Boron compounds reduce vanadium tetraoxide genotoxicity in human lymphocytes

Horse Whole Blood Trace Elements from Different Sicily Areas: Biomonitoring of Environmental Risk

Horses are excellent bioindicators for the assessment of environmental pollution. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels and potential bioaccumulation of 28 mineral elements in 75 horse whole blood samples collected from five pollution-prone areas of Sicily, Italy. A direct mercury analyzer (DMA-80) was used for Hg determination, and an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) for all other elements. A one-way ANOVA test, followed by Bonferroni's multiple comparison for post hoc comparison, was applied to assess statistically significant differences between mineral elements and the five experimental groups. The levels of mineral elements in hay and concentrate were below the limits set by Regulation No. 744/2012. The mineral content of whole blood samples was slightly influenced by the region of origin of the horse. p values < 0.05 were statistically meaningful. However, the concentrations of mineral elements in horses' whole blood remained within reference ranges. In conclusion, the present study shows that the mineral content does not represent a toxicological risk for the analyzed horses. In addition, the study areas did not appear to show a high mineral element contamination.

Prosthetic Metals: Release, Metabolism and Toxicity

The development of metallic joint prostheses has been ongoing for more than a century alongside advancements in hip and knee arthroplasty. Among the materials utilized, the Cobalt-Chromium-Molybdenum (Co-Cr-Mo) and Titanium-Aluminum-Vanadium (Ti-Al-V) alloys are predominant in joint prosthesis construction, predominantly due to their commendable biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance. Nonetheless, over time, the physical wear, electrochemical corrosion, and inflammation induced by these alloys that occur post-implantation can cause the release of various metallic components. The released metals can then flow and metabolize in vivo, subsequently causing potential local or systemic harm. This review first details joint prosthesis development and acknowledges the release of prosthetic metals. Second, we outline the metallic concentration, biodistribution, and elimination pathways of the released prosthetic metals. Lastly, we discuss the possible organ, cellular, critical biomolecules, and significant signaling pathway toxicities and adverse effects that arise from exposure to these metals.

Evaluation of Possible Toxic Effects of Boric Acid in Palourde Clam (Ruditapes decussatus) Through Histological Changes and Oxidative Responses

The extensive utilization of boric acid, particularly in industrial and agricultural sectors, also engenders concerns regarding the toxicity of boron and its derivatives. Particularly, the behavior of boric acid at increasing concentrations in aquatic ecosystems remains poorly understood. In light of these concerns, this study aimed to investigate the toxicity of boric acid in bivalves, which occupy a critical position in the food chain. Specimens of Ruditapes decussatus, which had not been previously exposed to any pollutants and were cultivated under controlled conditions, were subjected to three different concentrations of boric acid (0.05 mg/L, 0.5 mg/L, and 5 mg/L) in vitro for 96 h. Following the exposure period, the specimens were assessed for histological changes (the mantle, gill, and digestive gland) and specific oxidative parameters (the gill and digestive gland), including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase, and lipid peroxidation (LPO). The research findings indicated that boric acid primarily induced oxidative damage at the applied concentrations and increased antioxidant levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, although no significant histopathological abnormalities were observed in the examined histological sections, subtle changes were noted. This study evaluated the potential adverse effects of boric acid on bivalves, which are crucial components of the aquatic food chain, utilizing histological and specific physiological parameters following its introduction into aquatic environments. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will contribute to the development of new insights and perspectives regarding the extensive use of boric acid.

Guidance for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring anti-genotoxicity

Since DNA damage can occur spontaneously or be produced by the environmental genotoxins in living cells, it is important to investigate compounds that can reverse or protect DNA damage. An appropriate methodology is essential for the responsive identification of protection offered against DNA damage. This review includes information on the current state of knowledge on prokaryotic cell-based assays (SOS chromotest, umu test, vitotox assay) and cytogenetic techniques (micronucleus assay, chromosome aberration test and sister chromatid exchange assay) with an emphasis on the possibility to explore genoprotective compounds. Throughout the last decade, studies have extrapolated the scientific methodologies utilized for genotoxicity to assess genoprotective compounds. Therefore, shortcomings of genotoxicity studies are also mirrored in antigenotoxicity studies. While regulatory authorities around the world (OECD, US-EPA and ICH) continue to update diverse genotoxic assay strategies, there are still no clear guidelines/approaches for efficient experimental design to screen genoprotective compounds. As a consequence, non-synergetic and inconsistent implementation of the test method by the researchers to execute such simulations has been adopted, which inevitably results in unreliable findings. The review has made the first attempt to collect various facets of experimentally verified approaches for evaluating genoprotective compounds, as well as to acknowledge potential significance and constraints, and further focus on the assessment of end points which are required to validate such action. Henceforth, the review makes an incredible commitment by permitting readers to equate several components of their test arrangement with the provided simplified information, allowing the selection of convenient technique for the predefined compound from a central repository.

Effect of coating with chitosan enriched with different borates on the shelf life of fish fillet

BACKGROUND

In this study, the effects of biofilm coatings obtained by immobilization of different borates - namely borax (BX), colemanite (COL), and ulexite (UX) - with chitosan (Ch) on the shelf life of rainbow trout fillets were investigated. The immobilization and characterization of borates in Ch were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and zeta potential analysis. In determining the shelf life of fillets that were covered by immersion and stored for 15 days, microbiological (total aerobic mesophilic, psychrotrophic, lactic acid, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacteriaceae bacteria counts) and chemical analyses (total volatile basic nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and pH levels) were performed at 3 day periodic intervals. In addition, the biodegradation of borates was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in biofilm-coated fillets on the 1st, 8th, and 15th storage days.

RESULTS

The microbial results of the coatings enriched with borates (BX, COL, and UX) at different levels (0, 0.03, and 0.06 mg L^-1 ) (due to the immobilization with Ch) show the shelf life was extended by 3-6 days in all of the treatment groups compared with the control.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that BX, COL, and UX coatings enriched by immobilization with Ch increase shelf life and improve fillet quality. In addition, the enrichment of BX, COL, and UX with Ch showed explicit natural protective effects. This study demonstrates that Ch-enriched coatings of BX, COL, and UX can be used as natural bioactive nanocarriers to provide bioactive food ingredients in the seafood processing industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

The effect of astaxanthine on ischemia-reperfusion injury in a rat model

BACKGROUND

We aimed to compare biochemical and histopathological findings of astaxanthin's potential effects on oxidative stress in ischemia/reperfusion damage (I/R).

METHODS

Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group; I/R group; I/R + treatment group; drug group. Astaxanthin was orally administered to groups C and D for 14 days. In groups B and C, the femoral artery was clamped for 2 h to form ischemia. The clamp was opened, and reperfusion was performed for 1 h. In all groups, 4 ml of blood sample through intracardiac puncture and gastrocnemius muscle tissue samples were collected. Serum and tissue samples were analyzed by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidative level (TOL). Necrosis, inflammation, and caspase-3 in muscle tissue collected for histopathological examination were evaluated.

RESULTS

Tissue MDA, SOD and TOL values significantly differed between groups. Serum MDA, SOD, TOL and TAC values significantly differed between groups. On necrosis examination, there was a significant difference between groups B and C. Although signs of inflammation significantly differed between groups, there was no significant difference between groups A and C and groups A and D. Although there was a significant difference in caspase-3 results between groups, there was no significant difference between groups A and C.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of astaxanthin before and after surgery showed preventive or therapeutic effects against I/R damage.

Single and Mixture Toxicity of Boron and Vanadium Nanoparticles in the Soil Annelid Enchytraeus crypticus: A Multi-Biomarker Approach

The increased use and production of new materials has contributed to Anthropocene biodiversity decrease. Therefore, a careful and effective toxicity evaluation of these new materials is crucial. However, environmental risk assessment is facing new challenges due to the specific characteristics of nanomaterials (NMs). Most of the available ecotoxicity studies target the aquatic ecosystems and single exposures of NMs. The present study evaluated Enchytraeus crypticus survival and reproduction (28 days) and biochemical responses (14 days) when exposed to nanoparticles of vanadium (VNPs) and boron (BNPs) (single and mixture; tested concentrations: 10 and 50 mg/kg). Although at the organism level the combined exposures (VNPs + BNPs) did not induce a different toxicity from the single exposures, the biochemical analysis revealed a more complex picture. VNPs presented a higher toxicity than BNPs. VNPs (50 mg/kg), independently of the presence of BNPs (additive or independent effects), caused a decrease in survival and reproduction. However, acetylcholinesterase, glutathione S-transferase, catalase, glutathione reductase activities, and lipid peroxidation levels revealed alterations in neurotoxicity, detoxification and antioxidant responses, depending on the time and type of exposure (single or mixture). The results from this study highlight different responses of the organisms to contaminants in single versus mixture exposures, mainly at the biochemical level.

Application of boron reduces vanadium toxicity by altering the subcellular distribution of vanadium, enhancing boron uptake and enhancing the antioxidant defense system of watermelon

Vanadium (V) is the fifth most abundant transition metal, elevated levels of V are hazardous to plants. Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for plants and can mitigate heavy metal toxicity. However, the mechanism used by B to promote tolerance to vanadium is unknown. In this study, a combination of physiological and gene expression analysis was used to explain mechanism of B (75 µM) induced V (40 mg L^-1) stress tolerance in watermelon. V stress severely reduced root and shoot growth and increased the accumulation of ROS. B application improved tolerance to V by enhancing the expression of B transporter genes (ClaNIP5;1-1, ClaNIP5;1-2, ClaBOR4) that facilitated B uptake and transport while restricting V transport in plant tissues. At cellular level, the higher V retention in leaves was achieved by cell wall chelation, whereas, the higher V exclusion in vacuole of root cell was driven by elevated vacuolar H⁺-ATPase, H⁺-PPase activities, and transcript level of ClaVHP1;1, ClaPDR12-1 and ClaPDR12-2 genes facilitated by B application. Moreover, B application reduced tissue ROS cascade by enhancing antioxidant enzymatic activity and expression of superoxide dismutase (ClaCSD1-1, ClaCSD1-2, ClaCSD3, ClaMSD1) and catalase (ClaCAT2-1, ClaCAT2-2) genes that enhanced the defense mechanism of the V treated plants, improved root and shoot growth and tolerance index of watermelon. In conclusion, we demonstrate that ameliorative effect of B in tolerance to V of watermelon was based on B homeostasis and improved antioxidant defense system. These findings might help to increase watermelon production in V polluted soils.

Data on multiple regression analysis between boron, nickel, arsenic, antimony, and biological substrates in horses: The role of hematological biomarkers

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomarkers of exposure to boron, nickel, arsenic, and antimony in an industrial region, evaluating the bioaccumulation in biological substrates and the correlation with biomarkers such as hematological parameters. Through indication of the accumulation of some minerals in the horse's biological substrates reflects environmental pollution. Moreover, an additional aim of the study was to show whether these contaminants have an influence on the hematological parameters in horses. Blood, serum, mane, and tail samples from 20 horses from an industrial area were analyzed to determine boron (B), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb) concentration. Hematological parameters (red blood cell [RBC], white blood cells [WBC], hemoglobin [Hb], hematocrit [Hct], mean corpuscular volume [MCV], mean corpuscular hemoglobin [MCH], mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration [MCHC], platelet [PLT]) as a biomarker of blood in relation to the bioaccumulation of these elements were analyzed also. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed and single regression analysis (Pearson) and multiple regression analysis (p < 0.05) between blood factors, As, B, Ni, and Sb concentrations, and for each mineral in different substrate, respectively. Results showed a significant correlation between tail and mane concentrations with serum and blood for boron concentration (r = -1 p < 0.05). No significant correlation between sample (feed, hay, mane, tail, and water) concentrations and As, Ni, and Sb were found. A significantly negative correlation with blood parameters (r = -1 p < 0.05) was observed in Boron concentration for mane and tail. This suggests that the mane and tail may be a potential means to investigate suspected exposure to excessive levels of trace minerals.

Cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of 1,2-diborolanes with strong donor substitutes on human cancer cells

In recent years, boron compounds have become more common as chemotherapy agents against certain types of cancers. Along with the development of boron-based therapeutic agents have come investigations into the various cancers and biochemical and molecular mechanisms affected by boron compounds and the relationships between boron compounds and chemical protection against cancer. In this preliminary study, the effects of new 1,2-N-substituted-1,2-diborolane derivatives on types of breast and liver cancers were examined for the first time. Four were found to significantly affect the cell viabilities and mitochondrial membrane potential changes in MCF-7, HepG2 and Hep3B cancer cells. Each was prepared in n-hexane at various concentrations (5, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 µg/mL). Human peripheral blood lymphocytes were used as control cells. Compounds 1, 2, 3a, and 3b 1,2-diborolane derivatives selectively killed cancer cells, but compound 1 was cytotoxic in a concentration-dependent manner on HepG2 and Hep3B and only at concentrations of at least 75 µg/mL on MCF-7 cells. Compound 3a exhibited cytotoxic effect on lymphocytes at 75 and 100 µgmL^-1 concentrations, but compounds 1, 2 and 3b, 3c and 3d have not possessed significant cytotoxic effect on lymphocytes. Compounds 3c and 3d have not possessed significant cytotoxic effects. Mitochondrial membrane potential assay results supported these findings. Our results reveal that 1,2-diborolane derivates have high cytotoxic and apoptotic activities on human hepatocarcinoma cells and are therefore potential candidates in the development of new drugs against liver cancer.

Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of low-dose vanadium dioxide nanoparticles to lung cells following long-term exposure

Vanadium dioxide nanoparticles (VO₂ NPs) have been massively produced and widely applied due to their excellent metal-insulator transition property, making it extremely urgent to evaluate their safety, especially for low-dose long-term respiratory occupational exposure. Here, we report a comprehensive cytotoxicity and genotoxicity study on VO₂ NPs to lung cell lines A549 and BEAS-2B following a long-term exposure. A commercial VO₂ NP, S-VO₂, was used to treat BEAS-2B (0.15-0.6 μg/mL) and A549 (0.3-1.2 μg/mL) cells for four exposure cycles, and each exposure cycle lasted for 4 consecutive days; then various bioassays were performed after each cycle. Significant proliferation inhibition was observed in both cell lines after long-term exposure of S-VO₂ at low doses that did not cause apparent acute cytotoxicity; however, the genotoxicity of S-VO₂, characterized by DNA damage and micronuclei, was only observed in A549 cells. These adverse effects of S-VO₂ were exposure time-, dose- and cell-dependent, and closely related to the solubility of S-VO₂. The oxidative stress in cells, i.e., enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and suppressed reduced glutathione, was the main toxicity mechanism of S-VO₂. The ROS-associated mitochondrial damage and DNA damage led to the genotoxicity, and cell proliferation retard, resulting in the cellular viability loss. Our results highlight the importance and urgent necessity of the investigation on the long-term toxicity of VO₂ NPs.

Effects of boron-containing compounds in the fungal kingdom

BACKGROUND

The number of known boron-containing compounds (BCCs) is increasing due to their identification in nature and innovative synthesis procedures. Their effects on the fungal kingdom are interesting, and some of their mechanisms of action have recently been elucidated.

METHODS

In this review, scientific reports from relevant chemistry and biomedical databases were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

It is notable that several BCC actions in fungi induce social and economic benefits for humans. In fact, boric acid was traditionally used for multiple purposes, but some novel synthetic BCCs are effective antifungal agents, particularly in their action against pathogen species, and some were recently approved for use in humans. Moreover, most reports testing BCCs in fungal species suggest a limiting effect of these compounds on some vital reactions.

CONCLUSIONS

New BCCs have been synthesized and tested for innovative technological and biomedical emerging applications, and new interest is developing for discovering new strategic compounds that can act as environmental or wood protectors, as well as antimycotic agents that let us improve food acquisition and control some human infections.

Antioxidant Potential of Ulexite in Zebrafish Brain: Assessment of Oxidative DNA Damage, Apoptosis, and Response of Antioxidant Defense System

In recent years, because of its significant biological roles, the usage of boron has been started in animal feeding. In this research, it was aimed to investigate the ulexite's action mechanism on the zebrafish brain with an evaluation of the oxidative parameters. The adult zebrafish were exposed to four ulexite doses (5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/l) in a static test apparatus for 96 h. For assessing the oxidative responses, multiple biochemical analyses were performed in brain tissues. The results indicated the supporting potential of low ulexite doses on the antioxidant system (< 40 mg/l) and that low-dose ulexite does not lead to oxidative stress in the zebrafish brain. Again, our results showed that low ulexite concentrations did not cause DNA damage or apoptosis. As a final result, in aquatic environments, ulexite (a boron compound) can be used in a safe manner, but it would be useful at higher concentrations to consider the damages of the cells that are probable to develop because of the oxidative stress.

Toxicity of boric acid, borax and other boron containing compounds: A review

Boron, often in the form of boric acid, is widely used as a flame retardant in insulation products, and although humans ingest boron through food, high exposure may lead to unwanted health effects. We assessed the toxicity of boric acid, borax and other forms of boron, after inhalation, dermal and oral exposure. After oral exposure, boron is absorbed over the gastrointestinal tract. Intact skin seems to pose a more effective barrier to boron than compromised skin. Boron excretion seems to mainly occur via the urine, although after skin exposure boron has been demonstrated in bile and gastrointestinal contents. Inhalation toxicity data are sparse, but one animal study showed reduced foetal weight after inhalation of cellulose that had a boric acid content of 20%. Skin exposure to boric acid has proven fatal in some cases, and the range of toxicity effects include abdominal as well as local effects on the skin. Fatalities from boric acid also have occurred after oral ingestion, and the endpoints in animals are weight loss and reproductive toxicity. Concerning genotoxicity studies, the overall picture indicates that boron-containing compounds are not genotoxic. There was no evidence of the carcinogenicity of boric acid in a 2-year study in mice.

In vitro effects of boric acid on human liver hepatoma cell line (HepG2) at the half-maximal inhibitory concentration

BACKGROUND

Boron is a prominent part of the human diet and one of the essential trace elements for humans. Dietary boron is mostly transformed into boric acid within the body and has been associated with desirable health outcomes. Non-dietary resources of boron, such as boron-based drugs and occupational exposure, might lead to excessive boron levels in the blood and provoke health adversities. The liver might be particularly sensitive to boron intake with ample evidence suggesting a relation between boron and liver function, although the underlying molecular processes remain largely unknown.

METHODS

In order to better understand boron-related metabolism and molecular mechanisms associated with a cytotoxic level of boric acid, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of boric acid for the hepatoma cell line (HepG2) was determined using the XTT assay. Cellular responses followed by boric acid treatment at this concentration were investigated using genotoxicity assays and microarray hybridizations. Enrichment analyses were carried out to find out over-represented biological processes using the list of differentially expressed genes identified within the gene expression analysis.

RESULTS

DNA breaks were detected in HepG2 cells treated with 24 mM boric acid, the estimated IC₅₀-level of boric acid. On the other hand, pleiotropic transcriptomic effects, including cell cycle arrest, DNA repair, and apoptosis as well as altered expression of Phase I and Phase II enzymes, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism were discerned in microarray analyses.

CONCLUSION

HepG2 cells treated with a growth-inhibitory concentration of boric acid for 24 h exhibited a senescence-like transcriptomic profile along with DNA damage. Further studies might help in understanding the concentration-dependent effects and mechanisms of boric acid.

Hematological and Hepatic Effects of Ulexite in Zebrafish

The ulexite (UX), a borate mineral, is used as boron source and commonly used in various industrial processes. The hematological and hepatic effects of UX were investigated by exposing adult zebrafish to UX (5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/L) over 96 hours. The blood and liver tissues were taken at the end of the trial period then micronucleus (MN) rates, oxidative DNA damage (8-OHdG), apoptosis (Caspase-3), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), myeloperoxidase (MPO), paraoxonase (PON), arylesterase (AR) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels were determined. Genotoxic damage by UX occurred only at 40 mg/L in the blood MN assay. Oxidative stress, oxidative DNA damage and apoptosis in liver also occurred at this dose. Moreover, 5-20 mg/L doses led to decreases of DNA damage and apoptosis levels via promoting antioxidant system in liver tissues. UX exhibits beneficial roles on blood and liver tissues of zebrafish at relatively lower doses, which may be relevant to nutritional and medicinal industries.

The effects of pretreatment with lithium metaborate dihydrate on lipid peroxidation and Ca, Fe, Mg, and K levels in serum of Wistar albino male rats exposed to Cd

Boron and boron compounds have beneficial biological effects. Lithium metaborate dihydrate (LMBDH) is used in many branches of industry. Despite its wide industrial use, there is limited information about its biological effects on antioxidant defense system and trace element homeostasis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo protective effects of LMBDH against CdCl₂-induced oxidative stress and imbalance of some bioelements for the first time. In the study, totally 20 Wistar albino male rats were used. The rats were fed with pellet food and water ad libitum and divided into four groups including five rats in each. Group I was control group (standard pellet food + water + normal saline), Group II was CdCl₂ (4.58 mg/kg/body weight/intraperitoneally/single dose), Group III was LMBDH (15 mg/kg/body weight/day orally, for 5 days), Group IV was CdCl₂ (4.58 mg/kg/body weight/intraperitoneally/single dose in fifth day), and LMBDH (15 mg/kg/body weight/day orally for 5 days). The results showed that CdCl₂ treatment increased blood MDA level and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and the level of blood GSH compared to control group. Pretreatment with LMBDH significantly decreased MDA levels and increased SOD activity (p < 0.05). In addition, Ca, Fe, and K levels decreased in LMBDH pretreatment group in different statistically levels. However, Mg levels showed an increase in LMBDH pretreatment group. As a result, LMBDH pretreatment decreased MDA status and supported antioxidant system by increasing SOD activity. In addition, it did not exhibit an ameliorative effect on measured bioelement homeostasis.

Borax Alleviates Copper-Induced Renal Injury via Inhibiting the DNA Damage and Apoptosis in Rainbow Trout

The aim of this study was to determine the therapeutic potential of borax against copper in the kidney tissue of the rainbow trout fed with added borax (BX) (1.25, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg) and/or copper (Cu) (500,1000 mg/kg) contents. For this purpose, two treatment groups had designed, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities were determined. Besides, oxidative DNA damage (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, 8-OHdG), caspase-3, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were assessed in kidneys of all treatment groups. In molecular pathway, hsp70, CYP1A, and antioxidant gene expression levels were determined. In the results of the analysis, antioxidant enzyme activity and gene expression were increased; 8-OHdG, caspase-3, and MDA levels were decreased in groups fed with borax supplemented feeds compared to the copper-treated group. The alterations among the groups were found as significant (p < 0.05). CYP1A and hsp70 gene expressions were upregulated in copper and copper combined groups (p < 0.05). The findings of present research showed that borax had alleviative effect on copper-induced toxicity and could be used as an antidote in fish nutrition.

Gene expression alterations of human liver cancer cells following borax exposure

Borax is a boron compound that is becoming widely recognized for its biological effects, including lipid peroxidation, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, antioxidant activity and potential therapeutic benefits. However, it remains unknown whether exposure of human liver cancer (HepG2) cells to borax affects the gene expression of these cells. HepG2 cells were treated with 4 mM borax for either 2 or 24 h. Gene expression analysis was performed using Affymetrix GeneChip Human Gene 2.0 ST Arrays, which was followed by gene ontology analysis and pathway analysis. The clustering result was validated using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A cell proliferation assay was performed using Celigo Image Cytometer Instrumentation. Following this, 2- or 24-h exposure to borax significantly altered the expression level of a number of genes in HepG2 cells, specifically 530 genes (384 upregulated and 146 downregulated) or 1,763 genes (1,044 upregulated and 719 downregulated) compared with the control group, respectively (≥2-fold; P<0.05). Twenty downregulated genes were abundantly expressed in HepG2 cells under normal conditions. Furthermore, the growth of HepG2 cells was inhibited through the downregulation of PRUNE1, NBPF1, PPcaspase-1, UPF2 and MBTPS1 (≥1.5-fold, P<0.05). The dysregulated genes potentially serve important roles in various biological processes, including the inflammation response, stress response, cellular growth, proliferation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis/oncolysis.

Environmental boron exposure does not induce DNA damage in lymphocytes and buccal cells of females: DNA damage in lymphocytes and buccal cells of boron exposed females

Boron (B) compounds are essential for plants and animals and beneficial for humans in nutritional amounts. I animals and humans increasing evidence have shown beneficial effects on B compounds on nutrition and on antioxidant status. The genotoxic effects of environmental B exposure in women living in boron-rich and boron-poor areas was examined in this study. For this purpose, the DNA damage in the lymphocytes and buccal cells of females were assessed by Comet and micronucleus (MN) assays respectively. No significant difference was observed in the DNA damage of the lymphocytes of B exposed groups of female volunteers in Comet assay. Even buccal micronucleus (MN) frequency observed in the high exposure group was significantly lower than the low exposure group (p < 0.05). The results of this study came to the same conclusions of the previous studies that boron does not induce DNA damage even under extreme exposure conditions.

Impact of chromium and boron compounds on the reproductive function in rats

The purpose of this research is to study the process of mutagenesis and the reproductive function in male rats under separate and combined exposure to chromium and boron compounds. The experiment was conducted on two groups of animals. The first group was used to assess the ability of potassium dichromate and boric acid to induce mutation in germ and somatic cells under isolated and combined administration with the use of the dominant lethal mutations test and the micronuclei test in the polychromatophilic erythrocytes of the bone marrow. The second group was used to test the combined and separate effect of the compounds under consideration on the reproductive function of male rats during the spermatogenesis cycle. When used in specific doses, boron compounds are a promising means of preventing and correcting chromium-induced effects in chromium production facility workers and people who live in ecologically adverse regions.

The carvacrol ameliorates acute pancreatitis-induced liver injury via antioxidant response

Acute pancreatitis (AP) may cause significant persistent multi-organ dysfunction. Carvacrol (CAR) possesses a variety of biological and pharmacological properties. The aim of the present study was to analyze the hepatic protection of CAR on AP induced by cerulein and to explore the underlying mechanism using in vivo studies. The rats were randomized into groups to receive (1) no therapy; (2) 50 µg/kg cerulein at 1-h intervals by four intraperitoneal injection (i.p.); (3) 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg CAR by one i.p.; and (4) cerulein + CAR after 2 h of cerulein injection. 12 h later, serum was provided to assess the blood AST, ALT and LDH values. Also, liver tissues were obtained for histological and biochemical measurements. Liver oxidative stress markers were evaluated by changes in the amount of lipid peroxides measured as MDA and changes in tissue antioxidant enzyme levels, SOD, CAT and GSH-Px. Histopathological examination was performed using scoring systems. Oxidative damage to DNA was quantitated in studied tissues of experimental animals by measuring the increase in 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) formations. We found that the increasing doses of CAR decreased pancreatitis-induced MDA and 8-OH-dG levels. Moreover, the liver SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activities in the AP + CAR group were higher than that of the rats in the AP group. In the treatment groups, AST, ALT and LDH were reduced. Besides, necrosis, coagulation and inflammation in the liver were alleviated (p < 0.05). We suggest that CAR could be a safe and potent new drug candidate for treating AP through its antioxidative mechanism of action for the treatment of a wide range of disorders related to hepatic dysfunction.

Genotoxic effects of boric acid and borax in zebrafish, Danio rerio using alkaline comet assay

The present study is conducted to determine the potential mechanisms of Boron compounds, boric acid (BA) and borax (BX), on genotoxicity of zebrafish Danio rerio for 24, 48, 72 and 96-hours acute exposure (level:1, 4, 16, 64 mg/l BA and BX) in semi-static bioassay experiment. For that purpose, peripheral erythrocytes were drawn from caudal vein and Comet assay was applied to assess genotoxicity. Acute (96 hours) exposure and high concentrations of boric acid and borax increases % tail DNA and Olive tail moment. Genotoxicity was found for BA as concentration-dependent and BX as concentration and time dependent manner. In general, significant effects (P < 0,05) on both concentrations and exposure times were observed in experimental groups. DNA damage was highest at 96 h and 24 h for all BX and BA concentrations, respectively in peripheral blood of D. rerio. For the first time, our study demonstrates the effect of waterborne BA and BX exposure on genotoxicity at the molecular level, which may contribute to understanding the mechanism of boric acid and borax-induced genotoxicity in fish.

The in vitro protective effect of salicylic acid against paclitaxel and cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity

Paclitaxel (PAC) and cisplatin (CIS) are two established chemotherapeutic drugs used in combination for the treatment of various solid tumors. However, the usage of PAC and CIS are limited because of the incidence of their moderate or severe neurotoxic side effects. In this study, we aimed to assess the protective role of salicylic acid (SA) against neurotoxicity caused by PAC and CIS. For this purpose, newborn Sprague Dawley rats were decapitated in sterile atmosphere and primary cortex neuron cultures were established. On the 10th day SA was added into culture plates. PAC and CIS were added on the 12th day. The cytotoxicity was determined by using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay. Oxidative alterations were assessed using total antioxidant capacity and total oxidative stress assays in rat primary neuron cell cultures. It was shown that both concentrations of PAC and CIS treatments caused neurotoxicity. Although SA decreased the neurotoxicity by CIS and PAC, it was more effective against the toxicity caused by CIS rather than the toxicity caused by PAC. In conclusion it was clearly revealed that SA decreased the neurotoxic effect of CIS and PAC in vitro.

Carvacrol modulates oxidative stress and decreases cell injury in pancreas of rats with acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is considered as major problem around the world and the incidence of AP is increasing. Carvacrol (CAR), a monoterpenic phenol, has good antioxidant activity. This in vivo study was designed to evaluate whether CAR provide protection against AP that developed by pancreas injury. The rats were randomised into groups to receive (I) no therapy; (II) 50 µg/kg cerulein at 1 h intervals by four intraperitonally (i.p.) injections; (III) 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg CAR by one i.p. injection; and (IV) cerulein plus CAR after 2 h of cerulein administration. 12 h later, serum samples were obtained to assess pancreatic function, the lipase and amylase values. The oxidative stress markers were evaluated by changes in the amount of lipid peroxides measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) and changes in main tissue antioxidant enzyme levels including SOD, CAT and GSH-PX. Histopathological examination was performed using scoring systems. Additionally, oxidative DNA damage was determined by measuring the increases of 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) formations. We found that the increasing doses of CAR decreased AP-induced MDA and 8-OH-dG levels. Moreover, the pancreas antioxidant enzyme activities were higher than that of the rats in the AP group when compared to the AP plus CAR group. In the treatment groups, the lipase and amylase were reduced. Besides, histopathological findings in the pancreatic tissue were alleviated (p < 0.05). We suggest that CAR could be a safe and potent new drug candidate for treating AP through its antioxidative mechanism of action for the treatment of a wide range of disorders related to pancreas.

Cytogenetic and oxidative alterations after exposure of cultured human whole blood cells to lithium metaborate dehydrate

Boron compounds have an ability of supporting antioxidant properties in human and animal tissues. Lithium metaborate dihydrate (LiBO2·2H2O; LMD) is commonly used in nonlinear optic materials, cellular phones and pagers. But, there are limited data on the genotoxic and antioxidant effects of LMD in cultured human whole blood cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate for the genotoxicity and antioxidant/oxidant activity of LMD on human whole blood lymphocytes (n = 5). LMD was applied at various concentrations (0-1,280 µg/ml) to cultured blood samples. Antioxidant/oxidant activity was evaluated by measuring the total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity levels. Micronuclei and chromosomal aberration tests were used in genotoxicity studies. Our results clearly revealed that all tested concentrations of LMD were found to be non-genotoxic when compared to that of the control group. In addition, LMD exhibited antioxidant activities at low concentrations. In addition the TOS levels were not changed at all concentrations of LMD. Consequently, our results clearly demonstrated that LMD is non-genotoxic and it has an important antioxidant potential in vitro.

Biosafety Evaluation of Nanoparticles in View of Genotoxicity and Carcinogenicity Studies: A Systematic Review

Nanoparticles (NPs) are used in various forms in consumer products including, cosmetics, food packaging, textiles and also in air and water cleaning, production of electro chromic windows, or smart windows and gas sensors. Many NPs have also been evaluated for potential use in biomedical applications as efficient delivery carriers for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Nowadays, NPs are being developed to create fascinating nanotechnology products. To develop NPs for broad applications, potential risks to human health and the environment should be evaluated and taken into consideration. Again, to translate these nanomaterials to the clinic and industrial domains, their biosafety needs to be verified, particularly in terms of genotoxic and carcinogenic effects. To evaluate evidenced-based practices for NPs safety, we performed a systematic review of the published English-language literature. We performed a systematic keyword search of PubMed for original research articles pertaining to reports on assessment of risks due to carcinogenic and mutagenic effects by different NPs. We identified 362 original articles available for analysis. The included studies were published between 1993 and 2012. The in vivo or in vitro genotoxicity studies were performed on only 18 out of 148 kinds of NPs in industry today. Likewise, the carcinogenicity investigations were performed on only 14 out of 148 NPs. The 10 types of the NPs including some titanium, aluminium, carbon black and silver molecules were found to have both mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. The important finding was also that there is a lack of systematic assessment of the DNA damaging and carcinogenic potential of NPs in spite of their extensive use in nanotechnological applications.

The cytogenetic effects of the aqueous extracts of migratory locust (Locusta migratoria L.) in vitro

One of the useful and most commonly cultivated commercially species, migratory locust ( Locusta migratoria; Orthoptera), was investigated in light of genotoxic damage potentials. For this aim, we evaluated the genotoxic potentials of water soluble extracts of L. migratoria on cultured human blood cells. The micronucleus, sister chromatid exchange and structural chromosome aberration assays were applied to assess DNA and chromosomal damage produced by aqueous extracts in vitro. The extracts were added to the cultures at different concentrations ranging from 0 to 1000 mg/L. Our results indicated that these extracts did not exhibit genotoxicity at tested concentrations. We conclude that this in vitro approach for biomonitoring genotoxicity assessment is useful for comparing the potential health risks of edible insects.

In vitro studies on chemoprotective effect of borax against aflatoxin B1-induced genetic damage in human lymphocytes

A common dietary contaminant, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), has been shown to be a potent mutagen and carcinogen in humans and many animal species. Since the eradication of AFB1 contamination in agricultural products has been rare, the use of natural or synthetic free radical scavengers could be a potential chemopreventive strategy. Boron compounds like borax (BX) and boric acid are the major components of industry and their antioxidant role has recently been reported. In the present report, we evaluated the capability of BX to inhibit the rate of micronucleus (MN) and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) formations induced by AFB1. There were significant increases (P < 0.05) in both SCE and MN frequencies of cultures treated with AFB1 (3.12 ppm) as compared to controls. However, co-application of BX (1, 2 and 5 ppm) and AFB1 resulted in decreases of SCE and MN rates as compared to the group treated with AFB1 alone. Borax gave 30-50 % protection against AFB1 induced SCEs and MNs. In conclusion, the support of borax was especially useful in aflatoxin-toxicated blood tissue. Thus, the risk on target tissues of AFB1 could be reduced and ensured early recovery from its toxicity.

Borax counteracts genotoxicity of aluminum in rat liver

This study was carried out to evaluate the protective role of borax (BX) on genotoxicity induced by aluminum (Al) in rat liver, using liver micronucleus assay as an indicator of genotoxicity. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly separated into six groups and each group had four animals. Aluminum chloride (AlCl3; 5 mg/kg b.w.) and BX (3.25 and 13 mg/kg b.w.) were injected intraperitoneally to rats. Besides, animals were also treated with Al for 4 consecutive days followed by BX for 10 days. Rats were anesthetized after Al and BX injections and the hepatocytes were isolated for counting the number of micronucleated hepatocytes (MNHEPs). AlCl3 was found to significantly ( p < 0.05) increase the number of MNHEPs. Rats treated with BX, however, showed no increase in MNHEPs. Moreover, simultaneous treatments with BX significantly modulated the genotoxic effects of AlCl3 in rats. It can be concluded that BX has beneficial influences and has the ability to antagonize Al toxicity.

Protective role of methanol extracts of two lichens on oxidative and genotoxic damage caused by AFB1 in human lymphocytes in vitro

In this study, the antigenotoxic and antioxidant effects of Umbilicaria vellea (UME) and Xantho somloensis (XME) extracts were determined using sister chromatid exchange (SCE), micronuclei (MN) assays, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels against the effects of aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1))-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in human lymphocytes in vitro. The results showed that the frequencies of SCE, MN, and MDA level decreased, but the activities of SOD and GPx increased when 5 μg/mL and 10 μg/mL doses of UME and XME were added to AFB(1)-treated cultures. Also the present results indicate that strong antioxidative and the antigenotoxicity mechanisms of UME and XME are associated with its antioxidant nature.

Protective role of methanol extract of Cetraria islandica (L.) against oxidative stress and genotoxic effects of AFB1 in human lymphocytes in vitro

In this study, the antigenotoxic and antioxidant effects of Cetraria islandica methanol (CME) extract were determined by using sister chromatid exchange (SCE), micronuclei (MN) assays and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels against effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB 1) induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in human lymphocytes in vitro. The results showed that the frequencies of SCE, MN and MDA level decreased, SOD and GPx activities increased when 5 μg/mL and 10 μg/mL doses of CME were added to AFBı-treated cultures. Also, the present results indicate that CME has strong antioxidative and the antigenotoxicity mechanisms of CME are associated with its antioxidant nature.