The effect of emodin on cytotoxicity, apoptosis and antioxidant capacity in the hepatic cells of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)

The natural anthraquinone dye emodin: Eco/genotoxicological characterization for aquatic organisms

Emodin is an anthraquinone secondary metabolite produced by several species of plants and fungi. Emodin is known for its pharmacological versatility, and, in the textile industry, for its good dyeing properties. However, its use in the textile industry can result in the formation and disposal of large volumes of wastewater. Emodin mutagenicity has been shown in bacteria and in human cells, but little is known about its possible toxic, genotoxic, or mutagenic effects in aquatic organisms. We have evaluated the eco/genotoxicity of emodin to aquatic organisms. Emodin was toxic to Daphnia similis (EC50 = 130 μg L-1) and zebrafish embryos (LC50 = 25 μg L-1). No toxicity was observed for Raphidocelis subcapitata, Ceriodaphnia dubia, or Parhyale hawaiensis. Additional biochemistry/molecular studies are needed to elucidate the toxic/mutagenic pathways of emodin in aquatic organisms. The PNEC value for emodin was 0.025 μg L-1. In addition to mutagenicity in the Salmonella/microsome assay, emodin was mutagenic in the micronucleus assay in the amphipod P. hawaiensis. Among the anthraquinone dyes tested to date, natural or synthetic, emodin was the most toxic to aquatic species.

Mulberry Leaf Polysaccharides Attenuate Oxidative Stress Injury in Peripheral Blood Leukocytes by Regulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

The present study assessed the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of mulberry leaf polysaccharides (MLPs) against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress injury in the peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) of Megalobrama amblycephala. Five treatment groups were established in vitro: the NC group (PBLs incubated in an RPMI-1640 complete medium for 4 h), the HP group (PBLs incubated in an RPMI-1640 complete medium for 3 h, and then stimulated with 100 μM of H2O2 for 1 h), and the 50/100/200-MLP pre-treatment groups (PBLs were pre-treated with MLPs (50, 100, and 200 μg/mL) for 3 h, and then stimulated with 100 μM of H2O2 for 1 h). The results showed that MLP pre-treatment dose-dependently enhanced PBLs' antioxidant capacities. The 200 μg/mL MLP pre-treatment effectively protected the antioxidant system of PBLs from H2O2-induced oxidative damage by reducing the malondialdehyde content and lactic dehydrogenase cytotoxicity, and increasing catalase and superoxide dismutase activities (p < 0.05). The over-production of reactive oxygen species, depletion of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential were significantly inhibited in the 200-MLP pre-treatment group (p < 0.05). The expressions of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (forkhead box O1α (foxO1α), binding immunoglobulin protein (bip), activating transcription factor 6 (atf6), and C/EBP-homologous protein (chop)), Ca2+ transport-related genes (voltage-dependent anion-selective channel 1 (vdac1), mitofusin 2 (mfn2), and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (mcu)), and interleukin 6 (il-6) and bcl2-associated x (bax) were significantly lower in the 200-MLP pre-treatment group than in the HP group (p < 0.05), which rebounded to normal levels in the NC group (p > 0.05). These results indicated that MLP pre-treatment attenuated H2O2-induced PBL oxidative damage in the M. amblycephala by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and maintaining mitochondrial function. These findings also support the possibility that MLPs can be exploited as a natural dietary supplement for M. amblycephala, as they protect against oxidative damage.

A mannitol-modified emodin nano-drug restores the intestinal barrier function and alleviates inflammation in a mouse model of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the colon that is characterized by mucosal ulcers. Given its increasing prevalence worldwide, it is imperative to develop safe and effective drugs for treating UC. Emodin, a natural anthraquinone derivative present in various medicinal herbs, has demonstrated therapeutic effects against UC. However, low bioavailability due to poor water solubility limits its clinical applications.

METHODS

Emodin-borate nanoparticles (EmB) were synthesized to improve drug solubility, and they modified with oligomeric mannitol into microgels (EmB-MO) for targeted delivery to intestinal macrophages that express mannose receptors. UC was induced in a mouse model using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and different drug formulations were administered to the mice via drinking water. The levels of inflammation-related factors in the colon tissues and fecal matter were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Intestinal permeability was evaluated using fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran. HE staining, in vivo imaging, real-time PCR, and western blotting were performed to assess intestinal barrier dysfunction.

RESULTS

Both EmB and EmB-MO markedly alleviated the symptoms of UC, including body weight loss, stool inconsistency, and bloody stools and restored the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. However, the therapeutic effects of EmB-MO on the macroscopic and immunological indices were stronger than those of EmB and similar to those of 5-aminosalicylic acid. Furthermore, EmB-MO selectively accumulated in the inflamed colon epithelium and restored the levels of the gut barrier proteins such as ZO-1 and Occludin.

CONCLUSIONS

EmB-MO encapsulation significantly improved water solubility, which translated to greater therapeutic effects on the immune balance and gut barrier function in mice with DSS-induced UC. Our findings provide novel insights into developing emodin-derived drugs for the management of UC.

Neuroprotective compounds from marine invertebrates

Background

Neuroinflammation is a key pathological feature of a wide variety of neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s disease. While current treatments for these disorders are primarily symptomatic, there is a growing interest in developing new therapeutics that target the underlying neuroinflammatory processes.

Main body

Marine invertebrates, such as coral, sea urchins, starfish, sponges, and sea cucumbers, have been found to contain a wide variety of biologically active compounds that have demonstrated potential therapeutic properties. These compounds are known to target various key proteins and pathways in neuroinflammation, including 6-hydroxydopamine (OHDH), caspase-3 and caspase-9, p-Akt, p-ERK, p-P38, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), amyloid-β (Aβ), HSF-1, α-synuclein, cellular prion protein, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), paraquat (PQ), and mitochondria DJ-1.

Short conclusion

This review focuses on the current state of research on the neuroprotective effects of compounds found in marine invertebrates and the potential therapeutic implications of these findings for treating neuroinflammatory disorders. We also discussed the challenges and limitations of using marine-based compounds as therapeutics, such as sourcing and sustainability concerns, and the need for more preclinical and clinical studies to establish their efficacy and safety.

Graphical abstract

Substituting fish meal with castor meal in diets of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂): Effects on growth performance, immune response, antioxidant and digestive enzyme activities, gut morphology, and inflammatory-related gene expression

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of replacing fishmeal (FM) with castormeal (CM) on the growth performance, immune response, antioxidant and digestive enzyme activities, intestinal morphology, and expression of inflammatory-related genes in juvenile hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ ×E. lanceolatus♂). Six iso-nitrogenous (50% crude protein) and iso-lipidic (10% crude lipid) diets were formulated; namely, a reference diet (FM) containing 50% FM and five experimental diets (4% (CM4), 8% (CM8), 12% (CM12), 16% (CM16), and 20% (CM20)) in which FM protein was substituted with CM at varying levels to feed fish (initial weight: 9.12 ± 0.01 g) for 8 weeks. The results showed that the final weight, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate were highest in the FM, CM4, and CM8 groups, whereas the feed conversion ratio, hepatosomatic and viscerosomatic indexes were significantly enhanced in the CM4 group in comparison to the others. The CM4 and CM12 groups were observed to show the highest intestinal length index values compared to the other groups, with the CM20 revealing the worst growth performance. The serum total protein content first increased (P < 0.05) in the CM4 group and decreased (P < 0.05) afterward. Nonetheless, a decreasing significant (P < 0.05) cholesterol and triglyceride contents were witnessed with the increasing replacement of FM with CM. Compared to the control group, a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the activities of serum and liver immunoglobulin-M, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and complement-3 (except serum activity for CM12 group); liver lysozyme; intestinal amylase, and lipase, was witnessed in the CM groups. However, the serum lysozyme activity was highest (P < 0.05) in the CM4 group and lowest in the CM20 group. While the least serum malondialdehyde contents were observed in the CM4 group, that of the liver malondialdehyde was least witnessed in the FM, CM4, CM8, CM12, and CM16 groups as compared to the CM20. The intestinal histological examination revealed a significantly decreasing trend for villi height and villi width with increasing replacement levels. However, the muscle thickness, crypt depth, and type II mucus cells first increased upto 4% replacement level and later decreased. The increasing of dietary replacement levels significantly up-regulated pro-inflammatory (il-1β, tnf-α, myd88, ifn-γ, tlr-22, and il-12p40) and down-regulated anti-inflammatory (il-10, tgf-β, mhc-iiβ) and anti-bacterial peptide (epinecidin and hepcidin) mRNA levels in the intestine. The mRNA levels of il-6 was up-regulated firstly upto 4 and 8% replacement levels, and later down-regulated with increasing replacement. These results suggested that, although higher dietary CM replacement enhances the immune, antioxidant and digestive enzymes, it aggravates intestinal inflammation. Replacing 4 and 8% of FM with CM could enhance the growth performance of fish.

Modulation of growth performance, antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and disease resistance in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) upon compound probiotic cultures inclusion

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of compound probiotic cultures (CPC; Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and disease resistance of juvenile largemouth bass. Triplicate groups of largemouth bass (average weight 42.05 ± 0.02 g), with a destiny of 30 individuals per tank, were fed diets supplemented with different concentration of compound probiotic cultures (CPC) (0%, CPC (0.0); 0.5%, CPC (0.5); 1.0%, CPC (1.0); 2.0%, CPC (2.0)). After the feeding trial, tissue samples of largemouth bass were collected and the challenge test with Aeromonas hydrophila was performed. Results indicated that the CPC supplementation produced no significant difference on the growth performance, feed utilization and body composition of largemouth bass, while significantly increased the cumulative survival rate in the Aeromonas hydrophila challenge test. Meanwhile, the inclusion of CPC elevated the hepatic antioxidant capacity, and the highest activity of antioxidant enzymes, including T-AOC, CAT, GPx and T-SOD, was observed in the CPC (2.0) group. Meanwhile, the transcription of Nrf2/keap1 and antioxidant related genes, including CAT, GPx, GST, SOD1 and SOD2, was significantly elevated with the inclusion of CPC. In addition, the inclusion of CPC improved the non-specific immunity of largemouth bass. The activity of serum lysozyme was significantly elevated in the CPC (2.0) group, while the transcription of RelA and pro-inflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-1β, was inhibited with the inclusion of CPC. Meanwhile, related genes potentially linked to RelA, including TLR2 and p38 MAPK, were detected that their relative expression was significantly inhibited with the inclusion of CPC. The current findings indicated that the inclusion of 2% CPC improved the antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and disease resistance of juvenile largemouth bass, and suggested that 2% CPC as a functional additive could be applied to the diet of juvenile largemouth bass in aquaculture practice.

HEPATOCELLULAR TOXICITY OF THE METABOLITE EMODIN PRODUCED BY THE COMMON BUCKTHORN (RHAMNUS CATHARTICA) IN GREEN FROG (LITHOBATES CLAMITANS) TADPOLES

The secondary metabolite emodin, produced by the widely distributed invasive shrub known as the common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), has been shown to produce deformities and mortality in invertebrates, fish, and amphibian larvae. Here, we describe the effects on the liver of green frog (Lithobates clamitans) tadpoles after 21 d of exposure to high concentrations of emodin in a controlled environment. Histopathologic analysis showed fibrosis, bile duct proliferation, hepatocellular swelling, and accumulations of flocculent material consistent with emodin within the gall bladder and bile ducts of exposed individuals. The extensive fibrosis produced probably impeded the blood flow within the portal triads, limiting the detoxification function of the liver and resulting in hepatocellular necrosis and premature death for the individuals exposed. Exposure to emodin in the environment could represent a significant threat to developing amphibian larvae and contribute to local declines of populations.

Application of Transcriptome Analysis to Understand the Adverse Effects of Hypotonic Stress on Different Development Stages in the Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii Post-Larvae

Salinity is one of the important environmental factors affecting survival and growth of aquatic animals. However, the impact of low-salinity stress on M. rosenbergii post-larvae at different development stages remains elusive. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms of hypotonic stress at different development stages of M. rosenbergii post-larvae through transcriptome analysis and antioxidant parameters detection. The salinity of the control group was 15 psu (S15) and the hypotonic stress group was 6 psu (S6). Samples were collected at 7 days-post-hatch (dph), 14 dph and 21 dph larvae. The results showed that hypotonic stress caused oxidative damage in post-larvae evidenced by decreased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px); superoxide dismutase (SOD); anti-superoxide anion free radical (ASAFR); and increased malondialdehyde (MDA); nitric oxide (NO); and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels. Transcriptome analysis showed that there were 1428, 1187, 132 DEGs including 301, 366, 4 up-regulated genes and 1127, 821, 128 down-regulated genes at 7 dph, 14 dph and 21 dph larvae under hypotonic stress, respectively. Furthermore, GO and KEGG enrichment indicated that hypotonic stress led to dysregulation of immune signals including lysosome and autophagy in the 7 dph larvae. The autophagy-related genes including beclin 1-associated autophagy-related key regulator (Barkor); ubiquitin-like modifier-activating enzyme ATG7 (ATG7); Beclin; autophagy-related protein 13 (ATG13); nuclear receptor-binding factor 2 (Nrbf2); ubiquitin-like-conjugating enzyme ATG3 (ATG3); vacuole membrane protein 1 (VMP1); and autophagy-related protein 2 (ATG2) decreased at 7 dph, and 14 dph larvae, and then increased at 21 dph larvae under hypotonic stress. In the 14 dph and 21 dph larvae, the renin-angiotensin system was activated. In conclusion, our data indicated that hypotonic stress reduced the antioxidant capacity and impaired the immune system in post-larvae, but as development progresses, the adaptability of post-larvae to hypotonic stress gradually increased, and might reach a new homeostasis through the RAS signaling pathway.

Ascorbate-and iron-driven redox activity of Dp44mT and emodin facilitates peroxidation of micelles and bicelles

BACKGROUND

Iron (Fe)-induced oxidative stress leads to reactive oxygen species that damage biomembranes, with this mechanism being involved in the activity of some anti-cancer chemotherapeutics.

METHODS

Herein, we compared the effect of Fe complexes of the ligand, di-2-pyridylketone 4,4-dimethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone (Dp44mT), or the potential ligand, Emodin, on lipid peroxidation in cell membrane models (micelles and bicelles). These studies were performed in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and the absence or presence of ascorbate.

RESULTS

In the absence of ascorbate, Fe(II)/Emodin mixtures incubated with H₂O₂ demonstrated slight pro-oxidant properties on micelles versus Fe(II) alone, while the Fe(III)-Dp44mT complex exhibited marked antioxidant properties. Examining more physiologically relevant phospholipid-containing bicelles, the Fe(II)- and Fe(III)-Dp44mT complexes demonstrated antioxidant activity without ascorbate. Upon adding ascorbate, there was a significant increase in the peroxidation of micelles and bicelles in the presence of unchelated Fe(II) and H₂O₂. The addition of ascorbate to Fe(III)-Dp44mT substantially increased the peroxidation of micelles and bicelles, with the Fe(III)-Dp44mT complex being reduced by ascorbate to the Fe(II) state, explaining the increased reactivity. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated ascorbyl radical anion generation after mixing ascorbate and Emodin, with signal intensity being enhanced by H₂O₂. This finding suggested Emodin semiquinone radical formation that could play a role in its reactivity via ascorbate-driven redox cycling. Examining cultured melanoma cells in vitro, ascorbate at pharmacological levels enhanced the anti-proliferative activity of Dp44mT and Emodin.

CONCLUSIONS AND GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Ascorbate-driven redox cycling of Dp44mT and Emodin promotes their anti-proliferative activity.

Echinacoside Suppresses the Progression of Breast Cancer by Downregulating the Expression of miR-4306 and miR-4508

The main treatment of breast cancer includes surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and molecular targeted therapy, but the outcomes remain unsatisfactory. Previous studies demonstrated that echinacoside, microRNA (miRNA/miR)-4306 and miR-4508 were associated with lymph node metastasis, chemoresistance and self-renewal capability in breast cancer, but in-depth studies on the underlying mechanism of their anticancer effects have not been performed to date. In order to identify the role of miR-4306 and miR-4508, and the mechanism of the antitumor effect of echinacoside in breast cancer, the present study first examined the expression of miR-4306 and miR-4508 in breast cancer tissues to examine their possible role in the development of breast cancer, then evaluated the effect of echinacoside on the expression of miR-4306 and miR-4508 on the viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, and invasion abilities of breast cancer cells to explore the anti-cancer effect of echinacoside and the involvement of miR-4306 and miR-4508. Finally, the breast cancer cells and mice bearing breast cancer xenografts were treated with echinacoside and inhibitors of miR-4508 or miR-4306 to confirm their role on the anticancer effect of echinacoside. The results showed that miR-4306 and miR-4508 were decreased in breast cancer tissues and cells. Echinacoside inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and migration, and promoted the apoptosis of breast cancer cells by downregulating the expression of miR-4306 and miR-4508. In conclusion, this is the first study to show the association between echinacoside and miRNAs in cancer. The present study elucidates an underlying molecular mechanism of the antitumor effect of echinacoside on breast cancer, and thus may contribute to preventive and therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.

Histological alterations, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response in the liver of swamp eel (Monopterus albus) acutely exposed to copper

Copper (Cu) is widely used as an essential trace element in diets as well as a therapeutic chemical. However, excessive Cu has deleterious effects on organisms, including teleosts. Although numerous toxic effects of Cu have been reported, the effects of Cu exposure on the swamp eel (Monopterus albus) as well as the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. In this study, swamp eels were acutely exposed to 100, 200, and 400 μg/L of Cu for 96 h to evaluate liver histopathology, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Dissolution of hepatocyte membrane, vacuolar degeneration, and inflammatory cell infiltration were detected in the livers of the Cu-treated swamp eels, especially in the 400 μg Cu/L group. Cu-induced hepatic dysfunction was further verified by the elevated activities of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) and transcript levels of GOT and GPT genes. In addition, Cu exposure decreased the activities of total superoxide dismutase T-SOD and catalase (CAT) and the contents of glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and increased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). Cu exposure also significantly decreased the transcript levels of glutathione synthetase (GSS) and increased the transcript levels of SOD1, SOD2, CAT, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) genes. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory genes such as interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-8 were significantly upregulated. These results indicate that Cu induces oxidative stress and inflammatory response and causes pathological changes in the liver of the swamp eel.

Culture salinity modulates Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway and immune response of juvenile Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) (Oreochromis niloticus) under different dietary protein levels

This study aimed to evaluate that dietary protein levels and culture salinity levels affect the health status of juvenile genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus). Graded protein levels of six diets were prepared, ranging from 18.20% to 49.49% (dry basis), and were used in cultured GIFT at two salinity levels (0‰ and 8‰) for 8 weeks. The results suggested that appropriate protein levels reduced pro-inflammatory gene expressions in the intestine including interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 8 (IL-8) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA levels at two salinity levels (P < 0.05). 8‰ salinity significantly decreased the expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) (P < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory factor interleukin 10 (IL-10) was significantly increased by 36.42% protein level (P < 0.05). Regarding antioxidant capacity, appropriate protein levels and 8‰ salinity significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of fish by regulating the activities of intestinal total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and the levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, appropriate protein levels and 8‰ salinity also significantly enhanced the antioxidant gene expressions associated with the Nrf2/keap1 signaling pathway by regulating the expression levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), GPx, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). According to GPx activities and the mRNA levels of IL-10, the optimum dietary protein levels for GIFT juveniles were 31.12%-32.18% (0‰) and 34.25-35.38% (8‰) based on second-degree polynomial regression analysis. The present study found that appropriate protein levels and 8‰ culture salinity are critical in maintaining the health of GIFT juveniles by improving antioxidant and immune capacity.

An Update of Anthraquinone Derivatives Emodin, Diacerein, and Catenarin in Diabetes

Diabetes is part of metabolic diseases and is characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period as result of an insulin-deficient production or an inappropriate response to insulin by our cells. This chronic disease was the direct cause of 1.6 million deaths in 2016 as reported by the World Health Organization. Emodin is a natural product and active ingredient of various Chinese herbs with the chemical formula 1,3,8-trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone. Diacerein is another naturally occurring anthraquinone (1,8-diacetoxy-3-carboxyanthraquinone) commonly used as commercial drug to treat osteoarthritis. These two anthraquinone derivatives have been shown to exert antidiabetic activities. Emodin seems to enhance the glucose tolerance and insulin sensibility via activation of PPARγ and modulation of metabolic-related genes. Diacerein seems to decrease inflammatory cytokines and increase insulin secretion enhancing insulin sensibility and therefore improving glucose control. Other naturally occurring anthraquinone derivatives, such as catenarin (1,4,6,8-tetrahydroxy-3-methylanthraquinone), have been shown to have antidiabetic activities although few studies have been performed. The synthesis of new emodin derivatives is increasing, but these new molecules have not been tested for diabetes treatment. In the current work, available literature on anthraquinone derivatives' effects in diabetes disease is reviewed. Moreover, we discuss the chemistry, food sources, bioavailability, and toxicity of the naturally occurring anthraquinone with antidiabetic effects.

Emodin resists to Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 replication via the pathways of Nrf2/Keap1-ARE and NF-κB in the ornamental koi carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus)

Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (CyHV-3) causes high mortality in carp. Emodin has been shown of the effects of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral. In present study, we investigated the preventive effects and mechanism of emodin on CyHV-3 infection. The ornamental koi carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) were intraperitoneally injected with emodin (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, or 40 mg/kg). 72 h later, an intraperitoneal injection of CyHV-3 was administered, and collected the samples one week later to detect the antioxidant parameters, antioxidant genes, inflammatory genes and to perform histopathology assays. The results showed that emodin significantly suppressed CyHV-3 replication (P < 0.05), improved the koi survival rate and slowed the damage caused by CyHV-3. Emodin treatment increased the antioxidant activity and decreased the lipid peroxidation level of the koi. Compared to the CyHV-3 group, emodin treatment resulted in the same antioxidant parameters after CyHV-3 infection. Emodin treatment activated the Nuclear factorery throid 2-related factor 2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1-antioxidatant response element (Nrf2/Keap1-ARE) pathway and upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in the hepatopancreas after CyHV-3 infection. Emodin activated the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway and decreased the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the koi induced by CyHV-3. In conclusion, emodin treatment can suppress CyHV-3 replication and reduce the mortality of koi caused by CyHV-3. Emodin improves antioxidant function, relieves oxidative stress and inflammation cytokines via Nrf2/Keap1-ARE and NF-κB pathways, and protects against the adverse effects induced by CyHV-3.

Synergistic effects of black ginseng and aged garlic extracts for the amelioration of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease that can lead to carcinoma, cirrhosis, and death. Since no approved medications are available, dietary interventions that include bioactive compounds have been recommended. This study investigated the effects of black ginseng extracts (BGE) and aged black garlic extracts (AGE) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Micrograph of liver tissues of mice fed with BGE and AGE showed less lipid droplets. The BGE and AGE supplements individually and in combination lowered the marker enzymes, aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels indicating their hepatoprotective effects. Compared to the plants extracts alone, the combination of the extracts resulted in lower total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-C), which are risk markers for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Diets with the combination of BGE and AGE supplements had higher superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and lower malondialdehyde indicating the synergistic effects of the extracts. Irrespective of the diet type, all treated groups showed lower tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) values as compared to HFD, which indicated overall immunomodulatory effect of both extracts. Therefore, the innovative formulation formed by the combination of BGE and AGE can provide hepatoprotective effects via modulating glycometabolism, lipometabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation in mice.

Effects of Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) Leaf Extract on Growth Performance and Fecal Microflora of Weaned Piglets

The paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) leaf is rich in alkaloids and flavonoids, which has high medicinal and feeding value. We aimed to analyze the effects of B. papyrifera leaf extract on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune functions, and fecal microflora of weaned piglets. Thirty healthy, 28-day-old piglets were randomly assigned to three groups and fed with a basal diet supplemented with 0, 150, and 300 g/t B. papyrifera leaf extract for 42 days (control group, group I, and group II) separately. The result revealed that the final weight of piglets in group II was higher than the other groups, and the diarrhea rate in this group was 62.9% lower than in the control group. The feed conversion ratio in group I was significantly lower than the other two groups. Higher blood urine nitrogen concentration was noted in group II, higher glutathione peroxidase and catalase in group II, higher superoxide dismutase in the control group, and higher immune globulins (Ig) IgG, IgA, and IgM in group II. There was no significant difference in community richness and community diversity among the three groups of fecal samples. The relative level of Roseburia was higher in groups I and II, while Lactobacillus was higher in the control group. In conclusion, supplementation with B. papyrifera leaf extract at a certain dosage can increase growth performance and antioxidant capacity of weaned piglets, reduce the occurrence of diarrhea, enhance immune functions and disease resistance, and affect the composition of fecal microflora.

The pharmacology, toxicology and therapeutic potential of anthraquinone derivative emodin

Emodin (1, 3, 8-trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone) is a derived anthraquinone compound extracted from roots and barks of pharmaceutical plants, including Rheum palmatum, Aloe vera, Giant knotweed, Polygonum multiflorum and Polygonum cuspidatum. The review aims to provide a scientific summary of emodin in pharmacological activities and toxicity in order to identify the therapeutic potential for its use in human specific organs as a new medicine. Based on the fundamental properties, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antivirs, anti-diabetes, immunosuppressive and osteogenesis promotion, emodin is expected to become an effective preventive and therapeutic drug of cancer, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, diabetes, acute pancreatitis, asthma, periodontitis, fatty livers and neurodegenerative diseases. This article intends to provide a novel insight for further development of emodin, hoping to reveal the potential of emodin and necessity of further studies in this field.

The immunoreaction and antioxidant capacity of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) involves the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 and NF-κB signal pathways in response to dietary methionine levels

A 75-day rearing trail was designed to evaluate the immunoreaction and antioxidant capacity of juvenile blunt snout bream in response to dietary methionine levels. Three practical diets were extruded to feed juveniles with graded methionine levels (0.40%, 0.84% and 1.28% dry matter). The data indicated that the plasma concentrations of immunoglobulin M (IgM), complement component 3 (C3) and glutathione (GSH) in the 0.84% methionine diet were markedly upper than those in the 0.40% group (P < 0.05). The activities of plasma antioxidant parameters involving catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly increased by the 0.84% diet compared with the 0.40% diet, whereas plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly induced by 0.40% methionine (P < 0.05). Compared with the 0.40% group, 0.84% dietary methionine dramatically upregulated the mRNA expression levels of protein kinase B (Akt), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway related genes including CAT, manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1) in the kidney and liver, and downregulated Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) mRNA levels (P < 0.05). Compared with the 0.40% group, the 0.84% dietary methionine strikingly suppressed the mRNA levels of renal and hepatic nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6)), however, improved the mRNA expression levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines involved renal and hepatic transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and hepatic interleukin 10 (IL-10) (P < 0.05). Renal IL-10 and interleukin 8 (IL-8) mRNA expression levels were not markedly influenced by experimental diets (P > 0.05). Dietary methionine (0.84%) significantly upregulated renal and hepatic heat stress protein 70 (Hsp70), renal B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) gene expression levels compared with the 0.40% diet (P < 0.05). In a word, the data represented that 0.84% dietary methionine could enhance the immune and antioxidant capacity of this fish species by inducing PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting NF-κB pathway.

Emodin 8-O-glucoside primes macrophages more strongly than emodin aglycone via activation of phagocytic activity and TLR-2/MAPK/NF-κB signalling pathway

Emodin (Emo) is a natural plant anthraquinone derivative with a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including anticancer, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities. Glycosylation of natural anthraquinones with various sugar moieties can affect their physical, chemical, and biological functions. In this study, the potential immunomodulatory activities of Emo and its glycosylated derivative, emodin 8-O-glucoside (E8G), were evaluated and compared using murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells and human monocytic THP-1 cells. The results showed that E8G (20 μM) induced the secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 from RAW264.7 cells more effectively than unglycosylated Emo aglycone, by 4.9- and 1.6-fold, respectively, with no significant cytotoxicity in the concentration range tested (up to 20 μM). E8G (2.5-20 μM) significantly and dose-dependently induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression by up to 3.2-fold compared to that of untreated control following a remarkable increase in nitric oxide (NO) production. E8G also significantly increased the expression of TLR-2 mRNA and the phosphorylation of MAPKs (JNK and p38). The activation and subsequent nuclear translocation of NF-κB was substantially enhanced upon treatment with E8G (2.5-20 μM). Moreover, E8G markedly induced macrophage-mediated phagocytosis of apoptotic Jurkat T cells. These results demonstrated that E8G far more strongly stimulates the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, and NO production from macrophages through upregulation of the TLR-2/MAPK/NF-κB signalling pathway than its nonglycosylated form, Emo aglycone. These results suggest for the first time that E8G may represent a novel immunomodulator, enhancing the early innate immunity.

In vivo Hepatoprotective and in vitro Radical Scavenging Activities of Extracts of Rumex abyssinicus Jacq. Rhizome

BACKGROUND

Liver diseases contribute a prominent global burden of mortality and morbidity. The current therapies of liver diseases have numerous limitations including severe adverse effects. This denotes that new more effective, safer, and cheaper drugs are required and medicinal plants used in traditional medicines often offer ideal opportunities. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the in vivo hepatoprotective and in vitro radical scavenging activities of dried rhizome extracts of Rumex abyssinicus (R. abyssinicus), which is traditionally claimed to provide hepatoprotection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatoprotective activity of extracts was evaluated using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in mice. Pre- and post-treatment models were employed to test the effect of the extracts and silymarin (standard drug). Serum biochemical markers and liver histopathology were used as parameters to evaluate hepatoprotective activities whereas in vitro radical scavenging activity was tested by 2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) assay.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Oral administration of CCl4 (1 ml/kg) significantly (P<0.001) raised the serum levels of liver enzyme markers compared to the normal control group. Pre-treatment with 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of R. abyssinicus extract reduced the serum level of CCl4-induced rise in liver enzyme markers with the highest reduction observed at a dose of 500 mg/kg. Likewise, in the post-treatment model, the crude extract and butanol fraction at dose 500 mg/kg reduced levels of liver enzymes. Histopathological examinations revealed lesser liver damage of extract-treated mice compared to the toxic (CCl4-treated) controls. The in vitro radical scavenging activity of the different extracts showed concentration-dependent radical scavenging activity. Thus, the results of this study may justify the traditional use of the plant as a hepatoprotective agent.

CONCLUSION

Results of serum biochemical markers and histopathological examinations of CCl4-induced mice models, in the present study, show the hepatoprotective potential of extracts from the rhizome of R. abyssinicus.

Effect of Yucca schidigera extract on the growth performance, intestinal antioxidant status, immune response, and tight junctions of mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The current study was designed to evaluate the effect of Yucca schidigera extract (YSE) on the growth performance, intestinal antioxidant status, immune response, and tight junctions of mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio). A total of 450 mirror carp (45.21 ± 0.43 g) were fed diets supplemented with 0, 200, or 400 mg/kg YSE for 8 weeks. Compared with the control (0 mg/kg), the final body weight and weight gain rate were significantly higher in the 400 mg/kg YSE group (P < 0.05), and the serum ammonia concentration was significantly lower in both YSE groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, the total antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in the 400 mg/kg YSE group (P < 0.05), and the malondialdehyde content was significantly lower in both YSE groups (P < 0.05). Complement 3 and 4 contents were significantly higher in the 400 mg/kg YSE group (P < 0.05), and lysozyme was significantly higher in both YSE groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The relative mRNA levels of copper zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase1a, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 as well as transforming growth factor β were significantly higher in both YSE supplemented groups compared to the control (P < 0.05), whereas the relative mRNA level of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 was significantly lower in both YSE supplemented groups (P < 0.05). The relative mRNA levels of interleukin 1β and interleukin 6 were significantly lower in the 400 mg/kg YSE supplemented group compared to the control (P < 0.05). Additionally, both YSE levels decreased the relative mRNA expression of tumour necrosis factor-α (P < 0.05). The relative mRNA levels of ZO-1 and claudin 11 were significantly higher in both YSE supplemented groups (P < 0.05), and the relative mRNA level of occludin was significantly higher in the 200 mg/kg YSE group than the control and 400 mg/kg YSE groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 400 mg/kg YSE improved the growth, intestinal antioxidant status, immune response, and tight junctions of mirror carp.

Rheum officinale extract promotes the innate immunity of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and exerts strong bactericidal activity against six aquatic pathogens

We investigated the antimicrobial properties and the effects of Rheum officinale extract (ROE) on nonspecific immune parameters of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro analysis was conducted by treating grouper primary head kidney leukocytes with various concentrations of ROE. The phagocytic rate of the leukocytes was elevated in a dose-dependent manner from 0.01 to 0.1 mg/ml, but decreased with higher concentrations of ROE (0.5 and 1.0 mg/ml). The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was strongly enhanced in a dose-dependent manner by treatment with ROE doses of 0.1-10.0 mg/ml. However, morphological changes (e.g., rounding and shrinkage of cells, chromatin condensation, fragmentation, and appearance of apoptotic bodies) were observed in the leukocytes after incubation with higher concentrations of ROE (1.0 and 10.0 mg/ml). A 28-day feeding trial was performed to assess the impact of dietary administration of ROE on grouper innate immunity parameters. Fish were fed with feed supplemented with 0, 0.1, 1.0, or 5.0 g ROE per kg of feed. The phagocytic activity of the animals' leukocytes was significantly elevated in all ROE-fed groups on day 1 and in groups fed with ROE at 0.1 or 1.0 g/kg on day 14. Production of ROS was substantially increased on day 1 in fish fed with ROE at 1.0 and 5.0 g/kg, but decreased steadily later on. The ability to generate ROS increased steadily until day 7 in fish fed the lowest concentration of ROE (0.1 mg/ml), but decreased thereafter. ROE showed excellent antibacterial activity against six pathogens of aquatic animals: Vibrio parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus, V. alginolyticus, V. carchariae, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Edwardsiella tarda. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of measured ROE-derived anthraquinones were 10.57-84.53 μg/ml and 10.57-169.05 μg/ml, respectively.

The effect of emodin on liver disease -- comprehensive advances in molecular mechanisms

Liver injury could be caused by a variety of causes, including alcohol, drug poisoning, autoimmune overreaction, etc. In the period of liver injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) will be activated and produce excessive extracellular matrix (ECM). If injury cannot be suppressed, liver injury will develop into fibrosis, even cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is reported that some monomer components extracted from traditional Chinese medicine have better effects on protecting liver. Emodin, an anthraquinone compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine RHEI RADIX ET RHIZOMA, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, liver protection and anti-cancer effects, and can prevent liver injury induced by a variety of factors. By searching literatures related to the liver protection of emodin in PUBMED, SINOMED, EBM and CNKI databases, it was found that emodin could inhibit the production and promote the secretion of bile acids, and have a protective effect on intrahepatic cholestasis. Also, emodin reduce collagen synthesis and anti-hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress, TGF-β/Smad pathway and HSCs proliferation, and promoting apoptosis of HSCs. Emodin can also regulate lipid metabolism and regulate the synthesis and oxidation of lipids and cholesterol to protect the nonalcoholic fatty liver. Besides, emodin can induce the apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by acting on the death receptor pathway and mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, thus inhibiting the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Moreover, emodin can modulate immunity and improve immune rejection in liver transplantation animals. In conclusion, emodin has a good effect on liver protection, but further experimental data are needed to verify it.

Proteomics Unravels Emodin Causes Liver Oxidative Damage Elicited by Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Emodin is one of the main active compounds in many Chinese traditional herbs. Due to its potential toxic effect on the liver, the possible injury mechanism needs to be explored. In the present study, we investigated liver injury mechanisms of emodin on rats by the technology of proteomics. Firstly, 4530 proteins were identified from the liver of rats treated with emodin by label free proteomics. Inside, 892 differential proteins were selected, presenting a downward trend. Bioinformatics analysis showed that proteins interfered with by emodin were mainly involved in oxidation-reduction biological processes and mitochondrial metabolic pathways, such as mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation, citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, which were further confirmed by western blot. The decrease in maximal respiration, ATP production, spare respiratory capacity, and coupling efficiency and increase in proton leakage were detected by seahorse XFe 24 analyzer, which confirmed the damage of mitochondrial function. The down-regulated expressions in antioxidant proteins were verified by western blot and a significant increase of ROS levels were detected in emodin group, which showed that emodin disrupted redox homeostasis in livers. Molecular docking revealed that the main targets of emodin might be acadvl and complex IV. Generally, emodin could induce oxidative stress in livers by directly targeting acadvl/complex IV and inhibiting fatty acid β-oxidation, citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation taken place in mitochondria.

The effect of partial replacement of fish meal by soy protein concentrate on growth performance, immune responses, gut morphology and intestinal inflammation for juvenile hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂)

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of partial replacement of fish meal by soy protein concentrate (SPC) on the growth performance, immune responses, intestine morphology and relation gene expression of intestinal inflammation for juvenile hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂) (initial weight 12.5 ± 0.00 g). Eight isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets (48.61% protein and 11.17% lipid) were formulated by replacing 0% (the control), 11%, 22%, 33%, 44%, 55%, 66%, and 77% of fish meal (FM) with SPC, respectively (the eight dietary be named FM, S11, S22, S33, S44, S55, S66, and S77, respectively). With the replacement level increased, the final body weight, weight gain ratio (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate of fish were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared with the group FM. By contrast, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) of fish was significantly increased (P < 0.05) when the replacement level up to 44%. Partial FM replacement by SPC (ranging from 11% to 77%) substantially reduced (P < 0.05) the serum total protein, albumin, and total cholesterol contents compared with the group FM. Liver total superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activities, and total antioxidant capacity showed the same trend of gradual increase first and then decrease. Their highest values were found in the replacement levels of 55%, 33%, 22%, and 55% and were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the control group. The lowest malondialdehyde content was observed in group S77 and was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that of the control group. The complements C3 and C4 contents of fish fed with experimental diets (replacement level ranged from 11% to 66%) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the group FM. The liver lysozyme activity of the control group was the lowest and was significantly lower than that of other dietary treatments (P < 0.05). Villus length and muscle thickness in the intestine of fish were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than other groups when the replacement level exceeded 44%. With dietary replacement levels increased, the TLR22, MyD88, p65, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-12P40 and INF-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10, epinecidin, MHCIIβ and hepcidin) mRNA levels in the proximal intestine were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05). The TLR22, MyD88, p65, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-12P40 and INF-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10, MHCIIβ and hepcidin) mRNA levels in the mid intestine were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05). The mRNA levels of TLR22, anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-12P40, INF-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10, epinecidin, MHCIIβ and hepcidin) in the distal intestine were significantly down-regulated (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of MyD88 and p65 mRNA were showed a tend increased first and then decreased, and the highest values were observed in group S33 and S55 (P < 0.05), respectively. Based on the present work, the correlation between WGR and FM replacement level with SPC was described using the broken-line model, which estimated the optimum FM replacement to 37.23% for juvenile hybrid grouper dietary.

A real-time reverse-transcription isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification assay for the rapid detection of genotype III grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) reovirus

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) hemorrhagic disease, which is characterized by external and internal hemorrhage, is a serious infectious disease affecting grass carp production. Strains of the causative agent, grass carp reovirus (GCRV), are divided into genotypes I, II and III, which are represented by the isolates GCRV-873, GCRV-HZ08 and GCRV-104, respectively. In this study, a real-time reverse-transcription recombinase polymerase amplification (real-time RT-RPA) assay was developed to detect the genotype III grass carp reovirus GCRV-104. The assay was based on the detection of the vp55 gene which encodes the outer fiber protein of the virus. A portable ESE-Quant Tube scanner, with a dimension of 17.4 × 18.8 cm, weighing about 1 kg, and equipped with temperature settings to amplify the DNA isothermally and spectral devices to detect the amplified products using fluorescence, was used to complete the assay. Under the optimal conditions, the assay took approximately 10 min to complete at 37 °C and showed no cross-reactions with other aquatic viruses. Consequently, this rapid real-time RT-RPA assay is a useful method for the simple, rapid and reliable detection of genotype III GCRV strains in resource-limited diagnostic laboratories.

Effects of dietary fenugreek seed extracts on growth performance, plasma biochemical parameters, lipid metabolism, Nrf2 antioxidant capacity and immune response of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

Dietary administration of some plant-derived substances have been proved of great economic value in aquaculture. In order to investigate the effects of dietary fenugreek seed extracts (FSE) on juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala), a feeding trial was conducted for 8 weeks. The results showed that final weight (FW), weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and specific growth rate (SGR) were not significantly affected by dietary FSE levels. The whole body lipid contents of fish fed with 0.04%, 0.08% and 0.16% FSE diets were significantly lowered compared to the control group. Dietary FSE diets significantly affected plasma complement component 3 (C3), immunoglobulin M (IgM), albumin (ALB) and total protein (TP). The relative expressions of acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP1) mRNA in the liver of fish decreased significantly with increasing dietary FSE levels from 0% up to 0.04%. FSE supplementation diets lowered the liver pro-inflammatory genes expressions by regulating tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) mRNA levels and increased anti-inflammatory genes expression by regulating transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and interleukin 10 (IL-10). FSE diets increased growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and target of rapamycin (TOR) mRNA levels from 0% up to 0.04%, 0.04% FSE diets significantly increased growth factor-1 (IGF-1) mRNA levels and S6 kinase-polypeptide 1 (S6K1) mRNA levels compared to the control group. 0.04% FSE diets significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and 0.08% FSE diets significantly increased catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, 0.16% FSE diets significantly increased total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activities compared to the control group. Additionally, compared to the control group, 0.04% dietary FSE significantly up-regulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA levels and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx1) mRNA levels, at the same time, 0.02%, 0.04%, 0.08%, 0.16% FSE diets significantly down-regulated kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) mRNA levels. However, no significant effects were observed on copper zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) and manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD). Our study indicated that dietary FSE could improve plasma biochemical parameters, regulate lipid metabolism related genes, promote Nrf2 antioxidant capacity and enhance immune response of juvenile blunt snout bream.

Cytotoxic effects, inflammatory response and apoptosis induction of cyclophosphamide in the peripheral blood leukocyte of blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

The present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of the cyclophosphamide (CY) exposure (Control, 0.032, 0.32, 1.0, 1.6 and 3.2 mg/mL) on the damage in the peripheral blood leukocytes of blunt snout bream for 24 h, which including cell viability, apoptosis, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δѱm), ROS, antioxidant enzyme activity and the relative mRNA levels of apoptosis. Results showed that cell viability and Δѱm effects of CY were greatly reduced, and occurred in a dose-dependent manner. CY exposure (0.32-3.2 mg/mL) significantly increased the LDH release and induced apoptosis accompanied by ΔΨm disruption and ROS generation compared to the control. The cellular ROS was significantly increased with increase of CY level from 0.032 mg/mL to 1 mg/mL and the plateau occurred at 0.32 mg/mL. Additionally CY exposure led to oxidative stress as evidenced by significantly the decrease of SOD and CAT and increase of MDA concentration after treating cells with 3.2 mg/mL of CY. Besides, the relative mRNA levels of caspase-3 in the dose of 0.032, 0.32 mg/mL CY, caspase-9 and interleukins-1β (IL-1β) in the dose of 0.32 mg/mL CY, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the dose of 0.032 mg/mL CY significantly higher than that of the control. In conclusion, 0.32-3.2 mg/mL CY could lead to cytotoxic effect, inflammatory response and induce the apoptosis of the peripheral blood leukocyte of Megalobrama amblycephala.

Effects of dietary tryptophan levels on antioxidant status and immunity for juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) involved in Nrf2 and TOR signaling pathway

Dietary administration of tryptophan has been proved improving growth performance of fish. An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary tryptophan level on antioxidant capacity and immune response through Nrf2 and TOR signaling pathway. The results showed that, 0.08% tryptophan level significantly increased plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), while immunoglobulin M (IgM) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were strikingly increased by 0.40% level. The level of plasma complement component 3 (C3), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and albumin (ALB) were independent of tryptophan supplementation. Total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione (GSH) activity were increased with increasing dietary tryptophan level until 0.40% and then decreased, while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) showed a reverse trend. 0.19% and 0.28% tryptophan level significantly improved the glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx-1) activity. Compared with 0.08% dietary tryptophan level, 0.40% level significantly improved nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), GPx, manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), CAT and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) mRNA level, while Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) mRNA level were significantly decreased. The relative expression of copper zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), target of rapamycin (TOR), phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) were significantly improved by 0.28% diet, while the mRNA level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were increased by 0.08% diet. Interleukin 8 (IL-8) mRNA level was not significantly affected by dietary tryptophan. Based on MDA and T-SOD value, the optimal dietary tryptophan level of juvenile blunt snout bream was determined to be 0.33% (1.03% of dietary protein) and 0.36% (1.13% of dietary protein), respectively, using quadratic regression analysis.

Oxidative Status and Digestive Histology of Barramundi Perch in Response to Different Tank Colors

The oxidative status and intestinal and liver histology of Barramundi Perch Lates calcarifer juveniles were investigated in an experiment using different tank colors (black, red, blue, and white) over 6 weeks. It has been previously shown that background color can affect physiological processes in different species. The background colors did not cause significant differences in malondialdehyde, catalase, or glutathione S-transferase, whereas superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities were significantly higher in fish that were kept in black tanks. Plasma cortisol of fish adapted to blue and white tanks was significantly lower than that of fish in black tanks. The liver total antioxidant capacity was highest for fish that were maintained in white and blue tanks. The results of histopathological evaluation revealed that tank colors did not have significant effects on intestinal mucosal and enterocyte dimensions. No specific alterations were found in the liver or intestine of fish relative to the tank background color during the experimental period. In conclusion, white and blue tanks resulted in improved oxidative status of Barramundi Perch juveniles.

Identification of a Quality Marker of Vinegar-Processed Curcuma Zedoaria on Oxidative Liver Injury

Curcuma zedoaria (dry stenophora of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val., Curcuma kwangsiensis S. G. Lee et C. F. Liang, or Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C.Ling) is a representative herb with clinical effects on liver diseases after being vinegar-processed. The crude Curcuma zedoaria and the processed Curcuma zedoaria (vinegar-boil) have been widely used as mixtures, but their equivalence has not been fully investigated. In this manuscript, quality markers of processed (vinegar-boil) Curcuma zedoaria were investigated by comparison of the compounds and hepatoprotective activities with the crude (three spices) ones. First, GC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics were applied to reveal the discriminatory components and discover potential markers. As a result, a total of six components were identified as potential markers. Then, the hepatoprotective activities were evaluated by dual cell damage models induced by a certain concentration of H2O2 or tertbutyl hydfroperoxide (t-BHP) (55 μM H2O2 or 40 μM t-BHP), which highlighted the potential of the processed Curcuma zedoaria on oxidative stress. Finally, epicurzerenone was identified as its quality marker on oxidative liver injury based on the above results and the cell-based biological assay. Overall, vinegar-processed Curcuma zedoaria was more suitable for the treatment of oxidative liver diseases, and epicurzerenone could be considered as its quality marker.

Berberine attenuates sodium palmitate-induced lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in grass carp(Ctenopharyngodon idella)hepatocyte in vitro

The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of berberine (BBR) on the Cell viability, lipid accumulation, apoptosis, cytochrome c, caspase-9 and caspase-3 in lipid accumulation-hepatocytes induced by sodium palmitate in vitro. The lipid accumulation-hepatocytes (induced by 0.5 mM sodium palmitate for 24 h) were treated with 5 μM berberine for 12 h. Then, the Cell viability, intracellular triglyceride (TG) content, lipid peroxide (LPO), malonaldehyde (MDA) content, cytochrome c, caspase-9, caspase-3 and apoptosis were detected. Sodium palmitate decreased Cell viability and increased intracellular TG content, lipid droplet accumulation, LPO and MDA concentrations, caused caspase-3 and caspase-9 activation, then led to apoptosis accompanied by cytochrome c release from mitochondria into the cytoplasm. Beberine could improve intracellular lipid droplet accumulation and oxidative stress, while reduce apoptosis induced by sodium palmitate.

Molecular cloning and expression analysis of coagulation factor VIII and plasminogen involved in immune response to GCRV, and immunity activity comparison of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella with different viral resistance

The grass carp reovirus (GCRV) has been shown to cause lethal infections in the grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella (C. idella). In order to investigate the immune response to GCRV infection, the full-length cDNA sequences of coagulation factor VIII (CiFVIII) and plasminogen (CiPLG) from C. idella were cloned and their involvement in the immune response was studied. The immunity factor levels in C. idella with different GCRV resistances were also analyzed. The full-length 2478 bp cDNA of CiFVIII contained an open reading frame of 1965 bp and encoded a putative polypeptide of 654 amino acid residues. The full-length 2907 bp cDNA of CiPLG contained an open reading frame of 2133 bp and encoded a putative polypeptide of 710 amino acid residues. CiFVIII was closely clustered with that of Clupea harengus. CiPLG was first clustered with those of Cyprinus carpio and Danio rerio. CiFVIII transcripts were most abundant in the liver and least in the skin. The highest expression level of CiPLG was observed in liver and the lowest in muscle. Expression levels of CiFVIII in gill, head kidney and spleen, and expression levels of CiPLG in gill, intestine and liver all reached the maximum at 72 h post GCRV infection. In spleen, expression levels of CiFVIII and CiPLG were significantly positively correlated. The activities of T-AOC, LSZ and IgM in R♂ were significantly higher than those in O♂. Likewise, T-AOC and LSZ activities in F1 were significantly higher than f1 individuals (P < 0.01). These results indicated that CiFVIII and CiPLG may play important roles in the immune response to GCRV infection. In addition, antioxidant ability and serum immune factor activity may confer a different viral resistance to C. idella.

Emodin induces apoptosis and autophagy of fibroblasts obtained from patient with ankylosing spondylitis

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of rheumatoid disease, which has been reported to be associated with the excessive proliferation of fibroblasts recently. Emodin, a single component from a traditional Chinese medicine Rheum palmatum, exerts anti-inflammation and antirheumatic arthritis activities. However, could emodin be used to treat AS remains unclear? Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effect of emodin on AS.

Methods

Fibroblasts obtained from patients with AS were used in the current study. In addition, multiple cellular and molecular biology techniques such as Cell Counting Kit-8, Western blotting, flow cytometry, monodansylcadaverine staining, and immunofluorescence assay were applied as well.

Results

Emodin-induced apoptosis of fibroblasts obtained from patient with AS via increasing active caspase-9, active caspase-3, and Bax levels and downregulating Bcl-2. Meanwhile, emodin enhanced autophagy in fibroblasts via upregulation of the expression of Atg12, Atg5, and Beclin 1, which was further confirmed by monodansylcadaverine staining. As expected, autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3MA) completely reversed emodin-induced autophagy in fibroblasts. Moreover, 3MA significantly increased emodin-induced apoptosis of fibroblasts obtained from patient with AS by increasing the levels of γH2AX, active caspase-9, active caspase-3, and cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that emodin effectively induced apoptosis and autophagy of fibroblasts obtained from patient with AS. In addition, suppression of autophagy enhanced emodin-induced apoptosis in fibroblasts. Therefore, we proposed that combination of emodin with autophagy inhibitor might be a potent strategy for improving the symptoms of AS in the future.

Effects of dietary arginine on intestinal antioxidant status and immunity involved in Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathway in juvenile blunt snout bream, Megalobrama amblycephala

The present study assessed the effects of dietary arginine on intestinal antioxidant status and immunity involved in Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathway in juvenile blunt snout bream. Fish were fed three practical diets with graded arginine levels (0.87%, 1.62% and 2.70%) for 8 weeks. Compared with the control group (0.87%), the counts of white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC) and hemoglobin (HGB) content were significantly improved at dietary arginine levels of 1.62% (P<0.05). Plasma albumin (ALB) levels and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were significantly improved at dietary arginine levels of 1.62% and 2.70% (P < 0.05). Alanine transaminase (ALT) activity was decreased in fish fed with 1.62% dietary arginine level (P<0.05). Plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) activities, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activities and glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly increased at dietary arginine levels of 1.62% and 2.70% (P<0.05). Plasma total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activities and catalase (CAT) activities were significantly improved in fish fed with 1.62% dietary arginine level. Significantly higher manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) activity was observed in fish fed with 1.62% dietary arginine level compared with 2.70% dietary arginine level (P<0.05). 1.62% and 2.70% dietary arginine levels significantly lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The relative expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) was significantly increased in fish fed with 1.62% dietary arginine level, inversely, the relative expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) showed a converse trend. 1.62% and 2.70% dietary arginine levels significantly improved the relative expressions of Cu/Zn-SOD, GPx and CAT. Furthermore, 2.70% dietary arginine level significantly lowered the relative expression of Mn-SOD compared with the control group and 1.62% dietary arginine levels. The relative expressions of Interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were lowered in fish fed with 1.62% dietary arginine level. 1.62% and 2.70% dietary arginine levels significantly improved the relative expressions of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Hematocrit (HCT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, interleukin 8 (IL-8) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) expressions were not significantly affected by the graded dietary arginine levels. These results suggest that the optimal dietary arginine level plays an important role in enhancing antioxidant and immune status to maintain the intestinal health of juvenile blunt snout bream.

CYP3A Activation and Glutathione Depletion Aggravate Emodin-Induced Liver Injury

1,3,8-Trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone (emodin), a widely existing natural product in herbal medicines, has been reported to be hepatotoxic, but the exact underlying mechanism is still not fully understood. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of CYP3A and glutathione (GSH) in emodin-induced liver injury. Primary human hepatocytes were exposed to emodin with and without addition of CYP3A inducer/inhibitor and GSH synthesis inhibitor. It was found that emodin-mediated cytotoxicity increased when CYP3A was activated and GSH was depleted. Hepatotoxicity induced by emodin in rats by activation/inhibition of CYP3A and depletion of GSH was further investigated. Administration of emodin in combination with l-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) or dexamethasone (DEX) resulted in aggravated liver injury, whereas pretreatment with ketoconazole (KTZ) suppressed the side effects caused by emodin. In addition, plasma exposure of emodin and its glucuronide metabolite were measured by ultraperformance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Emodin and its glucuronide were lower in BSO-, DEX-, and KTZ- co-treated rats compared with those administered with emodin alone. In conclusion, these mentioned results suggested that CYP3A induction and GSH depletion might be involved in hepatotoxicity induced by emodin. This study may help to understand the risk factors and the mechanism of hepatotoxicity of emodin in humans.

Dietary leucine modulates growth performance, Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway and immune response of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

The present study assessed the effects of dietary leucine on growth performance, antioxidant status and immunity in juvenile blunt snout bream. Fish were fed six practical diets of graded leucine levels ranging from 0.90% to 2.94% of dry basis for 8 weeks. Trail results showed that compared to control group (0.90%), 1.72% dietary leucine level significantly improved final weight (FW), weight gain rate (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR), and significantly lowered feed conversion ratio (FCR). Based on WG and SGR, the optimal dietary leucine level was obtained at 1.40% and 1.56%, respectively. Whole body crude lipid and protein contents were improved with increasing dietary leucine up to 2.14% and thereafter showed a downward trend, while whole body moisture content showed a converse trend. No significant change was found in whole body ash content. 1.72% dietary leucine level significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of fish by regulating the plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, furthermore, 1.72% dietary leucine level also significantly improved the antioxidant genes expressions of associated with Nrf2 signaling pathway by regulating heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), GPx, copperezinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), 2.14% dietary leucine levels also significantly improved glutathione transferase (GST) mRNA level. Dietary leucine levels significantly affected plasma immunity parameters such as the contents of plasma complement component 3 (C3), immunoglobulin M (IgM) and lowered the hepatopancreas genes expressions of pro-inflammatory factor by regulating interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 8 (IL-8) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA levels. The present study indicated that optimal dietary leucine level plays an important role in improving growth, enhancing antioxidant and immune status to maintain the health in juvenile blunt snout bream.

Effects of both cold and heat stresses on the liver of giant spiny frog Quasipaa spinosa: stress response and histological changes

Ambient temperature associated stress can affect the normal physiological functions in ectotherms. To assess the effects of cold or heat stress on amphibians, the giant spiny frogs, Quasipaa spinosa, were acclimated at 22 °C followed by being treated at 5 °C or 30 °C for 0, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h, respectively. Histological alterations, apoptotic index, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, antioxidant activity indices and stress-response gene expressions in frog livers were subsequently determined. Results showed that many fat droplets appeared after 12 h of heat stress. Percentage of melanomacrophages centres significantly changed during 48 h at both stress conditions. Furthermore, the mitochondrial ROS levels were elevated in a time-dependent manner up to 6 h and 12 h in the cold and heat stress groups, respectively. The activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase were successively increased along the cold or heat exposure, and most of their gene expression levels showed similar changes at both stress conditions. Most tested HSP genes were sensitive to temperature exposure, and the expression profiles of most apoptosis-related genes was significantly up-regulated at 3 and 48 h under cold and heat stress, respectively. Apoptotic index at 48 h under cold stress was significantly higher than that under heat stress. Notably, lipid droplets, HSP30, HSP70 and HSP110 might be suitable bioindicators of heat stress. The results of these alterations at physiological, biochemical and molecular levels might contribute to a better understanding of the stress response of Q. spinosa and even amphibians under thermal stresses.

Emodin extends lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans through insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway depending on DAF-16 and SIR-2.1

The naturally occurring anthraquinone emodin has been serving primarily as an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. However, little is known about its potential on anti-aging. This investigation examined the effect of emodin on lifespan and focused on its physiological molecular mechanisms in vivo. Using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as an animal model, we found emodin could extend lifespan of worms and improve their antioxidant capacity. Our mechanistic studies revealed that emodin might function via insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway involving, specifically the core transcription factor DAF-16. Quantitative RT-PCR results illustrated that emodin up-regulated transcription of DAF-16 target genes which express antioxidants to promote antioxidant capacity and lifespan of worms. In addition, attenuated effect in sir-2.1 mutants suggests that emodin likely functioned in a SIR-2.1-dependent manner. Our study uncovers a novel role of emodin in prolonging lifespan and supports the understanding of emodin being a beneficial dietary supplement.

Bioconcentration and Metabolism of Emodin in Zebrafish Eleutheroembryos

Emodin is a major active anthraquinone of various herbal laxatives, which can exert many pharmacological effects. However, chronic use of anthranoid laxatives, even at low dosages, may cause melanosis coli (MC). It has been suggested that the accumulation of anthraquinones is a risk factor in the MC process. To investigate the accumulation of emodin, we conducted a bioconcentration study of emodin in zebrafish eleutheroembryos. Based on the economic cooperation and development (OECD) 305 test, zebrafish eleutheroembryos were exposed to emodin at a constant concentration for 48 h, before the test media were replaced by the blank medium for 24 h of depuration. To eliminate the effect of metabolism of emodin for assessment of the bioconcentration factor (BCF), we also conducted a modified test for which zebrafish eleutheroembryos were exposed to the non-renewed test media, whose emodin concentration decreased with time. At different exposure time points, zebrafish eleutheroembryos and exposure media were sampled for analysis of emodin concentration using HPLC-MS/MS. The results showed rapid accumulation of emodin in zebrafish eleutheroembryos to reach a steady-state concentration within 24 h. Meanwhile, emodin was actively metabolized by zebrafish eleutheroembryos to result in 29.5–40.7% of its elimination. In the groups with high or low concentrations of emodin, the standardized BCF (sBCF) values in the standard test were 24.0 and 20.0, while those in the modified test were 50.4 and 52.0. These results showed that emodin could accumulate in zebrafish eleutheroembryos when used for 48 h and beyond, suggesting that the accumulation of anthraquinones may be a risk factor in the MC process. Accordingly, emodin should be unsuitable for long-term use due to its accumulation.

The effects of emodin on cell viability, respiratory burst and gene expression of Nrf2-Keap1 signaling molecules in the peripheral blood leukocytes of blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

We determined the effects of emodin on the cell viability, respiratory burst activity, mRNA levels of antioxidative enzymes (Cu-Zn SOD, CAT and NOX2), and gene expressions of the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling molecules in the peripheral blood leukocytes of blunt snout bream. Triplicate groups of cultured cells were treated with different concentrations of emodin (0.04-25 μg/ml) for 24 h. Results showed that the emodin caused a dramatic loss in cell viability, and occurred in a dose-dependent manner. Emodin exposure (1-25 μg/ml) were significantly induced the ROS generation compared to the control. The respiratory burst and NADPH oxidase activities were significantly induced at a concentration of 0.20 μg/ml, and inhibited at 25 μg/ml. Besides, mRNA levels of antioxidant enzyme genes were dramatically regulated by emodin exposure for 24 h. During low concentrations of exposure, mRNA levels of Cu-Zn SOD in the cells treated with 0.04, 0.20 μg/ml, CAT, NOX2 and Nrf2 in the cells treated with 1 μg/ml were sharply increased, respectively. Whereas, high concentrations were dramatically down-regulated the gene expressions of CAT in the cells treated with 5, 25 μg/ml and NOX2 in the cells treated with 25 μg/ml. Furthermore, sharp increase in Keap1and Bach1 expression levels were observed a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that emodin could induce antioxidant defenses which were involved in cytotoxic activities, respiratory burst and the transcriptional regulation levels of antioxidant enzymes and Nrf2-Keap1 signaling molecules.

Effects of berberine on the growth and immune performance in response to ammonia stress and high-fat dietary in blunt snout bream Megalobrama amblycephala

This study aimed to figure out the effects of berberine on growth performance, immunity, oxidative stress and hepatocyte apoptosis of blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) fed with high-fat diet. 320 fish (80.00 ± 0.90 g) were divided randomly into four trial groups (each with four replicates) and fed with 4 diets (normal diet, normal diet with 50 mg/kg berberine, high-fat diet, high-fat diet with 50 mg/kg berberine), respectively. At the end of the feeding trial, ammonia stress test was carried out for 5 days. The result showed the growth performance, immune parameters including plasm acid phosphatase (ACP) activities, lysozyme (LYZ) activities and alternative complement C3 and C4 contents were suppressed in fish fed with high-fat diets but improved in berberine diets compared with control (normal diet). Hepatopancreas oxidative status, the malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC) and lipid peroxide (LPO) were increased significantly (P < 0.05) when fish were fed with high-fat diets. Berberine could slow the progression of the oxidative stress induced by high-fat through increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and total sulfydryl (T-SH) levels of fish. And the hepatocyte apoptosis in the high-fat group could also be alleviated by berberine. After the ammonia stress test, the accumulative mortality was extremely (P < 0.05) low in fish fed high-fat diet with berberine compared to other groups. It was concluded berberine as a functional feed additive significantly inhibited the progression of oxidative stress, reduced the apoptosis and enhanced the immunity of fish fed with high-fat diet.