A simple fluorometric assay for lipoperoxide in blood plasma

Protective effects of Juglans regia oil on lead acetate-induced reprotoxicity in rats: an antioxidant, histological and computational molecular study

BACKGROUND

Lead (Pb) is a metal that affects many body systems, primarily the male reproductive system. This study aimed to examine the phytochemical profiling and beneficial effects of Juglans regia oil (JRO) in alleviating lead-induced reprotoxicity-associated oxidative injury in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: control group received no treatment, Pb group was exposed to 0.344 g kg-1 bw of Pb acetate, Pb + JRO group was co-treated with Pb plus walnut oil (0.9 g kg-1 bw) and JRO group received walnut oil only.

RESULTS

Pb-treated rats showed significantly decreased gonado-somatic index, count and viability of sperm. Testosterone levels decreased in Pb-treated animals. Besides, Pb disrupted the oxidative/antioxidative status, the plasmatic lipase activity and testicular Pb content. Furthermore, Pb produced testis histopathological features, especially cell degeneration, atrophy and tubular disarrangement. Co-treatment with JRO was found to be effective for recovering the increased testicular oxidative damage-associated histological features in the Pb group. This was supported by the in silico modeling results.

CONCLUSION

The in silico analyses revealed that JRO compounds bound androgen receptor and RAC-alpha serine/threonine kinase with high affinities, which together with pharmacokinetic properties and molecular interactions satisfactorily support the beneficial in vivo findings in the Pb + JRO group of rats. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Olmesartan attenuates doxorubicin-elicited testicular toxicity: The interaction between sirtuin-1, HMGB1/NLRP3 inflammasome/gasdermin D signaling, and AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy

BACKGROUND

In the recent years, there has been an increased incidence of testicular toxicity associated with doxorubicin (DOX) use in cancer therapy. The mechanisms of this adverse effect may include induction of oxidative stress with augmentation of the inflammatory and the apoptotic signals in the testicular tissues. The ongoing research is directed towards the exploration of new agents that are capable of overcoming this health problem. This study was a trial to evaluate the efficacy of Olmesartan as a protective agent against DOX-induced testicular dysfunction in male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into control group, DOX-injected group, and three DOX-injected groups treated with olmesartan at 3 dose levels (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day). The effect of the different treatments was assessed at the biochemical and the morphological levels.

KEY FINDINGS

Olmesartan administered to DOX-treated rats induced dose-dependent restoration of the testicular weight and functions, normalization of the hormonal profile, augmentation of the antioxidant defenses, and potentiation of AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy in comparison to rats treated with DOX alone. These effects were accompanied with a dose-dependent significant mitigation of the cellular events related to pyroptosis and inflammation and a significant amelioration of the testicular morphological changes induced by DOX.

SIGNIFICANCE

Olmesartan may represent a promising therapy for DOX-elicited testicular dysfunction, possibly via dose-dependent antioxidant, anti-pyroptotic, anti-inflammatory, and autophagy enhancing effects.

Exposure to airborne particulate matter and undernutrition in young rats: An in-depth histopathological and biochemical study on lung and excretory organs

Environmental stressors, such as air particulate matter (PM) and nutrient deficiencies, can significantly impact crucial organs involved in detoxifying xenobiotics, including lungs, liver, and kidneys, especially in vulnerable populations like children. This study investigated the effect of 4-week exposure to Residual Oil Fly Ash (ROFA) on these organs in young rats under growth-restricted nutrition (NGR). We assessed histological, histomorphometric and biochemical parameters. ROFA exposure induced histological changes and inflammation in all three organs when compared to control (C) animals. Specifically, in lungs ROFA caused a significant reduction in alveolar airspace (C: 55.8 ± 1.8% vs. ROFA: 38.7 ± 3.0%, p < 0.01) and alveolar number along with changes in alveolar size distribution, and disruption of the smooth muscle layer which may impaired respiratory function. In the liver, ROFA increased binucleated cells, macro and microvesicles and both AST and ALT serum biomarkers (AST: C = 77.7 ± 1.3 vs. ROFA = 81.6 ± 1.3, p < 0.05; ALT: C = 44.5 ± 0.9 vs. ROFA = 49.4 ± 1.3, p < 0.05). In the kidneys, a reduced Bowman's space (C: 2.15 ± 0.2 mm2 vs. ROFA: 1.74 ± 0.2 mm2, p < 0.05) was observed, indicative of glomerular filtration failure. NGR alone reduced Bowman's space (C: 2.15 ± 0.2 mm2 vs. NGR: 1.06 ± 0.1 mm2, p < 0.001). In lung and liver NGR showed higher levels of proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively) when compared to C. In conclusion, both stressors negatively affected lung and excretory organs in young rats, with nutritional status further modulating the physiological response to ROFA. These findings highlight the compounded risks posed by environmental pollutants and poor nutrition in vulnerable populations.

Aspartate Metabolism-Driven Gut Microbiota Dynamics and RIP-Dependent Mitochondrial Function Counteract Oxidative Stress

Aspartate (Asp) metabolism-mediated antioxidant functions have important implications for neonatal growth and intestinal health; however, the antioxidant mechanisms through which Asp regulates the gut microbiota and influences RIP activation remain elusive. This study reports that chronic oxidative stress disrupts gut microbiota and metabolite balance and that such imbalance is intricately tied to the perturbation of Asp metabolism. Under normal conditions, in vivo and in vitro studies reveal that exogenous Asp improves intestinal health by regulating epithelial cell proliferation, nutrient uptake, and apoptosis. During oxidative stress, Asp reduces Megasphaera abundance while increasing Ruminococcaceae. This reversal effect depends on the enhanced production of the antioxidant eicosapentaenoic acid mediated through Asp metabolism and microbiota. Mechanistically, the application of exogenous Asp orchestrates the antioxidant responses in enterocytes via the modulation of the RIP3-MLKL and RIP1-Nrf2-NF-κB pathways to eliminate excessive reactive oxygen species and maintain mitochondrial functionality and cellular survival. These results demonstrate that Asp signaling alleviates oxidative stress by dynamically modulating the gut microbiota and RIP-dependent mitochondrial function, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for oxidative stress disease treatment.

Pharmacological investigation of genistein for its therapeutic potential against nitroglycerin-induced migraine headache

OBJECTIVES

Migraine, typically occurs on one side of the head, lasts for hours to days. Trigemino-vascular system (TVS) plays a vital role in pain generation, with neurogenic inflammation and oxidative stress playing key roles in its pathophysiology.

METHODS

This study aimed to investigate genistein's potential as anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agent in mitigating migraine pain. Genistein (20 and 50 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally (IP) to nitroglycerin (NTG; 10 mg/kg)-induced migraine model in rats. Behavioral analysis, antioxidant assay, immunohistochemistry (IHC), histopathological examination, ELISA, and RT-PCR were conducted to evaluate the antimigraine potential of genistein.

KEY FINDINGS

In-silico analysis showed genestien's ACE values of -4.8 to -9.2 Kcal/mol against selected protein targets. Genistein significantly reversed mechanical and thermal nociception, light phobicity, and head scratching; increased the intensities of GST, GSH, catalase; and down regulated lipid peroxidase (LPO) in cortex and trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC). It also reduced Nrf2, NF-kB, and IL6 expression, analyzed through IHC, improved histopathological features, and increased COX-2 and decreased PPAR-γ expressions, while RT-PCR analysis revealed increased PPAR-γ expressions in genistein-treated rats.

CONCLUSION

Genistein exhibited potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in migraine treatment, acting through multifactorial mechanisms by modulating the expression of numerous proteins in the region cortex and TNC.

Does temperature influence on biomarker responses to copper exposure? The invasive bivalve Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1857) as a model

Biomarkers are useful tools for assessing the early warning effects of pollutants. However, their responses can be influenced by confounding factors. In this study, we investigated the influence of temperature on multiple biomarkers in the invasive freshwater bivalve Limnoperna fortunei exposed to copper (Cu). The mussels were exposed to low and high environmental Cu concentrations at two temperatures (15 °C and 25 °C). After 96 h, the oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and metabolic parameters were assessed. Our results showed that temperature is a key factor influencing biomarker responses in mussels, with higher glutathione S-transferase activity and lower energy reserves at cold temperature. In addition, the effects of Cu were greater at the highest concentration at 15 °C (increased lipid peroxidation and cholinesterase activity). Overall, these findings suggest that cold stress increases the susceptibility of L. fortunei to metal effects and highlight the importance of including temperature in toxicity testing and biomonitoring. In addition, using the invasive bivalve L. fortunei as a model could prove valuable in its role as a sentinel species for other organisms.

Effects of isoquinoline alkaloids as an alternative to antibiotic on oxidative stress, inflammatory status, and cecal microbiome of broilers under high stocking density

This study investigated the effect of isoquinoline alkaloids as an alternative to bacitracin on growth performance, oxidative stress, inflammatory status, and ceca microbiome of broilers raised under high stocking density (HSD). A total of 1,500 one-day-old male Ross 308 chicks were randomly assigned to five treatment groups, with 10 replicate pens per group and 30 birds per pen, for 37 days. The treatments included normal stocking density (NSD, 10 birds/m²), HSD (15 birds/m²), HSD with 50 ppm Bacitracin (BCT50), HSD with 80 ppm isoquinoline alkaloids (IQA80), and HSD with 100 ppm isoquinoline alkaloids (IQA100). From days 11 to 24, HSD birds had lower feed efficiency (P < 0.05) compared to those in other treatments. The heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and malondialdehyde levels were lower in NSD and IQA80 birds compared to HSD and BCT50 birds (P < 0.05). HSD birds had higher IL-6 and a lower villus height and villus height-to-crypt depth ratio compared to birds in other groups (P < 0.05). Serum TNF-α was lower in NSD and IQA80 birds compared to those in the HSD group. Alpha diversity was not affected by the treatments; however, beta diversity was lower in HSD birds compared to other treatments. HSD birds showed reduced microbial diversity, with a higher prevalence of Enterococcaceae and Peptostreptococcaceae. NSD enhanced the abundance of Lactobacillaceae, Clostridiaceae, and Rikenellaceae. BCT50 increased and decreased the abundance of Enterococcaceae and Rikenellaceae respectively. IQA80 and IQA100 increased the abundance of Lachnospiraceae, Leuconostocaceae, and Coriobacteriaceae. HSD altered metabolic pathways related to carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. BCT50 modulated microbial functions, particularly those related to cell wall synthesis, while isoquinoline alkaloids upregulated pathways involved in energy production, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and antioxidant production. Both Bacitracin and isoquinoline alkaloids were effective in mitigating the negative effects of HSD on immunity, gut health and microbiota in broilers. Given the concerns about antimicrobial resistance, isoquinoline alkaloids are a potent alternative to bacitracin, with IQA80 being particularly recommended.

Simultaneous ingestion of apple pectin enhances the absorption and antioxidant activity of quercetin in rats

The enhanced bioavailability of quercetin (Qr), which has low absorption, may have beneficial effects on human health. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of simultaneous pectin ingestion on the absorption and antioxidant activity of Qr. Qr concentrations in the plasma and urine of rats fed Qr + cellulose or Qr + pectin diets were determined, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were measured. The concentrations of Qr and its metabolites in the plasma and urine increased one day after feeding the Qr + pectin diet compared with the Qr + cellulose diet. The elevation of TBARS was suppressed in rats fed the Qr + pectin diet. Qr concentrations in the plasma and LDL increased in a dose-dependent manner with pectin. Qr levels in plasma and LDL were negatively correlated with TBARS levels in LDL. The simultaneous ingestion of pectin has been suggested to immediately enhance the absorption and antioxidant activity of Qr.

Quercetin and calorie restriction improve leptin/adiponectin balance through reducing high-fat diet-induced oxidative stress in male BALB/c mice

Throughout the recent decades, obesity has become a serious health problem that raises the risk of several diseases, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, neurological musculoskeletal disorders, and Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Some strategies, such as dietary interventions, calorie restriction (CR), and the use of antioxidant compounds, have been proposed to improve quality of life in relation to obesity. The goal of this study was to characterize the effects of CR and quercetin (QUER) on obesity-induced oxidative stress (OS). Thirty 8-week-old male BALB/c mice were divided into 5 groups of six mice each: normal diet, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + CR, HFD + QUER (15 mg kg-1, IP), and HFD + QUER + CR. CR was applied as two fasting days with an interval of two days in a week. Catalase (CAT), Paraxonase 1 (PON1) and adiponectin (APN) were decreased in the HFD group, while the combination of QUER and CR increased these parameters. Treatment with QUER and CR improved Alanine transaminase and Alkaline Phosphatase enzyme activity and also the amount of leptin and insulin. Moreover, combined QUER and CR also reduced triacylglycerol (TAG), total cholesterol and TAG droplets in hepatocytes. Decreased OS was associated with the higher expression of NAD(P)H Quinone Oxidoreductase 1(NQO1) and reduced hepatic vacuoles in QUER and CR-HFD treated groups. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the combination of QUER and CR might exert protective impacts on obesity through alleviating OS and the regulation of metabolism.

Collaborative Effects of Caloric Restriction and Quercetin on Age-related Oxidative Stress Reduction through NQO1/Sirt1 Gene Regulation

Background

Aging is caused by the progressive accumulation of various changes in the body, which is associated with an increase in free radicals and oxidative stress (OS). The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of caloric restriction (CR) and quercetin (QUER) in alleviating OS in aging and the involvement of the NAD (P) H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1)/SIRT1 signaling pathway in these effects.

Methods

Two age groups of male Wistar rats (eight and 20 weeks of age) were included in the study and subdivided into normal diet (ND), ND with QUER (15 mg Kg-1, IP), ND with CR, and ND with QUER and CR groups. The activities of catalase (CAT), paraoxonase (PON1), liver enzymes and lipid profiles, and the expression of SIRT1 and NQO1 genes were analyzed using the desired methods.

Results

We showed higher liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase [AST], alanine transaminase [ALT], and alkaline phosphatase [ALP]), increased atherogenic lipids, and reduced PON1 activity in 20-week-old rats compared with eight-week-old rats, and the administration of QUER and CR restored these values to the normal range. The expression of NQO1 and SIRT1 is also affected by CR and QUER. CR alone and in combination with QUER significantly raised the expression of the NQO1 and SIRT1 genes. This effect was notable in SIRT1.

Conclusions

QUER and CR together improved the detrimental effects of aging by modulating antioxidant signaling pathways, suggesting this combination is a complementary therapeutic regime for aging and age-related diseases.

Effect of multiorgan abdominal ischemic preconditioning on experimental kidney transplantation

PURPOSE

To mitigate ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) triggered in solid organ transplant procedures, we aimed to evaluate the effects of multi-organ abdominal ischemic preconditioning (MAIP) in the context of renal IRI.

METHODS

An experimental kidney transplant model was conducted. Rats were divided into three groups: an intervention free basal group from which physiological data was collected; a control group (CT), which consisted of transplanted animals without MAIP; and a treated group, in which a MAIP protocol was implemented in the donor during the procurement of the left kidney, monitoring the recipient for 24 hours.

RESULTS

Urea, creatinine, and lactate dehydrogenase, as well as histopathological analysis (Banff: CT 1,66 ± 0,57 vs. basal 0, and MAIP 1), showed a clear trend in favor of MAIP group. Similar results were observed for tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and CXCL10, as well as indicators of oxidative stress, with statistically significant levels for CXCL10 [0,295 ± 0,0074 arbitrary units (AU) CT and 0,0057 ± 0,0065 AU MAIP] and TBARS (2,93 ± 0,08 nmol/μg CT; and 2,49 ± 0,23 nmol/μg MAIP; p 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The findings indicated that the MAIP exerts a protective influence on the transplanted kidneys, functioning as an IRI-protective strategy and enhancing the parameters associated with renal graft functionality.

Tropisetron attenuates D-galactose-induced heart aging in male mice: activation of sirtuin1

This study pursued to evaluate the tropisetron effects in attenuating D-galactose induced heart aging in mice. The study aimed to ascertain whether tropisetron affects apoptotic processes, mitochondrial oxidative stress, or inflammatory variables in cardiac tissue, presumably through the modulation of the SIRT1 signaling pathway or sirtuin 1. Aging was induced via administration of D-galactose (200 mg/kg, s.c.). Then, mice were treated with tropisetron (1, 3, and 5 mg/kg/day, i.p.). After 8 weeks, the key indicators of oxidative mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nitric oxide concentrations were evaluated. Additionally, the gene expressions of apoptotic regulators Bax and Bcl2, as well as SIRT1, were assessed using real-time PCR. Histological alterations and serum lactate dehydrogenase levels were also assessed. Tropisetron alleviated mitochondrial oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators while decreasing immune cell infiltration into cardiac tissue generated by D-galactose. The simultaneous injection of tropisetron effectively inhibited D-galactose-induced apoptosis by modulating the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and activating the SIRT1 pathway. The administration of tropisetron resulted in reduced serum lactate dehydrogenase levels compared to the group treated just with D-galactose. Moreover, tropisetron successfully reinstated mitochondrial activity and diminished D-galactose-induced aberrant nitric oxide generation. The research concludes that tropisetron may provide protection against cardiac aging by activating multiple mechanisms associated with the SIRT1 pathway.

Biomarker responses in fish caged in a rice field during a bifenthrin application

The use of pesticides in integrated rice-fish farming could have an impact on fish health. The present study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the biological effects of the insecticide bifenthrin on fish (Piaractus mesopotamicus and Hoplosternum littorale) using a caging experiment. Fish were divided into two sites: control (C) and bifenthrin exposure (BF). Two cages (n = 8 fish/cage) per species were placed separately at each site. The BF application (Seizer ®) was carried out with a coastal sprayer according to the BF recommended dose for rice cultivation (0.1 L/ha). After 72 h, fish were collected, and gills, liver, brain, and muscle were dissected for the analysis of biomarkers of accumulation, oxidative stress, and neurotoxicity. In P. mesopotamicus, the main changes were observed in the muscle, where BF accumulated and induced neurotoxicity (inhibition of cholinesterase activity) and oxidative stress (activation of antioxidant enzymes, decreased glutathione levels, increased lipid peroxidation). The gills and liver also showed changes in some markers of the antioxidant system. In H. littorale, BF exposure induced changes in oxidative stress biomarkers in liver (activation of antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation) and gill tissues (alteration in antioxidant markers). These results show that the use of bifenthrin in rice fields poses a risk to fish farming under current pesticide management practices. Furthermore, its use could affect other species in these agroecosystems, highlighting the need for further studies to assess the ecological and productive consequences in a context of increasing pyrethroid use worldwide.

Increased Red Cell Superoxide Dismutase Activity Is Associated with Cancer Risk: A Hidaka Cohort Study

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) catalyzes the highly reactive superoxide anion to form hydrogen peroxide, which facilitates cell proliferation and death. We investigated whether red cell SOD (R-SOD) activity is associated with an increased risk of cancer in a Japanese general population. We prospectively analyzed data from 1,921 participants (800 men and 1,121 women; age, 58.7 ± 14.7 years) in a Hidaka cohort study. After a median follow-up period of 10.9 years, 160 participants had developed cancer. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate quartile-specific HRs and 95% confidential intervals (CI) for cancer risk. After adjustment for potential cancer risk factors including age, sex, current smoking habit, alcohol use, physical activities, body mass index, plasma immunoreactive insulin, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, we found a significant association between R-SOD activity and an increased risk of cancer (HR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.03-2.52; P = 0.037). In analyses conducted separately by sex, a significant association was found in men (HR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.35-4.59; P = 0.003) but not women (HR, 1.46; 95% CI, 0.70-3.05; P = 0.320). After excluding participants who developed cancer within 5 years of the baseline survey, the association was more evident in men (HR, 4.64; 95% CI, 1.88-11.45; P = 0.001). We found no association with cancer risk in women (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.39-2.65; P = 0.983). Increased R-SOD activities were associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly in men in this population.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study is the first to show that increased R-SOD activity is associated with a significantly higher cancer risk in men but not in women. Antioxidative enzymes such as SOD are essential for maintaining cellular redox balance. Their roles in cancer development and prevention are yet to be fully elucidated.

Nickel-induced oxidative stress and phospholipid remodeling in cucumber leaves

Nickel phytotoxicity has been attributed, among others, to oxidative stress. However, little is known about Ni-induced phospholipid modifications, including the oxidative ones. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidative enzyme activities, malondialdehyde and the early lipid oxidation products contents, membrane permeability, phospholipid profile as well as phospholipid unsaturation degree were studied in the 1st and the 2nd leaves of hydroponically grown cucumber seedlings subjected to Ni stress. Compared to the 2nd leaf the 1st one showed stronger visual Ni toxicity symptoms, higher Ni, O2.- and H2O2 accumulation as well as greater enhancement in membrane permeability. Enzyme activities were differently influenced by Ni stress, however most pronounced changes were generally found in the 1st leaf. Ni treatment resulted in oxidation of leaf lipids, which was evidenced by appearance of increased contents of MDA and the early produced oxylipins. Among the latter 9-hydroxyoctadecatrienoic acid (9-HOTrE) and 13-hydroxyoctadecatrienoic acid (13-HOTrE) contents showed the most pronounced increase in response to Ni treatment. Exposure to the metal led to the changes in the leaf phospholipid profile and increased degree of phospholipid unsaturation. The obtained results have been discussed in relation to the difference in Ni stress severity between the 1st and the 2nd leaves.

Yellow pea-based pasta's impacts on the salt intake, glycemic parameters and oxidative stress in healthy individuals: a randomized clinical trial

Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a widely cultivated legumes globally, is attracting interest as a functional food owing to its antioxidant properties derived from nutritional components such as polyphenols. We previously reported that yellow pea-based pasta (YPP) aids in controlling blood glucose and enhances the sensitivity to saltiness. This study examined the antioxidant effect of YPP and its effects on the salt intake and postprandial blood glucose levels by simulating a real-life scenario. In this open, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, 40 healthy adult men and women aged 20-65 years, whose salt intake exceeded the target salt equivalent level of the Japanese dietary intake standard, were allocated to the following groups (n = 20): the group consuming one serving of YPP per day and the group maintaining their regular daily dietary habits. The participants who were allocated to the YPP group showed significantly improved oxidative stress markers (BAP/d-ROMs ratio change: control =  - 0.11, YPP = 0.27, p = 0.044; lipid peroxide change: control = 0.11, YPP =  - 0.25, p < 0.001) than control participants. The effects on salt intake and blood glucose levels were limited. In conclusion, YPP may serve as a functional staple food that improves oxidative stress.

Kefir mitigates renal damage caused by zearalenone in female wistar rats by reducing oxidative stress

The estrogen-like mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) was popularly occurred in several food and feeds, posing threats to human and animal health. ZEA induced renal toxicity and caused oxidative stress. In the current study, the protecting effect of kefir administration against ZEA-induced renal damage in rats was explored. Rats were divided into 4 groups, each consisting of 5 animals. For the initial 7 days, they were orally administered sterile milk (200 μL/day). Subsequently, during the second week, the groups were exposed to kefir (200 μL/day), ZEA (40 mg/kg b.w./day) and a combination of kefir and ZEA. The biochemical parameters, kidney histological changes and ZEA residue were assessed. Kefir supplementation enhanced the antioxidant enzymes in the kidney, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities, which increased by 1.2, 4 and 20 folds, respectively, relative to the ZEA group. Remarkably, the concomitant administration kefir + ZEA suppressed ZEA residues in both serum and kidney. Additionally, serum levels of blood urea nitrogen, uric acid and renal malondialdehyde decreased by 22, 65 and 54%, respectively, in the kefir + ZEA group; while, the creatinine content increased by around 60%. Rats co-treated with kefir showed a normal kidney histological architecture contrary to tissues alterations mediated in the ZEA group. These results suggest that kefir may showed a protective effect on the kidneys, mitigating ZEA-induced acute toxicity in rats.

Pharmacological investigation of taxifolin for its therapeutic potential in depression

The current study aimed to investigate the influence of taxifolin on depression symptoms alleviation in Male Sprague-Dawley rats by targeting underlying pathways of depression. Molecular docking analyses were conducted to validate taxifolin's binding affinities against various targets. In silico analysis of taxifolin revealed various aspects of post docking interactions with different protein targets. Depression was induced in rats via intraperitoneal injection of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 500 μ g/Kg) for 14 alternative days. Rats (n = 6/group) were randomly assigned to four groups: (i) Saline/Control, (ii) Disease (LPS 500 μg/kg), (iii) Standard (fluoxetine 20 mg/kg), and (iv) Treatment (taxifolin 20 mg/kg). At the end of the in vivo study, brain samples were used for biochemical and morphological analysis. Taxifolin exhibited neuroprotective effects, as evidenced by behavioral studies, antioxidant analysis, histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry, ELISA and RT PCR, indicating an increase number of surviving neurons, normalization of cell size and shape, and reduction in vacuolization. Taxifolin also decreased inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, NF-κb, IL-6 and COX-2, while significantly upregulating and activating the protective PPAR-γ pathway, through which it reduces the oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, thereby ameliorating depression symptoms in experimental rat model of depression. Our finding suggests that taxifolin act as neuroprotective agent partially mediated through PPAR-γ pathway.

AFM1 exposure in male balb/c mice and intervention strategies against its immuno-physiological toxicity using clay mineral and lactic acid bacteria alone or in combination

CONTEXT

Aflatoxins are the most harmful mycotoxins that cause human and animal health concerns. Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is the primary hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B1 and is linked to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and immunotoxicity in humans and animals. Because of the important role of dairy products in human life, especially children, AFM1 is such a major concern to humans because of its frequent occurrence in dairy products at concentrations high enough to cause adverse effects to human and animal health. Reduced its bioavailability becomes a high priority in order to protect human and animal health.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate, in vivo, the ability of lactic acid bacteria (lactobacillus rhamnosus GAF01, LR) and clay mineral (bentonite, BT) mixture to mitigate/reduce AFM1-induced immunotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress in exposed Balb/c mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The in vivo study was conducted using male Balb/c mice that treated, orally, by AFM1 alone or in combination with LR and/or BT, daily for 10 days as follows: group 1 control received 200 µl of PBS, group 2 treated with LR alone (2.108 CFU/mL), group 3 treated with BT alone (1 g/kg bw), group 4 treated with AFM1 alone (100 μg/kg), group 5 co-treated with LR + AFM1, group 6 co-treated with BT + AFM1, group 7 co-treated with BT + LR + AFM1. Forty-eight h after the end of the treatment, the mice were sacrificed and the blood, spleen, thymus, liver and kidney were collected. The blood was used for biochemical and immunological study. Spleen and thymus samples were used to thymocytes and splenocytes assessments. Liver and kidney samples were the target for evaluation of oxidative stress enzymes status and for histological assays.

RESULTS

The results showed that AFM1 caused toxicities in male Blab/c mice at different levels. Treatment with AFM1 resulted in severe stress of liver and kidney organs indicated by a significant change in the biochemical and immunological parameters, histopathology as well as a disorder in the profile of oxidative stress enzymes levels. Also, it was demonstrated that AFM1 caused toxicities in thymus and spleen organs. The co-treatment with LR and/or BT significantly improved the hepatic and renal tissues, regulated antioxidant enzyme activities, spleen and thymus viability and biochemical and immunological parameters. LR and BT alone showed to be safe during the treatment.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the LR and/or BT was able to reduce the biochemical, histopathological and immunological damages induced by AFM1 and indeed it could be exploited as one of the biological strategies for food and feedstuffs detoxification.

Betaine postpones hyperglycemia-related senescence in ovarian and testicular cells: Involvement of RAGE and β-galactosidase

The structural and functional disorders of the testis and ovary are one of the main complications of hyperglycemia. Betaine is a trimethyl glycine with antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory potential. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of betaine on the expression of aging and oxidative stress markers in ovarian and testicular cells under hyperglycemic conditions. Testicular and ovarian cells were subjected to four different conditions, including normal glucose and hyperglycemia, with or without betaine (5 mM). The cells with hyperglycemia saw an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), methylglyoxal (MGO), expression of a receptor for AGE, and aging-related genes (β-GAL), and a decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes including catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. The treatment with betaine, in contrast, decreased the amount of MGO and MDA, and also downregulated aging-related signaling. Although hyperglycemia induces senescence in testicular and ovarian cells, the use of betaine may have a protective effect against the cell senescence, which may be useful in the management of infertility.

Preventive Anti-inflammatory Effects of Apocynin on Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease with a complex aetiology characterised by abnormal immune responses and oxidative stress-induced tissue injury. Inflammatory cells play an important role in the progression of this pathology through the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from various sources including the NADPH oxidases (NOXs). The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive effect of apocynin, a natural antioxidant molecule and a selective inhibitor of NOXs, on acetic acid (AA)-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Our results first confirmed that apocynin has a high free radical scavenging capacity as well as a potent iron chelating ability. Oral pretreatment of rats with apocynin (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) for 7 days prior to AA-induced colitis suppressed the increase in pro-oxidant markers in colonic homogenates and preserved colonic cytoarchitecture from acetic acid-induced damage. Oral administration of apocynin (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) also reduced several systemic inflammatory markers such as alkaline phosphatase, iron, pro-inflammatory cytokines, C-reactive protein and myeloperoxidase. This study shows that apocynin protects rats from acetic acid-induced colonic inflammation and suggests that apocynin may have a promising beneficial effect in the prevention of ulcerative colitis.

Single and joint toxicity of azoxystrobin and cyproconazole to Prochilodus lineatus: Bioconcentration and biochemical responses

Fungicides are widely used across the world to protect crops and their presence in freshwater systems is increasing. However, the evaluation of their potential impacts on non-target organisms is in the minority of studies related to pesticides. In the current research, the single and joint toxicity of azoxystrobin (AZX) and cyproconazole (CYP) was investigated in juvenile fish Prochilodus lineatus. In particular, we evaluated bioconcentration and biochemical responses following a short-term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of the fungicides (alone and in mixture). We also determined interactions between the biological responses when the two compounds were used in mixture. Our results demonstrate that AZX and CYP pose a risk to native freshwater fish by causing deleterious effects. Both compounds, alone and in mixture, bioaccumulated in P. lineatus and triggered neurotoxicity and changes in oxidative stress biomarkers in several organs. Moreover, muscle was a target tissue for these fungicides and a synergistic interaction was observed for the mixture. Due to the lack of studies in fish assessing the effects following exposure to AZX-CYP mixtures and considering a realistic exposure situation in agriculture-impacted water bodies, these findings provide new and relevant information for future studies.

Sex-dependent effect of sublethal copper concentrations on de novo cholesterol synthesis in astrocytes and their possible links to variations in cholesterol and amyloid precursor protein levels in neuronal membranes

BACKGROUND

Cholesterol (Cho) is an essential lipophilic molecule in cells; however, both its decrease and its increase may favor the development of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although copper (Cu) is an essential trace metal for cells, the increased plasma concentration of its free form has been linked with AD development and severity. AD affects aged people, but its prevalence and severity are higher in women than in men. We have previously shown that Cu promotes Cho de novo synthesis in immature neurons as well as increased Cho in membrane rafts and Aβ levels in culture medium, but there are no results yet regarding sex differences in the effects of sublethal Cu exposure on Cho de novo synthesis.

METHODS

We examined the potential sex-specific impact of sublethal Cu concentrations on de novo Cho synthesis in primary cultures of male and female astrocytes. We also explored whether this had any correlation with variations in Cho and APP levels within neuronal membrane rafts.

RESULTS

Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that Cu treatment leads to a greater increase in ROS levels in female astrocytes than in males. Furthermore, through RT-PCR analysis, we observed an upregulation of SREBP-2 and HMGCR. Consistently, we observed an increase in de novo Cho synthesis. Finally, western blot analysis indicated that the levels of ABCA1 increase after Cu treatment, accompanied by a higher release of radiolabeled Cho and an elevation in Cho and APP levels in neuronal membrane rafts. Importantly, all these results were significantly more pronounced in female astrocytes than in males.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirm that Cu stimulates Cho synthesis in astrocytes, both in a ROS-dependent and -independent manner. Moreover, female astrocytes displayed elevated levels of HMGCR, and de novo Cho synthesis compared to males following TBH and Cu treatments. This corresponds with higher levels of Cho released into the culture medium and a more significant Cho and APP rise within neuronal rafts. We consider that the increased risk of AD in females partly arises from sex-specific responses to metals and/or exogenous substances, impacting key enzyme regulation in various biochemical pathways, including HMGCR.

Advances of Oxidative Stress Impact in Periodontitis: Biomarkers and Effective Targeting Options

Periodontitis is the most common inflammatory oral disease that affects around 15% of adults and contributes to severe periodontal tissue destruction with subsequent tooth loosening and loss. Among the main pathogenic mechanisms underlying periodontitis, excessive reactive oxygen species production and oxidative stress play a predominant role in inducing both local and systemic damage. Current therapeutic approaches have expanded the conventional methods combined with herbal antioxidant compounds to free radical-scavenging nanomaterials and infrared laser therapy, offering promising pre-clinical evidence in periodontitis management. Herein, we review the pathogenic mechanisms of reactive oxygen species tissue damage, along with recent advances in oxidative stress biomarkers and novel targeting options.

Antioxidant properties of date seeds extract (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in alloxan induced damage in rats

The study was conducted to examine the antioxidant activity and evaluate the protective effects of the date seeds powder kentichi against alloxan-induced damage in the liver, kidney, and pancreas in diabetic's rats. Group 1: control group, that did not receive any treatment, Group 2: alloxan was injected intraperitoneally (120 mg/kg body weight) for two days (Diab), Group 3: treated only by date seeds powder added in the diet (300 g/kg) for 6 weeks (DSPK), Group 4: alloxan-diabetic rats treated with date seeds powder (300 g/kg) (DSPK + Diab). Estimations of biochemical parameters in blood were determined. TBARS, SOD, CAT, and GPx activities were determined. A histopathological study was done by immersing pieces of both organs in a fixative solution followed by paraffin hematoxylin-eosin staining. In addition, the antioxidant activities of DSPK were evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and ABTS free radical scavenging. The results revealed that date seeds significantly decreased serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, T-protein, ALP, D-bili and T-bili levels. In addition, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities that had been reduced in liver, kidney, and pancreas of the treated group were restored by DSPK treatments and, therefore, the lipid peroxidation level was reduced in the liver, kidney and pancreas tissue compared to the control group. Additionally, the histological structure in these organs was restored after treatment with date seeds powder.

Plasma cystine/methionine ratio is associated with left ventricular diastolic function in patients with heart disease

Elevated circulating homocysteine (Hcy) is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure (HF). It remains unclear how Hcy and its derivatives relate to left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between plasma Hcy-related metabolites and diastolic dysfunction (DD) in patients with heart disease (HD). A total of 62 HD patients with preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 50%) were enrolled. Plasma Hcy and its derivatives were measured by liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Spearman's correlation test and multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the associations between metabolite levels and LV diastolic function. The cystine/methionine (CySS/Met) ratio was positively correlated with LV diastolic function, which was defined from the ratio of mitral inflow E and mitral e' annular velocities (E/e') (Spearman's r = 0.43, p < 0.001). When the subjects were categorized into two groups by E/e', the high-E/e' group had a significantly higher CySS/Met ratio than the low-E/e' group (p = 0.002). Multiple linear regression models revealed that the CySS/Met ratio was independently associated with E/e' after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD),　hemoglobin, and lipid peroxide (LPO) {standardized β (95% CI); 0.14 (0.04-0.23); p = 0.005}. Hcy, CySS, and Met did not show a significant association with E/e' in the same models. A high plasma CySS/Met ratio reflected DD in patients with HD.

GC-MS and GC-MS/MS measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) in clinical studies: Pre-analytical and clinical considerations

Malondialdehyde (MDA; 1,3-propanedial, OHC-CH2-CHO) is one of the most frequently measured biomarkers of oxidative stress in plasma and serum. L-Arginine (Arg) is the substrate of nitric oxide synthases (NOS), which convert L-arginine to nitric oxide (NO) and L-citrulline. The Arg/NO pathway comprises several members, including the endogenous NOS-activity inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and its major metabolite dimethyl amine (DMA), and nitrite and nitrate, the major NO metabolites. Reliable measurement of MDA and members of the Arg/NO pathway in plasma, serum, urine and in other biological samples, such as saliva and cerebrospinal fluid, is highly challenging both for analytical and pre-analytical reasons. In our group, we use validated gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) methods for the quantitative determination in clinical studies of MDA as a biomarker of oxidative stress, and various Arg/NO metabolites that describe the status of this pathway. Here, the importance of pre-analytical issues, which has emerged from the use of GC-MS and GC-MS/MS in clinico-pharmacological studies, is discussed. Paradigmatically, two studies on the long-term oral administration of L-arginine dihydrochloride to patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) or coronary artery disease (CAD) were considered. Pre-analytical issues that were addressed include blood sampling, plasma or serum storage, study design (notably in long-term studies), and the alternative of measuring MDA in human urine.

Nanosilica and copper ecotoxicity in Gambusia holbrooki fish

When silica nanoparticles (SiNP) reach the water bodies interact with the already existing pollutants in the environments. This study aimed to evaluate the ecotoxicity of SiNP under the presence/absence of Cu in mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). Fish were exposed to 0, 10 and 100 mg SiNP L-1, alone or mixed with Cu (0.25 mg L-1). After 96 h, the amount of colony forming units (CFU) of bacteria living on the skin mucus was analysed, and oxidative stress, tissue damage enzymes, and neurotoxicity were evaluated. We observed a reduction in CFU when Cu was present in the media. The liver was the target organ, evidencing a decrease in tissue damage enzymatic activities, activation of the antioxidant system in all treatments, and lipid oxidative damage when the SiNP and Cu were mixed. Overall, SiNP ecotoxicity was proved, which could also be enhanced by the presence of ubiquitous elements such as metals.

The Antidiabetic Activity of Combining the Aqueous Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina Leaves and Tamarindus indica Fruit Pulp in Streptozotocin-Induced Wistar Rats

Background Many plants are used to reduce the side effects of diabetes mellitus. These plants (including Vernonia amygdalina and Tamarindus indica) are rich in phytochemical compounds that have the ability to reduce glycemia and the effect of diabetes-related oxidative stress. In this study, we aimed to investigate the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of combining V. amygdalina leaves and T. indica pulp extracts. Methodology We prepared a mixture by combining V. amygdalina leaves and T. indica pulp extracts, and we assessed antioxidant properties via the capacity of both extracts to reduce ferric ions, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, and hydroxyl radicals. We also assessed antidiabetic properties through the capacity of the extracts' combination to inhibit alpha-amylase. We evaluated crude fiber, total phenols content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). Results From our findings, the combination at a concentration of 200 μg/mgE showed that a percentage of 55.17±1.2 could reduce DPPH radicals, 0.366±0.012 could scavenge ferric ions, and 0.233±0.0022 could reduce hydroxyl radicals. With regard to secondary metabolites, we obtained 16.96±0.17 mEGA/gE for total phenol content, 1.74±0.045 mECAT/gE for total flavonoid content, and crude fiber content in our combination at 6.87±1%. These results were obtained with a significant difference at the 5% threshold. The extract combination also showed an alpha-amylase inhibitory percentage of 23.56±4.6% at the concentration of 200 μg/mgE. Daily administration of the combination of extracts significantly lowered the fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, and malondialdehyde. However, there was a significant increase in serum proteins and HDL cholesterol. We did not observe an antagonistic effect between our combination and glybenclamide. Conclusion Our formulation, therefore, presents antioxidant and antidiabetic activity and could be used for the management of diabetic patients.

Nanosilica size-dependent toxicity in Ceriodaphnia reticulata (Cladocera)

Silica nanoparticles (SiNP) are the most produced nanomaterials due to their variety of applications. When released to environments, surface water bodies are their main final sink. SiNP toxicity is still inconclusive and may vary according to particle properties such as their size. We analyzed the size-related effects of SiNP (22 and 244 nm) on mortality, life history traits, and oxidative stress in the cladoceran Ceriodaphnia reticulata. The smaller SiNP (LC5072 h: 105.5 µg/ml) were more lethal than the larger ones (LC5072 h >500 µg/ml). The 22 nm-sized SiNP decreased the number of molts and neonates, increased superoxide dismutase and inhibited glutathione S-transferase activities, while larger SiNP did not exert substantial effects on the organisms at the tested concentrations. In conclusion, SiNP toxicity depended on their size, and this information should be considered for regulatory purposes and to the development of safe-by-design nanoproducts to ultimately guarantee the environment protection.

Calcium Supplementation on Glucose Tolerance, Oxidative Stress, and Reproductive Outcomes of Diabetic Rats and Their Offspring

Diabetes mellitus increases the risk of obstetric complications, morbidity, and infant mortality. Controlled nutritional therapy with micronutrients has been employed. However, the effect of calcium (Ca2+) supplementation on diabetic pregnancy is unclear. We aimed to evaluate whether diabetic rats supplemented with Ca2+ during pregnancy present better glucose tolerance, redox status, embryonic and fetal development, newborn weight, and the prooxidant and antioxidant balance of male and female pups. For this, newborn rats received the beta-cytotoxic drug streptozotocin for inducing diabetes on the day of birth. In adulthood, these rats were mated and treated with Ca2+ twice a day from day 0 to day 20 of pregnancy. On day 17, the pregnant rats were submitted to the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). At the end of pregnancy, they were anesthetized and killed to collect blood and pancreas samples. The uterine horns were exposed for an evaluation of maternal reproductive outcomes and embryofetal development, and the offspring's liver samples were collected for redox status measurement. Nondiabetic and diabetic rats supplemented with Ca2+ showed no influence on glucose tolerance, redox status, insulin synthesis, serum calcium levels, and embryofetal losses. The reduced rate of newborns classified as adequate for gestational age (AGA) and higher rates of LGA (large) and small (LGA) newborns and higher -SH and GSH-Px antioxidant activities in female pups were observed in diabetic dams, regardless of supplementation. Thus, maternal supplementation caused no improvement in glucose tolerance, oxidative stress biomarkers, embryofetal growth and development, and antioxidants in pups from diabetic mothers.

Chemical sensors for imaging total cellular aliphatic aldehydes in live cells

Aliphatic aldehydes are reactive electrophilic carbonyls that cross-link with DNA and proteins leading to cellular toxicity and disease pathogenesis. This toxicity is due to the cooperative effect of multiple aldehydes via a common mechanism. Therefore, live-cell imaging of total aliphatic aldehydes, small-to-long chain (C1-C10), is highly desired to decipher their physiological and pathological functions. However, sensors for imaging total cellular aliphatic aldehydes are currently lacking despite their high concentrations (∼80 to >500 μM) inside cells. Herein, we report chemical sensors that generate a benzimidazole moiety upon reaction with aliphatic aldehydes of different chain lengths (C1-C10), resulting in turn-on fluorescence. These sensors exhibit high quantum yields, high dynamic range, and enable the quantification of changes in both the exogenous administration of aldehydes and endogenous real-time formation of aliphatic aldehydes in live mammalian cells. This tool has great potential to transform aldehyde research by illuminating cellular metabolites that have remained elusive in living systems.

Relation between interleukin-6 concentrations and oxidative status of HIV infected patients with /or at risk of Kaposi disease in Yaounde

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relation between interleukin-6 concentration and oxidative status of HIV infected patients with or at risk of Kaposi's disease in Yaoundé.

METHODS

We conducted a two-months cross-sectional study on 87 consenting HIV infected patients followed at the Day Hospital of the Yaoundé Central Hospital. Serum/plasma obtained after centrifugation of blood collected in dry/EDTA tubes was used for the determination of Human Herpes Virus-8 antigen (HHV-8) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) by the ELISA technique, and that of oxidative stress markers: Malondialdehyde (MDA) reduced Glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity by spectrophotometry.

RESULTS

Subjects belonging to the [40-50[year-old age group were mainly represented in our study population with 43.7%. The average age was 44.6 ± 10.4 years with extremes ranging from 26 to 72 years. The sex ratio was 0.24. Our population was mainly represented by people infected with HIV type I (90.8%) and 3.4% had developed clinical signs of Kaposi's disease. The prevalence of the HHV-8 antigen was 57.5%. Immune and oxidative parameters did not vary with age, sex and therapeutic line. We noted a significant increase in IL-6 concentrations in patients positive to the HHV-8 antigen for IL-6 concentrations < 37 (P = 0.005; CI= [0.40; 0.59]. MDA and GSH concentrations increased significantly with the HHV-8 infection (P < 0.0001; CI= [0.40; 0.59] and P < 0.0001; CI= [13.30;21.45], respectively). Total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) decreased significantly with HHV-8 infection (P = 0.004; CI= [-69.18; -13.78]). We noted a significant increase in MDA concentrations in patients taking their ARVs irregularly, (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed a weak positive correlation between IL-6 and MDA, a strong negative correlation between FRAP and MDA and a strong positive correlation between MDA and GSH highlighting the association of these few markers of oxidative stress and Il-6 to the risk of Kaposi's disease.

Pseudobombax parvifolium Hydroalcoholic Bark Extract: Chemical Characterisation and Cytotoxic, Mutagenic, and Preclinical Aspects Associated with a Protective Effect on Oxidative Stress

Plants have long been used in traditional medicine to treat illnesses. Nevertheless, their chemical diversity requires studies to establish the extract dosage and its safe use. Pseudobombax parvifolium, an endemic species of the Brazilian Caatinga biome, is commonly used in folk medicine, due to its anti-inflammatory properties related to cellular oxidative stress; however, its biological properties have scarcely been studied. In this study, we chemically characterized the P. parvifolium hydroalcoholic bark extract (EBHE) and evaluated its cytotoxic, mutagenic, and preclinical aspects, as well as its antioxidant effect. Our phytochemical analysis revealed a significative total polyphenol content and identified loliolide for the first time in this species. Cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and acute oral and repeated dose indicated no toxic effects on cell culture, Drosophila melanogaster, and Wistar rat exposure to different EBHE concentrations, respectively. Furthermore, we observed a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation and a mild hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect with repeated oral dosing of EBHE. Although there were no significant changes in glutathione content, we did observe a significant increase in superoxide dismutase at a dose of 400 mg/kg and in glutathione peroxidase at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. These findings suggest that EBHE has potential as a source of bioactive molecules, and it can be used safely in traditional medicine and in the development of herbal medicines for application in the public health system.

Assessment of Oxidative Stress by the Estimation of Lipid Peroxidation Marker Malondialdehyde (MDA) in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the oxidative stress-mediated lipid peroxidation end product malondialdehyde (MDA) in periodontitis using the available literature.

Materials and Methods

An electronic literature search was performed for the published articles from 2000 to 2022 in PubMed (MeSH), Science Direct, Wiley Online library, and cross-reference using specific keywords.

Results

The literature search identified 1,166 articles. After analyzing the abstracts of the obtained articles, the articles were excluded for the following reasons: duplicate studies (n = 395) and not relevant to the research question (n = 726). The remaining 45 articles were chosen for full-text evaluation. Finally, the present qualitative synthesis selected 34 articles that met the inclusion criteria for evaluation and removed the articles which did not meet the required criteria (n = 11). Out of these, 16 articles had coherent data for quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis used the standardized mean differences method at a 95% confidence interval by random-effects model. The periodontitis group displayed significantly higher MDA levels (P < 0.001) in gingival crevicular fluid, saliva, and serum samples of the studies analyzed than the healthy control.

Conclusion

The analyzed studies showed significantly higher MDA levels in various biological samples of patients with periodontitis, supporting the role of elevated oxidative stress and consequent lipid peroxidation in periodontitis.

The NADPH Oxidase Inhibitors Apocynin and Diphenyleneiodonium Protect Rats from LPS-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation

Inflammation is the body's response to insults, for instance, lung inflammation is generally caused by pathogens or by exposure to pollutants, irritants and toxins. This process involves many inflammatory cells such as epithelial cells, monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils. These cells produce and release inflammatory mediators such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, lipids and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Lung epithelial cells and phagocytes (monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils) produce ROS mainly by the NADPH oxidase NOX1 and NOX2, respectively. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two NADPH oxidase inhibitors, apocynin and diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammation in rats. Our results showed that apocynin and DPI attenuated the LPS-induced morphological and histological alterations of the lung, reduced edema and decreased lung permeability. The evaluation of oxidative stress markers in lung homogenates showed that apocynin and DPI inhibited LPS-induced NADPH oxidase activity, and restored superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity in the lung resulting in the reduction in LPS-induced protein and lipid oxidation. Additionally, apocynin and DPI decreased LPS-induced MPO activity in bronchoalveolar liquid and lung homogenates, TNF-α and IL-1β in rat plasma. NADPH oxidase inhibition could be a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory lung diseases.

Severe Diabetes Induction as a Generational Model for Growth Restriction of Rat

We used uncontrolled maternal diabetes as a model to provoke fetal growth restriction in the female in the first generation (F₁) and to evaluate reproductive outcomes and the possible changes in metabolic systems during pregnancy, as well as the repercussions at birth in the second generation (F₂). For this, nondiabetic and streptozotocin-induced severely diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats were mated to obtain female pups (F₁), which were classified as adequate (AGA) or small (SGA) for gestational weight. Afterward, we composed two groups: F₁ AGA from nondiabetic dams (Control) and F₁ SGA from severely diabetic dams (Restricted) (n minimum = 10 animals/groups). At adulthood, these rats were submitted to the oral glucose tolerance test, mated, and at day 17 of pregnancy, blood samples were collected to determine glucose and insulin levels for assessment of insulin resistance. At the end of the pregnancy, the blood and liver samples were collected to evaluate redox status markers, and reproductive, fetal, and placental outcomes were analyzed. Maternal diabetes was responsible for increased SGA rates and a lower percentage of AGA fetuses (F₁ generation). The restricted female pups from severely diabetic dams presented rapid neonatal catch-up growth, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance status before and during pregnancy. At term pregnancy of F₁ generation, oxidative stress status was observed in the maternal liver and blood samples. In addition, their offspring (F₂ generation) had lower fetal weight and placental efficiency, regardless of gender, which caused fetal growth restriction and confirmed the fetal programming influence.

Positive effects of leaves of Erodium glaucophyllum on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defence depletion induced by obesity

Medicinal plants are sources of natural antioxidants thanks to their secondary metabolites. Previous studies showed that administration of Erodium glaucophyllum (EG) (Geraniaceae family) was found to alleviate the deleterious effects of obesity-induced damage on liver, heart and kidney. This study, carried out on adult male Wistar rats, evaluates the inhibitory effects of supplementation with E. glaucophyllum extract on obesity. Under our experimental conditions, administration of Erodium aqueous extract decreased the total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides levels as well as ASAT, ALAT, LDH, PAL levels and TBARS concentration; and increased the (HDL) with the antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) in liver, heart and kidney, compared to HFD group. The anti-obesity effects of the Erodium extract in several organs were mainly due to the interaction of these bioactive molecules (polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannin compounds) and the enzyme system which could be determined by phytochemical analysis.

Flavonoid-enrich extract of Autranella congolensis (Sapotaceae) protects against aluminium chloride-mediated Alzheimer's disease-like oxidative stress in rat through the antioxidant properties

Oxidative stress (OS) is well established as a major event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. One of the mostly-researched classes of antioxidants to manage with overwhelming OS include flavonoids. This study was aimed to investigate the protective effect of A. congolensis extract (HEEAC) on AlCl₃-mediated AD-like OS and assess the contribution of its antioxidant flavonoid contents. Female Wistar (250-300 g) rats received orally 50 mg/Kg bw of AlCl₃, followed one hour later by doses (150 or 300 mg/kg) of HEEAC or vitamin E at 100 mg/kg daily for eight consecutive weeks. OS related biomarkers were evaluated at the end of treatment. To assess the contribution of flavonoid contents to its activity, HEEAC was fractioned using solvent of varying polarities. Flavonoid-rich extracts obtained were tested for their antioxidant capacity. AlCl₃ administration significantly lowered antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and aconitase levels, reduced total thiol and thiol protein levels and increased lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation levels in brain. When co-administrated with HEEAC at 150 mg/kg, all of these OS related biomarkers were significantly moderated. The efficacity of the extract was significantly higher than vitamin E. Flavonoid-rich fractions extracted mainly n-butanol fraction show strong antioxidant activity, which can be considered as the major antioxidant fraction of this plant. HEEAC protect brain cells against oxidative damage induced by AlCl₃, specifically through the strong antioxidant property of its n-butanol flavonoid-rich fraction, which may be a promising agent for preventing oxidative damage in AD.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Natural Product 'C-Phycocyanin' in Alleviating Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes via the Inhibition of Glycation Reaction in Rats

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder characterized by persistently elevated blood sugar levels. Chronic hyperglycemia enhances glucose-protein interactions, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which form irreversible cross-links with a wide variety of macromolecules, and accumulate rapidly in the body tissues. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic properties of C-phycocyanin (C-PC) obtained from Plectonema species against oxidative stress, glycation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rat. Forty-five days of C-PC administration decreased levels of triglycerides (TGs), blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), liver and kidney function indices, and raised body weight in diabetic rats. C-PC suppressed biochemical glycation markers, as well as serum carboxymethyllysine (CML) and fluorescent AGEs. Additionally, C-PC maintained the redox state by lowering lipid peroxidation and protein-bound carbonyl content (CC), enhancing the activity of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and renal antioxidant enzymes, and preserving retinal and renal histopathological characteristics. Thus, we infer that C-PC possesses antidiabetic and antiglycation effects in diabetic rats. C-PC may also act as an antidiabetic and antiglycation agent in vivo that may reduce the risk of secondary diabetic complications.

Antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of a polyphenol rich extract obtained from Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) seeds using optimized conditions in microwave-assisted extraction (MAE)

Functional foods have gained popularity in recent decades. They are exploited for their bioactive compounds like polyphenols, which are highly demanded in cosmetic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. However, extractive techniques and conditions used up to recently are almost obsolete and must be optimized for higher efficiency. The current study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of an optimized extract of Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) seeds. The optimal conditions for extracting polyphenolic compounds from okra seeds were determined using Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE). A Face Center Composite Design (FCCD) was used for optimization. Solvent/dry matter ratio, wavelength and time were considered while the response studied was the polyphenolic content. The extract obtained at optimal conditions was characterized using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy, then tested for its antioxidant, alpha amylase inhibitory and antidiabetic activities. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) permitted the determination of the optimal conditions for phenols extraction as: microwave power 330 W, with a solvent ratio of 97.04/1 mL/g for 9.5 min of extraction time. The optimized extract showed a phenolic content up to 86.37 ± 1.13 mg GAE/g containing quercetin and catechin as revealed by the TLC. Functional groups characteristic of polyphenols were identified on FTIR spectra, and the extract exhibited good in vitro antioxidant capacities with DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging capacity and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power Assay). An IC50 of 3.99 ± 0.15 μg/mL was obtained with the DPPH scavenging test. Alpha amylase inhibitory assay revealed that the optimized okra extract behaved as a non-competitive inhibitor of porcine pancreatic amylase with an IC50 of 484.17 ± 2.33 μg/mL. Antidiabetic activity of the extract was observed in streptozotocin-induced diabetic males Wistar rats, as shown by the fasting blood glucose levels, food intake, changes in body weight and serum lipid profile among others.

Effect of aqueous extract of Scorodophloeus zenkeri bark on chronic hyperglycemia and its complications in a diabetic Wistar rat model induced by streptozotocin

Diabetes and its complications represent a real major public health problem in the world because of its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Chronic hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, dyslipidemia and inflammation play a major role in the pathophysiology of diabetes and its vascular complications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of S. zenkeri on chronic hyperglycemia and its complications in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rat model. The barks of S. zenkeri were washed, dried and crushed; the powder was dissolved in distilled water (1:10 weight/volume) then macerated and the filtrate obtained was dried in an oven. Subsequently, after quantification of the bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, flavonoids and alkaloids) present in the extract, an in vivo study was conducted in an animal model of streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia. For this fact, the rats were divided into four groups of five rats as folow: a normoglycaemia group (NC), an untreated hyperglycaemia group (PC), two hyperglycaemia groups including a test group receiving by esophageal gavage, the aqueous extract of the bark of S zenkerii (AESZ) at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight and a control group receiving metformin at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight. During the treatment which lasted 21 days, the weights have been taken every two days and the blood sugar levels every week. At the end of the treatment, the rats were killed under light chloroform anesthesia; the plasma, hemolysate, serum and liver homogenate prepared were used to assay the biochemical parameters of oxidative stress (catalase, MDA), lipid profile (Triglycerides, total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol) and immunological (CRP and NFS). It emerged that the extract limited weight loss and caused a reduction in blood sugar of -26.59% after 21 days of treatment; the extract caused an increase in the activity of erythrocyte catalase and a reduction in the concentration of hepatic MDA, as well as a very marked reduction in inflammatory cells and CRP. The extract also caused a reduction in dyslipidemiawhich was materialized by a reduction in CRR, AC, AIP and an increase in CPI. These results suggest that this extract contains bioactive compounds capable of reducing chronic hyperglycemia while preventing its complications, thus justifying its traditional use in the management of diabetes.

Delayed increase of plasma selenoproteins and absence of side effect induced by infusion of pharmacological dose of sodium selenite in septic shock: Secondary analysis of a multicenter, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In sepsis, neutrophil respiratory bursts participate in endothelium damage, the first step to multiple organ failure. In plasma two antioxidant selenoenzymes, which protect the endothelium, decrease: selenoprotein-P, and to a lesser extent glutathione peroxidase (GPX3). Sodium selenite (Na₂SeO₃) is a Se donor, but also an oxidant chemotherapy drug depending on its concentration. In a previous published study, Na₂SeO₃ continuous infusion in septic shock patients at a pharmacological dose of 4 mg¹ Se/day on day-1, followed by a high nutritional dose of 1 mg Se/day during 9 days, showed no beneficial effect on weaning of catecholamine nor on survival. In this ancillary study, we report clinical and biological effects of such continuous infusion of Na₂SeO_3. METHODS: This was a multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind study on 60 patients. Na₂SeO₃ or placebo in continuous infusion as described above. Evolution with time of plasma Se, selenoprotein-P, GPX3, Organ dysfunction (sequential organ failure assessment SOFA scores, including PaO2/FiO2, for respiratory failure, and plasma lactate) and quality of life at 6 months (by SF36 scores) were analyzed using two-way (time, treatment) non-parametric repeated-measures analysis of variance (Friedman test).

MAIN RESULTS

At baseline, plasma Se was about a quarter of reference values. From baseline to day-4 plasma Se, selenoprotein-P and GPX3 significantly increased by 3.9, 2.7 and 1.8 respectively in the Na₂SeO₃ group as compared with placebo and remained elevated by 2.3, 2.7 and 2.1 at day-14 respectively (p < 0.001). Na₂SeO₃ did not affect global and organ by organ SOFA Scores and plasma lactate concentration at day-1 and later up to day-14. The evolution of PaO2/FiO2 until day-14 was similar in the two groups. Quality of life in the surviving patients at 6 months was similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Continuous infusion of Na₂SeO₃ at 4 mg Se at day-1 seems to have neither beneficial nor toxic effect at day-1 or later and induces a late increase of selenoprotein-P at day-4. Preclinical studies are required to confirm the use of Na₂SeO₃ as a cytotoxic drug against neutrophils and protection of the endothelium by selenoprotein-P.

Lipomodulatory and anti-oxidative stress effects of a polyherbal formulation based on garlic and avocado seed extracts on high fat high sucrose diet fed rats

Objective

To determine antioxidant potentials of Allium sativum and Persea americana seeds extracts and three formulation-based extracts in vitro, and to evaluate the effects of the best formulation on oxidative stress and dyslipidemia on rats fed with high fat and high sucrose diet (HFHSD).

Methods

Aqueous extracts of Allium sativum, Persia. americana and three formulations were mixed at various portions (A. s/P. a; w/w): F (1:1), F (3: 1), and F(1:3). They were then tested for their antioxidant potentials in vitro using FRAP, DPPH and NO radicals to identify the best formulation. Four hundred (400) mg/kg b.w. of formulation F(1:1) were administered once daily for 21 days to rats previously fed with HFHSD for 8 weeks. Standard diet, vitamin E, and Atorvastatin were used as controls. After 21 days, body weight, blood glucose, lipid markers, activities of transaminases and markers of the antioxidant systems were assessed.

Results

The Formulation F(1:1) showed the best in vitro activity with IC₅₀ values of 6.5 and 2.23 mg/mL respectively for FRAP and DPPH- radical scavenging capacity. HFHSD caused a depletion of antioxidants associated with an increase of pro-oxidants and all the lipid markers except HDL-c Treatment with F(1:1) significantly increased TAC, SOD, and catalase activities, while MDA, protein carbonyls, and NO levels decreased (p < 0.05). Formulation F(1:1) decreased triglycerides (119.88 ± 4.25 mg/dL) and LDL-c (3.78 ± 0.66 mg/dL) levels and significantly increased the HDL-c level: (108.07 ± 6.29 mg/mL). Furthermore, Formulation F(1:1) significantly caused weight loss (2.31%), reduced blood glucose levels (27.38%) and ALT activity.

Conclusion

The formulation F(1:1) could be a good candidate for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress, dyslipidemia and features of metabolic syndrome.

Effect of Medicago sativa compared To 17β-oestradiol on osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice

Phytoestrogens, with a wide range of beneficial effects, prevent bone loss caused by oestrogen deficiency.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Medicago sativa ethanol extract compared to 17β-oestradiol on osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice.The study was carried out on female mice, divided into five groups: control mice (GI), Medicago sativa treated mice (0.75 g/kg BW/day) (GII), ovariectomized mice (GIII) and ovariectomized mice treated either with Medicago sativa (GIV) or with 17β-oestradiol (50 µg/Kg BW/day) (GV).Our results showed that Medicago sativa or 17β-oestradiol treatments significantly attenuated perturbations of mineral levels, histological changes and oxidative stress in the femurs of ovariectomized mice.Medicago sativa prevented bone loss induced by oestrogen deficiency, which could be attributed to its richness in kaempferol, syringic acid, naringenin and myrictin. Its effects were more beneficial or similar compared to 17β-oestradiol.

Effect of Sublethal Copper Overload on Cholesterol De Novo Synthesis in Undifferentiated Neuronal Cells

Although copper (Cu) is an essential trace metal for cells, it can induce harmful effects as it participates in the Fenton reaction. Involuntary exposure to Cu overload is much more common than expected and has been linked with neurodegeneration, particularly with Alzheimer's disease (AD) evidenced by a positive correlation between free Cu in plasma and the severity of the disease. It has been suggested that Cu imbalance alters cholesterol (Chol) homeostasis and that high membrane Chol promotes the amyloidogenic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) secreting the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide. Despite the wide knowledge on the effects of Cu in mature brain metabolism, the consequence of its overload on immature neurons remains unknown. Therefore, we used an undifferentiated human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) to analyze the effect of sublethal concentrations of Cu on 1- de novo Chol synthesis and membrane distribution; 2-APP levels in cells and its distribution in membrane rafts; 3-the levels of Aβ in the culture medium. Our results demonstrated that Cu increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) and favors Chol de novo synthesis in both ROS-dependent and independent manners. Also, at least part of these effects was due to the activation of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl CoA reductase (HMGCR). In addition, Cu increases the Chol/PL ratio in the cellular membranes, specifically Chol content in membrane rafts. We found no changes in total APP cell levels; however, its presence in membrane rafts increases with the consequent increase of Aβ in the culture medium. We conclude that Cu overload favors Chol de novo synthesis in both ROS-dependent and independent manners, being at least in part, responsible for the high Chol levels found in the cell membrane and membrane rafts. These may promote the redistribution of APP into the rafts, favoring the amyloidogenic processing of this protein and increasing the levels of Aβ.

Pharmacokinetics and Therapeutic Potential of Teucrium polium against Liver Damage Associated Hepatotoxicity and Oxidative Injury in Rats: Computational, Biochemical and Histological Studies

This study investigated the druggability, pharmacokinetics and ethyl acetate extract of Teucrium polium (EA T. polium) and the protective effect against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) induced liver cirrhosis in rats. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and scavenging activity of the extract were examined. The in vivo protective study was based on the use of an animal model of CCl₄-induced liver cirrhosis. Four groups of rats have been used: Group I: control rats; Group II: received CCl₄ in olive oil (0.5 mL/kg); Group III: received the EA T. polium (25 mg/kg) of pretreatment for seven days by gavage then CCl₄ in olive oil by gavage for 15 days. Group IV: received the EA of T. polium for seven days (25 mg/kg). EA T. polium was found to possess significant antioxidant capacity. CCl₄ caused a hepatotoxicity associated increase in both levels of AST and ALT, which were reduced back to normal values following EA T. polium pretreatment. Hepatotoxicity associated structural modifications of liver tissues and increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dienes (CD) and carbonyl proteins (CP), associated decreases in several assessed antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT). The in vivo findings on the protective effect of T. polium were supported by its druggability, its pharmacokinetic properties and molecular docking assays. These results confirm the modulatory antioxidant and hepatoprotective potential of T. polium in this experimental liver cirrhosis model. T. polium phytochemicals are good candidates for further pharmaceutical explorations and drug design.