Harmful Effects of Inorganic Mercury Exposure on Kidney Cells: Mitochondrial Dynamics Disorder and Excessive Oxidative Stress

Arsenic exposure induced renal fibrosis via regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and the NLRP3-TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway

Environmental arsenic exposure is one of the major global public health problems. Studies have shown that arsenic exposure can cause renal fibrosis, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Integrating the in vivo and in vitro models, this study investigated the potential molecular pathways for arsenic-induced renal fibrosis. In this study, SD rats were treated with 0, 5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L NaAsO2 for 8 weeks via drinking water, and HK2 cells were treated with different doses of NaAsO2 for 48 h. The in vivo results showed that arsenic content in the rats' kidneys increased as the dose increased. Body weight decreased and kidney coefficient increased at 100 mg/L. As a response to the elevated NaAsO2 dose, inflammatory cell infiltration, renal tubular injury, glomerular atrophy, tubulointerstitial hemorrhage, and fibrosis became more obvious indicated by HE and Masson staining. The kidney transcriptome profiles further supported the protein-protein interactions involved in NaAsO2-induced renal fibrosis. The in vivo results, in together with the in vitro experiments, have revealed that exposure to NaAsO2 disturbed mitochondrial dynamics, promoted mitophagy, activated inflammation and the TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway, and finally resulted in fibrosis. In summary, arsenic exposure contributed to renal fibrosis via regulating the mitochondrial dynamics and the NLRP3-TGF-β1/SMAD signaling axis. This study presented an adverse outcome pathway for the development of renal fibrosis due to arsenic exposure through drinking water.

Evidence that a Novel Chalcone Derivative, Compound 27, Acts on the Epithelium Via the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2-Keap1 Signaling Pathway, to Mitigate LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a highly heterogeneous clinical syndrome and an important cause of mortality in critically ill patients, with limited treatment options currently available. Chalcone, an essential secondary metabolite found in edible or medicinal plants, exhibits good antioxidant activity and simple structure for easy synthesis. In our study, we synthesized a novel chalcone derivative, compound 27 (C27). We hypothesized that C27 could be a potential treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Therefore, the protective effects of C27 on lung epithelial cells during ALI and the underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated. In vivo, Intratracheal instillation of LPS (10 mg/kg) was used to induce acute lung injury in mice. In vitro, the bronchial epithelial cell line (Beas-2b) was treated with 30 μM tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) to simulate oxidative stress. Our findings demonstrate that pretreatment with C27 reduces LPS-induced oxidative destruction and cellular apoptosis in lung tissues of mice. Furthermore, it significantly attenuates t-BHP-induced cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial damage, and apoptosis in vitro. Mechanistically, the signaling pathway involving Nrf2-Keap1 and the downstream antioxidative proteins were activated by C27 in vivo. Additionally, PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 abolished the effect of C27 in vitro, indicating that the protective effect of C27 is mediated via the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. Our study provides evidence that C27 protects against LPS-induced ALI by mitigating oxidative stress via activation of the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway. Therefore, we hypothesize that C27 represents a viable alternative for ALI therapy.

The active components and potential mechanisms of Wuji Wan in the treatment of ethanol-induced gastric ulcer: An integrated metabolomics, network pharmacology and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Wuji Wan (WJW) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that can be found in the "Prescriptions of Taiping Benevolent Dispensary" that has been employed in treating gastric discomfort, burning epigastric pain, and gastric reflux for hundreds of years and has shown promise for treating gastric ulcers (GUs). However, the active components and mechanism of action against GUs remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to explore the active components of WJW and elucidate the underlying mechanism involved in treating GUs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Initially, cell viability was measured by a cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay to evaluate the efficacy of WJW-containing serum in vitro. The gastric ulcer index, ulcer inhibition rate, hematoxylin and staining (H&E), and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of WJW in vivo. Subsequently, the levels of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress factors were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) on in vitro and in vivo samples. Additionally, UPLC-Q Exactive Plus Orbitrap HRMS was used to analyze the components that were absorbed into the blood of WJW and its metabolites. Network pharmacology and metabolomics were subsequently used to identify the targets and pathways. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT‒qPCR) and Western blotting were used to verify the mRNA and protein levels of the key targets and pathways. Finally, the active components were identified by molecular docking to verify the binding stability of the components and key targets.

RESULTS

WJW-containing serum ameliorated ethanol-induced damage in GES-1 cells and promoted cell healing. WJW-containing serum reduced IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, and LDH levels while increasing IL-10, SOD, and T-AOC levels in the cells. Moreover, WJW treatment resulted in decreased IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA levels and increased IL-10, SOD, PGE2, and NO levels in GUs rats. In addition, eight components of WJW were absorbed into the blood. The network pharmacology results revealed 192 common targets for blood entry components and GUs, and KEGG analysis revealed that apoptosis signaling pathways were the main pathways involved in WJW activity against GUs. Metabolomic screening was used to identify 13 differential metabolites. There were 23 common targets for blood entry components, GUs, and differential metabolites, with the key targets TNF (TNF-α), AKT1, PTGS2 (COX2) and MAPK1. WJW significantly inhibited the expression of Bax, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-9, cleaved Caspase-3, TNF-α, COX2, and p-p44/42 MAPK while promoting the expression of Bcl-2 and p-AKT1. Molecular docking revealed that the active components of WJW for the treatment of GUs are berberine, palmatine, coptisine, evodiamine, rutaecarpine, evocarpine, and paeoniflorin.

CONCLUSIONS

WJW treatment reduces inflammation and oxidative stress injury and inhibits apoptosis signaling pathways. The main active components are berberine, palmatine, coptisine, evodiamine, rutaecarpine, evocarpine, and paeoniflorin. In this paper, we provide a new strategy for exploring the active components of traditional Chinese medicine formulas for the treatment of diseases based on target mechanisms.

Resveratrol alleviates inorganic arsenic-induced ferroptosis in chicken brain via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a well-recognized environmental pollutant that induces severe brain injury in humans and animals. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ferroptotic effects of resveratrol (Res) were demonstrated in multiple animal experiments. In order to investigate the protective effect of Res on iAs-induced chicken brain injury, the 40 chickens (19-d-old, female) brain injury model was established by oral administration of iAs (30 mg/L NaAsO2) for 6 weeks. All chickens had free access to both food and water during the experiment. The biochemical indices, hematoxylin-eosin staining, and related protein levels of oxidative stress, inflammation and ferroptosis were then determined. Our results indicated that Res (1000 mg/kg) alleviated the iAs-induced brain injury after 6 weeks of oral administration, primarily by reducing the interleukin-1β mRNA expression and nuclear factor kappa B and malondialdehyde level, and increasing the antioxidant enzyme activity and the mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Taken together, our study demonstrates that Res effectively inhibits iAs-induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis by mediating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating iAs-induced brain injury in chickens. This is the first time that the amelioration effects of Res on the iAs-induced brain have been investigated from multiple perspectives.

Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide alleviates thiacloprid-induced kidney injury in quails via activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Thiacloprid (THI) is a neonicotinoid insecticide, and its wide-ranging use has contributed to severe environmental and health problems. Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP) possesses multiple biological activities such as antioxidant and antiapoptosis effect. Although present research has shown that THI causes kidney injury, the exact molecular mechanism and treatment of THI-induced kidney injury remain unclear. The study aimed to investigate if DOP could alleviate THI-induced kidney injury and identify the potential molecular mechanism in quails. In this study, Japanese quails received DOP (200 mg/kg) daily with or without THI (4 mg/kg) exposure for 42 days. Our results showed that DOP improved hematological changes, biochemical indexes, and nephric histopathological changes induced by THI. Meanwhile, THI exposure caused oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. Furthermore, THI and DOP cotreatment significantly activated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) pathway, restored antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced apoptosis and autophagy in quail kidneys. In summary, our study demonstrated that DOP mitigated THI-mediated kidney injury was associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in quails.

The Effect of Thymoquinone on the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB Axis Against Cisplatin-İnduced Testicular Tissue Damage

One of the adverse effects of the antineoplastic drug cisplatin (CS) is damage to testicular tissue. This study aimed to examine the potential therapeutic effect of thymoquinone (TQ), a strong antioxidant, against testicular damage caused by CS. In the experiment, 28 rats were used, and the rats were randomly divided into four groups: control (n = 7), CS (n = 7), CS + TQ (n = 7), and TQ (n = 7). The experiment was called off after all treatments were finished on day 15. Blood serum and testicular tissues were utilized for biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical, mRNA expression, and gene protein investigations. The testosterone level decreased and oxidative stress, histopathological damage, dysregulation in mitochondrial dynamics, inflammation and apoptotic cells increased in testicular tissue due to CS administration. TQ supplementation showed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects in response to CS-induced testicular damage. In addition, TQ contributed to the reduction of CS-induced toxic effects by regulating the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB pathway. TQ supplementation may be a potential therapeutic strategy against CS-induced testicular damage by regulating the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB axis, inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

A Fluorescent Probe for Hg2+ Specific Recognition Based on Xanthene and its Application in Food Detection and Cell Imaging

The mercury-loving unit aminothiourea was introduced into the xanthene fluorophore to synthesized the probe molecule NXH. NXH has a specific response to Hg2+, and with the addition of (0 ~ 50 µM) Hg2+, the fluorescence intensity of the probe solution was quenched from 2352 a.u. to about 308 a.u. NXH exhibited excellent detection performance of high sensitivity (LOD = 96.3 nM), real-time response (105 s), wide pH range (2.1 ~ 9.3), and strong anti-interference ability for Hg2+. At the same time, NXH has wide range of applications for Hg2+ detection, which can fluorescence imaging of Hg2+ in Hela cells and tea samples, and can also be made into Hg2+ detection test paper.

Environmental pollutants and phosphoinositide signaling in autoimmunity

Environmental pollution stands as one of the most critical challenges affecting human health, with an estimated mortality rate linked to pollution-induced non-communicable diseases projected to range from 20% to 25%. These pollutants not only disrupt immune responses but can also trigger immunotoxicity. Phosphoinositide signaling, a pivotal regulator of immune responses, plays a central role in the development of autoimmune diseases and exhibits high sensitivity to environmental stressors. Among these stressors, environmental pollutants have become increasingly prevalent in our society, contributing to the initiation and exacerbation of autoimmune conditions. In this review, we summarize the intricate interplay between phosphoinositide signaling and autoimmune diseases within the context of environmental pollutants and contaminants. We provide an up-to-date overview of stress-induced phosphoinositide signaling, discuss 14 selected examples categorized into three groups of environmental pollutants and their connections to immune diseases, and shed light on the associated phosphoinositide signaling pathways. Through these discussions, this review advances our understanding of how phosphoinositide signaling influences the coordinated immune response to environmental stressors at a biological level. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into potential research directions and therapeutic targets aimed at mitigating the impact of environmental pollutants on the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. SYNOPSIS: Phosphoinositide signaling at the intersection of environmental pollutants and autoimmunity provides novel insights for managing autoimmune diseases aggravated by pollutants.

Chronic arsenic exposure-provoked biotoxicity involved in liver-microbiota-gut axis disruption in chickens based on multi-omics technologies

INTRODUCTION

Arsenic has been ranked as the most hazardous substance by the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Environmental arsenic exposure-evoked health risks have become a vital public health concern worldwide owing to the widespread existence of arsenic. Multi-omics is a revolutionary technique to data analysis providing an integrated view of bioinformation for comprehensively and systematically understanding the elaborate mechanism of diseases.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at uncovering the potential contribution of liver-microbiota-gut axis in chronic inorganic arsenic exposure-triggered biotoxicity in chickens based on multi-omics technologies.

METHODS

Forty Hy-Line W-80 laying hens were chronically exposed to sodium arsenite with a dose-dependent manner (administered with drinking water containing 10, 20, or 30 mg/L arsenic, respectively) for 42 d, followed by transcriptomics, serum non-targeted metabolome, and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing accordingly.

RESULTS

Arsenic intervention induced a serious of chicken liver dysfunction, especially severe liver fibrosis, simultaneously altered ileal microbiota populations, impaired chicken intestinal barrier, further drove enterogenous lipopolysaccharides translocation via portal vein circulation aggravating liver damage. Furtherly, the injured liver disturbed bile acids (BAs) homoeostasis through strongly up-regulating the BAs synthesis key rate-limiting enzyme CYP7A1, inducing excessive serum total BAs accumulation, accompanied by the massive synthesis of primary BA-chenodeoxycholic acid. Moreover, the concentrations of secondary BAs-ursodeoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid were markedly repressed, which might involve in the repressed dehydroxylation of Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families. Abnormal BAs metabolism in turn promoted intestinal injury, ultimately perpetuating pernicious circle in chickens. Notably, obvious depletion in the abundance of four profitable microbiota, Christensenellaceae, Ruminococcaceae, Muribaculaceae, and Faecalibacterium, were correlated tightly with this hepato-intestinal circulation process in chickens exposed to arsenic.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that chronic inorganic arsenic exposure evokes liver-microbiota-gut axis disruption in chickens and establishes a scientific basis for evaluating health risk induced by environmental pollutant arsenic.

Carvacrol Reduces Mercuric Chloride-Induced Testicular Toxicity by Regulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, Autophagy, and Histopathological Changes

Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) is a heavy metal that is toxic to the human body. Carvacrol (CAR) is a flavonoid found naturally in plants and has many biological and pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of CAR in HgCl2-induced testicular tissue damage. HgCl2 was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 1.23 mg/kg body weight alone or in combination with orally administered CAR (25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg body weight) for 7 days. Biochemical and histological methods were used to investigate oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy pathways in testicular tissue. CAR treatment increased HgCl2-induced decreased antioxidant enzyme (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activities and GSH levels. In addition, CAR reduced MDA levels, a marker of lipid peroxidation. CAR decreased the levels of inflammatory mediators NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2, iNOS, MAPK14, MAPK15, and JNK. The increases in apoptotic Bax and Caspase-3 with HgCl2 exposure decreased with CAR, while the decreased antiapoptotic Bcl-2 level increased. CAR reduced HgCl2-induced autophagy damage by increasing Beclin-1, LC3A, and LC3B levels. Overall, the data from this study suggested that testicular tissue damage associated with HgCl2 toxicity can be mitigated by CAR administration.

Simultaneous detection and removal of mercury (II) using multifunctional fluorescent materials

Environmental problems caused by mercury ions are increasing due to growing industrialization, poor enforcement, and inefficient pollutant treatment. Therefore, detecting and removing mercury from the ecological chain is of utmost significance. Currently, a wide range of small molecules and nanomaterials have made remarkable progress in the detection, detoxification, adsorption, and removal of mercury. In this review, we summarized the recent advances in the design and construction of multifunctional materials, detailed their sensing and removing mechanisms, and discussed with emphasis the advantages and disadvantages of different types of sensors. Finally, we elucidated the problems and challenges of current multifunctional materials and further pointed out the direction for the future development of related materials. This review is expected to provide a guideline for researchers to establish a robust strategy for the detection and removal of mercury ionsin the environment.

Oral delivery of nerolidol alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced renal inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis via modulation of NF-κB/cleaved caspase-3/TGF-β signaling molecules

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the most extensively used antineoplastic drug, but the nephrotoxicity caused by this drug is a major limiting factor for its use. Nerolidol (NERO) is a natural bioactive compound with diverse pharmacological actions. In Vitro and in vivo study was performed using HK-2 renal cells and Swiss Albino mice. Cell lines and animals were treated with NERO 25 and 50 µM + 30 µM CP (in vitro), 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. NERO from day 1 to day 15 + 200 mg/kg, i.p. CP on day 17 as single intraperitoneal injection (in vivo). The makers of oxidative stress, renal-specific injury markers, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and histopathological changes were studied. The study's outcome showed a significant reduction in the level of malonaldehyde and interleukin-6 (p < 0.01), tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β (p < 0.001), and an increase in the superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and interleukin-10 level (p < 0.01), in the in vivo study when treated with NERO 400 and compared with CP 200. In Vitro study showed reduced expression of nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells, cleaved caspase-3, kidney injury molecule-1 and transforming growth factor-β-1 (p < 0.001), when treated with NERO 50 µM whereas NERO 25 µM only reduced the level of cleaved caspase-3 (p < 0.05) when compared with 30 µM. NERO 400 also reduced uric acid (p < 0.05), urea (p < 0.01), blood urea nitrogen, and serum creatinine levels (p < 0.001) and increased the level of blood-urea-nitrogen/creatinine ratio (p < 0.001). Additionally, the level of fibrosis-specific markers such as transforming growth factor-β1, hyaluronic acid (p < 0.01), 4-hydroxyproline, a collagen-rich area in Masson's' trichome stain, and Smad3 expression was also significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the outcome of multiple renal staining showed structural reversal aberrations, reduction of the thick basement membrane, and glycogen level toward normal when treated with NERO 400. Thus, the study showed a novel mechanistic modality of NERO against cyclophosphamide-induced renal toxicity. The outcome of this study can be considered a step closer to the development of an adjuvant to mitigate cyclophosphamide-induced renal toxicity among patients treated with cyclophosphamide.

Pollutants in aquatic system: a frontier perspective of emerging threat and strategies to solve the crisis for safe drinking water

Water is an indispensable natural resource and is the most vital substance for the existence of life on earth. However, due to anthropogenic activities, it is being polluted at an alarming rate which has led to serious concern about water shortage across the world. Moreover, toxic contaminants released into water bodies from various industrial and domestic activities negatively affect aquatic and terrestrial organisms and cause serious diseases such as cancer, renal problems, gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and nausea in humans. Therefore, water treatments that can eliminate toxins are very crucial. Unfortunately, pollution treatment remains a difficulty when four broad considerations are taken into account: effectiveness, reusability, environmental friendliness, and affordability. In this situation, protecting water from contamination or creating affordable remedial techniques has become a serious issue. Although traditional wastewater treatment technologies have existed since antiquity, they are both expensive and inefficient. Nowadays, advanced sustainable technical approaches are being created to replace traditional wastewater treatment processes. The present study reviews the sources, toxicity, and possible remediation techniques of the water contaminants.

Salidroside ameliorates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury through the inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated ferroptosis by activating the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose has long been considered a major cause of drug-induced liver injury. Ferroptosis is a type of programmed cell death mediated by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a systemic response triggered by the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the ER. Ferroptosis and ER stress have been proven to contribute to the progression of APAP-induced acute liver injury (ALI). It was reported that salidroside protects against APAP-induced ALI, but the potential mechanism remain unknown. In this study, male C57BL/6 J mice were intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected APAP (500 mg/kg) to induce an ALI model. Salidroside was i.p. injected at a dose of 100 mg/kg 2 h prior to APAP administration. Mice were sacrificed 12 h after APAP injection and the liver and serum of the mice were obtained for histological and biochemistry analysis. AML12 cells were used in in vitro assays. The results indicated that salidroside mitigated glutathione degradation via inhibiting cation transport regulator homolog 1 (CHAC1) to attenuate ferroptosis, and simultaneously suppressing PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 axis-mediated ER stress, thus alleviating APAP-induced ALI. However, PERK activator CCT020312 and overexpression of ATF4 inhibited the protective function of salidroside on CHAC1-mediated ferroptosis. Besides this, activation of the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway by salidroside was demonstrated to have a protective effect against APAP-induced ALI. Interestingly, selective inhibition of SIRT1 ameliorated the protective effects of salidroside on ER stress and ferroptosis. Overall, salidroside plays a significant part in the mitigation of APAP-induced ALI by activating the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling to inhibit ER stress-mediated ferroptosis in the ATF4-CHAC1 axis.

Ameliorative Effects of Luteolin and Activated Charcoal on Growth Performance, Immunity Function, and Antioxidant Capacity in Broiler Chickens Exposed to Deoxynivalenol

Deoxynivalenol (DON, Vomitoxin) is a threatening mycotoxin that mainly produces oxidative stress and leads to hepatotoxicity in poultry. Antioxidant dietary supplements dramatically boost immunity, safeguarding animals from DON poisoning. Luteolin (LUT) is an active plant-derived compound that poses influential antioxidants. This study explored the effectiveness of LUT in combination with activated charcoal (AC) in detoxifying DON in broilers. The 180 one-day broiler chickens were allocated into five different groups having six replicates in each group, provided with ad libitum feed during the trial period (28 days) as follows: in the control group, basal diet (feed with no supplementation of LUT, AC or DON); in group 2, a basal diet added with 10 mg/kg DON from contaminated culture (DON); in group 3, a basal diet augmented by 350 mg/kg LUT and DON 10 mg/kg (DON + LUT); in group 4, a basal diet supplemented by DON 10 mg/kg + AC 200 mg/kg (DON + AC); and in group 5, a basal diet supplemented by 10 mg/kg DON + 350 mg/kg LUT + 200 mg/kg AC (DON + LUT + AC). Concerning the control group, the DON-treated broilers demonstrated a significant decrease in growth performance (p < 0.05) and serum immunoglobulin (p < 0.05) contents, negatively changing the serum biochemical contents and enzymatic activities and an increase in histopathological liver lesions. Furthermore, DON substantially increased (p < 0.05) malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreased total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels in the serum and liver. The intake of AC and LUT to the DON-contaminated diet decreased DON residue in the liver and potentially reduced the adverse effects of DON. Considering the results, supplementation of LUT with mycotoxin adsorbent has protective effects against mycotoxicosis caused by DON. It could be helpful for the development of novel treatments to combat liver diseases in poultry birds. Our findings may provide important information for applying LUT and AC in poultry production.

Recent advances in fluorescent materials for mercury(ii) ion detection

Invading mercury would cause many serious health hazards such as kidney damage, genetic freak, and nerve injury to human body. Thus, developing highly efficient and convenient mercury detection methods is of great significance for environmental governance and protection of public health. Motivated by this problem, various testing technologies for detecting trace mercury in the environment, food, medicines or daily chemicals have been developed. Among them, the fluorescence sensing technology is a sensitive and efficient detection method for detecting Hg2+ ions due to its simple operation, rapid response and economic value. This review aims to discuss the recent advances in fluorescent materials for Hg2+ ion detection. We reviewed the Hg2+ sensing materials and divided them into seven categories according to the sensing mechanism: static quenching, photoinduced electron transfer, intramolecular charge transfer, aggregation-induced emission, metallophilic interaction, mercury-induced reactions and ligand-to-metal energy transfer. The challenges and prospects of fluorescent Hg2+ ion probes are briefly presented. We hope that this review can provide some new insights and guidance for the design and development of novel fluorescent Hg2+ ion probes to promote their applications.

Enhanced mercury phytoremediation by Pseudomonodictys pantanalensis sp. nov. A73 and Westerdykella aquatica P71

Mercury is a non-essential and toxic metal that induces toxicity in most organisms, but endophytic fungi can develop survival strategies to tolerate and respond to metal contaminants and other environmental stressors. The present study demonstrated the potential of mercury-resistant endophytic fungi in phytoremediation. We examined the functional traits involved in plant growth promotion, phytotoxicity mitigation, and mercury phytoremediation in seven fungi strains. The endophytic isolates synthesized the phytohormone indole-3-acetic acid, secreted siderophores, and solubilized phosphate in vitro. Inoculation of maize (Zea mays) plants with endophytes increased plant growth attributes by up to 76.25%. The endophytic fungi stimulated mercury uptake from the substrate and promoted its accumulation in plant tissues (t test, p < 0.05), preferentially in the roots, which thereby mitigated the impacts of metal phytotoxicity. Westerdykella aquatica P71 and the newly identified species Pseudomonodictys pantanalensis nov. A73 were the isolates that presented the best phytoremediation potential. Assembling and annotation of P. pantanalensis A73 and W. aquatica P71 genomes resulted in genome sizes of 45.7 and 31.8 Mb that encoded 17,774 and 11,240 protein-coding genes, respectively. Some clusters of genes detected were involved in the synthesis of secondary metabolites such as dimethylcoprogen (NRPS) and melanin (T1PKS), which are metal chelators with antioxidant activity; mercury resistance (merA and merR1); oxidative stress (PRX1 and TRX1); and plant growth promotion (trpS and iscU). Therefore, both fungi species are potential tools for the bioremediation of mercury-contaminated soils due to their ability to reduce phytotoxicity and assist phytoremediation.

Sulforaphane alleviates lung ischemia‑reperfusion injury through activating Nrf‑2/HO‑1 signaling

Oxidative stress and inflammation are both involved in the pathogenesis of lung ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural product with cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The present study hypothesized that SFN may protect against lung I/R injury via the regulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory-related pathways. A rat model of lung I/R injury was established, and rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: Sham group, I/R group, and SFN group. It was shown that SFN protected against a pathological inflammatory response via inhibition of neutrophil accumulation and in the reduction of the serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. SFN treatment also significantly inhibited lung reactive oxygen species production, decreased the levels of 8-OH-dG and malondialdehyde, and reversed the decrease in the antioxidant activities of the enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in the lungs of the I/R treated rats. In addition, SFN ameliorated I/R-induced lung apoptosis in rats by suppressing Bax and cleaved caspase-3 levels and increased Bcl-2 expression. Furthermore, SFN treatment activated an Nrf2-related antioxidant pathway, as indicated by the increased nuclear transfer of Nrf2 and the downstream HO-1 and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase-1. In conclusion, these findings suggested that SFN protected against I/R-induced lung lesions in rats via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and the accompanied anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.

Antioxidant Supplementation Alleviates Mercury-Induced Cytotoxicity and Restores the Implantation-Related Functions of Primary Human Endometrial Cells

Mercury (Hg) cytotoxicity, which is largely mediated through oxidative stress (OS), can be relieved with antioxidants. Thus, we aimed to study the effects of Hg alone or in combination with 5 nM N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) on the primary endometrial cells' viability and function. Primary human endometrial epithelial cells (hEnEC) and stromal cells (hEnSC) were isolated from 44 endometrial biopsies obtained from healthy donors. The viability of treated endometrial and JEG-3 trophoblast cells was evaluated via tetrazolium salt metabolism. Cell death and DNA integrity were quantified following annexin V and TUNEL staining, while the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were quantified following DCFDA staining. Decidualization was assessed through secreted prolactin and the insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) in cultured media. JEG-3 spheroids were co-cultured with the hEnEC and decidual hEnSC to assess trophoblast adhesion and outgrowth on the decidual stroma, respectively. Hg compromised cell viability and amplified ROS production in trophoblast and endometrial cells and exacerbated cell death and DNA damage in trophoblast cells, impairing trophoblast adhesion and outgrowth. NAC supplementation significantly restored cell viability, trophoblast adhesion, and outgrowth. As these effects were accompanied by the significant decline in ROS production, our findings originally describe how implantation-related endometrial cell functions are restored in Hg-treated primary human endometrial co-cultures by antioxidant supplementation.

The role of mitochondrial dynamics imbalance in hexavalent chromium-induced apoptosis and autophagy in rat testis

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant that can cause reproductive toxicity. However, the exact mechanism of Cr(VI)-induced testis toxicity remains largely elusive. This study aims to explore the possible molecular mechanism of Cr(VI)-provoked testicular toxicity. Male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally injected with 0, 2, 4, or 6 mg/kg body weight/day of potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), respectively, for 5 weeks. The results revealed that Cr(VI)-treated rat testis presented varying degrees of damage in a dose-dependent manner. Concretely, Cr(VI) administration suppressed Sirtuin 1/Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α pathway and led to mitochondrial dynamics disorder, along with the elevation of mitochondrial division and the repression of mitochondrial fusion. Meanwhile, the downstream effector of Sirt1, nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), was downregulated, and correspondingly exacerbated oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dynamics disorder and Nrf2 inhibition collectively contribute to abnormal mitochondrial dynamics in testis, which further promotes apoptosis and autophagy, evidenced by dose-dependently increasing the protein levels and gene expressions of apoptosis-related (including Bcl-2-associated X protein, cytochrome c, and cleaved-caspase 3) and autophagy-related (Beclin-1, ATG4B, and ATG5). Collectively, our results demonstrate that Cr(VI) exposure induced testis apoptosis and autophagy by disrupting the balance of mitochondrial dynamics and the oxidation-reduction process in rats.

Effects of thiacloprid exposure on microbiota-gut-liver axis: Multiomics mechanistic analysis in Japanese quails

Neonicotinoid insecticides (NNIs) are the most widely used class of pesticides globally. However, NNIs may cause adverse health effects, including chronic liver disease, and perturbation of the gut microbiota. Thiacloprid (THI) is one of the NNIs widely used in agriculture. Therefore, it is essential to elucidate effects of THI on the microbiota-gut-liver axis to assess the risk of chronic liver disease following exposure to NNIs. This study aimed at investigating whether THI exposure promoted liver injury by altering the gut microbiota and related metabolites. In this study, healthy male quails were exposed to 2 or 4 mg/kg THI or 0.75 % (w/v) saline once daily for 6 weeks, respectively. Metabolomics, 16S rRNA sequencing, and transcriptomic methods were performed to analyze the toxic mechanisms of THI in Japanese quails. We found that THI evoked damage and disruption to intestinal barrier function, leading to increased harmful substances such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and phenylacetic acid entering the liver. Besides, our results showed significantly altered hepatic bile acid and cholesterol metabolism in THI-exposed quails, with abnormal liver lipid metabolism, showing severe liver injury, fibrosis, and steatosis compared with the control quails. In conclusion, THI exposure aggravates liver injury via microbiota-gut-liver axis.

Cytotoxicity of nitrogenous disinfection byproducts: A combined experimental and computational study

Nitrogenous disinfection byproducts (N-DBPs), such as halocetamides (HAcAms), haloacetonitriles (HANs) and halonitromethanes (HNMs), are emerging DBPs in drinking water. They are more toxic than currently regulated DBPs, attracting more attention to their toxic effects and mechanism. In this study, human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293T cells were employed to explore the cytotoxicity of 29 N-DBPs. The influence of molecular structures and different halogenations on cytotoxicity has been comparatively analyzed. As toxicity is the downstream of chemico-biological interactions, the thiol reactivity of 29 N-DBPs has thus been evaluated by using glutathione (GSH) as a model nucleophile, which is the most prevalent cellular thiol and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells by detoxifying electrophilic compounds. Results show that the cytotoxicity of N-DBPs follows by the order of HAcAms > HANs > HNMs, which is different from their reactivity with GSH (the median of k_GSH ranks as HNMs > HAcAms > HANs). However, a significant correlation (p < 0.001) between log k_GSH and log IC₅₀ (concentration causing 50% inhibition) has been respectively observed for HAcAms and HANs subset and HNMs subset, indicating such chemical reaction is a probable trigger for these DBPs to result in cytotoxicity. Finally, two separate quantitative structure - activity relationship (QSAR) models based on HANs & HAcAms subset and HNMs subset have been developed for estimating IC₅₀ values. The good statistical performance makes the models possible to quickly and accurately predict IC₅₀ values of other N-DBPs, providing basic data for their health risk assessment and greatly reducing in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Betanin ameliorates fipronil-induced nephrotoxicity via activation of Nrf2-HO-1/NQO-1 pathway in albino rat model

Fipronil (FPN) is phenylpyrazole insecticide extensively used to control a wide variety of pests. Betanin (BET) is a natural colorant with promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of BET on FPN induced nephrotoxicity in adult male albino rats. Forty rats were assigned into 4 equal groups; Group I (Control); Group II (BET) received 20 mg/kg b.wt/day; Group III (FPN) received 4.8 mg/kg b.wt/day; and Group IV (BET/FPN). All treatments were given orally for 90 days. At the end of experiment, blood samples were collected for analysis of serum urea and creatinine. Kidneys were harvested for determination of kidney injury molecule-1(KIM-1) level; gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1); oxidative stress biomarkers including malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl content (PCC), catalase activity (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH). Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical investigation of Nrf2, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and caspase-3 were also undertaken. The results revealed kidney dysfunction, downregulation of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 genes, redox imbalance, structural damage, decreased Nrf2 and increased NF-κB immune-expression, in addition to strong caspase-3 immunoreactivity in FPN-treated group. In the combined group, BET co-administration resulted in functional and structural amelioration, up-regulation of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 genes, mitigation of redox imbalance, and strong anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects. In conclusion, BET via activation of Nrf2-HO-1/NQO-1 pathway, exhibits beneficial antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects against FPN-induced nephrotoxicity.

Molecular Mechanisms of Cellular Injury and Role of Toxic Heavy Metals in Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disease that affects millions of adults every year. Major risk factors include diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, which affect millions of adults worldwide. CKD is characterized by cellular injury followed by permanent loss of functional nephrons. As injured cells die and nephrons become sclerotic, remaining healthy nephrons attempt to compensate by undergoing various structural, molecular, and functional changes. While these changes are designed to maintain appropriate renal function, they may lead to additional cellular injury and progression of disease. As CKD progresses and filtration decreases, the ability to eliminate metabolic wastes and environmental toxicants declines. The inability to eliminate environmental toxicants such as arsenic, cadmium, and mercury may contribute to cellular injury and enhance the progression of CKD. The present review describes major molecular alterations that contribute to the pathogenesis of CKD and the effects of arsenic, cadmium, and mercury on the progression of CKD.

The heart as a target for deltamethrin toxicity: Inhibition of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway induces oxidative stress and results in inflammation and apoptosis

As a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide, deltamethrin (DLM) is widely employed in veterinary medicine and farming, and DLM-triggered oxidative stress largely causes serious harm to the organism. It is well-known that nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1), a pivotal endogenous anti-oxidative pathway, acts on inhibiting oxidative stress-induced cell injury under the activated state. The purpose of this research was to observe the impact and molecular mechanism of DLM on inflammation and apoptosis in quail cardiomyocytes based on the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling route. In this research, quails were established as a cardiac injury model through gastric infusion of various doses of DLM (0, 15, 30, and 45 mg/kg b. w.) for 12 weeks. Our results showed that DLM could induced cardiomyocyte injury in a dose-dependent manner though weakening antioxidant defense via down-regulating Nrf2 and its downstream protein HO-1. Furthermore, DLM stimulation induced apoptosis in quail heart by decreasing the protein expressions of B-cell lymphoma-extra large and B-cell lymphoma gene 2 (Bcl-2), as well as increasing P53, caspase 3, and Bcl-2-associated X protein levels. Meanwhile, relative levels of nuclear factor-kappa B and interleukin-1β in quail hearts were up-regulated under DLM intervention progressively. Collectively, our study demonstrates that chronic exposure to DLM can induce quail cardiomyocyte inflammation and apoptosis by mediating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway-related oxidative stress.

Precursor characteristics of mono-HAAs during chlorination and cytotoxicity of mono-HAAs on HEK-293T cells

Monohaloacetic acids (mono-HAAs), a class of disinfection by-products widely occurred in drinking water, receives significant attention due to their extremely high toxicity. Many studies on the biological toxicity of mono-HAAs have been reported, yet the toxic effects of mono-HAAs on human renal cells (kidney is one of the target organs for disinfection by-products) has not been involved. Studies on organic precursors for mono-HAAs formation were also very limited due to their lower levels as compared to di-HAAs and tri-HAAs. Based on this, the formation of mono-HAAs after chlorination of some typical source water samples and their relationship with water quality parameters were investigated. Meanwhile, the cytotoxicity of monochloroacetic acid (MCAA), monobromoacetic acid (MBAA), and monoiodoacetic acid (MIAA) were tested using human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293 T cells). The results showed that the levels of mono-HAAs formed during chlorination of source water samples were between 0.44 and 0.87 μg/L. Formation of MBAA positively (p < 0.05) correlated with bromide ion and dissolved organic carbon, but negatively (p < 0.01) correlated with SUVA₂₅₄ (specific UV absorbance at 254 nm), while formation of MCAA was only positively (p < 0.05) related with SUVA₂₅₄. These results suggested that although MCAA and MBAA both belong to the mono-HAAs, the characteristics of their organic precursors differ significantly. MCAA precursors have high aromaticity and are more hydrophobic, yet MBAA precursors have low aromaticity and are more hydrophilic. The half-lethal concentrations (LC₅₀) of MCAA, MBAA, and MIAA on HEK293T cells were 1196-1211 μM, 16.07-18.96 μM, and 6.08-6.17 μM, respectively. An in-depth analysis showed that the cytotoxicity of mono-HAAs on HEK 293 T cells could not be explained by the parameters concerning cellular uptake (e.g., logP and pKa), but the S_N2 reaction of C-X bond with cellular molecules (e.g., glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, etc) may be the relevant cause for the cytotoxicity of mono-HAAs on HEK 293 T cells.

Taurine Ameliorates Iron Overload-Induced Hepatocyte Injury via the Bcl-2/VDAC1-Mediated Mitochondrial Apoptosis Pathway

Iron overload can induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst and liver damage. Taurine can reduce ROS production and ameliorate liver injury caused by iron overload; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. Herein, L02 cells treated with 120 μM iron dextran for 48 h showed marked oxidative stress damage and significantly increased apoptosis. Taurine protected hepatocytes by stabilizing mitochondrial membranes and resisting oxidative stress damage caused by iron overload. However, transfection with siRNA Bcl-2 virus abrogated the observed protective effects. Following treatment with taurine, B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) could inhibit the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), subsequently stabilizing the mitochondrial membrane potential by interacting with voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) of mPTP. The present study is the first to clarify the mechanism underlying taurine-afforded hepatocyte protection against iron overload-induced oxidative stress via Bcl-2-mediated inhibition of mPTP opening and the antiapoptotic pathway.

Magnesium Lithospermate B Protects Against Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury via Alleviating Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Activation of the GPX4/TLR4 Signaling Pathway Participates in the Alleviation of Selenium Yeast on Deltamethrin-Provoked Cerebrum Injury in Quails

Deltamethrin (DLM) is a member of pyrethroid pesticide widely applied for agriculture and aquaculture, and its residue in the environment seriously threatens the bio-safety. The cerebrum might be vulnerable to pesticide-triggered oxidative stress. However, there is no specific antidote for treating DLM-triggered cerebral injury. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element functionally forming selenoprotein glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in antioxidant defense. Se yeast (SY) is a common and effective organic form of Se supplement with high selenomethionine content. Accordingly, this study focused on investigating the therapeutic potential of SY on DLM-induced cerebral injury in quails after chronically exposing to DLM and exploring the underlying mechanisms. Quails were treated with/without SY (0.4 mg kg^-1 SY added in standard diet) in the presence/absence of DLM (45 mg kg^-1 body weight intragastrically) for 12 weeks. The results showed SY supplementation ameliorated DLM-induced cerebral toxicity. Concretely, SY elevated the content of Se and increased GPX4 level in DLM-treated quail cerebrum. Furthermore, SY enhanced antioxidant defense system by upregulating nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) associated members. Inversely, SY diminished the changes of apoptosis- and inflammation-associated proteins and genes including toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Collectively, our results suggest that dietary SY protects against DLM-induced cerebral toxicity in quails via positively regulating the GPX4/TLR4 signaling pathway. GPX4 may be a potential therapeutic target for insecticide-induced biotoxicity.

Luteolin Protects Chondrocytes from H2O2-Induced Oxidative Injury and Attenuates Osteoarthritis Progression by Activating AMPK-Nrf2 Signaling

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease featured by cartilage erosion and inflammation. Luteolin, a member of the flavonoid family, has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities. However, the potential biological effects and underlying mechanism of luteolin on chondrocytes and OA progression remain largely elusive. In this study, the potential effect and mechanism of luteolin on OA were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Our data revealed that luteolin inhibited H₂O₂-induced cell death, apoptosis, oxidative stress, programmed necrosis, and inflammatory mediator production in primary murine chondrocytes. In addition, luteolin could activate the AMPK and Nrf2 pathways, and AMPK serves as a positive upstream regulator of Nrf2. In vivo results demonstrated the therapeutic effects of luteolin on OA in the DMM mouse model. Collectively, our findings showed that luteolin might serve as a novel and effective treatment for OA and provided a new research direction for clinical OA therapies.

ox-LDL-Induced Endothelial Progenitor Cell Oxidative Stress via p38/Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway

Background

Nrf2 which was recently reported to regulate the antioxidant genes and cellular redox regulators was highly expressed in EPCs. However, its role in ox-LDL-induced EPC oxidative stress and apoptosis has not been fully illustrated.

Methods

EPCs isolated from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with different concentrations of ox-LDL, Keap1 siRNA, and a specific p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 and then used to assay the cytoplasmic Nrf2, nuclear Nrf2, NAD(P) H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and Bax/Bcl-2 levels with Western blot, NQO1 mRNA levels with RT-PCR, ROS levels with H2DCF-DA, loss/disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential with JC-1, apoptosis with Annexin V and PI, migration with transwell chambers, and tube formation with Matrigel.

Results

ox-LDL decreased the nuclear Nrf2/Histone H3 to cytoplasmic Nrf2/GAPDH ratio, NQO1 mRNA, and protein levels. ox-LDL enhanced ROS production, induced the loss of membrane potential, and increased the cell shrinkage, pyknotic nuclei, and apoptosis of EPCs. Keap1 siRNA increased Nrf2 nuclear translocation, NQO1 mRNA transcription, and protein expression and prevented ROS generation and formation of JC-1 monomers. ox-LDL increased the activation of p38. SB203580 significantly eliminated ox-LDL induced inhibition of Nrf2 nuclear translocation, depression of NQO1 mRNA transcription, generation of ROS, and formation of JC-1 monomers in EPCs. Keap1 siRNA decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio which was increased by ox-LDL in EPCs. ox-LDL decreased EPC migration and tube formation. Keap1 siRNA preserved the migration and tube formation of EPCs.

Conclusion

ox-LDL activated EPCs p38/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway and induced oxidative stress, dysfunction, and apoptosis of EPCs.

Protective effect of baicalin against arsenic trioxide-induced acute hepatic injury in mice through JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Baicalin (BA) is a kind of flavonoid that is isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which has been verified to have hepatoprotective effects in some diseases. However, the role of BA in acute hepatic injury induced by arsenic trioxide (ATO) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective action of BA on acute hepatic injury induced by ATO and to probe its possible mechanism. Mice were pretreated with BA (50, 100 mg/kg) by gavage. After 7 h, ATO (7.5 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally to induce liver injury. After 7 days of treatment, serum and hepatic specimens were collected and assayed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of BA. Pathological sections and the liver function index indicated that ATO caused significant liver injury. The fluorescence of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress indicators showed that ATO also increased oxidative stress. The inflammatory markers in ATO-induced mice also increased significantly. Staining of the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling and apoptotic factor assay showed that apoptosis increased. However, with BA pretreatment, these changes were significantly weakened. In addition, BA treatment promoted the expression of proteins related to the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. The results suggest that BA can ameliorate acute ATO-induced hepatic injury in mice, which is related to the inhibition of oxidative stress, thereby reducing inflammation and apoptosis. The mechanism of this protection is potentially related to the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Peptides Isolated from Yak Milk Residue Exert Antioxidant Effects through Nrf2 Signal Pathway

Food-derived bioactive peptides are considered as the important sources of natural bioactive ingredients. Approximately 3094 peptides were identified by nESI-LC–MS/MS in the hydrolyzed yak milk residue. Peptide KALNEINQF (T10) is the strongest antioxidant peptide. The damage model of H₂O₂-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was used to evaluate the antioxidant effect. After treatment with 25, 50, or 100 μg/mL T10 peptide, T10 obviously decreased H₂O₂-induced damage and increased the cell survival. Comparing with the H₂O₂-induced damage group, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were significantly increased 1.03, 1.1, and 1.33 times, and glutathione reductase (GR) activities were significantly increased 1.11, 1.30, and 1.43 times, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) also reduced 1.41, 1.54, and 1.72 times, respectively. T10 inhibited H₂O₂-induced apoptosis in HUVECs, and protein expressions of the apoptosis-related genes bcl-2 and bax were increased and decreased by 1.95 and 1.44 times, respectively, suggesting T10 decreases apoptosis of the mitochondria-dependent pathway. Comparing with the H₂O₂-induced damage group, the RNA expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 were significantly increased by 2.00, 2.11, and 1.94 times; the protein expressions of p-Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 were significantly increased by 2.67, 1.73, and 1.04 times; and Keap1 was downregulated by 3.9 and 1.32 times, respectively. T10 also regulated the Nrf2 pathway and expressions of related genes (Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1), and blocking the Nrf2 pathway in the model decreased the protective effect of T10. Taken together, T10 peptide isolated from yak milk residue has a protective effect against H₂O₂-induced damage in HUVECs and the molecular mechanisms are involved in the regulation of Nrf2 signaling pathway and cell apoptosis.

Effect of inorganic mercury exposure on reproductive system of male mice: Immunosuppression and fibrosis in testis

Mercury as a toxic heavy metal will accumulate in the body and induce various diseases through the food chain. However, it is unknown that the detailed mechanism of reproductive disorder induced by inorganic mercury in male mice to date. This study investigated the toxicological effect of mercuric chloride (HgCl₂ ) exposure on reproductive system in male mice. Male Kunming mice received normal saline daily or HgCl₂ (3 mg/kg bodyweight) by intraperitoneal injection for a week. The reproductive function was evaluated, and the HgCl₂ exposure induced the decline of sperm quality, pregnancy rate, mean litter size, and survival rate. Notably, we firstly found the HgCl₂ -induced immunosuppression and fibrosis in mice testis according to the results of RNA sequencing. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that HgCl₂ exposure disrupts the reproductive system and induces testicular immunosuppression and fibrosis via inhibition of the CD74 signaling pathway in male mice.

Quercetin Improves Mitochondrial Function and Inflammation in H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress Damage in the Gastric Mucosal Epithelial Cell by Regulating the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders, the therapeutic strategy of which it is limited due to its complex pathogenesis. Oxidative stress-induced damage in gastric mucosal epithelial cells is related to the pathogenesis and development of FD. Quercetin (Que) is one of the active ingredients of Zhishi that showed antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Que on oxidative stress-induced gastric mucosal epithelial cells damage and its underlying molecular mechanism. The gastric mucosal epithelial cell line GES-1 was treated with 200 μM of H₂O₂ to construct an oxidative stress-induced damage model. The H₂O₂ cells were then administrated with different concentrations of Que. The results indicated that high concentration of Que (100 μM) showed cytotoxicity in H₂O₂-induced GES-1 cells. However, appropriate concentration of Que (25 and 50 μM) alleviated the oxidative stress damage induced by H₂O₂, as demonstrated by the increase of proliferation, decrease of ROS generation, apoptosis, inflammation, and alleviation of mitochondrial function and cell barrier. In addition, Que increased the activation of phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT decreased by H₂O₂. To investigate whether Que alleviated the oxidative stress damage in GES-1 cells by the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, the GES-1 cells were treated with Que (25 μM) combined with and without LY294002, the PI3K inhibitor. The results showed that LY294002 suppressed the alleviation effect on Que in H₂O₂-induced GES-1 cells. In conclusion, the current study demonstrates that Que alleviates oxidative stress damage in GES-1 cells by improving mitochondrial function and mucosal barrier and suppressing inflammation through regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, indicating the potential therapeutic effects of Que on FD.

Curcumin protection against ultraviolet-induced photo-damage in Hacat cells by regulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2

Curcumin suppressed ultraviolet (UV) induced skin carcinogenesis and activated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. However, whether curcumin protects skin injury caused by UV is still unknown. A vitro model was established and curcumin effects on Hacat cells were detected. Nrf2 was knocked down in Hacat cells to verify the Nrf2 role in the protective effect of curcumin. Results indicated that ultraviolet A (UVA) (or ultraviolet B (UVB)) irradiation would lead to decreased cell proliferation, increased cell apoptosis, decreased catalase, heme oxygenase 1, and superoxide dismutase expression, and increased levels of protein carbonylation and malondialdehyde (p < 0.05). These adverse events could be reversed by adding 5-μM curcumin. Meanwhile, we found that the application of curcumin effectively induced Nrf2 nuclear accumulation in Hacat cells. While in the Nrf2 knockdown cells, the protective effects of curcumin against UVA (or UVB) were attenuated. Conclusively, curcumin protects Hacat cells against UV exposure-induced photo-damage by regulating Nrf2 expression.

Inhibition of the Nrf2/p38MAPK pathway involved in deltamethrin-induced apoptosis and fibrosis in quail kidney

Deltamethrin (DLM) is a broad-spectrum and effective pyrethroid insecticide. However, DLM has good residual activity on most surfaces and many insects, so it poses a threat to the environment and health of animals and human. Exposure to DLM can cause kidney injury, but the mechanism is not well understood. Therefore, we investigated the possible mechanism of quail kidney injury induced by chronic exposure to different doses of DLM for 12 weeks. The results showed that chronic exposure to DLM induced apoptosis and fibrosis of quail kidney through the promotion of oxidative stress by down-regulating nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), up-regulating the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK). Furthermore, DLM-induced kidney apoptosis in quails as evidenced by increased expression of B-cell lymphoma gene 2-associated X while decreased expression of B-cell lymphoma-extra large. Simultaneously, DLM-induced kidney fibrosis in quails as evidenced by increased expression of fibrosis maker proteins. Overall, the results demonstrate that chronic DLM exposure induces kidney apoptosis and fibrosis via inhibition of the Nrf2/p38MAPK pathway. This study provides a new understanding for the mechanism of DLM-induced quail kidney injury and also provides a theoretical basis for treatment of the DLM poisoning.