Vitamin B12 deficiency results in severe oxidative stress, leading to memory retention impairment in Caenorhabditis elegans

Associations of serum folate and vitamin B12 levels with all-cause mortality among patients with metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease: a prospective cohort study

Introduction

Serum folate and vitamin B12 levels correlate with the prevalence of fatty liver disease, but it is not clear how they affect mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association of serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations with all-cause mortality in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

Methods

MASLD subjects were from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) in the United States, and mortality follow-up data were obtained by linkage to death records from the National Death Index. Multivariable Cox proportional regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were used to evaluate the association of serum folate/vitamin B12 with all-cause mortality in the MASLD population.

Results

3,636 and 2,125 MASLD individuals were included in the analyses related to serum folate and vitamin B12, respectively. During a follow-up period of more than 20 years, the RCS models demonstrated significant nonlinear associations of both serum folate (P <0.001) and vitamin B12 (P =0.016) with all-cause mortality in MASLD. When their serum concentrations were below the median level, the risk of all-cause mortality decreased with increasing concentration, reaching a lowest risk around the median level, and then leveled off. In the multivariable cox regression model, for vitamin B12, the risk of all-cause mortality was reduced by 42% and 28% in the third and fourth quartile groups, respectively, compared with the lowest quartile group (hazard ratio [HR]=0.58, 95% CI: 0.39-0.86, P =0.008; HR =0.72, 95% CI: 0.54-0.96, P=0.026, respectively). For folate, the risk of all-cause mortality was reduced by 28% in the third quartile compared with the lowest quartile (HR =0.72, 95% CI: 0.57-0.91, P =0.005).

Conclusion

This longitudinal cohort study suggests that low serum folate and vitamin B12 levels in patients with MASLD are significantly associated with an elevated risk of all-cause mortality.

Assessment of Vitamin B12 Efficacy on Cognitive Memory Function and Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Vitamin B12 is significant for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nervous system function. Inadequate vitamin B12 levels may result in a higher risk of depression, necessitating the need for supplementation to improve mood and cognitive function. However, the use of vitamin B12 supplementation varies across studies. This review aims to evaluate the effect of vitamin B12 supplementation on cognitive memory function and depressive symptoms among participants who may have mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This review adhered to the Cochrane Handbook and PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, CENTRAL, Medline, and Ovid, with no constraints on geography or demographics, up to August 31, 2024. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Data on study characteristics, treatment details, and outcomes were extracted. The risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane ROB2 tool. A meta-analysis of the effect of vitamin B12 on cognitive memory and depression was conducted using Jamovi software (The jamovi project (2024). jamovi (Version 2.5) [Computer Software]. Retrieved from https://www.jamovi.org). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The results yielded 483 records that were screened based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Excluding duplicates and irrelevant studies, the meta-analysis finally included nine RCTs. For cognitive memory function, eight of the nine included studies were analyzed, showing an average standardized mean difference of -0.03 (95% confidence interval (CI): -0.07 to 0.01), indicating no significant effect of vitamin B12 supplementation (p = 0.1801) and no significant heterogeneity. Regarding depressive symptoms, three of the nine included studies were analyzed, yielding an average standardized mean difference of -0.01 (95% CI: -0.0773 to 0.0525), also showing no significant effect (p = 0.708). These results suggest that vitamin B12 complex supplementation has an insignificant effect on cognitive function and depressive symptoms in the general population. However, further research is needed to explore the conditions under which B12 is most effective, providing clearer guidelines for its use in clinical practice.

An Intricate Network Involving the Argonaute ALG-1 Modulates Organismal Resistance to Oxidative Stress

Cellular response to redox imbalance is crucial for organismal health. microRNAs are implicated in stress responses. ALG-1, the C. elegans ortholog of human AGO2, plays an essential role in microRNA processing and function. Here we investigated the mechanisms governing ALG-1 expression in C. elegans and the players controlling lifespan and stress resistance downstream of ALG-1. We show that upregulation of ALG-1 is a shared feature in conditions linked to increased longevity (e.g., germline-deficient glp-1 mutants). ALG-1 knockdown reduces lifespan and oxidative stress resistance, while overexpression enhances survival against pro-oxidant agents but not heat or reductive stress. R02D3.7 represses alg-1 expression, impacting oxidative stress resistance at least in part via ALG-1. microRNAs upregulated in glp-1 mutants (miR-87-3p, miR-230-3p, and miR-235-3p) can target genes in the protein disulfide isomerase pathway and protect against oxidative stress. This study unveils a tightly regulated network involving transcription factors and microRNAs which controls organisms' ability to withstand oxidative stress.

Associations of micronutrient dietary patterns with sarcopenia among US adults: a population-based study

Background

Current epidemiological evidence points to an association between micronutrient (MN) intake and sarcopenia, but studies have focused on single MN, and no combined effects on MNs have been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between different MN intake patterns and sarcopenia and skeletal muscle mass.

Methods

We performed a population-based cross-sectional study, with a total of 5,256 U.S. adults aged 20-59 years, and we collected total daily MN intake and appendicular skeletal muscle mass measured by Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to obtain nutrient patterns and principal component scores based on the intake of 14 MNs, and logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effects of single MN and MN intake patterns on sarcopenia and muscle mass.

Results

We defined three MN intake patterns by PCA: (1) adherence to VitB-mineral, high intake of vitamin B and minerals; (2) adherence to VitAD-Ca-VB12, high intake of vitamin A, vitamin D, calcium and vitamin B12; and (3) adherence to Antioxidant Vit, high intake of antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, and K. These three nutrient patterns explained 73.26% of the variance of the population. A negative association was observed between most single MN intakes and sarcopenia, and after adjusting for confounders, adherence to the highest tertile of the three nutrient patterns was associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia and relatively higher skeletal muscle mass compared to the lowest adherence. In subgroup analysis, MN intake patterns were significantly correlated with sarcopenia in middle-aged females.

Conclusion

Nutritional patterns based on MN intake were significantly related to sarcopenia, indicating that MNs interact with each other while exerting their individual functions, and that MN dietary patterns may provide promising strategies for preventing the loss of muscle mass, with further prospective studies warranted in the future.

Remarkable impacts of probiotics supplementation in enhancing of the antioxidant status: results of an umbrella meta-analysis

Introduction

Numerous meta-analyses have demonstrated the beneficial effects of probiotics on oxidative stress biomarkers, although some studies have contradictory results. Therefore, the current research was conducted to obtain a precise and definite understanding on the impact of probiotics on oxidative stress biomarkers in adults.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive systematic search of results on Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar dating up to March 2022. Fifteen meta-analyses were included in this umbrella meta-analysis. The random-effects model was employed to obtain the overall effect size. Subgroup analyses were carried out based on supplementation dosage and duration, mean age, and study population.

Results

Our results indicated that probiotics supplementation meaningfully decreased serum malondialdehyde (MDA) (ESWMD = -0.56, 95% CI: -0.72, -0.39; p < 0.001, and ESSMD = -0.50, 95% CI: -0.66, -0.34; p < 0.001). Moreover, the findings showed that probiotics resulted in a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (ESWMD = 29.18, 95% CI: 16.31, 42.04; p < 0.001, and ESSMD = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.47; p = 0.032), total glutathione (GSH) (ESWMD: 30.65; 95% CI: 16.94, 44.35, p < 0.001), and nitric oxide (NO) (ESWMD: 1.48; 95% CI: 0.31, 2.65, p = 0.013; I2 = 51.7%, p = 0.043).

Discussion

Probiotics could be considered a strong agent in the reinforcement of antioxidant status and preventing the incidence of chronic diseases.

The Prophylactic Effect of Vitamin C and Vitamin B12 against Ultraviolet-C-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Rats

Ultraviolet C (UVC) devices are an effective means of disinfecting surfaces and protecting medical tools against various microbes, including coronavirus. Overexposure to UVC can induce oxidative stress, damage the genetic material, and harm biological systems. This study investigated the prophylactic efficacy of vitamin C and B12 against hepatotoxicity in UVC-intoxicated rats. Rats were irradiated with UVC (725.76, 967.68, and 1048.36 J/cm²) for 2 weeks. The rats were pretreated with the aforementioned antioxidants for two months before UVC irradiation. The prophylactic effect of vitamins against UVC hepatotoxicity was evaluated by monitoring the alteration of liver enzyme activities, antioxidant status, apoptotic and inflammatory markers, DNA fragmentation, and histological and ultrastructural alterations. Rats exposed to UVC showed a significant increase in liver enzymes, oxidant-antioxidant balance disruption, and increased hepatic inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS, and IDO-1). Additionally, obvious over-expression of activated caspase-3 protein and DNA fragmentation were detected. Histological and ultrastructural examinations verified the biochemical findings. Co-treatment with vitamins ameliorated the deviated parameters to variable degrees. In conclusion, vitamin C could alleviate UVC-induced hepatotoxicity more than vitamin B12 by diminishing oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage. This study could provide a reference for the clinical practice of vitamin C and B12 as radioprotective for workers in UVC disinfectant areas.

Potential Anti-Alzheimer Properties of Mogrosides in Vitamin B12-Deficient Caenorhabditis elegans

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to oxidative stress, which is known to be involved in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Mogrosides are plant-derived triterpene glycosides that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in animal cell lines and mouse models. Since amyloid-β toxicity is known to cause oxidative stress and damage to brain cells, we hypothesized that mogrosides may have a protective effect against AD. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-AD effect of mogrosides in vitamin B12-deficient wild-type N2 and in transgenic CL2355 Caenorhabditis elegans expressing amyloid-β peptide. Our data indicated that mogrosides have a beneficial effect on the lifespan and egg-laying rate of N2 and vitamin B12-deficient N2 worms. Additionally, the results revealed that mogrosides can effectively delay the paralysis of CL2355 worms as determined by serotonin sensitivity assay. Our analysis showed that mogrosides increase the expression of oxidative protective genes in N2 worms fed with vitamin B12-deficient OP50 bacterium. We conclude that mogrosides may exert preventative rather than curative effects that counteract the detrimental vitamin B12-deficient environment in N2 and CL2355 C. elegans by modulating oxidation-related gene expression.

Vitamin B12 administration prevents ethanol-induced learning and memory impairment through re-establishment of the brain oxidant/antioxidant balance, enhancement of BDNF and suppression of GFAP

There are growing evidence indicating that the adolescent brain is persistently affected by the use of psychostimulant agents. In this regard, alcohol drinking has become rather common among the adolescents in many societies during the last decade. It is currently well known that long-term ethanol exposure deteriorates various cognitive functions such as learning and memory. Mechanistically, these adverse effects have been shown to be mediated by oxidative damage to central nervous system. On the other hand, Vit-B12 is known to improve cognitive performance by suppression of oxidative parameters. Thus, in the present study we aimed to test whether treatment by Vit-B12 could prevent ethanol-induced complications in mice using behavioral and biochemical methods. Different groups of male Syrian mice received ethanol, ethanol+Vit-B12, Vit-B12 alone, or saline during adolescence and then learning and memory functions were assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) and Passive Avoidance (PA) tests. Finally, mice were sacrificed for measurement of biochemical factors. Results indicated that, adolescent ethanol intake impairs learning and memory function through exacerbation of oxidative stress and Vit-B12 treatment improves these complications by re-establishment of oxidant/anti-oxidant balance in CNS. Moreover, we found that Vit-B12 prevents ethanol-induced reduction of BDNF and enhancement of GFAP and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. In conclusion, it seems that Vit-B12 supplementation could be used as an effective therapeutic strategy to prevent learning and memory defects induced by chronic alcohol intake during adolescence.

Association of Serum Homocysteine with Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality in Adults with Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background

Homocysteine (Hcy) was implicated in oxidative stress and diabetes biologically. However, the clinical evidence on the link between Hcy level and diabetes is limited and controversial. This study is aimed at investigating the association of serum Hcy with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in diabetic patients.

Methods

Serum Hcy was measured among 2,286 adults with type 2 diabetes in NHANES 1999-2006. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs for the association of Hcy with all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 11.0 (interquartile range, 8.9-13.4) years, 952 of the 2286 patients with diabetes died, covering 269 (28.3%) cardiovascular deaths and 144 (15.2%) cancer deaths. Restricted cubic spline showed the linear relationship between Hcy and all-cause mortality risk. After multivariate adjustment, higher serum Hcy levels were independently associated with increased risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Compared with participants in the bottom tertile of Hcy, the multivariate-adjusted HRs and 95% CI for participants in the top quartile were 2.33 (1.64-3.30) for all-cause mortality (p_trend < 0.001), 2.24 (1.22-4.10) for CVD mortality (p_trend = 0.017), and 2.05 (0.90-4.69) for cancer mortality (p_trend = 0.096). The association with total mortality was especially stronger among patients with albuminuria. Serum Hcy significantly improved reclassification for 10-year mortality in diabetic patients (net reclassification index = 0.253 and integrated discrimination improvement = 0.011).

Conclusions

Serum Hcy was associated with risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in diabetic adults. Our results suggested that Hcy was a promising biomarker in risk stratification among diabetic patients.

Caenorhabditis elegans as an emerging model in food and nutrition research: importance of standardizing base diet

As a model organism that has helped revolutionize life sciences, Caenorhabditis elegans has been increasingly used in nutrition research. Here we explore the tradeoffs between pros and cons of its use as a dietary model based primarily on literature review from the past decade. We first provide an overview of its experimental strengths as an animal model, focusing on lifespan and healthspan, behavioral and physiological phenotypes, and conservation of key nutritional pathways. We then summarize recent advances of its use in nutritional studies, e.g. food preference and feeding behavior, sugar status and metabolic reprogramming, lifetime and transgenerational nutrition tracking, and diet-microbiota-host interactions, highlighting cutting-edge technologies originated from or developed in C. elegans. We further review current challenges of using C. elegans as a nutritional model, followed by in-depth discussions on potential solutions. In particular, growth scales and throughputs, food uptake mode, and axenic culture of C. elegans are appraised in the context of food research. We also provide perspectives for future development of chemically defined nematode food ("NemaFood") for C. elegans, which is now widely accepted as a versatile and affordable in vivo model and has begun to show transformative potential to pioneer nutrition science.

Oxidative stress in Hashimoto's thyroiditis: possible adjuvant therapies to attenuate deleterious effects

A number of studies have shown that oxidative stress is related to the pathogenesis of several immunological diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), although there is no plausible mechanism to explain it. Thus, we aimed at hypothesizing and providing some possible mechanisms linking oxidative stress to autoimmunity aspects and its implications for HT, as well as adjuvant therapeutic proposals to mitigate the deleterious effects. Our hypothesis is that deficient eating habits, autoimmune regulator gene predisposing gene, dysbiosis and molecular mimicry, unfolded proteins and stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, and thymus involution appear to be the main potential factors leading to HT oxidative stress. Likewise, we show that the use of minerals selenium and zinc, vitamins D and C, as well as probiotics, can be interesting adjuvant therapies for the control of oxidative damage and poor prognosis of HT. Further clinical trials are needed to understand the real beneficial and side effects of these supplements.

Early-life vitamin B12 orchestrates lipid peroxidation to ensure reproductive success via SBP-1/SREBP1 in Caenorhabditis elegans

Vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency is a critical problem worldwide. Such deficiency in infants has long been known to increase the propensity to develop obesity and diabetes later in life through unclear mechanisms. Here, we establish a Caenorhabditis elegans model to study how early-life B12 impacts adult health. We find that early-life B12 deficiency causes increased lipogenesis and lipid peroxidation in adult worms, which in turn induces germline defects through ferroptosis. Mechanistically, we show the central role of the methionine cycle-SBP-1/SREBP1-lipogenesis axis in programming adult traits by early-life B12. Moreover, SBP-1/SREBP1 participates in a crucial feedback loop with NHR-114/HNF4 to maintain cellular B12 homeostasis. Inhibition of SBP-1/SREBP1-lipogenesis signaling and ferroptosis later in life can reverse disorders in adulthood when B12 cannot. Overall, this study provides mechanistic insights into the life-course effects of early-life B12 on the programming of adult health and identifies potential targets for future interventions for adiposity and infertility.

Beneficial effects of vitamin B12 treatment in pediatric patients diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency regarding total-native thiol, oxidative stress, and mononuclear leukocyte DNA damage

Vitamin B₁₂ is involved in biochemical metabolic pathways. B₁₂ deficiency is common in childhood when the need for the vitamin increases and growth and development occur. Various hematological, neurological, psychiatric, and gastrointestinal disorders are observed in its deficiency. In addition, B₁₂ deficiency is associated with oxidative stress and DNA damage. Therefore, the aim of our study is to evaluate oxidative stress, thiol/disulfide homeostasis, and DNA damage pre and post-treatment in children diagnosed with B₁₂ deficiency. A total of 40 children with B₁₂ deficiency were included in the study after the consent form was approved. Blood was drawn from children pre and posttreatment. Hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and red blood cells (RBC) were measured by autoanalyzer; total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), total thiol (TT), and native thiol (NT) were measured by the photometric method, and DNA damage was analyzed by the comet assay method. Oxidative stress index (OSI) and disulfide (DIS) values were calculated. As a result of the experiments, HGB, HCT, and RBC increased with treatment. While TAS, TT, and NT as antioxidant parameters increased; TOS, OSI, and DIS decreased with treatment compared to pretreatment. DNA damage was also found to decrease with treatment. Additionally, these data were statistically significant (p < 0.001). It was found that oxidative stress and DNA damage decreased with oral B₁₂ treatment in children with B₁₂ deficiency, and clinical parameters were also improved.

Apex Predator Nematodes and Meso-Predator Bacteria Consume Their Basal Insect Prey through Discrete Stages of Chemical Transformations

Microbial symbiosis drives physiological processes of higher-order systems, including the acquisition and consumption of nutrients that support symbiotic partner reproduction. Metabolic analytics provide new avenues to examine how chemical ecology, or the conversion of existing biomass to new forms, changes over a symbiotic life cycle. We applied these approaches to the nematode Steinernema carpocapsae, its mutualist bacterium, Xenorhabdus nematophila, and the insects they infect. The nematode-bacterium pair infects, kills, and reproduces in an insect until nutrients are depleted. To understand the conversion of insect biomass over time into either nematode or bacterium biomass, we integrated information from trophic, metabolomic, and gene regulation analyses. Trophic analysis established bacteria as meso-predators and primary insect consumers. Nematodes hold a trophic position of 4.6, indicative of an apex predator, consuming bacteria and likely other nematodes. Metabolic changes associated with Galleria mellonella insect bioconversion were assessed using multivariate statistical analyses of metabolomics data sets derived from sampling over an infection time course. Statistically significant, discrete phases were detected, indicating the insect chemical environment changes reproducibly during bioconversion. A novel hierarchical clustering method was designed to probe molecular abundance fluctuation patterns over time, revealing distinct metabolite clusters that exhibit similar abundance shifts across the time course. Composite data suggest bacterial tryptophan and nematode kynurenine pathways are coordinated for reciprocal exchange of tryptophan and NAD+ and for synthesis of intermediates that can have complex effects on bacterial phenotypes and nematode behaviors. Our analysis of pathways and metabolites reveals the chemistry underlying the recycling of organic material during carnivory. IMPORTANCE The processes by which organic life is consumed and reborn in a complex ecosystem were investigated through a multiomics approach applied to the tripartite Xenorhabdus bacterium-Steinernema nematode-Galleria insect symbiosis. Trophic analyses demonstrate the primary consumers of the insect are the bacteria, and the nematode in turn consumes the bacteria. This suggests the Steinernema-Xenorhabdus mutualism is a form of agriculture in which the nematode cultivates the bacterial food sources by inoculating them into insect hosts. Metabolomics analysis revealed a shift in biological material throughout progression of the life cycle: active infection, insect death, and conversion of cadaver tissues into bacterial biomass and nematode tissue. We show that each phase of the life cycle is metabolically distinct, with significant differences including those in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and amino acid pathways. Our findings demonstrate that symbiotic life cycles can be defined by reproducible stage-specific chemical signatures, enhancing our broad understanding of metabolic processes that underpin a three-way symbiosis.

The Regulation and Characterization of Mitochondrial-Derived Methylmalonic Acid in Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress: From Basic Research to Clinical Practice

Methylmalonic acid (MMA) can act as a diagnosis of hereditary methylmalonic acidemia and assess the status of vitamin B12. Moreover, as a new potential biomarker, it has been widely reported to be associated with the progression and prognosis of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular events, renal insufficiency, cognitive impairment, and cancer. MMA accumulation may cause oxidative stress and impair mitochondrial function, disrupt cellular energy metabolism, and trigger cell death. This review primarily focuses on the mechanisms and epidemiology or progression in the clinical study on MMA.

Selenium deficiency is associated with disease severity, disrupted reward processing, and increased suicide risk in patients with Anorexia Nervosa

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) present many nutritional deficiencies (macro- and often also micro-nutrients), possibly explained by their inadequate food intake. Previous studies reported that selenium (Se) deficiency is common in the general population. As Se can be easily added as a supplement, the goal of this study was to evaluate the clinical impact of Se deficiency in patients with AN.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study concerned 153 patients with AN (92.9% women) followed at the Eating Disorder Unit of Lapeyronie Academic Hospital, Montpellier, France. Patients underwent an extensive neuropsychological assessment, and completed validated questionnaires. Blood samples were collected for Se quantification. Results were compared with the t-test, Mann-Whitney U, and Chi square tests, and univariate linear and multivariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Se plasma levels were below the cut-off of 80 µg/L in 53.6% (N = 82) of patients. AN onset was earlier in patients with Se deficiency, (p = .005), whereas disease duration was comparable between groups (p = .77). General eating disorder symptomatology in the past 28 days (Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire) was more severe in patients with Se deficiency (p = .010). The suicide risk (MINI International Neuropsychiatric Evaluation) tended to be higher (p = .037), and suicide attempt history was more frequent (28.39% vs 9.85%, p = .004) in patients with low Se levels. Se plasma concentration was negatively correlated with the performance in the temporal delayed discounting task (p = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that in patients with AN, Se plasma concentration might be implicated in disease severity and suicide risk. The finding that Se deficiency in patients with AN was associated only with reward-related processes, but not with other psychological functions suggests the selective involvement of dopamine-related pathways. Our results suggest that it might be useful to monitor the plasma micronutrient profile in patients with AN. Future studies should determine whether Se supplementation in AN might improve clinical outcomes.

Nutrition, Epigenetics, and Major Depressive Disorder: Understanding the Connection

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex, multifactorial disorder of rising prevalence and incidence worldwide. Nearly, 280 million of people suffer from this leading cause of disability in the world. Moreover, patients with this condition are frequently co-affected by essential nutrient deficiency. The typical scene with stress and hustle in developed countries tends to be accompanied by eating disorders implying overnutrition from high-carbohydrates and high-fat diets with low micronutrients intake. In fact, currently, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has drawn more attention to this underdiagnosed condition, besides the importance of the nutritional status in shaping immunomodulation, in which minerals, vitamins, or omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA) play an important role. The awareness of nutritional assessment is greater and greater in the patients with depression since antidepressant treatments have such a significant probability of failing. As diet is considered a crucial environmental factor, underlying epigenetic mechanisms that experience an adaptation or consequence on their signaling and expression mechanisms are reviewed. In this study, we included metabolic changes derived from an impairment in cellular processes due to lacking some essential nutrients in diet and therefore in the organism. Finally, aspects related to nutritional interventions and recommendations are also addressed.

Adaptive capacity to dietary Vitamin B12 levels is maintained by a gene-diet interaction that ensures optimal life span

Diet regulates complex life-history traits such as longevity. For optimal lifespan, organisms employ intricate adaptive mechanisms whose molecular underpinnings are less known. We show that Caenorhabditis elegans FLR-4 kinase prevents lifespan differentials on the bacterial diet having higher Vitamin B12 levels. The flr-4 mutants are more responsive to the higher B12 levels of Escherichia coli HT115 diet, and consequently, have enhanced flux through the one-carbon cycle. Mechanistically, a higher level of B12 transcriptionally downregulates the phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase pmt-2 gene, which modulates phosphatidylcholine (PC) levels. Pmt-2 downregulation activates cytoprotective gene expression through the p38-MAPK pathway, leading to increased lifespan only in the mutant. Evidently, preventing bacterial B12 uptake or inhibiting one-carbon metabolism reverses all the above phenotypes. Conversely, supplementation of B12 to E. coli OP50 or genetically reducing PC levels in the OP50-fed mutant extends lifespan. Together, we reveal how worms maintain adaptive capacity to diets having varying micronutrient content to ensure a normal lifespan.

Dityrosine Crosslinking of Collagen and Amyloid-β Peptides Is Formed by Vitamin B12 Deficiency-Generated Oxidative Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

(1) Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency in Caenorhabditis elegans results in severe oxidative stress and induces morphological abnormality in mutants due to disordered cuticle collagen biosynthesis. We clarified the underlying mechanism leading to such mutant worms due to vitamin B12 deficiency. (2) Results: The deficient worms exhibited decreased collagen levels of up to approximately 59% compared with the control. Although vitamin B12 deficiency did not affect the mRNA expression of prolyl 4-hydroxylase, which catalyzes the formation of 4-hydroxyproline involved in intercellular collagen biosynthesis, the level of ascorbic acid, a prolyl 4-hydroxylase coenzyme, was markedly decreased. Dityrosine crosslinking is involved in the extracellular maturation of worm collagen. The dityrosine level of collagen significantly increased in the deficient worms compared with the control. However, vitamin B12 deficiency hardly affected the mRNA expression levels of bli-3 and mlt-7, which are encoding crosslinking-related enzymes, suggesting that deficiency-induced oxidative stress leads to dityrosine crosslinking. Moreover, using GMC101 mutant worms that express the full-length human amyloid β, we found that vitamin B12 deficiency did not affect the gene and protein expressions of amyloid β but increased the formation of dityrosine crosslinking in the amyloid β protein. (3) Conclusions: Vitamin B12-deficient wild-type worms showed motility dysfunction due to decreased collagen levels and the formation of highly tyrosine-crosslinked collagen, potentially reducing their flexibility. In GMC101 mutant worms, vitamin B12 deficiency-induced oxidative stress triggers dityrosine-crosslinked amyloid β formation, which might promote its stabilization and toxic oligomerization.

Vitamin B12 impacts amyloid beta-induced proteotoxicity by regulating the methionine/S-adenosylmethionine cycle

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder with no effective treatment. Diet, as a modifiable risk factor for AD, could potentially be targeted to slow disease onset and progression. However, complexity of the human diet and indirect effects of the microbiome make it challenging to identify protective nutrients. Multiple factors contribute to AD pathogenesis, including amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, energy crisis, and oxidative stress. Here, we use Caenorhabditis elegans to define the impact of diet on Aβ proteotoxicity. We discover that dietary vitamin B12 alleviates mitochondrial fragmentation, bioenergetic defects, and oxidative stress, delaying Aβ-induced paralysis without affecting Aβ accumulation. Vitamin B12 has this protective effect by acting as a cofactor for methionine synthase, impacting the methionine/S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) cycle. Vitamin B12 supplementation of B12-deficient adult Aβ animals is beneficial, demonstrating potential for vitamin B12 as a therapy to target pathogenic features of AD triggered by proteotoxic stress.

Analysis of the Impact of Selected Vitamins Deficiencies on the Risk of Disability in Older People

Vitamin deficiencies have a serious impact on healthy aging in older people. Many age-related disorders have a direct or indirect impact on nutrition, both in terms of nutrient assimilation and food access, which may result in vitamin deficiencies and may lead to or worsen disabilities. Frailty is characterized by reduced functional abilities, with a key role of malnutrition in its pathogenesis. Aging is associated with various changes in body composition that lead to sarcopenia. Frailty, aging, and sarcopenia all favor malnutrition, and poor nutritional status is a major cause of geriatric morbidity and mortality. In the present narrative review, we focused on vitamins with a significant risk of deficiency in high-income countries: D, C, and B (B6/B9/B12). We also focused on vitamin E as the main lipophilic antioxidant, synergistic to vitamin C. We first discuss the role and needs of these vitamins, the prevalence of deficiencies, and their causes and consequences. We then look at how these vitamins are involved in the biological pathways associated with sarcopenia and frailty. Lastly, we discuss the critical early diagnosis and management of these deficiencies and summarize potential ways of screening malnutrition. A focused nutritional approach might improve the diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies and the initiation of appropriate clinical interventions for reducing the risk of frailty. Further comprehensive research programs on nutritional interventions are needed, with a view to lowering deficiencies in older people and thus decreasing the risk of frailty and sarcopenia.

Effects of Vitamin B12 Deficiency on Amyloid-β Toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans

High homocysteine (Hcy) levels, mainly caused by vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, have been reported to induce amyloid-β (Aβ) formation and tau hyperphosphorylation in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. However, the relationship between B₁₂ deficiency and Aβ aggregation is poorly understood, as is the associated mechanism. In the current study, we used the transgenic C. elegans strain GMC101, which expresses human Aβ_1-42 peptides in muscle cells, to investigate the effects of B₁₂ deficiency on Aβ aggregation-associated paralysis. C. elegans GMC101 was grown on nematode growth medium with or without B₁₂ supplementation or with 2-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-L-ascorbic acid (AsA-2G) supplementation. The worms were age-synchronized by hypochlorite bleaching and incubated at 20 °C. After the worms reached the young adult stage, the temperature was increased to 25 °C to induce Aβ production. Worms lacking B₁₂ supplementation exhibited paralysis faster and more severely than those that received it. Furthermore, supplementing B₁₂-deficient growth medium with AsA-2G rescued the paralysis phenotype. However, AsA-2G had no effect on the aggregation of Aβ peptides. Our results indicated that B₁₂ supplementation lowered Hcy levels and alleviated Aβ toxicity, suggesting that oxidative stress caused by elevated Hcy levels is an important factor in Aβ toxicity.

Molecular and Physiological Adaptations to Low Temperature in Thioalkalivibrio Strains Isolated from Soda Lakes with Different Temperature Regimes

The genus Thioalkalivibrio comprises sulfur-oxidizing bacteria thriving in soda lakes at high pH and salinity. Depending on the geographical location and the season, these lakes can strongly vary in temperature. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular and physiological adaptations to low temperature, we compared the responses of two Thioalkalivibrio strains to low (10°C) and high (30°C) temperatures. For this, the strains were grown under controlled conditions in chemostats and analyzed for their gene expression (RNA sequencing [RNA-Seq]), membrane lipid composition, and glycine betaine content. The strain Thioalkalivibrio versutus AL2^T originated from a soda lake in southeast Siberia that is exposed to strong seasonal temperature differences, including freezing winters, whereas Thioalkalivibrio nitratis ALJ2 was isolated from an East African Rift Valley soda lake with a constant warm temperature the year round. The strain AL2^T grew faster than ALJ2 at 10°C, likely due to its 3-fold-higher concentration of the osmolyte glycine betaine. Moreover, significant changes in the membrane lipid composition were observed for both strains, leading to an increase in their unsaturated fatty acid content via the Fab pathway to avoid membrane stiffness. Genes for the transcriptional and translational machinery, as well as for counteracting cold-induced hampering of nucleotides and proteins, were upregulated. Oxidative stress was reduced by induction of vitamin B₁₂ biosynthesis genes, and growth at 10°C provoked downregulation of genes involved in the second half of the sulfur oxidation pathway. Genes for intracellular signal transduction were differentially expressed, and interestingly, AL2^T upregulated flagellin expression, whereas ALJ2 downregulated it.

IMPORTANCE In addition to their haloalkaline conditions, soda lakes can also harbor a variety of other extreme parameters, to which their microbial communities need to adapt. However, for most of these supplementary stressors, it is not well known yet how haloalkaliphiles adapt and resist. Here, we studied the strategy for adaptation to low temperature in the haloalkaliphilic genus Thioalkalivibrio by using two strains isolated from soda lakes with different temperature regimes. Even though the strains showed a strong difference in growth rate at 10°C, they exhibited similar molecular and physiological adaptation responses. We hypothesize that they take advantage of resistance mechanisms against other stressors commonly found in soda lakes, which are therefore maintained in the bacteria living in the absence of low-temperature pressure. A major difference, however, was detected for their glycine betaine content at 10°C, highlighting the power of this osmolyte to also act as a key compound in cryoprotection.

Author Video: An author video summary of this article is available.

Low serum vitamin B12 levels are associated with degenerative rotator cuff tear

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B₁₂ (Vit B₁₂) deficiency results in elevated homocysteine levels and interference with collagen cross-linking, which may affect tendon integrity. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether serum Vit B₁₂ levels were correlated with degenerative rotator cuff (RC) tear.

METHODS

Eighty-seven consecutive patients with or without degenerative RC tear were enrolled as study participants. Possible risk factors (age, sex, medical history, bone mineral density, and serum chemistries including glucose, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, homocysteine, Vitamin D, Vit B₁₂, homocysteine, and folate) were assessed. Significant variables were selected based on the results of univariate analyses, and a logistic regression model (backward elimination) was constructed to predict the presence of degenerative RC tear.

RESULTS

In the univariate analysis, the group of patients with degenerative RC tear had a mean concentration of 528.4 pg/mL Vit B₁₂, which was significantly lower than the healthy control group (627.1 pg/mL). Logistic regression analysis using Vit B₁₂ as an independent variable revealed that Vit B₁₂ concentrations were significantly correlated with degenerative RC tear (p = 0.044). However, Vit B₁₂ levels were not associated with tear size.

CONCLUSION

Low serum levels of Vit B₁₂ were independently related to degenerative RC tear. Further investigations are warranted to determine if Vit B₁₂ supplementation can decrease the risk of this condition.

Protective Effect of Ultraviolet C Irradiation on the Gastric Mucosa of Rats with Chronic Gastritis Induced by Physicochemical Stimulations

Background

Chronic gastritis (CG) is a common digestive disease with the highest morbidity among multiple digestive diseases, which seriously lowers the life quality of patients. The pathological alternations of gastric mucosa, and its possible mechanisms have been the focus of CG-related researches. Accumulative basic and clinical evidence has confirmed that ultraviolet C (UVC) is effective in relieving superficial acute infective inflammation, skin and mucous membrane injuries, and ulcers, and promoting wound healing.

Objective

This study was aimed at investigating the protective effects of UVC on gastric mucosal injury in rats stimulated with physicochemical irritants like ethanol and exploring the mechanisms underlying the protection by UVC against gastric mucosal injury and CG.

Methods

Fifty Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups, including Group A (normal), Group B (model), Group C (omeprazole treatment), Group D (intragastric UVC irradiation for 24 s × 2 yields), and Group E (intragastric UVC irradiation for 48 s × 2 yields). Rats in Groups B-E were made CG model by physicochemical stimulations. All rats were sacrificed one week after the 22-week experiment, and gastric tissues were harvested. Histopathological examinations were performed. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as the contents of reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde in gastric mucosal tissues were detected. Serum interleukin-6, interleukin-1beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, pepsin, and gastrin were measured.

Results

Results showed that physiochemical irritants like ethanol could be used for easily establishing a rat CG model that shared similar pathological features with human CG. Intragastric UVC irradiation could promote the repair of gastric mucosa and improve the atrophy of gastric mucosa by inhibiting the inflammatory factors, increasing the levels of pepsin and gastrin, decreasing the expression of lipid peroxide, and enhancing the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase and the levels of reduced glutathione. UVC irradiation for 48 s × 2 yields showed the strongest protective effect.

Conclusion

UVC irradiation could inhibit the inflammatory factors, activate the antioxidative system, and enhance the secretion of pepsin and gastrin, which promoted the repair of injured gastric mucosa and improved gastric mucosa atrophy.

Vitamins: a nutritional intervention to modulate the Alzheimer's disease progression

Background: Alzheimer's disease is known as one of the fastest growing lethal diseases worldwide where we have limited and undesired ways for regulating its pathological progress. Now-a-days, nutritional compounds have been using to treat several brain disorders and one of them; vitamins were strongly reported to combat cognition and memory deterioration in neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease. Objective: Here, the author tried to find the precise physiological roles, status, and worth of vitamins in the brain and how exactly these nutrients modulate progression of Alzheimer's disease. Results & Discussion: After a comprehensive and systematic literature review, the author reports that vitamins have various targets in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis by which they act to avert the neuronal dysfunction in the disease. Several Alzheimer's disease-associated neurological deficits have reported regulating by vitamin intake but the beneficial effects identified mostly in combinatorial and long-term studies. Conclusion: In this way, the author suggests that it might be better to test vitamins with other components over single vitamin approach for a compatible and synergistic effect as well as using a combination of vitamin with other compounds can target multiple pathways. This strategy may help in deteriorating memory dysfunction and cognition impairment in Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology.Abbreviations: APOE: apolipoprotein E; APP: amyloid precursor protein; ATP: adenosine triphosphate; Aβ- β-amyloid; cGMP: cyclic guanine monophosphate; CNS: central nervous system; DNA: deoxyribonucleic acid; IU: international units; RA: retinoic acid; RAR: retinoic acid receptor; RNA: ribonucleic acid; ROS: reactive oxygen species; tHcy: total homocysteine; α: alpha; β: beta; γ: gama; ε: epsilon; g: gram; µ: micron; mg: milligram; ⬆: increased,⬇: decreased.

High-dose folic acid supplementation results in significant accumulation of unmetabolized homocysteine, leading to severe oxidative stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

Using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model animal, we evaluated the effects of chronical supplementation with high-dose folic acid on physiological events such as life cycle and egg-laying capacity and folate metabolism. Supplementation of high-dose folic acid significantly reduced egg-laying capacity. The treated worms contained a substantial amount of unmetabolized folic acid and exhibited a significant downregulation of the mRNAs of cobalamin-dependent methionine synthase reductase and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. In vitro experiments showed that folic acid significantly inhibited the activity of cobalamin-dependent methionine synthase involved in the metabolism of both folate and methionine. In turn, these metabolic disorders induced the accumulation of unmetabolized homocysteine, leading to severe oxidative stress in worms. These results were similar to the phenomena observed in mammals during folate deficiency.

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High-dose folic acid supplementation reduced egg-laying ability in worms.

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Substantial amounts of folic acid and homocysteine were accumulated in the worms.

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The mRNA expression of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase was reduced in the treated worms.

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Folic acid was a potent inhibitor of cobalamin-dependent methionine synthase in in vitro tests.

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High-dose folic acid supplementation in worms resulted in severe oxidative stress.

L-Ascorbate Biosynthesis Involves Carbon Skeleton Rearrangement in the Nematode Caenorhabditis elegans

Ascorbate (AsA) is required as a cofactor and is widely distributed in plants and animals. Recently, it has been suggested that the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans also synthesizes AsA. However, its biosynthetic pathway is still unknown. To further understand AsA biosynthesis in C. elegans, we analyzed the incorporation of the ¹³C atom into AsA using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in worms fed with D-Glc (1-¹³C)-labeled Escherichia coli. GC-MS analysis revealed that AsA biosynthesis in C. elegans, similarly to that in mammalian systems, involves carbon skeleton rearrangement. The addition of L-gulono-1,4-lactone, an AsA precursor in the mammalian pathway, significantly increased AsA level in C. elegans, whereas the addition of L-galactono-1,4-lactone, an AsA precursor in the plant and Euglena pathway, did not affect AsA level. The suppression of E03H4.3 (an ortholog of gluconolactonase) or the deficiency of F54D5.12 (an ortholog of L-gulono-1,4-lactone oxidase) significantly decreased AsA level in C. elegans. Although N2- and AsA-deficient F54D5.12 knockout mutant worm (tm6671) morphologies and the ratio of collagen to non-collagen protein did not show any significant differences, the mutant worms exhibited increased malondialdehyde levels and reduced lifespan compared with the N2 worms. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the AsA biosynthetic pathway is similar in C. elegans and mammals.

Cuticle Collagen Expression Is Regulated in Response to Environmental Stimuli by the GATA Transcription Factor ELT-3 in Caenorhabditis elegans

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is protected from the environment by the cuticle, an extracellular collagen-based matrix that encloses the animal. Over 170 cuticular collagens are predicted in the C. elegans genome, but the role of each individual collagen is unclear. Stage-specific specialization of the cuticle explains the need for some collagens; however, the large number of collagens suggests that specialization of the cuticle may also occur in response to other environmental triggers. Missense mutations in many collagen genes can disrupt cuticle morphology, producing a helically twisted body causing the animal to move in a stereotypical pattern described as rolling. We find that environmental factors, including diet, early developmental arrest, and population density can differentially influence the penetrance of rolling in these mutants. These effects are in part due to changes in collagen gene expression that are mediated by the GATA family transcription factor ELT-3 We propose a model by which ELT-3 regulates collagen gene expression in response to environmental stimuli to promote the assembly of a cuticle specialized to a given environment.

Residential exposure to radon and levels of histone γH2AX and DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of residents of Kowary city regions (Poland)

INTRODUCTION

Radon-induced biological effects have been studied mainly through epidemiological investigations, and well-controlled in vitro and in vivo experiments. To provide data explaining radon exposure-induced harmful effects in natural environment, exposure assessment under these conditions is needed. The objective of the study was to examine the level of genetic damage assessed with biomarkers of DNA single- and double-strand breaks (SSBs and DSBs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from individuals continuously exposed to Rn in homes. Naturally elevated Rn concentrations in homes can be found in the South of Poland, in Kowary city.

METHODS

Measurements of expression of phosphorylated histone γH2AX was used as a marker of DNA double strand breaks. To detect DNA single and double-strand breaks and alkali labile sites, the alkaline comet assay was used. Oxidative damage of DNA was evaluated by formamidopyrimidyne (FPG)-modified comet assay. The blood was collected from 94 volunteers living in Kowary. Subjects were grouped according to their status of living in radon concentration ≥100 Bq/m³ (n = 67), and <100 Bq/m³ (n = 27).

RESULTS

The statistically significant differences in levels of DNA damage in peripheral lymphocytes assessed with comet assay were found to be associated with levels of radon exposure in indoor air (p = 0.034). DNA damage in the comet assay was significantly correlated with DNA damage assessed with γH2AX staining.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the present study indicate the suitability of alkaline comet assay for the detection of DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of people environmentally exposed to radon.

Bacteria increase host micronutrient availability: mechanisms revealed by studies in C. elegans

Micronutrients cannot be synthesized by humans and are obtained from three different sources: diet, gut microbiota, and oral supplements. The microbiota generates significant quantities of micronutrients, but the contribution of these compounds to total uptake is unclear. The role of bacteria in the synthesis and uptake of micronutrients and supplements is widely unexplored and may have important implications for human health. The efficacy and safety of several micronutrient supplements, including folic acid, have been questioned due to some evidence of adverse effects on health. The use of the simplified animal-microbe model, Caenorhabditis elegans, and its bacterial food source, Escherichia coli, provides a controllable system to explore the underlying mechanisms by which bacterial metabolism impacts host micronutrient status. These studies have revealed mechanisms by which bacteria may increase the bioavailability of folic acid, B12, and iron. These routes of uptake interact with bacterial metabolism, with the potential to increase bacterial pathogenesis, and thus may be both beneficial and detrimental to host health.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common disease affecting about 5% of the general population after the age of 50. Causes of PN are numerous and include genetic, diabetes, alcohol, vitamin deficiencies, and gluten sensitivity among others. This systematic review aimed to study the association between oxidative stress and PN in an attempt to better understand PN pathogenesis. A computer-based, systematic search was conducted on the PubMed database, and ensuing data from included articles was analyzed and discussed in this review. Sixty-nine papers were eligible and were used for this review. Peripheral neuropathy is associated with an increase of reactive oxygen species and a decrease in endogenous antioxidants. Genetic predisposition to oxidative damage may be a factor. Antioxidant treatment is promising regarding treatment. Though further research is necessary to better understand the underlying mechanism, it is evident that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of - or is at least systematically present in - PN.

A Randomized Pilot Trial to Evaluate the Bioavailability of Natural versus Synthetic Vitamin B Complexes in Healthy Humans and Their Effects on Homocysteine, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidant Levels

The vitamin B complex comprises 8 different water-soluble constituents that humans must sequester from the diet. This pilot study compared natural versus synthetic vitamin B complexes for their bioavailability, accumulation, and their impact on antioxidants, homocysteine levels, and oxidative stress. We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial with thirty healthy participants. They were randomly assigned to group N (natural) and group S (synthetic). Vitamin B was ingested daily for 6 weeks in the range of about 2.5 times above the recommended daily allowance. Blood samples were taken at baseline, 1.5 h, 4 h, 7 h (diurnal), 6 w (discontinuation of supplements), and 8 w (washout). Blood levels of thiamine (B₁), riboflavin (B₂), pyridoxine (B₆), folic acid (B₉), cobalamin (B₁₂), homocysteine, total antioxidants, peroxidase activity, polyphenols, and total peroxides were determined. Compared to initial values, serum levels of each B vitamin increased at the end of the supplementation period: i.e., B₁ (+23% N; +27% S), B₂ (+14% N; +13% S), B₆ (+101% N; +101% S), B₉ (+86% N; +153% S), and B₁₂ (+16% N) (p < 0.05). Homocysteine (-13% N) decreased, while peroxidase activity (+41% S) and antioxidant capacity increased (+26% N). Short-term effects were already observed after 1.5 h for B₉ (+238% N; +246% S) and after 4 h for vitamin B₂ (+7% N; +8% S), B₆ (+59% N; +51% S), and peroxidase activity (+58% N; +58% S). During the washout period, serum levels of B vitamins decreased except for thiamine and peroxidase activity, which increased further. This clinical pilot study revealed comparable bioavailability for both natural and synthetic B vitamins but did not show statistically noticeable differences between groups despite some favourable tendencies within the natural vitamin group, i.e., sustained effects for cobalamin and endogenous peroxidase activity and a decrease in homocysteine and oxidative stress levels.

Genome-wide identification of ABC transporters in monogeneans

ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) transporters are proteins that actively mediate the transport of a wide variety of molecules, including drugs. Thus, in parasitology, ABC transporters have gained attention as potential targets for therapeutic drugs. Among the parasitic Platyhelminthes, ABC transporters have been identified and classified in a few species of Trematoda and Cestoda but not in Monogenea. Monogeneans are mainly ectoparasites of marine and freshwater fish, although they can also be found on other aquatic organisms. Severe epizootics caused by monogeneans have been reported around the world, mainly in confined and/or overcrowded fish. The purpose of this study was to identify the ABC transporters in four species of monogeneans (Gyrodactylus salaris, Protopolystoma xenopodis, Eudiplozoon nipponicum and Neobenedenia melleni) for which genomic resources are publicly available. For comparative purposes, ABC transporters were also identified in endoparasitic (Schistosoma mansoni and Echinococcus granulosus) and free-living (Macrostomun lignano and Schmidtea mediterranea) platyhelminths. Thirty-two putative ABC transporters were identified in the genome of G. salaris, 40 in the genome of P. xenopodis, 46 in the transcriptome of E. nipponicum and 9 in a rather limited ESTs set available for N. melleni. Of the eight ABC subfamilies (A-H) known in metazoans, subfamily H was the only one not found in any monogenean species. In contrast, ABCC was the best represented subfamily. Phylogenetic analyses showed a few cases of one-to-one orthologous relationships, which agree with results from other metazoan species. We found some monogenean ABC members related to subfamilies B, C and G involved in drug resistance in humans. This information may be useful for future functional studies on ABC transporters in monogeneans.

Involvement of Spermidine in the Reduced Lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans During Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency leads to various symptoms such as neuropathy, growth retardation, and infertility. Vitamin B₁₂ functions as a coenzyme for two enzymes involved in amino acid metabolisms. However, there is limited information available on whether amino acid disorders caused by vitamin B₁₂ deficiency induce such symptoms. First, free amino acid levels were determined in vitamin B₁₂-deficient Caenorhabditis elegans to clarify the mechanisms underlying the symptoms caused by vitamin B₁₂ deficiency. Various amino acids (valine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, and cystathionine, among others) metabolized by vitamin B₁₂-dependent enzymes were found to be significantly changed during conditions of B₁₂ deficiency, which indirectly affected certain amino acids metabolized by vitamin B₁₂-independent enzymes. For example, ornithine was significantly increased during vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, which also significantly increased arginase activity. The accumulation of ornithine during vitamin B₁₂ deficiency constitutes the first report. In addition, the biosynthesis of spermidine from ornithine was significantly decreased during vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, likely due to the reduction of S-adenosylmethionine as a substrate for S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, which catalyzes the formation of spermidine. Moreover, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency also demonstrated a significant reduction in worm lifespan, which was partially recovered by the addition of spermidine. Collectively, our findings suggest that decreased spermidine is one factor responsible for reduced lifespan in vitamin B₁₂-deficient worms.

Ultrasonicated sour Jujube seed flavonoids extract exerts ameliorative antioxidant capacity and reduces Aβ-induced toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sour Jujube seed from Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. Spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chow is a traditional Chinese herb. It was demonstrated with significant activities in anti-depression and antioxidant by numerous pharmacological studies. Flavonoids is one of the main constituents in sour Jujube seed.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to propose a green ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) process of flavonoids from sour Jujube seed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extraction parameters were investigated and optimized using single factor experiments, Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Moreover, a comparative analysis between ultrasound-assisted extraction and heat reflux extraction was performed to verify the ameliorating effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction on the flavonoids yield, the composition, antioxidant capacities in vitro and ROS scavenging capacity in PC12 cells. Meanwhile, the effects of flavonoids extract (FE) on Aβ transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans (GMC101) behavior were investigated.

RESULTS

The optimal extracting conditions of total flavonoids were as follows: ethanol concentration 70.60 (v/v%), liquid-solid ratio 15.02:1 mL/g, ultrasonic power 404 W, extraction time 60.03 min. The highest extraction yield was 1.59%. When compared to Heat reflux extraction (HRE) that only has gained a yield of 1.356%. Approximately, the UAE method was able to increase the yield by 17.11%. Moreover, FE extracted by UAE displayed larger capacity of scavenging ABTS, DPPH, superoxide, and hydroxyl radicals and reducing the level of ROS accumulation in PC12 cells, suggesting the biological functions of these compounds could be also better protected under UAE conditions. Furthermore, FE could also increase the chemotaxis and heat stress resistance ability, delay the paralysis and extend the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans.

CONCLUSION

UAE is a green and efficient technique for the preparation of flavonoids from sour Jujube seed. The flavonoids extract can reduce Aβ-induced toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Transcriptomic Analysis of Two Thioalkalivibrio Species Under Arsenite Stress Revealed a Potential Candidate Gene for an Alternative Arsenite Oxidation Pathway

The genus Thioalkalivibrio includes haloalkaliphilic chemolithoautotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria isolated from various soda lakes worldwide. Some of these lakes possess in addition to their extreme haloalkaline environment also other harsh conditions, to which Thioalkalivibrio needs to adapt. An example is arsenic in soda lakes in eastern California, which is found there in concentrations up to 3000 μM. Arsenic is a widespread element that can be an environmental issue, as it is highly toxic to most organisms. However, resistance mechanisms in the form of detoxification are widespread and some prokaryotes can even use arsenic as an energy source. We first screened the genomes of 76 Thioalkalivibrio strains for the presence of known arsenic oxidoreductases and found 15 putative ArxA (arsenite oxidase) and two putative ArrA (arsenate reductase). Subsequently, we studied the resistance to arsenite in detail in Thioalkalivibrio jannaschii ALM2^T, and Thioalkalivibrio thiocyanoxidans ARh2^T by comparative genomics and by growing them at different arsenite concentrations followed by arsenic species and transcriptomic analysis. Tv. jannaschii ALM2^T, which has been isolated from Mono Lake, an arsenic-rich soda lake, could resist up to 5 mM arsenite, whereas Tv. thiocyanoxidans ARh2^T, which was isolated from a Kenyan soda lake, could only grow up to 0.1 mM arsenite. Interestingly, both species oxidized arsenite to arsenate under aerobic conditions, although Tv. thiocyanoxidans ARh2^T does not contain any known arsenite oxidases, and in Tv. jannaschii ALM2^T, only arxB2 was clearly upregulated. However, we found the expression of a SoeABC-like gene, which we assume might have been involved in arsenite oxidation. Other arsenite stress responses for both strains were the upregulation of the vitamin B₁₂ synthesis pathway, which can be linked to antioxidant activity, and the up- and downregulation of different DsrE/F-like genes whose roles are still unclear. Moreover, Tv. jannaschii ALM2^T induced the ars gene operon and the Pst system, and Tv. thiocanoxidans ARh2^T upregulated the sox and apr genes as well as different heat shock proteins. Our findings for Thioalkalivibrio confirm previously observed adaptations to arsenic, but also provide new insights into the arsenic stress response and the connection between the arsenic and the sulfur cycle.

Implication of homocysteine in protein quality control processes

Homocysteine (Hcy) is a key metabolite generated during methionine metabolism. The elevated levels of Hcy in the blood are reffered to as hyperhomocystenimeia (HHcy). The HHcy is caused by impaired metabolism/deficiency of either folate or B12 or defects in Hcy metabolism. Accumulating evidence suggests that HHcy is associated with cardiovascular and brain diseases including atherosclerosis, endothelial injury, and stroke etc. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin; B12) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for two metabolic reactions. It acts as a co-factor for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Besides, it is also vital for DNA synthesis and maturation of RBC. Deficiency of B12 is associated with haematological and neurological disorders. Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy)-induced toxicity is thought to be mediated by the accumulation of Hcy and its metabolites, homocysteinylated proteins. Cellular protein quality control (PQC) is essential for the maintenance of proteome integrity, and cell viability and its failure contributes to the development of multiple diseases. Chaperones, unfolded protein response (UPR), ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), and autophagy are analogous strategies of PQC that maintain cellular proteome integrity. Recently, multiple studies reported that HHcy responsible for perturbation of PQC by reducing chaperone levels, activating UPR, and impairing autophagy. Besides, HHcy also induce cytotoxicity, inflammation, protein aggregation and apoptosis. It has been shown that some of the factors including altered SIRT1-HSF1 axis and irreversible homocysteinylation of proteins are responsible for folate and/or B12 deficiency or HHcy-induced impairment of PQC. Therefore, this review highlights the current understanding of HHcy in the context of cellular PQC and their pathophysiological and clinical consequences, epigenomic changes, therapeutic implications of B12, and chemical chaperones based on cell culture and experimental animal models.

The nutritional requirements of Caenorhabditis elegans

Animals require sufficient intake of a variety of nutrients to support their development, somatic maintenance and reproduction. An adequate diet provides cell building blocks, chemical energy to drive cellular processes and essential nutrients that cannot be synthesised by the animal, or at least not in the required amounts. Dietary requirements of nematodes, including Caenorhabditis elegans have been extensively studied with the major aim to develop a chemically defined axenic medium that would support their growth and reproduction. At the same time, these studies helped elucidating important aspects of nutrition-related biochemistry and metabolism as well as the establishment of C. elegans as a powerful model in studying evolutionarily conserved pathways, and the influence of the diet on health.

Vitamin B12 in Relation to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review

The triage theory posits that modest micronutrient deficiencies may induce reallocation of nutrients to processes necessary for immediate survival at the expense of long-term health. Neglected processes could in time contribute to the onset of age-related diseases, in which oxidative stress is believed to be a major factor. Vitamin B12 (B12) appears to possess antioxidant properties. This review aims to summarise the potential antioxidant mechanisms of B12 and investigate B12 status in relation to oxidative stress markers. A systematic query-based search of PubMed was performed to identify eligible publications. The potential antioxidant properties of B12 include: (1) direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide; (2) indirect stimulation of ROS scavenging by preservation of glutathione; (3) modulation of cytokine and growth factor production to offer protection from immune response-induced oxidative stress; (4) reduction of homocysteine-induced oxidative stress; and (5) reduction of oxidative stress caused by advanced glycation end products. Some evidence appears to suggest that lower B12 status is related to increased pro-oxidant and decreased antioxidant status, both overall and for subclinically deficient individuals compared to those with normal B12 status. However, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials and prospective studies focusing specifically on the relation between B12 and oxidative stress in humans, resulting in a low strength of evidence. Further work is warranted.

Vitamin B12 Levels in Methamphetamine Addicts

Objective: It has been established that reduced vitamin B12 serum levels are associated with cognitive decline and mental illness. The chronic use of methamphetamine (MA), which is a highly addictive drug, can induce cognitive impairment and psychopathological symptoms. There are few studies addressing the association of MA with vitamin B12 serum levels. This study examined whether the serum levels of B12 are associated with MA addiction.

Methods: Serum vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), glucose and triglyceride concentrations were measured in 123 MA addicts and 108 controls. In addition, data were collected on their age, marital status, level of education and Body Mass Index (BMI) for all participants. In the patient group, the data for each subject were collected using the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), and a drug use history, which included the age of onset, total duration of MA use, the number of relapses and addiction severity.

Results: Our results showed that MA addicts had lower vitamin B12 levels (p < 0.05) than those of healthy controls, but Hcy levels were not significantly different between the two groups (p > 0.05). Serum B12 levels were negatively correlated with the number of relapses in the MA group. Furthermore, binary logistics regression analysis indicated that the B12 was an influencing factor contributing to addiction severity.

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that some MA addicts might have vitamin B12 deficiency, and serum B12 levels may be involved in the prognosis of MA addiction.

Protective Effects of Dioscorea batatas Flesh and Peel Extracts against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Mice

Gastric ulcer is a major digestive disorder and provoked by multifactorial etiologies, including excessive alcohol consumption. In this study, we examined the gastroprotective effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Dioscorea batatas Decne (DBD; commonly called Chinese yam) flesh or peel against acidified ethanol-induced acute gastric damage in mice. Our findings demonstrated that oral supplementation of aqueous or ethanolic extracts of DBD flesh or peel before ulcer induction was significantly effective in macroscopically and histologically alleviating ethanol-induced pathological lesions in gastric mucosa, decreasing the plasma levels of inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide and interleukin-6, attenuating the gastric expression of cyclooxygenase-2, and increasing the gastric content of prostaglandin E₂. In particular, pretreatment with the flesh extract prepared in 60% ethanol prominently decreased the expression of biomarkers of oxidative stress, including the plasma levels of 8-hydroxy-2-guanosine and malondialdehyde, and restored heme oxygenase-1 expression and superoxide dismutase activity in the stomach. Overall, these findings suggest that the oral supplementation with DBD extract, especially flesh ethanol extract, prior to excessive alcohol consumption, may exert a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage in vivo, presumably through the activation of the antioxidant system and suppression of the inflammatory response.

Construction of Fluorescent Analogs to Follow the Uptake and Distribution of Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) in Bacteria, Worms, and Plants

Vitamin B₁₂ is made by only certain prokaryotes yet is required by a number of eukaryotes such as mammals, fish, birds, worms, and Protista, including algae. There is still much to learn about how this nutrient is trafficked across the domains of life. Herein, we describe ways to make a number of different corrin analogs with fluorescent groups attached to the main tetrapyrrole-derived ring. A further range of analogs were also constructed by attaching similar fluorescent groups to the ribose ring of cobalamin, thereby generating a range of complete and incomplete corrinoids to follow uptake in bacteria, worms, and plants. By using these fluorescent derivatives we were able to demonstrate that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is able to acquire both cobyric acid and cobalamin analogs, that Caenorhabditis elegans takes up only the complete corrinoid, and that seedlings of higher plants such as Lepidium sativum are also able to transport B₁₂.