Oxidative stress and the etiology of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes

Accelerated biological aging: unveiling the path to cardiometabolic multimorbidity, dementia, and mortality

Background

Cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) and aging are increasing public health concerns. This prospective study used UK Biobank cohort to investigate the relationship between biological aging and the trajectory of CMM to dementia and mortality.

Methods

CMM is the coexistence of at least two cardiometabolic diseases (CMD), including stroke, ischemic heart disease, and diabetes. Biological age was calculated using the KDM-BA and PhenoAge algorithms. Accelerated aging indicated biological age advances more rapidly than chronological age.

Results

The study included 415,147 individuals with an average age of 56.5 years. During the average 11-year follow-up period, CMD-free individuals with accelerated aging had a significantly greater risk of CMD (KDM-BA, HR 1.456; PhenoAge, HR 1.404), CMM (KDM-BA, HR 1.952; PhenoAge, HR 1.738), dementia (KDM-BA, HR 1.243; PhenoAge, HR 1.212), and mortality (KDM-BA, HR 1.821; PhenoAge, HR 2.047) in fully-adjusted Cox regression models (p < 0.05 for all). Accelerated aging had adjusted HRs of 1.489 (KDM-BA) and 1.488 (PhenoAge) for CMM, 1.434 (KDM-BA) and 1.514 (PhenoAge) for dementia, and 1.943 (KDM-BA) and 2.239 (PhenoAge) for mortality in participants with CMD at baseline (p < 0.05 for all). CMM significantly mediated accelerated aging's indirect effects on dementia by 13.7% (KDM-BA, HR) and 21.6% (PhenoAge); those on mortality were 4.7% (KDM-BA) and 5.2% (PhenoAge). The population attributable-risk of Life's Essential 8 score (≥80 vs. <80) were 0.79 and 0.43 for KDM-BA and PhenoAge accelerated aging, respectively.

Conclusion

Biological aging involves the entire trajectory of CMM from a CMD-free state to CMD, to CMM, and ultimately to dementia and death. Life's Essential 8 may be a potential target to counter age acceleration.

Association between oxidative balance scores and all-cause and cardiovascular disease-related mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes: data from the national health and nutrition examination survey (2007-2018)

BACKGROUND

Oxidative Balance Scores (OBS) is composite measures that assess the balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant factors in an individual's diet and lifestyle. Evidence on OBS and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetic patients is scarce. This study investigates the potential association between OBS and CVD-prevalence and all-cause and CVD-related mortality in adult diabetic patients.

METHODS

Participants were selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2018. OBS-related data collection was initiated by linking the National Death Index to determine mortality due to all-cause and cardiovascular disease until December 31, 2019. Weighted logistic regression analyses explored the relationship between OBS and CVD. In addition, multivariable Cox proportional risk regression models and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to determine the correlation between OBS and mortality, with time to event as the time variable, as well as to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 3491 participants were included in the final analysis. Weighted logistic regression analysis of the relationship between OBS and CVD prevalence found that higher OBS was not associated with CVD prevalence compared with lower levels after fully adjustment in model 3 (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.51-1.31, P = 0.39). During 3,491 person-years of follow-up, 408 deaths were recorded, of which 105 deaths were attributed to CVD. In fully adjusted model 3, participants in the highest quartile of OBS had significant reductions in all-cause mortality of 53% [HR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.29-0.77), Ptrend= 0.002] and in cardiovascular disease mortality of 78% [HR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.08-0.56), Ptrend= 0.004], compared with the lowest quartile groups of OBS. The Kaplan-Meier analysis results showed that participants in the highest quartile of OBS had the lowest risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality and were statistically different (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis confirmed that P for interaction was significant only concerning the educational level attained and in individuals with a history of CKD (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although OBS wasn't very useful for assessing CVD prevalence outcomes, higher OBS was significantly associated with lower all-cause and CVD-related mortality, suggesting that maintaining adequate OBS may reduce mortality in patients with DM.

1,2-Dicinnamoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Upregulates mtDNA-Encoded Genes in Insulin-Resistant 3T3-L1 Adipocytes: A Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance is a condition characterized by a reduced biological response to insulin. It is one of the most common metabolic diseases in modern civilization. Numerous natural substances have a positive effect on metabolism and energy homeostasis including restoring the proper sensitivity to insulin. There may be several possible mechanisms of action. In the present study, we elucidated two natural compounds with an impact on insulin signaling in IR adipocytes involving mitochondria.

METHODS

Mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes with artificially induced insulin resistance by palmitic acid (16:0) were used for the study. Cinnamic acid and 1,2-dicinnamoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholin (1,2-diCA-PC) were tested at three concentrations: 25 μM, 50 μM, and 125 μM. The number of mitochondria and the expression of genes encoded by mtDNA were elucidated in control and experimental cells.

RESULTS

Experimental cells treated with 1,2-diCA-PC displayed increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in a dose-dependent manner, accompanied by an increase in mtDNA copy number. Moreover, in experimental cells treated with 1,2-diCA-PC at a concentration of 125 μM, a significant increase in the expression level of all analyzed genes encoded by mtDNA compared to control cells was observed. Our study showed a relationship between improved cellular sensitivity to insulin by 1,2-diCA-PC and an increase in the number of mitochondria and expression levels of genes encoded by mtDNA.

CONCLUSIONS

To summarize, the results suggest the therapeutic potential of cinnamic acid derivative 1,2-diCA-PC to enhance the insulin sensitivity of adipocytes.

Maternal Polyphenols and Offspring Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health

BACKGROUND

The convergence of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic disorders at the pathophysiological level has led to the recognition of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, which represents a significant global health challenge. Polyphenols, a group of phytochemicals, have demonstrated potential health-promoting effects.

METHODS

This review highlights the impact of maternal polyphenol supplementation on the CKM health of offspring.

RESULTS

Initially, we summarize the interconnections between polyphenols and each aspect of CKM syndrome. We then discuss in vivo studies that have investigated the use of polyphenols during pregnancy and breastfeeding, focusing on their role in preventing CKM syndrome in offspring. Additionally, we explore the common mechanisms underlying the protective effects of maternal polyphenol supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this review underscores the potential of early-life polyphenol interventions in safeguarding against CKM syndrome in offspring. It emphasizes the importance of continued research to advance our understanding and facilitate the clinical translation of these interventions.

Key characteristics of carcinogens meet hallmarks for prevention-cutting the Gordian knot

The complexity of cancer requires a comprehensive approach to understand its diverse manifestations and underlying mechanisms. Initially outlined by Hanahan and Weinberg in 2000 and updated in 2010, the hallmarks of cancer provide a conceptual basis for understanding inherent variability in cancer biology. Recent expansions have further elucidated additional hallmarks, including phenotypic plasticity and senescent cells. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has identified the key characteristics of carcinogens (KCCs) to evaluate their carcinogenic potential. We analyzed chemicals of concern for environmental exposure that interact with specific receptors to induce genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, immune suppression, and receptor-mediated effects, thereby contributing to chronic inflammation. Despite their varying degrees of carcinogenicity, these chemicals have similar KCC profiles. Our analysis highlights the pivotal role of receptor binding in activating most other KCCs, underscoring their significance in cancer initiation. Although KCCs are associated with early molecular or cellular events, they do not encompass processes directly linked to full cellular malignancy. Thus, there is a need to integrate clear endpoints that anchor KCCs to the acquisition of a complete malignant phenotype into chemical testing. From the perspective of toxicology and cancer research, an all-encompassing strategy that incorporates both existing and novel KCCs and cancer hallmarks is essential to enable the targeted identification of prevalent carcinogens and facilitate zone-specific prevention strategies. To achieve this goal, collaboration between the KCC and cancer hallmarks communities becomes essential.

Coated cysteamine and choline chloride could be potential feed additives to mitigate the harmful effects of fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome in laying hens caused by high-energy low-protein diet

The research aimed to examine the impact of coated cysteamine (CS) and choline chloride (CC) on relieving the pathological effects of fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) in laying hens. FLHS was induced by a high-energy low-protein (HELP) diet. Ninety laying hens were equally divided into 5 treatments with 6 replicates per treatment (3 hens/replicate). The control treatment (Cont) was fed a basal diet, while the remaining treatments were fed a HELP diet. Under the HELP dietary plan, 4 treatments were set by a 2 × 2 factorial design. Two levels of CS (CS-: 0.00 mg/kg CS; CS+: 100 mg/kg diet) and 2 levels of choline (CC-: 1,182 mg/kg; CC+: 4,124 mg/kg) were set and named CS-CC- (HELP), CS+CC-, CS-CC+ and CS+CC+. The liver of the CS-CC- (HELP) group became yellowish-brown and greasy, with hemorrhages and bleeding spots. Elevated (P < 0.05) plasma and hepatic ALT and AST and hepatic MDA levels, combined with reduced (P < 0.05) plasma and hepatic SOD and GSH-Px activities in the CS-CC- (HELP) group proved that FLHS was successfully induced. Dietary supplementation of CS, CC, or both (CS+CC+) in HELP diets relieved the pathological changes, significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the AST and ALT levels, and strengthened the antioxidant potential in laying hens under FLHS. The highest (P < 0.001) plasma adiponectin concentration was observed in the CS+CC- and lowest in the CS-CC- (HELP) group. In addition, CS and CC supplementation lowers the elevated levels of hepatic T-CHO and TG by increasing the HDL-C and reducing LDL-C levels (P < 0.05) than CS-CC- (HELP) group. CS supplementation, either alone or with CC, helps laying hens restore their egg production. It could be stated that CS and CC supplements could ameliorate the adverse effects of FLHS by regulating antioxidant enzymes activities, modulating the hepatic lipid metabolism, and restoring the production performance in laying hens. Hence, adding CS and CC could be an effective way to reduce FLHS in laying hens.

Effect of silymarin on lipid profile and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

This randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of silymarin supplementation on glycemic indices and serum lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. In this open-label randomized clinical trial study, 48 patients with T2DM were eligible to participate for 12 weeks and were divided into two groups randomly: 24 subjects in the intervention (received three 140 mg silymarin capsules daily and diet plan) and 24 in control (received a diet plan). Fasting blood samples and anthropometric data were collected, and glycemic indices and lipid profiles were determined at baseline and at the end of the study. Out of 60 patients included in the clinical trial, 48 people completed the study. In comparing silymarin and control groups before and after the study, a significant reduction was observed in weight and body mass index. However, after adjustment, no significant difference was seen between the two groups. Furthermore, daily consumption of three capsules of 140 mg silymarin for 12 weeks did not show any significant difference on the level of fasting blood sugar (p = 0.789), HbA1c (p = 0.719), and lipid profile. The findings of the present study show that silymarin did not lead to changes in the level of glycemic index and lipid profile in patients with T2DM.

Coffee consumption might be associated with lower potential risk and severity of metabolic syndrome: national health and nutrition examination survey 2003-2018

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clinical syndrome characterized by multiple metabolic disorders and is a serious global health problem. The coffee effect, acting as one of the most prevalent beverages on metabolic syndrome, is debatable.

METHODS

We included patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2018 and used a comprehensive evaluation called the MetS z-score to assess the severity of metabolic syndrome. The relationship between coffee, decaffeinated coffee, tea, and MetS z-scores was explored using a weighted linear regression. We also divided the participants into metabolic and non-metabolic syndrome groups according to the NCEP/ATP III criteria for the subgroup analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 14,504 participants were included in this study. The results demonstrated that drinking more than three cups of coffee daily was significantly linked to lower MetS z-scores (p < 0.001). Daily coffee consumption was also associated with lower BMI (p = 0.02), systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001), Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (p < 0.001), and triglycerides (p < 0.001), while it was positively correlated with HDL-C (p = 0.001). Participants who consumed more than three cups of coffee daily had a lower MetS z-score in the MetS (p < 0.001) and non-MetS (p = 0.04) groups.

CONCLUSION

This research indicates that coffee consumption is linked to MetS severity. However, decaffeinated coffee and tea intake were unrelated to MetS severity.

Korean Red Ginseng Improves Oxidative Stress-Induced Hepatic Insulin Resistance via Enhancing Mitophagy

This study explored the potential of saponins from Korean Red Ginseng to target the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy pathway, aiming to enhance insulin sensitivity in hepatocytes-a key factor in metabolic disorders like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes. Results from both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed increased expression of PINK1 and Parkin, activating mitophagy and reducing oxidative stress through reduction in mitochondrial and total reactive oxygen species. Additionally, improvements in insulin signaling were observed, including the upregulation of phosphorylated IRS and AKT, and downregulation of gluconeogenic enzymes, underscoring the saponins' efficacy in boosting insulin sensitivity. The findings highlighted Korean Red Ginseng-derived saponins as potential treatments for insulin resistance and related metabolic conditions.

Effect of melatonin supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress and hormonal profile in PCOS patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

To investigate whether melatonin supplementation can enhance cardiometabolic risk factors, reduce oxidative stress, and improve hormonal and pregnancy-related factors in patients with PCOS.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for articles published in English from inception to March 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of melatonin for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We performed a meta-analysis using a random-effects model and calculated the standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Six studies met the inclusion criteria. The result of meta-analysis indicated that melatonin intake significantly increase TAC levels (SMD: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.46, 1.28, I2 = 00.00%) and has no effect on FBS, insulin, HOMA-IR, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, MDA, hs-CRP, mFG, SHBG, total testosterone, and pregnancy rate in patients with PCOS compare to controls. The included trials did not report any adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Melatonin is a potential antioxidant that may prevent damage from oxidative stress in patients with PCOS. However, the clear effect of melatonin supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors, hormonal outcomes, and pregnancy-related outcomes needs to be evaluated further in large populations and long-term RCTs.

Aging and "Age-Related" Diseases - What Is the Relation?

The study explores the intricate relationship between aging and the development of noncommunicable diseases [NCDs], focusing on whether these diseases are inevitable consequences of aging or primarily driven by lifestyle factors. By examining epidemiological data, particularly from hunter-gatherer societies, the study highlights that many NCDs prevalent in modern populations are rare in these societies, suggesting a significant influence of lifestyle choices. It delves into the mechanisms through which poor diet, smoking, and other lifestyle factors contribute to systemic physiological imbalances, characterized by oxidative stress, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, and dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and the immune system. The interplay between this pattern and individual factors such as genetic susceptibility, biological variability, epigenetic changes and the microbiome is proposed to play a crucial role in the development of a range of age-related NCDs. Modified biomolecules such as oxysterols and advanced glycation end products also contribute to their development. Specific diseases such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma and osteoarthritis are analyzed to illustrate these mechanisms. The study concludes that while aging contributes to the risk of NCDs, lifestyle factors play a crucial role, offering potential avenues for prevention and intervention through healthier living practices. One possible approach could be to try to restore the physiological balance, e.g. through dietary measures [e.g. Mediterranean diet, Okinawan diet or Paleolithic diet] in conjunction with [a combination of] pharmacological interventions and other lifestyle changes.

Effects of Statin and Annatto-extracted Tocotrienol Supplementation on Glucose Homeostasis, Bone Microstructure, and Gut Microbiota Composition in Obese Mice

BACKGROUND/AIM

This study examined the effects of tocotrienols (TT) in conjunction with statin on glucose homeostasis, bone microstructure, gut microbiome, and systemic and liver inflammatory markers in obese C57BL/6J mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and assigned into four groups in a 2 (no statin vs. 120 mg statin/kg diet)×2 (no TT vs. 400 mg TT/kg diet) factorial design for 14 weeks.

RESULTS

Statin and TT improved glucose tolerance only when each was given alone, and only statin supplementation decreased insulin resistance. Consistently, only statin supplementation decreased serum insulin levels and HOMA-IR. Pancreatic insulin was also increased with statin treatment. Statin and TT, alone or in combination, reduced the levels of serum IL-6, but only TT attenuated the increased serum leptin levels induced by a HFD. Statin supplementation increased bone area/total area and connectivity density at LV-4, while TT supplementation increased bone area/total area and trabecular number, but decreased trabecular separation at the distal femur. Statin supplementation, but not TT, reduced hepatic inflammatory cytokine gene expression. Neither TT supplementation nor statin supplementation statistically altered microbiome species evenness or richness. However, they altered the relative abundance of certain microbiome species. Most notably, both TT and statin supplementation increased the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae UCG-006.

CONCLUSION

TT and statin collectively benefit bone microstructure, glucose homeostasis, and microbial ecology in obese mice. Such changes may be, in part, associated with suppression of inflammation in the host.

The underlying causes, treatment options of gut microbiota and food habits in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a narrative review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a long-lasting endocrine disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia, which is often triggered by an entire or relative inadequacy of insulin production or insulin resistance. As a result of resistance to insulin (IR) and an overall lack of insulin in the body, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic illness that is characterized by hyperglycaemia. Notably, the occurrence of vascular complications of diabetes and the advancement of IR in T2DM are accompanied by dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Due to the difficulties in managing the disease and the dangers of multiple accompanying complications, diabetes is a chronic, progressive immune-mediated condition that plays a significant clinical and health burden on patients. The frequency and incidence of diabetes among young people have been rising worldwide. The relationship between the gut microbiota composition and the physio-pathological characteristics of T2DM proposes a novel way to monitor the condition and enhance the effectiveness of therapies. Our knowledge of the microbiota of the gut and how it affects health and illness has changed over the last 20 years. Species of the genus Eubacterium, which make up a significant portion of the core animal gut microbiome, are some of the recently discovered 'generation' of possibly helpful bacteria. In this article, we have focused on pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches towards T2DM, with a special reference to gut bacteria from ancient times to the present day.

Natural Products and Diabetes: (-)-Epicatechin and Mechanisms Involved in the Regulation of Insulin Sensitivity

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease that occurs when cells do not respond normally to insulin, a condition called insulin resistance, which leads to high blood glucose levels. Although it can be treated pharmacologically, dietary habits beyond carbohydrate restriction can be highly relevant in the management of T2D. Emerging evidence supports the possibility that natural products (NPs) could contribute to managing blood glucose or counteract the undesirable effects of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. This chapter summarizes the relevant preclinical evidence involving the flavonoid (-)-epicatechin (EC) in the optimization of glucose homeostasis, reducing insulin resistance and/or diabetes-associated disorders. Major effects of EC are observed on (i) intestinal functions, including digestive enzymes, glucose transporters, microbiota, and intestinal permeability, and (ii) redox homeostasis, including oxidative stress and inflammation. There is still a need for further clinical studies to confirm the in vitro and rodent data, allowing recommendations for EC, particularly in prediabetic and T2D patients. The collection of similar data and the lack of clinical evidence for EC is also applicable to other NPs.

Genetic risk score for insulin resistance based on gene variants associated to amino acid metabolism in young adults

Circulating concentration of arginine, alanine, aspartate, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, proline, tyrosine, taurine and valine are increased in subjects with insulin resistance, which could in part be attributed to the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within genes associated with amino acid metabolism. Thus, the aim of this work was to develop a Genetic Risk Score (GRS) for insulin resistance in young adults based on SNPs present in genes related to amino acid metabolism. We performed a cross-sectional study that included 452 subjects over 18 years of age. Anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters were assessed including measurement of serum amino acids by high performance liquid chromatography. Eighteen SNPs were genotyped by allelic discrimination. Of these, ten were found to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and only four were used to construct the GRS through multiple linear regression modeling. The GRS was calculated using the number of risk alleles of the SNPs in HGD, PRODH, DLD and SLC7A9 genes. Subjects with high GRS (≥ 0.836) had higher levels of glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment- insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol and triglycerides, and lower levels of arginine than subjects with low GRS (p < 0.05). The application of a GRS based on variants within genes associated to amino acid metabolism may be useful for the early identification of subjects at increased risk of insulin resistance.

Emerging and multifaceted potential contributions of polyphenols in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is recognized as a serious public health concern with a considerable impact on human life, long-term health expenditures, and substantial health losses. In this context, the use of dietary polyphenols to prevent and manage T2DM is widely documented. These dietary compounds exert their beneficial effects through several actions, including the protection of pancreatic islet β-cell, the antioxidant capacities of these molecules, their effects on insulin secretion and actions, the regulation of intestinal microbiota, and their contribution to ameliorate diabetic complications, particularly those of vascular origin. In the present review, we intend to highlight these multifaceted actions and the molecular mechanisms by which these plant-derived secondary metabolites exert their beneficial effects on type 2 diabetes patients.

Melatonin Use during Pregnancy and Lactation Complicated by Oxidative Stress: Focus on Offspring's Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health in Animal Models

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome has emerged as a major global public health concern, posing a substantial threat to human health. Early-life exposure to oxidative stress may heighten vulnerability to the developmental programming of adult diseases, encompassing various aspects of CKM syndrome. Conversely, the initiation of adverse programming processes can potentially be thwarted through early-life antioxidant interventions. Melatonin, originally recognized for its antioxidant properties, is an endogenous hormone with diverse biological functions. While melatonin has demonstrated benefits in addressing disorders linked to oxidative stress, there has been comparatively less focus on investigating its reprogramming effects on CKM syndrome. This review consolidates the current knowledge on the role of oxidative stress during pregnancy and lactation in inducing CKM traits in offspring, emphasizing the underlying mechanisms. The multifaceted role of melatonin in regulating oxidative stress, mediating fetal programming, and preventing adverse outcomes in offspring positions it as a promising reprogramming strategy. Currently, there is a lack of sufficient information in humans, and the available evidence primarily originates from animal studies. This opens up new avenues for novel preventive intervention in CKM syndrome.

NADPH Oxidase 3: Beyond the Inner Ear

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were formerly known as mere byproducts of metabolism with damaging effects on cellular structures. The discovery and description of NADPH oxidases (Nox) as a whole enzyme family that only produce this harmful group of molecules was surprising. After intensive research, seven Nox isoforms were discovered, described and extensively studied. Among them, the NADPH oxidase 3 is the perhaps most underrated Nox isoform, since it was firstly discovered in the inner ear. This stigma of Nox3 as "being only expressed in the inner ear" was also used by me several times. Therefore, the question arose whether this sentence is still valid or even usable. To this end, this review solely focuses on Nox3 and summarizes its discovery, the structural components, the activating and regulating factors, the expression in cells, tissues and organs, as well as the beneficial and detrimental effects of Nox3-mediated ROS production on body functions. Furthermore, the involvement of Nox3-derived ROS in diseases progression and, accordingly, as a potential target for disease treatment, will be discussed.

Antagonizing Effects of Chromium Against Iron-Decreased Glucose Uptake by Regulating ROS-Mediated PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 Signaling Pathway in C2C12

To investigate the effect of chromium and iron on glucose metabolism via the PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathway. Skeletal muscle gene microarray data in T2DM (GSE7014) was selected using Gene Expression Omnibus database. Element-gene interaction datasets of chromium and iron were extracted from comparative toxicogenomics database (CTD). Gene ontology (GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed using DAVID online tool. Cell viability, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and protein expression level were measured in C2C12 cells. The bioinformatics research indicated that PI3K/Akt signaling pathway participated in the effects of chromium and iron associated with T2DM. Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake level was significantly higher in chromium picolinate (Cr group) and lower in ammonium iron citrate (FA group) than that for the control group (P < 0.05); chromium picolinate + ammonium iron citrate (Cr + FA group) glucose uptake level was higher than that for the FA group (P < 0.05). Intracellular ROS level was significantly higher in the FAC group than that for the control group (P < 0.05), and that for the Cr + FA group was lower than that for the FA group (P < 0.05). p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and GLUT4 levels were significantly lower in the FA group than that for the control group (P < 0.05), and the Cr + FA group had higher levels than the FA group (P < 0.05). Chromium might have a protective effect on iron-induced glucose metabolism abnormalities through the ROS-mediated PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathway.

Combination therapy of metformin and morin attenuates insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress in skeletal muscle of high-fat diet-fed mice

Lipid accumulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress are the most important causes of muscle insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the single and combined treatment effects of metformin (MET) and morin (MOR) on lipid accumulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skeletal muscle of mice fed a high-fat diet. The mice were supplemented with MET (230 mg/kg diet), MOR (100 mg/kg diet), and MET + MOR for 9 weeks. Our results revealed that single treatment with MET or MOR, and with a stronger effect of MET + MOR combined treatment, reduced body weight gain, improved glucose intolerance and enhanced Akt phosphorylation in the muscle tissue. In addition, plasma and muscle triglyceride levels were decreased after treatment with MET and MOR. The expression of genes involved in macrophage infiltration and polarization and pro-inflammatory cytokines showed that MET + MOR combined treatment, significantly reduced inflammation in the muscle. Furthermore, combined treatment of MET + MOR with greater efficacy than the single treatment improved several oxidative stress markers in the muscle. Importantly, combined treatment of MET and MOR could increase the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, the master regulator of the antioxidant response. These findings suggest that combination of MET with MOR might ameliorate insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skeletal muscle of mice fed high-fat diet.

The Role of Glutathione and Its Precursors in Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major worldwide health crisis affecting about 6.2% of the world's population. Alarmingly, about one in five children in the USA have prediabetes. Glutathione (GSH) and its precursors play a promising role in the prevention and management of type T2D. Oxidative stress (OxS) is a probable factor in both T2D initiation and progression. GSH is the major cytosolic water-soluble chemical antioxidant and emerging evidence supports its role in improving T2D outcomes. Dietary supplementation with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and/or glycine (GLY), which are GSH precursors, has also been studied for possible beneficial effects on T2D. This review will focus on the underlying pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms linking GSH and its precursors with T2D and OxS. In addition to their traditional antioxidant roles, the in vivo effects of GSH/NAC/GLY supplements will be evaluated for their potential abilities to modulate the complex pro-oxidant pathophysiological factors (e.g., hyperglycemia) driving T2D progression. Positive feedback loops that amplify OxS over long time intervals are likely to result in irreversible T2D micro- and macro-vascular damage. Most clinical studies with GSH/NAC/GLY have focused on adults or the elderly. Future research with pediatric populations should be a high priority since early intervention is critical.

Oxidative balance score was negatively associated with the risk of metabolic syndrome, metabolic syndrome severity, and all-cause mortality of patients with metabolic syndrome

Background

The oxidative balance score (OBS), an encompassing scoring mechanism for assessing oxidative stress, is formulated based on nutritional and lifestyle components. The emergence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is intricately linked to oxidative stress. Nonetheless, the correlation between OBS and MetS displays variability within distinct cohorts.

Objective

We worked on the relationships between OBS and the risk of MetS, MetS severity, and all-cause mortality of MetS patients.

Methods

A total of 11,171 adult participants were collected from the U.S. National Health Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2018. Employing survey-weighted logistic models, we evaluated the relationship between OBS and MetS risk. Furthermore, survey-weighted linear models were utilized to investigate the connection between OBS and MetS severity. Among the participants, 3,621 individuals had their survival status recorded, allowing us to employ Cox proportional hazards regression models in order to ascertain the association between OBS and the all-cause mortality within the subset of individuals with MetS. The OBS (where a higher OBS signified an increased prevalence of anti- or pro-oxidant exposures) weighed the 20 factors, while the MetS severity score weighed the five factors.

Results

After multivariable adjustment, individuals with elevated OBS were found to exhibit a decreased susceptibility to MetS [odds ratio (OR) 0.95; 95% CI 0.94-0.96]. The adjusted OR was 0.42 (95% CI 0.33-0.53) for MetS risk in the fourth OBS quartile compared with those in the first OBS quartile (P for trend < 0.001). A one-unit increase in OBS was linked to a 3% reduction in MetS severity score by 3% (mean difference, -0.03; 95% CI, -0.04 to -0.03). Moreover, increased OBS correlated with decreased hazard of all-cause mortality risk among MetS subjects (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.93-0.98). These associations retained their strength even subsequent to the introduction of sensitivity analyses. There existed a statistically significant negative correlation between diet/lifestyle OBS and both MetS risk as well as MetS severity.

Conclusions

An inverse correlation was observed between OBS and the susceptibility to MetS, MetS severity, and all-cause mortality of MetS patients. Health outcomes for MetS patients were positively related to antioxidant diets and lifestyles.

PP4R1 accelerates the malignant progression of NSCLC via up-regulating HSPA6 expression and HSPA6-mediated ER stress

Protein phosphatase 4 (PP4) plays an indispensable regulatory part in the development and malignant progression of multifarious tumors. Nevertheless, the function of protein phosphatase 4 regulatory subunit 1 (PP4R1), a vital regulatory subunit of PP4, in tumors especially in lung cancer remains blurred. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the function and mechanism of PP4R1 in the development of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We analyzed the clinical correlation of PP4R1 based on the TCGA database by UALCAN (https://ualcan.path.uab.edu/index.html) and found that hyper-expression of PP4R1 mRNA was related to the severe prognosis in NSCLC. The subsequent cellular experiments confirmed that the proliferation, colony growth, migration as well as invasion of H1299 and HCC827 were significantly enhanced after PP4R1 overexpression treatment in vitro. Results from animal experiments pointed out that tumors exhibited stronger growth and lung metastatic capacities due to the overexpression of PP4R1. The bioinformatics analysis, including RNA-seq, showed us that PP4R1 significantly promoted the expression of several HSP70 family member genes, with a particularly marked increase in HSPA6, and the enrichment analyses illustrated that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in those pathways related to protein folding. More importantly, the overexpression of HSPA6 resulted in the same malignant progression of NSCLC as PP4R1 overexpression, and both concomitant with the activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In aggregate, PP4R1 contributed to the malignant progression of NSCLC via up-regulating HSPA6 expression and then activating ER stress.

NADPH Dynamics: Linking Insulin Resistance and β-Cells Ferroptosis in Diabetes Mellitus

This review offers an in-depth exploration of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) in metabolic health. It delves into how NADPH affects insulin secretion, influences insulin resistance, and plays a role in ferroptosis. NADPH, a critical cofactor in cellular antioxidant systems and lipid synthesis, plays a central role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. In adipocytes and skeletal muscle, NADPH influences the pathophysiology of insulin resistance, a hallmark of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. The review explores the mechanisms by which NADPH contributes to or mitigates insulin resistance, including its role in lipid and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. Parallelly, the paper investigates the dual nature of NADPH in the context of pancreatic β-cell health, particularly in its relation to ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of programmed cell death. While NADPH's antioxidative properties are crucial for preventing oxidative damage in β-cells, its involvement in lipid metabolism can potentiate ferroptotic pathways under certain pathological conditions. This complex relationship underscores the delicate balance of NADPH homeostasis in pancreatic health and diabetes pathogenesis. By integrating findings from recent studies, this review aims to illuminate the nuanced roles of NADPH in different tissues and its potential as a therapeutic target. Understanding these dynamics offers vital insights into the development of more effective strategies for managing insulin resistance and preserving pancreatic β-cell function, thereby advancing the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Exercise and Caloric Restriction Exert Different Benefits on Skeletal Muscle Metabolism in Aging Condition

Exercise and caloric restriction improve skeletal muscle metabolism. However, the benefits of exercise and caloric restriction on skeletal muscle metabolism in aging have never been compared. Seven-week-old male Wistar rats (n = 24) were divided into 4 groups (n = 6 per group) to receive either normal saline solution for 28 weeks, 150 mg/kg/day of D-galactose for 28 weeks to induce premature aging, 150 mg/kg/day of D-galactose for 28 weeks plus exercise for 16 weeks (week 13-28), or 150 mg/kg/day of D-galactose for 28 weeks plus 30% caloric restriction for 16 weeks (week 13-28). The 17-month-old rats (n = 6) were also injected with normal saline solution for 28 weeks as the naturally aged controls. At the end of week 28, total walking distance and fatty acid and carbohydrate oxidation during physical activity were determined. Then, all rats were euthanized for the collection of blood and tibialis anterior muscle. The results showed that D-galactose successfully mimicked the natural aging of skeletal muscle. Exercise and caloric restriction equally improved carbohydrate oxidation during physical activity and myogenesis. However, exercise was superior to caloric restriction in terms of improving fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation. Interestingly, caloric restriction decreased oxidative stress, whereas exercise increased oxidative stress of skeletal muscle. All of these findings indicated that the benefits of exercise and caloric restriction on skeletal muscle metabolism during aging were different, and therefore the combination of exercise and caloric restriction might provide greater efficacy in ameliorating skeletal muscle aging.

Synergistic effects of punicic acid and alpha lipoic acid ameliorate inflammatory and metabolic genes expression in C2C12 myoblast cells under oxidative stress condition

Inflammation is a reaction of the immune system to infection and injury; in fact, it positioned at the center of metabolic disorders, particularly obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Thus play a major role not only in their development, but also exerts as a crucial linking factor among those diseases. In this regard, one of the strategies for tackling this problem is application of antioxidants to treat such diseases. The present study was performed to evaluate the synergistic effects of punicic acid (PUA) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as antioxidants and radical scavenging reagents on the expression of some inflammatory and metabolism-related genes under oxidative stress in the muscle cells. The experimental treatments consisted of a range of 20, 40, 80, 160, and 320 µM of PUA, and 5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µM of ALA with a 200 µM concentration of H2 O2 as an oxidative stress inducer. Accordingly, fatty acid treatments were applied for 24 h, and H2 O2 was treated for 1 h. Our results indicated that the simultaneous treatment of PUA and ALA at optimal concentrations (80 and 50 µM, respectively) decreased the expression of inflammation genes and increased the expression of regulatory genes (Pparγ, Pgc-1α) related to metabolism (p < .05). Unexpectedly, H2 O2 treatment increased the Fndc5 expression (p < .05). Maximal upregulation of Pparγ, Pgc-1α were obtained when fatty acids combination (PUA and ALA) were used in the culture of H2 O2 treated cells (p < .05). Therefore, our findings suggest that the simultaneous use of PUA and ALA fatty acids could reduce oxidative stress, and the expression of inflammatory genes, thereby improving the cell metabolism.

HOMA-IR is positively correlated with biological age and advanced aging in the US adult population

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance (IR) had been reported to be associated with age; however, few studies have explored the association between IR and biological age (BA). The HOMA-IR value is a useful indicator of the extent of IR. This cross-sectional study is to explore the relationship between HOMA-IR and BA/advanced aging in the US population.

METHODS

This study is a cross-sectional analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data. The survey comprised 12,266 people from the NHANES, and their full HOMA-IR data as well as BA data were extracted. Four multiple linear regressions were performed to analyze the association between HOMA-IR and BA, and four multiple logistic regression models were performed to analyze the association between HOMA-IR and advanced aging. In addition, trend tests and stratified analysis were performed and smoothed fitted curves were plotted to test the robustness of the results.

RESULTS

HOMA-IR was positively correlated with BA [β: 0.51 (0.39, 0.63)], and it was the same to advanced aging [OR: 1.05 (1.02, 1.07)], and both showed a monotonically increasing trend. The trend tests showed that the results were stable (all P for trend < 0.0001). The smoothed fitted curves showed that there were non-linear relationships between HOMA-IR and BA/advanced aging. And the stratified analysis indicated that the relationship between HOMA-IR and BA/advanced aging remained robust in all subgroups.

CONCLUSION

The study suggested that HOMA-IR is positively correlated with BA and advanced aging in the US adult population, with a monotonic upward trend. This is a new finding to reveal the relationship between HOMA-IR and age from new standpoint of BA rather than chronological age (CA). And it may contribute to a better understanding of human health aging and may aid future research in this field.

Disturbed hemodynamics and oxidative stress interaction in endothelial dysfunction and AAA progression: Focus on Nrf2 pathway

Hemodynamic shear stress is one of the major factors that are involved in the pathogenesis of many cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), through its modulatory effect on the endothelial cell's redox homeostasis and mechanosensitive gene expression. Among important mechanisms, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress activation, and the subsequent endothelial dysfunction are attributed to disturbed blood flow and low shear stress in the vascular curvature and bifurcations which are considered atheroprone regions and aneurysm occurrence spots. Many pathways were shown to be involved in AAA progression. Of particular interest from recent findings is, the (Nrf2)/Keap-1 pathway, where Nrf2 is a transcription factor that has antioxidant properties and is strongly associated with several CVDs, yet, the exact mechanism by which Nrf2 alleviates CVDs still to be elucidated. Nrf2 expression is closely affected by shear stress and was shown to participate in AAA. In the current review paper, we discussed the link between disturbed hemodynamics and its effect on Nrf2 as a mechanosensitive gene and its role in the development of endothelial dysfunction which is linked to the progression of AAA.

FTY-720 alleviates diabetes-induced liver injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation

We aimed to investigate the protective effect of FTY-720 on liver injury and explore its potential mechanism in diabetic mice. The diabetic mouse model was induced with streptozotocin and FTY-720 was administered for 12 weeks. We assayed biocharacters and liver function and used histopathology staining to evaluate the protective effects of FTY-720 against diabetic liver injury. Levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver were observed. mRNA and protein levels of essential enzymes for glucose metabolism were quantified in the liver and the protein expression of TLR4, HIF1α and NF-κB was determined. In vivo results revealed that FTY-720 significantly lowered blood glucose and lipids and improved liver function and alleviated liver fibrosis in diabetic mice. FTY-720 reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, with the increased catalase activity and reduced levels of malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β, and MCP1. Furthermore, FTY-720 modulated glucose metabolism in liver and elevated the ATP production, showing the promotion of glycogenesis and glycolysis and inhibition of gluconeogenesis. Moreover, FTY-720 inhibited the expression of TLR4 and HIF1α, contributing to restoration of liver function. In conclusion, FTY-720 ameliorates diabetes-induced liver injury and improves glucose homeostasis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation and may be a promise drug for treatment of liver disease.

Precise Spatiotemporal Identification of Mitochondrial H2S Fluctuations through Exploiting an On-Demand Photoactivated Probe

Various signal molecules participate in complex biological processes in mitochondria. However, most currently available probes have problems in elucidating the functions of these active species in mitochondria due to the inability to light up these probes exclusively at the desired mitochondrial location, thereby compromising the specificity and accuracy. In this study, we present an on-demand photoactivation approach to the molecular design of optimized probes for precise spatiotemporal identification of mitochondrial H2S fluctuations. The designed probe with native yellow fluorescence can monitor the process into mitochondria but maintains nonfluorescent response to H2S during cellular delivery, providing the accurate timing of accumulation in mitochondria. On-demand photoactivation exclusively at the desired mitochondrial location affords a significant aggregation-enhanced and emissive response to H2S with lighting up red fluorescence at 690 nm, which is the only way to get such an emissive phenomenon and greatly improves the specificity and accuracy of targeting mitochondrial H2S. By using this photocontrolled fluorescence responsiveness to H2S, precise spatiotemporal identification of mitochondrial H2S fluctuations is successfully performed. Our work could facilitate advances toward interrogating the physiological and pathological consequences of mitochondrial H2S in various biological events.

Preventing Adipogenesis and Preserving Mitochondria and GLUT-4 Functions by Extracts and Isolated Compounds of Australian Acacia saligna

Acacia saligna's secondary metabolites show promise in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus and its related conditions. We previously discovered that methanolic extracts, isolated flavonoids, and cyclitols effectively preserve mitochondria in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In this current work, quantification of lipid droplet levels with Oil Red O assay showed a noticeable decrease in lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. Methanolic leaf and bark extracts and isolated compounds, (-)-epicatechin 6 and myricitrin 8, reduced cellular lipid levels by 21.15% to 25.28%, respectively. mRNA levels of key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, such as adiponectin, PGC-1α, and mtTFA, were increased. Methanolic flower extract (FL-MeOH) and its chemical components, naringenin 1 and D-(+)-pinitol 5a, increased these gene levels from 10% to 29% at the higher dose. Our study found that FL-MeOH slightly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, attributed to two phytochemicals, naringenin-7-O-α-L-arabinofuranoside 2 and D-(+)-pinitol 5a. Western blot analysis also showed that adipocytes treated with MeOH extracts had higher GLUT-4 expression levels than untreated adipocytes. Overall, A. saligna extracts and their isolated compounds demonstrated anti-lipogenesis activity during 3T3-L1 cell differentiation, modulation of transcriptional levels of adiponectin, PGC-1α, and mtTFA, reducing TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA levels, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, and enhancing GLUT-4 expression.

Exposure to multiple neonicotinoid insecticides, oxidative stress, and gestational diabetes mellitus: Association and potential mediation analyses

As the most extensively used insecticides worldwide, neonicotinoid insecticides (NNIs) have received a growing global concern over their adverse health effects. This study aimed to assess the associations of urinary concentrations of NNIs in early pregnancy with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and the mediation roles of oxidative DNA damage, RNA damage, and lipid peroxidation in the associations. With a prospective nested case-control study, 519 GDM cases and 519 controls were matched on the infant's sex and maternal age. Urinary biomarkers of NNIs exposure and oxidative stress were measured in early pregnancy. We estimated the associations of single and the mixture of NNIs and their metabolites with GDM by conditional logistic regression and quantile g-computation models, respectively. The mediating roles of oxidative stress were evaluated by the structural equation model. The odds of GDM significantly increased by 15 %, 18 %, 26 %, 42 %, 49 %, and 13 % in each unit increment of ln-transformed concentrations of urinary imidacloprid (IMI), imidacloprid-olefin (IMI-olefin), desnitro-imidacloprid (DN-IMI), thiamethoxam (THM), clothianidin, and desmethyl-clothianidin, respectively. Exposure to the mixture of NNIs was associated with increased odds of GDM (adjusted OR: 1.76; 95 %CI: 1.45, 2.13). Advanced maternal age enhanced the associations of 5-hydroxy-IMI, DN-IMI, and IMI-olefin with GDM (P < 0.05), and being overweight/obese before pregnancy strengthened the effects of IMI, IMI-olefin, and THM on GDM (P < 0.05). In the association of NNIs exposure and GDM, the proportions mediated by oxidative DNA damage, RNA damage, and overall oxidative stress were 9.8 %, 11.8 %, and 14.5 %, respectively (P < 0.05). Exposure to individual NNIs and a mixture of NNIs were associated with GDM, and maternal age and pre-pregnancy BMI may modify the association. The possible mechanism underlying the association between NNIs and GDM may involve oxidative damage to nucleic acids.

MitoNEET prevents iron overload-induced insulin resistance in H9c2 cells through regulation of mitochondrial iron

Iron overload (IO) induces insulin resistance in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells. Here, we used H9c2 cells overexpressing MitoNEET to examine the potential for protection against iron accumulation in the mitochondria and subsequent insulin resistance. In control H9c2 cells, IO was observed to increase mitochondrial iron content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial fission, and reduced insulin-stimulated Akt and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. IO did not significantly affect mitophagy, or mitochondrial content, however, an increase in peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC1α) protein expression, a key regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, was observed. MitoNEET overexpression was able to attenuate the effects of IO on mitochondrial iron content, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial fission, and insulin signaling. MitoNEET overexpression also upregulated levels of PGC1α protein. The mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, Skq1, prevented IO-induced ROS production and insulin resistance in control cells, indicating mitochondrial ROS plays a causal role in the onset of insulin resistance. The selective mitochondrial fission inhibitor, Mdivi-1, prevented IO-induced mitochondrial fission, however, it did not alleviate IO-induced insulin resistance. Collectively, IO causes insulin resistance in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts and this can be averted by reduction of mitochondrial iron accumulation and ROS production by overexpression of the MitoNEET protein.

Salidroside alleviates diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance by activating Nrf2/ARE pathway and enhancing the thermogenesis of adipose tissues

Recent reports suggest that salidroside protects cardiomyocytes from oxidative injury and stimulates glucose uptake by skeletal muscle cells. Despite these findings, the therapeutic potential of salidroside in the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance remains uncertain and requires further investigation. In the present study, the treatment effect of salidroside on the onset and development of the obese phenotype and insulin resistance as well as the underlying mechanisms was investigated using long-term high-fat diet-induced obese mice supplemented with salidroside. We used biochemical kits to determine serum biochemical parameters (including triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting glucose, and insulin). The results show that salidroside-supplemented animals showed better glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, decreased blood lipids, and weight gain (p < .05). Protein expression of p-Nrf2 and Nrf2 was analyzed by western blotting, and the mRNA levels of thermogenic-related genes (Ucp1, Pgc1a, Prdm16, and Cidea) were detected by quantitative RT-PCR. The results show an improvement in lipid peroxidation and Nrf2/ARE signaling, as well as an increased expression of the Ucp1, Pgc1a, Prdm16, and Cidea (p < .05). Our evidence suggests that salidroside alleviates diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance potentially by activating Nrf2/ARE pathway and enhancing the thermogenesis of adipose tissues. This induction represents a potential technique for the management of comorbidities related to obesity and its prevention.

Role of Oxidative Stress on Insulin Resistance in Diet-Induced Obesity Mice

Insulin resistance is the link between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The molecular mechanism by which obese individuals develop insulin resistance has not yet been fully elucidated; however, inconclusive and contradictory studies have shown that oxidative stress may be involved in the process. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of reactive species on the mechanism of insulin resistance in diet-induced obese mice. Obese insulin-resistant mice were treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC; 50 mg/kg per day, for 15 days) by means of oral gavage. Twenty-four hours after the last NAC administration, the animals were euthanized and their tissues were extracted for biochemical and molecular analyses. NAC supplementation induced improved insulin resistance and fasting glycemia, without modifications in food intake, body weight, and adiposity. Obese mice showed increased dichlorofluorescein (DCF) oxidation, reduced catalase (CAT) activity, and reduced glutathione levels (GSH). However, treatment with NAC increased GSH and CAT activity and reduced DCF oxidation. The gastrocnemius muscle of obese mice showed an increase in nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP1B) levels, as well as c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation compared to the control group; however, NAC treatment reversed these changes. Considering the molecules involved in insulin signaling, there was a reduction in insulin receptor substrate (IRS) and protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation. However, NAC administration increased IRS and Akt phosphorylation and IRS/PI3k (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) association. The results demonstrated that oxidative stress-associated obesity could be a mechanism involved in insulin resistance, at least in this animal model.

Panax notoginseng alleviates oxidative stress through miRNA regulations based on systems biology approach

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine Sanqi (SQ), the dried root or stem of Panax notoginseng (PNS), has been reported to have anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects and is usually administered as a decoction for Chinese medicine. Alternative to utilizing PNS pure compound for treatment, we are motivated to propose an unconventional scheme to investigate the functions of PNS mixture. However, studies providing a detailed overview of the transcriptomics-based signaling network in response to PNS are seldom available.

METHODS

To explore the reasoning of PNS in treating metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, we implemented a systems biology-based approach with RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and miRNA sequencing data to elucidate key pathways, genes and miRNAs involved.

RESULTS

Functional enrichment analysis revealed PNS up-regulating oxidative stress-related pathways and down-regulating insulin and fatty acid metabolism. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1), heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1) and glutamate cysteine ligase (GCLc) mRNA and protein levels, as well as related miRNA levels, were measured in PNS treated rat pancreatic β cells (INS-1). PNS treatment up-regulated Hmox1, SOD1 and GCLc expression while down-regulating miR-24-3p and miR-139-5p to suppress oxidative stress. Furthermore, we verified the novel interactions between miR-139-5p and miR-24-3p with GCLc and SOD1.

CONCLUSION

This work has demonstrated the mechanism of how PNS regulates cellular molecules in metabolic disorders. Therefore, combining omics data with a systems biology strategy could be a practical means to explore the potential function and molecular mechanisms of Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of metabolic disorders.

Urinary metabolites of multiple volatile organic compounds, oxidative stress biomarkers, and gestational diabetes mellitus: Association analyses

Volatile organic compounds are ubiquitous in the environment, which may cause various adverse health effects. The objectives of this study were to investigate associations of single and mixture of urinary metabolites of volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk, and examine the possible role of oxidative stress in the associations. This nested case-control study included 454 GDM cases and 454 healthy controls matched by maternal age and infant sex. Urinary concentrations of twenty-one mVOCs and three oxidative stress biomarkers (including 8-OHdG, 8-OHG, and HNEMA), in early pregnancy were measured. Analyses using logistic regression model showed that an interquartile range increase in urinary concentrations of six individual mVOCs (ATCA, BPMA, CEMA, 3HPMA, MU, and TGA) were significantly associated with increased odds of GDM by 19-27%. Weighted quantile sum regression analyses showed that in each quartile increment of the mixture of mVOCs, the odds of GDM increased by 39% (95% CI: 16%, 67%), with 2-aminothiazoline-4-carboxylic acid weighted the most in the associations (weight: 25%). Furthermore, significant associations of the oxidative stress biomarkers with both GDM and certain mVOCs were observed. These results suggested that certain urinary mVOCs (correspondingly, the parent VOCs such as 1-bromopropane, cyanide, and benzene should be concerned as priority ones for regulation and policy making) in early pregnancy were significantly associated with elevated GDM incidence, and the associations were potentially related with oxidative stress biomarkers.

Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions associated with the risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Metabolic syndrome is closely related to obesity. Increased adiposity promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, which are precursors of various complications involving metabolic syndrome components, namely insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. An increasing number of studies confirm the importance of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the etiology of metabolic syndrome. However, few studies have reviewed the mechanisms underlying the role of oxidative stress in contributing to metabolic syndrome. In this review, we highlight mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase mitochondrial dysfunction, protein damage, lipid peroxidation, and impair antioxidant function in metabolic syndrome. Biomarkers of oxidative stress can be used in disease diagnosis and evaluation of severity.

Metabolomic signatures associated with weight gain and psychosis spectrum diagnoses: A pilot study

Psychosis spectrum disorders (PSDs), as well as other severe mental illnesses where psychotic features may be present, like bipolar disorder, are associated with intrinsic metabolic abnormalities. Antipsychotics (APs), the cornerstone of treatment for PSDs, incur additional metabolic adversities including weight gain. Currently, major gaps exist in understanding psychosis illness biomarkers, as well as risk factors and mechanisms for AP-induced weight gain. Metabolomic profiles may identify biomarkers and provide insight into the mechanistic underpinnings of PSDs and antipsychotic-induced weight gain. In this 12-week prospective naturalistic study, we compared serum metabolomic profiles of 25 cases within approximately 1 week of starting an AP to 6 healthy controls at baseline to examine biomarkers of intrinsic metabolic dysfunction in PSDs. In 17 of the case participants with baseline and week 12 samples, we then examined changes in metabolomic profiles over 12 weeks of AP treatment to identify metabolites that may associate with AP-induced weight gain. In the cohort with pre-post data (n = 17), we also compared baseline metabolomes of participants who gained ≥5% baseline body weight to those who gained <5% to identify potential biomarkers of antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Minimally AP-exposed cases were distinguished from controls by six fatty acids when compared at baseline, namely reduced levels of palmitoleic acid, lauric acid, and heneicosylic acid, as well as elevated levels of behenic acid, arachidonic acid, and myristoleic acid (FDR < 0.05). Baseline levels of the fatty acid adrenic acid was increased in 11 individuals who experienced a clinically significant body weight gain (≥5%) following 12 weeks of AP exposure as compared to those who did not (FDR = 0.0408). Fatty acids may represent illness biomarkers of PSDs and early predictors of AP-induced weight gain. The findings may hold important clinical implications for early identification of individuals who could benefit from prevention strategies to reduce future cardiometabolic risk, and may lead to novel, targeted treatments to counteract metabolic dysfunction in PSDs.

Diabetes as one of the long-term COVID-19 complications: from the potential reason of more diabetic patients' susceptibility to COVID-19 to the possible caution of future global diabetes tsunami

According to recent researches, people with diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2) have a higher incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by a SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this regard, COVID-19 may make diabetic patients more sensitive to hyperglycemia by modifying the immunological and inflammatory responses and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) predisposing the patients to severe COVID-19 and potentially lethal results. Actually, in addition to COVID-19, diabetic patients have been demonstrated to have abnormally high levels of inflammatory cytokines, increased virus entrance, and decreased immune response. On the other hand, during the severe stage of COVID-19, the SARS-CoV-2-infected patients have lymphopenia and inflammatory cytokine storms that cause damage to several body organs such as β cells of the pancreas which may make them as future diabetic candidates. In this line, the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which is activated by a number of mediators, plays a substantial part in cytokine storms through various pathways. In this pathway, some polymorphisms also make the individuals more competent to diabetes via infection with SARS-CoV-2. On the other hand, during hospitalization of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, the use of some drugs may unintentionally lead to diabetes in the future via increasing inflammation and stress oxidative. Thus, in this review, we will first explain why diabetic patients are more susceptible to COVID-19. Second, we will warn about a future global diabetes tsunami via the SARS-CoV-2 as one of its long-term complications.

In Vitro α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Effects, Antioxidant Activities, and Lutein Content of Nine Different Cultivars of Marigold Flowers (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are major sources of bioactive compounds. The flowers are used to treat a variety of illnesses and have both antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. However, marigolds exhibit a wide range of genetic variations. Because of this, both the bioactive compounds and biological activities of the plants differ between cultivars. In the present study, nine marigold cultivars grown in Thailand were evaluated for their bioactive compound content, as well as for their antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, using spectrophotometric methods. The results showed that the Sara Orange cultivar possessed the highest total carotenoid content (431.63 mg/100 g). However, Nata 001 (NT1) had the highest amount of total phenolic compounds (161.17 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (20.05 mg QE/g), and lutein (7.83 mg/g), respectively. NT1 exhibited strong activities against the DPPH radical and ABTS radical cation, and had the highest FRAP value as well. Moreover, NT1 demonstrated the most significant (p < 0.05) α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects (IC₅₀ values of 2.57 and 3.12 mg/mL, respectively). The nine marigold cultivars had reasonable correlations between lutein content and the capacity to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. Hence, NT1 may be a good source of lutein; it may also be beneficial in both functional food production and medical applications.

Evaluation of mulberry leaves’ hypoglycemic properties and hypoglycemic mechanisms

The effectiveness of herbal medicine in treating diabetes has grown in recent years, but the precise mechanism by which it does so is still unclear to both medical professionals and diabetics. In traditional Chinese medicine, mulberry leaf is used to treat inflammation, colds, and antiviral illnesses. Mulberry leaves are one of the herbs with many medicinal applications, and as mulberry leaf study grows, there is mounting evidence that these leaves also have potent anti-diabetic properties. The direct role of mulberry leaf as a natural remedy in the treatment of diabetes has been proven in several studies and clinical trials. However, because mulberry leaf is a more potent remedy for diabetes, a deeper understanding of how it works is required. The bioactive compounds flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, polyphenols, volatile oils, sterols, amino acids, and a variety of inorganic trace elements and vitamins, among others, have been found to be abundant in mulberry leaves. Among these compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols have a stronger link to diabetes. Of course, trace minerals and vitamins also contribute to blood sugar regulation. Inhibiting alpha glucosidase activity in the intestine, regulating lipid metabolism in the body, protecting pancreatic -cells, lowering insulin resistance, accelerating glucose uptake by target tissues, and improving oxidative stress levels in the body are some of the main therapeutic properties mentioned above. These mechanisms can effectively regulate blood glucose levels. The therapeutic effects of the bioactive compounds found in mulberry leaves on diabetes mellitus and their associated molecular mechanisms are the main topics of this paper’s overview of the state of the art in mulberry leaf research for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

A Mitochondrial Perspective on Noncommunicable Diseases

Mitochondria are the center of energy metabolism in eukaryotic cells and play a central role in the metabolism of living organisms. Mitochondrial diseases characterized by defects in oxidative phosphorylation are the most common congenital diseases. Meanwhile, mitochondrial dysfunction caused by secondary factors such as non-inherited genetic mutations can affect normal physiological functions of human cells, induce apoptosis, and lead to the development of various diseases. This paper reviewed several major factors and mechanisms that contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction and discussed the development of diseases closely related to mitochondrial dysfunction and drug treatment strategies discovered in recent years.

A Glimpse into Milestones of Insulin Resistance and an Updated Review of Its Management

Insulin is the main metabolic regulator of fuel molecules in the diet, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. It does so by facilitating glucose influx from the circulation into the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal myocytes. The outcome of which is subjected to glycogenesis in skeletal muscle and lipogenesis in adipose tissue, as well as in the liver. Therefore, insulin has an anabolic action while, on the contrary, hypoinsulinemia promotes the reverse process. Protein breakdown in myocytes is also encountered during the late stages of diabetes mellitus. The balance of the blood glucose level in physiological conditions is maintained by virtue of the interactive functions of insulin and glucagon. In insulin resistance (IR), the balance is disturbed because glucose transporters (GLUTs) of cell membranes fail to respond to this peptide hormone, meaning that glucose molecules cannot be internalized into the cells, the consequence of which is hyperglycemia. To develop the full state of diabetes mellitus, IR should be associated with the impairment of insulin release from beta-cells of the pancreas. Periodic screening of individuals of high risk, such as those with obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and pregnant nulliparous women in antenatal control, is vital, as these are important checkpoints to detect cases of insulin resistance. This is pivotal as IR can be reversed, provided it is detected in its early stages, through healthy dietary habits, regular exercise, and the use of hypoglycemic agents. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis, preventive methods, and management of IR in brief.

The interactions between inflammation and insulin resistance: molecular mechanisms in insulin-producing and insulin-dependent tissues

In the modern world the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) significantly increases. In this light the risks of obesity-associated complications also grow up. The crucial linkage between obesity and its metabolic and cardiovascular complications is inflammatory process. The mechanism of this linkage is similar in pancreas and insulin-dependent tissues both on cells, cell-to-cell communication and signaling pathway levels: the catalysts are different lipids (cholesterol, free fatty acids, triglycerides), which are able to activate Toll-like receptors of innate immunity and inflammation. Nextly, IKK- and JNK-dependent cascades activate the secretion of inflammatory cytokines TNFa, IL-1b, IL-6 and others, which act by paracrine and autocrine manner and support inflammation both in local and systemic levels. Thus, insulin-producing and insulin-dependent tissues, which are involved in T2DM pathogenesis, through the inflammatory process integrate in pathogenic and self-maintaining cycle, which leads to the suppression of insulin secretion, pancreatic β-cell failure and the development of insulin-dependent tissues insulin resistance.

Metabolome-wide association study on physical activity

The underlying mechanisms linking physical activity to better health are not fully understood. Here we examined the associations between physical activity and small circulatory molecules, the metabolome, to highlight relevant biological pathways. We examined plasma metabolites associated with self-reported physical activity among 2217 participants from the Airwave Health Monitoring Study. Metabolic profiling was conducted using the mass spectrometry-based Metabolon platform (LC/GC-MS), measuring 828 known metabolites. We replicated our findings in an independent subset of the study (n = 2971) using untargeted LC-MS. Mendelian randomisation was carried out to investigate potential causal associations between physical activity, body mass index, and metabolites. Higher vigorous physical activity was associated (P < 0.05/828 = 6.03 × 10-5) with circulatory levels of 28 metabolites adjusted for age, sex and body mass index. The association was inverse for glutamate and diacylglycerol lipids, and direct for 3-4-hydroxyphenyllactate, phenyl lactate (PLA), alpha-hydroxy isovalerate, tiglylcarnitine, alpha-hydroxyisocaproate, 2-hydroxy-3-methylvalerate, isobutyrylcarnitine, imidazole lactate, methionine sulfone, indole lactate, plasmalogen lipids, pristanate and fumarate. In the replication panel, we found 23 untargeted LC-MS features annotated to the identified metabolites, for which we found nominal associations with the same direction of effect for three features annotated to 1-(1-enyl-palmitoyl)-2-oleoyl-GPC (P-16:0/18:1), 1-(1-enyl-palmitoyl)-2-linoleoyl-GPC (P-16:0/18:2), 1-stearoyl-2-dihomo-linolenoyl-GPC (18:0/20:3n3 or 6). Using Mendelian randomisation, we showed a potential causal relationship between body mass index and three identified metabolites. Circulatory metabolites are associated with physical activity and may play a role in mediating its health effects.

Insights into Insulin Resistance and Calcification in the Myocardium in Type 2 Diabetes: A Coronary Artery Analysis

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is responsible for high incidence of cardiovascular (CV) complications leading to heart failure. Coronary artery region-specific metabolic and structural assessment could provide deeper insight into the extent of the disease and help prevent adverse cardiac events. Therefore, in this study, we aimed at investigating such myocardial dynamics for the first time in insulin-sensitive (mIS) and insulin-resistant (mIR) T2D patients. We targeted global and region-specific variations using insulin sensitivity (IS) and coronary artery calcifications (CACs) as CV risk factor in T2D patients. IS was computed using myocardial segmentation approaches at both baseline and after an hyperglycemic-insulinemic clamp (HEC) on [¹⁸F]FDG-PET images using the standardized uptake value (SUV) (ΔSUV = SUV_HEC - SUV_BASELINE) and calcifications using CT Calcium Scoring. Results suggest that some communicating pathways between response to insulin and calcification are present in the myocardium, whilst differences between coronary arteries were only observed in the mIS cohort. Risk indicators were mostly observed for mIR and highly calcified subjects, which supports previously stated findings that exhibit a distinguished exposure depending on the impairment of response to insulin, while projecting added potential complications due to arterial obstruction. Moreover, a pattern relating calcification and T2D phenotypes was observed suggesting the avoidance of insulin treatment in mIS but its endorsement in mIR subjects. The right coronary artery displayed more ΔSUV, whilst plaque was more present in the circumflex. However, differences between phenotypes, and therefore CV risk, were associated to left descending artery (LAD) translating into higher CACs regarding IR, which could explain why insulin treatment was effective for LAD at the expense of higher likelihood of plaque accumulation. Personalized approaches to assess T2D may lead to more efficient treatments and risk-prevention strategies.

Mitochondrial Modulators: The Defender

Mitochondria are widely considered the "power hub" of the cell because of their pivotal roles in energy metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. However, beyond the production of ATP, which is the major source of chemical energy supply in eukaryotes, mitochondria are also central to calcium homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance, and cell apoptosis. The mitochondria also perform crucial multifaceted roles in biosynthetic pathways, serving as an important source of building blocks for the biosynthesis of fatty acid, cholesterol, amino acid, glucose, and heme. Since mitochondria play multiple vital roles in the cell, it is not surprising that disruption of mitochondrial function has been linked to a myriad of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders. In this review, we discuss the key physiological and pathological functions of mitochondria and present bioactive compounds with protective effects on the mitochondria and their mechanisms of action. We highlight promising compounds and existing difficulties limiting the therapeutic use of these compounds and potential solutions. We also provide insights and perspectives into future research windows on mitochondrial modulators.