Oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and the balance of protein degradation and protein synthesis

A short-term exposure to saxitoxin triggers a multitude of deleterious effects in Daphnia magna at levels deemed safe for human health

Harmful algal blooms and the toxins produced during these events are a human and environmental health concern worldwide. Saxitoxin and its derivatives are potent natural aquatic neurotoxins produced by certain freshwater cyanobacteria and marine algae species during these bloom events. Saxitoxins effects on human health are well studied, however its effects on aquatic biota are still largely unexplored. This work aims at evaluating the effects of a pulse acute exposure (24 h) of the model cladoceran Daphnia magna to 30 μg saxitoxin L-1, which corresponds to the safety guideline established by the World Health Organization (WHO) for these toxins in recreational freshwaters. Saxitoxin effects were assessed through a comprehensive array of biochemical (antioxidant enzymes activity and lipid peroxidation), genotoxicity (alkaline comet assay), neurotoxicity (total cholinesterases activity), behavioral (swimming patterns), physiological (feeding rate and heart rate), and epigenetic (total 5-mC DNA methylation) biomarkers. Exposure resulted in decreased feeding rate, heart rate, total cholinesterases activity and catalase activity. Contrarily, other antioxidant enzymes, namely glutathione-S-transferases and selenium-dependent Glutathione peroxidase had their activity increased, together with lipid peroxidation levels. The enhancement of the antioxidant enzymes was not sufficient to prevent oxidative damage, as underpinned by lipid peroxidation enhancement. Accordingly, average DNA damage level was significantly increased in STX-exposed daphnids. Total DNA 5-mC level was significantly decreased in exposed organisms. Results showed that even a short-term exposure to saxitoxin causes significant effects on critical molecular and cellular pathways and modulates swimming patterns in D. magna individuals. This study highlights sub-lethal effects caused by saxitoxin in D. magna, suggesting that these toxins may represent a marked challenge to their thriving even at a concentration deemed safe for humans by the WHO.

Accumulation, biochemical responses and changes in the redox proteome promoted by Ag and Cd in the burrowing bivalve Scrobicularia plana

Silver (Ag) and cadmium (Cd) are non-essential metals that, as a result of natural processes and human activities, reach the aquatic environment where they interact with biota inducing potential toxic effects. To determine the biological effects of these metals on the endobenthic bivalve Scrobicularia plana, specimens were exposed to Ag and Cd at two concentrations, 5 and 50 μg∙L-1, for 7 days in a controlled microcosm system. The levels of the metals were measured in the seawater, sediments and clam tissues. The possible toxic biological effects of Ag and Cd were studied using a battery of biochemical biomarkers that are responsive to oxidative stress: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities, and metallothioneins (MTs) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels. Since both metals have been linked to oxidative stress, redox modifications to proteins were studied by differential isotopic labelling of the oxidised and reduced forms of cysteines (Cys). An accumulation of metals was observed in the digestive gland and gills following exposure, together with the activation of enzyme activities (SOD for the Cd exposure; SOD, CAT, GST, and GR for the Ag exposure). The MT and LPO levels (after individual exposure to Ag and Cd) increased, which suggests the existence of antioxidant and detoxification processes to mitigate the toxic oxidative effects of both metals. The redox proteomic analysis identified 771 Cys-containing peptides (out of 514 proteins), of which 195 and 226 changed after exposure to Ag and Cd, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis showed that exposure to metal affects relevant functional pathways and biological processes in S. plana, such as: "cellular respiration" (Ag), "metabolism of amino acids" and "synthesis and degradation of proteins" (Ag and Cd), "carbohydrate metabolism" and "oxidative stress" (Cd). The proteomic approach implemented here is a powerful complement to conventional biochemical biomarkers, since it evaluates changes at the protein level in a high-throughput unbiased manner, thus providing a general appraisal of the biological responses altered by exposure to the contaminants.

Translational Research and Therapies for Neuroprotection and Regeneration of the Optic Nerve and Retina: A Narrative Review

Most retinal and optic nerve diseases pose significant threats to vision, primarily due to irreversible retinal neuronal cell death, a permanent change, which is a critical factor in their pathogenesis. Conditions such as glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration are the top four leading causes of blindness among the elderly in Japan. While standard treatments-including reduction in intraocular pressure, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapies, and retinal photocoagulation-can partially delay disease progression, their therapeutic effects remain limited. To address these shortcomings, a range of neuroprotective and regenerative therapies, aimed at preventing retinal neuronal cell loss, have been extensively studied and increasingly integrated into clinical practice over the last two decades. Several of these neuroprotective therapies have achieved on-label usage worldwide. This narrative review introduces several neuroprotective and regenerative therapies for retinal and optic nerve diseases that have been successfully translated into clinical practice, providing foundational knowledge and success stories that serve as valuable references for researchers in the field.

Neural acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase deregulation during streptozotocin-induced behavioral, metabolic and redox modification in Nauphoeta cinerea

Genetic and environmental factors have been linked with neurodegeneration, especially in the elderly. Yet, efforts to impede neurodegenerative processes have at best addressed symptoms instead of underlying pathologies. The gap in the understanding of neuro-behavioral plasticity is consistent from insects to mammals, and cockroaches have been proven to be effective models for studying the toxicity mechanisms of various chemicals. We therefore used head injection of 74 and 740 nmol STZ in Nauphoeta cinerea to elucidate the mechanisms of chemical-induced neurotoxicity, as STZ is known to cross the blood-brain barrier. Neurolocomotor assessment was carried out in a new environment, while head homogenate was used to estimate metabolic, neurotransmitter and redox activities, followed by RT-qPCR validation of relevant cellular signaling. STZ treatment reduced the distance and maximum speed travelled by cockroaches, and increased glucose levels while reducing triglyceride levels in neural tissues. The activity of neurotransmitter regulators - AChE and MAO was exacerbated, with concurrent upregulation of glucose sensing and signaling, and increased mRNA levels of redox regulators and inflammation-related genes. Consequently, STZ neurotoxicity is conserved in insects, with possible implications for using N. cinerea to target the multi-faceted mechanisms of neurodegeneration and test potential anti-neurodegenerative agents.

Investigation of the therapeutic effect of melatonin on deltamethrin applied mouse primary hepatocyte culture

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, it has been known that the melatonin hormone, secreted from the pineal gland, possesses significant antioxidant activity. This study explores the therapeutic effect of melatonin on the deleterious effects of deltamethrin, a pyrethroid pesticide extensively used worldwide, including in Türkiye, on mouse liver cells.

METHODS

Hepatocytes from Balb/C mice were isolated using a two-stage perfusion method, resulting in over 85% live hepatocytes. The isolated cells were cultured with different doses of deltamethrin (1 and 10 µM) and melatonin (100 µM) for 24 and 48 hours. At the conclusion of the culture period, hepatocytes were extracted at the 24th and 48th hours, and Malondialdehyde (MDA), Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), Total Oxidation Status (TOS), and DNA damages (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)) were examined.

RESULTS

While an increase in MDA, TOS, and DNA damage was observed in the deltamethrin-administered groups of hepatocytes, a decrease in TAC level was noted. It was determined that the applied deltamethrin had no effect on cell viability throughout the application period.

CONCLUSION

Furthermore, it was observed that melatonin, when administered concurrently with deltamethrin, reduced the toxic effect of deltamethrin. This study suggests that melatonin has a protective effect against deltamethrin-induced damage in mouse hepatocyte cells.

Study on the metabolic effects of hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] on rat astrocytes using un-targeted metabolomics

Introduction: Hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] has been identified as a human carcinogen and environmental pollutant capable of affecting multiple systems in the human body. However, the specific mechanisms by which Cr (VI) affects the human nervous system remain unclear. Objective: Following confirmation of Cr (VI)'s toxic effects on rat astrocytes, this study explores the metabolites and associated metabolic pathways of rat astrocytes under different doses of Cr (VI) exposure. Methods: Cell viability was assessed using CCK8 assays, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using DCFH-DA fluorescent probes, intracellular 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) content was determined by Elisa, mitochondrial membrane potential was observed using JC-1 probes, and key metabolites were identified through untargeted metabolomics analysis. Results: With increasing Cr (VI) doses, significant decreases in cell viability were observed in the 4, 8, and 16 mg/L dose groups (p < 0.05). Elevated levels of ROS and 8-OHdG, increased caspase-3 activity, and significant reductions in mitochondrial membrane potential were observed in the 2 and 4 mg/L dose groups (p < 0.05). Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed Cr (VI)'s impact on key metabolites such as sphingosine and methionine. Enrichment analysis of KEGG pathways highlighted the critical roles of sphingolipid metabolism and the methionine-cysteine cycle in the effects of Cr (VI) on rat astrocytes. Conclusion: Our study underscores the potential neuro-health risks associated with environmental and occupational exposure to Cr (VI) and provides new perspectives and directions for investigating neurotoxic mechanisms.

Icariin improves oxidative stress injury during ischemic stroke via inhibiting mPTP opening

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke presents a significant threat to human health due to its high disability rate and mortality. Currently, the clinical treatment drug, rt-PA, has a narrow therapeutic window and carries a high risk of bleeding. There is an urgent need to find new effective therapeutic drugs for ischemic stroke. Icariin (ICA), a key ingredient in the traditional Chinese medicine Epimedium, undergoes metabolism in vivo to produce Icaritin (ICT). While ICA has been reported to inhibit neuronal apoptosis after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R), yet its underlying mechanism remains unclear.

METHODS

PC-12 cells were treated with 200 µM H2O2 for 8 h to establish a vitro model of oxidative damage. After administration of ICT, cell viability was detected by Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis level, mPTP status and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were detected by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Apoptosis and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) related proteins were assessed by Western blotting. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was used to establish I/R injury in vivo. After the treatment of ICA, the neurological function was scored by ZeaLonga socres; the infarct volume was observed by 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining; HE and Nissl staining were used to detect the pathological state of the ischemic cortex; the expression changes of mPTP and apoptosis related proteins were detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

In vitro: ICT effectively improved H2O2-induced oxidative injury through decreasing the ROS level, inhibiting mPTP opening and apoptosis. In addition, the protective effects of ICT were not enhanced when it was co-treated with mPTP inhibitor Cyclosporin A (CsA), but reversed when combined with mPTP activator Lonidamine (LND). In vivo: Rats after MCAO shown cortical infarct volume of 32-40%, severe neurological impairment, while mPTP opening and apoptosis were obviously increased. Those damage caused was improved by the administration of ICA and CsA.

CONCLUSIONS

ICA improves cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting mPTP opening, making it a potential candidate drug for the treatment of ischemic stroke.

SIRT4 promotes neuronal apoptosis in models of Alzheimer's disease via the STAT2-SIRT4-mTOR pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and presents a considerable disease burden. Its pathology involves substantial neuronal loss, primarily attributed to neuronal apoptosis. Although sirtuin 4 (SIRT4) has been implicated in regulating apoptosis in various diseases, the role of SIRT4 in AD pathology remains unclear. The study used APP/PS1 mice as an animal model of AD and amyloid-β (Aβ)1-42-treated HT-22 cells as an AD cell model. SIRT4 expression was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence. A Sirt4 knockdown model was established by intracranial injection of lentivirus-packaged sh-SIRT4 and cellular lentivirus transfection. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were used to examine Aβ deposition in mice and apoptosis, respectively. Protein expression was assessed by Western blot analysis. The UCSC and JASPAR databases were used to predict upstream transcription factors of Sirt4. Subsequently, the binding of transcription factors to Sirt4 was analyzed using a dual-luciferase assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. SIRT4 expression was upregulated in both APP/PS1 mice and Aβ-treated HT-22 cells compared with their respective control groups. Sirt4 knockdown in animal and cellular models of AD resulted in reduced apoptosis, decreased Aβ deposition, and amelioration of learning and memory impairments in mice. Mechanistically, SIRT4 modulates apoptosis via the mTOR pathway and is negatively regulated by the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 2 (STAT2). Our study findings suggest that targeting the STAT2-SIRT4-mTOR axis may offer a new treatment approach for AD.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The study reveals that in Alzheimer's disease models, SIRT4 expression increases, contributing to neuronal apoptosis and amyloid-β deposition. Reducing SIRT4 lessens apoptosis and amyloid-β accumulation, improving memory in mice. This process involves the mTOR pathway, regulated by STAT2 transcription factor. These findings suggest targeting the STAT2-SIRT4-mTOR axis as a potential Alzheimer's treatment strategy.

A novel electrochemical strategy to detect hydrogen peroxide by utilizing peroxidase-mimicking activity of cerium oxide/graphene oxide nanocomposites

We herein describe a novel electrochemical strategy to detect hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by utilizing the peroxidase-mimicking activity of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NP) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Particularly, CeO2 NP/rGO nanocomposites were deposited on the commercial electrode by a very convenient and direct electrochemical reduction of graphene oxide. Due to the peroxidase-mimicking activity of CeO2 NP and the outstanding electrochemical properties of reduced graphene oxide, the reduction current of H2O2 was greatly enhanced. Based on this strategy, we reliably determined H2O2 down to 1.67 μM with excellent specificity and further validated its practical capabilities by robustly detecting H2O2 present in heterogeneous human serum samples. We believe that this work could serve as a new facile platform for H2O2 detection.

Dynamic alterations in physiological and biochemical indicators of Cirrhinus mrigala hatchlings: A sublethal exposure of triclosan

Triclosan (TCS), a biocide used in various day-to-day products, has been associated with several toxic effects in aquatic organisms. In the present study, biochemical and hematological alterations were evaluated after 14 d (sublethal) exposure of tap water (control), acetone (solvent control), 5, 10, 20, and 50 μg/L (environmentally relevant concentrations) TCS to the embryos/hatchlings of Cirrhinus mrigala, a major freshwater carp distributed in tropic and sub-tropical areas of Asia. A concentration-dependent increase in the content of urea and protein carbonyl, while a decrease in the total protein, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, and bilirubin was observed after the exposure. Hematological analysis revealed a decrease in the total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin, and partial pressure of oxygen, while there was an increase in the total leucocyte count, carbon dioxide, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide and serum electrolytes. Comet assay demonstrates a concentration-dependent increase in tail length, tail moment, olive tail moment, and percent tail DNA. An amino acid analyzer showed a TCS-dose-dependent increase in various amino acids. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis revealed different proteins ranging from 6.5 to 200 kDa, demonstrating TCS-induced upregulation. Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis exhibited a decline in peak area percents with an increase in the concentration of TCS in water. Curve fitting of amide I (1,700-1600 cm-1) showed a decline in α-helix and turns and an increase in β-sheets. Nuclear magnetic resonance study also revealed concentration-dependent alterations in the metabolites after 14 d exposure. TCS caused alterations in the biomolecules and heamatological parameters of fish, raising the possibility that small amounts of TCS may change the species richness in natural aquatic habitats. In addition, consuming TCS-contaminated fish may have detrimental effects on human health. Consequently, there is a need for the proper utilisation and disposal of this hazardous compound in legitimate quantities.

Therapeutic potential of saffron in brain disorders: From bench to bedside

Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus L., which has been used for centuries as a coloring and flavoring agent, as well as a source of medicinal compounds. Saffron contains various bioactive constituents, such as crocin, crocetin, safranal, picrocrocin, and kaempferol, that have shown potential benefits for human health. Among them, crocin is the most abundant and characteristic constituent of saffron, responsible for its bright red color and antioxidant properties. One of the most promising applications of saffron and its constituents is in the prevention and treatment of neurological disorders, such as depression, anxiety, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other brain disorders. Saffron and its constituents have been reported to exert neuroprotective effects through various mechanisms, such as modulating neurotransmitters, enhancing neurogenesis, reducing neuroinflammation, regulating oxidative stress, activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and modulating epigenetic factors. Several clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of saffron and its constituents in improving cognitive function, mood, and other neurological outcomes. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the therapeutic potential of saffron and its constituents in neurological disorders, from bench to bedside. We also discuss the challenges and future directions for the development of saffron-based therapies for brain health.

Inhibiting the Keap1/Nrf2 Protein-Protein Interaction with Protein-Like Polymers

Successful and selective inhibition of the cytosolic protein-protein interaction (PPI) between nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Kelch-like ECH-associating protein 1 (Keap1) can enhance the antioxidant response, with the potential for a therapeutic effect in a range of settings including in neurodegenerative disease (ND). Small molecule inhibitors have been developed, yet many have off-target effects, or are otherwise limited by poor cellular permeability. Peptide-based strategies have also been attempted to enhance specificity, yet face challenges due to susceptibility to degradation and lack of cellular penetration. Herein, these barriers are overcome utilizing a polymer-based proteomimetics. The protein-like polymer (PLP) consists of a synthetic, lipophilic polymer backbone displaying water soluble Keap1-binding peptides on each monomer unit forming a brush polymer architecture. The PLPs are capable of engaging Keap1 and displacing the cellular protective transcription factor Nrf2, which then translocates to the nucleus, activating the antioxidant response element (ARE). PLPs exhibit increased Keap1 binding affinity by several orders of magnitude compared to free peptides, maintain serum stability, are cell-penetrant, and selectively activate the ARE pathway in cells, including in primary cortical neuronal cultures. Keap1/Nrf2-inhibitory PLPs have the potential to impact the treatment of disease states associated with dysregulation of oxidative stress, such as NDs.

Oxidative stress involvement in the molecular pathogenesis and progression of multiple sclerosis: a literature review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune debilitating disease of the central nervous system caused by a mosaic of interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. The pathological hallmarks of MS are chronic inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. Oxidative stress, a state of imbalance between the production of reactive species and antioxidant defense mechanisms, is considered one of the key contributors in the pathophysiology of MS. This review is a comprehensive overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which oxidant species contribute to the initiation and progression of MS including mitochondrial dysfunction, disruption of various signaling pathways, and autoimmune response activation. The detrimental effects of oxidative stress on neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes, as well as the role of oxidants in promoting and perpetuating inflammation, demyelination, and axonal damage, are discussed. Finally, this review also points out the therapeutic potential of various synthetic antioxidants that must be evaluated in clinical trials in patients with MS.

Hormetic Nutrition and Redox Regulation in Gut-Brain Axis Disorders

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hormetic nutrition for enhancing stress resilience and overall human health have received much attention. Recently, the gut-brain axis has attracted prominent interest for preventing and therapeutically impacting neuropathologies and gastrointestinal diseases. Polyphenols and polyphenol-combined nanoparticles in synergy with probiotics have shown to improve gut bioavailability and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, thus inhibiting the oxidative stress, metabolic dysfunction and inflammation linked to gut dysbiosis and ultimately the onset and progression of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. In accordance with hormesis, polyphenols display biphasic dose-response effects by activating at a low dose the Nrf2 pathway resulting in the upregulation of antioxidant vitagenes, as in the case of heme oxygenase-1 upregulated by hidrox® or curcumin and sirtuin-1 activated by resveratrol to inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, microbiota dysfunction and neurotoxic damage. Importantly, modulation of the composition and function of the gut microbiota through polyphenols and/or probiotics enhances the abundance of beneficial bacteria and can prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. Interestingly, dysregulation of the Nrf2 pathway in the gut and the brain can exacerbate selective susceptibility under neuroinflammatory conditions to CNS disorders due to the high vulnerability of vagal sensory neurons to oxidative stress. Herein, we aimed to discuss hormetic nutrients, including polyphenols and/or probiotics, targeting the Nrf2 pathway and vitagenes for the development of promising neuroprotective and therapeutic strategies to suppress oxidative stress, inflammation and microbiota deregulation, and consequently improve cognitive performance and brain health. In this review, we also explore interactions of the gut-brain axis based on sophisticated and cutting-edge technologies for novel anti-neuroinflammatory approaches and personalized nutritional therapies.

Transcriptomic analysis of hydrogen peroxide-induced liver dysfunction in Cyprinus carpio: Insights into protein synthesis and metabolism

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a prevalent reactive oxygen species (ROS) found in natural aquatic environments, has garnered significant attention for its potential toxicity in fish. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this toxicity are not yet comprehensively understood. This study aimed to assess H2O2-induced liver dysfunction in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms via biochemical and transcriptomic analyses. Common carp were divided into normal control (NC) and H2O2-treated groups (1 mM H2O2), the latter of which was exposed to H2O2 for 1 h per day over a period of 14 days. Serum biochemical analyses indicated that exposure to H2O2 resulted in moderate liver damage, characterized by elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity and lowered albumin (Alb) level. Concurrently, H2O2 exposure induced oxidative stress and modified the hepatic metabolic enzyme levels. Transcriptome analysis highlighted that 1358 and 1188 genes were significantly downregulated and upregulated, respectively, in the H2O2-treated group. These differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in protein synthesis and a variety of metabolic functions such as peptide biosynthetic processes, protein transport, ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis, oxoacid metabolic processes, and tricarboxylic acid metabolic processes. Dysregulation of protein synthesis is principally associated with the downregulation of three specific pathways: ribosome biogenesis, protein export, and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Furthermore, metabolic abnormalities were primarily characterized by inhibition of the citrate cycle (TCA) and fatty acid biosynthesis. Significantly, anomalies in both protein synthesis and metabolic function may be linked to aberrant regulation of the insulin signaling pathway. These findings offer innovative insights into the mechanisms underlying H2O2 toxicity in aquatic animals, contributing to the assessment of ecological risks.

Modulation of thioredoxin by chlorogenic acid in an ischemic stroke model and glutamate-exposed neurons

Ischemic stroke increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can eventually lead to neuronal death. Thioredoxin is a small reductase protein that acts as an eliminator of ROS and protects neurons from brain damage. Chlorogenic acid is known as a phenolic compound that has a neuroprotective effect. We investigated the change of thioredoxin expression by chlorogenic acid in a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) animal model. Adult rats were injected intraperitoneally with phosphate buffered saline or chlorogenic acid (30 mg/kg) 2 h after MCAO. MCAO damage induced neurological defects and increased ROS and lipid peroxidation levels, however, chlorogenic acid mitigated these changes. MCAO damage reduced thioredoxin expression, which was mitigated by chlorogenic acid treatment. The interaction between thioredoxin and apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) was decreased in MCAO animals, chlorogenic acid treatment prevented this decrease. In cultured neurons, chlorogenic acid dose-dependently attenuated glutamate-induced decreases in cell viability and thioredoxin expression. Glutamate toxicity downregulated bcl-2 and upregulated bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3, however, chlorogenic acid attenuated these changes. The mitigating effect of chlorogenic acid was lower in thioredoxin siRNA-transfected cells than in non-transfected cells. These results provide evidence that chlorogenic acid exerts potent antioxidant and neuroprotective effects through regulation of thioredoxin and modulation of ASK1 and thioredoxin binding in ischemic brain injury. These findings indicate that chlorogenic acid exerts a neuroprotective effect by regulating thioredoxin expression in cerebral ischemia and glutamate exposure conditions.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of spirulina and thymoquinone mitigate the methotrexate-induced neurotoxicity

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the neurotoxic effects caused by methotrexate (MTX), a frequently used chemotherapy drug, could be improved by administering Spirulina platensis (SP) and/or thymoquinone (TQ). Seven groups of seven rats were assigned randomly for duration of 21 days. The groups consisted of a control group that was given saline only. The second group was given 500 mg/kg of SP orally; the third group was given 10 mg/kg of TQ orally. The fourth group was given a single IP dose of 20 mg/kg of MTX on the 15th day of the experiment. The fifth group was given both SP and MTX, the sixth group was given both TQ and MTX, and the seventh group was given SP, TQ, and MTX. After MTX exposure, the study found that AChE inhibition, depletion of glutathione, and increased levels of MDA occurred. MTX also decreased the activity of SOD and CAT, as well as the levels of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. MTX induced apoptosis in brain tissue. However, when MTX was combined with either SP or TQ, the harmful effects on the body were significantly reduced. This combination treatment resulted in a faster return to normal levels of biochemical, oxidative markers, inflammatory responses, and cell death. In conclusion, supplementation with SP or TQ could potentially alleviate MTX-induced neuronal injury, likely due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Effect of low oxygen stress on the metabolic responses of tomato fruit cells

Postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables can occur due to cell breakdown and browning during controlled atmosphere storage as a result of low oxygen (O2) stress. Therefore, the study was designed to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the response of isolated tomato fruit cells incubated at low O2 (hypoxic and anoxic) conditions as a model system. The O2 stress conditions used for the experiment were based on the results of the Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) of respiration. A total of 56 polar metabolites belonging mainly to different functional groups, including amino acids, organic acids, sugars and sugar alcohols, were identified using GC-MS. O2 stress stimulated the biosynthesis of most of the free amino acids while decreasing the synthesis of most of the organic acids (especially those linked to the tricarboxylic acid cycle), sugars (except for ribose) and other nitrogen-containing compounds. The down-regulation of these TCA cycle metabolites served to provide energy to ensure the survival of the cell. Increases in the sugar alcohol levels and induction of fermentative metabolism were observed under low O2 stress. By employing multivariate statistics, metabolites were identified that were essential to the oxygen stress response and establishing the correlation between metabolite abundance, oxygen levels, and incubation period were achievable. A higher correlation was observed between the O2 levels and most of the metabolites.

Probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KU210152 and its fermented soy milk attenuates oxidative stress in neuroblastoma cells

We evaluated the probiotic properties and neuroprotective effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KU210152 and its application in soy milk. L. plantarum KU210152 exhibited high tolerance to artificial gastrointestinal conditions, high adhesion to intestinal cells (HT-29), and safe enzyme production. Conditioned medium acquired from HT-29 cells treated with heat-killed lactic acid bacteria (LAB-CM) was used to evaluate the neuroprotective effects. The CM exhibited neuroprotective effects via cell viability assay, morphological observations, and suppression of ROS production. Heat-killed L. plantarum KU210152 increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in HT-29 cells. In SH-SY5Y cells, pretreatment with L. plantarum KU210152 CM decreased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and upregulated BDNF and TH expression. The CM inhibited caspase-9 and caspase-3 activities. The neuroprotective effects of L. plantarum KU210152 were also confirmed in fermented soy milk. Therefore, both L. plantarum KU210152 and the fermented soy milk can be used as functional ingredients with neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress.

A quantitative proteomic study reveals oxidative stress and synapse-related proteins contributed to TDCIPP exposure induced neurotoxicity

Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) has been consistently identified in various environmental media and biological specimens. Current understanding of the in vivo toxicities of TDCIPP is limited, especially for potential for neurotoxic and cognitive impairment effects. To better evaluate the potential adverse effect of the chemical on learning and memory, Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were administered TDCIPP via gavage at doses of 40, 120, and 360 mg/kg/day for a period of 90 days. Quantitative proteomic analysis, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting were employed to assess alterations in proteins following exposure to TDCIPP. An open field test and the Morris Water Maze were used to assess anxiety and spatial learning memory capacity. Administration of TDCIPP induced anxiety and cognitive impairments in rats. Additionally, a noteworthy decrease in the number of neurons was observed in the hippocampal CA3 and dentate gyrus (DG) regions. Proteomic and bioinformatic analyses revealed dysregulation of numerous hippocampal proteins, particularly those associated with synapses (PKN1) or oxidative stress (GSTM4, NQO1, and BMAL1), which was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. In sum, the cognitive impairment of rats caused by TDCIPP exposure was associated with dysregulation of synaptic and oxidative stress-related proteins.

Combined exposure to manganese and iron decreases oxidative stress-induced nerve damage by increasing Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 expression

BACKGROUND

Manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) are essential trace elements for humans, yet excessive exposure to Mn or Fe can accumulate in the central nervous system (CNS) and cause neurotoxicity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Mn and Fe exposure, alone or in combination, on inducing oxidative stress-induced neurological damage in rat cortical and SH-SY5Y cells, and to determine whether combined exposure to these metals increases their individual toxicity.

METHODS

SH-SY5Y cells and male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to observe the effects of oxidative stress-induced neurological damage induced by exposure to manganese and iron alone or in combination. To detect the expression of anti-oxidative stress-related proteins, Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, and the apoptosis-related proteins, Bcl2 and Bax, and the neurological damage-related protein, α-syn. To detect reactive oxygen species generation and apoptosis. To detect the expression of the rat cortical protein Nrf2. To detect the production of proinflammatory cytokines.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that juvenile developmental exposure to Mn and Fe and their combination impairs cognitive performance in rats by inducing oxidative stress causing neurodegeneration in the cortex. Mn, Fe, and their combined exposure increased the expression of ROS, Bcl2, Bax, and α-syn, activated the inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-12, inhibited the activities of SOD and GSH, and induced oxidative stress-induced neurodegeneration both in rats and SH-SY5Y cells. Combined Mn-Fe exposure attenuated the oxidative stress induced by Mn and Fe exposure alone by increasing the expression of antioxidant factors Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1.

CONCLUSION

In both in vivo and in vitro studies, manganese and iron alone or in combination induced oxidative stress, leading to neuronal damage. In contrast, combined exposure to manganese and iron mitigated the oxidative stress induced by exposure to manganese and iron alone by increasing the expression of antioxidant factors. Therefore, studies to elucidate the main causes of toxicity and establish the molecular mechanisms of toxicity should help to develop more effective therapeutic modalities in the future.

Protein Carbonyl, Lipid Peroxidation, Glutathione and Enzymatic Antioxidant Status in Male Wistar Brain Sub-regions After Dietary Copper Deficiency

Copper a quintessential transitional metal is required for development and function of normal brain and its deficiency has been associated with impairments in brain function. The present study investigates the effects of dietary copper deficiency on brain sub-regions of male Wistar rats for 2-, 4- and 6-week. Pre-pubertal rats were divided into four groups: negative control (NC), copper control (CC), pairfed (PF) and copper deficient (CD). In brain sub regions total protein concentration, glutathione concentration and Cu-Zn SOD activity were down regulated after 2-, 4- and 6 weeks compared to controls and PF groups. Significant increase in brain sub regions was observed in protein carbonyl and lipid peroxidation concentration as well as total SOD, Mn SOD and catalase activities after 2-, 4- and 6 weeks of dietary copper deficiency. Experimental evidences indicate that impaired copper homeostasis has the potential to generate reactive oxygen species enhancing the susceptibility to oxidative stress by inducing up- and down-regulation of non-enzymatic and enzymatic profile studied in brain sub regions causing loss of their normal function which can consequently lead to deterioration of cell structure and death if copper deficiency is prolonged.

Expression of Human L-Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) under Conditions of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is known to influence mRNA levels, translation, and proteolysis. The importance of oxidative stress has been demonstrated in several human diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. L-Dopa decarboxylase (DDC) is the enzyme that converts L-Dopa to dopamine (DA). In spite of a large number of studies, little is known about the biological significance of the enzyme under physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we investigated the relationship between DDC expression and oxidative stress in human neural and non-neural cells. Oxidative stress was induced by treatment with H2O2. Our data indicated that mRNA and protein expression of DDC was enhanced or remained stable under conditions of ROS induction, despite degradation of total RNA and increased cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Moreover, DDC silencing caused an increase in the H2O2-induced cytotoxicity. The current study suggests that DDC is involved in the mechanisms of oxidative stress.

Pathways to healing: Plants with therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases

Some of the greatest challenges in medicine are the neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), which remain without a cure and mostly progress to death. A companion study employed a toolkit methodology to document 2001 plant species with ethnomedicinal uses for alleviating pathologies relevant to NDs, focusing on its relevance to Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to find plants with therapeutic bioactivities for a range of NDs. 1339 of the 2001 plant species were found to have a bioactivity from the literature of therapeutic relevance to NDs such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, AD, motor neurone diseases, multiple sclerosis, prion diseases, Neimann-Pick disease, glaucoma, Friedreich's ataxia and Batten disease. 43 types of bioactivities were found, such as reducing protein misfolding, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and cell death, and promoting neurogenesis, mitochondrial biogenesis, autophagy, longevity, and anti-microbial activity. Ethno-led plant selection was more effective than random selection of plant species. Our findings indicate that ethnomedicinal plants provide a large resource of ND therapeutic potential. The extensive range of bioactivities validate the usefulness of the toolkit methodology in the mining of this data. We found that a number of the documented plants are able to modulate molecular mechanisms underlying various key ND pathologies, revealing a promising and even profound capacity to halt and reverse the processes of neurodegeneration.

Bioactive Compounds of the Mediterranean Diet as Nutritional Support to Fight Neurodegenerative Disease

Neurodegenerative disorders are a widespread cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, characterized by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal depletion. They include selective malfunction and progressive loss of neurons, glial cells, and neural networks in the brain and spinal cord. There is an urgent need to develop new and more effective therapeutic strategies to combat these devastating diseases because, today, there is no treatment that can cure degenerative diseases; however, we have many symptomatic treatments. Current nutritional approaches are beginning to reflect a fundamental change in our understanding of health. The Mediterranean diet may have a protective effect on the neurodegenerative process because it is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Increasing knowledge regarding the impact of diet on regulation at the genetic and molecular levels is changing the way we consider the role of nutrition, resulting in new dietary strategies. Natural products, thanks to their bioactive compounds, have recently undergone extensive exploration and study for their therapeutic potential for a variety of diseases. Targeting simultaneous multiple mechanisms of action and a neuroprotection approach with the diet could prevent cell death and restore function to damaged neurons. For these reasons, this review will be focused on the therapeutic potential of natural products and the associations between the Mediterranean-style diet (MD), neurodegenerative diseases, and markers and mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

Exploring the Therapeutic Effect of Neurotrophins and Neuropeptides in Neurodegenerative Diseases: at a Glance

Neurotrophins and neuropeptides are the essential regulators of peripheral nociceptive nerves that help to induce, sensitize, and maintain pain. Neuropeptide has a neuroprotective impact as it increases trophic support, regulates calcium homeostasis, and reduces excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation. In contrast, neurotrophins target neurons afflicted by ischemia, epilepsy, depression, and eating disorders, among other neuropsychiatric conditions. Neurotrophins are reported to inhibit neuronal death. Strategies maintained for "brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) therapies" are to upregulate BDNF levels using the delivery of protein and genes or compounds that target BDNF production and boosting BDNF signals by expanding with BDNF mimetics. This review discusses the mechanisms of neurotrophins and neuropeptides against acute neural damage as well as highlighting neuropeptides as a potential therapeutic agent against Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Machado-Joseph disease (MJD), the signaling pathways affected by neurotrophins and their receptors in both standard and diseased CNS systems, and future perspectives that can lead to the potent application of neurotrophins and neuropeptides in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs).

The beneficial role of exercise in preventing doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

Doxorubicin is a highly effective chemotherapeutic agent widely used to treat a variety of cancers. However, the clinical application of doxorubicin is limited due to its adverse effects on several tissues. One of the most serious side effects of doxorubicin is cardiotoxicity, which results in life-threatening heart damage, leading to reduced cancer treatment success and survival rate. Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity results from cellular toxicity, including increased oxidative stress, apoptosis, and activated proteolytic systems. Exercise training has emerged as a non-pharmacological intervention to prevent cardiotoxicity during and after chemotherapy. Exercise training stimulates numerous physiological adaptations in the heart that promote cardioprotective effects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for exercise-induced cardioprotection is important to develop therapeutic approaches for cancer patients and survivors. In this report, we review the cardiotoxic effects of doxorubicin and discuss the current understanding of exercise-induced cardioprotection in hearts from doxorubicin-treated animals.

Fluoride Induced Neurobehavioral Impairments in Experimental Animals: a Brief Review

Fluoride is one of the major toxicants in the environment and is often found in drinking water at higher concentrations. Living organisms including humans exposed to high fluoride levels are found to develop mild-to-severe detrimental pathological conditions called fluorosis. Fluoride can cross the hematoencephalic barrier and settle in various brain regions. This accumulation affects the structure and function of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. The neural ultrastructure damages are reflected in metabolic and cognitive activities. Hindrances in synaptic plasticity and signal transmission, early neuronal apoptosis, functional alterations of the intercellular signaling pathway components, improper protein synthesis, dyshomeostasis of the transcriptional and neurotrophic factors, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses are accounted for the fluoride neurotoxicity. Fluoride causes a decline in brain functions that directly influence the overall quality of life in both humans and animals. Animal studies are widely used to explore the etiology of fluoride-induced neurotoxicity. A good number of these studies support a positive correlation between fluoride intake and toxicity phenotypes closely associated with neurotoxicity. However, the experimental dosages highly surpass the normal environmental concentrations and are difficult to compare with human exposures. The treatment procedures are highly dependent on the dosage, duration of exposure, sex, and age of specimens among other factors which make it difficult to arrive at general conclusions. Our review aims to explore fluoride-induced neuronal damage along with associated histopathological, behavioral, and cognitive effects in experimental models. Furthermore, the correlation of various molecular mechanisms upon fluoride intoxication and associated neurobehavioral deficits has been discussed. Since there is no well-established mechanism to prevent fluorosis, phytochemical-based alleviation of its characteristic indications has been proposed as a possible remedial measure.

Protein Misfolding and Aggregation in Proteinopathies: Causes, Mechanism and Cellular Response

Proteins are central to life functions. Alterations in the structure of proteins are reflected in their function. Misfolded proteins and their aggregates present a significant risk to the cell. Cells have a diverse but integrated network of protection mechanisms. Streams of misfolded proteins that cells are continuously exposed to must be continually monitored by an elaborated network of molecular chaperones and protein degradation factors to control and contain protein misfolding problems. Aggregation inhibition properties of small molecules such as polyphenols are important as they possess other beneficial properties such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and pro-autophagic properties and help neuroprotection. A candidate with such desired features is important for any possible treatment development for protein aggregation diseases. There is a need to study the protein misfolding phenomenon so that we can treat some of the worst kinds of human ailments related to protein misfolding and aggregation.

Ochratoxin A induces locomotor impairment and oxidative imbalance in adult zebrafish

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by species of filamentous fungi widely found as a contaminant in food and with high toxic potential. Studies have shown that this toxin causes kidney and liver damage; however, data on the central nervous system effects of exposure to OTA are still scarce. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of exposure to OTA on behavioral and neurochemical parameters in adult zebrafish. The animals were treated with different doses of OTA (1.38, 2.77, and 5.53 mg/kg) with intraperitoneal injections and submitted to behavioral evaluations in the open tank and social interaction tests. Subsequently, they were euthanized, and the brains were used to assess markers associated with oxidative status. In the open tank test, OTA altered distance traveled, absolute turn angle, mean speed, and freezing time. However, no significant effects were observed in the social interaction test. Moreover, OTA also increased glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and glutathione reductase (GR) levels and decreased non-protein thiols (NPSH) levels in the zebrafish brain. This study showed that OTA can affect behavior and neurochemical levels in zebrafish.

Metformin Induces Apoptosis in Human Pancreatic Cancer (PC) Cells Accompanied by Changes in the Levels of Histone Acetyltransferases (Particularly, p300/CBP-Associated Factor (PCAF) Protein Levels)

Accumulating evidence (mainly from experimental research) suggests that metformin possesses anticancer properties through the induction of apoptosis and inhibition of the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. However, its effect on the enzymes responsible for histone acetylation status, which plays a key role in carcinogenesis, remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of metformin on histone acetyltransferases (HATs) (i.e., p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF), p300, and CBP) and on histone deacetylases (HDACs) (i.e., SIRT-1 in human pancreatic cancer (PC) cell lines, 1.2B4, and PANC-1). The cells were exposed to metformin, an HAT inhibitor (HATi), or a combination of an HATi with metformin for 24, 48, or 72 h. Cell viability was determined using an MTT assay, and the percentage of early apoptotic cells was determined with an Annexin V-Cy3 Apoptosis Detection Assay Kit. Caspase-9 activity was also assessed. SIRT-1, PCAF, p300, and CBP expression were determined at the mRNA and protein levels using RT-PCR and Western blotting methods, respectively. Our results reveal an increase in caspase-9 in response to the metformin, indicating that it induced the apoptotic death of both 1.2B4 and PANC-1 cells. The number of cells in early apoptosis and the activity of caspase-9 decreased when treated with an HATi alone or a combination of an HATi with metformin, as compared to metformin alone. Moreover, metformin, an HATi, and a combination of an HATi with metformin also modified the mRNA expression of SIRT-1, PCAF, CBP, and p300. However, metformin did not change the expression of the studied genes in 1.2B4 cells. The results of the Western blot analysis showed that metformin diminished the protein expression of PCAF in both the 1.2B4 and PANC-1 cells. Hence, it appears possible that PCAF may be involved in the metformin-mediated apoptosis of PC cells.

Mechanisms Underlying Neurodegenerative Disorders and Potential Neuroprotective Activity of Agrifood By-Products

Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by progressive loss in selected areas of the nervous system, are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide due to an aging population. Despite their diverse clinical manifestations, neurodegenerative diseases are multifactorial disorders with standard features and mechanisms such as abnormal protein aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation. As there are no effective treatments to counteract neurodegenerative diseases, increasing interest has been directed to the potential neuroprotective activities of plant-derived compounds found abundantly in food and in agrifood by-products. Food waste has an extremely negative impact on the environment, and recycling is needed to promote their disposal and overcome this problem. Many studies have been carried out to develop green and effective strategies to extract bioactive compounds from food by-products, such as peel, leaves, seeds, bran, kernel, pomace, and oil cake, and to investigate their biological activity. In this review, we focused on the potential neuroprotective activity of agrifood wastes obtained by common products widely produced and consumed in Italy, such as grapes, coffee, tomatoes, olives, chestnuts, onions, apples, and pomegranates.

Antioxidant activity of caffeic acid: thermodynamic and kinetic aspects on the oxidative degradation pathway

Caffeic acid is a phenolic secondary metabolite from plants, which is known for its antioxidant properties. The effective mitigation of methanol-induced oxidative stress by caffeic acid depends on the direct radical scavenging as well as the formation of new metabolites via oxidative degradation. Herein, thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of the oxidative degradation pathway of caffeic acid in the presence of radical CH₃O^• and its isomer, ^•CH₂OH are discussed for the first time, employing density functional theory (DFT). The direct radical scavenging activity of caffeic acid against these radicals is verified via hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) and radical adduct formation (RAF) mechanisms. HAT is predicted to be more feasible than RAF mechanism as per the computed data. Additionally, energetic details of the proposed oxidative degradation pathway of radical adduct intermediates toward the formation of a cyclic metabolite is analyzed. Kinetic studies indicated a significant tunneling contribution to the H abstraction pathways having high activation barriers. Further, our results imply that the newly formed metabolites exhibit comparable antioxidant activity with that of caffeic acid.

HIF1, HSF1, and NRF2: Oxidant-Responsive Trio Raising Cellular Defenses and Engaging Immune System

Cellular homeostasis is continuously challenged by damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) and numerous reactive electrophiles. Human cells contain various protective systems that are upregulated in response to protein damage by electrophilic or oxidative stress. In addition to the NRF2-mediated antioxidant response, ROS and reactive electrophiles also activate HSF1 and HIF1 that control heat shock response and hypoxia response, respectively. Here, we review chemical and biological mechanisms of activation of these three transcription factors by ROS/reactive toxicants and the roles of their gene expression programs in antioxidant protection. We also discuss how NRF2, HSF1, and HIF1 responses establish multilayered cellular defenses consisting of largely nonoverlapping programs, which mitigates limitations of each response. Some innate immunity links in these stress responses help eliminate damaged cells, whereas others suppress deleterious inflammation in normal tissues but inhibit immunosurveillance of cancer cells in tumors.

The Impact of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive and highly fatal neurodegenerative disease. Although the pathogenesis of ALS remains unclear, increasing evidence suggests that a key contributing factor is mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are organelles in eukaryotic cells responsible for bioenergy production, cellular metabolism, signal transduction, calcium homeostasis, and immune responses and the stability of their function plays a crucial role in neurons. A single disorder or defect in mitochondrial function can lead to pathological changes in cells, such as an impaired calcium buffer period, excessive generation of free radicals, increased mitochondrial membrane permeability, and oxidative stress (OS). Recent research has also shown that these mitochondrial dysfunctions are also associated with pathological changes in ALS and are believed to be commonly involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. This article reviews the latest research on mitochondrial dysfunction and its impact on the progression of ALS, with specific attention to the potential of novel therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction.

The Outcome of Neurorehabilitation Efficacy and Management of Traumatic Brain Injury

For public health professionals, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its possible protracted repercussions are a significant source of worry. In opposed to patient neurorehabilitation with developed brain abnormalities of different etiologies, neurorehabilitation of affected persons has several distinct features. The clinical repercussions of the various types of TBI injuries will be discussed in detail in this paper. During severe TBI, the medical course frequently follows a familiar first sequence of coma, accompanied by disordered awareness, followed by agitation and forgetfulness, followed by return of function. Clinicians must be aware of common medical issues that might occur throughout the various stages of neurorehabilitation, for example, posttraumatic hydrocephalus, paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity and posttraumatic neuroendocrine disorders, at each step of the process. Furthermore, we address problems about the scheduling of various rehabilitation programs as well as the availability of current data for comprehensive rehabilitative neuropsychology techniques.

Quantitative estimation of intracellular oxidative stress in human tissues

Oxidative stress is known to be involved in and possibly a key driver of the development of numerous chronic diseases, including cancer. It is highly desired to have a capability to reliably estimate the level of intracellular oxidative stress as it can help to identify functional changes and disease phenotypes associated with such a stress, but the problem proves to be very challenging. We present a novel computational model for quantitatively estimating the level of oxidative stress in tissues and cells based on their transcriptomic data. The model consists of (i) three sets of marker genes found to be associated with the production of oxidizing molecules, the activated antioxidation programs and the intracellular stress attributed to oxidation, respectively; (ii) three polynomial functions defined over the expression levels of the three gene sets are developed aimed to capture the total oxidizing power, the activated antioxidation capacity and the oxidative stress level, respectively, with their detailed parameters estimated by solving an optimization problem and (iii) the optimization problem is so formulated to capture the relevant known insights such as the oxidative stress level generally goes up from normal to chronic diseases and then to cancer tissues. Systematic assessments on independent datasets indicate that the trained predictor is highly reliable and numerous insights are made based on its application results to samples in the TCGA, GTEx and GEO databases.

NLRP1 Inflammasomes: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Several Types of Brain Injury

NOD-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing 1 (NLRP1) is a member of the NLR family. The NLRP1 inflammasome consists of the NLRP1 protein, the adaptor protein apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD domain, and the effector molecule pro-caspase-1. When stimulated, the inflammasome initiates the cleavage of pro-caspase-1 and converts it into its active form, caspase-1; then, caspase-1 facilitates the cleavage of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 into their active and secreted forms. In addition, caspase-1 also mediates the cleavage of gasdermin D, which leads to pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death. Pathological events that damage the brain and result in neuropathological conditions can generally be described as brain injury. Neuroinflammation, especially that driven by NLRP1, plays a considerable role in the pathophysiology of brain injury, such as early brain injury (EBI) of subarachnoid hemorrhage, ischemic brain injury during stroke, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). In this article, a thorough overview of NLRP1 is presented, including its structure, mechanism of activation, and role in neuroinflammation. We also present recent studies on NLRP1 as a target for the treatment of EBI, ischemic brain injury, TBI, and other types of brain injury, thus highlighting the perspective of NLRP1 as an effective mediator of catastrophic brain injury.

The role of IL-6 in TBI and PTSD, a potential therapeutic target?

This literature review focuses on the role of IL-6 in TBI or PTSD-induced neuroinflammation. While TBI and PTSD are widely prevalent, these diagnoses are particularly common amongst veterans. Given the role of IL-6 in neuroprotection acutely, compared to detrimental chronically, targeting this cytokine at specific time points may be beneficial in modulating neuroinflammation. Current treatments for TBI or PTSD are variably affective. By reviewing the role of IL-6 in these two diagnoses, future studies can focus on therapeutics to treat neuroinflammation and ultimately reduce the devastating impacts of neuroinflammation on cognition in PTSD and TBI.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and the Unfolded Protein Response in Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular disease characterized by sudden interruption of blood flow in a certain part of the brain, leading to serious disability and death. At present, treatment methods for ischemic stroke are limited to thrombolysis or thrombus removal, but the treatment window is very narrow. However, recovery of cerebral blood circulation further causes cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays an important role in protein secretion, membrane protein folding, transportation, and maintenance of intracellular calcium homeostasis. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) plays a crucial role in cerebral ischemia pathophysiology. Mild ERS helps improve cell tolerance and restore cell homeostasis; however, excessive or long-term ERS causes apoptotic pathway activation. Specifically, the protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) pathways are significantly activated following initiation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). CIRI-induced apoptosis leads to nerve cell death, which ultimately aggravates neurological deficits in patients. Therefore, it is necessary and important to comprehensively explore the mechanism of ERS in CIRI to identify methods for preserving brain cells and neuronal function after ischemia.

Cyclobutanes in Small-Molecule Drug Candidates

Cyclobutanes are increasingly used in medicinal chemistry in the search for relevant biological properties. Important characteristics of the cyclobutane ring include its unique puckered structure, longer C-C bond lengths, increased C-C π-character and relative chemical inertness for a highly strained carbocycle. This review will focus on contributions of cyclobutane rings in drug candidates to arrive at favorable properties. Cyclobutanes have been employed for improving multiple factors such as preventing cis/trans-isomerization by replacing alkenes, replacing larger cyclic systems, increasing metabolic stability, directing key pharmacophore groups, inducing conformational restriction, reducing planarity, as aryl isostere and filling hydrophobic pockets.

Genetic Variability of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Genes Affects Onset, Progression of the Disease and Survival of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Inflammation and oxidative stress are recognized as important contributors to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease pathogenesis. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of selected single-nucleotide polymorphisms in genes involved in inflammation and oxidative stress on ALS susceptibility and modification. One-hundred-and-eighty-five ALS patients and 324 healthy controls were genotyped for nine polymorphisms in seven antioxidant and inflammatory genes using competitive allele-specific PCR. Logistic regression; nonparametric tests and survival analysis were used in the statistical analysis. Investigated polymorphisms were not associated with ALS susceptibility. Carriers of at least one polymorphic SOD2 rs4880 T or IL1B rs1071676 C allele more often had bulbar ALS onset (p = 0.036 and p = 0.039; respectively). IL1B rs1071676 was also associated with a higher rate of disease progression (p = 0.015). After adjustment for clinical parameters; carriers of two polymorphic IL1B rs1071676 C alleles had shorter survival (HR = 5.02; 95% CI = 1.92–13.16; p = 0.001); while carriers of at least one polymorphic CAT rs1001179 T allele had longer survival (HR = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.47–0.99; p = 0.046). Our data suggest that common genetic variants in the antioxidant and inflammatory pathways may modify ALS disease. Such genetic information could support the identification of patients that may be responsive to the immune or antioxidant system—based therapies.

A review on neurodegenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress and mitochondria

Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological diseases afflict people of all ages. Neuronal loss and cognitive dysfunction are common symptoms of these disorders. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species has been demonstrated to aggravate disease progression in previous investigations (ROS). Because of the large quantities of polyunsaturated fatty acids in their membranes and their fast oxygen consumption rate, neurons are especially susceptible to oxidative damage. The molecular aetiology of neurodegeneration produced by changes in redox balance has not yet been established. New antioxidants have shown considerable potential in modifying disease characteristics. For the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, ALS and spinocerebellar ataxia and Huntington's disease, antioxidant-based therapies are examined extensively in the literature.

Biomolecular alterations in the early life stages of four food fish following acute exposure of Triclosan

We investigated the effect of acute concentrations of triclosan (TCS; 96 h exposure and 10d post exposure) on the free amino acid, primary (SDS-PAGE) and secondary (FT-IR) structure of proteins in the embryos/larvae of Cyprinus carpio, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala. A concentration dependent increase in free amino acids, upregulation of polypeptides (100 and 70 kDa in C. carpio, C. idella and L. rohita, 55, 45, 36 kda in C. idella and L. rohita and 22 kDa in all the fish) and a decline in percent area of all the selected peaks of the FT-IR spectra was observed after exposure and recovery period. The decline in percent area was greatest for L. rohita at peak 1080 - 1088 cm^-1 (-75.99%) after exposure and at peak 2854 - 2855 cm^-1 (-53.59%) after recovery. Curve fitting analysis revealed a decrease in α-helices and increase in β-sheets in all fish after exposure and recovery period. The results suggest that TCS elicits alterations in biomolecules of fish embryos.

A review of the pathology and treatment of TBI and PTSD

This literature review focuses on the underlying pathophysiology of TBI and PTSD symptoms, while also examining the plethora of stem cell treatment options to ameliorate these neuronal and functional changes. As more veterans return suffering from TBI and/or PTSD, it is vital that researchers discover novel therapies to mitigate the detrimental symptoms of both diagnoses. A variety of stem cell treatments have been studied and offer hopeful options for TBI and PTSD recovery.