Selected vitamins and trace elements support immune function by strengthening epithelial barriers and cellular and humoral immune responses. Br J Nutr. 2007;98 Suppl 1:S29-S35. [PMID: 17922955 DOI: 10.1017/S0007114507832971]

Potential roles of neutrophils in maintaining the health and productivity of dairy cows during various physiological and physiopathological conditions: a review

Neutrophils represent the first line of innate immunity and are the most prominent line of cellular defence against invading microorganisms. On stimulation, they can quickly move through the walls of veins and into the tissues of the body to immediately attack or monitor the foreign antigens. Neutrophils are highly versatile and sophisticated cells which are endowed with highly sensitive receptor-based perception systems. They were traditionally classified as short-lived phagocytes actively involved during infection and inflammation, but recently, it has been seen that neutrophils are capable of detecting the presence of sperms during insemination as well as an implanting embryo in the female reproductive tract. These specialised phagocytes play a major role in tissue remodelling and wound healing, and maintain homeostasis during parturition, expulsion of placenta, folliculogenesis, corpus luteum formation and luteolysis. Here, we review the role played by neutrophils in maintaining homeostasis during normal and inflammatory conditions of dairy cattle. We have summarised the alteration in the expression of some cell adhesion molecules and cytokines on bovine neutrophils during different physiological and physiopathological conditions. Some emerging issues in the field of neutrophil biology and the possible strategies to strengthen their activity during the period of immunosuppression have also been discussed.

Different doses of tannin reflect a double-edged impact on broiler chicken immunity

Tannin is one of the most common phytochemical secondary phenolic metabolites, which is widely distributed in various plant production systems. Dietary intake of tannin can exert different actions on the immune system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different concentrations on broiler chicken immunity. Three groups (n = 10 in each group) were evaluated: control group given a normal basal diet, high tannic acid (HT) group given high-dose tannic acid (30 g/kg diet) and low tannic acid (LT) group given low-dose tannic acid (0.5 g/kg diet) for 35 days. Feed intake and body weight were measured weekly. Cells were isolated from thymus, spleen and caecal tonsils at the end of the study. Lymphocyte subsets, monocytes phagocytosis and cytokine mRNA expression in spleen were evaluated. The results showed that HT group chickens had decreased daily gain, final body weight, daily feed intake and relative weights of lymphoid organs compared with other groups. In thymus, spleen and caecal tonsils, relative CD4⁺, CD8⁺, CD4⁺CD8⁺ and γδ⁺ cell populations in the HT group were significant decreased in comparison with those of other groups. The relative B cell population in the HT group was also significant decreased. Cytokine mRNA expression in spleen cells of the HT group was also significantly lower than that in other groups. Conversely, CD4⁺CD8⁺ subpopulations in spleen and caecal tonsils, γδ⁺ cells in spleen and B cells in caecal tonsils of the LT group were significantly higher than those of the control group. In addition, IFN-γ mRNA expression in the LT group was significantly higher than that of the control group. These results demonstrated that dietary intake of tannin had positive and negative effects on broiler chicken immunity in a dose-dependent manner.

Association between micronutrient deficiency and acute respiratory infections in healthy adults: a systematic review of observational studies

Background

Acute respiratory infections (ARI), including the common cold causes significant morbidity and economical losses globally. Micronutrient deficiency may increase ARI incidence risk and its associated duration and severity among healthy adults, but evidence are inconclusive. This study aims to systematically review all observations on the association between single micronutrient deficiency and ARI incidence, duration and severity in healthy adults.

Methods

Systematic literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and Scopus databases. Eligible studies were assessed for the reporting and methodological quality. Adjusted summary statistics with their relevant 95% confidence intervals or interquartile ranges were extracted for the outcomes of interest.

Results

The literature search identified 423 unique studies. Of which, only eight studies were eligible and included in the final review. Only vitamin D deficiency (VDD) was observed among these eight studies. There were no eligible studies that focused on the association between other single micronutrient deficiency and ARI. The review found mixed observations on ARI incidence, and a lack of evidence on its associated severity to conclude the association between VDD and these outcomes. However, existing evidence consistently suggested that VDD is likely to lead to longer ARI duration (median duration in days: deficient group, 4 to 13; non-deficient groups, 2 to 8).

Conclusion

This review found that VDD may be associated to longer ARI duration, but its effect on ARI incidence and its associated severity among healthy adults remains inconclusive. This review also highlighted the lack of a consistent regional and/or global definition for micronutrient sufficiency, and that future studies should explore and conclude the association between other micronutrient deficiency and ARIs in healthy adults before considering supplementation for ARI prevention and management.

Molecular and biochemical investigations of key antioxidant/oxidant molecules in Saudi patients with recurrent miscarriage

The present study was undertaken to: i) Determine the levels of oxidative stress (OS) markers, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide anions (SOA) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), in both plasma and placental tissues of recurrent miscarriage (RM) patients in comparison with those of healthy pregnant (HP) and non-pregnant (NP) women; ii) determine the levels of enzymatic antioxidants [glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)], and non-enzymatic antioxidant micronutrients [selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn)] in both plasma and placental tissues of RM patients, in comparison with those of HP and NP women; iii) profile differential expression levels of selected antioxidant and apoptosis-related genes in the placental tissues of RM cases, in relation to those of HP women of matched gestational age, using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The results revealed highly significant increases of all investigated OS markers in plasma and placental tissues of RM patients compared with those of HP women. Moderate, but significant, increases of OS markers were observed in the plasma of HP patients in relation to those of NP women. The activities of antioxidant enzymes exhibited statistically significant decreases in both plasma and placental tissues of RM patients compared with those of HP women. The significantly reduced level of antioxidant enzymes was also evident in the plasma of HP women as compared with those of NP women. Results of RT-qPCR assays clearly indicated that the expression level of apoptosis-related genes [tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and S100A8], and pro-inflammatory cytokine genes [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8] were significantly upregulated in placental tissue of RM cases in relation to those of HP subjects. By contrast, mRNA transcriptional levels of key antioxidant genes (GPx, SOD, GSR and CAT) were found to be significantly reduced in placental tissue of RM patients in comparison to those of HP women. In conclusion, our data highlight a plausible cause-effect association between the observed increase in placental OS level and depletion of the activity of antioxidant enzymes. This suggests that OS is a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of idiopathic RM.

Zinc alleviates arsenism in common carp: Varied change profiles of cytokines and tight junction proteins among two intestinal segments

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of zinc on inflammation and tight junction (TJ) in different intestinal regions of common carp under sub-chronic arsenic insult. Fish were exposed to zinc (0, 1 mg/L) and arsenic trioxide (0, 2.83 mg/L) in individual or combination for a month. Inflammatory infiltration and TJ structure changes were displayed by H&E staining and transmission electron microscope. To further explore these changes, biochemical indicator (SOD), gene or protein expressions of inflammatory responses (NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8) and TJ proteins (Occludin, Claudins and ZOs) were determined. In the anterior intestine, arsenic decreased activity of SOD, mRNA levels of Occludin, Claudins and ZOs, increased mRNA levels of ILs. However, unlike the anterior intestine, arsenic has an upregulation effects of Occludin and Claudin-4 in the mid intestine. These anomalies induced by arsenic, except IL-8, were completely or partially recovered by zinc co-administration. Furthermore, transcription factor (NF-κB) nuclear translocation paralleled with its downstream genes in both intestinal regions. In conclusion, our results unambiguously suggested that under arsenic stress, zinc can partly relieve intestinal inflammation and disruption of tight junction segment-dependently.

Occurrence of infections in schoolchildren subsequent to supplementation with vitamin D-calcium or zinc: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Vitamin D and zinc are recognized for their roles in immune-modulation, and their deficiencies are suggested to be important risk factors for childhood infections. This study, therefore, undertook to assess the occurrence of infections in rural Indian schoolchildren, subsequent to daily supplementation with vitamin D-calcium or zinc for 6 months.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in apparently healthy 6–12 year-old rural Indian children, recruited to 3 study arms: vitamin D arm (1,000 IU D3 - 500 mg calcium, n = 135), zinc arm (10 mg, n = 150) and placebo arm (n = 150). The infection status was assessed using a validated questionnaire, and the biochemical parameters of serum 25(OH)D and serum zinc were measured by ELISA and colorimetry, respectively. The primary outcome variable was occurrence of infections (upper respiratory and total infections).

RESULTS

Serum 25(OH)D concentration in the vitamin D arm improved significantly by 34%, from 59.7 ± 10.9 nmol/L to 80 ± 23.3 nmol/L (P < 0.0001), but no improvement was observed for serum zinc concentration. While there was significant increase in the percentage of children reporting no or mild upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and total infections (TI) in all three groups, improvements in the supplemented groups were similar to the placebo group. However, the vitamin D arm reported lower URTI and TI status in the vitamin D sufficient versus insufficient children. Also, URTI and TI status were found to be significantly (P < 0.0001) lower in children with improved 25(OH)D versus unchanged 25(OH)D.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D-calcium supplementation helped to improve the vitamin D status but exerts no effect on the occurrence of infections when compared to the placebo group. Improvement in the serum 25(OH)D concentrations and attainment of vitamin D sufficiency may exert a beneficial effect on the infection status and needs to be investigated further. To evaluate the efficacy of zinc supplementation, higher dosages need to be administered in future studies.

Phenotypic and genetic analysis of milk and serum element concentrations in dairy cows

Enhancing micronutrient (i.e., mineral and vitamin) concentrations within milk and serum from dairy cows is important for both the health of the cow and the nutritive value of the milk for human consumption. However, a good understanding of the genetics underlying the micronutrient content in dairy cattle is needed to facilitate such enhancements through feeding or breeding practices. In this study, milk (n = 950) and serum (n = 766) samples were collected from Holstein-Friesian dairy cows (n = 479) on 19 occasions over a 59-mo period and analyzed for concentrations of important elements. Additionally, a subset of 256 milk samples was analyzed for concentrations of vitamin B₁₂. Cows belonged to 2 genetic lines (average and highest genetic merit for milk fat plus protein yield) and were assigned to 1 of 2 diets based on either a by-product or homegrown ration. Univariate models accounting for repeated records were used to analyze element and vitamin B₁₂ data and investigate the effect of genotype and feeding system as well as derive estimates of variance components and genetic parameters. Bivariate models were used to study correlations both within and between milk and serum. Only concentrations of Hg in milk were seen to be affected by genotype, with higher concentrations in cows with high genetic merit. In contrast, element concentrations were influenced by feeding system such that cows fed the homegrown diet had increased milk concentrations of Ca, Cu, I, Mn, Mo, P, and K and increased serum concentrations of Cd, Cu, Fe, Mo, and V. Cows on the by-product diet had increased milk concentrations of Mg, Se, and Na and increased serum concentrations of P and Se. Heritability (h²) estimates were obtained for 6 milk and 4 serum elements, including Mg (h²_milk = 0.30), K (h²_serum = 0.18), Ca (h²_milk = 0.20; h²_serum = 0.12), Mn (h²_milk = 0.14), Cu (h²_serum = 0.22), Zn (h²_milk = 0.24), Se (h²_milk = 0.15; h²_serum = 0.10), and Mo (h²_milk = 0.19). Significant estimates of repeatability were observed in all milk and serum quantity elements (Na, Mg, P, K, and Ca) as well as 5 milk and 7 serum trace elements. Only K in milk and serum was found to have a significant positive genetic and phenotypic correlation (0.52 and 0.22, respectively). Significant phenotypic associations were noted between milk and serum Ca (0.17), Mo (0.19), and Na (-0.79). Additional multivariate analyses between measures within sample type (i.e., milk or serum) revealed significant positive associations, both phenotypic and genetic, between some of the elements. In milk, Se was genetically correlated with Ca (0.63), Mg (0.59), Mn (0.40), P (0.53), and Zn (0.52), whereas in serum, V showed strong genetic associations with Cd (0.71), Ca (0.53), Mn (0.63), Mo (0.57), P (0.42), K (0.45), and Hg (-0.44). These results provide evidence that element concentrations in milk and blood of dairy cows are significantly influenced by both diet and genetics and demonstrate the potential for genetic selection and dietary manipulation to alter nutrient concentration to improve both cow health and the healthfulness of milk for human consumption.

Bletilla striata polysaccharides ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced injury in intestinal epithelial cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) treating on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal epithelial barrier disruption in rat intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LPS was used to stimulate the IEC-18 cells (1 μg/ml), with or without different concentrations of BSP (25, 50 and 100 μg/ml) for 24 h. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured to detect the permeability of cells. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the cell supernatant were detected with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect the mRNA levels of zonulae occludens (ZO)-1 and occludin. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis were used for analyzing the expression level and the distribution patterns of ZO-1 and occludin protein.

RESULTS

After treatment with BSP, the IL-6 and TNF-α levels in the cell supernatant were significantly decreased compared with the experiment group (P < 0.05 or 0.01). The permeability of IEC was decreased in BSP groups when compared with the experiment group (P < 0.05 or 0.01). In addition, compared with the experiment group, treatment with BSP up-regulated mRNA and protein expression levels of ZO-1 and occludin, and kept the ZO-1 and occludin protein intact in IEC-18 cells injured with LPS (P < 0.05 or 0.01).

CONCLUSION

BSP has the capacity to protect IEC-18 cells from LPS-induced injury. The mechanisms may be associated with decreasing the inflammatory cytokine levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, and elevating the expression of ZO-1 and occludin, which might serve as a new protective agent for LPS-induced intestinal epithelial barrier disruption.

The serum concentration of vitamin B12 as a biomarker of therapeutic response in tuberculosis patients with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

BACKGROUND

Prior to clinical trials of new tuberculosis (TB) drugs or therapeutic vaccines, it is necessary to develop monitoring tools to predict treatment outcomes in TB patients.

METHODS

Micronutrients concentration level was determined from a total of 262 study participants with five clinical groups: 57 TB patients coinfected with HIV (HIV+TB+), 87 active TB Patients (TB cases), 71 HIV infected without active and latent TB infection (HIV+TST-), 22 latent TB infection (TST+) and 25 healthy controls (TST-). Vitamin A concentration was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), whereas iron and vitamin B12 concentrations were measured using Cobas® 6000 analyzer.

RESULT

The serum concentration levels of iron, vitamin A and vitamin B12 had a significant difference between active TB and latent (LTBI) or healthy controls. Six months after treatment, the serum concentration levels of vitamin A, vitamin B12 and iron in tuberculosis became indistinguishable from the levels of LTBIs and healthy control individuals. The concentration levels of iron and vitamin B12 in HIV+TB+patients at the end of TB treatment were normalized to the levels observed in healthy controls (TST-) regardless of HAART treatment. However, the concentration level of vitamin A in HIV+TB+patients HAART untreated at the end of TB treatment was not normalized to the levels observed in healthy controls (TST-) or HAART untreated HIV+TST-.

CONCLUSION

Detecting serum concentration levels of vitamin B12 and vitamin A might be used as a biomarker of the diagnostic method of active TB regardless of HIV-infected individuals. Moreover, detecting serum concentration of vitamin B12 might also be used for TB treatment responses monitoring biomarker in TB-HIV-co-infected individuals regardless of HAART (in)eligibility and therapy.

Diet and nutrition: An important risk factor in leprosy

Leprosy, once considered as poor man's disease may cause severe neurological complications and physical disabilities. Classification of leprosy depends upon the cell mediated and humoral immune responses of the host, from tuberculoid to lepromatous stage. Current therapy to prevent the disease is not only very lengthy but also consists of expensive multiple antibiotics in combination. Treatment and the duration depend on the bacillary loads, from six months in paucibacillary to a year in multibacillary leprosy. Although as per WHO recommendations, these antibiotics are freely available but still out of reach to patients of many rural areas of the world. In this review, we have focused on the nutritional aspect during the multi-drug therapy of leprosy along with the role of nutrition, particularly malnutrition, on susceptibility of Mycobacterium leprae and development of clinical symptoms. We further discussed the diet plan for the patients and how diet plans can affect the immune responses during the disease.

Effect of a trace mineral injection at weaning on growth, antioxidant enzymes activity, and immune system in Nellore calves

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of injectable trace minerals (ITM) at the time of weaning on growth, antioxidant, and immune response of Nellore (Bos indicus) calves. Weaned calves (n = 159; 213 ± 32 kg) were stratified by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: injection (1 mL/45 kg of BW) of saline or ITM. Saline solution consisted of 0.9% NaCl, whereas ITM had 60, 10, 5, and 15 mg/mL of Zn, Mn, Se, and Cu, respectively. The application of ITM increased (P ≤ 0.04) the plasma concentrations of superoxide dismutase on day 7 and plasma glutathione peroxidase on day 7 and day 21. The ITM calves had greater leukocyte concentration on day 64 (P = 0.04), whereas neutrophil and mast cell concentrations did not differ (P ≥ 0.67) between treatments. The ITM calves tended (P ≤ 0.08) to have greater concentrations of lymphocytes on day 64 and eosinophils on day 21, but not (P ≥ 0.15) monocytes, erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin compared to saline calves. The ITM calves had less mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC; P = 0.02) and tended to have increased platelet concentrations on day 21 (P = 0.08). Growth performance did not differ between treatments (P ≥ 0.78). Thus, ITM at weaning did not impact growth performance, but increased plasma concentrations of antioxidant enzymes and blood platelets, improved components of the immune system, and reduced MCHC of Nellore calves.

Immunomodulatory and Antimicrobial Effects of Vitamin C

Humans have lost their vitamin C-synthesizing capacities during evolution. Therefore, the uptake of this essential compound from external sources is mandatory in order to prevent vitamin C-deficient conditions resulting in severe morbidities such as scurvy. The potent antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiinfectious effects of vitamin C are known since the 1930s. We here (i) review the impact of vitamin C on innate and adaptive immune functions, (ii) provide an overview of its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties, and finally, (iii) discuss vitamin C as an adjunct treatment option for the combat of human infections by bacteria, particularly by emerging multidrug-resistant species.

Salivary Level of Trace Element in Oral Lichen Planus, A Premalignant Condition

Background:

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a common inflammatory disease of unknown cause that knows also as a premalignant condition. Recent studies contributed nutritional factors to the pathogenesis of many autoimmune disorders. Objective: The aim of present study was to investigate the salivary levels of Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu) in this disorder.

Materials and Methods:

In this observational case-control study, the unstimulated saliva of 40 patients with OLP and 40 age and sex matched healthy control subjects were collected. The salivary levels of Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn and Cu were determined using ICP-AES.

Results:

Mg levels were significantly lower in OLP patients than in healthy controls, although it didn’t differ significantly between erosive and non-erosive types of Lichen Planus. Also there was no meaningful relationship between the levels of Ca, Fe, Zn and Cu in case and control groups.

Conclusion:

Trace elements such as Mg may have a role in ethiopathogenesis of OLP.

Markers of Systemic Inflammation and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction Are Not Reduced by Zinc or Multivitamins in Tanzanian Infants: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether daily zinc and/or multivitamin supplementation reduce biomarkers of environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), systemic inflammation, or markers of growth in a sample of infants from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

STUDY DESIGN

Subgroup analysis of infants participating in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial received daily oral supplementation of zinc, multivitamins, zinc + multivitamins, or placebo for 18 months starting at 6 weeks of age. EED (anti-flagellin and anti-lipopolysaccharide immunoglobulins), systemic inflammation (C-reactive protein and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein), and growth biomarkers (insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3) were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in a subsample of 590 infants at 6 weeks and 6 months of age. EED biomarkers also were measured in 162 infants at 12 months of age.

RESULTS

With the exception of anti-lipopolysaccharide IgG concentrations, which were significantly greater in infants who received multivitamins compared with those who did not (1.41 ± 0.61 vs 1.26 ± 0.65, P = .006), and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 concentrations, which were significantly lower in children who received zinc compared with those who did not (981.13 ± 297.59 vs 1019.10 ± 333.01, P = .03), at 6 months of age, we did not observe any significant treatment effects of zinc or multivitamins on EED, systemic inflammation, or growth biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither zinc nor multivitamin supplementation ameliorated markers of EED or systemic inflammation during infancy. Other interventions should be prioritized for future trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00421668.

Mutualist-Provisioned Resources Impact Vector Competency

Parasites elicit several physiological changes in their host to enhance transmission. Little is known about the functional association between parasitism and microbiota-provisioned resources typically dedicated to animal hosts and how these goods may be rerouted to optimize parasite development. This study is the first to identify a specific symbiont-generated metabolite that impacts insect vector competence by facilitating parasite establishment and, thus, eventual transmission. Specifically, we demonstrate that the tsetse fly obligate mutualist Wigglesworthia provisions folate (vitamin B₉) that pathogenic African trypanosomes exploit in an effort to successfully establish an infection in the vector’s MG. This process is essential for the parasite to complete its life cycle and be transmitted to a new vertebrate host. Disrupting metabolic contributions provided by the microbiota of arthropod disease vectors may fuel future innovative control strategies while also offering minimal nontarget effects.

Many symbionts supplement their host’s diet with essential nutrients. However, whether these nutrients also enhance parasitism is unknown. In this study, we investigated whether folate (vitamin B₉) production by the tsetse fly (Glossina spp.) essential mutualist, Wigglesworthia, aids auxotrophic African trypanosomes in completing their life cycle within this obligate vector. We show that the expression of Wigglesworthia folate biosynthesis genes changes with the progression of trypanosome infection within tsetse. The disruption of Wigglesworthia folate production caused a reduction in the percentage of flies that housed midgut (MG) trypanosome infections. However, decreased folate did not prevent MG trypanosomes from migrating to and establishing an infection in the fly’s salivary glands, thus suggesting that nutrient requirements vary throughout the trypanosome life cycle. We further substantiated that trypanosomes rely on symbiont-generated folate by feeding this vitamin to Glossina brevipalpis, which exhibits low trypanosome vector competency and houses Wigglesworthia incapable of producing folate. Folate-supplemented G. brevipalpis flies were significantly more susceptible to trypanosome infection, further demonstrating that this vitamin facilitates parasite infection establishment. Our cumulative results provide evidence that Wigglesworthia provides a key metabolite (folate) that is “hijacked” by trypanosomes to enhance their infectivity, thus indirectly impacting tsetse species vector competency. Parasite dependence on symbiont-derived micronutrients, which likely also occurs in other arthropod vectors, represents a relationship that may be exploited to reduce disease transmission.

Selenium-enriched Bacillus paralicheniformis SR14 attenuates H2O2-induced oxidative damage in porcine jejunum epithelial cells via the MAPK pathway

Oxidative stress plays a detrimental role in gastrointestinal disorders. Although selenium-enriched probiotics have been shown to strengthen oxidation resistance and innate immunity, the potential mechanism remains unclear. Here, we focused on the biological function of our material, selenium-enriched Bacillus paralicheniformis SR14 (Se-BP), and investigated the antioxidative effects of Se-BP and its underlying molecular mechanism in porcine jejunum epithelial cells. First, we prepared Se-BP and quantified for its selenium and bacterial contents. Then, in vitro free radical scavenging activity was measured to evaluate the potential antioxidant effect of Se-BP. Third, to induce an appropriate oxidative stress model, we adopted different concentrations of H₂O₂ and determined the most suitable concentration by a methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Regarding treatment with Se-BP and H₂O₂, we found that Se-BP increased cell viability and prevented lactate dehydrogenase release when administered prior to H₂O₂ exposure. Additionally, Se-BP markedly suppressed reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde production in cells and effectively attenuated apoptosis. Compared with incubation with H₂O₂ alone, treatment with Se-BP significantly promoted phosphorylation of ERK and p38 MAPK signaling molecules. When administered with ERK and p38 MAPK inhibitors, Se-BP did not alleviate the decrease in cell viability. Our results suggest that Se-BP prevents H₂O₂-induced cell damage by activating the ERK/p38 MAPK signaling pathways.

Effect of zinc addition on the immune response and production performance of broilers: a meta-analysis

Objective

This study performed a meta-analysis of published trials to determine the effects of zinc on the immune response and production performance of broilers.

Methods

A database was built from published literature regarding the addition of zinc forms or doses and their relation to the immune response and production performance of broilers. Different doses or forms of zinc were identified in the database. The recorded parameters were related to the immune response and production performance. The database contained a total of 323 data points from 41 studies that met the criteria. Then, the data were processed for a meta-analysis using a mixed model methodology. The doses or different forms of zinc were considered fixed effects, different studies were treated as random effects, and p-values were used as the model statistics.

Results

An increase in zinc dose increased (p<0.05) pancreas metallothionein (MT) and zinc concentrations in the plasma, tibia and meat, all in quadratic patterns, but linearly decreased (p<0.05) the heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio. Regarding the different zinc forms, both inorganic and organic zinc increased (p<0.05) the zinc concentrations in the plasma and tibia, the calcium and phosphorus contents in the tibia, and the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase in meat as compared to control. An increase in zinc dose increased average daily gain (ADG) and decreased feed conversion ratio (FCR) following a quadratic pattern (p<0.05). Inorganic and organic zinc decreased (p<0.05) FCR and H/L ratio than that of control, but these two forms were similar for these parameters.

Conclusion

Zinc addition has a positive impact on immunity and broiler production. Zinc can suppress stress and inhibit the occurrence of lipid peroxidation in broilers, and it can also improve ADG, FCR, and the quality of broiler carcasses.

Dietary habits in adult Japanese patients with atopic dermatitis

Dietary habits can modulate the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. We evaluated these habits in adult Japanese patients with atopic dermatitis using a validated, brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire and compared the results to those of age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Patients with atopic dermatitis showed higher intakes of carbohydrate and potatoes and lower intakes of alcohol, niacin, meat and oils/fats compared with those of the healthy controls. The results of logistic regression analysis showed that the intake of alcohol was negatively associated with atopic dermatitis (odds ratio, 0.905; 95% confidence interval, 0.832-0.983; P = 0.0181). The intakes of vitamin B₆ and fruit were positively correlated with the severity scoring of atopic dermatitis. Multiple regression analysis revealed that vitamin B₆ intake was a predictor of the severity scoring of atopic dermatitis (β = 26.98508709, t = 2.3995292, P = 0.01933781). The intakes of vegetable fat, n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, and confections were lower in the severe atopic dermatitis group (severity scoring of atopic dermatitis, ≥33) than those in the mild group. Atopic dermatitis is negatively associated with alcohol intake, and intake of vitamin B₆ is a predictor of severity scoring of atopic dermatitis. The intake of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid is lower in the severe atopic dermatitis group than that in the mild group. Further study is warranted on the relationships of these results with abnormal immune responses, impaired skin barrier or pruritus in atopic dermatitis.

Pre-natal folic acid and iron supplementation and atopic dermatitis in the first 6 years of life

Exposure in utero has been suggested to influence health later in life. The aim of this study was to investigate, if the use of prenatal food supplements was associated with atopic dermatitis in the offspring. Mothers who gave birth in the hospital G. B. Grassi were invited to participate in the study (n = 395). Information on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical data of the mothers and babies, vegetables and fruit intake, food avoidance, and food supplements use during pregnancy, depression status, and environmental exposure was obtained for all subjects in the hospital at the time of delivery. Data on breastfeeding practice, introduction of weaning foods, day care attendance, and atopic dermatitis were collected in the postnatal follow-ups. Logistic regression was applied to estimate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Children in which mothers used both iron and folic acid supplementation had a fourfold decreased risk of developing atopic dermatitis [OR = 0.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06-0.79, p = 0.02], after adjusting for possible confounding factors. Findings suggest an independent and protective effect of prenatal folic acid and iron supplementation for atopic dermatitis in children.

Optically selective and electrochemically active chemosensors for Cu (II) ions based on a skeleton of 2-(benzylideneamino)-4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-3',6'-dihydroxyspiro-[isoindoline-1, 9'-xanthen]-3-one

A new series of fluorescent chemosensors (7a-7f) based on a core skeleton of 2-(benzylideneamino)-4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-3',6'-dihydroxyspiro-[isoindoline-1,9'-xanthen]-3-one was synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, NMR and mass spectrometric techniques. The sensitivity and selectivity of probes (7a-7f) for Cu²⁺ ions were investigated by colorimetric, UV-vis absorption, fluorescence emission spectral studies and electrochemical analysis. These optical probes exhibited higher sensitivity and selectivity towards Cu²⁺ ions in DMSO solution over various other metal cations under consideration. Induced changes were observable by naked-eye. Based on fluorescence titration spectra and Job's-plot, it was found that the complexes formed between probes (7a-7f) and Cu²⁺ ions were in 1:1 stoichiometric ratio. The detection limit for chemosensors (7a-7f) were calculated to be 3.0834 × 10^-7-3.6425 × 10^-7 M.

Measurement of micronutrient deficiency associated biomarkers in dried blood spots using a multiplexed immunoarray

Simplifying blood collection is often critical when collecting specimens in remote and/or austere settings. The use of dried blood spots (DBS) offers a practical collection method suitable for a wide variety of analytes. A small volume of whole blood can be obtained rapidly through a minimally invasive heel- or finger-stick using a disposable safety lancet. Once dried, the samples require no further processing, are stable for months or longer, pose minimal risk of disease transmission, and are easy to ship. DBS are often used in demographic health surveys to assess infectious disease status in vulnerable populations. These samples can be used to screen biomarkers of micronutrient deficiency (MND) and inflammation. We recently described a multiplexed immunoarray, the Q-plex human micronutrient array, which can simultaneously quantify seven biomarkers related to MND, inflammation and malarial antigenemia using plasma (alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, C-reactive protein, ferritin, histidine-rich protein 2, retinol binding protein, soluble transferrin receptor, and thyroglobulin). In this work, we present a protocol for preparing eluates from DBS samples and their measurement using a modified protocol for this new tool. We evaluated the concordance of analyte concentrations (excluding ferritin) from a panel ninety samples of DBS prepared from anticoagulated venous blood and paired K2-EDTA plasma. The results show high correlation between DBS eluates and wet plasma for five of the six analytes screened, suggesting the Q-plex human micronutrient array can be used with DBS samples, but also highlighting that anticoagulants can have a negative effects on some test components.

Role of Zinc and Selenium in Oxidative Stress and Immunosenescence: Implications for Healthy Aging and Longevity

Aging is a complex process that includes gradual and spontaneous biochemical and physiological changes which contributes to a decline in performance and increased susceptibility to diseases. Zn and Se are essential trace elements that play a pivotal role in immune functions and antioxidant defense and, consequently, are claimed to play also a role in successful aging trajectories. Consistently with their nature of essential trace elements, a plethora of data obtained “in vitro” and “in vivo” (in humans and animal models) support the relevance of Zn and Se for both the innate and adoptive immune response. Moreover, Zn and Se are strictly involved in the synthesis and regulation of activity of proteins and enzymes, e.g., metallothioneins (MT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), that are necessary for our endogenous antioxidant response. This is clearly important to protect our cells from oxidative damage and to slow the decline of our immune system with aging. Age-related changes affecting tissue levels of Zn and Se may indicate that the risk of Zn and Se deficiency increases with aging. However, it is still unclear which of these changes can be the consequence of a “real deficiency” and which can be part of our physiological compensatory response to the accumulating damage occurring in aging. Furthermore, the upregulation of antioxidant proteins (Zn and Se dependent) may be a manifestation of self-induced oxidative stress. By the way, Zn and Se dependent proteins are modulated not only by nutritional status, but also by well-known hallmarks of aging that play antagonistic functions, such as the deregulated nutrient sensing pathways and cellular senescence. Thus, it is not an easy task to conduct Zn or Se supplementation in elderly and it is emerging consistent that these kind of supplementation requires an individualized approach. Anyway, there is consistent support that supplementation with Zn using doses around 10 mg/day is generally safe in elderly and may even improve part of immune performances in those subjects with a baseline deficiency. Regarding Se supplementation, it may induce both beneficial and detrimental effects on cellular immunity depending on the form of Se, supplemental dose, and delivery matrix. The nutritional association of supplements based on “Zn plus Se” is hypothesized to provide additional benefits, but this will likely need a more complex individualized approach. The improvement of our knowledge around screening and detection of Zn and Se deficiency in aging could lead to substantial benefits in terms of efficacy of nutritional supplements aimed at ameliorate performance and health in aging.

The Role of Diet, Micronutrients and the Gut Microbiota in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: New Perspectives from the Gut⁻Retina Axis

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex multifactorial disease and the primary cause of legal and irreversible blindness among individuals aged ≥65 years in developed countries. Globally, it affects 30–50 million individuals, with an estimated increase of approximately 200 million by 2020 and approximately 300 million by 2040. Currently, the neovascular form may be able to be treated with the use of anti-VEGF drugs, while no effective treatments are available for the dry form. Many studies, such as the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and AREDS 2, have shown a potential role of micronutrient supplementation in lowering the risk of progression of the early stages of AMD. Recently, low-grade inflammation, sustained by dysbiosis and a leaky gut, has been shown to contribute to the development of AMD. Given the ascertained influence of the gut microbiota in systemic low-grade inflammation and its potential modulation by macro- and micro-nutrients, a potential role of diet in AMD has been proposed. This review discusses the role of the gut microbiota in the development of AMD. Using PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, we searched for recent scientific evidence discussing the impact of dietary habits (high-fat and high-glucose or -fructose diets), micronutrients (vitamins C, E, and D, zinc, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) and omega-3 fatty acids on the modulation of the gut microbiota and their relationship with AMD risk and progression.

Selenium deficiency impaired structural integrity of the head kidney, spleen and skin in young grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

This study focused on the effects of dietary selenium deficiency on structural integrity of the head kidney, spleen and skin in young grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). A total of 540 healthy grass carp (mean weight 226.48 ± 0.68 g) were randomly divided into six groups and fed six separate diets with graded dietary levels of selenium (0.025-1.049 mg/kg diet) for 80 days. Results showed that selenium deficiency (1) caused oxidative damage in part by reducing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (such as SOD, CAT, GPx, GST and GR) and glutathione (GSH) content, down-regulating the transcript abundances of antioxidant enzymes (except GSTp1) partly related to Kelch-like-ECH-associated protein 1a (Keap1a)/NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signalling; (2) aggravated apoptosis in part by up-regulating the mRNA levels of caspase-2, -3, -7, -8 and -9, which were partially related to p38MAPK/FasL/caspase-8 signalling and JNK/(BAX, Bcl-2, Mcl-1b, IAP)/(Apaf1, caspase-9) signalling; (3) damaged the tight junctions in part by down-regulating the mRNA levels of ZO-1 (except spleen), ZO-2 (except spleen), claudin-c, -f, -7, -11 and claudin-15, and up-regulating the mRNA levels of claudin-12, which were partially related to myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) signalling. Interesting, selenium deficiency failed to affect the expression of GSTp1, Keap1a, occludin, claudin-b, claudin-3c, ZO-1 (spleen only) and ZO-2 (spleen only) in the head kidney, spleen and skin of grass carp. Finally, based on the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in the head kidney, spleen and skin, the dietary selenium requirements for young grass carp were estimated to be 0.558-0.588 mg/kg diet.

Immune Function and Micronutrient Requirements Change over the Life Course

As humans age, the risk and severity of infections vary in line with immune competence according to how the immune system develops, matures, and declines. Several factors influence the immune system and its competence, including nutrition. A bidirectional relationship among nutrition, infection and immunity exists: changes in one component affect the others. For example, distinct immune features present during each life stage may affect the type, prevalence, and severity of infections, while poor nutrition can compromise immune function and increase infection risk. Various micronutrients are essential for immunocompetence, particularly vitamins A, C, D, E, B2, B6, and B12, folic acid, iron, selenium, and zinc. Micronutrient deficiencies are a recognized global public health issue, and poor nutritional status predisposes to certain infections. Immune function may be improved by restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected. Diet alone may be insufficient and tailored micronutrient supplementation based on specific age-related needs necessary. This review looks at immune considerations specific to each life stage, the consequent risk of infection, micronutrient requirements and deficiencies exhibited over the life course, and the available evidence regarding the effects of micronutrient supplementation on immune function and infection.

Efficacy and safety of Eurycoma longifolia (Physta®) water extract plus multivitamins on quality of life, mood and stress: a randomized placebo-controlled and parallel study

Background

The use of alternative and complementary medicines to alleviate stress has increased to avoid the negative effects of pharmaceutical drugs.

Objective

This study investigated the safety and efficacy of Eurycoma longifolia in combination with multivitamins (EL+MV) versus placebo on improving quality of life (QoL), mood and stress in moderately stressed healthy participants.

Methods

This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled 24-week study enrolled 93 participants aged 25-65 years, with a body mass index of 18-30 kg/m², scoring ≤18 in tension and ≤14 in fatigue subscale of Profiles of Mood Scores (POMS) questionnaire and supplemented with EL+MV or placebo. The primary endpoints were QoL measured by 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) questionnaire and mood measured by POMS. The secondary endpoint was stress measured by Multi-Modal Stress Questionnaire (MMSQ). The safety of the intervention product was measured by complete metabolic panel, lipid and renal analysis including several immune parameters.

Results

While there were no significant between-group differences, within-group improvements were observed in the SF-12 QoL, POMS and MMSQ domains. In the SF-12 domain, improvements were seen in role limitation due to emotional health (P = 0.05), mental component domain (P < 0.001), emotional well-being (P < 0.001), social functioning (P = 0.002) as well as vitality (P = 0.001) at week 12. An increasing trend in POMS-vigour domain was also observed in the EL+MV group at week 12. A 15% decrease in physical stress domain (P < 0.05) compared with 0.7% in the placebo group was also observed in MMSQ. When the subjects were subgrouped according to age, 25-45 and 46-65 years of age, for primary outcomes, between-group significance was observed in the 25-45 year group in the social functioning domain of SF-12 (P = 0.021) and POMS-vigour (P = 0.036) in the 46-65 year group. No significant changes were observed in vital signs and complete metabolic panel. Regarding immune parameters, the lymphocytes increased significantly in the active group (P≤0.05). In total, 13 adverse events were reported: six on placebo and seven on EL+MV.

Conclusion

EL+MV may support the QoL, mood, stress and immune parameters in healthy participants.

Trial registration

This study has been registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02865863).

Neglected tropical diseases and vitamin B12: a review of the current evidence

Vitamin B12 deficiency is an urgent public health problem that disproportionately affects individuals in low- and middle-income settings, where the burden of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is also unacceptably high. Emerging evidence supports a potential role of micronutrients in modulating the risk and severity of NTDs. However, the role of vitamin B12 in NTD pathogenesis is unknown. This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the evidence on the role of vitamin B12 in the etiology of NTDs. Ten studies were included in this review: one study using an in vitro/animal model, eight observational human studies and one ancillary analysis conducted within an intervention trial. Most research to date has focused on vitamin B12 status and helminthic infections. One study examined the effects of vitamin B12 interventions in NTDs in animal and in vitro models. Few prospective studies have been conducted to date to examine the role of vitamin B12 in NTDs. The limited literature in this area constrains our ability to make specific recommendations. Larger prospective human studies are needed to elucidate the role of vitamin B12 in NTD risk and severity in order to inform interventions in at-risk populations.

Pemetrexed, Vitamin B12, and Thoracic Tumors: The Times, They Are A-Changin'

The administration of pemetrexed requires routine supplementation with vitamin B12 and folate, even if blood concentrations are normal, in order to mitigate its hematologic toxicity. Emerging data suggest that such premedication can be initiated less than 1 week before starting chemotherapy. The current available data on later administration of vitamin B12 in patients with thoracic tumors are placed into a general context, and the possible role of such strategy in the era of immunooncology is discussed.

Concentrations of mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) in afterbirth and their relations with various factors

The aim of the study was to evaluate Hg and Se concentrations and Se:Hg molar ratios in the placenta, umbilical cord and fetal membranes, and to examine the relationship between the concentrations of the elements and selected factors. The study material consisted of the placenta, umbilical cord and fetal membranes obtained from 91 healthy women from northwestern and central Poland. In our study mean Hg and Se concentrations in afterbirth were ~ 0.01 mg/kg dry weight (dw) and ≤ 0.5 mg/kg dw, respectively. Correlation analysis showed negative relationships between placenta weight and Se concentration in the placenta and umbilical cord, as well as between placenta length and Se levels in the umbilical cord. We found negative correlations between THg concentration in the placenta and birth weight and between Se concentration in the placenta and umbilical cord and the morphological parameters of the placenta. Furthermore, we noted new types of interactions in specific parts of the afterbirth. In our study, Se:THg molar ratios ranged from 5 to 626; these values indicate protection against Hg toxicity.

Potential common factors associated with predisposition to common cold in middle-aged and elderly Japanese: A community-based cross-sectional study

People worldwide frequently catch a common cold, which occasionally develops into secondary severe conditions such as pneumonia. However, it is unclear whether predisposition to the common cold is associated with the individual's characteristics including age, body weight, lifestyles, diets, and intestinal functions, besides exposure to a responsible pathogen. We addressed this issue epidemiologically considering many relevant clinical factors.We reviewed data from a cross-sectional study consisting of 39,524 apparently healthy Japanese aged 40 to 79 years (26,975 men and 12,549 women) who underwent a checkup in 2007. Self-reported predisposition to common cold (SPCC) and relevant clinical conditions and parameters were considered.We observed no significant difference in most clinical parameters including age, body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and prevalence of men and current smokers between subjects with and without SPCC. In univariate analysis, circulating white blood cell (WBC) count and serum alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) were significantly higher in subjects with SPCC than in those without, whereas serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and duration of sleep were lower. In logistic regression analysis after full adjustment for relevant confounding factors, BMI categories except BMI of ≥27.0 kg/m were significantly associated with SPCC compared with BMI of 23.0 to 24.9 kg/m. Short duration of sleep (≤5 hours), occasional alcohol drinking, and no-exercise were significantly associated with SPCC compared with 7 hours sleep duration, no-drinking alcohol, and low frequent exercise (twice per month), respectively. All gastrointestinal disorders (gastric complaints, constipation, and diarrhea) were independently associated with SPCC. Imbalanced diet and taking a snack were also associated with SPCC in a degree dependent manner. Furthermore, WBC count, serum ALT, and HDL-C (as continuous variables) were associated with SPCC (HDL-C was inversely), whereas no significant association was observed between SPCC and age, smoking, HbA1c, and pharmacotherapy for diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.Our results demonstrated that multifactorial conditions and parameters might be simultaneously associated with the predisposition to common cold. Prospective studies including detailed common cold questionnaire and measurements are needed to confirm currently suspected causative and protective factors.

Self-Care for Common Colds: The Pivotal Role of Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Zinc, and Echinacea in Three Main Immune Interactive Clusters (Physical Barriers, Innate and Adaptive Immunity) Involved during an Episode of Common Colds-Practical Advice on Dosages and on the Time to Take These Nutrients/Botanicals in order to Prevent or Treat Common Colds

Maintaining a normal healthy immune defense system lowers the incidence and/or the severity of symptoms and/or the duration of common cold (CC). Physical barriers and innate and adaptive immunity have been involved during a CC episode. Vitamins C and D, zinc, and Echinacea have evidence-based efficacy on these immune system barriers. This review includes 82 eligible studies to consider the preventive role of these nutrients in immune clusters and in CC to provide advice on dosage and assumption of these nutrients. Regarding vitamin C, regular supplementation (1 to 2 g/day) has shown that vitamin C reduces the duration (in adults by 8%, in children by 14%) and the severity of CC. Considering zinc, the supplementation may shorten the duration of colds by approximately 33%. CC patients may be instructed to try zinc within 24 hours of onset of symptoms. As for vitamin D, the supplementation protected against CC overall, considering baseline levels and age. Patients with vitamin D deficiency and those not receiving bolus doses experienced the most benefit. Regarding Echinacea, prophylactic treatment with this extract (2400 mg/day) over 4 months appeared to be beneficial for preventing/treating CC. In conclusion, the current evidence of efficacy for zinc, vitamins D and C, and Echinacea is so interesting that CC patients may be encouraged to try them for preventing/treating their colds, although further studies are needed on this topic.

Impact of a 3-Months Vegetarian Diet on the Gut Microbiota and Immune Repertoire

The dietary pattern can influence the immune system directly, but may also modulate it indirectly by regulating the gut microbiota. Here, we investigated the effect of a 3-months lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet on the diversity of gut microbiota and the immune system in healthy omnivorous volunteers, using high-throughput sequencing technologies. The short-term vegetarian diet did not have any major effect on the diversity of the immune system and the overall composition of the metagenome. The prevalence of bacterial genera/species with known beneficial effects on the intestine, including butyrate-producers and probiotic species and the balance of autoimmune-related variable genes/families were, however, altered in the short-term vegetarians. A number of bacterial species that are associated with the expression level of IgA, a key immunoglobulin class that protects the gastrointestinal mucosal system, were also identified. Furthermore, a lower diversity of T-cell repertoire and expression level of IgE, as well as a reduced abundance of inflammation-related genes in the gut microbiota were potentially associated with a control group with long-term vegetarians. Thus, the composition and duration of the diet may have an impact on the balance of pro-/anti-inflammatory factors in the gut microbiota and immune system.

Copper and ceruloplasmin dyshomeostasis in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of multiple sclerosis subjects

Although many studies have been carried out in order to understand the implication of copper (Cu) in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), the exact role that this metal plays in the disease is not still clear. Because of the lack of information in this subject, the present study compared the serum and cerebrospinal (CSF) levels of copper in MS patients in respect to a control group, matched for age and sex, finding a significant increase of metal concentrations, in both biological fluids of MS subjects. To confirm the possible impairment of Cu metabolism, we analyzed ceruloplasmin (Cp) level and activity, seeing as this protein is an established peripheral marker in diseases associated with Cu imbalance. By comparing these two parameters between control and MS subjects, we found an increase of Cp levels, associated with a decrease in Cp activity, in the second group. By analysing these data, free copper levels were calculated, significantly increased in serum of MS subjects; the increase in free copper could be one of the predisposing factors responsible for the Cu altered levels in CSF of MS patients. At the same time, this alteration could be attributable to the inability to incorporate Cu by Cp, probably due to the high oxidative environment found in serum of MS patients. Overall, all these copper alterations may play a role in MS pathogenesis.

Anthropogenic food provisioning and immune phenotype: Association among supplemental food, body condition, and immunological parameters in urban environments

Direct or indirect supplemental feeding of free-ranging animals occurs worldwide, resulting in significant impacts on population density or altered demographic processes. Another potential impact of increased energy intake from supplemental feeding is altered immunocompetence. As immune system maintenance is energetically costly, there may be trade-offs between immune responses and other energy-demanding physiological processes in individual animals. Although increased availability of food sources through supplemental feeding is expected to increase the overall immunocompetence of animals, empirical data verifying the association between supplemental feeding and different immune parameters are lacking. Understanding the potential influence of supplemental feeding on immune phenotypes is critical, as it may also impact host-pathogen dynamics in free-ranging animals. Using urban stray cats as a study model, we tested for associations between the intensity of supplemental feeding due to cat caretaker activity (CCA); body condition; and immune phenotype (bacterial killing assay (BKA), immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration, and leukocyte counts). Significantly higher bacterial killing ability was observed in cats from high CCA districts, whereas higher IgG concentration and eosinophil counts were observed in cats from low CCA districts. Other leukocyte counts and body condition indices showed no significant association with CCA. We observed varying patterns of different immune components in relation to supplemental feeding. Out data suggest that supplemental feeding influences immune phenotype, not only by means of energy provisioning, but also by potentially reducing exposure rates to parasite infections through stray cat behavioral changes.

Palliative effects of Moringa olifera ethanolic extract on hemato-immunologic impacts of melamine in rats

Melamine (MEL) is a widespread food contaminant and adulterant. Moringa olifera is a widely known medicinal plant with various pharmacological properties. Herein, this study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the probable protective or therapeutic role of M. olifera ethanolic extract (MOE) against MEL induced hemato-immune toxic hazards. Fifty Sprague Dawely male rats were orally treated with distilled water, MOE (800 mg/kg bw), MEL (700 mg/kg bw), MOE/MEl or MOE + MEl. Erythrogram and leukogram profiling were evaluated to assess hematological status. Innate immune functions were evaluated via measuring lysozyme levels, nitric oxide concentration, and bactericidal activity of phagocytes. Serum immunoglobulin levels were estimated as indicators of humoral immunity. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluations of splenic tissues were also performed. The results indicated that MEL caused a significant decline in RBC, Hb, PCV, total WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, phagocytes bactericidal activity, lysozyme activity, nitric oxide, total IgM and IgG levels. Also, MEL induced various pathologic lesions in the spleen with strong expression of CD4 and CD8 positive cells. MOE significantly counteracted the former anaemic, leucopenic, innate and humoral depressant effects of MEL particularly at co-exposure. In conclusion, these findings revealed that MOE could be candidate therapy against MEL hemato-immunotoxic impacts.

DNA repair protein APE1 is involved in host response during pneumococcal meningitis and its expression can be modulated by vitamin B6

Background

The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during pneumococcal meningitis (PM) leads to severe DNA damage in the neurons and is the major cause of cell death during infection. Hence, the use of antioxidants as adjuvant therapy has been investigated. Previous studies have demonstrated the possible participation of apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease (APE1) during PM. The aims of this study were to investigate the APE1 expression in the cortical and hippocampal tissues of infant Wistar rats infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae and its association with cell death and understand the role of vitamin B6 (vitB6) as a protective factor against cell death.

Methods

APE1 expression and oxidative stress markers were analyzed at two-time points, 20 and 24 h post infection (p.i.), in the cortex (CX) and hippocampus (HC) of rats supplemented with vitB6. Statistical analyses were performed by the nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis test using Dunn’s post test.

Results

Our results showed high protein levels of APE1 in CX and HC of infected rats. In the CX, at 20 h p.i., vitB6 supplementation led to the reduction of expression of APE1 and apoptosis-inducing factor, while no significant changes in the transcript levels of caspase-3 were observed. Furthermore, levels of carbonyl content and glutamate in the CX were reduced by vitB6 supplementation at the same time point of 20 h p.i.. Since our data showed a significant effect of vitB6 on the CX at 20 h p.i. rather than that at 24 h p.i., we evaluated the effect of administering a second dose of vitB6 at 18 h p.i. and sacrifice at 24 h p.i.. Reduction in the oxidative stress and APE1 levels were observed, although the latter was not significant. Although the levels of APE1 was not significantly changed in the HC with vitB6 adjuvant therapy, vitB6 supplementation prevented the formation of the truncated form of APE1 (34 kDa) that is associated with apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that PM affects APE1 expression, which can be modulated by vitB6. Additionally, vitB6 contributes to the reduction of glutamate and ROS levels. Besides the potential to reduce cell death and oxidative stress during neuroinflammation, vitB6 showed enhanced effect on the CX than on the HC during PM.

They Are What You Eat: Can Nutritional Factors during Gestation and Early Infancy Modulate the Neonatal Immune Response?

The ontogeny of the human immune system is sensitive to nutrition even in the very early embryo, with both deficiency and excess of macro- and micronutrients being potentially detrimental. Neonates are particularly vulnerable to infectious disease due to the immaturity of the immune system and modulation of nutritional immunity may play a role in this sensitivity. This review examines whether nutrition around the time of conception, throughout pregnancy, and in early neonatal life may impact on the developing infant immune system.

Impact of Childhood Malnutrition on Host Defense and Infection

The global impact of childhood malnutrition is staggering. The synergism between malnutrition and infection contributes substantially to childhood morbidity and mortality. Anthropometric indicators of malnutrition are associated with the increased risk and severity of infections caused by many pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and helminths. Since childhood malnutrition commonly involves the inadequate intake of protein and calories, with superimposed micronutrient deficiencies, the causal factors involved in impaired host defense are usually not defined. This review focuses on literature related to impaired host defense and the risk of infection in primary childhood malnutrition. Particular attention is given to longitudinal and prospective cohort human studies and studies of experimental animal models that address causal, mechanistic relationships between malnutrition and host defense. Protein and micronutrient deficiencies impact the hematopoietic and lymphoid organs and compromise both innate and adaptive immune functions. Malnutrition-related changes in intestinal microbiota contribute to growth faltering and dysregulated inflammation and immune function. Although substantial progress has been made in understanding the malnutrition-infection synergism, critical gaps in our understanding remain. We highlight the need for mechanistic studies that can lead to targeted interventions to improve host defense and reduce the morbidity and mortality of infectious diseases in this vulnerable population.

Vitamin C and Immune Function

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient for humans, with pleiotropic functions related to its ability to donate electrons. It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin, thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells, such as neutrophils, and can enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species, and ultimately microbial killing. It is also needed for apoptosis and clearance of the spent neutrophils from sites of infection by macrophages, thereby decreasing necrosis/NETosis and potential tissue damage. The role of vitamin C in lymphocytes is less clear, but it has been shown to enhance differentiation and proliferation of B- and T-cells, likely due to its gene regulating effects. Vitamin C deficiency results in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections. In turn, infections significantly impact on vitamin C levels due to enhanced inflammation and metabolic requirements. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. Prophylactic prevention of infection requires dietary vitamin C intakes that provide at least adequate, if not saturating plasma levels (i.e., 100–200 mg/day), which optimize cell and tissue levels. In contrast, treatment of established infections requires significantly higher (gram) doses of the vitamin to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand.

Immunometabolism, pregnancy, and nutrition

The emerging field of immunometabolism has substantially progressed over the last years and provided pivotal insights into distinct metabolic regulators and reprogramming pathways of immune cell populations in various immunological settings. However, insights into immunometabolic reprogramming in the context of reproduction are still enigmatic. During pregnancy, the maternal immune system needs to actively adapt to the presence of the fetal antigens, i.e., by functional modifications of distinct innate immune cell subsets, the generation of regulatory T cells, and the suppression of an anti-fetal effector T cell response. Considering that metabolic pathways have been shown to affect the functional role of such immune cells in a number of settings, we here review the potential role of immunometabolism with regard to the molecular and cellular mechanisms necessary for successful reproduction. Since immunometabolism holds the potential for a therapeutic approach to alter the course of immune diseases, we further highlight how a targeted metabolic reprogramming of immune cells may be triggered by maternal anthropometric or nutritional aspects.