Lycopene and resveratrol ameliorate zinc oxide nanoparticles-induced oxidative stress in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

Molecular mechanisms underlying methotrexate-induced intestinal injury and protective strategies

Methotrexate (MTX) is a folic acid reductase inhibitor that manages various malignancies as well as immune-mediated inflammatory chronic diseases. Despite being frequently prescribed, MTX's severe multiple toxicities can occasionally limit its therapeutic potential. Intestinal toxicity is a severe adverse effect associated with the administration of MTX, and patients are significantly burdened by MTX-provoked intestinal mucositis. However, the mechanism of such intestinal toxicity is not entirely understood, mechanistic studies demonstrated oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions as key factors that lead to the development of MTX-induced intestinal injury. Besides, MTX causes intestinal cells to express pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which activate nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). This is followed by the activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway. Moreover, because of its dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) has been considered a critical signaling pathway that counteracts oxidative stress in MTX-induced intestinal injury. Several agents have potential protective effects in counteracting MTX-provoked intestinal injury such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, taurine, umbelliferone, vinpocetine, perindopril, rutin, hesperidin, lycopene, quercetin, apocynin, lactobacillus, berberine, zinc, and nifuroxazide. This review aims to summarize the potential redox molecular mechanisms of MTX-induced intestinal injury and how they can be alleviated. In conclusion, studying these molecular pathways might open the way for early alleviation of the intestinal damage and the development of various agent plans to attenuate MTX-mediated intestinal injury.

Hybrid nanovesicles derived from grapes and tomatoes with synergistic antioxidative activity

Edible plants, rich in antioxidant compounds, offer defense against oxidative stress-induced cellular damage. However, the antioxidative benefits of edible plant-derived molecules are limited due to their instability, poor solubility, and low bioavailability. Plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) have emerged as the next-generation nanotherapeutics and delivery platforms; yet, challenges including low purity, significant heterogeneity, insufficient enrichment of bioactive component and compromised therapeutic efficacy limit their application. In this study, a solvent-assisted vesicle hybridization technique was developed to engineer hybrid plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs), exemplified by grape and tomato-derived nanovesicles (GT-HNVs), which outperform their natural counterparts. The GT-HNVs demonstrated superior stability, enhanced radical-scavenging capabilities, and greater cellular uptake efficiency. Notably, GT-HNVs significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and improved antioxidative enzyme activities in L-02 cells. Moreover, they mitigated oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial damage, restoring the membrane potential and morphology. Collectively, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of hybrid PDNVs and offer an innovative strategy for their future research.

Molecular docking analysis and in vivo assessment of zinc oxide nanoparticle toxicity in zebrafish larvae

The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) being widely employed in several industries and consumer products, are raising concerns about their safety on aquatic biota and human health. This study aims to investigate the possible toxicological effects of ZnO-NPs through a combined in vivo and in silico approach. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to several ZnO-NPs concentrations and morphological alterations and lipid peroxidation (MDA) were investigated. Furthermore, molecular docking simulations were applied to study the intermolecular interactions of ZnO-NPs against critical embryonic proteins namely zebrafish hatching enzyme1 (ZHE1) as well as the superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Treatment with ZnO-NPs resulted in an increase in MDA concentration and a decrease in antioxidant enzyme levels. Besides a significant decrease in mRNA expression of key enzymes of ROS detoxification genes, a modulation of inflammatory genes with a low downregulation of tnf-α, and an upregulation of il-1β were observed. Docking study suggests that the delayed hatching and increased cellular oxidative stress in zebrafish embryos may occur through a synergistic mechanism based on the ZnO-NP-dependent inhibition of ZHE1 and SOD1 enzymes. The integration of in vivo assessments with in silico computational modeling provided a more comprehensive evaluation of potential physiological risks in zebrafish embryos associated with nanomaterial exposure.

Effects of alfa lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10 treatment on AFB1-induced oxidative, inflammatory, and DNA damages in rats

Food contamination with Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a worldwide concern that adversely affects animal and human health. The study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and/or co-enzyme Q10 (CQ10) against the harmful effects of AFB1 on the liver and kidneys. Fifty-six mature male Wistar Albino rats (180-200 g) were divided into seven groups, each with eight rats: (1) saline was given as a control, (2) ALA (100 mg/kg bw/day) was given by stomach gavage for fifteen days, and (3) CQ10 (10 mg/kg bw/day) was given by stomach gavage for fifteen days. Group (4) orally given AFB1 (2.5 mg/kg bw) on days 12th and 14th, (5) received AFB1 and ALA, (6) received AFB1 and CQ10, and (7) received AFB1, ALA, and CQ10, as previously described in the ALA, CQ10, and AFB1 groups. After the exposure to AFB1, a significant increase in liver markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH) and renal function tests (BUN and creatinine) was observed compared with the control. ALA and/or CQ10 significantly reduced enzymes of liver and renal functions, as compared with AFB1. AFB1 exposure threw off the balance between oxidants and antioxidants. Still, ALA and/or CQ10 made oxidative stress (MDA, NO, and 8-OHdG) much lower and antioxidant activities (GSH, GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT) much higher. When we used the two together, the activities matched the control levels. Interestingly, this study shows that ALA and CQ10 significantly lowered IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels compared to the control values when used together after AFB1 exposure caused robust inflammation. Some CQ10 treatment parameters significantly outperformed those of ALA. ALA and CQ10 together worked better than either one alone to protect against AFB1-induced toxicity in the hepatic and renal parenchyma in terms of reducing inflammation, preventing DNA damage, and fighting free radicals.

Aqueous extract-mediated green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles: Potential anti-tuberculosis agents

The emergence of drug-resistant strains in tuberculosis treatment underscores the urgency for novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the anti-tuberculosis activity of green-synthesized copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) using garlic and astragalus extracts. The physicochemical characterization of the nanoparticles confirms successful synthesis, followed by assessment of their antibacterial properties and safety profile. Rats infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis are treated with nanocomposites derived from garlic extract at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight. Evaluation includes the analysis of Early secreted antigenic target of 6 kDa (ESAT-6) expression and confirmation of antibodies through molecular assays. Administration of garlic and nanocomposites demonstrates significant inhibitory effects on tuberculosis progression in rats, validated by safety assessments and antibacterial efficacy. Notably, the 100 mg/kg dosage exhibits pronounced mitigation of tuberculosis-induced oxidative stress and lung damage. In conclusion, the combined administration of garlic extracts and green-synthesized nanocomposites shows promising efficacy in reducing tuberculosis infection, highlighting a potential avenue for anti-tuberculosis interventions.

Palladium Nanoparticles and Lung Health: Assessing Morphology-Dependent Subacute Toxicity in Rats and Toxicity Modulation by Naringin - Paving the Way for Cleaner Vehicular Emissions

The release of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) from autocatalytic converters has raised concerns regarding public health and the environment due to their emergence as anthropogenic contaminants. With growing vehicular population, there is an urgent need for comprehensive toxicological studies of PdNPs to mitigate their risk. The present study aims to investigate the effects of spherical PdNPs with average sizes of 20 and 80 nm, as well as Pd nanorods, on the lung function of female Wistar rats following oral exposure to environmentally relevant doses (1 and 10 μg/kg) over a period of 28 days. Various biological parameters were evaluated, including liver and kidney biochemical changes, lung oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH, LPO), lung inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6, and TNF-α), and histopathological alterations in the lungs. Additionally, the potential mitigating effects of naringin on PdNPs-induced toxicity were examined. The results demonstrate a significant increase in oxidative stress, the onset of inflammation, and histological changes in lung alveolar sacs upon exposure to all tested particles. Specifically, 20@PdNPs and PdNRs exhibited higher cytotoxicity and pro-inflammatory properties compared to 80@PdNPs. Naringin effectively attenuated the pulmonary toxicity induced by PdNPs by modulating oxidative and inflammatory pathways. These findings contribute to the sustainable development of PdNPs for their future applications in the biomedical and environmental sectors, ensuring the advancement of safe and sustainable nanotechnology.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles Disrupt ultrastructure and function of Rat thyroid tissue via oxidative stress

Nano-TiO2 is widely used in various fields such as industry, daily necessities, food and medicine. Previous studies have shown that it can enter mammalian tissues through the digestive tract or respiratory tract and have effects on various organs and systems. However, the effect of nano-TiO2 on the mammalian thyroid gland has not been reported. In this study, we fed SD rats with rutile nano-TiO2 at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight for 3 weeks, and then examined the thyroid histology and thyroid function of the rats. In vitro experiments were conducted to determine the effects of nano-TiO2 on the viability, apoptosis, inflammatory factors, antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative stress of human thyroid follicular epithelial cells. Histological evidence showed abnormal morphology of rat thyroid follicles and organelle damage in follicular epithelial cells. Nano-TiO2 caused a decrease in the level of sodium/iodide symporter (NIS), an increase in the level of apoptotic protein cleaved-caspase 3, and an increase in the levels of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α in rat thyroid tissue. Nano-TiO2 also resulted in increased serum FT4 and TPO-Ab levels. In in vitro experiments, nano-TiO2 reduced the viability of human thyroid follicular cells, downregulated the levels and activities of antioxidant enzymes CAT, GPX1 and SOD, and increased the levels of ROS and MDA caused by oxidative stress. These results indicate that nano-TiO2 damages the structure and function of thyroid follicular epithelial cells through oxidative stress. Long-term exposure to nano-TiO2 could be a potential risk factor for thyroid dysfunction.

Ecotoxicity of doped zinc oxide nanoparticles: Perspectives on environmental safety

Studies on the ecotoxicity of doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are recent, with the first publications starting in 2010. In this sense, this is the first study that comprehensively reviews the ecotoxicological effects of ZnO NPs doped with lanthanide elements to fill this literature gap. This research explores a multifaceted question at the intersection of nanotechnology, toxicology, and environmental science. Different types of dopants commonly used for ZnO doping were investigated in this review, focusing on the ecotoxicological effects of lanthanides as dopants. Bacteria were the main class of organisms used in ecotoxicological studies, since antimicrobial activity of these nanomaterials is extensively explored to combat the imminent problem of resistant bacteria, in addition to enabling the safe use of these nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Doping appears to exhibit greater efficacy when compared to undoped ZnO NPs in terms of antimicrobial effects; however, it cannot be said that it has no impact on non-target organisms. An extensive examination of the literature also establishes the importance and need to evaluate the effects of doped ZnO NPs on organisms from different environmental compartments in order to identify their potential impacts. We underscore the dearth of research information regarding the environmental toxicity/ecotoxicity of doped ZnO nanoparticles across various ecological levels, thereby limiting the extrapolation of findings to humans or other complex models. Therefore, we emphasize the urgency of a multi-parameter assessment for the development of sanitary and environmentally safe nanotechnologies.

Chitosan-TPP encapsulated quercetin nanoparticles: amplified protection mechanisms unveiled against Ethion-induced developmental toxicity through comprehensive in-vivo and in-silico elucidation

Aim

The study investigated Ethion-induced developmental toxicity in Wistar albino rats and the potential ameliorative effects of quercetin and nano-quercetin co-administration. Further, In-silico docking of Ethion and quercetin with MCL-1 was conducted.

Methodology

Quercetin nanoparticles were synthesized by ionic-gelation method. The encapsulated quercetin nanoparticles were characterized for Zeta size, UV-Vis spectroscopy, encapsulation efficiency, and TEM studies. Male rats were administered Ethion (high/low dose), quercetin, and nano-quercetin alone or in combination for 60 days. Female rats were introduced for mating on the 61st day, and pregnant females were observed for 20 gestational days. On GD 20, rats were sacrificed and evaluated for body/organ weight, reproductive indices, fetal morphology, skeletal, and visceral deformities.In silico binding energies of ethion and quercetin with MCL-1 were determined.

Results

Nanoparticle size was 363.2 ± 1.23 nm on day 0 and 385.63 ± 1.53 nm on day 60, with PDI of 0.247 and charge of 22.9 mV. Absorbance maxima were at 374 nm, with encapsulation efficacy of 85.16 ± 0.33%. EHD male crossed females showed decreased body/organ weights, reduced fertility, hematoma, cleft palate, tail curling, and absence of extremity. Nano-quercetin co-administration normalized parameters comparable to controls. Both Ethion and quercetin interacted with MCL-1, with quercetin exhibiting stronger binding energy.

Conclusion

Nano-quercetin demonstrated stronger antioxidant properties than quercetin, counteracting ethion-induced maternal/fetal abnormalities.

Protective effects of an alcoholic extract of Kaempferia galanga L. rhizome on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The rhizome of Kaempferia galanga L., a medicinal and edible Plant, was widely distributed in many Asian and African counties. It has been traditionally used to treat gastroenteritis, hypertension, rheumatism and asthma. However, there is a lack of modern pharmacology studies regarding its anti-gastric ulcer activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study is to investigate the protective effects of an extract from K. galanga L. rhizome (Kge) and its active components kaempferol and luteolin on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The kge was prepared by ultrasonic-assisted extraction, and the contents of kaempferol and luteolin were determined by HPLC. The mice were randomly divided into seven groups: blank control (0.5 % CMC-Na; 0.1 mL/10 g), untreatment (0.5 % CMC-Na; 0.1 mL/10 g), Kge (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg), kaempferol (100 mg/kg) and luteolin (100 mg/kg) groups. The mice were treated intragastrically once daily for 7 days. At 1 h post the last administration, the mice in all groups except the blank control group were intragastrically administrated with anhydrous alcohol (0.1 mL/10 g) once to induce gastric ulcer. Then, fasting was continued for 1 h, followed by sample collection for evaluation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay.

RESULTS

The contents of kaempferol and luteolin in Kge were determined as 3713 μg/g and 2510 μg/g, respectively. Alcohol induced severely damages with edema, inflammatory cell infiltration and bleeding, and the ulcer index was 17.63 %. After pre-treatment with Kge (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg), kaempferol and luteolin, the pathological lesions were obviously alleviated and ulcer indices were reduced to 13.42 %, 11.65 %, 6.54 %, 3.58 % and 3.85 %, respectively. In untreated group, the contents of Ca2+, myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, NO, cyclic adenosine monophosphate and histamine were significantly increased, while the contents of hexosamine, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and prostaglandin E2 were significantly decreased; the transcriptional levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, calcitonin gene related peptide, substance P, M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, histamine H2 receptor, cholecystokinin 2 receptor and H+/K+ ATPase were significantly increased when compared with the blank control group. After pre-treatment, all of these changes were alleviated, even returned to normal levels. Kge exhibited anti-gastric ulcer activity and the high dose of Kge (400 mg/kg) exhibited comparable activity to that of kaempferol and luteolin.

CONCLUSION

The study showed that K. galanga L., kaempferol, and luteolin have protective effects against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers. This is achieved by regulating the mucosal barrier, oxidative stress, and gastric regulatory mediators, as well as inhibiting the TRPV1 signaling pathway and gastric acid secretion, ultimately reducing the gastric ulcer index.

Dietary effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Allium sativum on growth, antioxidant status, hepatic and intestinal histoarchitecture, expression of growth- and immune-related genes, and resistance of Oreochromis niloticus to Aeromonas sobria

This study investigated the benefits of yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or garlic, Allium sativum supplementation in diets of Nile tilapia with regard to growth, antioxidant status, hepatic and intestinal histoarchitecture, expression of growth- and immune-related genes, and resistance to Aeromonas sobria infection. Fish (with an initial weight of 9.43 ± 0.08 g) were allocated to twelve hapas, organized into four triplicate treatment groups defined as control (no supplementation), yeast (4 g/kg diet), garlic (30 g/kg diet), and a mixture of both. This trial continued over a 60-day feeding period. Results revealed that combined treatment (yeast + garlic) demonstrated the most promising outcomes regarding growth, with significantly higher final body weights, weight gains, and specific growth rates compared to other groups. Moreover, this combination enhanced hepatic antioxidant status, as evidenced by elevated levels of reduced glutathione and activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes, reflecting improved defense against oxidative stress. Histological assessments of the livers and intestines demonstrated structural enhancements in yeast and garlic treatments, suggesting improvements in organ health. In comparison to the control, the gene expression analyses unveiled increased expression of growth-related (igf-1 and ghr1) and immune-related (il-10, lyz, and hep) genes in the test groups, indicating a possible reinforcement of the growth and immune responses. The combined treatment also showed the highest resistance to A. sobria infection, as evidenced by improved survival rates and lower mortality compared with the other groups. These findings highlight the benefits of a combination of both yeast and garlic as a dietary supplementation regimen. In conclusion, this study suggests that the combined treatment regimen could be considered an effective strategy to promote the health and productivity of Nile tilapia under production conditions.

Effect of moringa seed extract in chlorpyrifos-induced cerebral and ocular toxicity in mice

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the most commonly used organophosphosphate-based (OP) insecticides. Its wide use has led to higher morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. Moringa seed extracts (MSE) have shown neuroprotective activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial features. The literature lacks data investigating the role of MSE against CPF-induced cerebral and ocular toxicity in mice. Therefore, we aim to investigate this concern. A total of 40 mature male Wistar Albino mice were randomly distributed to five groups. Initially, they underwent a one-week adaptation period, followed by a one-week treatment regimen. The groups included a control group that received saline, MSE 100 mg/kg, CPF 12 mg/kg, CPF-MSE 50 mg/kg, and CPF-MSE 100 mg/kg. After the treatment phase, analyses were conducted on serum, ocular, and cerebral tissues. MSE100 and CPF-MSE100 normalized the pro-inflammatory markers (interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) and AChE serum levels. CPF-MSE50 significantly enhanced these serum levels compared to CPF; however, it showed higher levels compared to the control. Moreover, the tissue analysis showed a significant decrease in oxidative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO)) and an increase in antioxidant markers (glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX)), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in the treated groups compared to CPF. Importantly, the significance of these effects was found to be dose-dependent, particularly evident in the CPF-MSE100 group. We conclude that MSE has a promising therapeutic effect in the cerebral and ocular tissues of CPF-intoxicated mice, providing a potential solution for OP public health issues.

Beneficial role of amygdalin extracts against animal growth regulator Boldjan induced cardiac toxicity, injury and oxidative stress in male rats

Millions of individuals have used illicit anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), but the long-term cardiovascular associations of these drugs remain incompletely understood. Boldjan is AAS medication which is used in veterinary medicine and by young adults aiming to have a better appearance improving their self-esteem. Therefore; the objective of the current investigation was to examine any potential preventative effects of amygdalin extract against anabolic steroid Boldjan induced cardic toxicity, injury and oxidative stress in male rat. Forty adult male Wistar rats were classified into five groups (Gp1, Control Gp; Gp2, Amygdalin Gp in which rats treated with amygdalin (100 mg/kg body weight/day) daily for 2 weeks; Gp3, Boldjan Gp in which rats treated with Boldjan (10 mg/Kg BW/week) for 4 weeks; Gp4, Boldjan + Amygdalin). Boldjan induced a significant rises in serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and creatine kinase MB (CK MB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and very-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C), cardiac injury, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and a significant depletion in serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), cardiac reduced glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (Cat) activities as compared to control Gp. In contrast, Amygdalin significantly reversed the Boldjan induced cardiac toxicity in post treated rats Gp (Boldjan + Amygdalin). Amygdalin could be an efficient preventive supplement for mitigating Boldjan induced cardiac toxicity, possibly via controlling oxidative stress events.

Evaluation of different probiotics on growth, body composition, antioxidant capacity, and histoarchitecture of Mugil capito

We investigated the dietary effects of the single application of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, and their combination on growth, proximate composition of whole fish body, antioxidant defense, and histoarchitecture of hapa-reared Mugil capito. Healthy fish (Fish weighed = 10.30 ± 0.10 g at first) were randomly allocated into 4 equal groups, each with three replicates. These groups were designed as follows: (1) a group fed a basal diet without probiotics (control), (2) a group fed a diet containing S. cerevisiae (4 g/kg diet), (3) a group fed a diet containing L. bulgaricus (2 g/kg diet), and (4) the last group fed a diet containing a combination of both, all for a duration of 60 days. Probiotic-treated groups showed significantly better growth and nutrition utilization than the control group. Significant differences were observed in the crude fat and crude protein contents among the groups, with the combination group exhibiting the highest levels. However, there were no significant variations in ash content across all groups. The highest hepatic antioxidant capacity (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) enzyme activities) was observed in the combination group. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations were decreased significantly in all probiotic groups, suggesting improved oxidative stress resilience in these groups. The histomorphological analysis of the hepatopancreatic tissues revealed well-arranged parenchyma, increased glycogen storage, and melanomacrophage centers in probiotic-treated groups, particularly the combined probiotics group. Furthermore, the probiotic supplementation improved the histoarchitecture of the intestinal villi compared to the control group. To put it briefly, combined dietary administration of these probiotics improved growth, body composition, antioxidant defenses, and hepatic and intestinal health in hapa-reared M. capito, highlighting their promising role in promoting welfare and productivity.

Toxicity and Hepatoprotective Effects of ZnO Nanoparticles on Normal and High-Fat Diet-Fed Rat Livers: Mechanism of Action

This experiment aimed to evaluate the beneficial and toxic properties of synthetic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the liver of normal and high-fat diet (HFD) fed-rats. The ZnO NPs were synthesized and, its characterizations were determined by different techniques. Effect of ZnO NP on cell viability, liver enzymes and lipid accumulation were measured in HepG2 cells after 24 h. After that, rats orally received various dosages of ZnO NPs for period of 4 weeks. Toxicity tests were done to determine the appropriate dose. In the subsequent step, the hepatoprotective effects of 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs were determined in HFD-fed rats (experiment 2). The oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, inflammatory, and apoptosis pathways were measured. Additionally, the activity of caspase 3, nitric oxide levels, antioxidant capacity, and various biochemical factors were measured. Morphological changes in the rat livers were also evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) and Masson trichrome. Liver apoptosis rate was also approved by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Treatment of animals with 5 mg/ZnO NPs revealed potential hepatoprotective properties, while ZnO NPs at the doses of above 10 mg/kg showed toxic effects. Antioxidant enzyme gene expression and activity were significantly augmented, while apoptosis, NLRP3 inflammasome, and inflammation pathways were significantly reduced by 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs. Liver histopathological alterations were restored by 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs in HFD. Our study highlights the hepatoprotective effects of ZnO NPs against the HFD-induced liver damage, involving antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways, indicating their promising therapeutic potential.

Resveratrol impacts on aquatic animals: a review

Aquaculture has intensified tremendously with the increasing demand for protein sources as the global population grows. However, this industry is plagued with major challenges such as poor growth performance, the lack of a proper environment, and immune system impairment, thus creating stress for the aquaculture species and risking disease outbreaks. Currently, prophylactics such as antibiotics, vaccines, prebiotics, probiotics, and phytobiotics are utilized to minimize the negative impacts of high-density farming. One of the promising prophylactic agents incorporated in fish feed is resveratrol, a commercial phytophenol derived via the methanol extraction method. Recent studies have revealed many beneficial effects of resveratrol in aquatic animals. Therefore, this review discusses and summarizes the roles of resveratrol in improving growth performance, flesh quality, immune system, antioxidant capacity, disease resistance, stress mitigation, and potential combination with other prophylactic agents for aquatic animals.

Ecotoxicological effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on aquatic organisms: Current research and emerging trends

The rapid advancement of nanotechnology has contributed to the development of several products that are being released to the consumer market without careful analysis of their potential impact on the environment. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are used in several fields and are applied in consumer products, technological innovations, and biomedicine. In this sense, this study aims to compile existing knowledge regarding the effects of ZnO-NPs on non-target organisms, with the goal of ensuring the safety of human health and the environment. To achieve this objective, a systematic review of the available data on the toxicity of these nanomaterials to freshwater and marine/estuarine aquatic organisms was carried out. The findings indicate that freshwater invertebrates are the most commonly used organisms in ecotoxicological tests. The environmental sensitivity of the studied species was categorized as follows: invertebrates > bacteria > algae > vertebrates. Among the most sensitive species at each trophic level in freshwater and marine/estuarine environments are Daphnia magna and Paracentrotus lividus; Escherichia coli and Vibrio fischeri; Scenedesmus obliquus and Isochrysis galbana; and Danio rerio and Rutilus caspicus. The primary mechanisms responsible for the toxicity of ZnO-NPs involve the release of Zn2+ ions and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, the biosynthesis of ZnO-NPs has been presented as a less toxic form of production, although it requires further investigation. Therefore, the synthesis of the information presented in this review can help to decide which organisms and which exposure concentrations are suitable for estimating the toxicity of nanomaterials in aquatic ecosystems. It is expected that this information will serve as a foundation for future research aimed at reducing the reliance on animals in ecotoxicological testing, aligning with the goal of promoting the sustainable advancement of nanotechnology.

Neuroprotective effects of quercetin on the cerebellum of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnoNps)-exposed rats

Engineered nanomaterials induce hazardous effects at the cellular and molecular levels. We investigated different mechanisms underlying the neurotoxic potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on cerebellar tissue and clarified the ameliorative role of Quercetin supplementation. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into control group (I), ZnONPs-exposed group (II), and ZnONPs and Quercetin group (III). Oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA & TOS), antioxidant biomarkers (SOD, GSH, GR, and TAC), serum interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured. Serum micro-RNA (miRNA): miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-122-5p, miRNA-125b-5p, and miRNA-155-3p expression levels were quantified by real-time quantitative polymerase-chain reaction (RT-QPCR). Cerebellar tissue sections were stained with Hematoxylin & Eosin and Silver stains and examined microscopically. Expression levels of Calbindin D28k, GFAP, and BAX proteins in cerebellar tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry. Quercetin supplementation lowered oxidative stress biomarkers levels and ameliorated the antioxidant parameters that were decreased by ZnONPs. No significant differences in GR activity were detected between the study groups. ZnONPs significantly increased serum IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α which were improved with Quercetin. Serum miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-122-5p, miRNA-125b-5p, and miRNA-155-p expression levels showed significant increase in ZnONPs group, while no significant difference was observed between Quercetin-treated group and control group. ZnONPs markedly impaired cerebellar tissue structure with decreased levels of calbindin D28k, increased BAX and GFAP expression. Quercetin supplementation ameliorated cerebellar tissue apoptosis, gliosis and improved calbindin levels. In conclusion: Quercetin supplementation ameliorated cerebellar neurotoxicity induced by ZnONPs at cellular and molecular basis by different studied mechanisms.Abbreviations: NPs: Nanoparticles, ROS: reactive oxygen species, ZnONPs: Zinc oxide nanoparticles, AgNPs: silver nanoparticles, BBB: blood-brain barrier, ncRNAs: Non-coding RNAs, miRNA: Micro RNA, DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide, LPO: lipid peroxidation, MDA: malondialdehyde, TBA: thiobarbituric acid, TOS: total oxidative status, ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, H2O2: hydrogen peroxide, SOD: superoxide dismutase, GR: glutathione reductase, TAC: total antioxidant capacity, IL-1: interleukin-1, TNF: tumor necrosis factor alpha, cDNA: complementary DNA, RT-QPCR: Real-time quantitative polymerase-chain reaction, ABC: Avidin biotin complex technique, DAB: 3', 3-diaminobenzidine, SPSS: Statistical Package for Social Sciences, ANOVA: One way analysis of variance, Tukey's HSD: Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference, GFAP: glial fiberillar acitic protein, iNOS: Inducible nitric oxide synthase, NO: nitric oxide, HO-1: heme oxygenase-1, Nrf2: nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, NF-B: nuclear factor-B, SCI: spinal cord injury, CB: Calbindin.

Lycopene abolishes typical polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs)-induced hepatic injury in yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco): Involvement of ROS/PI3K-AKT/NF-κB signaling

Aquatic ecosystems are being more contaminated with polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs), which raising concerns about their impact on aquatic organisms. Lycopene (LYC) exhibits several beneficial properties for fish via enhance antioxidant defenses and improve immunity. In this study, we attempted to investigate the hepatotoxic effects of typical PHCZs 3, 6-dichlorocarbazole (3,6-DCCZ) and the protective mechanisms of LYC. In this study, we found that yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) exposure to 3,6-DCCZ (1.2 mg/L) resulted in hepatic inflammatory infiltration and disordered hepatocyte arrangement. Besides, we observed that 3,6-DCCZ exposure resulted in hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and excessive autophagosome accumulation, accompanied with inhibition of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway. Subsequently, we confirmed that 3,6-DCCZ exposure triggered hepatic uncontrolled inflammatory response via activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, along with decreased plasma complement C3 (C3) and complement C4 (C4) levels. Meanwhile, yellow catfish exposed to 3,6-DCCZ exhibit an increased hepatic apoptosis phenomenon, as evidenced by the elevated number of positive TUNEL cells and upregulated expression of caspase3 and cytochrome C (CytC). In contrast, LYC treatment could alleviate the 3,6-DCCZ-induced pathological changes, hepatic ROS accumulation, autophagy, inflammatory response and apoptosis. To sum up, this study provided the demonstration that LYC exerts hepatoprotective effects to alleviate 3,6-DCCZ-induced liver damage by inihibiting ROS/PI3K-AKT/NF-κB signaling in yellow catfish.

Biopolymer Chitosan Surface Engineering with Magnesium Oxide-Pluronic-F127-Escin Nanoparticles on Human Breast Carcinoma Cell Line and Microbial Strains

Nanotechnology has been recognized as a highly interdisciplinary field of the twenty-first century, with diverse applications in biotechnology, healthcare, and material science. One of the most commonly employed non-toxic nanoparticles, magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs), is simple, inexpensive, biocompatible, and biodegradable. Several researchers are interested in the biosynthesis process of MgO NPs through chemical and physical approaches. This is because of their simplicity, affordability, and environmental safety. In the current study, green MgO-Chitosan-Pluronic F127-Escin (MCsPFE) NPs have been synthesized and characterized via various techniques like UV-visible, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Energy dispersive X-ray composition analysis, Transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Photoluminescence, and Dynamic light scattering analyses. The average crystallite size of MCsPFE NPs was 46 nm, and a face-centered cubic crystalline structure was observed. Further, the antimicrobial effectiveness of NPs against diverse pathogens has been assessed. The cytotoxic potential of the nanoparticles against MDA-MB-231 cell lines was evaluated using the MTT test, dual AO/EB, JC-1, DCFH-DA, and DAPI staining procedures. High antimicrobial efficacy of MCsPFE NPs against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains as well as Candida albicans was observed. The findings concluded that the NPs augmented the ROS levels in the cells and altered the Δψm, leading to the initiation of the intrinsic apoptotic cell death pathway. Thus, green MCsPFE NPs possess immense potential to be employed as an effective antimicrobial and anticancer treatment option.

Development of food-grade antimicrobials of fenugreek oil nanoemulsion-bioactivity and toxicity analysis

Antimicrobials of natural origin are proving to be an effective solution to emerging antimicrobial resistance and its physiological side effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that essential oils encapsulated in the form of nanoemulsions have better antimicrobial activity than the oil itself, possibly due to its high stability, solubility, sustained release, and increased bioavailability. In the present study, fenugreek oil-a well-known antimicrobial and antioxidant-has been used to fabricate nanoemulsion (NE), with an objective to meet potential alternative to synthesized antimicrobials. A combination of three different components, water, fenugreek oil, and Tween 80, has been used to prepare the nanoemulsions of different size and one of the most stable nanoemulsion with lowest concentration of surfactant Tween 80 was used to assess its bioactivity, antimicrobial properties, and toxicity against human hepatic cell line. Among all the formulations, nano-emulsion with 2.5% oil concentration, 30 min sonication (hydrodynamic size 135.2 nm, zeta potential 36.8 mV, PDI 0.135, and pH 5.12), was selected for all studies. The nanoemulsion showed potential antibacterial activity against all the microbial strains (Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) used in this study. Interestingly, the nanoemulsion showed potential antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, known to show resistance against ampicillin. The toxicity evaluation in human hepatic cell line (WRL-68) indicated no significant toxicity of nanoemulsion up to the concentration of 800 µg/ml. The synthesized nanoemulsion thus has a translational potential as a food-grade non-toxic natural nanoantimicrobials.

Effects of dietary Chinese yam polysaccharide copper complex on growth performance, immunity, and antioxidant capacity of broilers

Chinese yam polysaccharide (CYP) has received attention in recent years owing to its positive nutritional and medicinal characteristics. Copper is an essential trace metal in animals, which plays an important role in iron absorption and hemoglobin synthesis. However, no published study has evaluated Chinese yam polysaccharide copper complex (CYP-Cu) as a dietary additive in broilers. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary CYP-Cu on growth performance, immunity, and oxidative resistance in broilers. A total of 360 1-day-old 817 broiler chickens were randomly divided into 4 groups, with 3 replicates of 30 birds each and were fed a basal diet with the addition of 0 (control group), 0.02, 0.10, and 0.50 g/kg CYP-Cu. The feeding trial lasted 48 days. On day 28 and day 48, 6 broilers in each group were slaughtered, respectively. Then the parameters of growth and carcass, serum biochemistry, immunity, and antioxidation, and the expression level of hepatic antioxidative genes were investigated. The results showed that compared with the control group, the supplementation of dietary CYP-Cu could improve the indexes of the growth, carcass, serum biochemistry, immunity and oxidation resistance in broilers, such as average daily gain (ADG), the slaughter percentage (SP), semi-evisceration weight percentage (SEWP), eviscerated carcass weight percentage (EWP), breast muscle percentage (BMP), leg muscle percentage (LMP), serum albumin (ALB), high density lipoprotein (HDL), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), growth hormone (GH), insulin (INS), immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 6 (IL-6), complement 3 (C3), complement 4 (C4), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione s-transferase (GSH-ST); these parameters in the 0.10 g/kg CYP-Cu treated group were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the total trial period, with the exceptions that feed conversion ratio (FCR) and serum low density lipoprotein (LDL), malondialdehyde (MDA) were decreased in the total trial period. In addition, the antioxidative gene mRNA expression of Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf ₂), Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD ₁), Superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD ₂), and Catalase (CAT) were upregulated in the liver (P < 0.05). These results indicated that the supplementation of dietary CYP-Cu improved the growth, immunity, and oxidation resistance of broilers, and the addition of 0.10 g/kg CYP-Cu in broiler diets is recommended, which suggests that CYP-Cu may be a promising green feed additive in the poultry industry.

Potential Benefits of Lycopene Consumption: Rationale for Using It as an Adjuvant Treatment for Malaria Patients and in Several Diseases

Malaria is a disease that affects thousands of people around the world every year. Its pathogenesis is associated with the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and lower levels of micronutrients and antioxidants. Patients under drug treatment have high levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in the body tissues, which limits the use of these drugs. Therefore, several studies have suggested that RONS inhibition may represent an adjuvant therapeutic strategy in the treatment of these patients by increasing the antioxidant capacity of the host. In this sense, supplementation with antioxidant compounds such as zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E has been suggested as part of the treatment. Among dietary antioxidants, lycopene is the most powerful antioxidant among the main carotenoids. This review aimed to describe the main mechanisms inducing oxidative stress during malaria, highlighting the production of RONS as a defense mechanism against the infection induced by the ischemia-reperfusion syndrome, the metabolism of the parasite, and the metabolism of antimalarial drugs. Furthermore, the effects of lycopene on several diseases in which oxidative stress is implicated as a cause are outlined, providing information about its mechanism of action, and providing an evidence-based justification for its supplementation in malaria.

Effects of Tomato Paste By-Product Extract on Growth Performance and Blood Parameters in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

This research examined different growth performances and blood parameters of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) consuming diets supplemented with tomato paste by-product extract (TPE). Five diets with different concentrations of TPEs, 0% (TPE0) 0.5% (TPE0.5), 1% (TPE1), 2% (TPE2), and 5% (TPE5) were supplied to 300 common carp (8.38 ± 0.18 g) (60 fish per group) each day during the 60-day feeding trial. The relative and specific growth rates of fish-fed supplemental diets increased significantly, while the feed conversion ratio significantly decreased (p < 0.05). TPE considerably increased the erythrocyte count (RBC), hemoglobin content (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) (p < 0.05), according to hematological analyses of blood samples collected after the feeding experiment. The blood biochemical findings indicate that using 1% or more extracts considerably reduced the serum glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride ratios while significantly increasing the total protein, albumin, and globulin ratios in common carp (p < 0.05). Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that the 2% extract generated from tomato paste by-products in common carp diets could be utilized as a growth-promoting product without any negative effects on blood parameters linked to feeding in carp.

Dietary Administration of Engineered Nano-selenium and Vitamin C Ameliorates Immune Response, Nutritional Physiology, Oxidative Stress, and Resistance Against Aeromonas hydrophila in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Functional trace elements and vitamins can boost immunity and anti-oxidative response in aquatic animals with effects on nutritional physiology. Nano-selenium (nano-Se) and vitamin C (VC) have been used as immunomodulators and antioxidants in fish feed. The present work was performed to determine the protective effects of diets supplemented with different combinations of nano-Se and VC on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Triplicate groups of 20 fish/tank (13.87 ± 0.10 g) were reared and fed with basal diet (control-T1) (without supplementation of nano-Se and VC) and three experimental diets as T2, T3, and T4 (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg VC respectively) with a pre-determined dose of nano-Se (1.0 mg/kg) for 90 days. Different immune indices, haemato-biochemical, and antioxidant activities were measured at the end of the first, second, and third months of feeding. The findings depicted that significantly (p < 0.05) higher growth was observed in T4. Red blood cells, white blood cells, and haemoglobin were found significantly (p < 0.05) higher in T4 for the third month. Serum biochemical-immunological indices (alkaline phosphatase, glucose, cholesterol, lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, total protein, albumin and globulin) followed the same trend. Furthermore, antioxidant assays such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, and malondialdehyde were significantly (p < 0.05) improved in T4 for the third month. Significantly (p < 0.05) least cumulative mortality against Aeromonas hydrophila was obtained in the fish-fed diets incorporated with nano-Se and VC. Therefore, dietary supplementation with nano-Se and VC is noteworthy for improving growth, serum biochemical status, immune response, antioxidant status, and disease resistance.

Resveratrol ameliorates oxidative stress, inflammatory response and lipid metabolism in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fed with high-fat diet

High-fat diet is regarded as crucial inducers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic imbalance. In order to investigate the ameliorative potential of resveratrol against the progression of liver injury towards steatohepatitis, common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were distributed into six experimental groups and were fed with a normal-fat diet, a high-fat diet, and supplemented with resveratrol (0.8, 1.6, 2.4, and 3.2 g/kg diet) for 8 weeks. The high-fat diet decreased the antioxidant capacities, as well as causing the inflammatory response and lipid deposition of common carp. Resveratrol induced a marked elevation in the final body weight, weight gain rate, condition factor and significant decrease in the feed conversion ratio. Moreover, dietary resveratrol showed a significant decrease in the alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels, which was accompanied by an increase in high-density lipoprotein concentration in serum. A significant elevation in total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and a decreased malondialdehyde content were observed, along with a substantial elevation in antioxidant activities were found. Additionally, fish fed with resveratrol had an up-regulation of hepatic catalase, copper, zinc superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase 1a, and glutathione peroxidase 1b gene expression via Nrf2 signaling pathway. Expectedly, our results also demonstrated that resveratrol regulates hepatic lipid metabolism in fish by inhibiting the expression of hepatic lipogenesis genes (acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, fatty acid synthase, and sterol regulatory element binding protein 1), fatty acid uptake-related genes of lipoprotein lipase, and β-oxidation-related genes via PPAR-γ signaling pathway. Furthermore, dietary resveratrol reduced inflammation, as evident by down-regulating the interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α expression levels and upregulating the interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β2 expression levels via NF-κB signaling pathway. As a whole, our results demonstrated that resveratrol defensed the impacts against high-fat diet on the serum biochemical, hepatic antioxidants, inflammation, and lipid metabolism.

Protective effects of resveratrol against genotoxicity induced by nano and bulk hydroxyapatite in Drosophila melanogaster

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a naturally occurring calcium phosphate mineral predominantly used for its biocompatibility in a number of areas such as bone grafting, prosthesis coating in dentistry, and targeted drug delivery. Since the nano form of HAp (nHAp) has gained popularity attributed to a re-mineralizing effect in dental repair procedures, concerns have been raised over safety and biocompatibility of these nanoparticles (NP). This study, therefore, aimed to (1) investigate mechanisms of potential genotoxicity and enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) initiated by bulk and nano forms of HAp and (2) test in vivo whether resveratrol, a type of natural phenol, might mitigate the extent of potential DNA damage. The size of nHAp was determined to be 192.13 ± 9.91 nm after dispersion using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Drosophila melanogaster was employed as a model organism to determine the genotoxic potential and adverse effects of HAp by use of (comet assay), mutagenic and recombinogenic activity (wing spot test), and ROS-mediated damage. Drosophila wing-spot tests demonstrated that exposure to nontoxic bulk and nHAp concentrations (1, 2.5, 5 or 10 mM) produced no significant recombination effects or mutagenicity. However, bulk and nHAp at certain doses (2.5, 5 or 10 mM) induced genotoxicity in hemocytes and enhanced ROS production. Resveratrol was found to ameliorate the genotoxic effects induced by bulk HAp and nHAp in comet assay. Data demonstrate that treatment with nano and bulk Hap-induced DNA damage and increased ROS generation D. melanogaster which was alleviated by treatment with resveratrol.

Differential aggregation of polystyrene and titanium dioxide nanoparticles under various salinity conditions and against multiple proteins types

The interaction of nanoplastics (NPls) and engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) with organic matter and environmental pollutants is particularly important. Therefore, their behavior should be investigated under the different salinity conditions, mimicking rivers and coastal environments, to understand this phenomenon in those areas. In this work, we analyzed the elementary characteristics of polystyrene-PS (unmodified surface and modified with amino or carboxyl groups) and titanium dioxide-TiO2 nanoparticles. The effect of salinity on their colloidal properties was studied too. Also, the interaction with different types of proteins (bovine serum albumin-BSA and tilapia proteins), as well as the formation of the BSA corona and its effect on the colloidal stability of nanoparticles, were evaluated. The morphology and dispersion of sizes were more uniform in unmodified-surface PS-NPs (70.5 ± 13.7 nm) than in TiO2-NPs (131.2 ± 125.6 nm). Likewise, Rama spectroscopy allowed recognizing peaks associated with the PS phenyl group aromatic ring in unmodified-surface PS-NPs (621, 1002, 1582, and 1602 cm^-1). For TiO2-NPs, the data suggest belonging to the tetragonal form, also known as rutile (445, 610 cm^-1). The elevation of salinity dose-dependently decreased NP colloid stability, with more significant variation in the PS-NPs compared to TiO2-NPs. The organic matter is also involved in this phenomenon, differentially as a function of time compared to its absence (unmodified-surface PS-NPs 30 psu/TOC 5 mgL^-1/24 h: 2876.6 ± 378.03 nm; unmodified-surface PS-NPs 30 psu/24 h: 2133 ± 49.57 nm). In general, the TiO2-NPs demonstrated greater affinity with all proteins tested (0.066 g/L). It was observed that morphology, size, and surface chemical modification intervene in a relevant way in the interaction of the nanoparticles with bovine serum albumin (unmodified-surface PS-NPs 298 K: 6.08E⁺⁰²; 310 K: 6.63E⁺⁰²; TiO2-NPs 298 K: 8.76E⁺⁰²; 310 K: 1.05E⁺⁰³ L mol^-1) and tilapia tissues proteins (from blood, gills, liver, and brain). Their morphology and size also determined the protein corona formation and the NPs' agglomeration. These findings can provide references during knowledge transfer between NPls and ENPs.

Modulatory role of dietary curcumin and resveratrol on growth performance, serum immunity responses, mucus enzymes activity, antioxidant capacity and serum and mucus biochemicals in the common carp, Cyprinus carpio exposed to abamectin

In this study, we investigate the potentials of dietary curcumin and resveratrol on blood biochemistry, immune responses and resistance to the toxicity of the pesticide, abamectin. 540 common carps (30.78 ± 0.17 g) were randomly distributed into 18 tanks (30 fish per tank), as six experimental groups (T1: non-supplemented and on-exposed fish, T2: 300 mg/kg curcumin, T3: 300 mg/kg resveratrol, T4: 12.5% LC₅₀ of abamectin, T5: 300 mg/kg curcumin +12.5% LC₅₀ of abamectin, T6: 300 mg/kg resveratrol + 12.5% LC₅₀ of abamectin). Use of 300 mg/kg resveratrol in the diet of non-abamectin exposed fish improved the growth performance (P < 0.05), while such effects were not observed for curcumin (P > 0.05). There were no differences in the final weight (FW), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and weight gain (WG) between control and fish of the treatments, resveratrol + abamectin and curcumin + abamectin (P < 0.05). The immune components in blood [lysozyme, complement activity, Total immunoglobulin (total Ig), protease, myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitro-blue-tetrazolium (NBT), peroxidase, albumin] and mucus [acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), esterase, antiprotease)] and antioxidant enzymes [(superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] exhibited various change patterns compared to the control group, however, these components were almost all higher in fish supplemented with curcumin and resveratrol in an abamectin-free medium than in control and other groups (P < 0.05). In most cases, the levels of immune and antioxidant components in the control did not show significant difference with the treatments, resveratrol + abamectin and curcumin + abamectin (P > 0.05). Abamectin induced oxidative stress in fish, as the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels significantly increased in the exposed fish compared to non-exposed groups (P < 0.05). It appears that neither curcumin nor resveratrol were as effective in preventing oxidative stress, because MDA levels were higher in exposed fish (abamectin, curcumin + abamectin, resveratrol + abamectin) than in control and non-exposed individuals (P < 0.05). Curcumin and resveratrol also showed protective effects on liver, since the levels of liver metabolic enzymes [aspartate transaminase (AST), ALP, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)] were lower in the supplemented fish in a abamectin-free medium than in control (P < 0.05). Curcumin and resveratrol also mitigated the stress responses in the exposed fish, as cortisol and glucose levels showed significant decreases in the supplemented fish (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study revealed that abamectin can depress the growth and immunity in the common carp. Although, both resveratrol and curcumin were mitigated the toxic effects of abamectin, it seems that resveratrol be more effective than curcumin.

Water hardness alleviates the stress response caused by waterborne zinc in goldfish Carassius auratus

In this study, the combined effect of waterborne Zn and water hardness on the stress response in the goldfish Carassius auratus was investigated. Goldfish were exposed to Zn concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/L and water hardness of 90, 270, and 450 mg/L CaCO₃ for 1, 3, 7, and 14 d. After exposure, it was determined that higher the Zn concentration, the more obvious the stress response. However, the stress response reduced with increasing water hardness. An increase in the Zn concentration caused stress responses in fish according to the increase in the mRNA expressions of corticotropin-releasing hormone and adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol level in the hypothalamus-pituitary-interrenal axis. The expression of these factors was the highest on day 7 and decreased on day 14. Furthermore, to evaluate the stress change in the liver tissue, we analyzed alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and heat shock protein 70 concentrations to determine the damage caused by Zn and the change in water hardness. Immunohistochemistry staining for Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase in the gills showed that the gill activity was inhibited by Zn, and an increase in water hardness could improve Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase. In conclusion, we found that increasing water hardness is a successful method to reduce the stress response in goldfish caused by Zn.

The Optimum Lipid Level for the Juvenile Redclaw Crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus: Practical Diets with Soybean Oil as the Lipid Source

As a new species in aquaculture, the lipid nutrition requirement for the juvenile redclaw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus on a dietary basis on a practical formula needs to be evaluated accurately. In this study, the optimum dietary lipid level was explained by analyzing the growth performance, antioxidant state, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota of C. quadricarinatus after an eight-week cultivation trial. Six diets with different soybean oil levels (named L0, L2, L4, L6, L8, and L10) were fed to C. quadricarinatus (11.39 ± 0.28 g). The results indicated that the specific growth rate and weight gain of crayfish fed the L4 and L6 diets were significantly higher than those of the other groups (P < 0.05). By the analysis of a second-order polynomial regression model according to growth performance (weight gain rate), the optimum lipid level in a practical diet for juvenile C. quadricarinatus was 9.67%. The survival, condition factor, and hepatosomatic index of crayfish were not significantly affected by dietary oil levels (P > 0.05). As the level of dietary lipids increased, the total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase activity in serum showed a tendency to rise and then fall and the enzyme activity was highest in crayfish fed the L6 diet. Gut lipase and pepsin activities showed the highest value in crayfish fed the L6 diet. There was no significant difference in acetyl-CoA carboxylase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 contents in crayfish among all the groups (P > 0.05). The relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the phylum and Citrobacter in the genus showed a significant decrease in crayfish of the L10 diet, while the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the phylum markedly increased compared to that of the other groups (P < 0.05). In summary, the results indicated that the 10.39% (L6 diet) dietary lipid level could induce better growth performance, antioxidant ability, and digestive enzyme activity. Most of the fatty acid composition of muscle is not closely related to the fatty acid composition of the diet. Moreover, the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota of C. quadricarinatus were changed by high dietary lipid levels.

Effects of Dietary Carbohydrate Levels on Growth Performance, Body Composition, Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, and Liver Morphology in Oncorhynchus mykiss under Cage Culture with Flowing Freshwater

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of dietary carbohydrate levels on growth performance, body composition, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and liver morphology in Oncorhynchus mykiss under cage culture with flowing freshwater. Fish (initial body weight 25.70 ± 0.24 g) were fed five isonitrogenous (420 g/kg protein) and isolipidic (150 g/kg lipid) diets containing 50.6, 102.1, 151.3, 200.9 and 251.8 g/kg carbohydrate levels, respectively. The results indicated that fish fed diets containing 50.6-200.9 g/kg carbohydrate showed significantly higher growth performance, feed utilization, and feed intake than those fed 251.8 g/kg dietary carbohydrate levels. Based on the analysis of the quadratic regression equation for weight gain rate, the appropriate dietary carbohydrate requirement of O. mykiss was estimated to be 126.2 g/kg. 251.8 g/kg carbohydrate level activated Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway, suppressed superoxide dismutase activity and total antioxidant capacity, and increased MDA content in the liver. Besides, fish fed a diet containing 251.8 g/kg carbohydrate showed a certain degree of hepatic sinus congestion and dilatation in the liver. Dietary 251.8 g/kg carbohydrate upregulated the mRNA transcription level of proinflammatory cytokines and downregulated the mRNA transcription level of lysozyme and complement 3. Whole-body compositions were not affected by dietary carbohydrate levels. In conclusion, 251.8 g/kg carbohydrate level suppressed the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and innate immunity, resulting in liver injury and inflammatory response of O. mykiss. A diet containing more than 200.9 g/kg carbohydrate is not efficiently utilized by O. mykiss under cage culture with flowing freshwater.

Improvement of the antioxidant activity of thyme essential oil against biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles-induced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and disturbances in gene expression in vivo

BACKGROUND

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) are widely utilized in medicine and industry; however, their safety in biological organisms is still unclear. In this study, we determined the bioactive constitutes of thyme essential oil (TEO) and utilized the nanoemulsion technique to improve its protective efficiency against oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and DNA damage of biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs).

METHODS

TEO nanoemulsion (TEON) was prepared using whey protein isolate (WPI). Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups and treated orally for 21 days including the control group, TEO, or TEON- treated groups (5 mg/kg b.w), TiO₂-NPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w) and the groups received TiO₂-NPs plus TEO or TEON. Blood and tissues samples were collected for different assays.

RESULTS

The GC-MS analysis identified 17 bioactive compounds in TEO and thymol and carvacrol were the major compounds. TEON was irregular with average particles size of 230 ± 3.7 nm and ζ-potential of -24.17 mV. However, TiO2-NPs showed a polygonal shape with an average size of 50 ± 2.4 nm and ζ-potential of -30.44 mV. Animals that received TiO2-NPs showed severe disturbances in liver and kidney indices, lipid profile, oxidant/antioxidant indices, inflammatory cytokines, gene expressions, increased DNA damage, and pathological changes in hepatic tissue. Both TEO and TEON showed potential protection against these hazards and TEON was more effective than TEO.

CONCLUSION

The nanoemulsion of TEO enhances the oil bioactivity, improves its antioxidant characteristics, and protects against oxidative damage and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs.

Anticolitic activity of prodigiosin loaded with selenium nanoparticles on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease associated with extensive mucosal damage. Prodigiosins (PGs) are natural bacterial pigments with well-known antioxidant and immunosuppressive properties. In the current study, we examined the possible protective effect of PGs loaded with selenium nanoparticles (PGs-SeNPs) against acetic acid (AcOH)-induced UC in rats. Thirty-five rats were separated into five equal groups with seven animals/group: control, UC, PGs (300 mg/kg), sodium selenite (Na2SeO3, 2 mg/kg), PGs-SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg), and 5-aminosalicylates (5-ASA, 200 mg/kg). Interestingly, PGs-SeNPs administration lessened colon inflammation and mucosal damage as indicated by inhibiting inflammatory markers upon AcOH injection. Furthermore, PGs-SeNPs improved the colonic antioxidant capacity and prevented oxidative insults as evidenced by the upregulation of Nrf2- and its downstream antioxidants along with the decreased pro-oxidants [reactive oxygen species (ROS), carbonyl protein, malondialdehyde (MDA), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and nitric oxide (NO] in the colon tissue. Furthermore, PGs-SeNPs protected intestinal cell loss through blockade apoptotic cascade by decreasing pro-apoptotic proteins [Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and caspase-3] and increasing anti-apoptotic protein, B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2). Collectively, PGs-SeNPs could be used as an alternative anti-colitic option due to their strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic activities.

Al2O3 nanoparticles trigger the embryonic hepatotoxic response and potentiate TNF-α-induced apoptosis-modulatory effect of p38 MAPK and JNK inhibitors

Recent evidences illustrated that the release of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al₂O₃-NPs) into the biosphere may pose risk to the environment and cause adverse effects on living organisms including humans. The current study assessed the hepatotoxic effects of Al₂O₃-NPs on developing chicken embryo and cell culture models. Results demonstrated that Al₂O₃-NPs exposure causes histological abnormalities and increased the level of tissue damage markers (ALP, AST, and ALT) in the embryonic liver. Furthermore, increased oxidative stress (TBARS) and impaired function of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) were also observed. Moreover, it adversely affects red blood cells (RBC) morphology, liver metabolism, and stress response gene expression (HO-1 and NQO-1). Dose-dependent ROS generation and cytotoxic response in addition to potentiating effect on tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-induced apoptosis (caspase-3 activity) were also observed. Inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathways modulates Al₂O₃-NPs-induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Novel mechanisms behind embryonic hepatotoxicity, cytotoxic potentiating effects, and possible prevention strategies have been explored.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles induce dose-dependent toxicosis in broiler chickens reared in summer season

This research evaluates the effect of dietary zinc oxide nanoparticles' (ZnO NPs) supplementation on growth performance, immunity, oxidative antioxidative properties, and histopathological picture of broiler chicken reared in the summer season. A total of 224 1-day-old male Cobb chicks were randomly allocated to seven groups of dietary treatments (n = 32). Seven isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets were formulated. ZnO NPs were added to the basal diet at seven different levels, 0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 60, and 80 ppm/kg diet, respectively, for 35 days. Results indicated that live body weight (g) did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between treatment groups, whereas compared to control, the 5 ppm ZnO NPs/kg diet recorded the highest live body weight at 21 and 35 days. No significant effects for the feed consumption (g/bird/period) and feed conversion ratio (g feed/g gain) among treated and control birds were observed. Hematological and immunological variables showed significant (P ≤ 0.05) dose-dependent modulations by ZnO NP supplementation. Significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences were observed in the phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and IgM and IgG between the treatment groups, with the 5 and 10 ppm ZnO NPs/kg diet recording the best values, followed by the 20 ppm ZnO NPs/kg diet. Different supplementations had nonsignificant effects on the digestibility of nutrients (P ≤ 0.05). Histopathological pictures of the kidney, liver, and lymphoid organs, ultrastructural examination of muscle tissues, and expression of inflammatory cytokines showed dose-dependent morphological and structural changes. In conclusion, the ZnO NP supplementation in broiler diet to eliminate the heat stress hazards in summer season is recommended in dose level of not more than 10 ppm/kg diet.

Beneficial Changes in Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Response, Hepatic Health, and Flesh Quality of Trachinotus ovatus Fed With Oedocladium carolinianum

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of astaxanthin-rich Oedocladium carolinianum as an immunostimulant in the diet for Trachinotus ovatus. Three experimental diets containing 0% (OC0), 1% (OC1), and 5% (OC5) O. carolinianum powder were formulated for 6-week feeding trials. The results indicated that the OC5 diet boosted the growth performance through decreasing the feed conversion ratio and increasing digestive enzyme activities and intestinal villus length. Meanwhile, fish fed with the OC5 diet promoted antioxidant ability via stimulating the Nrf2-ARE signal pathway and enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities. Furthermore, the OC5 diet exerted hepatoprotective effects by suppressing the lipid deposition and inflammation response and enhancing the transport capacity of cholesterol. Besides, the OC5 diet improved the non-specific immunity by activating the lysozyme and complement system and increasing the nitric oxide content and total nitric oxide synthase activity. Dietary O. carolinianum supplementation promoted the deposition of astaxanthin in the whole body. Therefore, a diet supplemented with 5% O. carolinianum is recommended to boost the growth, antioxidant capacity, immune response, and flesh quality of T. ovatus.

Alleviation of nicotine-induced reproductive disorder, clastogenicity, and histopathological alterations by fenugreek saponin bulk and nanoparticles in male rats

Nicotine is the most abundant ingredient in cigarette smoking and has serious side effects on the lung, heart, reproductive system, and many other human organs. Saponins extracted from many plants exhibit multiple biological actions such as anti-cancer effects. Therefore, the possible protective effect of fenugreek saponin (FS) and nanofenugreek saponin (NFS) against nicotine-induced toxicity in male rats was investigated in this study. Animals were divided into a control group and the nicotine (1.5 mg/kg/day), FS (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day), or/and NFS (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg/day) administered groups. Micronucleus assay, histopathological, and sperm abnormality examinations as well as measurement of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) gene expression were conducted. Our findings revealed that nicotine treatment induced significant increases in the incidence of micronucleus, sperm abnormalities, and expression levels of AChE in addition to inducing histopathological changes in rat testis. On the other hand, administration of FS or NFS with nicotine significantly decreased the incidence of micronuclei and the percentage of sperm abnormalities as well as the expression levels of AChE gene. Moreover, nicotine-induced histological alterations were reduced by given FS or NFS with nicotine. In conclusion, nicotine-induced sperm abnormalities, chromosomal damage, and histological injuries were mitigated by administration of FS or NFS with nicotine, and thus, FS and NFS could be used as ameliorating agents against nicotine toxicity.

Biochemical and histopathological investigation of the protective effects of melatonin and vitamin E against the damage caused by acetamiprid in Balb-c mouse testicles at light and electron microscopic level

The protective effects of melatonin (Mel) and vitamin E (Vit E) against the negative effects of acetamiprid (Acmp) on testicles, reproductive hormones, and oxidative stress parameters were investigated in the present study. A total of 50 Balb-c male mice were used in 7 groups; 6 mice in the control groups (distilled water, corn oil, ethanol), and 8 in other groups (Acmp, Acmp + Mel, Acmp + Vit E, Acmp + Vit E + Mel). After the experiment, which lasted 21 days, hematoxylin eosin (H&E), periodic acid Schiff (PAS), and caspase-3 immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed on the testicular tissues. Also, the tissues were examined ultrastructurally with the transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the Acmp group, there were decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelial thickness, epithelial degeneration, decreased spermatozoa in the lumen, decreased PAS-positive staining in the seminiferous epithelial basement membrane, edema in the interstitial area, and hydropic degeneration in Leydig cells. Caspase-3 immunoreactivity was higher than in the other groups. TEM examination showed degeneration in tubule cells, lysosomal accumulation in cells of the spermatogenic line, vacuolizations with myelin figures, and necrosis. Hydropic degeneration, electron-dense lipid vacuoles, and chromatolysis were evident in the Leydig cell cytoplasm. In Sertoli cells, electron-dense lysosomal deposits were noted. In biochemical terms, there were decreased tissue glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant status (TAS), and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant status (TOS). Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone levels were decreased. In the groups with melatonin, vitamin E, and both were applied together, tissue damage, and apoptotic cell death were reduced at both light microscopic and ultrastructural levels. In biochemical terms, there were decreased oxidative parameters and increased hormonal parameters. It was found that vitamin E was more effective in decreasing oxidative parameters and increasing antioxidative parameters when compared to melatonin, and hormonal parameters increased at a higher level in the Acmp + Vit E group than in all groups. As a result, it was found that exposure to Acmp caused damage to testicular tissue, induced oxidative stress in testicles, and decreased plasma LH, FSH, and testosterone levels, and although vitamin E is more effective than melatonin in preventing this damage, both are effective.

Comparison of the Toxic Effects of Pristine and Photocatalytically Used TiO2 Nanoparticles in Mice

TiO₂ nanoparticles used in the photocatalytic degradation of pollutants in water treatment processes undergo physiochemical changes; therefore, their toxicological effects may be potentially different from those of the pristine nanoparticles. This study compared the toxic effects of exposure to pristine and photocatalytically used TiO₂ nanoparticles in mice. To obtain used TiO₂, the nanoparticles were used for photocatalytic degradation of a model pollutant under UV irradiation several times. Two groups of mice were exposed to pristine (PT group) and photocatalytically used TiO₂ (UT group) at three different concentrations (5-20 mg/m³) using whole-body exposure chambers (2 h/day, 5 days/weeks, 4 weeks). Exposure to both pristine and used TiO₂ increased the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphate (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), and creatine kinase (CK-MB) significantly. Both exposed groups showed higher levels of WBC, lymphocytes, platelets, hematocrits, hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and lower levels of RBC and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in a concentration-dependent manner. In all analyses, there were small non-significant differences between the PT and UT groups. More pathological changes were observed in the lung, kidney, and brain of the UT group, while the PT group showed more pathological effects in the liver and heart. The histological observations indicated that damage was mostly in the form of vascular endothelial injury. These two types of TiO₂ may activate different pathways to promote adverse effects. Further studies are required to evaluate and distinguish the mechanisms through which pristine and used TiO₂ induce toxicity.

Reproductive toxicity investigation of silica nanoparticles in male pubertal mice

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), one of the most produced nanoparticles (NPs) in the world, are used in all aspects of life. The increased application of SiNPs, especially in medicine, has raised considerable concern regarding their toxicological impact. Previous studies have shown that SiNPs can pass through the reproductive barrier and cause reproductive organ dysfunction by destroying Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and germ cells. However, little is known about the mechanism of SiNPs-induced reproductive toxicity. In the present study, 5-week-old male mice were intraperitoneally administered SiNPs per day for 1 week at a dose of 0.2 mg per mouse. The results showed that SiNPs could cause damage to the structure of the testis and the epididymis and change the reproductive organ coefficients, leading to decreases of 56.1% and 55.3% in the rates of sperm concentration and motility and an increase of 168.8% in the rate of sperm abnormality. Moreover, the serum testosterone level obviously decreased from 18.77 to 5.23 µg/ml after exposure, and the transcription statuses of some key genes involved in the synthesis and transport of testosterone in the testis were also affected. Additional experiments showed that SiNPs exposure during puberty induced oxidative stress and an inflammatory response, as shown by the changed activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), increased contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), and excess expression of proinflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-1β. Furthermore, the administration of SiNPs caused DNA damage and cell apoptosis, which were presented by the increased apoptotic cells in the sections of testis and epididymis and activation of the TNF-α/TNFR I-mediated pro-apoptotic pathway. In conclusion, these results indicate that SiNPs exposure during puberty significantly damaged the structure and function of the testis and epididymis by inducing oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. This study provides novel insight into SiNPs-induced reproductive toxicity during puberty, which warrants a more careful assessment of SiNPs before their application in juvenile supplies.

Testicular toxicity of cisplatin in rats: ameliorative effect of lycopene and N-acetylcysteine

Lycopene (LP) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) protective effects were assessed for testicular toxicity mediated by cisplatin (CP) in rats. Forty-nine rats were divided into 7 groups (n = 7); these groups included the control group (saline, PO), LP (10 mg/kg, PO), NAC (150 mg/kg, PO), CP (7.5 mg/kg, IP) on the 27th day of the study, LP + CP, NAC+CP, and LP + NAC + CP. Serum levels of testosterone were decreased following CP injection. Malondialdehyde (MDA) has been increased with considerable glutathione (GSH), and dismutase superoxide (SOD) and catalase (CAT) decline in the testis tissues after CP injection. CP caused severe alterations in testicular tissues and elevated caspase-3 expression. Besides that, LP and/or NAC administration improved CP-induced testicular toxicity and apoptosis, probably via their antioxidant properties.

Wound healing properties of green (using Lawsonia inermis leaf extract) and chemically synthesized ZnO nanoparticles in albino rats

Wound healing is one of the utmost medical issues in human and veterinary medicine, which explains the urgent need for developing new agents that possess wound healing activities. The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of green and chemical zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) for wound healing. ZnO-NPs (green using Lawsonia inermis leaf extract and chemical) were synthesized and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The gels containing the nanomaterials were prepared and inspected. Forty-five albino rats were divided into three groups, the control group was treated with normal saline 0.9%, and the other two groups were treated with gels containing green or chemical ZnO-NPs, respectively. On the 3^rd, 7^th, 14^th, and 21^st days post-treatment (PT), the wounds were clinicopathologically examined. Both nanomaterials have good crystallinity and high purity, but green ZnO-NPs have a longer nanowire length and diameter than chemical ZnO-NPs. The formed gels were highly viscous with a pH of 6.5 to 7. The treated groups with ZnO-NP gels showed clinical improvement, as decreased wound surface area (WSA) percent (WSA%), increased wound contraction percent (WC%), and reduced healing time (p < 0.05) when compared with the control group. The histological scoring showed that the epithelialization score was significantly higher at the 21^st day post-treatment in the treated groups than in the control group (p < 0.05), but the vasculature, necrosis, connective tissue formation, and collagen synthesis scores were mostly similar. The green and chemical ZnO-NP gels showed promising wound healing properties; however, the L. inermis-mediated ZnO-NPs were more effective.

Effects of dietary protein on water quality, growth performance, RNA/DNA ratio and haemato-immunological indices of soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis)

In aquatic animals, dietary protein plays a crucial role in their growth and immunity. A feeding trial was conducted on soft-shelled turtles (Pelodiscus sinensis) to assess the effects of various levels of protein on the specific growth rate (SGR), ambient water quality (total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP)), hematological parameters (respiratory burst (RB), red blood cell count (RBC), albumin content (Alb), hemoglobin level (Hb) and osmolality), plasma immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels and lysozyme activity. Soft-shelled turtles weighing about 4.02 g were fed fish meal-based diets with 14.38%, 20.41%, 26.19%, 32.23%, 37.63% and 45.23% protein for 8 weeks. SGR, RBC, Hb, Alb, RB, IgM and lysozyme activity were enhanced as the dietary protein was increased from 14.38% to 26.19%, then reached a plateau. For identical feeding times, TAN and TN were increased with elevating dietary protein levels. While, no statistically significant differences were observed among the 26.19%, 32.23% and 37.63% groups. When the turtles were cultivated for 56 days and fed with 45.23% protein, the TP in the culturing water was higher than that in the other groups. An increase in dietary protein level up to 26.19% increased the RNA/DNA ratio, which subsequently plateaued at a steady level. The levels of dietary protein had no impact on osmolality or alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity. On the basis of broken-line analyses derived from SGR, the optimum dietary protein level for soft-shelled turtles was found to be 27.11% protein.

The ameliorative effects of cinnamon oil against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats by regulating oxidative stress and promoting angiogenesis

Cinnamon is one of the herbal resources belonging to the Lauraceae family, is commonly used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring agent. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, the present study was performed to evaluate the gastroprotective effect of cinnamon on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in comparison to omeprazole. In Wistar rats, gastric ulcers were induced using one oral dose of 70% ethanol (5 ml/kg b. w.) Cinnamon oil at doses of 2.5 ml/kg body weight and omeprazole (a reference drug) at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight were orally administrated daily for 7 days before ulcer induction. 1 h after ethanol administration blood samples were collected and then the stomachs of sacrificed rats were subjected to biochemical, macroscopic and histological, and immunohistochemical studies. Oral administration of cinnamon oil significantly attenuated gastric ulcer as revealed by a significant increase in the gastric levels of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants namely CAT, SOD, GSH-Px, and GSH with a concomitant reduction in MDA level compared with those in the ethanol group. Pre-treatment of cinnamon oil markedly improved the level of TNF-α and PGE content. Furthermore, cinnamon oil pre-treatment significantly increased the immunoreactivity of VEGF while decreasing the immunoreactivity of COX-II. These results were further supported by histopathological findings which revealed the curing effect of cinnamon oil on the microscopic changes induced by ethanol toxicity. Cinnamon oil showed a potential gastroprotective effect on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer comparable to the gastroprotective effect of omeprazole, and its effect may be mediated through suppression of oxidative stress and gastric inflammation and promotion of angiogenesis.

Comparative Study of the Components and Anti-Fatigue Effect of Schisandra chinensis Polysaccharides from China and Russia

Schisandra chinensis Bail. polysaccharides from China (CSP) and Russia (RSP) were separated by DEAE-52 cellulose column chromatography. The content of neutral polysaccharide was determined by the phenol concentrated sulfuric acid method, the content of acid polysaccharide by the hydroxybiphenyl method, and the monosaccharide composition and molecular weight arrangement of CSP and RSP by 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) pre-column derivatization HPLC. The effects of CSP and RSP on the exercise endurance of mice were compared by the forelimb grip strength test, rota-rod test and weight-bearing swimming. The results showed that one neutral polysaccharide and three acidic polysaccharides could be eluted from a DEAE-52 cellulose column from CSP and RSP, respectively. The content of acidic and neutral polysaccharides in RSP was higher than that in CSP, and the anti-fatigue effect of RSP was more significant than that of CSP.

2, 3-Dimethylsuccinic acid and fulvic acid attenuate lead-induced oxidative misbalance in brain tissues of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus

Lead has long been known as neurotoxic and immunotoxic heavy metal in human and animals including fish, whereas, 2, 3-dimethylsuccinic acid (DMSA) and fulvic acid (FA) are well-known biological chelators. The present investigation was carried out to assess the potential chelating and antioxidant effects of dietary supplementation with DMSA and FA against lead acetate (Pb)-induced oxidative stress in Nile tilapia, O. niloticus. One-hundred and eighty apparently healthy O. niloticus fish (30 ± 2.5 g) were allocated into six equal groups. The first group was fed on basal diet and served as control, while the second group was fed on DMSA-supplemented basal diets at levels of 30 mg/kg diet; the third group was fed on FA-supplemented basal diet at level of 0.3 mg/kg diet; the forth, fifths, and sixth groups were exposed to 14.4 mg Pb /L water (1/10 LC50) and feed on basal diet only, basal diet supplemented with DMSA (0.3 mg/kg diet), or basal diet supplemented with FA (0.3 mg/kg diet), respectively. Antioxidant and lipid peroxidative status, activity of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as well as the histopathologic findings were evaluated in brain tissues, while the Pb residues were evaluated in liver, muscles, and brain tissues. The results of the present study showed that DMSA and FA decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and Pb residue in tissues of Pb-exposed fish and improved the histologic picture and brain contents of glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), G6PD, LDH, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). It could be concluded that DMSA and FA supplementation exhibited potential neuroprotective effect against Pb-induced oxidative brain damages in O. niloticus through improvement of antioxidant status of the brain tissue.

Protective effects of different concentrations of selenium nanoparticles on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) primary hepatocytes under heat stress

Heat stress leads to altered expression of associated heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are critical molecular chaperones related to cellular function in living organisms. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), a nanocomposite form of Se, have a protective effect against heat stress-induced cellular damage. In this study, primary rainbow trout hepatocytes were isolated to identify the protective function of SeNPs in rainbow trout hepatocytes. Experiments were divided into five groups and SeNPs were added at concentrations of 0, 2.0, 3.0, 5.0 and 8.0 μg/mL and incubated at 18 ℃ for 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h respectively. Hepatocyte viability, GSH-Px and SOD activity were enhanced and MDA content was reduced following the addition of SeNPs. Expression of GSH-P1 and genes related to HSPs (including HSP70a, HSP60, HSP90β, HSP10 and HSP47) were significantly increased and the optimal concentration of SeNPs for adding to hepatocytes was identified as 5.0 µg/mL. Adding 5.0 µg/mL SeNPs following heat stress (24 ℃) increased hepatocyte viability, GSH-Px and SOD activity, while MDA levels first decreased and then increased. Expression of GSH-P1 and genes related to HSPs (including HSP70a, HSP60, HSP90β, HSP10 and HSP47) were significantly higher than controls. In summary, SeNPs and slight heat stress synergistically enhanced the expression of GSH-P1 and HSPs and protected hepatocytes from heat stress damage, suggesting that SeNPs is a potential hepatocyte protective therapeutic agent.

Pharmacological and ameliorative effects of Withania somnifera against cadmium chloride-induced oxidative stress and immune suppression in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (W. somnifera) against cadmium chloride-induced toxicity in the Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five experimental groups were designed: group (I) was free from cadmium chloride and W. somnifera and served as a control, group (II) was exposed to 1.775 mg L^-1 of cadmium chloride only (which is equivalent to 1/4 96-h LC50), while groups (III), (IV), and (V) were exposed to 1.775 mg cadmium chloride L^-1 with co-supplementation of dietary W. somnifera in doses of 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 mL kg^-1 body weight (bwt), respectively. The experiment lasted for 4 weeks. In the second and fourth weeks of the experiment, the following indicators were evaluated: hematological (hemogram and blood protein profile), biochemical (activities of serum liver enzymes, namely alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST)), immunological (immunoglobulin M (IgM), serum lysozyme), and tissue antioxidant changes (malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)). Additionally, gene expressions of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in the liver were assessed. At the end of the experiment, all fish in all groups were experimentally challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and the relative protection survival (RPS) was demonstrated. The results revealed that groups exposed to cadmium chloride toxicity and co-supplemented with dietary aqueous extract of W. somnifera at high doses showed significant ameliorative effects in hemogram parameters, total protein, globulin, IgM, and lysozyme against cadmium chloride-induced toxicity compared to the control group and the group exposed to a sublethal dose of cadmium chloride without co-suplemntation of W. somnifera. The results showed also that groups supplemented orally with W. somnifera at high doses have higher antioxidant activities of CAT and SOD and reduction of MDA formation. Levels of gene expressions of GST in the liver were higher in W. somnifera extract-supplemented groups more than those in the group exposed to cadmium chloride-induced toxicity without W. somnifera supplementation. In addition, the results revealed improved RPS with the dietary supply of W. somnifera extract in high doses. In conclusion, this study showed that the dietary supplementation of W. somnifera extract to diets of O. niloticus could be suggested as an effective way to overcome cadmium chloride-induced toxicity because it improves blood parameters and antioxidants, and it can be used as an immunostimulant against the invading bacterial pathogens.