Flow-cytometric analysis of reactive oxygen species in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with thyroid dysfunction

The role and mechanisms of the two-component system EnvZ/OmpR on the intracellular survival of Aeromonas hydrophila

Aeromonas hydrophila infections are common in aquaculture. Our previous studies found that the A. hydrophila B11 strain can survive in fish macrophages for at least 24 h and the two-component system EnvZ/OmpR may be involved in intracellular survival. To reveal the role and mechanism of the two-component system EnvZ/OmpR in intracellular survival of A. hydrophila, the genes of envZ/ompR were silenced by shRNAi. The results showed that the survival rates of the envZ-RNAi and ompR-RNAi strains were only 2.05% and 3.75%, respectively, which were decreased by 91% and 83.6% compared with that of the wild-type strain. The escape ability of envZ-RNAi and ompR-RNAi was also decreased by 51.4% and 19.7%, respectively. The comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that the functional genes directly related to bacterial intracellular survival mainly included the genes related to anti-stress capacity, and the genes related to Zn²⁺ and Mg²⁺ transport. Further research confirmed that two-component system EnvZ/OmpR can regulate the expression of the important molecular chaperones, such as groEL, htpG, dnaK, clpB and grpE. The expression of these molecular chaperones in wild-type strain was up-regulated with the increase in H₂ O₂ concentrations, while the expression of these molecular chaperones in silent strains did not change significantly. Cells that phagocytosed wild-type strain had higher ROS content than cells that phagocytosed silent strains. Two-component system EnvZ/OmpR could also regulate zinc transporter (znuA, znuB, znuC) and zinc efflux protein (zntA) to maintain zinc homeostasis in cells, thus affecting the ability of bacteria to survive in phagocytes. Moreover, two-component system EnvZ/OmpR could affect the growth and intracellular survival of A. hydrophila by regulating the expression of MgtA, MgtC and MgtE and participating in bacterial Mg²⁺ homeostasis in fish macrophages.

Folic acid conjugated chitosan encapsulated palladium nanoclusters for NIR triggered photothermal breast cancer treatment

This study developed folic acid (FA) conjugated chitosan (CS) encapsulated rutin (R) synthesized palladium nanoclusters (Pd NCs) for NIR triggered and folate receptor (FR) targeted triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB 231 cells) treatment. R-Pd NCs exhibited flower-shaped particles with an average size of <100 nm. FA-CS encapsulation concealed the flower shape of R-Pd NCs with a positive charge. The XRD spectrum confirmed the cubic crystalline structure of Pd. The FA conjugation on CS improved the cellular uptake of R-Pd NCs in MDA-MB 231 cells was confirmed by TEM. FA-CS-R-Pd NCs (+NIR) treatment was considerably inhibited the MDA-MB 231 cells proliferation evidenced by cell viability, fluorescent staining, and flow cytometry analysis. Further, in vitro hemolysis assay and in Ovo model confirmed the non-toxic nature of FA-CS-R-Pd-NCs with or without NIR radiation. Hence, this study concluded that FA-CS-R-Pd NCs can be applied for the treatment of drug-resistant breast cancer.

Interplay of redox imbalance with matrix gelatinases in neutrophils and their association with disease severity in rheumatoid arthritis patients

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) etiopathogenesis still remains complex, but involvement of several immune cells is evident. Present study focusses on evaluation of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) in RA patients and healthy controls. From generation of oxidative species, release of inflammatory cytokines and matrix-degrading proteases, PMNs possess the ability to mediate immunological responses. Intracellular and mitochondrial ROS in PMNs and other oxidative parameters including catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation were measured in PMNs and serum samples. Gene regulation studies involved in oxidative (Keap1 and Nrf2) and degradative pathways (MMP2 and MMP9) were done using DNA methylation analysis. Intracellular expression levels of Keap1, Nrf2, Dnmt1, MMP2, and MMP9 were analyzed using flowcytometry in patients and controls. Moreover, serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were also measured. Comparative measurements amongst patients and controls were statistically analyzed, and correlations were made with disease severity scores (DAS28 ESR).

Inhibition of Ultraviolet-B Radiation Induced Photodamage by Trigonelline Through Modulation of Mitogen Activating Protein Kinases and Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling Axis in Skin

Cutaneous photodamage is incited via exposure of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation to skin, characterized by the manifestation of oxidative stress, inflammation, collagen degradation and apoptosis which translates to external aging signs such as wrinkle formation and leathery skin appearance. Meanwhile, it increases cellular susceptibility to photocarcinogenesis. Several studies have accumulated evidence regarding the usage of natural agents in reversing the clinical signs of photoaging as well as preventing photo-toxicity at molecular level. In this study, we have explored the therapeutic potential of natural agent Trigonelline (TG) against UV-B radiation mediated skin photodamage. Various parameters modulated by the exposure of UV-B radiation were investigated in human skin cells and chronic photodamage mice model (Balb/c). We found that TG alleviates UV-B radiation induced photodamage in human skin cells and Balb/c skin mice. TG treatment in UV-B irradiated skin cells abates UV-B radiation mediated phototoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. At molecular level, we observed TG treatment significantly prevents the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lipid peroxidation, restores collagen synthesis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) levels. The in vitro findings were replicated in the in vivo model. We found that the TG acts potentially via modulation of ROS-MAPKs-NF-κB axis. Collectively, we propose that TG acts antagonistically against UV-B mediated skin damage and has strong potential to be developed as a therapeutic and cosmetical agent against photodamage disorders.

In Vitro Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Effects of Different Extracts of Catharanthus roseus and Its Indole Alkaloid, Vindoline

The Catharanthus roseus plant has been used traditionally to treat diabetes mellitus. Scientific evidence supporting the antidiabetic effects of this plant's active ingredient-vindoline has not been fully evaluated. In this study, extracts of C. roseus and vindoline were tested for antioxidant activities, alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory activities and insulin secretory effects in pancreatic RIN-5F cell line cultured in the absence of glucose, at low and high glucose concentrations. The methanolic extract of the plant showed the highest antioxidant activities in addition to the high total polyphenolic content (p < 0.05). The HPLC results exhibited increased concentration of vindoline in the dichloromethane and the ethylacetate extracts. Vindoline showed noticeable antioxidant activity when compared to ascorbic acid at p < 0.05 and significantly improved the in vitro insulin secretion. The intracellular reactive oxygen species formation in glucotoxicity-induced cells was significantly reduced following treatment with vindoline, methanolic and the dichloromethane extracts when compared to the high glucose untreated control (p < 0.05). Plant extracts and vindoline showed weaker inhibitory effects on the activities of carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes when compared to acarbose, which inhibited the activities of the enzymes by 80%. The plant extracts also exhibited weak alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory effects.

Environmental cue affects the hearing-related behaviors of Drosophila melanogaster by targeting the redox pathways

Environmental cues like noise, pressure, and circadian rhythm can affect the hearing ability of human beings. Nevertheless, the complex physiology of the human being does not allow us to understand how these factors can affect hearing and hearing-related behaviors. Conversely, these effects can be easily checked using the hearing organ of Drosophila melanogaster, the Johnston organ. In the current study, the Drosophila was exposed to challenging environments like noise, low pressure, and altered circadian rhythm. The hearing organ of larvae, as well as adults, was analyzed for hearing-related defects. In the third instar larva, the cell deaths were detected in the antenna imaginal disc, the precursor of Johnston's organ. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant enzymes were also detected in the adult antennae of environmentally challenged flies. The ultrastructure of the antennae suggests the presence of abundant mitochondria in the scolopidia of control. Fewer amounts of mitochondria are found in the environmentally challenged adult antennae. In adults, various hearing-related behaviors were analyzed as a readout of functionality of the hearing organ. Analysis of climbing, aggressive, and courtship behaviors suggests abnormal behavior in environmentally challenged flies than the control. The current study suggests that the environmental cues can alter hearing-related behaviors in Drosophila. The methods used in this study can be used to monitor the environmental pollution or to study the effect of alteration of noise, pressure, and circadian rhythm on hearing-related behaviors taking Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Graphical abstract.

Molecular characterization and immunogenic function of ML1899 (LipG) of Mycobacterium leprae

Introduction. ML1899 is conserved in all mycobacterium sp. and is a middle member of mle-ML1898 operon involved in mycolic acid modification.Aim. In the present study attempts were made to characterize ML1899 in detail.Methodology. Bioinformatics tools were used for prediction of active-site residues, antigenic epitopes and a three-dimensional model of protein. The gene was cloned, expressed and purified as His-tagged protein in Escherichia coli for biophysical/biochemical characterization. Recombinant protein was used to treat THP-1 cells to study change in production of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytokines and chemokines using flowcytometry/ELISA.Results. In silico analysis predicted ML1899 as a member of α/β hydrolase family with GXSXG-motif and Ser126, His282, Asp254 as active-site residues that were confirmed by site-directed mutagensis. ML1899 exhibited esterase activity. It hydrolysed pNP-butyrate as optimum substrate at pH 8.0 and 50 °C with 5.56 µM^-1 min^-1 catalytic efficiency. The enzyme exhibited stability up to 60 °C temperature and between pH 6.0 to 9.0. K _m, V _max and specific activity of ML1899 were calculated to be 400 µM, 40 µmoles min^-1 ml^-1 and 27 U mg^{- 1}, respectively. ML1899 also exhibited phospholipase activity. The protein affected the survival of macrophages when treated at higher concentration. ML1899 enhanced ROS/NO production and up-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokine including TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-8 in macrophages. ML1899 was also observed to elicit humoral response in 69 % of leprosy patients.Conclusion. These results suggested that ML1899, an esterase could up-regulate the immune responses in favour of macrophages at a low concentration but kills the THP-1 macrophages cells at a higher concentration.

Possible activation of NRF2 by Vitamin E/Curcumin against altered thyroid hormone induced oxidative stress via NFĸB/AKT/mTOR/KEAP1 signalling in rat heart

Oxidative stress is implicated in both hypo- and hyper-thyroid conditions. In the present study an attempt has been made to elucidate possible interaction between vitamin E or/and curcumin (two established antioxidants) with active portion (redox signaling intervening region) of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) as a mechanism to alleviate oxidative stress in rat heart under altered thyroid states. Fifty Wistar strain rats were divided into two clusters (Cluster A: hypothyroidism; Cluster B: hyperthyroidism). The hypo- (0.05% (w/v) propylthiouracil in drinking water) and hyper- (0.0012% (w/v) T4 in drinking water) thyroid rats in both clusters were supplemented orally with antioxidants (vitamin E or/and curcumin) for 30 days. Interactive least count difference and principal component analyses indicated increase in lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione level, alteration in the activities and protein expression of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase under altered thyroid states. However, the expression of stress survival molecules; nuclear factor κB (NFκB) and the serine-threonine kinase B (Akt), in hyper-thyroidism only points towards different mechanisms responsible for either condition. Co-administration of vitamin E and curcumin showed better result in attenuating expression of mammalian target for rapamycin (mTOR), restoration of total protein content and biological activity of Ca²⁺ ATPase in hyperthyroid rats, whereas, their individual treatment showed partial restoration. Since NRF2 is responsible for activation of antioxidant response element and subsequent expression of antioxidant enzymes, possible interactions of both vitamin E or/and curcumin with the antioxidant enzymes, NRF2 and its regulator Kelch ECH associating protein (KEAP1) were studied in silico. For the first time, a modeled active portion of the zipped protein NRF2 indicated its interaction with both vitamin E and curcumin. Further, curcumin and vitamin E complex showed in silico interaction with KEAP1. Reduction of oxidative stress by curcumin and/or vitamin E may be due to modulation of NRF2 and KEAP1 function in rat heart under altered thyroid states.

N-acetyltransferase co-expression increases α-glucosidase expression level in Pichia pastoris

Pichia pastoris is subjected to strong oxidative stress in the methanol induction phase. The oxidative stress inflicts severe injury to yeast cells, which causes cell death and reduces protein expression ability. N-acetyltransferase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae can protect yeast cells from damage caused by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oxidative pressure environments such as ethanol treatment, freeze-thawing, or heat shock. In this study, N-acetyltransferase from P. pastoris (PpMpr1) was overexpressed for the first time to improve the anti-oxidative stress ability to protect cells from strong ROS damage during the methanol induction phase. Cell viability of the PpMpr1 overexpression strain increased significantly, while biomass was increased by 22.7% at high dissolved oxygen (DO). At the same time, the heterologous α-glucosidase (AGL) expression level at 25% DO was increased by 21.5%. The AGL degradation was greatly relieved in the fermentation supernatant of the PpMpr1 overexpression strain. This study shows that PpMpr1 has a great potential for improvement of anti-oxidative stress ability in P. pastoris and provides a promising recombinant microorganism for industrial production of proteins.

Alterations of Global DNA Methylation and DNA Methyltransferase Expression in T and B Lymphocytes from Patients with Newly Diagnosed Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases After Treatment: A Follow-Up Study

BACKGROUND

Dysregulated DNA methylation in lymphocytes has been linked to autoimmune disorders. The aims of this study were to identify global DNA methylation patterns in patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases and to observe methylation changes after treatment for these conditions.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted, including the following patients: 51 with newly diagnosed Graves' disease (GD), 28 with autoimmune hypothyroidism (AIT), 29 with positive thyroid autoantibodies, and 39 matched healthy volunteers. Forty GD patients treated with radioiodine or antithyroid drugs and 28 AIT patients treated with L-thyroxine were followed for three months. Serum free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, thyrotropin, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies, and thyrotropin receptor antibodies were assayed using electrochemiluminescent immunoassays. CD3⁺ T and CD19⁺ B cells were separated by flow cytometry for total DNA and RNA extraction. Global DNA methylation levels were determined by absorptiometry using a methylation quantification kit. DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) expression levels were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Hypomethylation and down-regulated DNMT1 expression in T and B lymphocytes were observed in the newly diagnosed GD patients. Neither the AIT patients nor the positive thyroid autoantibodies patients exhibited differences in their global DNA methylation status or DNMT mRNA levels compared with healthy controls. Antithyroid drugs restored global methylation and DNMT1 expression in both T and B lymphocytes, whereas radioiodine therapy affected only T cells. L-thyroxine replacement did not alter the methylation or DNMT expression levels in lymphocytes. The global methylation levels of B cells were negatively correlated with the serum thyroid peroxidase antibodies in patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperthyroid patients with newly diagnosed GD had global hypomethylation and lower DNMT1 expression in T and B lymphocytes. The results provide the first demonstration that antithyroid drugs or radioiodine treatment restore global DNA methylation and DNMT1 expression with concurrent relief of hyperthyroidism.

Analyses of antioxidant status and nucleotide alterations in genes encoding antioxidant enzymes in patients with benign and malignant thyroid disorders

Background

Synthesis of thyroid hormones and regulation of their metabolism involve free radicals that may affect redox balance in the body. Thyroid disorders causing variations in the levels of thyroid hormones may alter cellular oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to measure the antioxidant activities and biomarkers of oxidative stress in serum and red blood cells (RBC) of patients with benign and malignant thyroid disorders and to investigate if changes in the antioxidant activities in these patients were linked to alterations in genes encoding the antioxidant enzymes.

Methods

Forty-one patients with thyroid disorders from University of Malaya Medical Centre were recruited. They were categorised into four groups: multinodular goitre (MNG) (n = 18), follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) (n = 7), papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) (n = 10), and follicular thyroid cancer (FTC) (n = 6). Serum and RBC of patients were analysed for antioxidant activities, antioxidant enzymes, and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Alterations in genes encoding the antioxidant enzymes were analysed using whole exome sequencing and PCR–DNA sequencing.

Results

Patients with thyroid disorders had significantly higher serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities compared to control, but had lower activities in RBC. There were no significant changes in serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. Meanwhile, GPx activity in RBC was reduced in PTC and FTC, compared to control and the respective benign groups. Antioxidant activities in serum were decreased in the thyroid disorder groups when compared to the control group. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were elevated in the serum of FTA group when compared to controls, while in the RBC, only the MNG and PTC groups showed higher MDA equivalents than control. Serum reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in PTC group of both serum and RBC were significantly higher than control group. Whole exome sequencing has resulted in identification of 49 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MNG and PTC patients and their genotypic and allelic frequencies were calculated. Analyses of the relationship between serum enzyme activities and the total SNPs identified in both groups revealed no correlation.

Discussion

Different forms of thyroid disorders influence the levels of antioxidant status in the serum and RBC of these patients, implying varying capability of preventing oxidative stress. A more comprehensive study with a larger target population should be done in order to further evaluate the relationships between antioxidant enzymes gene polymorphisms and thyroid disorders, as well as strengthening the minor evidences provided in literatures.

Biological effects of ticagrelor over clopidogrel in patients with stable coronary artery disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Patients with SCAD and concomitant COPD are at high risk of cardiovascular adverse events, due to chronic inflammation, responsible of endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and heightened platelet reactivity (PR). The objective of this randomised clinical trial was to test if ticagrelor is superior to clopidogrel in improving endothelial function in patients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) and concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Forty-six patients with SCAD and COPD undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were randomly assigned to receive clopidogrel (n=23) or ticagrelor (n=23) on top of standard therapy with aspirin. The following parameters were assessed at baseline and after 1 month: i) rate of apoptosis and ii) nitric oxide (NO) levels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), iii) levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in peripheral blood mononuclear cell, iv) 29 cytokines/chemokines, v) on-treatment PR. The primary endpoint of the study was the 1-month rate of HUVECs apoptosis. The rate of apoptosis after 1 month was significantly lower in patients treated with ticagrelor (7.4 ± 1.3% vs 9.3 ± 1.5%, p<0.001), satisfying the pre-specified primary endpoint. In the ticagrelor arm, levels of NO were higher (10.1 ± 2.2 AU vs 8.5 ± 2.6 AU, p=0.03) while those of ROS (4 ± 1.8 AU vs 5.7 ± 2.8 AU, p=0.02) and P2Y ₁₂ reactivity units (52 ± 70 PRU vs 155 ± 62 PRU, p<0.001) were lower. There were no differences in cytokines/chemokines levels and aspirin reactivity units between groups. In patients with SCAD and COPD undergoing PCI, ticagrelor, as compared to clopidogrel is superior in improving surrogate markers of endothelial function and on-treatment PR (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02519608).

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.

Humans from Wuchereria bancrofti endemic area elicit substantial immune response to proteins of the filarial parasite Brugia malayi and its endosymbiont Wolbachia

BACKGROUND

In the past, immune responses to several Brugia malayi immunodominant antigens have been characterized in filaria-infected populations; however, little is known regarding Wolbachia proteins. We earlier cloned and characterized few B. malayi (trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase, Bm-TPP and heavy chain myosin, BmAF-Myo) and Wolbachia (translation initiation factor-1, Wol Tl IF-1 and NAD⁺-dependent DNA ligase, wBm-LigA) proteins and investigated the immune responses, which they triggered in animal models. The current study emphasizes on immunological characteristics of these proteins in three major categories of filarial endemic zones: endemic normal (EN, asymptomatic, amicrofilaraemic; putatively immune), microfilariae carriers (MF, asymptomatic but microfilaraemic), and chronic filarial patients (CP, symptomatic and mostly amicrofilaraemic).

METHODS

Immunoblotting and ELISA were carried out to measure IgG and isotype antibodies against these recombinant proteins in various clinical categories. Involvement of serum antibodies in infective larvae killing was assessed by antibody-dependent cellular adhesion and cytotoxicity assay. Cellular immune response was investigated by in vitro proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in these cells after stimulation.

RESULTS

Immune responses of EN and CP displayed almost similar level of IgG to Wol Tl IF-1 while other three proteins had higher serum IgG in EN individuals only. Specific IgA, IgG1, IgG3 and IgM to Bm-TPP were high in EN subjects, while BmAF-Myo additionally showed elevated IgG2. Enhanced IgA and IgG3 were detected in both EN and CP individuals in response to Wol Tl IF-1 antigen, but IgG1 and IgM were high only in EN individuals. wBm-LigA and BmAF-Myo exhibited almost similar pattern of antibody responses. PBMC isolated from EN subjects exhibited higher proliferation and ROS generation when stimulated with all three proteins except for Wol Tl IF-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these findings display high immunogenicity of all four proteins in human subjects and revealed that the EN population was exposed to both B. malayi and Wolbachia proteins simultaneously. In addition, immune responses to Wol Tl IF-1 suggest possible role of this factor in Wolbachia-induced pathological responses while immune responses to other three proteins suggest that these can be explored further as vaccine candidates.

Bergenin attenuates renal injury by reversing mitochondrial dysfunction in ethylene glycol induced hyperoxaluric rat model

Bergenin, isolated from Bergenia ligulata is a potent antioxidant and antilithiatic agent. Present work was designed to establish the biochemical role of bergenin on mitochondrial dysfunction in the ethylene glycol induced hyperoxaluric rat model. Bergenin was administrated at a dose of 10mg/kg body wt i.p. from 14th day of establishing the 28 days hyperoxaluria rat model. α-Tocopherol was given as positive control at a dose of 100mg/kg body wt i.p. Mitochondrial dysfunction was studied by evaluating the activities of respiratory chain complexes, mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species. Histopathological analysis of the kidney tissue was done after Pizzolato staining. Also, expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein -1(MCP-1) and kidney injury marker protein (KIM-1) were studied and the levels of IL-1β were evaluated in kidney tissue homogenate. Mitochondrial dysfunction during stone crystallization was evident by decreased activities of electron transport chain complexes I, II and IV and augmented mitochondrial oxidative stress in hyperoxaluric rats. Bergenin treatment significantly (P<0.05) restored the activities of these complexes. Moreover, it curtailed the lipid peroxidation and up regulated antioxidant levels, ameliorating the state of mitochondrial dysfunction. The protective role of bergenin was also reinforced by reducing IL-1β production and expression of KIM-1 and MCP-1 in the renal tissue. The findings of the present study provide evidence that bergenin exerted protective effects in hyperoxaluria through mitochondrial protection that involves attenuation of oxidative stress. Hence, it presented itself as an effective remedy in combating urolithiasis.

A steroid like phytochemical Antcin M is an anti-aging reagent that eliminates hyperglycemia-accelerated premature senescence in dermal fibroblasts by direct activation of Nrf2 and SIRT-1

The present study revealed the anti-aging properties of antcin M (ANM) and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying the effects. We found that exposure of human normal dermal fibroblasts (HNDFs) to high-glucose (HG, 30 mM) for 3 days, accelerated G0/G1 phase arrest and senescence. Indeed, co-treatment with ANM (10 µM) significantly attenuated HG-induced growth arrest and promoted cell proliferation. Further molecular analysis revealed that ANM blocked the HG-induced reduction in G1-S transition regulatory proteins such as cyclin D, cyclin E, CDK4, CDK6, CDK2 and protein retinoblastoma (pRb). In addition, treatment with ANM eliminated HG-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the induction of anti-oxidant genes, HO-1 and NQO-1 via transcriptional activation of Nrf2. Moreover, treatment with ANM abolished HG-induced SIPS as evidenced by reduced senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity. This effect was further confirmed by reduction in senescence-associated marker proteins including, p21CIP1, p16INK4A, and p53/FoxO1 acetylation. Also, the HG-induced decline in aging-related marker protein SMP30 was rescued by ANM. Furthermore, treatment with ANM increased SIRT-1 expression, and prevented SIRT-1 depletion. This protection was consistent with inhibition of SIRT-1 phosphorylation at Ser47 followed by blocking its upstream kinases, p38 MAPK and JNK/SAPK. Further analysis revealed that ANM partially protected HG-induced senescence in SIRT-1 silenced cells. A similar effect was also observed in Nrf2 silenced cells. However, a complete loss of protection was observed in both Nrf2 and SIRT-1 knockdown cells suggesting that both induction of Nrf2-mediated anti-oxidant defense and SIRT-1-mediated deacetylation activity contribute to the anti-aging properties of ANM in vitro. Result of in vivo studies shows that ANM-treated C. elegens exhibits an increased survival rate during HG-induced oxidative stress insult. Furthermore, ANM significantly extended the life span of C. elegans. Taken together, our results suggest the potential application of ANM in age-related diseases or as a preventive reagent against aging process.

Protective role of Aloe vera against X-ray induced testicular dysfunction

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the possible radioprotective potential of an Aloe vera extract against whole-body X-ray irradiation-induced testicular alterations in mice. Male balb/c mice were divided into four groups: control, A. vera, X-ray and A. vera pre-treated + X-ray irradiated. Histopathological examination revealed significant structural alterations in testes after X-ray exposure, which was also associated with the presence of apoptotic cells as assessed by TUNEL assay. X-ray irradiation resulted in elevation in the levels of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, a reduction in glutathione concentration and enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase. Sperm count/motility and testosterone levels were significantly decreased in the irradiated group. Irradiated animals pre-treated with A. vera extract revealed an improvement in antioxidant status, inhibition of lipid peroxides, apoptotic cell formation and enhanced testicular parameters when compared to the X-ray-exposed group. These findings suggest that A. vera extract could ameliorate X-ray-induced damage due to its free radical scavenging properties and its potential to boost cellular antioxidant defence machinery.

A Potent Inhibitor of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K) and Mitogen Activated Protein (MAP) Kinase Signalling, Quercetin (3, 3', 4', 5, 7-Pentahydroxyflavone) Promotes Cell Death in Ultraviolet (UV)-B-Irradiated B16F10 Melanoma Cells

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation–induced skin damage contributes strongly to the formation of melanoma, a highly lethal form of skin cancer. Quercetin (Qu), the most widely consumed dietary bioflavonoid and well known inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase signalling, has been reported to be chemopreventive in several forms of non-melanoma skin cancers. Here, we report that the treatment of ultraviolet (UV)-B-irradiated B16F10 melanoma cells with quercetin resulted in a dose dependent reduction in cell viability and increased apoptosis. The present study has brought out that the pro-apoptotic effects of quercetin in UVB-irradiated B16F10 cells are mediated through the elevation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, calcium homeostasis imbalance, modulation of anti-oxidant defence response and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_M). Promotion of UVB-induced cell death by quercetin was further revealed by cleavage of chromosomal DNA, caspase activation, poly (ADP) ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage, and an increase in sub-G1 cells. Quercetin markedly attenuated MEK-ERK signalling, influenced PI3K/Akt pathway, and potentially enhanced the UVB-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation. Furthermore, combined UVB and quercetin treatment decreased the ratio of Bcl-2 to that of Bax, and upregulated the expression of Bim and apoptosis inducing factor (AIF). Overall, these results suggest the possibility of using quercetin in combination with UVB as a possible treatment option for melanoma in future.

Role of cytolytic impairment of natural killer and natural killer T-cell populations in rheumatoid arthritis

Innate immunity has been widely accepted as one of the major cause for the alteration of immune system and progression of autoimmune diseases. Natural killer (NK) cells and natural killer T (NKT) cells have not been explored in clinical studies for their cytolytic components in association with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The literature available for these potential candidates is controversial in terms of their protective or pathogenic role in disease severity of RA. Present study explained the role of NK and NKT cell populations and intracellular expression of caspases, perforin, granzymes A and B in the pathogenesis of RA in patients. DAS28 score was measured as the disease severity. Immunochemical parameters were studied by using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against different cell types in flow cytometry. Results indicated that that whatsoever is the change in percentage cell populations, ratio of NK and NKT cell populations always remained poised even in the disease state. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were elevated with increased intracellular active caspase-3, perforin and granzyme expression in RA patients. Their elevated expressions were positively correlated with DAS28 suggesting the pathogenic role in RA. The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines were enhanced while the anti-inflammatory cytokine expressions were diminished in the patients. Present study may point towards futuristic therapeutic targets which can fascinate the pharmaceutical industries to selectively target these molecules in designing the therapeutic strategy of RA patients.

Bi(o)communications among peripheral blood fractions: a focus on NK and NKT cell biology in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with unknown pathophysiology involving many interwoven signalling cascades. ROS, NK and NKT cells might be crucial in the disease severity of RA of which the role of NK and NKT cells are controversial in literature. However, the role of oxidative stress, its impact on NK and NKT cell immunobiology and disease activity (DAS28) is largely unknown. Therefore, we studied the role of oxidative stress and NK cell subsets in the pathogenesis of RA. The state of oxidative stress in various peripheral blood fractions, percentage NK and NKT cell expression, their altered apoptotic signaling pathways involving mitochondrial membrane potential, FAS associated death domain (FADD) mediated pathways and DNA damage were analyzed. Results indicated a state of profound oxidative stress in the peripheral blood of RA patients where percentage of NK and NKT cell subsets diminished while ROS levels increased. The depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential, FAS, FASL and active caspase-3 positive NK and NKT cell subsets were considerably elevated in patients. The DNA damage, assessed as percentage of DNA in comet tail, was significantly elevated. Findings of the present work indicate increased apoptosis of peripheral NK and NKT cells in the diseased condition. PBMC and RBC are the major sites of enhanced oxidative stress. The state of oxidative stress and altered immunobiology of NK and NKT cells strongly correlated with Disease activity score. The present study strongly supports the protective role of NK cell subsets in the pathogenesis of RA.

Prophylactic effect of Withania somnifera on inflammation in a non-autoimmune prone murine model of lupus

The immunosuppressive properties of an aqueous suspension of Withania somnifera (WS) root powder were investigated in a pristine induced female Balb/c model of a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) like disease. The course of disease is initiated by peritoneal inflammation caused by pristane which results in development of SLE like symptoms, i.e. autoantibody production, proteinuria, and nephritis within a period of five to six months. The model of SLE was established by injecting 0.5 mL of pristane intraperitoneally into female Balb/c mice (12-18 weeks old). WS root powder (500 mg and 1,000 mg per kg body weight) was administered orally from one month prior to disease induction and for the following 6 months. Parameters of inflammation like nitric oxide (NO), Interleukin 6 and tumour necrosis factor-α and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum and/or ascitic fluid were measured. Prophylactic administration of WS root powder (500 mg and 1,000 mg per kg body weight) potently inhibits the proinflammatory cytokines, NO, and ROS in the ascetic fluid as well as in serum. Therefore, our results indicate a preventive effect of WS root powder on the mouse model of lupus.

Oxidative stress due to radiation in CD34(+) hematopoietic progenitor cells: protection by IGF-1

Radiation exerts direct as well as indirect effects on DNA through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Irradiated hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) experience DNA strand breaks, favoring genetic instability, due to ROS generation. Our aim was to study the effect of a range of radiation doses in HPCs and the possible protective mechanisms activated by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). ROS generation was evaluated, in the presence or absence of IGF-1 in liquid cultures of human HPCs-CD34(+) irradiated with 1-, 2- and 5-Gy X-rays, using a flow cytometry assay. Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) expression was studied by western blot analysis and visualized by an immunofluorescence assay. Apoptosis was estimated using the following assays: Annexin-V assay, DNA degradation assay, BCL-2/BAX mRNA and protein levels and caspase-9 protein immunofluorescence visualization. Viability and clonogenic potential were studied in irradiated HPCs. The generation of superoxide anion radicals at an early and a late time point was increased, while the hydrogen peroxide generation at a late time point was stable. IGF-1 presence further enhanced the radiation-induced increase of MnSOD at 24 h post irradiation. IGF-1 inhibited the mitochondria-mediated pathway of apoptosis by regulating the m-RNA and protein expression of BAX, BCL-2 and the BCL-2/BAX ratio and by decreasing caspase-9 protein expression. IGF-1 presence in culture media of irradiated cells restored the clonogenic capacity and the viability of HPCs as well. In conclusion, IGF-1 protects HPCs-CD34(+) from radiation effects, by eliminating the oxidative microenvironment through the enhancement of MnSOD activation and by regulating the mitochondria-mediated pathway of apoptosis.

Altered redox state and apoptosis in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus

An altered redox status and increased lymphocyte apoptosis have been implicated in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we evaluated the relationship between glutathione (GSH) depletion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, the progression of apoptosis and their association with SLE severity. Significant low levels of intracellular glutathione, total thiol and altered redox state (GSH/GSSG) were found in SLE patients, in which lymphocyte apoptosis and activated caspase-3 expression in the lymphocytes were remarkably increased. The severity of disease was positively allied with the increased levels of lymphocyte apoptosis and caspase-3, but negatively with the decreased levels of total thiol, depleted intracellular glutathione and altered redox state (GSH/GSSG). The lymphocyte apoptosis and activated caspase-3 expression were negatively associated with intracellular levels of GSH and redox state and positively associated with the elevated levels of multiple oxidative stress markers; ROS and lipid peroxidation measured as malondialdehyde (MDA). These results suggest that GSH depletion and elevated oxidative stress trigger apoptosis and may be coupled with the severity of the disease.

Hypothyroidism modulates renal antioxidant gene expression during postnatal development and maturation in rat

In the present study effects of 6-n-propyl thiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothyroidism on renal antioxidant defence system during postnatal development (from birth to 7, 15 and 30days old) and on adult rats were reported. Hypothyroidism in rats was induced by feeding the lactating mothers (from the day of parturition till weaning, 25days old) or directly to the pups with 0.05% PTU in drinking water. The activities of Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were increased in 30days old hypothyroid rats with respect to their respective controls, on the other hand, levels of translated products and activities of Mn-superoxide dismutase (SOD2) and catalase (CAT) were decreased in hypothyroid rats of all age groups as compared to their respective control rats. SOD1 activity remained unchanged in persistent (PTU-treatment from birth to 90days old) hypothyroid rats as compared to euthyroid. However, a decreased activity of SOD1 was recorded in transient (PTU-treatment from birth to 30days then withdrawal till 90days old) hypothyroid rats with respect to control rats. The mRNA level, protein expression and activity of SOD2 and CAT were significantly decreased in persistent hypothyroid rats as compared to euthyroid rats. The activity of GPx was significantly increased in both persistent and transient hypothyroid rats with respect to euthyroid rats. The present study indicates modulation of antioxidant defence status of rat kidney during postnatal development and maturation by hypothyroidism.

Curcumin and vitamin E modulate hepatic antioxidant gene expression in PTU-induced hypothyroid rats

In the present study, regulatory role of vitamin E and curcumin on antioxidant gene (AOG) expression in hypothyroid rat liver is reported. Adult male rats were rendered hypothyroid by administration of 0.05 % 6-propyl-thiouracil in their drinking water, while vitamin E (200 mg/kg body weight) and curcumin (30 mg/kg body weight) were supplemented orally for 30 days. Expression of antioxidant genes (Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase; SOD1, Mn superoxide dismutase; SOD2, catalase; CAT, glutathione peroxidase; GPx1 and glutathione reductase; GR) was evaluated using RT-PCR and Western blot analyses. The activities of antioxidant enzymes were measured in mitochondrial fraction (MF) and post-mitochondrial fraction (PMF) of rat liver. In addition measurement of glutathione redox status was also carried out in both the fractions. The enhanced transcripts of CAT, GPx1 and GR in hypothyroid rat liver were alleviated by administration of vitamin E and curcumin. Elevated levels of translated product of all AOGs in hypothyroid group were remained unchanged after antioxidant administration. However, enhanced SOD1, GPx1 and decreased GR activities in PMF were normalized by vitamin E and curcumin. Similarly the increased SOD2, GPx1 and decreased CAT activities in MF were also normalized by vitamin E and curcumin supplementation. Administration of vitamin E and curcumin enhanced mitochondrial GSH level; whereas the enhanced GSH level in PMF of hypothyroid rats was alleviated by vitamin E. Thus it can be concluded that besides the antioxidant role of vitamin E and curcumin, they also regulate hepatic antioxidant gene expression in hypothyroid rats.

Role of reactive intermediates in the immunopathogenesis of the pristane-induced Balb/c model of lupus

Pristane-induced lupus in Balb/c mice represents an environmentally induced lupus model which is widely used for unravelling the mystery of the pathogenesis of the disease. An intraperitoneal innate immune reaction to pristane is primarily accountable for the development of the systemic lupus erythematosus-like disease in the model. In this study, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were assessed (as a measure of chronic inflammation) in the peritoneum of the Balb/c model of SLE-like disease 6 months after a single intraperitoneal injection of pristane. Levels of ROS in peritoneal macrophages were significantly enhanced (mean fluorescence value  ±  SD: 648  ±  100.9) in pristane-treated mice (PT) as compared with control mice (mean fluorescence value  ±  SD: 79  ±  7.8) treated with phosphate buffer saline (PBST). An immunofluorescence study reveal the localization of ROS within nuclei, suggesting oxidative damage. Similarly, levels of NO were also markedly raised in PT mice (34.71 µmol/l  ±  8.48) as compared with PBST mice (1.36 nmol/l  ±  0.14). These new findings lead to speculation about the role of reactive intermediates in the development of disease. This study proposes that the sustained production of reactive intermediates during chronic intraperitoneal inflammation might reduce antioxidant defences and lead to a condition of oxidative stress, which might further be responsible for this autoimmune condition.

Therapeutic effect of Withania somnifera on pristane-induced model of SLE

Systemic lupus erythematosus commonly known as lupus is an intricate disorder with multiple organ involvement characterized primarily by inflammation caused due to deposition of immune-complexes formed by production of autoantibodies against nuclear, nucleolar as well as cytoplasmic self-antigens. Lack of availability of suitable treatments or treatments that are only symptomatic calls for investigation of possible modalities. Withania somnifera with its immunomodulatory properties is prescribed for arthritis in ayurveda. In the present study, the therapeutic effect of Withania somnifera pure root powder (at 1,000 and 500 mg/kg body weight) on pristane-induced Balb/c model of lupus was investigated to elucidate its remedial outcome on SLE. SLE-like symptoms are produced in the model of lupus: production of autoantibodies, proteinuria, nephritis as well as immune-complex deposition along with various other inflammatory markers such as formation of lipogranuloma, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species. Withania somnifera was found to have potent inhibitory effect on proteinuria, nephritis and other inflammatory markers. Humoral response, however, was found to be impervious. The potent reduction in inflammation in the present model of lupus suggests further investigation of this herb for its possible therapeutic use in SLE.

Green tea protects human osteoblasts from cigarette smoke-induced injury: possible clinical implication

PURPOSE

Recent reports discuss the altered bone homeostasis in cigarette smokers, being a risk factor for osteoporosis and negatively influencing fracture healing. Cigarette smoke is known to induce oxidative stress in the body via an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These increases in ROS are thought to damage the bone-forming osteoblasts. Naturally occurring polyphenols contained in green tea extract (GTE), e.g., catechins, are known to have anti-oxidative properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether GTE and especially catechins protect primary human osteoblasts from cigarette smoke-induced damage and to identify the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Primary human osteoblasts were isolated from patients' femur heads. Cigarette smoke medium (CSM) was obtained using a gas-washing bottle and standardized by its optical density (OD(320)) at λ = 320 nm. ROS formation was measured using 2'7'dichlorofluorescein diacetate, and osteoblasts' viability was detected by resazurin conversion.

RESULTS

Co-, pre-, and post-incubation with GTE and catechins significantly reduced ROS formation and thus improved the viability of CSM-treated osteoblasts. Besides GTE's direct radical scavenging properties, pre-incubation with both GTE and catechins protected osteoblasts from CSM-induced damage. Inhibition of the anti-oxidative enzyme HO-1 significantly reduced the protective effect of GTE and catechins emphasizing the key role of this enzyme in GTE anti-oxidative effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest possible beneficial effects on bone homeostasis, fracture healing, and bone mineral density following a GTE-rich diet or supplementation.

Association between T lymphocyte sub-sets apoptosis and peripheral blood mononuclear cells oxidative stress in systemic lupus erythematosus

Increased oxidative stress and lymphocyte apoptosis are a hallmark of the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the association between oxidative stress and T lymphocytes apoptosis has still to be elucidated in SLE. In order to appraise the interaction between oxidative stress and T lymphocyte apoptosis with the severity of disease, oxidative stress profile and T lymphocytes apoptosis were studied. Increased levels of ROS, MDA and CD4(+) lymphocyte apoptosis were positively associated with disease activity while decreased levels of GSH and percentage expression of CD4(+) lymphocyte were negatively associated with disease activity. The decrease in intracellular levels of GSH was negatively associated with T lymphocyte, CD4(+) lymphocyte, CD8(+) lymphocyte apoptosis and intracellular caspase-3 expression. The present study suggests that increased T lymphocyte sub-sets apoptosis may be mediated by decreased intracellular glutathione concentration and severity of disease might be enhanced together by over-production of ROS in SLE.

Flow cytometric analysis of the oxidative status in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells of workers exposed to welding fumes

Flow cytometry is a simple analytical technique that identifies, counts, and characterizes cells. The oxidative status of cells is influenced by many exogenous sources, such as occupational exposure to welding fumes. This study evaluated flow cytometry as a method to determine the oxidative status of male welders (n = 15) occupationally exposed to welding fumes. Flow cytometric analysis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was carried out in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by using the probe 2, 7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA). Lipid peroxidation was measured by the decrease of fluor-DHPE fluorescence and intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels by using mercury orange. All of the parameters were also observed under a confocal microscope. The oxidative stress ratio was calculated from the oxidative damage and the antioxidant capacity to give an accurate account of the cellular oxidative status. ROS and lipid peroxidation levels were elevated by approximately 87% and approximately 96%, respectively, and GSH levels lowered approximately 96% in PBMC of workers exposed to welding fumes compared with non-exposed controls. The oxidative stress ratio was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the exposed group. Flow cytometry can be useful for the measurement of cellular oxidative stress in somatic cells of workers exposed to welding fumes and other occupational settings. Calculating an oxidative stress index may be useful in predicting disease outcomes and whether preventative control measures are efficient.

Reactive oxygen species formation is not enhanced by exposure to UMTS 1950 MHz radiation and co-exposure to ferrous ions in Jurkat cells

This study was designed to assess if radiofrequency (RF) radiation induces oxidative stress in cultured mammalian cells when given alone or in combination with ferrous ions (FeSO(4)). For this purpose the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by flow cytometry in human lymphoblastoid cells exposed to 1950 MHz signal used by the third generation wireless technology of the Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS) at Specific Absorption Rate of 0.5 and 2.0 W/kg. Short (5-60 min) or long (24 h) duration exposures were carried out in a waveguide system under strictly controlled conditions of both dosimetry and environment. Cell viability was also measured after 24 h RF exposure using the Resazurin and Neutral Red assays. Several co-exposure protocols were applied to test if RF radiation is able to alter ROS formation induced by FeSO(4) (RF given before or concurrently to FeSO(4)). The results obtained indicate that non-thermal RF exposures do not increase spontaneous ROS formation in any of the experimental conditions investigated. Consistent with the lack of ROS production, no change in cell viability was observed in Jurkat cells exposed to RF radiation for 24 h. Similar results were obtained when co-exposures were considered: combined exposures to RF radiation and FeSO(4) did not increase ROS formation induced by the chemical treatment alone. In contrast, in cultures treated with FeSO(4) as positive control, a dose-dependent increase in ROS formation was recorded, validating the sensitivity of the method employed.

Phagocytosis and postphagocytic reaction of cord blood and adult blood monocyte after infection with green fluorescent protein-labeled Escherichia coli and group B Streptococci

BACKGROUND

Neonatal sepsis is characterized by an excessive inflammatory response induced by immune cells (monocytes). We investigated the initial stage of monocyte-pathogen interaction, i.e. bacterial ingestion and degradation at the single-cell level, by comparing a new flow cytometric procedure with culture methods. We also examined the hypothesis that, in terms of phagocytosis-induced cell death (PICD), phenotype, or cytokine production, cord blood monocytes (CBMO) differ from monocytes derived from adults (peripheral blood monocytes, PBMO).

METHODS

Phagocytosis and intracellular degradation were assessed by means of flow cytometry and bacterial cultures of green fluorescent protein-labeled group B Streptococci (GBS) and Escherichia coli. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured through luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence. Apoptosis, phenotype, and cytokine production were assessed through flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Flow cytometry and bacterial cultures showed no difference between phagocytosis and degradation of GBS and E. coli by PBMO and CBMO. A high correlation between both methods was observed. No difference in ROS production was evident. In comparison with PBMO, CBMO apoptosis was lower after exposure to GBS and E. coli. Similarities were found between nonapoptotic monocytes and pro-inflammatory monocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

PICD is lower in CBMO during the early stages of monocyte-pathogen interaction. Our results emphasize that monocyte apoptosis has a potential role in tailoring the immune response in neonatal sepsis.

Supplementation of curcumin and vitamin E enhances oxidative stress, but restores hepatic histoarchitecture in hypothyroid rats

AIMS

In the present study, the effects of vitamin E and curcumin on hepatic dysfunction, mitochondrial oxygen consumption as well as hyperlipidemia in hypothyroid rats are reported.

MAIN METHODS

Adult male rats were rendered hypothyroid by administration of 0.05% 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) in their drinking water, while vitamin E (200 mg/kg body weight) and curcumin (30 mg/kg body weight) were supplemented orally for 30 days.

KEY FINDINGS

Hypothyroidism-induced elevation in serum aspartate aminotransferase activity was found to decline in vitamin E and curcumin treated rats. Nevertheless, distorted histoarchitecture revealed in hypothyroid rat liver was alleviated to normal by vitamin E and curcumin treatment. Regulation of hypothyroidism induced decrease in complexes I and II mediated mitochondrial respiration by vitamin E and curcumin was found to be different. Administration of curcumin to hypothyroid rats alleviates the decreased state 4 respiration and increased respiratory control ratio (RCR) level in complex I mediated mitochondrial oxygen consumption, whereas complex II mediated respiration was not influenced by exogenous antioxidants. Although, increase in serum concentration of total cholesterol was not modified by exogenous antioxidants, increased level of non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) in serum of hypothyroid rats was further enhanced by vitamin E and curcumin. Moreover, a significant elevation in mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation was noticed in hypothyroid groups treated with vitamin E and curcumin.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present study suggests that supplementation of curcumin and vitamin E enhances oxidative stress parameters and hyperlipidemia; nevertheless, it protects hypothyroid-induced altered rectal temperature, serum transaminase activity and hepatic histoarchitecture.

Cytomics and nanobioengineering

The finding that an individual's genome differs as much as by many million variants from that of the human reference assembly diminished the great enthusiasm that every disease could be predicted based on nucleotide polymorphisms. Even individual cells of an organ may be specifically equipped to perform specific tasks and that the information of individual cells in a cell system is key information to understand function or dysfunction. Therefore, cytomics received great attention during the last years as it allows to quantitatively and qualitatively analyzing great number of individual cells, cell constituents, and of their intracellular and functional interactions in a cellular system and also giving the concept of analysis of these data.Exhaustive data extraction from multiparametric assays and multiple tests are the prerequisite for prediction of drug toxicity. Cytomics, as novel approach for unsupervised data analysis give a chance to find the most predictive parameters, which describe best the toxicity of a chemical. Cytomics is intrinsically connected to drug development and drug discovery.Focused on small structures, nanobioengineering is the ideal partner of cytomics, the systems biological discipline for cell population analysis. Realizing the idea "from the molecule to the patient" develops and offers chemical compounds, proteins, and other biomolecules, cells as well as tissues as instruments and products for a wide variety of biotechnological and biomedical applications.The integrative nanobioengineering combining different disciplines of nanotechnology will promote the development of innovative therapies and diagnostic methods. It can improve the precision of the measurements with focus on single cell analysis. By nanobioengineering and whole body imaging techniques, cytomics covers the field from molecules through bacterial cells, eukaryotic tissues, and organs to small animal live analysis. Toxicological testing and medical drug development are currently strongly broadening. It harbors the promise to substantially impact on various fields of biomedicine, drug discovery, and predictive medicine.As the number of scientific data is rising exponentially, new data analysis tools and strategies like cytomics and nanobioengineering take a lead and get closer to application. Bionanoengineering may strongly support the quantitative data supply, thus strengthening the rational for cytomics approach.