N-acetylcysteine treatment blunts liver failure-associated impairment of locomotor activity

Pesticide-Induced Alterations in Locomotor Activity, Anxiety, and Depression-like Behavior Are Mediated through Oxidative Stress-Related Autophagy: A Persistent Developmental Study in Mice

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), dichlorvos (DDV), and cypermethrin (CP), as commonly used pesticides, have been implicated in inducing neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression-like behaviors, and locomotor activity impairment. However, the exact molecular mechanisms of these adverse effects, particularly in both sexes and their next-generation effects, remain unclear. In this study, we conducted behavioral analysis, along with cellular assays (monodansylcadaverine staining) and molecular investigations (qRT-PCR and western blotting of mTOR, P62, and Beclin-1) to clear the potential role of autophagy in pesticide-induced behavioral alterations. For this purpose, 42 adult female and 21 male inbred ICR mice (F0) were distributed into seven groups. Maternal mice (F0) and 112 F1 offspring were exposed to 0.5 and 1 ppm of CPF, DDV, and CP through drinking water. F1 male and female animals were studied to assess the sex-specific effects of pesticides on brain tissue. Our findings revealed pronounced anxiogenic effects and impaired locomotor activity in mice. F1 males exposed to CPF (1 ppm) exhibited significantly elevated depression-like behaviors compared to other groups. Moreover, pesticide exposure reduced mTOR and P62 levels, while enhancing the Beclin-1 gene and protein expression. These changes in autophagy signaling pathways, coupled with oxidative and neurogenic damage in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, potentially contribute to heightened locomotor activity, anxiety, and depression-like behaviors following pesticide exposure. This study underscores the substantial impact of pesticides on both physiological and behavioral aspects, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive assessments and regulatory considerations for pesticide use. Additionally, the identification of sex-specific responses presents a crucial dimension for pharmaceutical sciences, highlighting the need for tailored therapeutic interventions and further research in this field.

Pre/postnatal taurine supplementation improves neurodevelopment and brain function in mice offspring: A persistent developmental study from puberty to maturity

Taurine (TAU) is a sulfur-containing amino acid abundantly found in the human body. Endogenously, TAU is synthesized from cysteine in the liver. However, newborns rely entirely on TAU's dietary supply (milk). There is no investigation on the effect of long-term TAU administration on next-generation neurological development. The current study evaluated the effect of long-term TAU supplementation during the maternal gestational and litter weaning time on several neurological parameters in mice offspring. Moreover, the effects of TAU on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress biomarkers as plausible mechanisms of its action in the whole brain and hippocampus have been evaluated. TAU (0.5 % and 1 % w/v) was dissolved in the drinking water of pregnant mice (Day one of pregnancy), and amino acid supplementation was continued during the weaning time (post-natal day; PND = 21) until litters maturity (PND = 65). It was found that TAU significantly improved cognitive function, memory performance, reflexive motor activity, and emotional behaviors in F1-mice generation. TAU measurement in the brain and hippocampus revealed higher levels of this amino acid. TAU and ATP levels were also significantly higher in the mitochondria isolated from the whole brain and hippocampus. Based on these data, TAU could be suggested as a supplement during pregnancy or in pediatric formula. The effects of TAU on cellular mitochondrial function and energy metabolism might play a fundamental role in the positive effects of this amino acid observed in this investigation.

Veronica persica ameliorates acetaminophen-induced murine hepatotoxicity via attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation

Excess acetaminophen (APAP) commonly causes severe acute liver injury (ALI), characterized by oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory responses, and hepatocyte damage. Veronica persica (VP) is a traditional medicine with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. There is a paucity of information on its medicinal value, especially its potential mechanisms for alleviating ALI. This study aimed to clarify the ameliorative effects and intracellular mechanisms of VP on APAP-induced ALI via attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation. Mice were given VP for 7 days before exposure to APAP (300 mg/kg). The HPLC and radical scavenging assay found that VP contains 12 phenolic acids and 6 flavonoids, as well as show robust antioxidant capacity. In the APAP-induced ALI model, pre-treatment with VP significantly reduces APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by observing improved hepatocyte pathological injury and further confirmed by serum biochemical indicator. Also, the reduction of TUNEL-positive regions and the regulation of Bcl-2-associated X protein indicated that VP attenuates hepatocytotoxicity. Moreover, VP pre-intervention inhibits the formation of liver pro-inflammatory cytokines, the expression of inflammatory response genes, and increases in myeloperoxidase (MPO) in APAP-exposed mice. The elevated reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and decreased oxidative stress markers indicate that VP reduces APAP-promoted oxidative stress. Further study revealed that VP inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB/STAT3 cascade, blocked ERK and JNK phosphorylation, and activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). To sum up, this study demonstrated that VP exists hepatoprotective abilities on APAP-induced ALI, primarily by suppressing the phosphorylation of NF-κB/STAT3 cascade and ERK-JNK and inducing AMPK activation to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation.

Low-dose ketamine improves animals' locomotor activity and decreases brain oxidative stress and inflammation in ammonia-induced neurotoxicity

Ammonium ion (NH4 + ) is the major suspected molecule responsible for neurological complications of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). No specific pharmacological action for NH4 + -induced brain injury exists so far. Excitotoxicity is a well-known phenomenon in the brain of hyperammonemic cases. The hyperactivation of the N-Methyl- d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors by agents such as glutamate, an NH4 + metabolite, could cause excitotoxicity. Excitotoxicity is connected with events such as oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Hence, utilizing NMDA receptor antagonists could prevent neurological complications of NH4 + neurotoxicity. In the current study, C57BL6/J mice received acetaminophen (APAP; 800 mg/kg, i.p) to induce HE. Hyperammonemic animals were treated with ketamine (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg, s.c) as an NMDA receptor antagonist. Animals' brain and plasma levels of NH4 + were dramatically high, and animals' locomotor activities were disturbed. Moreover, several markers of oxidative stress were significantly increased in the brain. A significant increase in brain tissue levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β was also detected in hyperammonemic animals. It was found that ketamine significantly normalized animals' locomotor activity, improved biomarkers of oxidative stress, and decreased proinflammatory cytokines. The effects of ketamine on oxidative stress biomarkers and inflammation seem to play a key role in its neuroprotective mechanisms in the current study.

Hepatic encephalopathy complications are diminished by piracetam via the interaction between mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and locomotor activity

Background

of the study: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complication in which brain ammonia (NH4+) levels reach critically high concentrations because of liver failure. HE could lead to a range of neurological complications from locomotor and behavioral disturbances to coma. Several tactics have been established for subsiding blood and brain NH4+. However, there is no precise intervention to mitigate the direct neurological complications of NH4+.

Purpose

It has been found that oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and neuro-inflammation play a fundamental role in NH4+ neurotoxicity. Piracetam is a drug used clinically in neurological complications such as stroke and head trauma. Piracetam could significantly diminish oxidative stress and improve brain mitochondrial function.

Research methods

In the current study, piracetam (100 and 500 mg/kg, oral) was used in a mice model of HE induced by thioacetamide (TA, 800 mg/kg, single dose, i.p).

Results

Significant disturbances in animals' locomotor activity, along with increased oxidative stress biomarkers, including reactive oxygen species formation, protein carbonylation, lipid peroxidation, depleted tissue glutathione, and decreased antioxidant capacity, were evident in the brain of TA-treated mice. Meanwhile, mitochondrial permeabilization, mitochondrial depolarization, suppression of dehydrogenases activity, and decreased ATP levels were found in the brain of the TA group. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines was also significantly high in the brain of HE animals.

Conclusion

It was found that piracetam significantly enhanced mice's locomotor activity, blunted oxidative stress biomarkers, decreased inflammatory cytokines, and improved mitochondrial indices in hyperammonemic mice. These data suggest piracetam as a neuroprotective agent which could be repurposed for the management of HE.

Pulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in a mouse model of cholestasis: the potential protective properties of the dipeptide carnosine

Cholestasis is a clinical complication that primarily influences the liver. However, it is well known that many other organs could be affected by cholestasis. Lung tissue is a major organ influenced during cholestasis. Cholestasis-induced lung injury could induce severe complications such as respiratory distress, serious pulmonary infections, and tissue fibrosis. Unfortunately, there is no specific pharmacological intervention against this complication. Several studies revealed that oxidative stress and inflammatory response play a role in cholestasis-induced lung injury. Carnosine (CARN) is a dipeptide found at high concentrations in different tissues of humans. CARN's antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties are repeatedly mentioned in various experimental models. This study aimed to assess the role of CARN on cholestasis-induced lung injury. Rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce cholestasis. Broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) levels of inflammatory cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and immunoglobulin were monitored at scheduled intervals (7, 14, and 28 days after BDL). Moreover, lung tissue histopathological alterations and biomarkers of oxidative stress were evaluated. A significant increase in BALF inflammatory cells, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and immunoglobulin-G (IgG) was detected in the BALF of BDL rats. Moreover, lung tissue histopathological changes, collagen deposition, increased TGF-β, and elevated levels of oxidative stress biomarkers were evident in cholestatic animals. It was found that CARN (100 and 500 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly alleviated lung oxidative stress biomarkers, inflammatory response, tissue fibrosis, and histopathological alterations. These data indicate the potential protective properties of CARN in the management of cholestasis-induced pulmonary damage. The effects of CARN on inflammatory response and oxidative stress biomarkers seems to play a crucial role in its protective properties in the lung of cholestatic animals.

Glycine protects the male reproductive system against lead toxicity via alleviating oxidative stress, preventing sperm mitochondrial impairment, improving kinematics of sperm, and blunting the downregulation of enzymes involved in the steroidogenesis

Lead (Pb) is a highly toxic heavy metal widely dispersed in the environment because of human industrial activities. Many studies revealed that Pb could adversely affect several organs, including the male reproductive system. Pb-induced reproductive toxicity could lead to infertility. Thus, finding safe and clinically applicable protective agents against this complication is important. It has been found that oxidative stress plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of Pb-induced reprotoxicity. Glycine is the simplest amino acid with a wide range of pharmacological activities. It has been found that glycine could attenuate oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment in various experimental models. The current study was designed to evaluate the role of glycine in Pb-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice. Male BALB/c mice received Pb (20 mg/kg/day; gavage; 35 consecutive days) and treated with glycine (250 and 500 mg/kg/day; gavage; 35 consecutive days). Then, reproductive system weight indices, biomarkers of oxidative stress in the testis and isolated sperm, sperm kinetic, sperm mitochondrial indices, and testis histopathological alterations were monitored. A significant change in testis, epididymis, and Vas deferens weight was evident in Pb-treated animals. Markers of oxidative stress were also significantly increased in the testis and isolated sperm of the Pb-treated group. A significant disruption in sperm kinetic was also evident when mice received Pb. Moreover, Pb exposure caused significant deterioration in sperm mitochondrial indices. Tubular injury, tubular desquamation, and decreased spermatogenic index were histopathological alterations detected in Pb-treated mice. It was found that glycine significantly blunted oxidative stress markers in testis and sperm, improved sperm mitochondrial parameters, causing considerable higher velocity-related indices (VSL, VCL, and VAP) and percentages of progressively motile sperm, and decreased testis histopathological changes in Pb-exposed animals. These data suggest glycine as a potential protective agent against Pb-induced reproductive toxicity. The effects of glycine on oxidative stress markers and mitochondrial function play a key role in its protective mechanism.

Taurine mitigates the development of pulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, and histopathological alterations in a rat model of bile duct ligation

Lung injury is a significant complication associated with cholestasis/cirrhosis. This problem significantly increases the risk of cirrhosis-related morbidity and mortality. Hence, finding effective therapeutic options in this field has significant clinical value. Severe inflammation and oxidative stress are involved in the mechanism of cirrhosis-induced lung injury. Taurine (TAU) is an abundant amino acid with substantial anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. The current study was designed to evaluate the role of TAU in cholestasis-related lung injury. For this purpose, bile duct ligated (BDL) rats were treated with TAU (0.5 and 1% w: v in drinking water). Significant increases in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) level of inflammatory cells (lymphocytes, neutrophils, basophils, monocytes, and eosinophils), increased IgG, and TNF-α were detected in the BDL animals (14 and 28 days after the BDL surgery). Alveolar congestion, hemorrhage, and fibrosis were the dominant pulmonary histopathological changes in the BDL group. Significant increases in the pulmonary tissue biomarkers of oxidative stress, including reactive oxygen species formation, lipid peroxidation, increased oxidized glutathione levels, and decreased reduced glutathione, were also detected in the BDL rats. Moreover, significant myeloperoxidase activity and nitric oxide levels were seen in the lung of BDL rats. It was found that TAU significantly blunted inflammation, alleviated oxidative stress, and mitigated lung histopathological changes in BDL animals. These data suggest TAU as a potential protective agent against cholestasis/cirrhosis-related lung injury.

Galium aparine L. protects against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The toxicity of acetaminophen (N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (APAP)) is the most frequent cause of drug-induced liver damage. Galium aparine L. (GA) is traditionally used to treat jaundice. We aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective potential of GA in the APAP-induced hepatic encephalopathy (HE) rat model. Qualitative phytochemical characterization of GA was performed by LC/Q-TOF/MS analysis. Wistar rats were pretreated with GA (250 and 500 mg/kg b.wt. per oral) for five days. On the 6th day, the rats were exposed to APAP (1500 mg/kg b.wt. oral gavage) and behavioral tests (open field and passive avoidance tests) were applied on the 7th and 8th days. The animals were killed, and biochemical and histopathological parameters were assessed in blood and hepatic specimens. GA pretreated rats exhibited a significant reduction in APAP-induced liver damage, evidenced by the reduction in liver necrosis and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin (BIL). GA demonstrated an anxiolytic effect, as seen in the acquisition trial and grooming behavior. The short-term memory performances of animals were not changed in all groups, suggesting that APAP intoxication did not affect hippocampal function. These results show that GA extract markedly exerts hepatoprotective activity, while its effect on hepatic encephalopathy was limited.

A review of basic to clinical studies of the association between hyperammonemia, methamphetamine

Methamphetamine (METH), an addictive psychostimulant drug, is the second most widely used type of drug all around the world. METH abusers are more likely to develop a psycho-neurological complication. Hyperammonemia (HAM) causes neuropsychiatric illnesses such as mental state changes and episodes of acute encephalopathy. Recently, there are some shreds of evidence about the relationship between METH complication and HAM. Both METH intoxication and HAM could induce psychosis, agitation, memory impairment, and psycho-neuronal disorders. They also have similar mechanisms of neuronal damages, such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairments, and inflammation responses, which can subsequently increase the glutamate level of the brain. Hence, the basic to clinical studies of the association between HAM and METH are reviewed by monitoring six case studies and a good body of animal studies literature. All instances of METH-associated HAM had changes in mental state and some level of confusion that were improved when the ammonia serum level returned to the normal level. Furthermore, most of them had typical vital signs. Several studies suggested some sources for METH-associated HAM, including METH-induced liver and renal damages, muscular hyperactivity, gut bacterial overgrowth, co-abuse of other substances, and using some forms of NH3 in METH cooking. In conclusion, it seems that mental status changes in METH abusers may be related to ammonia intoxication or HAM; therefore, it is important to assess the serum level of ammonia in METH intoxicated patients and resolve it.

The crucial role of oxidative stress in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-induced male reproductive toxicity: the ameliorative effects of Iranian indigenous probiotics

Several studies have focused on the high potential effects of probiotics on the reproductive system. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the ameliorative intracellular roles of indigenous Iranian yogurt-extracted/cultured probiotics on animals' reproductive health suffering from obesity and/or fatty liver disease, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). For this purpose, simultaneously with the consumption of D-fructose (200 g/1000 mL water, induction of NAFLD model), all pubertal animals were also gavaged every day for 63 consecutive days with extracted probiotics, including 1 × 109 CFU/mL of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA), Bifidobacterium spp. (BIF), Bacillus coagulans (BC), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LR), and a mixture form (LA + BIF + BC + LR). At the end of the ninth week, the indices of epididymal sperm, and oxidative stress, as well as histopathological changes, were assessed. The results show that NAFLD could induce robust oxidative stress, highlighted as considerable increments in ROS level, TBARS content, total oxidized protein levels, along with severe decrements in reduced glutathione reservoirs, total antioxidant capacity in the hepatic and testicular tissues, as well as testicular and hepatic histopathological alterations. Moreover, a significant decrease in the percentage of sperm progressive motility, sperm count, and membrane integrity along with an increment in the percentage of sperm abnormality was detected in NAFLD animals. The observed adverse effects were significantly reversed upon probiotics treatment, especially in the group challenged with a mixture of all probiotics. Taken together, these findings indicate that the indigenous yogurt-isolated/cultured probiotics had a high potential antioxidant activity and the ameliorative effect against reprotoxicity and blood biochemical alterations induced by the NAFLD model. Highlights: 1. Reproductive indices could be reversely affected by xenobiotics and diseases. 2. NAFLD and cholestasis considerably affect the reproductive system in both genders. 3. NAFLD induced hepatic and testicular oxidative stress (OS). 4. NAFLD induced histopathological alterations and spermatotoxicity through OS. 5. The adverse effects were significantly reversed upon exposure to probiotics.

Effects of Pentoxifylline in a Rat Model of Manganism: Evaluation of the Possible Toxicity

Objective. Manganese (Mn) has been reported, through dietary and occupational overexposure, to induce neurotoxicity named manganism. Pentoxifylline (PTX) administration attracts much attention considering the beneficial properties of PTX, as an anti-inflammatory and smooth muscle relaxation agent. This in vivo study aims to evaluate the effect of PTX on manganism in rat model. Materials and Methods. Thirty adult male Sprague Dawley rats received MnCl2 (100 mg/kg, i.p. on days 1, 3, and 7) during a week alone or in combination with PTX (300 mg/kg, i.p. every day for 8 consecutive days on manganism rat model). Several locomotor activity indices, as well as biomarkers of oxidative stress, were monitored in the brain tissue of Mn-exposed animals. Results. It was found that PTX supplementation (300 mg/kg, i.p.) deteriorated the Mn-induced locomotor deficit. This drug also increased the Mn brain accumulation as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation products in the manganism rat model. Moreover, the levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione (GSH) were shown to be reduced significantly compared to the control group. Conclusion. The results of this study revealed that PTX at a high dose (300 mg/kg) might increase manganism complications. PTX lowers the blood viscosity, improves the tissue perfusion, and increases the Mn levels in the brain.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are involved in the mechanism of tramadol-induced renal injury

Tramadol (TMDL) is an opioid analgesic widely administered for the management of moderate to severe pain. On the other hand, TMDL is commonly abused in many countries because of its availability and cheap cost. Renal injury is related to high dose or chronic administration of TMDL. No precise mechanism for TMDL-induced renal damage has been identified so far. The current study aimed to evaluate the potential role of oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment in the pathogenesis of TMDL-induced renal injury. For this purpose, rats were treated with TMDL (40 and 80 ​mg/kg, i.p, 28 consecutive days). A significant increase in serum Cr and BUN was detected in TMDL groups. On the other hand, TMDL (80 ​mg/kg) caused a substantial increase in urine glucose, ALP, protein, and γ-GT levels. Moreover, urine Cr was significantly decreased in TMDL-treated rats (40 and 80 ​mg/kg). Renal histopathological alterations included inflammation, necrosis, and tubular degeneration in the kidney of TMDL-treated animals. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, increased oxidized glutathione (GSSG), lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonylation was increased, whereas total antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione levels were considerably decreased in TMDL groups. Significant mitochondrial impairment was also detected in the form of mitochondrial depolarization, adenosine-tri-phosphate (ATP) depletion, mitochondrial permeabilization, lipid peroxidation, and decreased mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity in the kidney of TMDL (80 ​mg/kg)-treated animals. These data suggest mitochondrial impairment and oxidative stress as mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of TMDL-induced renal injury.

The Role of Mitochondrial Impairment and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Lithium-Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Mice

Lithium (Li+) is prescribed against a wide range of neurological disorders. Besides its excellent therapeutic properties, there are several adverse effects associated with Li+. The impact of Li+ on renal function and diabetes insipidus is the most common adverse effect of this drug. On the other hand, infertility and decreased libido is another complication associated with Li+. It has been found that sperm indices of functionality, as well as libido, is significantly reduced in Li+-treated men. These adverse effects might lead to drug incompliance and the cessation of drug therapy. Hence, the main aims of the current study were to illustrate the mechanisms of adverse effects of Li+ on the testis tissue, spermatogenesis process, and hormonal changes in two experimental models. In the in vitro experiments, Leydig cells (LCs) were isolated from healthy mice, cultured, and exposed to increasing concentrations of Li+ (0, 10, 50, and 100 ppm). In the in vivo section of the current study, mice were treated with Li+ (0, 10, 50, and 100 ppm, in drinking water) for five consecutive weeks. Testis and sperm samples were collected and assessed. A significant sign of cytotoxicity (LDH release and MTT assay), along with disrupted testosterone biosynthesis, impaired mitochondrial indices (ATP level and mitochondrial depolarization), and increased biomarkers of oxidative stress were detected in LCs exposed to Li+. On the other hand, a significant increase in serum and testis Li+ levels were detected in drug-treated mice. Moreover, ROS formation, LPO, protein carbonylation, and increased oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were detected in both testis tissue and sperm specimens of Li+-treated mice. Several sperm anomalies were also detected in Li+-treated animals. On the other hand, sperm mitochondrial indices (mitochondrial dehydrogenases activity and ATP levels) were significantly decreased in drug-treated groups where mitochondrial depolarization was increased dose-dependently. Altogether, these data mention oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment as pivotal mechanisms involved in Li+-induced reproductive toxicity. Therefore, based on our previous publications in this area, therapeutic options, including compounds with high antioxidant properties that target these points might find a clinical value in ameliorating Li+-induced adverse effects on the male reproductive system.

N-acetyl cysteine treatment mitigates biomarkers of oxidative stress in different tissues of bile duct ligated rats

Cholestasis is a multifaceted clinical complication. Obstructive jaundice induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) is known as an animal model to investigate cholestasis and its associated complications. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant, radical scavenger, and thiol reductant widely investigated for its cytoprotective properties. The current investigation was designed to evaluate the role of NAC treatment on biomarkers of oxidative stress and organ histopathological alterations in a rat model of cholestasis/cirrhosis. BDL animals were supplemented with NAC (100 and 300 mg/kg, i.p, 42 consecutive days). Biomarkers of oxidative stress in the liver, brain, heart, skeletal muscle, lung, serum, and kidney tissue, as well as organ histopathological changes, were monitored. A significant increase in reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonylation were detected in different tissues of BDL rats. Moreover, tissue antioxidant capacity was hampered, glutathione (GSH) reservoirs were depleted, and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels were significantly increased in the BDL group. Significant tissue histopathological alterations were evident in cirrhotic animals. It was found that NAC treatment (100 and 300 mg/kg, i.p) significantly mitigated biomarkers of oxidative stress and alleviated tissue histopathological changes in cirrhotic rats. These data represent NAC as a potential protective agent with therapeutic capability in cirrhosis and its associated complications.HIGHLIGHTSCholestasis is a multifaceted clinical complication that affects different organsOxidative stress plays a pivotal role in cholestasis-associated complicationsTissue antioxidant capacity is hampered in different tissues of cholestatic animalsAntioxidant therapy might play a role in the management of cholestasis-induced organ injuryNAC alleviated biomarkers of oxidative stress in cholestatic animalsNAC significantly improved tissues histopathological alterations in cholestatic rats.

Spermatotoxic Effects of Single-Walled and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Male Mice

Carbon-based nanomaterials possess a remarkably high potential for biomedical applications due to their physical properties; however, their detrimental effects on reproduction are also concerned. Several reports indicate the toxicity of carbon nanotubes (CNT); nevertheless, their impact on intracellular organelles in the male reproductive organs has not been fully elucidated. Herein, we report on the reprotoxicity of single-walled (SWCNT) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCN) on several intracellular events and histological criteria in pubertal male BALB/c mice orally treated with 0, 10, and 50 mg/kg/day doses for 5 weeks. Biomarkers of oxidative stress and mitochondrial functionality, histopathological alterations, and epididymal sperm characteristics were determined. Oral administration of CNTs at 10 and 50 mg/kg evoked a significant decrement in weight coefficient, sperm viability and motility, hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test, sperm count, mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity, ATP content, total antioxidant capacity, and GSH/GSSH ratio in the testis and epididymal spermatozoa. On the other hand, percent abnormal sperm, testicular and sperm TBARS contents, protein carbonylation, ROS formation, oxidized glutathione level, and sperm mitochondrial depolarization were considerably increased. Significant histopathological and stereological alterations in the testis occurred in the groups challenged with CNTs. The current findings indicated that oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment might substantially impact CNTs-induced reproductive system injury and sperm toxicity. The results can also be used to establish environmental standards for CNT consumption by mammals, produce new chemicals for controlling the rodent populations, and develop therapeutic approaches against CNTs-associated reproductive anomalies in the males exposed daily to these nanoparticles.

In vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Succinic Acid-Substituted Mesoporous Silica for Ammonia Adsorption: Potential Application in the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy

Purpose

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a critical situation in which liver failure affects brain function. HE could result in a state of coma and death. The liver is the main organ for ammonium ion (NH₄ ⁺) metabolism. Hence, acute and/or chronic liver failure could lead to hyperammonemia. NH₄ ⁺ is the most suspected neurotoxic agent in HE. Thus, finding new therapeutic options to decrease plasma and brain NH₄ ⁺ levels has a significant clinical value. Mesoporous silica (MS) particles have revolutionized many aspects of pharmaceutical sciences, including drug delivery systems. Moreover, recently, MS has been applied as agents for the detoxification of chemicals (eg, drugs and poisons).

Methods

First, MS particles containing amine groups (MS-NH₂) were synthesized in co-condensation processes. Then, the structure was modified by succinic anhydride to have MS-SA. The MS-SA was characterized (FT-IR, XRD, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), DLS-Zeta FESEM-EDX, and HRTEM). Then, the potential of MS-NH₂ and MS-SA particles in adsorption of NH₄ ⁺ was investigated in vitro and in vivo. MS-NH₂ and MS-SA were incubated with increasing concentrations (0.1-10 mM) of NH₄ ⁺, and the scavenging capacity of the investigated particles was evaluated. On the other hand, different doses (1 and 5 mg/kg per day) of nanoparticles were administered to a hyperammonemia animal model.

Results

It was figured out that both MS-NH₂ and MS-SA significantly scavenged NH₄ ⁺ in the in vitro model. However, the NH₄ ⁺ scavenging capability of MS-SA was more significant. Administration of MS-NH₂ and MS-SA also considerably decreased the level of ammonium in plasma and brain and improved cognitive and locomotor activity in hyperammonemic animals. The effects of MS-SA were more significant than MS-NH₂ in the HE animal model.

Conclusion

Collectively, our data suggest that MS particles, especially succinic acid-functionalized MS, could act as special ancillary treatment in HE as a critical clinical complication.

The Potential Neuroprotective Role of Citicoline in Hepatic Encephalopathy

Purpose

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is described as impaired brain function induced by liver failure. Ammonia is the most suspected chemical involved in brain injury during HE. Although the precise mechanism of HE is not clear, several studies mentioned the role of oxidative stress in ammonia neurotoxicity. In animal models, the use of some compounds with antioxidant properties was reported to reduce the neurotoxic effects of ammonia, improve energy metabolism, and ameliorate the HE symptoms. Citicoline is a principal intermediate in the biosynthesis pathway of phosphatidylcholine that acts as neurovascular protection and repair effects. Various studies mentioned the neuroprotective and antioxidative effects of citicoline in the central nervous system. This study aims to investigate the potential protective effects of citicoline therapeutic in an animal model of HE.

Materials and Methods

Mice received acetaminophen (APAP,1g/kg, i. p.) and then treated with citicoline (500 mg/kg, i.p) one and two hours after APAP. Animals were monitored for locomotor activity and blood and brain ammonia levels. Moreover, markers of oxidative stress were assessed in the brain tissue.

Results

The result of the study revealed that plasma and brain ammonia and the liver injury markers increased, and locomotor activity impaired in the APAP-treated animals. Besides, an increase in markers of oxidative stress was evident in the brain of the APAP-treated mice. It was found that citicoline supplementation enhanced the animal’s locomotor activity and improved brain tissue markers of oxidative stress.

Conclusion

These data propose citicoline as a potential protective agent in HE. The effects of citicoline on oxidative stress markers could play a fundamental role in its neuroprotective properties during HE.

The mechanisms of arsenic-induced ovotoxicity, ultrastructural alterations, and autophagic related paths: An enduring developmental study in folliculogenesis of mice

Arsenic (As) exerts a wide range of adverse effects on biological systems, including the reproductive organs in males and females. However, the mechanisms of As-induced reproductive toxicity are mostly obscure. Recently, we showed that autophagy is an essential route for As₂O₃-induced reprotoxicity through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal-sperm (HPG-S) axis in pubertal and matured F1-male mice. However, the role of autophagy in As₂O₃- induced ovarian toxicity is mostly unknown. Hence, this study aimed to elucidate the role of oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, and autophagic processes in the ovary of As-exposed female mice. For this purpose, mature female mice were challenged with 0, low (0.2), medium (2), and high (20 ppm) As₂O₃ from 35-days before mating till weaning their pups, and the F1- females from weaning until maturity. Then, all the mice were sacrificed, and oxidative stress parameters, mitochondrial indices, electron microscopic evaluation of the ovaries, expression of autophagic-related genes and proteins, and autophagosome formation were assessed. It was shown that medium and high As₂O₃ doses were a potent inducer of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and autophagy in the ovary of F1-generation. A dose-dependent increment in the gene expression of PDK₁, PI3K, TSC2, AMPK, ULK1, ATG13, Beclin1, ATG12, ATG5, LC3, P62, ATG3, ATG7, and p62, as well as protein expression of Beclin1, and LC3- I, II, was evident in the ovaries of the As-treated animals. Moreover, a dose-dependent decrease in the expression of mTOR and Bcl-2 genes, and mTOR protein was detected with increasing doses of As, suggesting that As treatment-induced autophagy. Along with a dose-dependent increase in the number of MDC-labeled autophagic vacuoles, transmission electron microscopy also confirmed more autophagosomes and injured mitochondria in medium and high As₂O₃ doses groups. As₂O₃ also negatively affected the mean body weight, litter size, organ coefficient, and stereological indices in female mice. Finally, in physiological conditions, arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃) leads to an increased level of autophagy in the oocyte when many oocytes were being lost. These findings indicated that an imbalance in the oxidant-antioxidant system, mitochondrial impairment, and the autophagic process, through inhibition of mTOR, dependent and independent pathways, and Bcl-2, as well as activation of AMPK/PI3K/Beclin1/LC3 routes, could play a pivotal role in As-induced reproductive toxicity through ovarian dysfunction in females.

The Footprints of Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Impairment in Arsenic Trioxide-Induced Testosterone Release Suppression in Pubertal and Mature F1-Male Balb/c Mice via the Downregulation of 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, and CYP11a Expression

Exposure to arsenic (AS) causes abnormalities in the reproductive system; however, the precise cellular pathway of AS toxicity on steroidogenesis in developing F1-male mice has not been clearly defined. In this study, paternal mice were treated with arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃; 0, 0.2, 2, and 20 ppm in drinking water) from 5 weeks before mating until weaning and continued for male offspring from weaning until maturity (in vivo). Additionally, Leydig cells (LCs) were isolated from the testes of sacrificed F1-intact mature male mice and incubated with As₂O₃ (0, 1, 10, and 100 μM) for 48 h (in vitro). Biomarkers of mitochondrial impairment, oxidative stress, and several steroidogenic genes, including the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, cytochrome P450 side-chain cleaving enzyme (P450scc; Cyp11a), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), were evaluated. High doses of As₂O₃ interrupted testosterone (T) biosynthesis and T-related gene expression in these experimental models. Altogether, overconsumption of As₂O₃ can cause testicular and LC toxicity through mitochondrial-related pathways and oxidative stress indices as well as downregulation of androgenic-related genes in mice and isolated LCs. These results could lead to the development of preventive/therapeutic procedures against As₂O₃-induced reproductive toxicity. Graphical Abstract Mohammad Mehdi Ommati and Reza Heidari contributed equally to this study.

Suppression of cirrhosis-related renal injury by N-acetyl cysteine

Cirrhosis-induced renal injury or cholemic nephropathy (CN) is a serious clinical complication with poor prognosis. CN could finally lead to renal failure and the need for organ transplantation. Unfortunately, there is no specific pharmacological intervention against CN to date. On the other hand, various studies mentioned the role of oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment in the pathogenesis of CN. The current study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effects of NAC as a thiol-reducing agent and antioxidant in CN. Bile duct ligation (BDL) was used as a reliable animal model of cholestasis. BDL animals received NAC (0.25% and 1% w: v) in drinking water for 28 consecutive days. Finally, urine, blood, and kidney samples were collected and analyzed. Significant elevation in serum biomarkers of renal injury, along with urine markers of kidney damage, was evident in the BDL group. Moreover, markers of oxidative stress, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, and increased oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were evident detected in the kidney of cholestatic rats. Renal tissue antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione (GSH) were also significantly depleted in the BDL group. Significant mitochondrial depolarization, depleted ATP content, and mitochondrial permeabilization was also detected in mitochondria isolated from the kidney of cholestatic animals. Renal histopathological alterations consisted of significant tissue fibrosis, interstitial inflammation, and tubular atrophy. It was found that NAC (0.25 and 1% in drinking water for 28 consecutive days) blunted histopathological changes, decreased markers of oxidative stress, and improved mitochondrial indices in the kidney of cirrhotic rats. Moreover, serum and urine biomarkers of renal injury were also mitigated in upon NAC treatment. These data indicate a potential renoprotective role for NAC in cholestasis. The effects of NAC on cellular redox state and mitochondrial function seem to play a fundamental role in its renoprotective effects during CN.

Oral administration of thiol-reducing agents mitigates gut barrier disintegrity and bacterial lipopolysaccharide translocation in a rat model of biliary obstruction

It has been well documented that cirrhosis is associated with the intestinal injury. Intestinal injury in cirrhosis could lead to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation to the systemic circulation. It has been found that high plasma LPS is connected with higher morbidity and mortality in cirrhotic patients. Therefore, finding therapeutic approaches to mitigate this complication has great clinical value. Several investigations mentioned the pivotal role of oxidative stress in cirrhosis-associated intestinal injury. It has been well-known that the redox balance of enterocytes is disturbed in cirrhotic patients. In the current study, the effects of thiol-reducing agents N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (0.5 and 1% w: v) and dithiothreitol (DTT) (0.5 and 1% w: v) on biomarkers of oxidative stress, tissue histopathological alterations, and LPS translocation is investigated in a rat model of cirrhosis. Bile duct ligation (BDL) surgery was used to induce cirrhosis in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals (n ​= ​48; 8 animals/group) were supplemented with NAC and DTT for 28 consecutive days. Significant changes in ileum and colon markers of oxidative stress were evident in BDL rats as judged by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and protein carbonylation along with decreased antioxidant capacity and glutathione (GSH) content. Blunted villus, decreased villus number, and inflammation was also detected in the intestine of BDL animals. Moreover, serum LPS level was also significantly higher in BDL rats. NAC and DTT administration (0.5 and 1% w: v, gavage) significantly decreased biomarkers of oxidative stress, mitigated intestinal histopathological alterations, and restored tissue antioxidant capacity. Moreover, NAC and/or DTT significantly suppressed LPS translocation to the systemic circulation. The protective effects of thiol reducing agents in the intestine of cirrhotic rats could be attributed to the effect of these chemicals on the cellular redox environment and biomarkers of oxidative stress.

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Gut permeability is a clinical complication in cholestasis/cirrhosis

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Intestinal injury leads to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation to the bloodstream

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LPS translocation to the systemic circulation could cause systemic inflammation

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Oxidative stress is involved in the mechanisms of cirrhosis-induced gut permeability

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Oral administration of thiol-reducing agents mitigated intestinal tissue oxidative stress

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Serum LPS levels were lower in thiol reducing agents-treated animals

Paternal exposure to arsenic resulted in oxidative stress, autophagy, and mitochondrial impairments in the HPG axis of pubertal male offspring

Despite the knowledge of AS-induced reprotoxicity, the literature concerning arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃)-induced oxidative stress and consequent intracellular events, like autophagy process, in the hypothalamic-pituitary- gonadal (HPG) axis of F1- pubertal male mice is sparse to date. Hence, we made an attempt to study the reproductive toxicities and the underlying mechanisms induced by As₂O₃ in the HPG axis of pubertal F1- male mice in correlation with oxidative stress-induced autophagy. Parental mice were challenged with As₂O₃ (0, 0.2, 2, and 20 ppm) from five weeks before mating, and continued till puberty age for the male pups. It was recorded that higher As₂O₃ doses (2 and 20 ppm) were a potent inducer of oxidative stress and autophagy in the HPG axis. Concomitant with a decrease on mean body weight, total antioxidant capacity, and stereology indices, an increase in the number of MDC-labeled autophagic vacuoles, and MDA/GSH ratio in HPG axis of pubertal F1- male mice which were exposed to higher As₂O₃ doses was observed. Meanwhile, concomitant with a dose-dependent increment in the gene expression of ATG3, ATG5, Beclin, as well as protein expression of P62, ATG12, and Beclin in HPG axis tissues; a dose-dependent decrease in PI3K and mTOR gene expression was recorded in the HPG tissues of pubertal F₁-males. Altogether, our observations suggest that higher doses of As₂O₃ have detrimental effects on the functionality of HPG axis in pubertal male mice offspring by increasing MDA/GSH ratio and autophagic cell death-related genes and proteins, as well as by reducing total antioxidant capacity.

Bisphenol A-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress and DNA damage in cultured rhesus monkey embryo renal epithelial Marc-145 cells

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. Under harsh situations, these plastics likely desorb BPA, which then can seep into the environment. Various concentrations of BPA have been detected in most biological fluid. However, there is paucity of information on the detrimental effects of BPA and its subsequent cellular events in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Hence, in this in vitro study, we aimed to investigate the effects of BPA on renal epithelial cell activation, apoptosis, and DNA damage. Rhesus monkey embryo renal epithelial Marc-145 cells were exposed to 0, 10^-1, 10^-2, 10^-3, 10^-4, 10^-5, and 10^-6 M of BPA. Alterations in intracellular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and DNA damage were evaluated. The results showed that BPA decreased cell viability, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) level, with concomitant increases in apoptosis related indices, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content, and the rate of comet Marc-145 cells with a dose-dependent manner. The data indicated that increased oxidative stress, apoptosis and DNA damage in epithelial Marc-145 cells might play a pivotal role in the mechanism of BPA-induced nephrotoxicity.

Taurine Treatment Provides Neuroprotection in a Mouse Model of Manganism

Manganese (Mn) is a trace element involved in many physiological processes. However, excessive Mn exposure leads to neurological complications. Although no precise mechanism(s) has been found for Mn-induced neurotoxicity, oxidative stress and mitochondrial injury seem to play a relevant role in this complication. On the other hand, there is no protective strategy against Mn neurotoxicity so far. Taurine is an amino acid with significant neuroprotective properties. The current study was designed to evaluate the effect of taurine supplementation and its potential mechanism(s) of action in a mouse model of manganism. Animals were treated with Mn (100 mg/kg, s.c) alone and/or in combination with taurine (50, 100, and 500 mg/kg, i.p, for eight consecutive days). Severe locomotor dysfunction along with a significant elevation in brain tissue biomarkers of oxidative stress was evident in Mn-exposed mice. On the other hand, it was revealed that mitochondrial indices of functionality were hampered in Mn-treated animals. Taurine supplementation (50, 100, and 500 mg/kg, i.p) alleviated Mn-induced locomotor deficit. Moreover, this amino acid mitigated oxidative stress biomarkers and preserved brain tissue mitochondrial indices of functionality. These data introduce taurine as a potential neuroprotective agent against Mn neurotoxicity. Antioxidative and mitochondria protecting effects of taurine might play a fundamental role in its neuroprotective properties against Mn toxicity.

Proline supplementation mitigates the early stage of liver injury in bile duct ligated rats

Background Proline is a proteinogenic amino acid with multiple biological functions. Several investigations have been supposed that cellular proline accumulation is a stress response mechanism. This amino acid acts as an osmoregulator, scavenges free radical species, boosts cellular antioxidant defense mechanisms, protects mitochondria, and promotes energy production. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of proline treatment on the liver in bile duct ligated (BDL) rats as an animal model of cholestasis/cirrhosis. Methods BDL rats were supplemented with proline-containing drinking water (0.25% and 0.5% w:v), and samples were collected at scheduled time intervals (3, 7, 14, 28, and 42 days after BDL surgery). Results Drastic elevation in the serum level of liver injury biomarkers and significant tissue histopathological changes were evident in BDL rats. Markers of oxidative stress were also higher in the liver of BDL animals. It was found that proline supplementation attenuated BDL-induced alteration in serum biomarkers of liver injury, mitigated liver histopathological changes, and alleviated markers of oxidative stress at the early stage of BDL operation (3, 7, and 14 days after BDL surgery). Conclusions The hepatoprotection provided by proline in BDL animals might be associated with its ability to attenuate oxidative stress and its consequences.

The footprints of mitochondrial impairment and cellular energy crisis in the pathogenesis of xenobiotics-induced nephrotoxicity, serum electrolytes imbalance, and Fanconi's syndrome: A comprehensive review

Fanconi's Syndrome (FS) is a disorder characterized by impaired renal proximal tubule function. FS is associated with a vast defect in the renal reabsorption of several chemicals. Inherited and/or acquired conditions seem to be connected with FS. Several xenobiotics including many pharmaceuticals are capable of inducing FS and nephrotoxicity. Although the pathological state of FS is well described, the exact underlying etiology and cellular mechanism(s) of xenobiotics-induced nephrotoxicity, serum electrolytes imbalance, and FS are not elucidated. Constant and high dependence of the renal reabsorption process to energy (ATP) makes mitochondrial dysfunction as a pivotal mechanism which could be involved in the pathogenesis of FS. The current review focuses on the footprints of mitochondrial impairment in the etiology of xenobiotics-induced FS. Moreover, the importance of mitochondria protecting agents and their preventive/therapeutic capability against FS is highlighted. The information collected in this review may provide significant clues to new therapeutic interventions aimed at minimizing xenobiotics-induced renal injury, serum electrolytes imbalance, and FS.