Therapeutic value of oral supplementation with melon superoxide dismutase and wheat gliadin combination

Correlation of the total superoxide dismutase activity between joint fluid and synovium in end-stage knee osteoarthritis

Recently, we found significantly reduced total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the cartilage of patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis (OA). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the SOD activity in serum, joint fluid, cartilage, and synovial membrane samples collected from 52 patients with end-stage knee OA who underwent total knee arthroplasty. The relationship between the total SOD activity in each tissue was evaluated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The joint fluid total SOD activity was used as the objective variable, and its association with the serum, cartilage, and synovial total SOD activities was evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis. Univariate analysis revealed that joint fluid total SOD activity was positively correlated with synovial total SOD activity. Multiple linear regression analysis using joint fluid total SOD activity as the objective variable showed a positive association with synovial total SOD activity (β = 0.493, adjusted R2 = 0.172, P < 0.01). In patients with end-stage knee OA, the state of the synovial total SOD activity is better reflected by the total SOD activity in the joint fluid than that in the cartilage. Joint fluid total SOD activity may serve as a biomarker for the treatment and prevention of synovitis.

Importance of Certain Varieties of Cucurbits in Enhancing Health: A Review

The Cucurbitaceae family is an extensive group of fruits and vegetables that exhibit common characteristics; for example, they are farmed on a global scale and exhibit a wide range of applications, including fresh consumption and use in various food and beverage products. As is frequent, many species or genera share a common name, and this can lead to some confusion when looking for information about a specific variety. In this review, we describe the findings about the biological activity, like antibacterial, antiviral, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties, of two genera of this family, Cucumis and Momordica, which have been characterized and evaluated in several research studies and regarding which information is readily accessible. Those activities rely on the various physicochemical qualities and nutritional content of each variety, including factors like β-carotene and polyphenols, among others. The goal of this review is to provide a rapid search for each activity examined in the literature, enabling future research on their potential uses in functional foods and nutraceutical supplements.

Superoxide dismutase secreting Bacillus amyloliquefaciens spores attenuate pulmonary fibrosis

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) can convert active oxygen to oxygen or hydrogen peroxide, and recent research has suggested that it can protect against lung damage and fibrosis. Clinical applications based on SOD remain limited however due to costs and low stability. We here investigated a potential new therapeutic delivery system for this enzyme in the form of SOD-overexpressing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens spores which we introduced into a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mouse model. This treatment significantly alleviated the disease, as quantified using a hydroxyproline assay, at 107 colony forming unit (CFU) of Bacillus spores per day. Exposure of the mice to the spores was further found to decrease the lung mRNA levels of CTGF, Col1a1, α-SMA, TGF-β, TNF-α, and IL-6, and the protein levels of TGF-β, Smad2/3, αSMA and Col1a1, all major indicators of pulmonary fibrosis. Survival benefits, and reduced byproducts of lipid peroxidase such as malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynen, were also noted in the treated animals. The beneficial effects of these Bacillus spores on pulmonary fibrosis were further found to be greater than the equivalent free SOD concentration. Immunofluorescence staining of primary pulmonary fibroblasts extracted from the bleomycin-induced model showed decreased αSMA expression following the in vivo treatment with SOD-overexpressing Bacillus. Our treatment approach SOD through Bacillus spores shows beneficial effects against pulmonary fibrosis, combined with the suppression of the SMAD/TGF-β pathway, suggesting that it is an effective novel delivery route for antioxidants.

Bacillus-Derived Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Relieves Ocular-Surface Inflammation and Damage by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Dry Eye

Purpose

We hypothesized that antioxidative enzymes supplementation could be a treatment option for dry eye. We investigated the efficacy of oral administration of Bacillus-derived superoxide dismutase (Bd-SOD) in a murine experimental dry eye (EDE).

Methods

In part I, mice were randomly assigned to normal control, EDE, and mice groups that were treated with oral Bd-SOD after induction of EDE (EDE + Bd-SOD group; four mice in each group). Expression of SOD2, a major antioxidant enzyme with manganese as a cofactor, was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. In part II, mice were divided into seven groups (six mice in each group): normal control, EDE, vehicle-treated, topical 0.05% cyclosporin A (CsA)-treated, and oral Bd-SOD-treated (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg Bd-SOD) groups. Tear volume, tear-film break-up time (TBUT), and corneal fluorescein-staining scores (CFS) were measured at zero, five, and 10 days after treatment. Ten days after treatment, 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate for reactive oxygen species (ROS), enzyme-linked immunosorbent for malondialdehyde, and TUNEL assays for corneal apoptosis, flow cytometry inflammatory T cells, and histological assessment were performed.

Results

Compared to the normal control group in part I, the EDE group showed significantly decreased SOD2 expression by immunofluorescence staining. However, the EDE + Bd-SOD group recovered similar to the normal control group. In part II, ROS, malondialdehyde, and corneal apoptosis were decreased in CsA and all Bd-SOD-treated groups. Corneal and conjunctival inflammatory T cells decreased, and conjunctival goblet cell density increased in CsA-treated and Bd-SOD-treated groups. Compared to the CsA-treated group, the 2.5 mg/kg Bd-SOD-treated group showed increased TBUT and decreased inflammatory T cells, and the 5.0 mg/kg Bd-SOD-treated group showed decreased CFS and increased conjunctival goblet cells.

Conclusions

Oral Bd-SOD administration might increase autogenous SOD2 expression in ocular surface tissue in EDE and could be developed as a complementary treatment for DE in the future.

A Supplement with Bromelain, Lentinula edodes, and Quercetin: Antioxidant Capacity and Effects on Morphofunctional and Fecal Parameters (Calprotectin, Cortisol, and Intestinal Fermentation Products) in Kennel Dogs

Oxidative stress causes several pathological conditions in humans and animals, including gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to analyze the antioxidant capacity of three natural powdered raw materials containing quercetin, bromelain, and Lentinula edodes and develop a new feed supplement for dogs using a combination of them. The total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and ABTS (2,2'-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt) of the extracts, either individually or in combination, were evaluated colorimetrically. The effects of this supplement on healthy adult dogs' nutritional, inflammatory, and stress status were evaluated. American Staffordshire Terrier adult female dogs (n = 30) were randomly assigned to a control (n = 15) or a treated (n = 15) group. The supplement was added as powder to the food of the treated dogs once daily for 28 days. There was no significant difference in the body weight and body condition scores between the initial and final phases of the experiment. At the end of our study, a significant decrease in fecal calprotectin, cortisol, indole/skatole, and N-methylhistamine and a significant increase in short-chain fatty acids were observed as compared to the control group. In conclusion, this natural feed supplement can be used to improve gastrointestinal health and psycho-physical conditions in dogs.

GliSODin® prevents airway inflammation by inhibiting T-cell differentiation and activation in a mouse model of asthma

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by a prevailing type 2 inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and mucus hypersecretion and is driven by various factors among which oxidative molecules, called reactive oxygen species (ROS), play a major role. Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are enzymes that constitute the first line of defense against ROS. Melon SOD-gliadin, which is known as GliSODin®, is commonly used as a nutritional supplement that has proven antioxidant properties.

Objectives

In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and mechanism of action GliSODin® in the treatment of allergic asthma.

Methods

House dust mite (HDM)-induced asthmatic mice were orally exposed to GliSODin®, and airway hyperresponsiveness, lung inflammation, in vitro T-cell polarization, in vivo T-cell reactivation, and blood immunoglobulin were investigated.

Results

GliSODin® reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, lung innate and adaptive immune response, and HDM-specific IgE production. Coculturing CD4+ T-cell with HDM-sensitized dendritic cells and GliSODin® reduced T-cell polarization into Th2 and Th17 cells. Moreover, adoptively transferred CD4+ T cells from asthmatic mice exhibited a reduced reactivation of Th2 and Th17 cells following stimulation with HDM plus GliSODin®.

Conclusion

GliSODin® abrogates asthma features and reduces CD4+ T-cell polarization and reactivation. Taken together, these data suggest that GliSODin® could be used for the management of asthma symptoms.

Recombinant Expression of Archaeal Superoxide Dismutases in Plant Cell Cultures: A Sustainable Solution with Potential Application in the Food Industry

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a fundamental antioxidant enzyme that neutralises superoxide ions, one of the main reactive oxygen species (ROS). Extremophile organisms possess enzymes that offer high stability and catalytic performances under a wide range of conditions, thus representing an exceptional source of biocatalysts useful for industrial processes. In this study, SODs from the thermo-halophilic Aeropyrum pernix (SOD_Ap) and the thermo-acidophilic Saccharolobus solfataricus (SOD_Ss) were heterologously expressed in transgenic tomato cell cultures. Cell extracts enriched with SOD_Ap and SOD_Ss showed a remarkable resistance to salt and low pHs, respectively, together with optimal activity at high temperatures. Moreover, the treatment of tuna fillets with SOD_Ap-extracts induced an extension of the shelf-life of this product without resorting to the use of illicit substances. The results suggested that the recombinant plant extracts enriched with the extremozymes could find potential applications as dietary supplements in the nutrition sector or as additives in the food preservation area, representing a more natural and appealing alternative to chemical preservatives for the market.

Comparison enteral superoxide dismutase 1 IU and 5 IU from Cucumis melo L.C extract combined with gliadin as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in LPS-Induced sepsis model rats

Sepsis is a major cause of death in intensive care units whose development is supported by an imbalance of oxidative stress and antioxidant. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a primer endogen antioxidant that prevents reactive oxygen species (ROS). Extensive studies on animals and humans have examined Cucumis melo L.C, a cantaloupe rich in SOD, and its combination with gliadin. The studies aimed to determine the effect of enteral administration of Cucumis melo L.C. gliadin (CME-gliadin) 28 days before inducing sepsis in rats. This experimental study aimed to compare four groups of male Wistar rats, including negative and positive control rats and those supplemented with SOD CME-gliadin 1 IU/day and SOD CME-gliadin 5 IU/day. All rats were given the same standard, except the supplementation for 28 days. Sepsis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of LPS 10 mg/kg. Enteral administration of SOD – gliadin extract of CME-gliadin for 28 days was used as antioxidant prophylaxis against oxidative stress due to sepsis. The results showed that enteral administration of CME-gliadin of 1 IU/day and 5 IU/day significantly increased SOD levels based on examination after 14 and 28 days. Also, it significantly decreased MDA (p < 0.001), TNF-α (p < 0.001), and lactate levels in rats induced by sepsis. However, the increase in lactate levels was above >1.64 mmol/l, indicating a high mortality rate. There was no significant difference in SOD, MDA, TNF-α, and Lactate levels between SOD 1 IU and SOD 5 IU. This descriptive data show that SOD 5 IU has a better result in MDA, TNF-α, and Lactate levels than SOD 1 IU.

Clinical Efficacy of Melon GliSODin® for the Treatment of Aging-Related Dysfunction in Motor Organs-A Double Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Locomotive syndrome is a concept proposed in Japan involving decreased mobility due to osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. This double-blind, randomized study aimed to investigate the effects of superoxide dismutase (SOD)-rich melon extract (Melon GliSODin®) on locomotive syndrome.

METHODS

For 6 months, we administered oral Melon GliSODin® (500.4 mg/day) or a placebo to 24 and 22 women, respectively (aged 50-80 years), with knee or lower back discomfort or pain. Using baseline and 6-month data, changes in the Verbal Rating Scale and in subjective symptoms (determined using the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure, Locomo 25, the Roland-Morris Disability questionnaire, and the Chalder Fatigue Scale) were assessed, along with various oxidative markers, antioxidants, inflammatory markers, renal and liver function biochemical markers, bone metabolism markers, body composition, and motor function.

RESULTS

Oral Melon GliSODin® administration tended to be associated with a larger improvement in subjective symptom scores, a reduction in oxidative markers (malondialdehyde and diacron reactive oxygen metabolites) and tumor necrosis factor-α, and a significant increase in non-fat mass between baseline and 6 months. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the groups for outcomes at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Melon GliSODin® tended to improve the subjective symptoms of participants who had knee or lower back pain or discomfort. Melon GliSODin® administration may help to prevent the progression of locomotive syndrome. Future studies involving larger sample sizes and more stringent randomization protocols are needed to determine differences between the placebo and Melon GliSODin® groups.

Production of a Novel Superoxide Dismutase by Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris and Analysis of the Thermal Stability of the Enzyme

Previously, a new copper-zinc SOD (CuZnSOD) isolated from chestnut rose (Rosa roxburghii) with good stability was described. In this study, the biosynthetic approach was used to create recombinant CuZnSOD. RACE PCR was also used to amplify the full-length CuZnSOD gene from chestnut rose, and the ORF segment was expressed in E. coli BL21 and P. pastoris GS115. For characterization, the enzyme was isolated in two steps in E. coli and one step in P. pastoris. The biochemical properties of the two recombinant enzymes were similar, and their optimal reaction pH and temperature were 6.0 and 50°C, respectively. According to molecular dynamics simulation, the CuZnSOD showed high stability from 70 to 90°C, and eight amino acids are important for enzyme thermal stability at high temperatures. This study set the stage for industrial manufacture by filling gaps in the link between conformational changes and the thermal stability of the new CuZnSOD.

Raw walnut kernel: A natural source for dietary proteases and bioactive proteins

Walnut kernels are health-promoting nuts, which are mainly attributed to polyunsaturated fatty acids, phenolics, and phytosterols. However, the information concerning benefits of walnut proteins are limited. In this study, endopeptidases, aminopeptidases, carboxypeptidases, superoxide dismutases, catalases, and phospholipases with respective relative abundance of 2.730, 1.728, 0.477, 3.148, 0.743, and 0.173‰ were identified by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. These endogenous proteases exhibited activity in a broad pH range of 2-6.5, and optimal at pH 4.5 and 50 °C. Aspartic endopeptidases were predominant endopeptidases, followed by cysteine ones. There were two types of aspartic endopeptidases, one (not inhibited by pepstatin A) exerted activity at pH 2-3 and the other (inhibited by pepstatin A) optimal at pH 4.5. Carboxypeptidases were optimal at pH 4.5, and aminopeptidases exerted activity at pH near 6.5. These endogenous proteases assisted the digestion of walnut proteins, and soaking, especially peeling, greatly improved the in vitro digestibility.

Protective role of a melon superoxide dismutase combined with gliadin (GliSODin) on the status of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense against azoxymethane-induced experimental colon carcinogenesis

Background

Azoxymethane (AOM) is a potent carcinogenic agent commonly used to induce colon cancer in rats and mice, with the cytotoxicity of AOM mediated by oxidative stress.

Aim of Study

This study investigated the protective effect of a natural antioxidant (GliSODin) against AOM-induced oxidative stress and carcinogenesis in rat colon.

Methods

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (five rats/group). The control group was fed a basal diet. AOM-treated group (AOM) was fed a basal diet and received intraperitoneal injections of AOM for 2 weeks at a dose of 15 mg/kg. The GliSODin treatment group (superoxide dismutase [SOD]) received oral supplementation of GliSODin (300 mg/kg) for 3 months, and the fourth combined group received AOM and GliSODin (AOM + SOD). All animals were continuously fed ad libitum until the age of 16 weeks when all rats were sacrificed. The colon tissues were examined microscopically for pathological changes and aberrant crypt foci (ACF) development, oxidant status (lipid peroxidation-LPO), and enzyme antioxidant system (glutathione [GSH], GSH-S-transferase, catalase, and SOD).

Results

Our results showed that AOM induced ACF development and oxidative stress (GSH depletion and lipid peroxidation) in rat colonic cells. The concomitant treatment of AOM with GliSODin significantly ameliorated the cytotoxic effects of AOM.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide in vivo evidence that GliSODin reduced the AOM-induced colon cancer in rats, through their potent antioxidant activities.

Superoxide dismutase as multipotent therapeutic antioxidant enzyme: Role in human diseases

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is consistently recognized as a threat to living organisms, especially for human beings. For proper working of cellular signaling, functioning, and survival, a strict and balanced level of ROS is necessary. Superoxide dismutase (SOD); a group of metalloenzymes provides an important antioxidant defense mechanism, required to preserve the level of ROS in the body. The enzyme reveals the therapeutic potential against various diseases due to a deficiency in the ROS level. The review illustrates the numerous clinical aspects of SOD in various physiological and pathological conditions such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative diseases, etc., with the mechanism of action. Despite limitations, the SOD enzyme has proved as a powerful tool against diseases, and various forms of conjugates and mimetics have been developed and reported to make it more efficient. Extensive studies need in this direction for use of natural SOD-based therapeutics for the prevention and cure of diseases.

Therapeutic potential of astaxanthin and superoxide dismutase in Alzheimer's disease

Oxidative stress, the imbalance of the antioxidant system, results in an accumulation of neurotoxic proteins in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The antioxidant system is composed of exogenous and endogenous antioxidants to maintain homeostasis. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an endogenous enzymatic antioxidant that converts superoxide ions to hydrogen peroxide in cells. SOD supplementation in mice prevented cognitive decline in stress-induced cells by reducing lipid peroxidation and maintaining neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Furthermore, SOD decreased expression of BACE1 while reducing plaque burden in the brain. Additionally, Astaxanthin (AST), a potent exogenous carotenoid, scavenges superoxide anion radicals. Mice treated with AST showed slower memory decline and decreased depositions of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau protein. Currently, the neuroprotective potential of these supplements has only been examined separately in studies. However, a single antioxidant cannot sufficiently resist oxidative damage to the brain, therefore, a combinatory approach is proposed as a relevant therapy for ameliorating pathological changes in AD.

Superoxide Dismutase Administration: A Review of Proposed Human Uses

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are metalloenzymes that play a major role in antioxidant defense against oxidative stress in the body. SOD supplementation may therefore trigger the endogenous antioxidant machinery for the neutralization of free-radical excess and be used in a variety of pathological settings. This paper aimed to provide an extensive review of the possible uses of SODs in a range of pathological settings, as well as describe the current pitfalls and the delivery strategies that are in development to solve bioavailability issues. We carried out a PubMed query, using the keywords "SOD", "SOD mimetics", "SOD supplementation", which included papers published in the English language, between 2012 and 2020, on the potential therapeutic applications of SODs, including detoxification strategies. As highlighted in this paper, it can be argued that the generic antioxidant effects of SODs are beneficial under all tested conditions, from ocular and cardiovascular diseases to neurodegenerative disorders and metabolic diseases, including diabetes and its complications and obesity. However, it must be underlined that clinical evidence for its efficacy is limited and consequently, this efficacy is currently far from being demonstrated.

Strategies to expand the therapeutic potential of superoxide dismutase by exploiting delivery approaches

The overproduction of free radicals can cause oxidative-stress damage to a range of biomolecules, and thus potentially contribute to several pathologies, from neurodegenerative disorders to cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), play an important role in diminishing oxidative stress. SOD supplementation could therefore be an effective preventive strategy to reduce the risk of free-radical overproduction. However, the efficacy of SOD administration is hampered by its rapid clearance. Several different approaches to improve the bioavailability of SOD have been explored in recent decades. This review intends to describe the rationale that underlie the various approaches and chemical strategies that have led to the most recent advances in SOD delivery. This critical description includes SOD conjugates, SOD loaded into particulate carriers (micelles, liposomes, nanoparticles, microparticles) and the most promising and suitable formulations for oral delivery, with a particular emphasis on reports of preclinical/clinical results. Likely future directions are also considered and reported.

Efficacy and Safety of the Combination of Superoxide Dismutase, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin B12, and Carnitine for 12 Months in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of Superoxide Dismutase, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl L-Carnitine, and Vitamin B12 (B12) in one tablet in Diabetic Neuropathy (DN). Patients–methods: In this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 85 patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 (DMT2) were randomly assigned, either to receive the combination of four elements (active group, n = 43), or placebo (n = 42) for 12 months. We used the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument Questionnaire and Examination (MNSIQ and MNSIE), measured the vibration perception threshold (BIO), and Cardiovascular Autonomic Reflex Tests (CARTs). Nerve function was assessed by DPN Check [sural nerve conduction velocity (SNCV) and amplitude (SNAP)]. Pain (PS) and quality of life (QL) questionnaires were administered. Results: At follow-up, BIO, MNSIQ, QL, PAIN, and SNCV, SNAP, and B12 levels had significantly improved inactive group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.027, p = 0.031, and p < 0.001 respectively), whereas the inplacebo group MCR (mean circular resultant) and PAIN deteriorated (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The changes in MNSIQ, QL, SNCV, BIO, and PAIN differed significantly between groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.031, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusions: The combination of the four elements in one tablet for 12 months in patients with DMT2 improved all indices of peripheral neuropathy, including SNAP and SNCV, pain, and Quality of Life perception, except CARTs and MNSIE.

Herbal Medicine from Single Clove Garlic Oil Extract Ameliorates Hepatic Steatosis and Oxidative Status in High Fat Diet Mice

Introduction

High fat diet (HFD) can cause lipid accumulation and contribute to various metabolic disorders. Single clove garlic oil (SCGO) has advantages over regular garlic due to its higher amounts of organosulfide compounds in particular. This study aimed to determine the ability of SCGO extract to ameliorate hepatic steatosis and improve oxidative status by modulating expression of tumour necrosis factor α and superoxide dismutase in mice fed a HFD.

Methods

Twenty-four adult male Balb/C mice were divided into six groups: i) normal diet; ii) positive control diet; iii) negative control diet; and iv) HFD with SCGO at 12.5 mg/kg body weight (mg/kg BW); v) HFD with SCGO at 25 mg/kg BW, vi) HFD with SCGO at 50 mg/kg BW. Liver weight and morphology, spleen weight, serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), TNF-α expression in the aorta and lipid profiles were assessed at the end of the experimental period.

Results

SCGO treatment was associated with significant decreases in liver and spleen weight as well as amelioration of hepatic steatosis. SCGO treatment also decreased TNF-α levels and expression. Serum levels of SOD in the SCGO groups were significantly increased compared with the negative control group. Lipid profiles were improved in the SCGO treatment groups compared with the negative control group.

Conclusion

SCGO as an herbal medicine could be an effective treatment for degenerative disorders caused by HFD.

Inhibition of the antioxidant activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase from Fusarium verticillioides exposed to a Jacquinia macrocarpa antifungal fraction

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of an antifungal fraction obtained from Jacquinia macrocarpa plant (JmAF) in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activity of the catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes from Fusarium verticillioides, as well as their influence in the viability of the fungus spores. The compounds present in the JmAF were determined by gas chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC/QTOF-MS). The effect of the exposition to JmAF on the generation of ROS, as well as in the CAT and SOD activities in F. verticillioides, was determined. The main compounds detected were γ-sitosterol, stephamiersine, betulinol and oleic acid. JmAF showed very high ability in inhibiting the spore viability of F. verticillioides, and their capacity to cause oxidative stress by induction of ROS production. JmAF induced the highest ROS concentration and also inhibited CAT and SOD activities. The results obtained in this study indicate that JmAF is worthy of being considered for the fight against phytopathogenic fungi.

Hepatotoxicity of Telfaria occidentalis root extracts on wistar albino rat

The present study investigates the toxicity of Telfaria occidentalis root extracted with different solvents. This was with a view to validating its widely acclaimed use as poison in traditional parlance. Air-dried powdered root of Telfaria occidentalis was extracted separately with distilled water, methanol and diethyl ether. Twenty albino rats were randomly placed into four groups of five animals per group: Group I served as the positive control and were administered distilled water only while groups II, III and IV animals were administered 50 mg/kg body weight of aqueous, methanolic and diethyl ether extracts respectively for two weeks. Activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), superoxide dismutase and catalase were assayed in the liver homogenate and serum. Levels of total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol as well as lipid peroxidation were also measured in the liver and serum of animals. Results showed that the level of AST, ALT, ALP as well as LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol in the serum of group IV animals increased significantly relative to the control group. Antioxidant enzyme biomarkers such as catalase and superoxide dismutase as well as lipid peroxidation were significantly increased in the serum of group IV animals relative to the control. The study concluded that toxicity of root extract of Telfaria occidentalis is solvent-dependent.

Dietary Supplementation With a Bacillus Superoxide Dismutase Protects Against γ-Radiation-induced Oxidative Stress and Ameliorates Dextran Sulphate Sodium-induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Commercial superoxide dismutase [SOD] is derived from melon extract and has a potential as a dietary supplement due to its beneficial antioxidative effects. We aimed to improve the productivity of SOD compared with plant SOD by using a generally regarded as safe [GRAS] microorganism, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and assess its antioxidative effect using γ-radiation- and dextransulphate sodium [DSS]-induced oxidative models in mice.

METHODS

We identified the sodA gene encoding manganese-containing SODs [Mn-SOD] in B. amyloliquefaciens, constructed a Mn-SOD deficient mutant, and screened a high-SOD-producing strain. We compared the antioxidative effect of orally administered enteric-coated SOD protein partially purified from B. amyloliquefaciens with wild-type and high-SOD-producing strain spores. The effect of SOD on DSS-induced colitis was also investigated. Colonic inflammation was assessed using disease activity index, macroscopic and histological damage scores, antioxidant enzyme activities, and inflammatory cytokines.

RESULTS

The SOD activity of B. amyloliquefaciens is derived from secreted Mn-SOD encoded by the sodA gene, as shown by comparing sodA knock-out mutant spores with wild-type and high-SOD-producing spores. Enteric-coated SOD of B. amyloliquefaciens appears to be effective in reducing oxidative stress in γ-radiation- and DSS-induced mouse models. Co-administration of SOD with wild-type B. amyloliquefaciens or high-SOD-producer strain spores showed a synergistic effect. SOD enzyme and B. amyloliquefaciens spores contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory response in DSS-induced colitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Mn-SOD of B. amyloliquefaciens could be another source of SOD supplement and may be useful to prevent and treat ulcerative colitis.

S-Adenosylmethionine and Superoxide Dismutase 1 Synergistically Counteract Alzheimer's Disease Features Progression in TgCRND8 Mice

Recent evidence emphasizes the role of dysregulated one-carbon metabolism in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Exploiting a nutritional B-vitamin deficiency paradigm, we have previously shown that PSEN1 and BACE1 activity is modulated by one-carbon metabolism, leading to increased amyloid production. We have also demonstrated that S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) supplementation contrasted the AD-like features, induced by B-vitamin deficiency. In the present study, we expanded these observations by investigating the effects of SAM and SOD (Superoxide dismutase) association. TgCRND8 AD mice were fed either with a control or B-vitamin deficient diet, with or without oral supplementation of SAM + SOD. We measured oxidative stress by lipid peroxidation assay, PSEN1 and BACE1 expression by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), amyloid deposition by ELISA assays and immunohistochemistry. We found that SAM + SOD supplementation prevents the exacerbation of AD-like features induced by B vitamin deficiency, showing synergistic effects compared to either SAM or SOD alone. SAM + SOD supplementation also contrasts the amyloid deposition typically observed in TgCRND8 mice. Although the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effect of exogenous SOD remain to be elucidated, our findings identify that the combination of SAM + SOD could be carefully considered as co-adjuvant of current AD therapies.