite, Pig, Milk oligosaccharides

Biography
Keita Nishiyama is Associate Professor in Laboratory of Animal Food Function,
Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University. He received his Ph.D.
(2015) from Kitasato University in the field of applied microbiology under thesupervision of Prof. Takao Mukai. He started working at Laboratory ofMicrobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy in same university in 2015 as an AssistantProfessor under Prof. Nobuhiko Okada. In 2019, he moved to the Department ofMicrobiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine led by Prof.
Kenya Honda and was appointed a Lecturer. In 2022, he moved to Graduate Schoolof Agricultural Science, Tohoku University. His current research focuses on themolecular mechanisms of intestinal colonization of symbiotic bacteria in humans
and livestock.

The commensal gut bacteria-derived peptidoglycan fragment, GlcNAc-MurNAc (GM)disaccharide, confers immunomodulatory and protective effects via TLR4 signaling
Chenyu Li1, Chris Adamson1, Allan Ng Wee Ren1, Yaquan Liang1, Zebin Hong2, Jia Tong Loh3, Jeric Kwan
Mun Chung1, Shiliu Feng1, Evan Ng Wei Long1, Nair Sajith Kumar3, Christiane Ruedl3, Yuan Qiao*1
1

21 Nanyang Link, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB), NTU, S637371.
2
61 Biopolis Drive, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology andResearch (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, S138648.
3
60 Nanyang Drive, School of Biological Sciences (SBS), NTU, S637551*Correspondence email: yuan.qiao@ntu.edu.sg

Gut microbiota-derived peptidoglycan fragments (PGNs) are key signaling molecules that regulate multiple
aspects of the host’s health. Yet the exact structures of natural PGNs in hosts have not been fully elucidated.
Herein, we developed an LC-HRMS/MS analytical platform for global quantification and profiling of natural
PGN subtypes in host gut and sera, unexpectedly revealing the abundance of saccharide-only PGN motifs in hoststhat do not resemble canonical ligands of classic mammalian NOD1/2 sensors. Focusing on the disaccharide
GlcNAc-MurNAc (GM), a natural PGN that does not stimulate NOD receptors yet still exhibits robust
immunostimulatory effects in immune cells, we unambiguously established GM as a TLR4 agonist, which adds
to the growing understanding of NOD-independent sensing mechanisms of PGNs in hosts. Importantly, theadministration of GM to mice effectively protects them against colonic inflammations in the colitis model,
highlighting the in vivo significance of GM-induced TLR4 signaling for maintaining host intestinal homeostasis.

Keywords:
Gut microbiota, peptidoglycan fragments, immuno-modulatory, TLR4, intestinal inflammation

Biography
Yuan Qiao is a Nanyang Assistant Professor in Nanyang Technological
University (NTU), Singapore. Her lab applies chemical biology tools to study thechemical underpinnings of gut microbiota-host crosstalk. In particular, the lab
currently focuses on the structures and functions of gut microbiota-derived
peptidoglycan fragments (PGNs) as the microbiota effector molecule in hosts.
Yuan received PhD in Chemical Biology working with Dan Kahne and SuzanneWalker at Harvard University and completed her postdoc training with Prof Yue
Wang at IMCB, A*STAR Singapore. She was a recipient of the A*STAR
National Science Scholarship in Singapore (2007-2016), and the National Research
Foundation Fellowship (NRFF) Class of 2020.

Modulation of the gut-lung axis by the microbiota and probiotics: impact on the respiratory
trained immunity and the resistance to infections
Julio Villena*1
1

Laboratory of Immunobiotechnology, Reference Centre for Lactobacilli (CERELA-CONICET), San Miguel deTucuman, Tucuman, Argentina*Correspondence email: jcvillena@cerela.org.ar

Research from the last two decades has reported the impact of the intestinal microbiota on the
respiratory immunity through the modulation of the so-called gut-lung axis. It was conclusively demonstrated
how the variations in the intestinal microbiota affect the responses of respiratory epithelial cells and antigen
presenting cells against respiratory pathogen´s attack. Moreover, the selection of specific microbial strains(immunobiotics) with the ability to modulate immunity in distal mucosal sites made possible the development offunctional foods and feeds to strengthen respiratory defenses. In this talk, the knowledge on the cellular andmolecular mechanisms involved in the improvement of respiratory defenses by the intestinal microbiota andorally administered beneficial immunobiotic microorganisms such as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus CRL1505
will be revised. Orally administered L. rhamnosus CRL1505 stimulates Th1 response in the intestinal mucosa
and induces the mobilization of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ T cells from the intestine to the respiratory tract, where
they stimulate alveolar macrophages (AMs). The CRL1505 strain activates AMs and enhances their ability to
produce type I interferons and IFN-γ in response to primary viral infection and secondary pneumococcal
pneumonia. The depletion of AMs by the time of L. rhamnosus CRL1505 administration abolishes its ability toenhance protection against infections. AMs from CRL1505-treated mice have an increased capacity to produceof IL-6 and IL-27, which increases the maturation and activation of Treg cells and their subsequent productionof IL-10. In this way, AMs play an important role in limiting inflammation and protecting lung function duringrespiratory infections. Interestingly, data show that during the improved response to primary viral infection
induced by CRL1505 administration, there is a generation of trained AMs that enhances protection against
secondary bacterial infection. Characteristics of trained macrophages such as enhanced expression of MHC-II,
improved ability to produce cytokines and chemokines against related and unrelated challenges, metabolic
reprograming and long-term protection were demonstrated in AMs from CRL1505-treated mice. The results
open the door for future research that provides the scientific basis for the development of immunomodulatory
foods that allow modulating the gut-ling axis and the respiratory trained immunity to enhance resistance against
infections.

Keywords: gut-lung axis, immunity to infections, probiotics, L. rhamnosus CRL1505, innate immune memory

Biography
Doctor Julio Villena is a Principal Researcher of the National Council of Scientificand Technological Research (CONICET-Argentina) working in the Laboratory of
Immunobiotechnology of the Reference Center for Lactobacilli (CERELACONICET) in Tucuman, Argentina. Dr. Villena is biochemist from the Faculty ofBiochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Tucuman and Doctor in
Biochemistry (Immunology-Microbiology) of the University of Tucuman. He wasawarded a Postdoctoral Fellowship for Foreign Researchers from the Japan Society
for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) to work in the Graduate School of Agricultural
Science of Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan. He works in collaboration withresearchers of Tohoku University since then. He has also participated several times as
invited professor to give special lectures in the International Center for Food andAgricultural Immunology (CFAI). His research activities are focused on the study ofthe cellular and molecular interactions of immunobiotics with the host and the effectsof those interactions on the resistance against infections in humans and animals. The
complex interactions of beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms are studied in the
respiratory and the intestinal mucosa with special focus in pattern recognition
receptors and their signaling pathways. Dr. Villena applies modern genetic andgenomic tools to gain insight into the mechanisms of action of immunobiotics. His
research has given the scientific basis for the development of functional foods andfeeds using immunomodulatory probiotics. His more recent research projects are
dedicated to the study of the effect of microbiota and immunobiotics to improve
immune health by modulating innate immune memory conferring long term protection
against infections.

Food Security: What Should We Consider for Japan’s Future
in a Changing Global Environment
Seiji Mitsuishi*1

1

Department of Food Management
The Graduate School of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Miyagi University

2*Correspondence email: mitsuisi@myu.ac.jp

Abstract
In recent years, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent rise in fertilizer and feed prices have raised
concern about food security in Japan. The reality is that the international community typically targets developing
countries for this issue, leading to the misconception that countries like Japan are not affected.
At the same time, the concept of food security has been changing from the national level to the individual level
over time. In response, the Food, Agriculture and Rural Areas Basic Law was revised in Japan, and “Ensuring
food security” was clearly stated.
However, today’s Japan depends on a very small number of producers and a large number of grain imports tomeet its needs. The necessary food has been procured through productivity improvements in related domestic
sectors, and imports backed by strong purchasing power. This food system has functioned well over the past halfcentury, but it raises questions about sustainability and the future of rice, which has been, and continues to be, a
staple food of the Japanese people.
This presentation offers some insights on how Japan can enhance its food security both now and in the future.

Keywords: food security, food system, sustainability, rice

Biography

Seiji Mitsuishi

Professor at Miyagi University
Specialized in business strategy, and food and agribusiness management.
He worked for JA Zen-Noh for 21 years and was involved in international
grain trade, business planning, and management of overseas subsidiaries.
He has served as a member of the Council of Food, Agriculture and Rural
Area Policy of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (until
2017), and the Council for Customs, Tariff, Foreign Exchange, etc. of the
Ministry of Finance.
Professor Mitsuishi received a B.A. from Tokyo University of Foreign
Studies, an MBA from Harvard University as well as an M.A. from the
University of Tsukuba, and a Ph.D. in Business Administration from
Kobe University.

Your photo

Potential of edible insects as alternative novel food and feed resources
Masaru Ochiai*1
1

School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University*Correspondence email: mochiai@vmas.kitasato-u.ac.jp

The growing world population will require available resources to meet the nutritional needs of animals
and humans and ensure food security. Livestock meat, milk, and chicken egg with high protein content,
adequate amino acid balance, high digestibility, and high palatability are massively used, but their foodproduction depends on foreign feed resources due to a low domestic self-sufficiency rate. Therefore, there is aneed to develop alternative food and feed materials that are self-sufficient and sustainable, and edible insects
have been increasingly recommended in recent years.
More than 2,100 different species of edible insects are consumed worldwide, and some species (migratory
locust, cricket, and mealworm) have been recognized by EFSA as safe edible materials in the EU. Considering
the use of edible insects in the food and feed markets, the nutritional and functional properties, which are notfully understood yet, need to be clarified.
We have previously reported the safety, nutritional, and functional properties of some commercial edible
insect powders [1]—[5]. In particular, edible migratory locusts contained some glycerophospholipids linked to n3 α-linolenic acids (C18:3) [2] and several other lipid species [unpublished data]. We have shown that dietary
supplementation of migratory locusts in diet improves plasma lipid levels by improving lipoprotein and fatty
acid metabolism and suppressing hepatic lipogenesis in rats [4] [unpublished data].
On the other hand, the protein quality is controversial. The protein content, calculated by using thenitrogen-to-protein conversion factor, is overestimated by the dietary fiber chitin in insects, and in addition, theamino acid score and intestinal digestibility are not superior to existing protein resources [5].
These findings suggest that migratory locusts are expected to be additional and functional materials toimprove lipid metabolism, although many issues, such as disgust and resistance to eating insects, need to besolved for the popularization of edible insects and their markets.

References (our publications)
1.

J. Food Sci., 85, 279-88. (2020).

2.

J. Food Compos. Anal., 99, 103869. (2021).

3.

J. Asia-Pacific Entomol., 23, 1138-43 (2021).

4.

Food Chem., 396, 133701 (2022).

5.

Food Chem., 454, 139781 (2024).

Keywords: alternative resources; edible insects; functions; nutrients; unsaturated fatty acids

Biography✓

March 2008, Master’s degree (The Graduate School of Agriculture, Kagawa
University, Japan)✓

From April 2008 to September 2011, FANCL Corporation (general researcher)✓

September 2014, Doctor’s degree (The United Graduate School of Agricultural
Sciences, Ehime University, Japan) (Ph.D. (Agriculture))✓

From January 2015 to the present, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato
University, Japan.

Researchmap information: https://researchmap.jp/ochiaimasaru

Risk assessment of dietary exposure to environmental disruptor chemicals and human health
Kai-Wei Liao1, Wen-Harn Pan2, Mei-Lien Chen3
Affiliations
School of Food Safety, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan;
2
Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taiwan;
3
Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao
Tung University, Taiwan.
1*Correspondence email: kaiwei.liao@tmu.edu.tw
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are an increasing global public health concern, as exposure tothese chemicals may elevate the risk of chronic diseases. Diet plays a significant role in EDCs exposure.
Acrylamide (AA), parabens (PBs), and bisphenol A (BPA) all present endocrine-disrupting potential. Using datafrom the Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT) conducted over several years, we examined theassociations between dietary patterns, urinary EDC concentrations, and assessed the health risks of exposure in
the general population of Taiwan. Urinary concentrations of AA metabolite [N-acetyl-S-(propionamide)-cysteine(AAMA)], three PBs (methyl-paraben, ethyl-paraben, and propyl-paraben), and BPA were analyzed using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Multiple regression
analysis was used to examine the associations between AA metabolites, PBs, BPA levels, and dietary patterns. A
Monte Carlo simulation was performed to generate the probability distribution for the general population acrossdifferent age groups. Our findings indicate that the Taiwanese population remains widely exposed to AA, which
is significantly associated with processed food consumption in children and adolescents. Additionally, while there
was no significant risk from PB exposure in any age group, daily BPA intake exceeded the tolerable daily intake
for all age groups, indicating potential health risks. This nationally representative study underscores the need forregulatory measures to address BPA exposure and suggests continued monitoring of AA and PB exposure in
future research.

Keywords: Acrylamide, Bisphenol A, Endocrine Disruptor Chemicals, Risk Assessment, Parabens.

Biography
Academic BackgroundPh.D. Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences,
National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. (2010~2015)
M.S. School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan. (2008~2010)

Work Experience
Associate Professor, School of Food Safety, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University (2023~)
Assistant Professor, School of Food Safety, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University (2019~2023)
Post-doctoral Research Fellow, National Health Research Institutes,
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Miaoli, Taiwan. (2016~2019)
Director of the Taiwan Society for Risk Analysis (2023~)

Research Interests
Trace Elements, Endocrine Disruptor Chemicals, Risk Analysis, Environmental Epidemiology, Human
Biomonitoring.

Selected Publications (2022-2024)•

Lin ST, Liao KW, Xuan TC, Chiou TY, Lin ZE, Lee WJ*. Determination, distribution, and health risk assessment of 12 heavy
metals in various edible oils in Taiwan. JSFA Reports. 2024; 4:175–183.

•

Liao KW*, Lee WJ, Lin SC, Tsao YN, Lin HY, Liu C, Chin WS. Probabilistic risk assessment for determining non-essential
metals in commercial infant formula products in Taiwan. Journal of Food Science. 2024; 89:1804–1813.

•

Chin WS, Chang CH, Say YH, Chuang YN, Wang JN, Kao HC, Liao KW*. The occurrence and probabilistic risk of exposure toparabens from bottled and hand‑shaken teas in the general adult population of Taiwan. Environmental Science and Pollution
Research. 2024 Jan;31(3):4518-4527.

•

Chang YH, Liao KW, Lin ZE, Lee WJ*. Preliminary assessments of population exposure to glycidyl esters and 3monochloropropane-1,2-diol esters from miscellaneous oil-containing packaged foods in Taiwan. Food Chemistry. 2023, Jul(430):137055•

Liao KW, Chen PC, Chou WC, Shiue I, Huang HI, Chang WT, Huang PC*. Human biomonitoring reference values, exposure
distribution, and characteristics of metals in the general population of Taiwan: Taiwan environmental survey for Toxicants(TESTs), 2013-2016. International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health. Volume 252, July 2023, 114195.

•

Chin WS, Chien LC, Kao HC, Chuang YN, Liao KW*. Monitoring and evaluating the dietary risk of trace elements content inbottled and hand‑shaken tea in Taiwan. Environmental Science and Pollution Research. 2023 Apr;30(19):55716-55729.

•

Liao KW*, Chien LC, Chen YC, Kao HC. Sex‐specific differences in early renal impairment associated with arsenic, lead, andcadmium exposure among young adults in Taiwan. Environmental Science and Pollution Research. 2022 Mar; 29:52655–52664.

•

Jiang CB, Kao CS, Chien LC, Chen YJ, Liao KW*. Associations among prenatal and postnatal arsenic, lead, and cadmium
exposure and motor development in three-years-old children: A longitudinal birth cohort study in Taiwan. Environmental
Science and Pollution Research. 2022 Jun; 29(28):43191-43200.

• Liao KW, Lo WL, Hsu CY, Chiu WC, Wu CH, Chen YW, Hsu PC, Huang HY*. Predictive model for oral status in elderly people
in a Taiwanese nursing home using a high-protein black soybean koji food. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2022 Apr 14; 9: 814315.

• Liao KW, Chang FC, Chang CH, Huang YF, Pan WH, Chen ML*. Associating acrylamide internal exposure with dietary patternand health risk in the general population of Taiwan. Food Chemistry. 2022 (374): 131653.

Approaches to understanding and improving photosynthetic robustness
Shinya Wada*1, Hayato Sato2, and Chikahiro Miyake2

Affiliations
Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University
2
Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University

1*Correspondence email: shinya.wada.b3@tohoku.ac.jp

We are in the midst of what has been called the global boiling. Climate change is causing many extreme
weather events and affecting food production. Therefore, stable food production has become an urgent issue for
agricultural science. In plants, environmental stresses such as drought and temperature can cause oxidative damage
to the photosynthetic machinery and ultimately inhibit plant growth. Under environmental stress conditions, plants
close their stomata, which causes a depletion of CO2 in the leaves. Then, chloroplasts result in an excess of lightenergy, which can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species. Plants are sessile and must survive in a varietyof natural environments. The robustness of plants is proof of their ability to withstand environmental changes.
However, the mechanisms of such robustness are still poorly understood. Understanding and improving plantrobustness is thought to be one approach to ensuring stable food production in the face of increasingly severe
environmental condition in the future. In this symposium, we will introduce the mechanism for photosynthetic
robustness in higher plants and the research into improving plant robustness.

Keywords: Oxidative stress, Photosynthesis, Photorespiration

Biography
Shinya Wada is an associate professor in the Laboratory of Plant Nutrition
laboratory at Tohoku University since 2024. His work focuses onphotosynthesis, particularly oxidative stress in plants. His hobby is creating
moss terrariums.

Associate Professor, Tohoku University

2024-

Assistant Professor, Kobe University

2019

Assistant Professor, Iwate University

2017

Assistant Professor, Tohoku University

2012

JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research abroad

2011(Zurich University, Switzerland)
PhD in Agriculture (Tohoku University)

March 2009Your photoPreparation and characterization of plant cellulose nanofibers, and their applications
as new bionanomaterials to functional and commodity materials
Akira Isogai
Department of Biomaterial Sciences, The University of Tokyo*Correspondence email: akira-isogai@g.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp

The development of green and sustainable routes to liberate crystalline cellulose microfibrils from plant
cell walls is of utmost importance to enable development of the large-scale production of sustainable
nanomaterials based on renewable resources. The catalytic oxidation of cellulose using 2,2,6,6tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO) under aqueous conditions at room temperature is a new positionselective and efficient chemical modification. TEMPO-mediated oxidation of plant cellulose fibers, followed bygentle mechanical disintegration of the oxidized celluloses in water, results in the formation of TEMPO-oxidized
cellulose nanofibers (TEMPO-CNFs) with homogeneous widths (~3 nm) and high aspect ratios. TEMPO-CNFs
are characteristic bio-based materials with high tensile strengths and elastic moduli. Sodium carboxylate groups
are densely present on the crystalline CNF surfaces and can undergo counterion exchange from sodium to othermetal or alkylammonium ions under aqueous conditions. The hydrophilic/hydrophobic, stable/biodegradable,super deodorant, catalytic, and other functionalities of CNFs can be controlled through counterion exchange. Thus,
TEMPO-CNFs as well as the fibrous TEMPO-oxidized cellulose fibers (before nanofibrillation) are promisingnanomaterials that can be prepared from the abundant wood biomass resources present in Japan. Increased
production and use of TEMPO-CNFs would stimulate a new material stream from forestry to industries, helping
to establish a sustainable society based on wood biomass resources.

~0.4 nm widths~500 nm lengths

Cellulose
microfibril
3-nm widthSingle fiber orpulp fiber

Microfibrillated
cellulose

Cellulose
molecule

Cellulose
nano-networks

TEMPO-catalyzed
oxidation

Tree

Width: 20‒30 µm
Length: 1‒3 mm

Cellulose
microfibril
bundles

Subsequentmechanicaldisintegration in
water

Cellulose
nanofibers, CNFs

Cellulose nanocrystals,
CNCs

Width > 15 nm

Wood tissue~3 nm widths
Length > 500 µm
Crystallinity ~70 %Wood

Keywords: cellulose nanofiber, nanocomposite, SEC/MALLS, TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation

Biography
1980: Bachelor from The University of Tokyo
1985: Ph.D from The University of Tokyo
1985-1986: Post-doctoral fellow, The Institute of Paper Chemistry,
Appleton, WI, USA
1986-1994: Research Associate, The University of Tokyo
1989-1990: Visiting Scientist, Forest Products Laboratory, USDA, Madison,
WI, USA
1994-2003: Associate Professor, The University of Tokyo
2003-2020: Professor, The University of Tokyo
2016: Honorable Doctor of Science in Technology from Aalto University, Finland2020-present: Special Research Professor, The University of Tokyo

Marcus Wallenberg Prize, from Wallenberg Foundation, Sweden (2015)
Anselme Payen Award, from American Chemical Society (2015)
Honda Prize, from Honda Foundation (2016)
Fujihara Prize, from Fujihara Foundation of Science (2017)
Japan Academy Prize, from the Japan Academy (2019)
Esaki-Reona Prize, from Esaki-Reona Science Foundation (2023)

What the analysis of triacylglycerol hydroperoxide isomers in foods can reveal
Shunji Kato
1
2

J-Oil Mills Innovation, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University
Food Function Analysis, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University*Correspondence email: shunji.kato.b5@tohoku.ac.jp

Triacylglycerol (TG), the main component of edible oil, is oxidized by thermal- (radical) or photo(singlet oxygen (1O2)) oxidation to form TG hydroperoxide (TGOOH) as the primary oxidation product. Since
TGOOH and its subsequent oxidation products cause not only the deterioration of oil quality but also various
toxicities, preventing the excessive oxidation of edible oils is essential. Therefore, understanding oxidation
mechanisms that cause the formation of TGOOH is necessary (e.g. radical oxidation is effectively suppressed bytocopherol). Isomeric information of TGOOH provides insights about oil oxidation mechanisms (i.e., radicaland 1O2-oxidation). We recently observed the hydroperoxide-position specific fragmentations based on cation-πinteraction on mass spectrometry1. Using this phenomenon, highly selective analytical method for TGOOH
isomers was developed. This method clearly distinguished the mechanisms that contributes to edible oils
oxidation2.
Importantly, these isomeric structures provide the insights about not only oxidation mechanisms but also
the structure of secondary oxidation products. Recently, we constructed the generation pathways of certain
secondary oxidation products based on some factors such as the structure of lipid hydroperoxide isomers, radicaldelocalization, and the stability of resulted compounds3. These pathways precisely predicted the resulted
secondary oxidation products such as acrolein.
Therefore, these methods and insights would be valuable in the understanding of oil and food oxidation
mechanisms, and may be applied to the development of preventive methods against food deterioration. In this
symposium, I will introduce these analytical methods and obtained results.

1) S. Kato et al., Structural analysis of lipid hydroperoxides using mass spectrometry with alkali metals. J. Am. Soc. Mass
Spectrom., 32, 2399-2409 (2021)
2) S. Kato et al., Determination of triacylglycerol oxidation mechanisms in canola oil using liquid chromatography-tandem
mass spectrometry. Science of Food, 2, 1 (2018).
3) S. Kato et al., Determination of acrolein generation pathways from linoleic acid and linolenic acid: Increase in acrolein
generation by photo irradiation. Science of Food, 12, 21 (2022)

Keywords: (Lipid oxidation, Mass spectrometry, Lipid hydroperoxide isomers)

Biography
Shunji Kato, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Graduate School of
Agricultural Science, Tohoku University. He received his PhD from Tohoku
University in 2014. His primary research focuses on the analysis of lipid oxidation
products in food and biological samples. Recently, his interests have expanded tounderstanding lipid oxidation mechanisms using quantum chemistry.

Novel porous microbial polymer for functional packaging applications
Shin-Ping Lin*1,2,3,4, Anita Chandra Kusuma1, and Yu-Chieh Chou2
12

School of Food Safety, Taipei Medical University
Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, Taipei Medical University
3
Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University
4
TMU Research Center for Digestive Medicine, Taipei Medical University*Correspondence email: splin0330@tmu.edu.tw

Food spoilage is a prevalent issue that extends beyond the food industry, impacting our daily lives. Each
year, a significant amount of food, equivalent to one-third of global production for human consumption, goes towaste due to spoilage. Spoiling is caused by bacteria and various fungi, resulting in detrimental consequences
for consumers, including food poisoning and foodborne infections. As a result, there is a growing demand forpreserved convenience foods that offer improved freshness and quality. To address this challenge, preventive
measures, such as the adoption of active packaging, can be implemented. Active packaging refers to theintegration of specific elements into the packaging system that either release or absorb substances from thepacked food or its surrounding environment. This technique aims to extend the shelf life of products andmaintain their quality and safety. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a biodegradable nanoscale film produced by
microorganisms, which possesses great mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In the first stage of study,
we tried to establish the in-situ modification technique utilizing foaming medium with different additives to
produce foaming BC (FBC). The result showed that the FBC with different additive can provide superior stable
swelling ratio (91%-93%) in contrast to the swelling ratio of normal BC that decreased from 73%-77% to 44%67%. In addition, the FBC also presented the great cell proliferation and non-cytotoxicity. In the second part, theagar was used to combine with FBC to form the agar/FBC. The agar addition in FBC system can not only
regulate the pore size of FBC, but also provide high swelling ability (94.7%~97.9%) compared to BC (92.2%
and 96.1%). Last but not least, the 1.5% agar/FBC was used as scaffold to be loaded with carvacrol. The result
demonstrated that 1.5% agar/FBC with carvacrol group exhibited the significantly highest antimicrobial
properties against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, release measurements showed that
greater agar addition contributed to higher protein and carvacrol release extents out of the film. Finally, a sea
bass packaging test indicated that carvacrol with 1.5% agar/FBC presented a higher antimicrobial ability against
Shewanella putrefaciens, great inhibition of lipid oxidation (67.5%), and a slower spoilage degree (49.8%)
which suggested that agar/FBC with carvacrol has potential for functional food packaging.

Keywords: microbial polymer, foaming bacterial cellulose; functional packaging, food spoilage.

Biography
Shin-Ping Lin, Ph.D.
Associate Professor

Education:
Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University

Experience:•

2015-2016: Visiting scholar at Pennsylvania State University, USA•

2017-2019: Worked in the industry, primarily responsible for the development of diagnostic reagents andthe establishment of fermentation processes•

2019-Present: Joined the School of Food Safety, Taipei Medical University

Research Interests:
Prof. Lin’s research focuses on the detoxification of agricultural waste hydrolysate using cold-plasma and its reusein microbial fermentation. Additionally, he explores the pigments produced from microorganisms utilizing
biosynthesis engineering and the application of microbial polysaccharides in packaging materials and wounddressings.

Awards:•Young Scholar Award from Taipei Medical University in 2023•

University-Level Excellent Teaching Award in 2024•

University-Level Outstanding Advisor Award in 2024.

Professional Service:
Apart from his research, Prof. Lin is actively involved in academic service, having served as the Deputy SecretaryGeneral of the Taiwan Food Science and Technology Society and the Deputy Secretary-General of the Probiotic
Association of Taiwan.

Reproductive engineering research in bivalves as sustainable seafoodKazue Nagasawa
Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University,
Sendai, Miyagi, Japan*Correspondence email: kazue.nagasawa.d6@tohoku.ac.jp

Bivalves have been a symbol of fecundity since the Roman Empire, and their reproductive system, in which abivalve can produce a large number of gametes, makes them an interesting subject for reproductive research. Ourlaboratory has been working on various approaches to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of germ cell
development/differentiation and sex determination/differentiation in commercially important marine bivalves inJapan. Specifically, our recent attempts developed primary culture, overexpression system, and germ cellmanipulation technique for bivalve cells. These techniques would enable us to open any gene functional analysis
in bivalves. In the last decade, we have constructed various experiment techniques designed for the bivalve species
such as microinjection, primary culture system, transfection, graft, and germ cell transplantation. We developed
most experiment techniques using Yesso scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis a known common seafood. During the
groundwork, we found this species has several advantages as a model organism for reproductive engineeringresearch. For instance, it has a massive, discrete, and separate gonad with gonochoristic characteristics.
Intriguingly, the gonads show a typical germinal cyst structure of a batch spawner of fish. Especially, it possesses
high phenotypic stability of sex among bivalves, implying that its sex is under strict genetic control. As a big
achievement, we recently developed an overexpression system with bivalve cells using a strong viral promoter
derived from a bivalve-infectious virus, ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1). From the previous 10 years of research,
we obtained various tools to analyze reproductive physiology in bivalves. Our further research would explore themysterious world of reproductive mechanisms in marine bivalves yet to be revealed.

Keywords: Bivalve, germline stem cells, sex differentiation, gene transfer, primary culture
References:
1. Nagasawa K.*, Kanamori M., Yoon J., Kobayashi M., Mokrina M., Kato T., Osada M. (2023) Hemocytesof Yesso scallop characterized by cytological, molecular marker, and functional analyses. Fish and
Shellfish Immunology 137:108751.
2. Yoon J., Gu W., Konuma M., Kobayashi M., Yokoi H., Osada M., Nagasawa K.* (2022) Gene delivery
available in molluscan cells by strong promoter discovered from bivalve-infectious virus. Proceedings of the
National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 119(45):e2209910119.
3. Mokrina M., Nagasawa K.*, Kanamori M., Natsuike M., Osada M. (2021) Seasonal composition of immature
germ cells in the Yesso scallop identified by vasa-like gene (my-vlg) and protein expression, with evidence of
irregular germ cell differentiation accompanied with a high mortality event. Aquaculture Reports, 19,100613.

Biography
Kazue Nagasawa is Associate Professor at the Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology,
Tohoku University. He obtained his PhD in Marine Biosciences in 2009 on the germ
cell studies for the identification of fish germ cell marker in applying for surrogate
bloodstock system. After receiving a PhD degree from Tokyo University of Marine
Science and Technology, he worked at Nord University (Norway) and Tohoku
Ecosystem-Associated Marine Sciences (TEAMS) Project before assuming his
current position. In his research career, he has been engaged in basic physiologicalresearch on germ cells of fish and bivalves, and has been attracted to the study of
undifferentiated germ cells and germline stem cells, which are the source cells of gametes that give rise to
individuals. In particular, in recent years, he has been studying the mechanisms of maintenance and sexual
differentiation of germline stem cells in bivalves used industrially in the field of aquaculture, such as scallops,
oysters, clams and mussels. As a research approach, he specializes in gene transfer and gene expression analysis,
and is currently working on cell transplantation and cell culture of bivalve species. With applied technology basedon these basic findings, he aims to develop a technological theory for highly efficient and sustainable productionof aquaculture organisms.

Biosynthesis and metabolism of the water-soluble marine toxins
Mari Yotsu-Yamashita*
Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tohoku University*Correspondence email: mari.yamashita.c1@tohoku.ac.jp

The pufferfish toxin, tetrodotoxin (TTX), and the paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) including
saxitoxin (STX) as the representative toxin, are the major marine neurotoxins that potentially cause
lethal food poisonings. In Japan, as well as other many countries, PSTs in seafoods are regulated bygovernment. These toxins are potent and specific blockers of voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav).
TTX is detected in wide range of marine animals, such as crabs, octopus, snails, and so on. Recently,
TTX has been identified in economically important bivalves including scallops in several area of theworld. Despite of high interest in biosynthetic gene of TTX, it has not yet been discovered. Tos
approach this issue, we have been trying to find natural analogues of TTX and its related compounds
from marine animals. Comparison of the chemical structures of the obtained these compounds impliedthat stepwise and multiple oxidation reactions are involved in TTX biosynthesis in the marine
environments. For PSTs, the putative genes of STX biosynthesis have been reported from the toxin
producing cyanobacteria, and some are also found from dinoflagellates. Several STX biosynthetic
enzymes have been heterologously expressed and their possible functions have been identified by othergroups. However, the process of formation of the tricyclic skeleton of STX and order of the oxidation
steps in the ring and the side chain remained unclear. To solve this issue, we chemically synthesized
putative biosynthetic intermediates of STX and identified
them in the toxin producing dinoflagellates andcyanobacterium, as well as performed the incorporation
experiments using the stable isotope labeled compounds.
In this symposium, our recent results on biosynthesis andmetabolism of TTX1−3) and PSTs4,5) are presented.
References
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

N. Ueyama, K. Sugimoto, Y. Kudo, K. Onodera, Y. Cho, K. Konoki, T. Nishikawa, M. Yotsu-Yamashita, Chem. Eur. J.
24, 7250–7258 (2018).
Y. Yaegashi, Y. Kudo, N. Ueyama, K. Onodera, Y. Cho, K. Konoki, M. Yotsu-Yamashita, J. Nat. Prod. 85, 2199–2206(2022).
S. Numano, Y. Kudo, Y. Cho, K. Konoki, M. Yotsu-Yamashita, Mar. Drugs, 17(12), 653 (2019).
M. Hakamada, C. Tokairin, H. Ishizuka, K. Adachi, T. Osawa, S. Aonuma, R. Hirozumi, S. Tsuchiya, Y. Cho, Y. Kudo,
K. Konoki, Y. Oshima, K. Nagasawa, M. Yotsu-Yamashita, Chem. Eur. J. e202304238 (2024).
S. Numano, Y. Kudo, Y. Cho, K. Konoki, Y. Kaga, K. Nagasawa, M. Yotsu-Yamashita, Chemosphere, 278, 130224(2021).

Keywords: tetrodotoxin, saxitoxin, paralytic shellfish toxins, biosynthesis, metabolism

Biography
Mari Yotsu-Yamashita received her Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Tohoku
University in 1984 and started working as a junior researcher (technical official)
therein. She received her Ph.D. in Agriculture in 1989 from Tohoku University under
the supervision of Prof. Takeshi Yasumoto. She stayed in Department of Chemistry,
Ohio State University, as a Visiting Scholar, to study synthesis under the direction ofProf. Viresh H. Rawal during 1994-1995. She was promoted to associated professorof Tohoku University in 1998 (Prof. Teruo Miyazawa’s group), and then to full
professor in 2004. Her research is mainly focused on chemistry and biochemistry of
biologically active natural products, especially marine natural toxins, through isolation, structural determination,biosynthesis, mode of action, and development of analytical method.

Characterization and detection of allergenic proteins in novel food and seafood
Yi-Tien Chen*1

1

Affiliations
School of Food Safety, Taipei Medical University*Correspondence email: ytc@tmu.edu.tw

As the global population increases, the demand for alternative protein sources and seafood is also rising. Edible
insect is a sustainable and valuable alternative protein source. Edible insects have been approved by theEuropean Union as novel food and have related food products in the global markets. However, there is apotential allergic risk associated with consuming edible insects. Fish and mollusks are common seafood andfood allergens as well. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand the characteristics of allergenic proteinsin these foods and develop assays for detecting the allergenic proteins. The research focuses on thecharacterization of allergenic proteins in fish, comparison of fish allergenic proteins, and development of
immunoassay for the detection of fish and its products. Additionally, we developed an immunoassay for
detecting common mollusks, including cephalopods, gastropods, and bivalves. This mollusks-specificimmunoassay successfully detected the mollusk samples subjected to various food processing methods and allcommercial mollusk products tested. To develop the immunoassay for detecting edible insects, we investigatedthe effects of food processing on the allergenic proteins of edible insects and developed the insect-specificantibody. The outcomes of these studies broaden understanding of allergenic proteins in seafood and novel food,and provide reliable tools for protecting allergic individuals.

Keywords: edible insects, fish, food allergen, mollusks

Biography
Dr. Yi-Tien Chen is an associate professor in the School of Food Safety at Taipei
Medical University, where he has been a faculty member since 2017. He received his
Ph.D. in Food and Nutrition Sciences from Florida State University in 2012. His
research primarily focuses on food allergens, emphasizing the development ofinnovative antibodies and immunoassays for the detection of fish, mollusks, andedible insects. His work is crucial in elucidating the characteristics of allergenic
proteins, thereby developing reliable assays that enhance food safety and protect
consumers with food allergies. He has published peer-reviewed articles in journals,
including Food Chemistry, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, and Food Control. In recognition of his
significant contributions to the scientific community, Dr. Chen has received prestigious honors and awards,
including full membership in Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society in 2024, and the J. Mac Goepfert
Developing Scientist Award from the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) in 2010. Through his
dedication to research and education, Dr. Chen continues to advance the field of food safety and allergen research.

Targeting Nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for
Uterine Leiomyoma Progression
Yi-Fen Chiang1, Ko-Chieh Huang1, Shih-Min Hsia1, *Affiliations
School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University*Correspondence email: bryanhsia@tmu.edu.tw

1

Uterine leiomyoma (UL), commonly referred to as benign tumors, is characterized by excessive cellproliferation, extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation, and the presence of stem cell-like properties.
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) metabolism, regulated in part by nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), plays a crucial role in these pathological processes and has emerged as a potential
therapeutic target. Additionally, redox signaling pathways are integral to the pathogenesis of UL, influencing the
dynamics of NAD+ metabolism. This study sought to elucidate the regulatory functions of NAMPT and NAD +metabolism, in conjunction with redox signaling, in the progression of UL, and to explore potential therapeuticstrategies targeting these pathways. Evaluation of NAMPT expression in human UL tissues revealed a positive
correlation between elevated NAMPT levels and increased ECM deposition, as well as the expression of stemness
markers. The use of FK866 and nicotinamide (NAM), to inhibit NAMPT significantly suppressed UL cell viability
and attenuated stem cell-like characteristics. Redox signaling pathways, including those associated with DNA
damage, lysosomal function homeostasis, and redox-sensitive phagophore formation, were implicated in theregulation of ECM dynamics, particularly through ECM-targeted inhibition. This study highlights the pivotal rolesof NAMPT, NAD+ metabolism, and redox signaling in the pathophysiology of UL. Targeting NAMPT,
particularly through the use of inhibitors FK866 and NAM, represents a promising therapeutic approach for
mitigating UL progression by modulating redox and ECM dynamics. These findings offer novel insights into UL
pathogenesis and establish NAMPT as a compelling target for future clinical investigation.

Keywords: Uterine leiomyoma; NAMPT; NAD; ECM.

Biography
I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the School of Nutrition and Health Sciences,
Taipei Medical University, under the mentorship of Professor. Shih-Min Hsia. My
research is driven by a deep interest in cancer biology, reproductive health, andmetabolic disorders, with a particular emphasis on elucidating the molecularmechanisms through which bioactive compounds can prevent and treat diseases.
My work encompasses a range of topics, including the antioxidative properties ofplant-derived substances in disease models, and the study of bioactive components
in gynecological diseases, with a specific focus on uterine leiomyoma. These studies
have not only advanced our understanding of complex biological processes but havealso provided valuable insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In addition to my researchendeavors, I am committed to translating scientific discoveries into practical applications, particularly in the fields
of precision nutrition and personalized medicine. My ongoing research continues to investigate the intricate
relationships between diet, metabolic health, and chronic diseases, with the ultimate goal of identifying effective
interventions that can improve health outcomes.

The effect of tannin, amino acids, and their combination on the microbiome profile and blood
metabolites in calves
Ainissya Fitri*1, Fajar Edy Maretno Sitanggang2, Idat Galih Permana2, Lu'lu' Nabila Salsabila2, and Roni
Ridwan1

Affiliations
Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia.
2
Department of Nutrition and Feed Science, Graduate School of IPB University, Indonesia.

1*Correspondence email: aini002@brin.co.id

This study aimed to investigate the effects of tannins, amino acids (AA), and their combinations (TM)on the fecal microbiome profile and blood metabolites in calves. Four female calves aged 6-8 months were usedin this study, employing a 4x4 Latin square design over 14 days for each period. The treatments consisted of acontrol group, tannin addition (T), amino acid addition (AA, 70% lysine, 30% methionine), and a combinationof tannins and AA (TM). The feed used was a total mixed ration with 20 kg of forage and 2 kg of concentrate.
Fecal samples for microbiome profile analysis and blood profile were collected on the 14th day of each study
period. The observed values and Chao1 index in the control were higher compared to the T, AA, and TM
treatments. However, the Shannon index in the T treatment was higher than in the control, TM, and AA. The
fecal microbiome across all treatments consisted of 42 phyla, 99 classes, 217 orders, 506 families, 1,634 genera,and 3,363 bacterial species. At the phylum level, Bacillota, Bacteroidota, and Pseudomonadota were the mostdominant phyla across all treatments. The relative abundance at the genus level in all treatments was dominatedby the genera Alistipes, Aristaeella, Bacteroides, Lawsonibacter, Oscillibacter, Vescimonas, Odoribacter,
Phocaeicola, and Phascolarctobacterium. For the hematological profile, erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit,and leukocytes were not affected by the treatments. Plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, and bloodurea nitrogen did not differ across all treatments. The protein concentration in the Control was lower than in theT, AA, and TM treatments, while total cholesterol was found to be lower in the control group. The conclusion ofthis study is that the addition of tannins, AA, and TM affects the fecal microbiome profile, as well as plasma
protein and total cholesterol concentrations in calves. The addition of tannins and TM can improve the diversityof the gut microbiome without negatively impacting the health of the calves.

Keywords: calve, feed additives, microbiome, tannin

Biography
Dr. Ainissya Fitri, born on May 25, 1987, in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, is a
researcher specializing in animal nutrition, feed technology, and ruminant nutrition.
She earned her Doctorate in Animal Science from Hiroshima University (2016-2020),
and both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Nutrition Science and Feed
Technology from Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) (2012-2015, 2006-2010).
Currently, Dr. Fitri is a Young Researcher at the Research Center for Applied Zoology,
National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Indonesia, where she has beenworking since February 2022. Her research focuses on improving feed technologies
and nutritional strategies for ruminants.
Her research focuses on enhancing feed technologies and nutritional strategies for ruminants.
Her recent research projects include:•

Suplementasi Tanin-Mix Sebagai Pakan Aditif untuk Meningkatkan Sistem Imun, Performa dan
Kesehatan Pedet Sapi Melalui Pendekatan Metagenomik (Principal Investigator, RIIM-Indonesia, 2023present). English: Tannin-Mix Supplementation as a Feed Additive to Improve Immune System,
Performance, and Health of Calves Through a Metagenomic Approach•

Identifikasi Biomarker Potensial untuk Pengukuran Produksi Metan pada Ruminansia melalui Pendekatan
Metagenomik dan Metabolomik: Pengaruh Pakan Aditif Metan Inhibitor (Principal Investigator, RPORHL BRIN, 2024). English: Identification of Potential Biomarkers for Methane Production
Measurement in Ruminants through Metagenomic and Metabolomic Approaches: The Effect of Methane
Inhibitor Feed Additives•

Pengembangan Premix Combo Dalam Menyuplai Kebutuhan Nutrisi Ternak Berbasis Nutrigenomic
Untuk Meningkatkan Sistem Imun Dan Produktivitas Bibit Sapi Potong (Member, PRN-RIIM, 2021–
present). English: Development of Combo Premix for Supplying Nutritional Needs of Livestock Based on
Nutrigenomics to Improve Immune System and Productivity of Beef Cattle.

Effect of matcha on cafeteria diet-induced rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Ho-Ching Chong1, Shu-Ting Tang1, Yu-Chieh Tseng1, Suh-Ching Yang1, Wen-Chung Huang2, Yasuo
Watanabe3, Shizuo Yamada4, Ya-Ling Chen1*
1

School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan

2

Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, ResearchCenter for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science andTechnology, Taiwan
3

General Health Medical Center, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Japan
4

School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Japan*Correspondence email: ylchen01@tmu.edu.tw

Among diet-induced obesity animal models, the cafeteria diet, which contains human junk food andprocessed foods, is a popular experimental animal diets in Western countries. Consumption of a cafeteria
diet can lead to the development of obesity and non-alcoholic liver disease in as soon as 2 months, whichmore accurately reflects human eating patterns. In our study, first, we establish the Taiwanese CAF dietwhich more closely reflected the Western diet in Taiwanese society. Also we demonstrated that the
Taiwanese cafeteria diet has greater potential to be a model of obesity-related diseases than the
traditional 60% high fat diet. Second, we aim to investigate the effects of matcha, green tea powder, on
lipid metabolism, insulin resistance (IR), and inflammation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD). The results suggested that 12 weeks of the Taiwanese cafeteria diet can induce abnormal lipid
metabolism, IR, and liver inflammation, and both the 0.2% and 1% matcha interventions might regulate
obesity, lipid accumulation, IR, and inflammatory responses in the liver which then ameliorated thedevelopment of NAFLD.
Keywords: NAFLD, Metabolic disorder, Obesity, Taiwanese cafeteria diet, matcha

Biography
Ya-Ling Chen, PhD<Educational background>2001 B.S. School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University
2004 M.S. School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University
2011 Ph.D. School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University<Work Experiences>
2014-2019 Assistant professor, Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Chang Gung universityof science and technology<Current Position>
2019- Assistant professor, School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University<Publications>
1. Yen Nhi Hoang, Ya-Ling Chen, Dang Khanh Ngan Ho, Wan-Chun Chiu, Khang-Jin, Cheah, Noor Rohmah
Mayasari, Jung-Su Chang (2023). Consistency and Accuracy of Artificial Intelligence for Providing Nutritional
Information. JAMA Netw Open., 6:e2350367.
2. Yi-Hsiu Chen, Jung-An Lin, Jiun-Rong Chen, Ya-Ling Chen, Suh-Ching Yang (2023). Regular nutrition
consultations reduced risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in adults. Nutrition, 118:112259.
3. Yu-Chieh Tseng, Lu-Chi Fu, Ho-Ching Chong, Shu-Ting Tang, Suh-Ching Yang, Wen-Chung Huang, YuChen Sh Yang, Ya-Ling Chen (2023). Consumption of a Taiwanese cafeteria diet induces metabolic disorders andfecal flora changes in obese rats. Nutrition, 117:112230.
4. Kuan-Yu Lin, Hsin-Yi Yang, Suh-Ching Yang, Ya-Ling Chen, Y Watanabe, Jiun- Rong Chen (2023). Caulerpa
lentillifera improves ethanol-induced liver injury and modulates the gut microbiota in rats. Curr Res Food Sci ,7:100546.
5. Qian Xiao, Yi-Hsiu Chen, Ya-Ling Chen, Yu-Shan Chien, Li-Hsuan Hsieh, Hitoshi Shirakawa, Suh-Ching
Yang (2023). Potential Benefits of Epidermal Growth Factor for Inhibiting Muscle Degrative Markers in Rats
with Alcoholic Liver Damage. Int J Mol Sci , 24(10):8845.
6. Hsiao-Yun Chang, Jiun-Rong Chen, Yi-Hsiu Chen, Qian Xiao, Ya-Ling Chen, Suh-Ching Yang (2022). The
Preliminary Results for Evaluating Cocoa Butter's Hepatoprotective Effects against Lipid Accumulation and
Inflammation in Adult Male Rats Chronically Fed Ethanol. Bioengineering, 9(10):526.
7. Chian-Jiun Liou, Shu-Ju Wu, Szu-Chuan Shen, Li-Chen Chen, Ya-Ling Chen, Wen-Chung Huang (2022).
Acacetin Protects against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Regulating Lipid Accumulation and
Inflammation in Mice. Int J Mol Sci,23(9):4687
8. Ting-Yu Chen, Ya-Ling Chen, Wan-Chun Chiu, Chiu-Li Yeh, Yu-Tang Tung, Hitoshi Shirakawa, Wei-Tzu
Liao, Suh-Ching Yang (2022). Effects of the Water Extract of Fermented Rice Bran on Liver Damage andIntestinal Injury in Aged Rats with High-Fat Diet Feeding. Plants (Basel), 11(5):607.
9. Ya-Ling Chen, Ming-Tsan Lin, Wan-Hsuan Wang, Sung-Ling Yeh, Chiu-Li Yeh (2022). Intravenous Arginine
Administration Attenuates the Inflammatory Response and Improves Metabolic Profiles in Diet-Induced Obese
Mice after Sleeve Gastrectomy. Metabolites, 12(2):153
10. Yi-Hsiu Chen, Wan-Chun Chiu, Qian Xiao, Ya-Ling Chen, Hitoshi Shirakawa, Suh-Ching Yang (2021).
Synbiotics Alleviate Hepatic Damage, Intestinal Injury and Muscular Beclin-1 Elevation in Rats after Chronic
Ethanol Administration. Int J Mol Sci., 22(22):12547.
11. Wen-Chung Huang, Shu-Ju Wu, Ya-Ling Chen, Chwan-Fwu Lin, Chian-Jiun Liou (2021). Tomatidine
Improves Pulmonary Inflammation in Mice with Acute Lung Injury. Mediators Inflamm., 2021:4544294.
12. Qian Xiao, Yi-Hsiu Chen, Satwika Arya Pratama, Ya-Ling Chen, Hitoshi Shirakawa, Hsiang-Chi Peng, SuhChing Yang (2021). The Prophylactic Effects of Glutamine on Muscle Protein Synthesis and Degradation in Rats
with Ethanol-Induced Liver Damage. Nutrients, 13(8):2788.

From Brain to Metabolism: Exploring Hypothalamic Influences on Metabolic Dysregulation
Kuan-Hsuan Wu1, Wan-Syuan Kang1, Jin-Chung Chen2, Ya-Tin Lin3*
1

Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
3
Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University,
Taipei, Taiwan

2*Correspondence email: yatinlin@tmu.edu.tw

The hypothalamus is a crucial brain region that mediates the effects of insulin and leptin signals on
peripheral metabolic functions. Previous research has shown that insulin signals in the hypothalamus act via
multiple neuronal circuits and anabolic/catabolic pathways that converge on the vagus nerve and sympathetic
fibers to coordinate energy metabolism in peripheral organs. Additionally, neuropeptide FF (NPFF) has been
identified as a regulator of feeding behaviors and energy homeostasis in the hypothalamus, but the mechanisms
underlying its involvement in metabolic control remain unclear.
Our primary focus is to investigate the physiological role of hypothalamic NPFF in energy homeostasis
and metabolic health, using both in vitro hypothalamic cell lines and animal models of diabetes and obesity. We
have demonstrated that NPFF, through binding to NPFF type 2 receptor (NPFFR2), inhibits insulin signaling in
the hypothalamus, resulting in central insulin resistance. Prolonged activation of NPFFR2 in the hypothalamicarcuate nucleus accelerated the progression of metabolic disorders, increasing blood glucose, circulating lipids,
and promoting hepatic steatosis and lipid accumulation in adipose tissue. Abnormal lipolysis and inflammation
were also observed in peripheral tissues. The metabolic dysregulation caused by these disorders was alleviated in
NPFFR2 knockout mice. The mediobasal hypothalamus was collected from mice overexpression NPFFR2 in thearcuate nucleus and consequence-induced obesity. Gene profiles of the mediobasal hypothalamus were analyzed
by NGS to further explore the cellular mechanism. To further explore the cellular mechanisms, the mediobasal
hypothalamus was collected from mice with NPFFR2 overexpression in the arcuate nucleus after inducing obesity.
Gene profiles of the mediobasal hypothalamus were analyzed using next-generation sequencing.
Overall, Our findings demonstrate that hypothalamic NPFFR2 negatively regulates insulin signaling in
the central nervous system and plays an important role in maintaining systemic metabolic health.

Keywords: Hypothalamus, Metabolic diseases, Central Insulin Resistance, Neuropeptide FF

Biography
My name is Ya-Tin Lin, a neuroscientist and Assistant Professor at
the Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, Taipei Medical
University.
I began my scientific journey in 2005 as a research assistant in Prof.
Jin-Chung Chen’s lab. After 15 years, I completed my PhD in biomedical
sciences, with a focus on neural plasticity related to nociception and stressrelated disorders. Over the past six years, my research has shifted to thecentral regulation of energy metabolism. My areas of expertise include
obesity and metabolism, physiology and pharmacology, neuroscience, andneuroendocrinology. During my postdoctoral training, I worked as an exchange researcher in Dr. Tamás Röszer’s
lab at Ulm University, Germany, collaborating with outstanding international researchers.
My current research focuses on energy metabolism and metabolic health, particularly the central
regulation of peripheral systems. By integrating two distinct fields, we aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms
underlying human diseases. In my lab, we investigate the physiological role of the central nervous system, with a
specific focus on neuropeptide FF (NPFF). We have demonstrated that NPFF, through binding to NPFF type 2
receptor (NPFFR2), inhibits insulin signaling in the hypothalamus, leading to central insulin resistance. Prolonged
activation of NPFFR2 in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus accelerates the progression of metabolic disorders suchas diabetes and obesity. Currently, we are investigating the detailed cellular mechanisms, including NPFF's impact
on neuroinflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress.