A simple method for accurate estimation of apoptotic cells

Experimentally exposed toxic effects of long-term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of CIP in males and females of the silver catfish Rhamdia quelen

Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is an antibiotic commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. It is present in the aquatic environment, but we still know very little about its effect on non-targeted organisms. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of long-term exposure to environmental CIP concentrations (1, 10, and 100 μg.L^-1) in males and females of Rhamdia quelen. After 28 days of exposure, we collected the blood for the analysis of hematological and genotoxic biomarkers. Additionally, we measured 17 β-estradiol and 11 keto-testosterone levels. After the euthanasia, we collected the brain and the hypothalamus to analyze acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and neurotransmitters, respectively. The liver and gonads were assessed for biochemical, genotoxic, and histopathological biomarkers. At 100 μg.L^-1 CIP, we observed genotoxicity in the blood, nuclear morphological changes, apoptosis, leukopenia, and a reduction of AChE in the brain. In the liver was observed oxidative stress and apoptosis. At 10 μg.L^-1 CIP, leukopenia, morphological changes, and apoptosis were presented in the blood and a reduction of AChE in the brain. Apoptosis, leukocyte infiltration, steatosis, and necrosis occurred in the liver. Even at the lowest concentration (1 μg.L^-1), adverse effects such as erythrocyte and liver genotoxicity, hepatocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress, and a decrease in somatic indexes were observed. The results showed the importance of monitoring CIP concentrations in the aquatic environment that cause sublethal effects on fish.

Mini-αA-Crystallin Stifled Melittin-Induced Haemolysis and Lymphocyte Lysis

Melittin, the most potent pharmacological ingredient of honey bee venom, induces haemolysis, lymphocyte lysis, long-term pain, localised inflammation, and hyperalgesia. In this study, efforts were made to subdue the melittin’s ill effects using a chaperone peptide called ‘mini-αA-crystallin’ (MAC) derived from eye lens αA-crystallin. Haemolytic test on human red blood cells, percentage viability, and DNA diffusion assay on Human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs) were performed with melittin in the presence or absence of MAC. Propidium iodide and Annexin V-FITC dual staining were performed to analyse quantitative levels of necrotic and apoptotic induction by melittin in the presence or absence of MAC on HPBLs using a flow cytometer. A computational study to find out the interactions between MAC and melittin was undertaken by modelling the structure of MAC using a PEP-FOLD server. The result showed that MAC inhibited melittin-induced lysis in nucleated (lymphocytes) and enucleated (RBC) cells. Flow cytometric analysis revealed a substantial increase in the necrotic and late apoptotic cells after treating HPBLs with melittin (4 µg/ml) for 24 h. Treatment with MAC at a 2:1 molar ratio prevented HPBLs from developing melittin-induced necrosis and late apoptosis. In the docking study, hydrogen, van der Waals, π-π stacking, and salt bridges were observed between the MAC and melittin complex, confirming a strong interaction between them. The MAC-melittin complex was stable during molecular dynamics simulation. These findings may be beneficial in developing a medication for treating severe cases of honeybee stings.

TiO2-NPs and cadmium co-exposure: in vitro assessment of genetic and genomic DNA damage on Dicentrarchus labrax embryonic cells

The increased titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) spread and their interaction with organic and inorganic pollutants arouses concern for the potential hazards for organisms and environment. This study tested in vitro the genotoxic effects of TiO₂-NPs (1 μg/mL) and cadmium (Cd) (0.1 μg/mL) co-exposure using Dicentrarchus labrax embryonic cells (DLEC) as experimental model. The genotoxicity tests (Comet assay, Diffusion Assay and Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) were conducted after 3, 24 and 48 hours of exposure to TiO₂-NPs and Cd alone and in combination. The results showed that the percentage of DNA damage and apoptotic cells increases following 48 hours TiO₂-NPs exposure, while DNA instability was detected for all the times tested. Cd induced genotoxic effects starting from 3 hour-exposure and for all the treatment times. Cd + TiO₂-NPs co-exposure did not cause any genomic damage or apoptosis for all the exposure times. The possibility that Cd and TiO₂-NPs form aggregates no longer able of penetrating the nucleus and damaging the genetic material is discussed.

Juvenile exposure and adult risk assessment with single versus repeated exposure of melphalan in the germ cells of male SD rat: Deciphering the molecular mechanisms

Melphalan significantly contributes to the increase in childhood cancer survival rate. It acts as a gonadotoxic agent and leads to testes damage, dysbalance in gonadal hormones, and impairment in the germ cell proliferation. Therefore, it might be a potent threat to male fertility in individuals who have undergone melphalan treatment during childhood cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms of melphalan-induced gonadal damage are not yet fully explored and they need to be investigated to determine the benefit-risk profile. In the present study, juvenile male SD rats were subjected to single and intermittent cycles of melphalan exposure in a dose-dependent (0.375, 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg) manner. Methods of end-points evaluations were quantification of micronuclei formation in peripheral blood, sperm count, sperm motility and head morphology, sperm and testicular DNA damage, histological studies in testes, oxidative/nitrosative stress parameters. A single cycle of exposure at high dose (1.5 mg/kg) produced significant effect on micronuclei formation only after the first week of exposure, whereas failed to produce significant effect at the end of the sixth week. Intermittent cycles of exposure at the dose of 1.5 mg/kg produced significant alterations in all the parameters (micronuclei in peripheral blood, testes and epididymides weight and length, MDA, GSH and nitrite levels, sperm count and motility, sperm head morphology, testicular and sperm DNA damage, protein expression in testes and histological parameters). So, time of exposure as well as the amount of exposure (total dosage administered) is critical in determining the magnitude of the damage in germ cell risk assessment.

Toxic, cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of saline extract and fraction of Parkia pendula seeds in the developmental stages of Biomphalaria glabrata (Say 1818 - intermediate host) and cercaricide activity against the infectious agent of schistosomiasis

This study describes for the first time the effect of saline extract and Parkia pendula seed fraction on Biomphalaria glabrata adult embryos and molluscs well as the reproductive parameters (fecundity and fertility) and survival, in addition to cytotoxicity and genotoxicity through the profile of blood cells after exposure to sublethal concentrations. Furthermore, we analyzed the action of both preparations against the cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni and their environmental safety using the bioindicator Artemia salina. The saline extract and fraction showed toxic effects for embryos (CL₉₀ of 464.25, 479.62, 731.28, 643.28, 408.43 and 250.94, 318.03, 406.12, 635.64, 1.145 mg/mL, for blastula, gastrula, trocophore, veliger and hippo stage respectively), adult snails after 24 h of exposure (CL₉₀ of 9.50 and 10.92 mg/mL, respectively) with increased mortality after 7 days of observation and significant decrease (p <0.05; p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) in egg mass deposition. At sublethal concentrations, an increase in quantitative and morphological changes in hemocytes was observed, and in the genotoxicity/comet assay analysis, varying degrees of nuclear damage were detected. In addition, the saline extract showed changes in the motility of the cercariae, while the fraction howed toxicity from a concentration of 1.0 mg/mL. The saline extract showed toxicity to A. salina at the highest concentrations (3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 mg/mL), while the fraction did not show ecotoxicity. Thus, the saline extract and fraction was promising in combating schistosomiasis by eliminating the intermediate host and causing alterations and/or mortality to the infectious agent.

Sublethal concentrations of usnic acid potassium salt impairs physiological parameters of Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) (Pulmonata: Planorbidae) infected and not infected with Schistosoma mansoni

Schistosomiasis is a public health problem in many developing countries. The mollusc Biomphalaria glabrata is the most important vector of Schistosoma mansoni in South America. The population control of this vector to prevent the spread of schistosomiasis is currently done with the application of highly toxic molluscicide to the environment. The screening of substances in sublethal concentrations that have deleterious effects on physiological parameters is very relevant for the control of schistosomiasis, since the effectiveness of disease prevention increases if it acts on population control of the vector and on reproduction and elimination in S. mansoni cercariae. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive parameters (fecundity and fertility), intra-mollusk effect (sporocysts I (72 h) and II (14 days after)) on the development of cercariae of S. mansoni and the immune cell profile of B. glabrata exposed to sublethal concentrations (LC₂₅ - 0.5 µg/mL and LC₅₀ - 0.92 µg/mL) of the usnic acid potassium salt (potassium usnate). LC ₂₅ and LC ₅₀ significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the fecundity of B. glabrata when treated infected and/or not exposed to infection, while unviable embryos were not observed in sporocyst stage I, being only significant (p < 0.05) for mollusks infected and treated with LC₅₀ on sporocyst II. LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ of the potassium usnate caused significant reductions (p < 0.05) in the production and cercarial shedding when evaluated on sporocysts I and II. In addition, the mortality of infected and treated B. glabrata in the sporocyst II phase was quite marked after the 9th week of infection. Regarding the immunological cell profile of uninfected B. glabrata, both concentrations led to immunomodulatory responses, with significant morphological changes predominant of hemocytes that entered programmed cell death (apoptosis). It was concluded that the application of LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ from the potassium usnate could be useful in the population control of B. glabrata, since it interferes both in their biology and physiology and in the reproduction of the infectious agent of schistosomiasis mansoni.

Anti-Genotoxicity Evaluation of Ellagic Acid and Curcumin—An In Vitro Study on Zebrafish Blood Cells

Genotoxicity is the ability of specific substances to cause DNA damage, affecting development, physiology, and reproduction. This is often mediated by induction of oxidative stress. This in vitro study aims to test the ability of two antioxidants, ellagic acid (EA, 100 µM) and curcumin (Cur, 40 µM) to protect zebrafish blood cells from the genotoxic action of benzene (10 µL/mL). Cells were treated for 30, 60, and 90 min with EA or Cur alone and in combination with benzene. The antigenotoxic role of antioxidants was evaluated in terms of cytotoxicity by trypan blue dye, genome stability by RAPD-PCR technique, DNA fragmentation and percentage of apoptotic cells using Comet and Diffusion assay, respectively. The results did not show statistical differences in terms of cell viability, genome stability, DNA damage and apoptosis between cells treated with antioxidants. When zebrafish blood cells were co-incubated with individual antioxidants and benzene, a significant improvement of these parameters was observed in comparison with cells incubated in benzene. Our results suggested that EA and Cur are able to protect zebrafish blood cells against DNA damage and apoptosis caused by mutagenic substance, and laid the foundation for future studies investigating their antigenotoxic potential in DNA oxidative damage therapy.

Measurement of Cell Death in Mammalian Cells

Methods for assessing mammalian cell death are presented in this article, which is divided into six sections: (1) a brief overview of cytotoxicity and pathways of cell death; (2) a method to measure cell death using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release as a marker of membrane integrity; (3) a flow cytometry method that simultaneously measures two types of cell death, necrosis and apoptosis; (4) use of fluorescence microscopy and nuclear morphology to assess apoptosis and necrosis; (5) the use of multi-well plates and high-content analysis imaging systems to assess nuclear morphology; and (6) a discussion of the use of cytotoxicity assays to determine the mechanisms of cell death. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Measurement of plasma membrane integrity and viability using LDH release Basic Protocol 2: Measurement of necrosis and apoptosis using flow cytometry Basic Protocol 3: Determination of nuclear morphology and membrane integrity Alternate Protocol 1: Assessment of nuclear morphology and membrane integrity using DAPI and PI Alternate Protocol 2: Assessment of nuclear morphology using multi-well plates Basic Protocol 4: Measurement of time-dependent toxicity using cell death markers.

Characterization of plastics and their ecotoxicological effects in the Lambro River (N. Italy)

This study had the dual objective of both the qualitative and quantitative assessment of plastic mixtures sampled in 5 different sites located along the Lambro River (northern Italy), and the contemporarily determination of the ecotoxicological effects of the same mixtures sampled, through 21-day laboratory exposures of the freshwater bivalve Dreissena polymorpha. The monitoring survey was carried out by a Fourier Transform Infrared Microscope System, while the ecotoxicological assessment was performed by the mussel mortality, a biomarker suite and the proteomics. The main results of the monitoring have highlighted some critical points, related to the concentration of plastics detected at Milan and, especially at the southernmost sampling station, where a daily flow of more than 6 million plastic debris has been estimated, ending directly into the Po River, the main Italian river. The ecotoxicological analysis highlighted how the toxicity is not exclusively due to the plastic concentration, but that the different characteristics of the polymers probably become more important. Furthermore, we observed an extensive mortality of bivalves exposed to the sampled mixtures in the two southernmost sampling stations, while the battery of biomarkers and the results of proteomics have highlighted how the sampled plastic mixtures caused an imbalance in the redox state, already indicated as a classic effect due to plastic exposure, but also an impact on energy stock and on some fundamental cellular pathways always linked to energy metabolism.

Adsorption of Cd to TiO2-NPs Forms Low Genotoxic AGGREGATES in Zebrafish Cells

The aquatic environment is involved in the pollutants spreading mechanisms, including nanomaterials and heavy metals. The aims of this study were to assess the in vivo genotoxicity of Cd (1 mg/L) and to investigate the genomic effects generated by its co-exposure with TiO₂-NPs (10 µg/L). The study was performed using zebrafish as a model for 5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of exposure. The genotoxic potential was assessed by three experimental approaches: DNA integrity, degree of apoptosis, and molecular alterations at the genomic level by genomic template stability (% GTS) calculation. Results showed an increased in DNA damage after Cd exposure with a decrease in % GTS. The co-exposure (TiO₂-NPs + Cd) induced a no statistically significant loss of DNA integrity, a reduction of the apoptotic cell percentage and the recovery of genome stability for prolonged exposure days. Characterization and analytical determinations data showed Cd adsorption to TiO₂-NPs, which reduced free TiO₂-NPs levels. The results of our study suggest that TiO₂-NPs could be used for the development of controlled heavy metal bioremediation systems.

Apoptosis Detection Methods in Diagnosis of Cancer and Their Potential Role in Treatment: Advantages and Disadvantages: a Review

INTRODUCTION

Interruption of regulation of apoptosis can play a leading role in cancers where elevated apoptosis causes neurodegeneration, autoimmunity, AIDS, and ischemia. One famous example can be p53's downregulation, which is a tumor suppressor gene, which consequently can cause a decrease in apoptosis rate and intense tumor growth and progression and development and inactivation of 53; it can be extended to many cancers in human. Anyhow, apoptosis is a double-edge sword. There are many trials and studies are going on observation and understanding of different steps involved in apoptosis. Apoptosis has a very major role in carcinogenesis and the treatment of cancer.

AIM

In this updated-cum-comprehensive review, we would like to cover what is apoptosis and cancer and also, will discuss all known methods of apoptosisdetection, their applicability in the treatment of cancer, and their advantages, disadvantages, and limitations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Published articles on indexing sources such as PubMed, Scopus from 2000 to date.

RESULT

By considering all above information including each methods pros and cons, these routine methods could be great tool with distinctive qualities in treatmentwhich can be great help from patient perspective and as well from government ad health care system point of view.

CONCLUSION

Accurate diagnosis of cell apoptotic biopathways at different stages assists in evaluating near to exact apoptotic index, which is the perfect sign andindicator for metastasis and also prognosis, thus foreseeing treatment outcome.

Wildtype σ1 receptor and the receptor agonist improve ALS-associated mutation-induced insolubility and toxicity

Genetic mutations related to ALS, a progressive neurological disease, have been discovered in the gene encoding σ-1 receptor (σ1R). We previously reported that σ1RE102Q elicits toxicity in cells. The σ1R forms oligomeric states that are regulated by ligands. Nevertheless, little is known about the effect of ALS-related mutations on oligomer formation. Here, we transfected NSC-34 cells, a motor neuronal cell line, and HEK293T cells with σ1R-mCherry (mCh), σ1RE102Q-mCh, or nontagged forms to investigate detergent solubility and subcellular distribution using immunocytochemistry and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. The oligomeric state was determined using crosslinking procedure. σ1Rs were soluble to detergents, whereas the mutants accumulated in the insoluble fraction. Within the soluble fraction, peak distribution of mutants appeared in higher sucrose density fractions. Mutants formed intracellular aggregates that were co-stained with p62, ubiquitin, and phosphorylated pancreatic eukaryotic translation initiation factor-2-α kinase in NSC-34 cells but not in HEK293T cells. The aggregates had significantly lower recovery in fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. Acute treatment with σ1R agonist SA4503 failed to improve recovery, whereas prolonged treatment for 48 h significantly decreased σ1RE102Q-mCh insolubility and inhibited apoptosis. Whereas σ1R-mCh formed monomers and dimers, σ1RE102Q-mCh also formed trimers and tetramers. SA4503 reduced accumulation of the four types in the insoluble fraction and increased monomers in the soluble fraction. The σ1RE102Q insolubility was diminished by σ1R-mCh co-expression. These results suggest that the agonist and WT σ1R modify the detergent insolubility, toxicity, and oligomeric state of σ1RE102Q, which may lead to promising new treatments for σ1R-related ALS.

Plastics and biodegradable plastics: ecotoxicity comparison between polyvinylchloride and Mater-Bi® micro-debris in a freshwater biological model

The improper release of plastic items and wastes is nowadays one of the main environmental and social problems, whose solution or mitigation represents a great challenge worldwide. In this context, the growing use of the so-called biodegradable plastics could represent a possible solution in the short to medium term. The few information known about the ecological impact of these materials on freshwater organisms, especially the ones relative to the micro-debris derived from their aging, prompted us to study the comparison of the sub-lethal effects eventually caused by plastic and biodegradable plastic micro-debris on the mussel Dreissena polymorpha, which represents an excellent biological model for the freshwater ecosystems. We selected two powders of polyvinylchloride (PVC) and Mater-Bi® administered at 1 mg/L to D. polymorpha specimens in semi-static conditions for 14 days. The presence of micro-debris was evaluated on mussel tissues and pseudo-faeces using advanced microscopy techniques. The sub-lethal effects were investigated on exposed mussels at 6 and 14 days using a suite of biomarkers of cellular stress, oxidative damage, and genotoxicity. Lastly, we compared the ecotoxicity of these two materials integrating each endpoint in the Biomarker Response Index. Microscopy observations highlighted the surprising absence of micro-debris in the gut lumen and tissues of exposed mussels, but the presence of both PVC and Mater-Bi® micro-debris in the pseudo-faeces, suggesting a possible efficient elimination mechanism adopted by mussels to avoid the micro-debris gulping. Consequently, we did not observe significant sub-lethal effects, except for the glutathione-S-transferase activity modulation after 6 days of exposure.

Detection of Apoptosis in Leukoplakia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma using Methyl Green Pyronin and Hematoxylin and Eosin

Background & Objective:

Cell population and turnover are controlled by a balance between cell proliferation and apoptosis. Detection of apoptosis in oral cancer contributes to its better prognosis and improved management. This study aimed to quantify apoptotic cells in leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using methyl green-pyronin (MGP) and hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining.

Methods:

The sample included a total of 130 subjects (comprising 108 males and 22 females). Formalin fixed and paraffin embedded tissues were used and categorized into three groups of normal oral mucosa (n=10), leukoplakia with dysplasia (n=60), and OSCC (n=60). The number of apoptotic cells and apoptotic index (AI) were calculated after staining with MGP and routine H & E stained slides.

Results:

MGP stained the condensed chromatin of apoptotic cells. Statistically significant difference (P≤0.001) was observed among various study groups in terms of numbers of AI and apoptotic cells. Also, AI increased with increasing grades of dysplasia, and it was the highest in well differentiated OSCC. Results were statistically significant in both H & E and MGP stained sections (P≤0.001). A good correlation was found between MGP and H & E staining results.

Conclusion:

MGP is more specific and can lead to intense staining for chromatin in apoptotic cells. Accordingly, it can provide a good alternative to H&E in identifying apoptotic cells.

Hazard evaluation of plastic mixtures from four Italian subalpine great lakes on the basis of laboratory exposures of zebra mussels

Studies related to the evaluation of plastics in freshwaters have been increasing in recent years because approximately 80% of plastic items found in the sea are from inland waters. Despite the ecological relevance of these surveys, no information has been available until now about the hazard related to plastic mixtures in freshwaters. To fill this knowledge gap, we carried out a study aimed to assess the environmental risk associated with the "cocktail" of plastics and environmental pollutants adsorbed on their surface in one of the larger European freshwater basins. Plastic debris was collected by a manta trawl along one transect each in four of the Italian subalpine great lakes (Lake Maggiore, Como, Iseo and Garda) and administered to zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), a useful freshwater biological model present in all these lakes. We estimated a plastic density from 4908 MPs/km² (Lake Iseo) to 272,261 MPs/km² (Lake Maggiore), while the most common polymers found were polyethylene and polypropylene, with percentages varying between 73% and 100%. A biomarkers suite consisting of 10 different endpoints was performed after 7 days of exposure to investigate the molecular and cellular effects of plastics and related adsorbed pollutants. The main results highlighted a diffuse but different toxicity due to plastics for each lake, and there were significant changes in the antioxidant and detoxifying enzyme activities in Lake Maggiore, Iseo and Garda, an increase in protein carbonylation in L. Como, and a cellular viability decrease of approximately 30% for zebra mussels from L. Iseo and Garda. Despite this variability in the endpoints' responses, the application of the biomarker response index showed a similar environmental hazard due to plastics for all the sampled lakes.

Chronic interstitial nephritis in agricultural communities is a toxin-induced proximal tubular nephropathy

Almost 30 years after the detection of chronic interstitial nephritis in agricultural communities (CINAC) its etiology remains unknown. To help define this we examined 34 renal biopsies from Sri Lanka, El Salvador, India and France of patients with chronic kidney disease 2-3 and diagnosed with CINAC by light and electron microscopy. In addition to known histopathology, we identified a unique constellation of proximal tubular cell findings including large dysmorphic lysosomes with a light-medium electron-dense matrix containing dispersed dark electron-dense non-membrane bound "aggregates". These aggregates associated with varying degrees of cellular/tubular atrophy, apparent cell fragment shedding and no-weak proximal tubular cell proliferative capacity. Identical lysosomal lesions, identifiable by electron microscopy, were observed in 9% of renal transplant implantation biopsies, but were more prevalent in six month (50%) and 12 month (67%) protocol biopsies and in indication biopsies (76%) of calcineurin inhibitor treated transplant patients. The phenotype was also found associated with nephrotoxic drugs (lomustine, clomiphene, lithium, cocaine) and in some patients with light chain tubulopathy, all conditions that can be directly or indirectly linked to calcineurin pathway inhibition or modulation. One hundred biopsies of normal kidneys, drug/toxin induced nephropathies, and overt proteinuric patients of different etiologies to some extent could demonstrate the light microscopic proximal tubular cell changes, but rarely the electron microscopic lysosomal features. Rats treated with the calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporine for four weeks developed similar proximal tubular cell lysosomal alterations, which were absent in a dehydration group. Overall, the finding of an identical proximal tubular cell (lysosomal) lesion in CINAC and calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity in different geographic regions suggests a common paradigm where CINAC patients undergo a tubulotoxic mechanism similar to calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity.

NPs-TiO2 and Lincomycin Coexposure Induces DNA Damage in Cultured Human Amniotic Cells

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (NPs-TiO2 or TiO2-NPs) have been employed in many commercial products such as medicines, foods and cosmetics. TiO2-NPs are able to carry antibiotics to target cells enhancing the antimicrobial efficiency; so that these nanoparticles are generally used in antibiotic capsules, like lincomycin, added as a dye. Lincomycin is usually used to treat pregnancy bacterial vaginosis and its combination with TiO2-NPs arises questions on the potential effects on fetus health. This study investigated the potential impact of TiO2-NPs and lincomycin co-exposure on human amniocytes in vitro. Cytotoxicity was evaluated with trypan blue vitality test, while genotoxic damage was performed by Comet Test, Diffusion Assay and RAPD-PCR for 48 and 72 exposure hours. Lincomycin exposure produced no genotoxic effects on amniotic cells, instead, the TiO2-NPs exposure induced genotoxicity. TiO2-NPs and lincomycin co-exposure caused significant increase of DNA fragmentation, apoptosis and DNA damage in amniocytes starting from 48 exposure hours. These results contribute to monitor the use of TiO2-NPs combined with drugs in medical application. The potential impact of antibiotics with TiO2-NPs during pregnancy could be associated with adverse effects on embryo DNA. The use of nanomaterials in drugs formulation should be strictly controlled in order to minimize risks.

Genotoxicity Evaluation of the Soybean Isoflavone Genistein in Human Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells. Study of Its Potential Use in Thyroid Cancer Therapy

Genistein is one of the several known isoflavonic phytoestrogens found in a number of plants, with soybeans and soy products being the primary food source. The aim of the study is to evaluate if genistein is able to exert antineoplastic action in primary human papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cells. Thyroid tissues were treated with genistein (1-10-50-100 µM). Cell viability, proliferation, DNA primary damage and chromosomal damage were evaluated. An antiproliferative effect was induced by the highest doses of genistein, and such an effect was synergistically enhanced by the cotreatment with the antineoplastic drug sorafenib. Comet assay did not show any genotoxic effect in terms of primary DNA damage at all the times (4 and 24 h) and tested doses. A reduction of hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA primary damage in primary thyrocytes from PTC cells pretreated with genistein was observed. Data suggest that genistein exerts antineoplastic action, does not induce genotoxic effects while reduces oxidative-induced DNA damage in primary thyrocytes from PTC cells, supporting its possible use in therapeutic intervention.

The Comet Assay in Marine Animals

Comet assay is a quick and versatile technique for assessing DNA damage in individual cells. It allows for the detection of DNA single- and double-strand breaks, as well as the presence of alkali labile sites and cross-links. Here we describe protocols for the single-cell gel electrophoresis (Comet assay) in its alkaline (pH > 13), mild alkaline (pH = 12.1) and neutral (pH = 8) versions when applied in marine animals.

Multimarker study of the effects of antifouling biocide on benthic organisms: results using Perna viridis as candidate species

Toxic effects of continuous low dose application of the antifouling biocide chlorine on marine benthic organisms were monitored using transplanted green mussels (Perna viridis) and a suite of biomarkers. Caged mussels were deployed in chlorinated and non-chlorinated sections of the cooling system of an operating electric power plant. Biomarkers indicative of general stress, oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase and catalase), and DNA integrity, along with expression of stress proteins, were studied to assess the effects. Deterioration in condition index with corresponding increase in DNA strand breaks was indicative of chlorine stress. Superoxide dismutase enzyme did not show any particular trend, but catalase activity was high during the initial days of exposure at the chlorinated site; later, it became almost equal to that at the control site. Similarly, expressions of stress proteins (HSP60, HSP70, HSP22, GSTS1, and CYP4) showed bell-shaped pattern during the period of study. Positive correlation among the endpoints indicated the utility of the multimarker approach to monitor the effects of continuous low dose chlorination on mussels.

DNA Diffusion Assay Applied to Plant Cells

DNA diffusion assay is a simple, sensitive and reliable technique which allows the assessment of programmed cell death (PCD) or necrosis events based on nuclear morphology. It consists in isolating nuclei from plant material, which are then embedded in agarose and subjected to lysis in alkaline buffers. Under these conditions, and due to the presence of abundant alkali-labile sites in the DNA, small pieces of DNA diffuse in the agarose gel giving a specific halo appearance when stained with fluorescent dyes like DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole). Here, we describe an optimized protocol for DNA diffusion assay applied to different types of plant cells/tissues, indicating all the critical steps required for a successful experimental procedure.

Environmental concentrations of cocaine and its main metabolites modulated antioxidant response and caused cyto-genotoxic effects in zebrafish embryo cells

Illicit drugs have been recently identified as a serious environmental problem because of the growing evidence regarding their occurrence in aquatic environment and potential toxicity towards non-target organisms. Among them, cocaine (COC) and its main metabolites, namely benzoylecgonine (BE) and ecgonine methyl ester (EME), are commonly measured in freshwaters worldwide at levels that might cause diverse sub-lethal effects to aquatic organisms. Thus, the present study was aimed at investigating the potential adverse effects induced by the exposure to environmental concentrations (0.04, 0.4, 4 and 40 nM) of COC, BE, and EME on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos at 96 h post fertilization. Cytotoxicity was assessed by the Trypan Blue exclusion method, while primary and fixed genetic damages were evaluated by the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, and the DNA diffusion assay together with the Micronucleus test, respectively. The involvement of oxidative stress in the mechanism of action (MoA) of all tested drugs was assessed by measuring the activity of defense enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GST) and the expression of their encoding genes. Exposure to COC and both metabolites significantly reduced cell viability, increased DNA fragmentation and promoted the onset of apoptotic cells and micronuclei in zebrafish embryos. Results from oxidative stress-related endpoints and gene expression suggested that the observed genotoxicity may be caused by an overproduction of free radicals that imbalanced the oxidative status of embryos. The integration of biomarker responses into a synthetic index showed that at each tested concentration, BE and EME had a similar toxicity and were both more toxic than COC. Our data confirmed the potential toxicity of environmental concentrations of COC, BE, and EME, suggesting the need of further in-depth studies to shed light on their MoA and long-term toxicity towards non-target aquatic species.

Loud Noise Exposure Produces DNA, Neurotransmitter and Morphological Damage within Specific Brain Areas

Exposure to loud noise is a major environmental threat to public health. Loud noise exposure, apart from affecting the inner ear, is deleterious for cardiovascular, endocrine and nervous systems and it is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. In this study we investigated DNA, neurotransmitters and immune-histochemical alterations induced by exposure to loud noise in three major brain areas (cerebellum, hippocampus, striatum) of Wistar rats. Rats were exposed to loud noise (100 dBA) for 12 h. The effects of noise on DNA integrity in all three brain areas were evaluated by using Comet assay. In parallel studies, brain monoamine levels and morphology of nigrostriatal pathways, hippocampus and cerebellum were analyzed at different time intervals (24 h and 7 days) after noise exposure. Loud noise produced a sudden increase in DNA damage in all the brain areas under investigation. Monoamine levels detected at 7 days following exposure were differently affected depending on the specific brain area. Namely, striatal but not hippocampal dopamine (DA) significantly decreased, whereas hippocampal and cerebellar noradrenaline (NA) was significantly reduced. This is in line with pathological findings within striatum and hippocampus consisting of a decrease in striatal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) combined with increased Bax and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Loud noise exposure lasting 12 h causes immediate DNA, and long-lasting neurotransmitter and immune-histochemical alterations within specific brain areas of the rat. These alterations may suggest an anatomical and functional link to explain the neurobiology of diseases which prevail in human subjects exposed to environmental noise.

An Increased Genotoxic Risk in Lymphocytes from Phototherapy-Treated Hyperbilirubinemic Neonates

BACKGROUND

Phototherapy is believed to be a safe method for the management of hyperbilirubinemia. However, there are some controversial issues regarding the genotoxic effects of phototherapy on DNA. The aim of this study was to investigate morphologically both phototherapy-induced DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and apoptosis in lymphocytes derived from jaundiced and non-jaundiced neonates.

METHODS

Newborns were divided into three groups, including phototherapy-treated (PT, n=30) jaundiced newborns with total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels >15 mg/dl, non-treated jaundiced newborns (C+, n=27), as positive, as well as healthy negative (C-, n=30) controls with TSB levels ranging from 10 and 15 mg/dl and less than 5 mg/dl, respectively. Lymphocytes were isolated from whole blood samples by Ficoll-isopaque density gradient centrifugation and then assessed for DNA damage and apoptosis before and 24 hours after incubation at 37°C in 5% CO2 using the neutral comet assay.

RESULTS

DSB levels were significantly much higher in the PT group compared to the controls before incubation but decreased remarkably after the incubation period. As expected, no statistical differences were found between the two control groups before and after incubations. The frequency of apoptotic cells showed no significant differences among all the three groups before incubation; however, it was significantly increased in the PT group after incubation.

CONCLUSION

It seems that phototherapy in jaundiced infants is able not only to induce apoptosis in newborn lymphocytes but also to affect indirectly DNA integrity.

Increase in cannabis use may indirectly affect the health status of a freshwater species

Cannabis is the most used illicit drug worldwide and in some countries a new regulatory policy makes it legal under some restrictions. This situation could lead to a substantial increase in environmental levels of the cannabis active principle (Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol [Δ-9-THC]) and its main metabolite, 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH). Although previous studies have highlighted the toxicity of Δ-9-THC, the adverse effects of THC-COOH on aquatic organisms is completely unknown, even though such effects could be more significant because the environmental concentrations of THC-COOH are higher than those of the parent compound. The present study aimed to assess oxidative and genetic damage to the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) because of 14-d exposures to 3 THC-COOH concentrations, mimicking a current environmental situation (100 ng/L), as well as exposure to 2 possible worst-case scenarios (500 ng/L and 1000 ng/L), because of the potential increase in THC-COOH in surface waters. Variations in the activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were measured, as well as levels of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content. Genetic injuries were investigated by single-cell gel electrophoresis assay, DNA diffusion assay, and the micronucleus test. A significant imbalance in antioxidant defense enzymes was noted in response to the 3 tested concentrations, whereas oxidative damage was noted only at the higher one. Moreover, an increase in DNA fragmentation in zebra mussel hemocytes, but no fixed genetic damage, was found. Although the results showed that THC-COOH toxicity was lower than that of Δ-9-THC, the increase in cannabis use might increase its levels in freshwaters, enhancing its hazard to bivalves and likely to the whole aquatic community. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:472-479. © 2016 SETAC.

Multi-biomarker investigation to assess toxicity induced by two antidepressants on Dreissena polymorpha

Antidepressants are one of the main pharmaceutical classes detected in the aquatic environment. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of information regarding their potential adverse effects on non-target organisms. Thus, the aim of this study was the evaluation of sub-lethal effects on the freshwater mussel Dreissena polymorpha of two antidepressants commonly found in the aquatic environment, namely Fluoxetine (FLX) and Citalopram (CT). D. polymorpha specimens were exposed to FLX and CT alone and to their mixture (MIX) at the environmental concentration of 500ng/L for 14days. We evaluated the sub-lethal effects in the mussel soft tissues by means of a biomarker suite: the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and the activity of the phase II detoxifying enzyme glutathione-S-transferase (GST). The oxidative damage was evaluated by lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonylation (PCC), while genetic damage was tested on D. polymorpha hemocytes by Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, DNA diffusion assay and micronucleus test (MN test). Finally, the functionality of the ABC transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) was measured in D. polymorpha gills. Our results highlight that CT, MIX and to a lesser extent FLX, caused a significant alteration of the oxidative status of bivalves, accompanied by a significant reduction of P-gp efflux activity. However, only FLX induced a slight, but significant, increase in apoptotic and necrotic cell frequencies. Considering the variability in biomarker response and to perform a toxicity comparison of tested molecules, we integrated each endpoint into the Biomarker Response Index (BRI). The data integration showed that 500ng/L of FLX, CT and their MIX have the same toxicity on bivalves.

The Fast-Halo Assay for the Detection of DNA Damage

The need for express screening of the DNA damaging potential of chemicals has progressively increased over the past 20 years due to the wide number of new synthetic molecules to be evaluated, as well as the adoption of more stringent chemical regulations such as the EU REACH and risk reduction politics. In this regard, DNA diffusion assays such as the microelectrophoretic comet assay paved the way for rapid genotoxicity testing. A more significant simplification and speeding up of the experimental processes was achieved with the fast halo assay (FHA) described in the present chapter. FHA operates at the single cell level and relies on radial dispersion of the fragments of damaged DNA from intact nuclear DNA. The fragmented DNA is separated by diffusion in an alkaline solvent and is stained, visualized, and finally quantified using computer-assisted image analysis programs. This permits the rapid assessment of the extent of DNA breakage caused by different types of DNA lesions. FHA has proven to be sensitive, reliable, and flexible. This is currently one of the simplest, cheapest, and quickest assays for studying DNA damage and repair in living cells. It does not need expensive reagents or electrophoretic equipment and requires only 40 min to prepare samples for computer-based quantification. This technique can be particularly useful in rapid genotoxicity assessments and in high-throughput genotoxicity screenings.

Genotoxic effects induced by the exposure to an environmental mixture of illicit drugs to the zebra mussel

Despite the growing interest on the presence of illicit drugs in freshwater ecosystems, just recently the attention has been focused on their potential toxicity towards non-target aquatic species. However, these studies largely neglected the effects induced by exposure to complex mixtures of illicit drugs, which could be different compared to those caused by single psychoactive molecules. This study was aimed at investigating the genetic damage induced by a 14-day exposure to a realistic mixture of the most common illicit drugs found in surface waters worldwide (cocaine, benzoylecgonine, amphetamine, morphine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) on the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha). The mixture caused a significant increase of DNA fragmentation and triggered the apoptotic process and micronuclei formation in zebra mussel hemocytes, pointing out its potential genotoxicity towards this bivalve species.

Histochemical detection and comparison of apoptotic cells in the gingival epithelium using hematoxylin and eosin and methyl green-pyronin: A pilot study

BACKGROUND

Apoptosis plays a critical role in the regulation of inflammation and host immune response. It helps in tissue homeostasis and a disturbance in this is often associated with disease. The use of histochemical stains like hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) and methyl green-pyronin (MGP) can provide a simple and cost-effective method for the detection of apoptotic cells.

AIM

Study intended to analyze the expression of apoptosis in the gingival epithelium of healthy subjects and in patients with chronic periodontitis, using H and E and MGP. It is also proposed to correlate the apoptotic index (AI) of healthy individuals and those with chronic periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty gingival biopsies were harvested from which ten samples were of healthy subjects and ten subjects who suffered from chronic periodontitis. Apoptotic cells were analyzed using MGP and H and E under light microscopy.

RESULTS

Apoptotic cells were identified at ×100 magnification and AI was calculated. Apoptotic cells were easily distinguishable in MGP stained sections when compared to those stained using H and E. Moreover, apoptotic cell count was higher in chronic periodontitis. Statistical analyses were done by Tukey's multiple post hoc procedure.

CONCLUSION

The study reveals that MGP staining can be used in a routine basic laboratory set up as one of the cost-effective methods for the detection of apoptotic cells.

Amphetamine exposure imbalanced antioxidant activity in the bivalve Dreissena polymorpha causing oxidative and genetic damage

Illicit drugs have been recognized as emerging aquatic pollutants due to their presence in aquatic ecosystems up to µg/L level. Among these, the synthetic psycho-stimulant drug amphetamine (AMPH) is commonly found in both surface and wastewaters worldwide. Even though the environmental occurrence of AMPH is well-known, the information on its toxicity towards non-target freshwater organisms is completely lacking. This study investigated the imbalance of the oxidative status and both oxidative and genetic damage induced by a 14-day exposure to two concentrations (500 ng/L and 5000 ng/L) of AMPH on the freshwater bivalve Dreissena polymorpha by the application of a biomarker suite. We investigated the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx), the phase II detoxifying enzyme GST, the lipid peroxidation level (LPO) and protein carbonyl content (PCC), as well as primary (Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis assay) and fixed (DNA diffusion assay and Micronucleus test) genetic damage. Our results showed that a current realistic AMPH concentration (500 ng/L) did neither cause notable imbalances in enzymatic activities, nor oxidative and genetic damage to cellular macromolecules. In contrast, the bell-shaped trend of antioxidants showed at the highest tested concentration (5000 ng/L) suggested an overproduction of reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative damage, as confirmed by the significant increase of protein carbonylation and DNA fragmentation.

M2L4 coordination capsules with tunable anticancer activity upon guest encapsulation

Guest encapsulation can modulate the cytotoxicity of anthracene-based nano-capsules and broaden their applications from metallodrugs to biocompatible delivery systems.

Sublethal effects induced by morphine to the freshwater biological model Dreissena polymorpha

Opioids are considered as emerging contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, mainly due to their large illicit consume worldwide. Morphine (MOR) is the main opiate and it was commonly found at measurable concentrations in freshwaters. Even though its occurrence is well documented, just limited information is available regarding its hazard to nontarget organisms. The aim of this study was of the evaluation of sublethal effects induced by MOR to the freshwater bivalve Dreissena polymorpha. We exposed mussels to two MOR concentrations (0.05 µg/L and 0.5 µg/L) for 14 days and we investigated the sublethal effects by a suite of biomarkers. The Neutral Red Retention Assay (NRRA) was used as a test of cytotoxicity, while the oxidative stress was evaluated by the activity of antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, namely catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and by measuring the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonylation (PCC). The genetic damage was assessed by the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, the DNA diffusion assay and the micronucleus test (MN test). Finally, the filtration rate of D. polymorpha was evaluated in order to investigate possible physiological effects. Both tested concentrations reduced the lysosome membrane stability of bivalves, but only the highest MOR concentration induced significant changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) and increase in lipid peroxidation levels. Slight increase in primary DNA fragmentation was noticed, while no fixed genetic damage and alterations of the filtering rate were found.

Anti-genotoxic ability of α-tocopherol and Anthocyanin to counteract fish DNA damage induced by musk xylene

Many compounds released into the environment are able to interact with genetic material. The main purpose of genetic toxicology is to investigate the adverse effects of genotoxic molecules such as reduced fitness, changes in gene frequencies and their impact on genetic diversity in populations following genotoxic exposure. However, the ecological effects of many genotoxic compounds remain poorly understood. The aim of this research was to evaluate the genotoxic activity of an artificial musk (musk xylene, MX) and the potential anti-genotoxicity against this chemical compound of two antioxidant substances (α-tocopherol and an anthocyanins enriched extract). The studies were performed both in vivo and in vitro, using the teleost Danio rerio and the DLEC (Dicentrarchus labrax embryonic cells) cell line. We carried out the exposure to these substances at different times. DNA and cell damage and their possible repair were detected by various experimental approaches: DNA strand breaks (Comet Assay), degree of apoptosis (Diffusion Assay) and molecular alterations at the genomic level (RAPD-PCR technique). Data were collected and analyzed for statistical significance using the Student's t test. The results of this study showed that MX exhibited a genotoxic activity even after short exposure times. The anti-genotoxicity experiments evidenced that both α-tocopherol and Anthocyanin were able to contrast the genotoxic effects induced by MX, both in vivo and in vitro.

n-TiO2 and CdCl2 co-exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and cadmium: Genomic, DNA and chromosomal damage evaluation in the marine fish European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Due to the large production and growing use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (n-TiO2), their release in the marine environment and their potential interaction with existing toxic contaminants represent a growing concern for biota. Different end-points of genotoxicity were investigated in the European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax exposed to n-TiO2 (1mgL(-1)) either alone and combined with CdCl2 (0.1mgL(-1)) for 7 days. DNA primary damage (comet assay), apoptotic cells (diffusion assay), occurrence of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities (cytome assay) were assessed in peripheral erythrocytes and genomic stability (random amplified polymorphism DNA-PCR, RAPD assay) in muscle tissue. Results showed that genome template stability was reduced after CdCl2 and n-TiO2 exposure. Exposure to n-TiO2 alone was responsible for chromosomal alteration but ineffective in terms of DNA damage; while the opposite was observed in CdCl2 exposed specimens. Co-exposure apparently prevents the chromosomal damage and leads to a partial recovery of the genome template stability.

Curcumin prevents perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced genotoxicity and oxidative DNA damage in rat peripheral blood

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a man-made fluorosurfactant and global pollutant. PFOS a persistent and bioaccumulative compound, and it is widely distributed in humans and wildlife. Therefore, it was added to Annex B of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in May 2009. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound abundant in the rhizome of the perennial herb turmeric. It is commonly used as a dietary spice and coloring agent in cooking and anecdotally as an herb in traditional Asian medicine. In this study, male rats were treated with three different PFOS doses (0.6, 1.25, and 2.5 mg/kg) and one dose of curcumin, from Curcuma longa (80 mg/kg), and combined three doses of PFOS with 80 mg/kg dose of curcumin by gavage for 30 d at 48 h intervals. Here, we investigated the DNA damage via single-cell gel electrophoresis/comet assay and micronucleus test in rat peripheral blood in vivo. It is found that all doses of PFOS increased micronucleus frequency (p < 0.05) and strongly induced DNA damage in peripheral blood in two different parameters; the damaged cell percent and genetically damage index, and curcumin prevented the formation of DNA damage induced by PFOS. Results showed that curcumin inhibited DNA damage including GDI at certain levels at statistical manner, 30.07%, 54.41%, and 36.99% for 0.6 mg/kg, 1.25 mg/kg, and 2.5 mg/kg.

Genotoxicity assessment of TiO2 nanoparticles in the teleost Danio rerio

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs), widely used in paints, pharmaceutical preparations and in many consumer products, have been shown to induce cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenic responses both in vitro and in vivo. Numerous studies have shown the potential impact of nanoparticles on a series of aquatic organisms and their toxicity has been linked to their dissolution, surface properties and size. In vitro studies have raised concerns about the toxicity of TiO2 NPs, but there are very limited data on ecotoxicity to aquatic life. This in vivo study aimed to describe the genotoxicity of TiO2 NPs in the zebrafish Danio rerio. After 2 weeks of adaptation, groups of zebrafish were exposed to TiO2 NPs (1 and 10μg/L) for 5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The genotoxic potential of TiO2 NPs was assessed by the Comet assay, the Diffusion assay and RAPD-PCR technique. The use of multi-biomarkers has become an important aspect of ecotoxicology to evaluate environmental quality through a wide panel of biological responses triggered by contaminants. The highest genotoxic effect was observed at the maximum concentrations of nanoparticles (10μg/L) with all three tests at 14 and 21 days of exposure. The results suggests the presence of mechanisms that can reduce the n-TiO2 genotoxicity. Future studies are necessary to analyze the DNA repairing capacity in zebrafish cells and so verify the role of the antioxidant defence system in modulating the response to exposure to n-TiO2 in fish.

A histochemical comparison of methyl green-pyronin, and hematoxylin and eosin for detecting apoptotic cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma, oral leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis and normal oral mucosa

Analysis of apoptotic cells in oral pathological states could be useful for determining the rates of tissue turnover, which would help determine prognosis. The use of histochemical stains such as hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) and methyl green-pyronin (MGP) can provide a simple and cost-effective method for detecting apoptotic cells. We compared the efficacy of MGP and H & E for detecting apoptotic cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), oral leukoplakia (OL), oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and normal oral mucosa (NOM). Ten cases each of OSCC, OSMF, OL and NOM were retrieved from the archives and two serial sections were stained, one with H & E and the other with MGP. Apoptotic cells were identified at 100 x magnification and the apoptotic index was calculated. Apoptotic cells were distinguished more readily in MGP stained sections than in those stained with H & E. Also, the apoptotic cell count was greater in OSCC compared to OL, OSMF and NOM. We concluded that MGP staining can be used as a routine, cost-effective method for detecting apoptotic cells.

Terpinen-4-ol induces autophagic and apoptotic cell death in human leukemic HL-60 cells

BACKGROUND

Terpinen-4-ol, a monoterpene, is found as the main component of essential oil extracts from many plants. In this study apoptotic and autophagic types of cell death induced by terpinen-4-ol and associated mechanisms were investigated in human leukemic HL-60 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of human leukemic U937 and HL-60 cells was determined by MTT assay. Cytochrome c release, expression of Bax, Bcl-2, Bcl-xl and cleaved Bid were determined by Western blotting. Cell morphology was examined under a transmission electron microscope. LC3-I/II, ATG5 and Beclin-1 levels were detected by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Terpinen-4-ol exhibited cytotoxicity to human leukemic HL-60 but not U937 cells. The apoptotic response to terpinen-4-ol in HL-60 cells was due to induction of cytochrome c release from mitochondria and cleavage of Bid protein after the stimulation of caspase-8. There was a slightly decrease of Bcl-xl protein level. The characteristic cell morphology of autophagic cell death was demonstrated with multiple autophagosomes in the cytoplasm. At the molecular level, the results from Western blot analysis showed that terpinen-4-ol significantly induced accumulation of LC3-I/II, ATG5 and Beclin-1, regulatory proteins required for autophagy in mammalian cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Terpinen-4-ol induced-human leukemic HL-60 cell death was via both autophagy and apoptosis.

Environmental concentrations of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced cellular stress and modulated antioxidant enzyme activity in the zebra mussel

Recent monitoring studies showed measurable levels of the 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in aquatic environments. However, no information is currently available on its potential hazard to aquatic non-target organisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential sub-lethal effects induced by 14-day exposures to low MDMA concentrations (0.05 and 0.5 μg/L) to zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) specimens through the application of a biomarker suite. The trypan blue exclusion method and the neutral red retention assay (NRRA) were used to assess MDMA cytotoxicity. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST), as well as the lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyl content (PCC), were measured as oxidative stress indexes. The single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, the DNA diffusion assay, and the micronucleus test (MN test) were applied to investigate DNA damage, while filtration rate was measured as physiological parameter. Despite significant decrease in lysosome membrane stability, hemocyte viability and imbalances in CAT and GST activities pointed out at the end of the exposure to 0.5 μg/L, no significant variations for the other end points were noticed at both the treatments, suggesting that environmentally relevant MDMA concentrations did not induce deleterious effects to the zebra mussel.

SiO2 Nanoparticule-induced size-dependent genotoxicity - an in vitro study using sister chromatid exchange, micronucleus and comet assay

Fine particles with a characteristic size smaller than 100 nm (i.e. nanoparticlesspread out in nowadays life. Silicon or Si, is one of the most abundant chemical elements found on the Earth. Its oxide forms, such as silicate (SiO4) and silicon dioxide, also known as silica (SiO2), are the main constituents of sand and quartz contributing to 90% of the Earth's crust. In this work, three genotoxicity systems "sister chromatid exchange, cytokinesis block micronucleus test and single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay" were employed to provide further insight into the cytotoxic and mutagenic/genotoxic potential of SiO2 nanoparticules (particle size 6 nm, 20 nm, 50 nm) in cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes as in vitro. It was observed that there is a significant decrease in Mitotic index (MI), Cytokinesis block proliferation index (CBPI), proliferation index (PRI) values expressed as Cell Kinetic parameters compared with negative control (p < 0.05). There is a statistically significant difference between negative control culture and culture exposed to SiO2 (6 nm, 20 nm, 50 nm) (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively). It is found that SiO2 nanoparticles at different size (6, 20, 50 nm) progressively increased the SCE frequency and DNA damage on the basis the AU values compared with negative control (p < 0.05). Results showed that the genotoxic/mutagenic and cytotoxic effects of SiO2 nanoparticules is dependent to particule size.

Anti-cancer Effect and Underlying Mechanism(s) of Kaempferol, a Phytoestrogen, on the Regulation of Apoptosis in Diverse Cancer Cell Models

Phytoestrogens exist in edible compounds commonly found in fruits or plants. For long times, phytoestrogens have been used for therapeutic treatments against human diseases, and they can be promising ingredients for future pharmacological industries. Kaempferol is a yellow compound found in grapes, broccoli and yellow fruits, which is one of flavonoid as phytoestrogens. Kaempferol has been suggested to have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. In past decades, many studies have been performed to examine anti-toxicological role(s) of kaempferol against human cancers. It has been shown that kaempferol may be involved in the regulations of cell cycle, metastasis, angiogenesis and apoptosis in various cancer cell types. Among them, there have been a few of the studies to examine a relationship between kaempferol and apoptosis. Thus, in this review, we highlight the effect(s) of kaempferol on the regulation of apoptosis in diverse cancer cell models. This could be a forecast in regard to use of kaempferol as promising treatment against human diseases.