Alterations in mitochondrial membrane fluidity by lipid peroxidation products

Bioaccumulation potentials of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in recreational fisheries: Occurrence, health risk assessment and oxidative stress biomarkers in coastal Biscayne Bay

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic, highly fluorinated, and emerging chemicals that are reported to be used for both industrial and domestic applications. Several PFAS have demonstrated persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic tendencies in marine organisms. Therefore, this research aims to characterize and quantify these compounds in both recreational fisheries and surface water samples, including estimating their bioaccumulation potentials. In addition, we assessed the potential contribution of biomonitoring tools such as oxidative stressors and morphological index on fish and ecological health. Finally, human health risk assessment was performed based on available toxicological data on limited PFAS. All PFAS were detected in at least one sample except for N-EtFOSAA in lobster which was below the method detection limit. ƩPFAS body burden ranged from 0.15 to 3.40 ng/g wet weight (ww) in blackfin tuna samples and 0.37-5.15 ng/g ww in lobster samples, respectively. Wilcoxon rank paired test (α = 0.05) shows that there is statistical significance (ρ < 0.05) of ƩPFAS between species. Bioaccumulation factors (BAF) suggest an increasing trend in PFAS classes (PFCAs < PFSAs < FTSs), with higher BAFs observed in tuna compared to lobster. Long-chain PFESAs and FASAA were reported at higher concentrations in lobster compared to Blackfin tuna due to their bioavailability through sediment-sorption interactions. Although Fulton's condition factor (FCF) indicates healthy fish conditions, oxidative stress biomarkers suggest that tuna and lobster might be under stress, which can weaken their immune system against exposure to emerging contaminants such as PFAS. Hazard risk (HR) suggests a low risk to human health based on the consumption of the studied species; however, the risk of contaminant exposure may be higher than estimated. This study is aimed at improving food safety by providing better understanding of how PFAS infiltrate into human diet and incorporating data on influence of contaminant exposure and environmental stressors on marine health.

Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharides alleviate aflatoxin B1-induced liver inflammation in ducks involving in remodeling gut microbiota and regulating SCFAs transport via the gut-liver axis

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the most widespread contaminants in agricultural commodities. Pleurotus eryngii (PE) is widely used as a feed additive for its anti-inflammatory properties, and its major active substance is believed to be polysaccharides. This study aims to explore the underlying mechanism of dietary PE polysaccharides alleviating AFB1-induced toxicity in ducks. The major monosaccharide components of PE polysaccharides were identified as glucose, mannose, galactose, glucuronic acid, and fucose. The results showed that dietary PE polysaccharides could alleviate liver inflammation, alleviate intestinal barrier dysfunction, and change the imbalanced gut microbiota induced by AFB1 in ducks. However, PE polysaccharides failed to exert protective roles on the liver and intestine injury induced by AFB1 in antibiotic-treated ducks. The PE + AFB1-originated microbiota showed a positive effect on intestinal barrier and inflammation, the SCFAs transport via the gut-liver axis, and liver inflammation compared with the AFB1-originated microbiota in ducks. These findings provided a possible mechanism that PE polysaccharides alleviated AFB1-induced liver inflammation in ducks by remodeling gut microbiota, regulating microbiota-derived SCFAs transport via the gut-liver axis, and inhibiting inflammatory gene expressions in the liver, which may provide new insight for therapeutic methods against AFB1 exposure in animals.

Exploring the mechanism underlying the antifungal activity of chitosan-based ZnO, CuO, and SiO2 nanocomposites as nanopesticides against Fusarium solani and Alternaria solani

Chitosan-based nanocomposites (CS NCs) are gaining considerable attention as multifaceted antifungal agents. This study investigated the antifungal activity of NCs against two phytopathogenic strains: Fusarium solani (F. solani) and Alternaria solani (A. solani). Moreover, it sheds light on their underlying mechanisms of action. The NCs, CS-ZnO, CS-CuO, and CS-SiO2, were characterized using advanced methods. Dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering techniques revealed their size range (60-170 nm) and cationic nature, as indicated by the positive zeta potential values (from +16 to +22 mV). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the morphology of the NCs as agglomerates formed between the chitosan and oxide components. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed crystalline structures with specific peaks indicating their constituents. Antifungal assessments using the agar diffusion technique demonstrated significant inhibitory effects of the NCs on both fungal strains (1.5 to 4-fold), surpassing the performance of the positive control, nystatin. Notably, the NCs exhibited superior antifungal potency, with CS-ZnO NCs being the most effective. A. solani was the most sensitive strain to the studied agents. Furthermore, the tested NCs induced oxidative stress in fungal cells, which elevated stress biomarker levels, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and protein carbonyl content (PCC), 2.5 and 6-fold for the most active CS-CuO in F. solani respectively. Additionally, they triggered membrane lipid peroxidation up to 3-fold higher compared to control, a process that potentially compromises membrane integrity. Laurdan fluorescence spectroscopy highlighted alterations in the molecular organization of fungal cell membranes induced by the NCs. CS-CuO NCs induced a membrane rigidifying effect, while CS-SiO2 and CS-ZnO could rigidify membranes in A. solani and fluidize them in F. solani. In summary, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the interactions of CS-based NCs with two fungal strains, showing their antifungal activity and offering insights into their mechanisms of action. These findings emphasize the potential of these NCs as effective and versatile antifungal agents.

The impact of bacillus pumilus TS2 isolated from yaks on growth performance, gut microbial community, antioxidant activity, and cytokines related to immunity and inflammation in broilers

Intensive poultry farming faces challenges like gut inflammation in the absence of antibiotics, resulting in reduced productivity, heightened susceptibility to enteric diseases, and other complications. Alternative strategies are needed to manage inflammation and maintain sustainable poultry production. Yaks living in high-altitude hypoxic environments have specialized gut microbes. However, yak probiotics remain largely uncharacterized. We previously isolated a strain of Bacillus pumilus (named TS2) from yaks and demonstrated its potential as a probiotic in vitro. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the in vivo growth-promoting, antioxidant, immune, and anti-inflammatory effects of Bacillus pumilus isolated from yaks in broilers. We demonstrated the safety of TS2 isolated from yaks in broilers. Furthermore, we found that TS2 increased the average daily weight gain (ADWG) and reduced the feed conversion ratio (FCR). Supplementation with TS2 also improved the mucosal morphology, the ratio of villi to crypt cells, and enzyme activity. High-throughput sequencing showed that the abundance of Lactobacillus was higher in the TS2 treated broilers. Importantly, the serum level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was reduced and the levels of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were increased in the low-dose TS2 group, while the inflammatory factors interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were downregulated compared with the control group. We demonstrated that TS2 supplementation can increase the overall growth performance and ameliorate the blood parameters related to inflammation and immunity in broilers.

The Metabolic Syndrome, a Human Disease

This review focuses on the question of metabolic syndrome (MS) being a complex, but essentially monophyletic, galaxy of associated diseases/disorders, or just a syndrome of related but rather independent pathologies. The human nature of MS (its exceptionality in Nature and its close interdependence with human action and evolution) is presented and discussed. The text also describes the close interdependence of its components, with special emphasis on the description of their interrelations (including their syndromic development and recruitment), as well as their consequences upon energy handling and partition. The main theories on MS's origin and development are presented in relation to hepatic steatosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, but encompass most of the MS components described so far. The differential effects of sex and its biological consequences are considered under the light of human social needs and evolution, which are also directly related to MS epidemiology, severity, and relations with senescence. The triggering and maintenance factors of MS are discussed, with especial emphasis on inflammation, a complex process affecting different levels of organization and which is a critical element for MS development. Inflammation is also related to the operation of connective tissue (including the adipose organ) and the widely studied and acknowledged influence of diet. The role of diet composition, including the transcendence of the anaplerotic maintenance of the Krebs cycle from dietary amino acid supply (and its timing), is developed in the context of testosterone and β-estradiol control of the insulin-glycaemia hepatic core system of carbohydrate-triacylglycerol energy handling. The high probability of MS acting as a unique complex biological control system (essentially monophyletic) is presented, together with additional perspectives/considerations on the treatment of this 'very' human disease.

The P4' Peptide-Carrying Bacillus subtilis in Cottonseed Meal Improves the Chinese Mitten Crab Eriocheir sinensis Innate Immunity, Redox Defense, and Growth Performance

This study developed a recombinant Bacillus subtilis to carry the LGSPDVIVIR peptide (cmP4) isolated from the hydrolyzed products of cottonseed meal with excellent antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties in vitro. It was carried as a tandem of five cmP4 peptides (cmP4') to be stably expressed on a large scale. Then, its effectiveness was evaluated in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) based on growth performance, redox defense, and innate immunity. A total of 280 crabs (mean body weight: 41.40 ± 0.14) were randomly assigned to seven diets including a control one (without B. subtilis) and six experimental ones with different doses (107,108, and 109 CFU/kg) of unmodified and recombinant B. subtilis, respectively, for 12 weeks. Each diet was tested in four tanks of crabs (10/tank). In terms of bacterial dosages, the final weight (FW), weight gain (WG), hemolymph and hepatopancreatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lysosome (LZM), acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and hepatopancreatic transcriptions of cat, mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (mtmnsod), thioredoxin-1 (trx1), and prophenoloxidase (propo) all increased significantly with increasing B. subtilis dosages, while hemolymph and hepatopancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the transcriptions of toll like receptors (tlrs), NF-κB-like transcription factor (relish), and lipopolysaccharide-induced TNF-α factor (litaf) all decreased remarkably. In terms of bacterial species, the recombinant B. subtilis group obtained significantly high values of FW, WG, hemolymph, and hepatopancreatic activities of SOD, CAT, LZM, ACP, and AKP, and the transcriptions of mtmnsod, peroxiredoxin 6 (prx6), and propo compared with the unmodified B. subtilis, while opposite results were noted in hemolymph and hepatopancreatic MDA content and the transcriptions of tlrs, relish, and litaf. These results indicated that dietary supplementation with 109 CFU/kg of recombinant B. subtilis can improve the growth performance, redox defense, and nonspecific immunity of E. sinensis.

Pitaya Juice Consumption Protects against Oxidative Damage Induced by Aflatoxin B1

Mycotoxins are toxic fungal metabolites and are responsible for contaminating several foods. The intake of foods contaminated by these substances is related to hepatotoxicity and carcinogenic effects, possibly due to increasing oxidative stress. The current study evaluated Pitaya fruit juice's antioxidant effects on oxidative damage aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced. Rats received 1.5 mL of Pitaya juice via gavage (for 30 days), and on the 31st day, they received AFB1 (250 µg/kg, via gavage). Forty-eight hours after the AFB1 dose, rats were euthanized for dosages of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP); dosage of oxidative markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS), reactive species (RS)) and antioxidant defenses (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities and Glutathione (GSH)) levels in the liver; and detection of Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp-70) and nuclear factor- erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) immunocontent in the liver. Our results indicated that the Pitaya juice reduced ALP activity. Further, rats exposed to AFB1 experienced liver damage due to the increase in TBARS, RS, and Hsp-70 and the reduction in CAT, GSH, and Nrf2. Pitaya juice could, however, protect against these damages. Finally, these results indicated that pre-treatment with Pitaya juice was effective against the oxidative damage induced. However, other aspects may be elucidated in the future to discover more targets of its action against mycotoxicosis.

Using mass spectrometry imaging to visualize age-related subcellular disruption

Metabolic homeostasis balances the production and consumption of energetic molecules to maintain active, healthy cells. Cellular stress, which disrupts metabolism and leads to the loss of cellular homeostasis, is important in age-related diseases. We focus here on the role of organelle dysfunction in age-related diseases, including the roles of energy deficiencies, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, changes in metabolic flux in aging (e.g., Ca2+ and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), and alterations in the endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria contact sites that regulate the trafficking of metabolites. Tools for single-cell resolution of metabolite pools and metabolic flux in animal models of aging and age-related diseases are urgently needed. High-resolution mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) provides a revolutionary approach for capturing the metabolic states of individual cells and cellular interactions without the dissociation of tissues. mass spectrometry imaging can be a powerful tool to elucidate the role of stress-induced cellular dysfunction in aging.

Plasma membrane and brain dysfunction of the old: Do we age from our membranes?

One of the characteristics of aging is a gradual hypo-responsiveness of cells to extrinsic stimuli, mainly evident in the pathways that are under hormone control, both in the brain and in peripheral tissues. Age-related resistance, i.e., reduced response of receptors to their ligands, has been shown to Insulin and also to leptin, thyroid hormones and glucocorticoids. In addition, lower activity has been reported in aging for ß-adrenergic receptors, adenosine A2B receptor, and several other G-protein-coupled receptors. One of the mechanisms proposed to explain the loss of sensitivity to hormones and neurotransmitters with age is the loss of receptors, which has been observed in several tissues. Another mechanism that is finding more and more experimental support is related to the changes that occur with age in the lipid composition of the neuronal plasma membrane, which are responsible for changes in the receptors’ coupling efficiency to ligands, signal attenuation and pathway desensitization. In fact, recent works have shown that altered membrane composition—as occurs during neuronal aging—underlies reduced response to glutamate, to the neurotrophin BDNF, and to insulin, all these leading to cognition decay and epigenetic alterations in the old. In this review we present evidence that altered functions of membrane receptors due to altered plasma membrane properties may be a triggering factor in physiological decline, decreased brain function, and increased vulnerability to neuropathology in aging.

Mechanism of effects of nickel or nickel compounds on intestinal mucosal barrier

As an important metal in industry, national defense, and production, nickel widely exists in nature and is also a necessary trace element for human beings and animals. Nickel deficiency will affect the growth and development of animals, the contents of related active substances, enzymes and other essential elements in vivo. However, excessive nickel or longer nickel exposure can induce excessive free radicals (reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen) in the body, which can lead to a variety of cell damage, apoptosis and canceration, and ultimately pose negative effects on the health of the body. Among them, the intestinal tract, as the largest interface between the body and the external environment, greatly increases the contact probability between nickel or nickel compounds and the intestinal mucosal barrier, thus, the intestinal structure and function are also more vulnerable to nickel damage, leading to a series of related diseases such as enteritis. Therefore, this paper briefly analyzed the damage mechanism of nickel or its compounds to the intestinal tract from the perspective of four intestinal mucosal barriers: mechanical barrier, immune barrier, microbial barrier and chemical barrier, we hope to make a certain theoretical contribution to the further research and the prevention and treatment of nickel related diseases.

Protective Effects of Several Common Amino Acids, Vitamins, Organic Acids, Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids against Hepatocyte Damage Caused by Alcohol

With the increase in alcohol consumption, more and more people are suffering from alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Therefore, it is necessary to elaborate the pathogenesis of ALD from the aspects of alcohol metabolism and harm. In this study, we established an alcoholic liver injury model in vitro by inducing L02 cells with different concentration of ethanol and acetaldehyde. Results showed that the metabolism of ethanol can promote the content of ROS, MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, and caspase 3, causing oxidative and inflammatory stress and membrane permeability changes. However, unmetabolized ethanol and acetaldehyde had little effect on cell membrane permeability and inflammation, indicating that ethanol metabolites were the main reason for cell membrane damage. We also evaluated the effects of amino acids (taurine and methionine), vitamins (E and vitamin D), organic acids (malic acid and citric acid), flavonoids (rutin and quercetin), and phenolic acids (ferulic acid and chlorogenic acid) on alcohol-induced cell membrane damage of L02 cells. Chlorogenic acid, taurine, vitamin E, and citric acid had remarkable effects on improving cell membrane damage. Malic acid, rutin, quercetin, and ferulic acid had obvious therapeutic effects, while vitamin D and methionine had poor therapeutic effects. The relationship between the structure and effect of active ingredients can be further studied to reveal the mechanism of action, and monomers can be combined to explore whether there is a synergistic effect between functional components, in order to provide a certain theoretical basis for the actual study of liver protection.

Assessment of Semen Respiratory Activity of Domesticated Species before and after Cryopreservation: Boars, Bulls, Stallions, Reindeers and Roosters

Simple Summary

Artificial insemination is actively used in animal husbandry. It is important to know the quality of the sperm for artificial insemination. One of the indicators of sperm quality can be an assessment of energy metabolism, since energy is needed for sperm to move and fertilize the egg. We studied the respiration rate in spermatozoa of different animal species: bulls, stallions, boars, reindeer and roosters. To determine the production of energy (ATP), the substance 2.4-dinetrophenol (2.4-DNP) was used, which stopped the production of ATP. Semen was assessed before and after freezing. The evaluation showed the same response to the addition of 2.4-DNP to the semen of different species, as well as a sufficient relationship between the reaction of semen respiration to the addition of 2.4-DNP and the fertilizing ability of sperm. At the same time, no relationship was found between the respiratory rate and fertility. The 2.4-DNP test can be a suitable additional measure of sperm quality.

Abstract

To assess sperm quality, it is important to evaluate energy metabolism. The test substance 2.4-dinitrophenol (2.4-DNP) is an agent for destroying oxidative phosphorylation. 2.4-DNP shuts off the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from oxidation and then, the respiration rate increases. If the respiratory chain is damaged, there is little or no response to adding 2.4-DNP. The aim of this study was to analyze the respiratory activity and oxidative phosphorylation in semen before and after freezing and compare the obtained data with the fertilizing ability of sperm. There was a reduction in sperm respiration rates in all species after thawing. The respiration of spermatozoa of boars, bulls, stallions, reindeers and chicken showed responses to 2.4-dinitrophenol. The only difference is in the strength of the response to the test substance. After freezing and thawing, respiratory stimulation by 2.4-DNP decreased. The results of our study show that respiration rate is not correlated with pregnancy rates and egg fertility. However, there was a high correlation between the stimulation of respiration by 2.4-dinitrophenol and pregnancy rates. The test for an increase in respiration rate after adding 2.4-dinitrophenol could be a suitable test of the fertilizing ability of sperm.

Effects of embryo injected with ochratoxins A on hatching quality and jejunum antioxidant capacity of ducks at hatching

Numerous studies have shown that ochratoxins A (OTA) exerts diverse toxicological effects, namely, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, genotoxicity, enterotoxicity, and immunotoxicity. The main objective of this study was to investigate the influence of embryonic exposure to OTA by different injection times and OTA doses on hatching quality and jejunal antioxidant capacity of ducks at hatching. In total, 480 fertilized eggs were weighed and randomly assigned into a 4 × 4 factorial design including four OTA doses (0, 2, 4, and 8 ng/g egg) on 8, 13, 18, and 23 of embryonic development (E8, E13, E18, and E23). Each treatment included 6 repeats with 5 eggs per repeat. The results showed that the injection time affected the hatching weight (P < 0.0001). The relative length of the jejunum and ileum on E18 and E23 was lower than on E8 and E13 (P < 0.05). Injection time, doses, and their interaction had no effect on jejunum morphology, namely, villous height (Vh), crypt depth (Cd), and villous height/crypt depth ratio Vh/Cd (P > 0.05). The injection time affected the activities of Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P < 0.0001), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (P < 0.05) and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P < 0.0001). The activity of SOD and T-AOC activities in the jejunum of ducklings injected with OTA at the E8 and E13 was lower than that injected at the E18 (P < 0.05). The highest MDA content was observed in ducklings injected with OTA at the E13 (P < 0.05). The injection time (P < 0.0001), OTA doses and their interaction affected the contents of IL-1β (P < 0.05), which significantly increased especially on E13. In conclusion, the embryo injected with ochratoxins A affected the hatching weight, the relative length of jejunum and ileum, decreased the antioxidant capacity and increased the content of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β of the jejunum.

Excess DHA Induces Liver Injury via Lipid Peroxidation and Gut Microbiota-Derived Lipopolysaccharide in Zebrafish

Being highly unsaturated, n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) are prone to lipid peroxidation. In this study, zebrafish were fed with low-fat diet (LFD), high-fat diet (HFD), or 2% DHA-supplemented HFD (HFDHA2.0). To study the possible negative effects of the high level of dietary DHA, growth rates, blood chemistry, liver histology, hepatic oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammatory processes were assessed. The cell studies were used to quantify the effects of DHA and antioxidant on cellular lipid peroxidation and viability. The possible interaction between gut microbiota and zebrafish host was evaluated in vitro. HFDHA2.0 had no effect on hepatic lipid level but induced liver injury, oxidative stress, and hepatocellular apoptosis, including intrinsic and death receptor-induced apoptosis. Besides, the inclusion of 2% DHA in HFD increased the abundance of Proteobacteria in gut microbiota and serum endotoxin level. In the zebrafish liver cell model, DHA activated intrinsic apoptosis while the antioxidant 4-hydroxy-Tempo (tempo) inhibited the pro-apoptotic negative effects of DHA. The apoptosis induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was unaffected by the addition of tempo. In conclusion, the excess DHA supplementation generates hepatocellular apoptosis-related injury to the liver. The processes might propagate along at least two routes, involving lipid peroxidation and gut microbiota-generated LPS.

Serum miR-96-5p is a novel and non-invasive marker of acute myocardial infarction associated with coronary artery disease

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a severe cardiovascular disease. AMI associated with coronary artery disease (AMI-CAD) is a subtype of AMI, composed of AMI patients caused by CAD. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of miR-96-5p in AMI induced by coronary artery disease. Expression of miR-96-5p and BCL2L13 was evaluated by serum samples and cells utilizing Western blot and RT-qPCR assays. The diagnostic value of miR-96-5p in AMI-CAD was analyzed with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The correlation between miR-96-5p and BCL2L13 was examined by Spearman's correlation analysis. The level of oxidative stress and apoptosis were estimated via relative commercial kit, flow cytometry apoptosis assay and TUNEL staining assay. Our study discovered that miR-96-5p was down-regulated while BCL2L13 was up-regulated in patients with AMI-CAD. miR-96-5p was a potential diagnostic parameter, which may help distinguish AMI-CAD patients from healthy controls. In vitro experiments, miR-96-5p expression was down regulated while BCL2L13 was up-regulated in hypoxic cardiomyocytes. After confirming the targeted link of miR-96-5p to BCL2L13 using luciferase reporter and RNA pull down assays, we discovered that miR-96-5p overexpression may restore oxidative stress and cell apoptosis induced by hypoxia treatment in H9c2 cells; meanwhile, co-transfection with BCL2L13 overexpressing plasmid might partly countervail the ameliorative effects of miR-96-5p on oxidative stress and apoptosis. Collectively, miR-96-5p may function as a potential diagnostic biomarker for AMI-CAD patients, and the up-regulation of miR-96-5p would ameliorate AMI-associated cardiomyocytes injury by targeting BCL2L13, hence contributing to the clinical treatment of AMI-CAD.

Labeling and measuring stressed mitochondria using a PINK1-based ratiometric fluorescent sensor

Mitochondria are essential organelles that carry out a number of pivotal metabolic processes and maintain cellular homeostasis. Mitochondrial dysfunction caused by various stresses is associated with many diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, cancer, heart failure, neurodegenerative disorders, and aging. Therefore, it is important to understand the stimuli that induce mitochondrial stress. However, broad analysis of mitochondrial stress has not been carried out to date. Here, we present a set of fluorescent tools, called mito-Pain (mitochondrial PINK1 accumulation index), which enable the labeling of stressed mitochondria. Mito-Pain uses PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) stabilization on mitochondria and quantifies mitochondrial stress levels by comparison with PINK1-GFP, which is stabilized under mitochondrial stress, and RFP-Omp25, which is constitutively localized on mitochondria. To identify compounds that induce mitochondrial stress, we screened a library of 3374 compounds using mito-Pain and identified 57 compounds as mitochondrial stress inducers. Furthermore, we classified each compound into several categories based on mitochondrial response: depolarization, mitochondrial morphology, or Parkin recruitment. Parkin recruitment to mitochondria was often associated with mitochondrial depolarization and aggregation, suggesting that Parkin is recruited to heavily damaged mitochondria. In addition, many of the compounds led to various mitochondrial morphological changes, including fragmentation, aggregation, elongation, and swelling, with or without Parkin recruitment or mitochondrial depolarization. We also found that several compounds induced an ectopic response of Parkin, leading to the formation of cytosolic puncta dependent on PINK1. Thus, mito-Pain enables the detection of stressed mitochondria under a wide variety of conditions and provides insights into mitochondrial quality control systems.

Melatonin: Regulation of Biomolecular Condensates in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Biomolecular condensates are membraneless organelles (MLOs) that form dynamic, chemically distinct subcellular compartments organizing macromolecules such as proteins, RNA, and DNA in unicellular prokaryotic bacteria and complex eukaryotic cells. Separated from surrounding environments, MLOs in the nucleoplasm, cytoplasm, and mitochondria assemble by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) into transient, non-static, liquid-like droplets that regulate essential molecular functions. LLPS is primarily controlled by post-translational modifications (PTMs) that fine-tune the balance between attractive and repulsive charge states and/or binding motifs of proteins. Aberrant phase separation due to dysregulated membrane lipid rafts and/or PTMs, as well as the absence of adequate hydrotropic small molecules such as ATP, or the presence of specific RNA proteins can cause pathological protein aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders. Melatonin may exert a dominant influence over phase separation in biomolecular condensates by optimizing membrane and MLO interdependent reactions through stabilizing lipid raft domains, reducing line tension, and maintaining negative membrane curvature and fluidity. As a potent antioxidant, melatonin protects cardiolipin and other membrane lipids from peroxidation cascades, supporting protein trafficking, signaling, ion channel activities, and ATPase functionality during condensate coacervation or dissolution. Melatonin may even control condensate LLPS through PTM and balance mRNA- and RNA-binding protein composition by regulating N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications. There is currently a lack of pharmaceuticals targeting neurodegenerative disorders via the regulation of phase separation. The potential of melatonin in the modulation of biomolecular condensate in the attenuation of aberrant condensate aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders is discussed in this review.

A Mixed Comparisons of Different Intensities and Types of Physical Exercise in Patients With Diseases Related to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

The balance of oxidative and antioxidant systems is of great importance to the human body. Physical exercise, as one of the ways to improve physical health, seems to modulate this balance. However, different intensities and types of physical exercise have other effects on the treatment of unhealthy people. To understand the impact of exercise training on the oxidative and antioxidant systems of adults with oxidative stress-related disorders, a network meta-analysis was used to compare the mixed effects of different intensities and types of exercise training. This systematic review included all eligible RCTs from PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. Eleven of the studies met the inclusion criteria (at study completion, n = 666 participants). Seven studies reported that the level of MDA decreased significantly after exercise (p < 0.05), and 3 studies reported that the level of SOD increased significantly after exercise (p < 0.05). In conclusion, long-term high-intensity aerobic training and Tai Chi or Yoga can effectively improve oxidative stress in unhealthy people. In addition, different types of diseases on the effect of exercise intervention seems to be other, diabetes and chronic kidney patients using moderate-intensity aerobic training or Tai chi and Yoga effect are better; Moderate-intensity aerobic training had a better impact on OS improvement in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and severe depression. However, more research is needed to determine the effects of different levels and types of physical activity on oxidative stress in unhealthy populations.

Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO identifier: CRD42021242025. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.

Effects of Dietary Food Components on Cognitive Functions in Older Adults

Population aging has recently been an important issue as the number of elderly people is growing worldwide every year, and the extension of social security costs is financially costly. The increase in the number of elderly people with cognitive decline is a serious problem related to the aging of populations. Therefore, it is necessary to consider not only physical care but also cognitive patterns in the future care of older adults. Since food contains a variety of bioactive substances, dietary patterns may help improve age-related cognitive decline. However, the relationship between cognitive function and individual food components remains ambiguous as no clear efficacy or mechanism has been confirmed. Against this background, this review summarizes previous reports on the biological process of cognitive decline in the elderly and the relationship between individual compounds in foods and cognitive function, as well as the role of individual components of food in cognitive function, in the following order: lipids, carotenoids, vitamins, phenolic compounds, amino acids, peptides, and proteins. Based on the research presented in this review, a proper diet that preserves cognitive function has the potential to improve age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Hopefully, this review will help to trigger the development of new foods and technologies that improve aging and cognitive functions and extend the healthy life span.

Antioxidant Properties of Ergosterol and Its Role in Yeast Resistance to Oxidation

Although the functions and structural roles of sterols have been the subject of numerous studies, the reasons for the diversity of sterols in the different eukaryotic kingdoms remain unclear. It is thought that the specificity of sterols is linked to unidentified supplementary functions that could enable organisms to be better adapted to their environment. Ergosterol is accumulated by late branching fungi that encounter oxidative perturbations in their interfacial habitats. Here, we investigated the antioxidant properties of ergosterol using in vivo, in vitro, and in silico approaches. The results showed that ergosterol is involved in yeast resistance to tert-butyl hydroperoxide and protects lipids against oxidation in liposomes. A computational study based on quantum chemistry revealed that this protection could be related to its antioxidant properties operating through an electron transfer followed by a proton transfer mechanism. This study demonstrates the antioxidant role of ergosterol and proposes knowledge elements to explain the specific accumulation of this sterol in late branching fungi. Ergosterol, as a natural antioxidant molecule, could also play a role in the incompletely understood beneficial effects of some mushrooms on health.

Development of a novel NIR viscosity fluorescent probe for visualizing the kidneys in diabetic mice

Viscosity is an important parameter for evaluating cell health, and abnormal viscosity can cause a variety of intracellular organelle function disorders. The mitochondria are a key organelle in cells, and the viscosity of the mitochondria determines the state of the cell. In this work, we report a novel near-infrared fluorescent probe, referred to as NI-VD, that has a large Stokes-shift and a satisfactory response multiple. NI-VD can sensitively detect changes in cell viscosity in cells and tissues, and it can effectively avoid interference from the overlap of excitation and emission light. The fluorescence spectrum shows that NI-VD has maximum emission peaks at 730 nm, and the fluorescence intensity is amplified with an increase in the solution viscosity. The response from pure PBS solution to glycerol changes by 13-fold. After confirmation in a variety of cell and biological models, NI-VD can detect the changes in viscosity in mitochondria. Most importantly, this study is the first to visualize the differences between the kidneys of diabetic mice and normal mice. This approach is a new solution for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

Florfenicol causes excessive lipid peroxidation and apoptosis induced renal injury in broilers

In order to study the effects and mechanism of florfenicol (FFC) on the kidney function of broilers, 180 1-day-old broilers were randomly divided into 6 groups, 30 in each group. Except for the control group, different doses of FFC were added to drinking water in the other 5 groups (0.15 g/L, 0.3 g/L, 0.6 g/L, 1.2 g/L and 1.8 g/L). After continuous administration for 5 days, renal histopathological changes, serum renal function indicators, renal peroxidation products and antioxidant factors, and apoptotic factors were detected in broilers aged 21 and 42 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the kidney tissue structure was disordered, the glomerulus was atrophic, the cystic cavity was enlarged, and the epithelial cells of renal tubules were seriously vacuolated in broilers of treatment groups. And with the growth of broilers, the kidney injury of broilers in the low-dose FFC group was relieved. FFC significantly increased the contents of uric acid (UA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE) in serum and malondialdehyde (MDA) in kidney of broilers, but significantly reduced the levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in kidney. FFC significantly inhibited the mRNA relative transcriptional levels of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate: quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), and increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of p53, Caspase-3 and Caspase-6 in kidney tissue of broilers. It is concluded that FFC has certain nephrotoxicity to broilers, and its effect on kidney is dose-dependent and reversible. FFC causes intense lipid peroxidation in broiler kidney by inhibiting the expression of related factors in the downstream signal pathway of Nrf2. FFC can also up-regulate the expression of pro-apoptotic factors and accelerate the abnormal apoptosis of renal cells, thus seriously affecting the renal function of broilers.

The role of lipids in the central nervous system and their pathological implications in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Lipids play an important role in the central nervous system (CNS). They contribute to the structural integrity and physical characteristics of cell and organelle membranes, act as bioactive signalling molecules, and are utilised as fuel sources for mitochondrial metabolism. The intricate homeostatic mechanisms underpinning lipid handling and metabolism across two major CNS cell types; neurons and astrocytes, are integral for cellular health and maintenance. Here, we explore the various roles of lipids in these two cell types. Given that changes in lipid metabolism have been identified in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, we also discuss changes in lipid handling and utilisation in the context of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in order to identify key cellular processes affected by the disease, and inform future areas of research.

The Relationship of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, Reactive Oxygen Species, Adenosine Triphosphate Content, Sperm Plasma Membrane Integrity, and Kinematic Properties in Warmblood Stallions

Equine sperm possesses a unique physiology because its energy supply is mostly dependent on oxidative phosphorylation of mitochondria as an aerobic source of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. The present study was, therefore, conducted to investigate the relationship between sperm kinematic and functional variables in stallions. Semen samples were collected from five warmblood stallions (three ejaculates from each stallion), diluted with INRA96 and transferred to the laboratory. Next, sperm motility, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), production of superoxide anion (as a reactive oxygen species; ROS), ATP content, and plasma membrane integrity were assessed. Motion and functional characteristics differed among investigated stallions (P < .05). In addition, it was revealed MMP was positively correlated with the level of ROS and ATP content and progressive motility (P < .05). The level of ROS was positively correlated with ATP content and negatively correlated with plasma membrane integrity and straightness (P < .05). Adenosine triphosphate content was positively correlated with progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, average path velocity, and beat cross frequency and reversely correlated with plasma membrane integrity and straightness (P < .05). Plasma membrane integrity was positively correlated with straight line velocity, linearity, and straightness and negatively correlated with curvilinear velocity (P < .01). In conclusion, the present study substantiated that kinematic and functional characteristics varied among various warmblood stallions. Furthermore, the present study implicated although higher mitochondrial activity increases ATP synthesis, it leads to elevated superoxide anion production, which could culminate in disintegration of the sperm plasma membrane, thereby altering motion characteristics and swimming pattern of sperm.

Carnosine research in relation to aging brain and neurodegeneration: A blessing for geriatrics and their neuronal disorders

Carnosine, an endogenous dipeptide (β-Ala-l-His), is enriched in prefrontal cortex and olfactory bulb of the brain, blood and also in muscle. It has mainly antioxidant and antiglycating properties which makes this molecule unique. Its content reduces during aging and aging-induced neurodegenerative diseases. Aging is a progressive biological process that leads to develop the risk factors of diseases and death. During aging the morphological, biochemical, cellular and molecular changes occur in brain and blood including other tissues. The objective of this review is to combine the updated information from the existing literature about the aging-induced neurodegeneration and carnosine research to meet the lacuna of mechanism of carnosine. The grey matter and white matter loses its normal ratio in aging, and hence the brain volume and weight. Different aging related neurodegenerative disorders arise due to loss of neurons, and synapses as a result of proteinopathies in some cases. Carnosine, being an endogenous biomolecule and having antioxidant, antiglycating properties has shown its potency to counteract erroneous protein biosynthesis, stress, activated microglial and astrocyte activity, and different neurodegenerative disorders. It (carnosine) can also inhibit the metal ion-induced degeneration by acting as a metal chelator. In this review the trends in carnosine research in relation to aging brain and neurodegeneration have been discussed with a view to its (carnosine) eligibility (including its mechanism of action) to be used as a promising neurotherapeutic for the betterment of elderly populations of our society at the national and international levels in near future.

Photoprotective effect of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharide on UVA-induced damage in HaCaT cells

Background

The skin provides a predominant barrier against chemical, physical and microbial incursion. The intemperate exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation can cause excessive cellular oxidative stress, leading to skin damage, proteins damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. There is sufficient evidences supporting the proposal that mitochondria is highly implicated in skin photo-damage.

Methods

In the present study, a polysaccharide isolated from Astragalus membranaceus was further purified to be an α-glucan, which was further investigated its beneficial influence on UVA-induced photo-damage in HaCaT cells.

Results

Our results showed that the purified Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharide (AP) can protect HaCaT cells from UVA-induced photo-damage through reducing UVA-induced intracellular ROS production and mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby altering ATP content. It was found that the UVA induced damage in HaCaT cells could be effectively restored by co-treatment with AP.

Conclusions

AP exhibited promising potential for advanced application as multifunctional skin care products and drugs.

Products of Lipid Peroxidation as a Factor in the Toxic Effect of Silver Nanoparticles

In our previous study we have shown that nanoparticles have different effects depending on the energy metabolism of the cell, which is an important factor in the context of oncology and diabetes. Here we assess the influence of AgNPs on cellular lipid components in varying glucose concentrations. To assess the effect of silver nanoparticles on cell lipids, we measured cell viability, the fluidity of the cell membranes, the content of amino groups in proteins, the level of lipid peroxidation products, the concentration of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), and the concentration of lipid peroxides. The obtained results show differences in the formation of lipid peroxidation products in cells exposed to oxidative stress induced by nanoparticles. In addition, we have shown that the metabolic state of the cell is a factor significantly affecting this process.

Genetic Screen for Cell Fitness in High or Low Oxygen Highlights Mitochondrial and Lipid Metabolism

Human cells are able to sense and adapt to variations in oxygen levels. Historically, much research in this field has focused on hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here, we perform genome-wide CRISPR growth screens at 21%, 5%, and 1% oxygen to systematically identify gene knockouts with relative fitness defects in high oxygen (213 genes) or low oxygen (109 genes), most without known connection to HIF or ROS. Knockouts of many mitochondrial pathways thought to be essential, including complex I and enzymes in Fe-S biosynthesis, grow relatively well at low oxygen and thus are buffered by hypoxia. In contrast, in certain cell types, knockout of lipid biosynthetic and peroxisomal genes causes fitness defects only in low oxygen. Our resource nominates genetic diseases whose severity may be modulated by oxygen and links hundreds of genes to oxygen homeostasis.

Ameliorative effect of naringin against thiram-induced tibial dyschondroplasia in broiler chicken

Tetramethyl thiuram disulfide (thiram) is widely used in agricultural production as an insecticide and fungicide, which can also lead to tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) in poultry. TD is characterized by leg disorders and growth performance retardation, and no targeted drugs have been found to treat TD until now. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to explore the ameliorative effect of traditional Chinese medicine naringin on thiram-induced TD chickens. A total of 180 one-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) broiler chickens were randomly divided into three equal groups (n = 60): control group (standard diet), thiram-induced group (thiram 50 mg/kg from day 3 to day 7), and naringin-treated group (naringin 30 mg/kg from day 8 to day 18). During the 18-day experiment, the growth performance, tibial bone parameters, antioxidant property of liver, serum biochemical changes and clinical symptoms were recorded to evaluate the protective effect of naringin in thiram-induced TD broiler chickens. Additionally, mRNA expressions and protein levels of Ihh and PTHrP genes were determined via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Administration of naringin showed significant results by alleviating lameness, increased growth performance, recuperated growth plate (GP) width, and improved functions and antioxidant enzyme level of liver in broilers affected by TD. Moreover, naringin treatment restored the development of damaged tibia bone via downregulating Ihh and upregulating PTHrP mRNA and protein expressions. In conclusion, our study determines naringin could be used as an effective medicine to treat TD.

Effects of dimethylglycine sodium salt supplementation on growth performance, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and mitochondria-related gene expression in weanling piglets born with low birth weight1

Dimethylglycine sodium salt (DMG-Na) has exhibited excellent advantages in animal experiments and human health. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with 0.1% DMG-Na on the growth performance, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and mRNA expression of mitochondria-related genes in low birth weight (LBW) piglets during weaning period. Sixteen piglets with normal birth weight (NBW) and 16 LBW piglets were fed either a basal diet or a 0.1% DMG-Na supplemented diet from age of 21 to 49 d. Blood and liver samples were collected at the end of the study. The results showed that compared with NBW piglets, LBW piglets exhibited greater (P < 0.05) alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase activities in the serum. LBW decreased (P < 0.05) the activity of glutathione peroxidase and increased (P < 0.05) the contents of malondialdehyde and H2O2 in liver. DMG-Na supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency, decreased (P < 0.05) ALT and AST activities, and reduced the content of H2O2 in LBW piglets. LBW piglets had downregulated (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of thioredoxin 2, thioredoxin reductases 2, and nuclear respiratory factor-1 (Nrf1) in the liver. However, DMG-Na supplementation increased (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of Nrf1 in the liver. In conclusion, DMG-Na supplementation has beneficial effects in alleviating LBW-induced hepatic oxidative damage and changed mitochondrial genes expression levels, which is associated with increased antioxidant enzyme activities and up-regulating mRNA gene abundance.

Deriving Lipid Classification Based on Molecular Formulas

Despite instrument and algorithmic improvements, the untargeted and accurate assignment of metabolites remains an unsolved problem in metabolomics. New assignment methods such as our SMIRFE algorithm can assign elemental molecular formulas to observed spectral features in a highly untargeted manner without orthogonal information from tandem MS or chromatography. However, for many lipidomics applications, it is necessary to know at least the lipid category or class that is associated with a detected spectral feature to derive a biochemical interpretation. Our goal is to develop a method for robustly classifying elemental molecular formula assignments into lipid categories for an application to SMIRFE-generated assignments. Using a Random Forest machine learning approach, we developed a method that can predict lipid category and class from SMIRFE non-adducted molecular formula assignments. Our methods achieve high average predictive accuracy (>90%) and precision (>83%) across all eight of the lipid categories in the LIPIDMAPS database. Classification performance was evaluated using sets of theoretical, data-derived, and artifactual molecular formulas. Our methods enable the lipid classification of non-adducted molecular formula assignments generated by SMIRFE without orthogonal information, facilitating the biochemical interpretation of untargeted lipidomics experiments. This lipid classification appears insufficient for validating single-spectrum assignments, but could be useful in cross-spectrum assignment validation.

Protective effect of curcumin on ochratoxin A-induced liver oxidative injury in duck is mediated by modulating lipid metabolism and the intestinal microbiota

Curcumin has antioxidant functions, regulates the intestinal microbial composition, and alleviates mycotoxin toxicity. The present study aimed to explore whether curcumin could alleviate ochratoxin A (OTA)-induced liver injury via the intestinal microbiota. A total of 720 mixed-sex 1-day-old White Pekin ducklings were randomly assigned into 4 groups: CON (control group, without OTA), OTA (fed a diet with 2 mg/kg OTA), CUR (ducks fed a diet with 400 mg/kg curcumin), and OTA + CUR (2 mg/kg OTA plus 400 mg/kg curcumin). Each treatment consisted of 6 replicates and 30 ducklings per replicate. Treatment lasted for 21 D. Results were analyzed by a two-tailed Student t test between 2 groups. Our results demonstrated that OTA treatment had the highest serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level among 4 groups. Compared with OTA group, OTA + CUR decreased serum LDL level (P < 0.05). OTA decreased liver catalase (CAT) activity in ducks (P < 0.05), while addition of curcumin in OTA group increased liver CAT activity (P < 0.05). 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing suggested that curcumin increased the richness indices (ACE index) and diversity indices (Simpson index) compared with OTA group (P < 0.05) and recovered the OTA-induced alterations in composition of the intestinal microbiota. Curcumin supplementation relieved the decreased abundance of butyric acid producing bacteria, including blautia, butyricicoccus, and butyricimonas, induced by OTA (P < 0.05). OTA also significantly influenced the metabolism of the intestinal microbiota, such as tryptophan metabolism and glyceropholipid metabolism. Curcumin could alleviate the upregulation of oxidative stress pathways induced by OTA. OTA treatment also increased SREBP-1c expression (P < 0.05). The curcumin group had the lowest expression of FAS and PPARG mRNA (P < 0.05) and the highest expression of NRF2 and HMOX1 mRNA. These results indicated that curcumin could alleviate OTA-induced oxidative injury and lipid metabolism disruption by modulating the cecum microbiota.

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-δ controls endoplasmic reticulum membrane fluidity and permeability in fungus-induced allergic inflammation in mice

Background and Purpose

Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K), especially PI3K‐δ, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress play important roles in refractory asthma induced by the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus through mechanisms that are not well understood. Here we have investigated these mechanisms, using BEAS‐2B human bronchial epithelial cells and a mouse model of A. fumigatus‐induced allergic lung inflammation.

Experimental Approach

A selective PI3K‐δ inhibitor, IC87114, and an ER folding chaperone, 4‐phenylbutyric acid (4‐PBA), were applied to a model of A. fumigatus‐induced asthma in female C57BL/6 mice. The therapeutic potential of IC87114 and 4‐PBA was assessed in relevant primary cell, tissue, and disease models, using immunohistochemistry, western blotting and assessment of ER redox state and membrane fluidity.

Key Results

Treatment with IC87114 or 4‐PBA alleviated pulmonary inflammation and airway remodelling and reduced ER stress and inflammation‐associated intra‐ER hyperoxidation, disrupting protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) chaperone activity. IC87114 and 4‐PBA also reversed changes in ER membrane fluidity and permeability and the resultant mitochondrial hyperactivation (i.e., Ca²⁺ accumulation) under hyperoxidation, thereby restoring the physiological state of the ER and mitochondria. These compounds also abolished mitochondria‐associated ER membrane (MAM) formation caused by the physical contact between these subcellular organelles.

Conclusion and Implications

PI3K‐δ and ER stress mediate A. fumigatus‐induced allergic lung inflammation by altering the ER redox state, PDI chaperone function, and ER membrane fluidity and permeability and by amplifying ER signalling to mitochondria through MAM formation. Thus, therapeutic strategies that target the PI3K‐δ–ER stress axis could be an effective treatment for allergic asthma caused by fungi.

Effects of guanylurea, the transformation product of the antidiabetic drug metformin, on the health of brown trout (Salmo trutta f. fario)

Background

Guanylurea is the main transformation product of the antidiabetic drug metformin, which is one of the most prescribed pharmaceuticals worldwide. Due to the high rate of microbial degradation of metformin in sewage treatment plants, guanylurea occurs in higher concentrations in surface waters than its parent compound and could therefore affect aquatic wildlife. In this context, data for fish are scarce up to now which made us investigate the health of brown trout (Salmo trutta f. fario) in response to guanylurea.

Methods

In two experiments, eggs plus developing larvae and juvenile brown trout were exposed to three different concentrations of guanylurea (10, 100 and 1,000 µg/L) and, as a negative control, filtered tap water without this compound. Low internal concentrations were determined. The investigated parameters were mortality, length, weight, condition factor, tissue integrity of the liver and kidney, levels of stress proteins and lipid peroxides, as well as behavioural and developmental endpoints. It was found that guanylurea did not significantly change any of these parameters in the tested concentration range.

Results

In conclusion, these results do not give rise to concern that guanylurea could negatively affect the health or the development of brown trout under field conditions. Nevertheless, more studies focusing on further parameters and other species are highly needed for a more profound environmental risk assessment of guanylurea.

Probiotics isolated from yaks improves the growth performance, antioxidant activity, and cytokines related to immunity and inflammation in mice

BACKGROUND

Yaks living in the high-altitude hypoxic environment of Tibetan plateau (3600 m) have special gut microbes. However, it is still little research on yak probiotics until now. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to evaluate the growth promoting effect, antioxidant capability, immune effect, and anti-inflammatory ability of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus velezensis isolated from Tibetan yaks in mice model.

RESULTS

The results showed that the isolated strains supplementation not only improve the growth performance but also increased the length of villus in the small intestine and intestinal digestive enzyme activity. Importantly, we observed that the T-AOC, SOD, and GSH-PX levels were increased and the MDA content was reduced in probiotic-treated mice, which implied that probiotics supplementation can ameliorate the antioxidative activity of mice. The levels of AST and ALT correlated with the hepatic injury were reduced and the levels of AKP, TP, GLB, ALB, Ca, and P were markedly higher than those in the control group. Additionally, mice treated with probiotics exhibited higher serum IgG, IgM and IgA, which can reflect the immune status to some extent. At the same time, the major pro-inflammatory factor TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 were down-regulated and the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 was up-regulated compared with the control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, these results demonstrated that Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus velezensis supplementation can increase overall growth performance and ameliorate the blood parameters related to inflammation and immunity of mice.

Dimethylglycine sodium salt protects against oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in the small intestines of mice

Few studies have investigated the use of dimethylglycine sodium salt (DMG‑Na) to protect against small intestinal damage, despite its prevalence in the treatment of human diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of DMG‑Na against oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in the small intestines of mice. A total of 100 male Kunming mice were randomly assigned to five groups (n=20 per group): i) Mice gastric intubation with 0.3 ml sterile saline solution (once), then subcutaneously injected with sterile saline solution (0.5 ml) after 1 h (CON); ii) mice gastric intubation with 12 mg DMG‑Na/0.3 ml of sterile saline solution once, then subcutaneously injected with sterile saline solution (0.5 ml) 1 h later (D); iii) mice gastric intubation with 0.3 ml sterile saline solution once, then subcutaneously injected with indomethacin (10 mg/kg BW) 1 h later (IN); iv) mice gastric intubation with 12 mg DMG‑Na/0.3 ml sterile saline solution once, then subcutaneously injected with indomethacin (10 mg/kg BW) 1 h later (DIN); and v) mice subcutaneously injected with indomethacin (10 mg/kg BW), then gastrically intubated with 12 mg DMG‑Na/0.3 ml sterile saline solution once after 1 h (IND). The present study was evaluated the effects of DMG‑Na on mice intestinal damage induced by indomethacin injection. The histological morphology of the small intestine improved (P<0.05) in the DIN and IND groups, compared with the IN group. The antioxidant system was enhanced, oxidative damage was reduced, and the expression of antioxidant‑associated genes was increased in the small intestine and its mitochondria in the DIN and IND groups, compared with the IN group. The above results suggested that pretreatment and treatment with DMG‑Na reduced oxidative damage by enhancing antioxidant capacity, increasing the expression of antioxidant‑associated genes, ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction and suppressing apoptosis. Further study is required to determine the specific mechanism by which pretreatment and treatment with DMG‑Na reduced small intestinal damage.

The Beneficial Roles of SIRT1 in Drug-Induced Liver Injury

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a major cause of acute liver failure (ALF) as a result of accumulated drugs in the human body metabolized into toxic agents and helps generate heavy oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, which induces necrosis in hepatocytes and ultimately damages the liver. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is said to have multiple vital roles in cell proliferation, aging, and antistress systems of the human body. The levels of SIRT1 and its activation precisely modulate its critical role in the interaction between multiple step procedures of DILI. The nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell- (NF-κB-) mediated inflammation signaling pathway, reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage, mitochondrial membrane potential collapse, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress also contribute to aggravate DILI. Apoptosis is regarded as the terminal reaction followed by multiple signaling cascades including caspases, p53, and mitochondrial dysfunction which have been said to contribute in DILI. The SIRT1 activator is regarded as a potential candidate for DILI, because the former could inhibit signaling of p53, NF-κB, and ER stress. On the other hand, overexpression of SIRT1 also enhances the activation of antioxidant responses via Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- (Keap1-) nuclear factor- (erythroid-derived 2-) like 2 (Nrf2) signaling. The current manuscript will highlight the mechanism of DILI and the interaction of SIRT1 with various cytoplasmic factors leading to DILI along with the summary of potent SIRT1 agonists.

Role of Mitochondria in Beef Color: A Review

In postmortem muscle, mitochondria remain active and can influence beef color by oxygen consumption and metmyoglobin reduction. Enzymes involved in glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle can generate reducing equivalents such as succinate or NADH. Mitochondrial activity is critical to maintain steaks that are bright cherry-red and improve color stability. This review seeks to characterize the role of mitochondria in beef color; more specifically to understand the effects of mitochondrial function on myoglobin redox stability.

In vitro free radical scavenging capacity of dimethylglycine sodium salt and its protective ability against oleic acid hydroperoxide-induced oxidative damage in IPEC-J2 cells

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro free radical scavenging capacity of dimethylglycine sodium (DMG‑Na) and its protective ability against oleic acid hydroperoxide (OAHPx)‑induced oxidative damage in IPEC‑J2 cells. Initially, the free radical scavenging activities of water‑soluble pigments (DMG‑Na, betalain, capsanthin and cyanidin‑3‑rutinoside) were measured and compared with those of Trolox. Subsequently, freshly collected swine blood was mixed with heparin and centrifuged to obtain erythrocytes. In order to induce the free radical chain oxidation in erythrocytes, the aqueous peroxyl radicals were generated by thermal decomposition of 2,2'‑azobis(2‑amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) in oxygen. A 2% suspension of porcine erythrocytes in PBS buffer were pre‑incubated for 30 min at 37˚C with DMG‑Na (32 µM), followed by incubation with or without AAPH (75 mM) for 5 h with gentle shaking. Additionally, IPEC‑J2 cells were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6 per group): Cells treated with phosphate buffered saline (PBS); cells treated with DMG‑Na (32 µM); cells treated with oleic acid hydroperoxides (OAHPx, 20 µM; TO group); cells treated with DMG‑Na (32 µM) followed by OAHPx (20 µM; DTO group). The cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, Ham's F‑12 mixture, 1.5 mM HEPES, 5% (v/v) fetal bovine serum, 1% (v/v) insulin‑transferrin‑selenium mixture, 1% (v/v) penicillin‑streptomycin mixture and 2.5 µg/ml fungizone (37˚C, 5% CO2). The results showed that DMG‑Na exerted the strongest free radical scavenging capacity at 0.32 M from 0.08‑0.64 M, and that it could prevent AAPH‑induced porcine erythrocyte hemolysis by increasing its antioxidant capacity (P<0.05). The results also demonstrated that antioxidant capacity and antioxidant‑associated gene expression increased in the DTO group relative to the TO group (P<0.05), indicating that DMG‑Na prevented the OAHPx‑induced oxidative damage in IPEC‑J2 cells by improving the antioxidant capacity and antioxidant‑associated gene expression.

Insight Into the Molecular Dynamic Simulation Studies of Reactive Oxygen Species in Native Skin Membrane

In recent years, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in regulating cancer cell apoptosis, inflammation, cell ischemia, and cell signaling pathways has been well established. The most common sources of intracellular ROS are the mitochondrial electron transport system, NADH oxidase, and cytochrome P450. In this study, we investigated the dynamics and permeability of ROS using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on native skin-lipid bilayer membranes. Native skin-lipid bilayers are composed of ceramide, cholesterol, and free fatty acid in an almost equal molar ratio (1:1:1). Dynamic distribution studies on ROS, i.e., hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and O₂ (¹O₂ by analogy), revealed that these species interact with cholesterol as a primary target in lipid peroxidation of the skin-lipid bilayer. Moreover, the permeability of ROS, i.e., H₂O₂, hydroxyl radicals (HO), hydroperoxy radical (HOO), and O₂, along the skin-lipid bilayer was measured using free energy profiles (FEPs). The FEPs showed that in spite of high-energy barriers, ROS traveled through the membrane easily. Breaching the free energy barriers, these ROS permeated into the membrane, inflicting oxidative stress, and causing apoptosis. Collectively, the insight acquired from simulations may result in a better understanding of oxidative stress at the atomic level.

Hematological indicators in pygmy wood mouse Apodemus uralensis (Muridae, Rodentia) populations as markers of the environmental radiation exposure: East Urals radioactive trace (Russia)

The hematological effects of chronic radiation exposure in males of the pygmy wood mouse (Apodemus uralensis Pall., 1811) from the East Urals radioactive trace (EURT) area were assessed, taking into account population abundance and reproductive status (immature, ripening, and mature yearlings). For this purpose, we analyzed the morpho-functional characteristics of erythrocytes (red cell indices [MCV, MCH, MCHC], red cell count, activity of antioxidant enzymes [GSH-Px, CAT], lipid peroxidation, glycolysis, osmotic resistance, methaemoglobin content) and blood plasma components (free hemoglobin, total lipids, total cholesterol, and glucose) in the background territory and the EURT area; these areas have a density of soil contamination with ⁹⁰Sr of 12,851 and 198 kBq × m^-2, respectively (four and two order of magnitude higher than the background value). The data indicate the "hyperfunctional" state of the erythrocyte, aimed at activation of the gas transport function of blood in the radioactive environment. This, as a consequence, determines the insufficiency of energy supply of the cell defense system necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the membrane. Intensification of membrane lipid peroxidation, reduction of osmotic resistance and GSH-Px activity in red cells, an increase in the degree of intravascular hemolysis, and tendency towards erythropenia indicate the processes of accelerated aging of erythrocytes and their more pronounced destruction in the circulatory bed. The level of the hematological response increased with increasing radiation burden and was more pronounced with a large population size. The interaction effect of "overpopulation" and "radioactive pollution" was observed to a lesser degree for ripening males, and was very small for sexually mature animals. Immature males from the EURT head part with internal whole-body radiation doses of 0.0045-0.35 mGy/day can be considered as the most sensitive group to the factors synergy, including radiation damage and overabundance population.

Increased skeletal muscle mitochondrial free radical production in peripheral arterial disease despite preserved mitochondrial respiratory capacity

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? What is the degree to which skeletal muscle mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is linked to impaired skeletal muscle function in patients with early-stage peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and what is the impact on mitochondrial respiratory capacity? What is the main finding and its importance? This is the first study to document increased mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species production associated with elevated intramuscular oxidative stress, despite preserved mitochondrial respiratory function, in patients with PAD. Furthermore, systemic inflammation, mitochondria-derived ROS production and skeletal muscle oxidative stress were strongly correlated to disease severity, as indicated by ankle-brachial index, in patients with PAD.

ABSTRACT

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction, which is not fully explained by disease-related arterial occlusion, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Therefore, this study comprehensively assessed mitochondrial respiratory function in biopsies from the gastrocnemius of 10 patients with PAD (Fontaine Stage II) and 12 healthy controls (HC). Intramuscular and systemic inflammation, mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and oxidative stress were also assessed to better understand the mechanisms responsible for the proposed PAD-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Interestingly, mitochondrial respiratory capacity, assessed as complex I (CI) and complex II (CII)-driven State 3 respiration, measured separately and in combination (State 3 CI+II), revealed no difference between the patients with PAD and the HC. However, mitochondria-derived ROS production was significantly elevated in PAD (HC: 1.0 ± 0.9; PAD: 4.3 ± 1.0 AU (mg tissue)^-1 ). Furthermore, patients with PAD exhibited significantly greater concentrations of the pro-inflammatory markers tumour necrosis factor α in plasma (HC: 0.9 ± 0.4; PAD: 2.0 ± 0.3 pg ml^-1 ) and interleukin 6 in both plasma (HC: 2.3 ± 0.4; PAD: 4.3 ± 0.5 pg ml^-1 ) and muscle (∼75% greater). Intramuscular oxidative stress, assessed by protein carbonyls and 4-hydroxynonenal, was significantly greater in PAD compared to HC. Ankle brachial index was significantly correlated with intramuscular inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondria-derived ROS production. Thus, elevated intramuscular inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondria-derived ROS production are likely to contribute to the pathophysiology of the skeletal muscle dysfunction associated with PAD, even in the presence of preserved mitochondrial respiratory function in this population.

Probiotic Lactobacillus johnsonii BS15 Improves Blood Parameters Related to Immunity in Broilers Experimentally Infected with Subclinical Necrotic Enteritis

The probiotic strain Lactobacillus johnsonii BS15 could exert beneficial effects on growth performance, lipid metabolism, and intestinal microflora in healthy broilers and those afflicted with subclinical necrotic enteritis (SNE). In particular, BS15 prevents SNE by enhancing intestinal immunity. To further understand the immune regulatory mechanism of BS15, we evaluated its effects on the overall immunity of broilers by determining blood parameters in healthy and SNE broilers. In this study, two experiments were conducted. Experiment 1 involved a 42-day experimental period and used 450 1-day-old male chicks. The chicks were randomly divided into three groups and fed with a basal diet with or without 1 × 10⁵ or 10⁶ colony-forming units (cfu) BS15/g as feed. Experiment 2 involved a 28-day experimental period and used 180 1-day-old male chicks. The chicks were randomly allotted into three groups and given with or without 1 × 10⁶ cfu BS15/g BS15 as feed. SNE infection was treated in all broilers, except in those in the normal diet group. Antioxidant abilities, immunoglobulins, and cytokines in the serum were assessed. T-lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood were also determined. The first experiment demonstrated that BS15 enhanced the antioxidant abilities; the serum levels of immunoglobulins, interleukin-2, and interferon-gamma; and CD3⁺CD4⁺ T-lymphocyte percentage in peripheral blood on day 21. However, limited significant changes were observed on day 42. The second experiment revealed that BS15 supplementation positively influenced the antioxidant abilities and increased the serum levels of immunoglobulins and cytokines that were affected by SNE. BS15 also positively affected T-lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood during SNE infection. These findings suggest that BS15 supplementation may prevent SNE in broilers by improving blood parameters related to immunity and enhancing intestinal immunity. Furthermore, BS15 supplementation can improve blood parameters in healthy broilers, especially at the starter phase.

In vitro antioxidant capacities of eight different kinds of apples and their effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative damage in mice

In the present study, the DPPH and ABTS⁺ radical scavenging activity of eight types of apples decreased (P < 0.05) during the 70-day storage at 4°C. The Fushi (F2) apples from Xin Jiang showed the highest radical scavenging activity. For in vivo study, 40 male Kunming mice (body weight 20–25 g) were selected and randomly assigned to four groups (10 mice per group). The F2 groups (F2S, F2 + sterile saline and F2L, F2 + lipopolysaccharide) were administered with 0.3 mL F2 filtrate via gastric intubation daily for 28 days. The control groups (CS, CON + sterile saline and CL, CON + lipopolysaccharide) were treated with sterile saline at the same volume. At day 29, mice of F2L and CL groups were injected with 100 μg/kg body weight of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneally, while those of F2S and CS groups were injected equal volume of sterile saline. In comparison to the CS group, the CL group showed a decrease (P < 0.05) in serum, liver, and hepatic mitochondrial antioxidant capacity, reduction (P < 0.05) in the expression of hepatic antioxidant-related genes, and an increase (P < 0.05) in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), and reactive oxygen species (ROS). In comparison to the CL group, the F2L group showed lower (P < 0.05) levels of serum ALT, AST, and ROS, higher (P < 0.05) level of serum, liver, and hepatic mitochondrial antioxidant capacity, increased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and enhanced (P < 0.05) expression of hepatic antioxidant-related genes. These results suggest that F2 may exert protective effect against LPS-induced oxidative damage by improving the antioxidant capacity.

Neuronal Lipid Metabolism: Multiple Pathways Driving Functional Outcomes in Health and Disease

Lipids are a fundamental class of organic molecules implicated in a wide range of biological processes related to their structural diversity, and based on this can be broadly classified into five categories; fatty acids, triacylglycerols (TAGs), phospholipids, sterol lipids and sphingolipids. Different lipid classes play major roles in neuronal cell populations; they can be used as energy substrates, act as building blocks for cellular structural machinery, serve as bioactive molecules, or a combination of each. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), dysfunctions in lipid metabolism and function have been identified as potential drivers of pathogenesis. In particular, aberrant lipid metabolism is proposed to underlie denervation of neuromuscular junctions, mitochondrial dysfunction, excitotoxicity, impaired neuronal transport, cytoskeletal defects, inflammation and reduced neurotransmitter release. Here we review current knowledge of the roles of lipid metabolism and function in the CNS and discuss how modulating these pathways may offer novel therapeutic options for treating ALS.