One-year follow-up of clinical, metabolic and oxidative stress profile of morbid obese patients after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. 8-oxo-dG as a clinical marker

Impact of obesity on airway remodeling in asthma: pathophysiological insights and clinical implications

The prevalence of obesity among asthma patients has surged in recent years, posing a significant risk factor for uncontrolled asthma. Beyond its impact on asthma severity and patients' quality of life, obesity is associated with reduced lung function, increased asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations, heightened airway hyperresponsiveness, and elevated asthma-related mortality. Obesity may lead to metabolic dysfunction and immune dysregulation, fostering chronic inflammation characterized by increased pro-inflammatory mediators and adipocytokines, elevated reactive oxygen species, and reduced antioxidant activity. This chronic inflammation holds the potential to induce airway remodeling in individuals with asthma and obesity. Airway remodeling encompasses structural and pathological changes, involving alterations in the airway's epithelial and subepithelial layers, hyperplasia and hypertrophy of airway smooth muscle, and changes in airway vascularity. In individuals with asthma and obesity, airway remodeling may underlie heightened airway hyperresponsiveness and increased asthma severity, ultimately contributing to the development of persistent airflow limitation, declining lung function, and a potential increase in asthma-related mortality. Despite efforts to address the impact of obesity on asthma outcomes, the intricate mechanisms linking obesity to asthma pathophysiology, particularly concerning airway remodeling, remain incompletely understood. This comprehensive review discusses current research investigating the influence of obesity on airway remodeling, to enhance our understanding of obesity's role in the context of asthma airway remodeling.

Understanding mechanisms of antioxidant action in health and disease

Several different reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated in vivo. They have roles in the development of certain human diseases whilst also performing physiological functions. ROS are counterbalanced by an antioxidant defence network, which functions to modulate ROS levels to allow their physiological roles whilst minimizing the oxidative damage they cause that can contribute to disease development. This Review describes the mechanisms of action of antioxidants synthesized in vivo, antioxidants derived from the human diet and synthetic antioxidants developed as therapeutic agents, with a focus on the gaps in our current knowledge and the approaches needed to close them. The Review also explores the reasons behind the successes and failures of antioxidants in treating or preventing human disease. Antioxidants may have special roles in the gastrointestinal tract, and many lifestyle features known to promote health (especially diet, exercise and the control of blood glucose and cholesterol levels) may be acting, at least in part, by antioxidant mechanisms. Certain reactive sulfur species may be important antioxidants but more accurate determinations of their concentrations in vivo are needed to help assess their contributions.

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

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

Oxidative and DNA damage in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery: A one-year follow-up study

The pathogenesis of obesity and related comorbidities has long been associated with oxidative stress. The excess of adipose tissue contributes to the production of free radicals that sustain both a local and a systemic chronic inflammatory state, whereas its reduction can bring to an improvement in inflammation and oxidative stress. In our work, using the fluorescent lipid probe BODIPY® 581/591 C11 and the γH2AX foci assay, a well-known marker of DNA double strand breaks (DSB), we evaluated the extent of cell membrane oxidation and DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of normal weight (NW) controls and obese patients sampled before and after bariatric surgery. Compared to NW controls, we observed a marked increase in both the frequencies of oxidized cells or nuclei exhibiting phosphorylation of histone H2AX in preoperatory obese patients. After bariatric surgery, obese patients, resampled over one-year follow-up, improved oxidative damage and reduced the presence of DSB. In conclusion, the present study highlights the importance for obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery to also monitor these molecular markers during their postoperative follow-up.

Protein posttranslational modifications in health and diseases: Functions, regulatory mechanisms, and therapeutic implications

Protein posttranslational modifications (PTMs) refer to the breaking or generation of covalent bonds on the backbones or amino acid side chains of proteins and expand the diversity of proteins, which provides the basis for the emergence of organismal complexity. To date, more than 650 types of protein modifications, such as the most well-known phosphorylation, ubiquitination, glycosylation, methylation, SUMOylation, short-chain and long-chain acylation modifications, redox modifications, and irreversible modifications, have been described, and the inventory is still increasing. By changing the protein conformation, localization, activity, stability, charges, and interactions with other biomolecules, PTMs ultimately alter the phenotypes and biological processes of cells. The homeostasis of protein modifications is important to human health. Abnormal PTMs may cause changes in protein properties and loss of protein functions, which are closely related to the occurrence and development of various diseases. In this review, we systematically introduce the characteristics, regulatory mechanisms, and functions of various PTMs in health and diseases. In addition, the therapeutic prospects in various diseases by targeting PTMs and associated regulatory enzymes are also summarized. This work will deepen the understanding of protein modifications in health and diseases and promote the discovery of diagnostic and prognostic markers and drug targets for diseases.

The relationship between serum superoxide dismutase and thyroid function in obese patients after Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

To investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal correlation between serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and thyroid function with obesity before and after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Patients with morbid obesity (n = 219, 112 males and 107 females) who underwent LSG were selected and they were subdivided into normal levels of SOD (NSOD, n = 112) and high levels of SOD (HSOD, n = 107) according to the median value of SOD levels (183 U/mL). SOD and thyroid hormones were measured and compared at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months after LSG. The HSOD group had lower body mass index (BMI), total thyroxine (TT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) than the NSOD group (p < 0.001, p = 0.031, p < 0.001, respectively). However, they had higher free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) (p = 0.019 and p = 0.017, respectively). SOD was significantly negatively associated with TSH and positively associated with FT4. Of all the patients, 22.31% (NSOD: 66.67%; HSOD: 33.33%) had subclinical hypothyroidism (SH), and there were lower SOD levels in the SH group. Preoperative SOD was a protective factor for SH. After LSG, SOD and FT4 levels were increased at 12 months after LSG, however, TSH, FT3, total triiodothyronine (TT3) and TT4 levels decreased compared to the preoperative levels at 3, 6, and 12 months in the SH group. Postoperative changes in FT4 and TT4 levels correlated with changes in SOD levels. SOD, which is correlated with thyroid hormones, protects against SH in patients with obesity. The improvement in thyroid function with SH after LSG may be related to increased SOD levels.

Use of the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis Assay for the Detection of DNA-protective Dietary Factors: Results of Human Intervention Studies

The single cell gel electrophoresis technique is based on the measurement of DNA migration in an electric field and enables to investigate via determination of DNA-damage the impact of foods and their constituents on the genetic stability. DNA-damage leads to adverse effects including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and infertility. In the last 25 years approximately 90 human intervention trials have been published in which DNA-damage, formation of oxidized bases, alterations of the sensitivity towards reactive oxygen species and chemicals and of repair functions were investigated with this technique. In approximately 50% of the studies protective effects were observed. Pronounced protection was found with certain plant foods (spinach, kiwi fruits, onions), coffee, green tea, honey and olive oil. Also diets with increased contents of vegetables caused positive effects. Small amounts of certain phenolics (gallic acid, xanthohumol) prevented oxidative damage of DNA; with antioxidant vitamins and cholecalciferol protective effects were only detected after intake of doses that exceed the recommended daily uptake values. The evaluation of the quality of the studies showed that many have methodological shortcomings (lack of controls, no calibration of repair enzymes, inadequate control of the compliance and statistical analyses) which should be avoided in future investigations.

Impact of Bariatric Surgery on the Stability of the Genetic Material, Oxidation, and Repair of DNA and Telomere Lengths

Obesity causes genetic instability, which plays a key-role in the etiology of cancer and aging. We investigated the impact of bariatric surgery (BS) on DNA repair, oxidative DNA damage, telomere lengths, alterations of antioxidant enzymes and, selected proteins which reflect inflammation. The study was realized with BS patients (n = 35). DNA damage, base oxidation, BER, and NER were measured before and 1 month and 6 months after surgery with the single-cell gel electrophoresis technique. SOD and GPx were quantified spectrophotometrically, malondealdehyde (MDA) was quantified by HPLC. Telomere lengths were determined with qPCR, and plasma proteome profiling was performed with high-resolution mass spectrophotometry. Six months after the operations, reduction of body weight by 27.5% was observed. DNA damage decreased after this period, this effect was paralleled by reduced formation of oxidized DNA bases, a decline in the MDA levels and of BER and NER, and an increase in the telomere lengths. The activities of antioxidant enzymes were not altered. Clear downregulation of certain proteins (CRP, SAA1) which reflect inflammation and cancer risks was observed. Our findings show that BS causes reduced oxidative damage of DNA bases, possibly as a consequence of reduction of inflammation and lipid peroxidation, and indicate that the surgery has beneficial long-term health effects.

Significance of Singlet Oxygen Molecule in Pathologies

Reactive oxygen species, including singlet oxygen, play an important role in the onset and progression of disease, as well as in aging. Singlet oxygen can be formed non-enzymatically by chemical, photochemical, and electron transfer reactions, or as a byproduct of endogenous enzymatic reactions in phagocytosis during inflammation. The imbalance of antioxidant enzymes and antioxidant networks with the generation of singlet oxygen increases oxidative stress, resulting in the undesirable oxidation and modification of biomolecules, such as proteins, DNA, and lipids. This review describes the molecular mechanisms of singlet oxygen production in vivo and methods for the evaluation of damage induced by singlet oxygen. The involvement of singlet oxygen in the pathogenesis of skin and eye diseases is also discussed from the biomolecular perspective. We also present our findings on lipid oxidation products derived from singlet oxygen-mediated oxidation in glaucoma, early diabetes patients, and a mouse model of bronchial asthma. Even in these diseases, oxidation products due to singlet oxygen have not been measured clinically. This review discusses their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis. Recent developments in singlet oxygen scavengers such as carotenoids, which can be utilized to prevent the onset and progression of disease, are also described.

THE ANTIOXIDANT ROLE OF STORAX IN BORON COMPOUNDS INDUCED HACAT CELLS

Background: The skin is the first line of defense against microbial and chemical agents. Keratinocytes, represent the major component of the skin. Storax is thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. some substances in storax have a cytotoxic effect and that storax can be a source of oxidative stress. Boron compounds have a wide physiological effect on biological systems at low concentrations, are toxic at high concentrations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the oxidative effect of storax on boron compounds treated HaCaT keratinocytes in vitro. Methods: In order to determine the effect of boron compounds on cell viability and 50% lethal dose, the MTT method was employed, and the IC50 dose was found to be 1000 μg/ml borax and 250 μg/ml colemanite at 24th hour. To determine the antioxidant activity of storax cells treated with borax and colemanite with or without storax and then the oxidative stress index, SOD, GPx and MDA levels were evaluated with ELISA. Results: storax reduces the oxidative stress index through GPX, SOD and MDA activities. Conclusion: When all the results are evaluated, the idea arises, that storax can be used as a possible therapeutic agent in skin.

A multi-marker integrative analysis reveals benefits and risks of bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery (BS) is an effective intervention for severe obesity and associated comorbidities. Although several studies have addressed the clinical and metabolic effects of BS, an integrative analysis of the complex body response to surgery is still lacking. We conducted a longitudinal data study with 36 patients with severe obesity who were tested before, 6 and 12 months after restrictive BS for more than one hundred blood biomarkers, including clinical, oxidative stress and metabolic markers, peptide mediators and red blood cell membrane lipids. By using a synthetic data-driven modeling based on principal component and correlation analyses, we provided evidence that, besides the early, well-known glucose metabolism- and weight loss-associated beneficial effects of BS, a tardive, weight-independent increase of the hepatic cholesterol metabolism occurs that is associated with potentially detrimental inflammatory and metabolic effects. Canonical correlation analysis indicated that oxidative stress is the most predictive feature of the BS-induced changes of both glucose and lipids metabolism. Our results show the power of multi-level correlation analysis to uncover the network of biological pathways affected by BS. This approach highlighted potential health risks of restrictive BS that are disregarded with the current practice to use weight loss as surrogate of BS success.

Lipid Peroxidation in Obesity: Can Bariatric Surgery Help?

Obesity and chronic oxidative stress, often being associated with each other in a vicious circle, are important factors of chronic diseases. Although it was usually considered to accompany aging and wealth, global trends show the increase in obesity among children even in Third World countries. Being manifested by an imbalance between energy consumption and food intake, obesity is characterized by an excessive or abnormal fat accumulation, impaired redox homeostasis and metabolic changes often associated with the self-catalyzed lipid peroxidation generating 4-hydroxynonenal, pluripotent bioactive peroxidation product of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Conservative methods targeting obesity produced only modest and transient results in the treatment of morbid obesity. Therefore, in recent years, surgery, primarily bariatric, became an attractive treatment for morbid obesity. Since adipose tissue is well known as a stress organ with pronounced endocrine functions, surgery results in redox balance and metabolic improvement of the entire organism. The source of bioactive lipids and lipid-soluble antioxidants, and the complex pathophysiology of lipid peroxidation should thus be considered from the aspects of personalized and integrative biomedicine to treat obesity in an appropriate way.

Obesity, Inflammation, and Immune System in Osteoarthritis

Obesity remains the most important risk factor for the incidence and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). The leading cause of OA was believed to be overloading the joints due to excess weight which in turn leads to the destruction of articular cartilage. However, recent studies have proved otherwise, various other factors like adipose deposition, insulin resistance, and especially the improper coordination of innate and adaptive immune responses may lead to the initiation and progression of obesity-associated OA. It is becoming increasingly evident that multiple inflammatory cells are recruited into the synovial joint that serves an important role in pathological changes in the synovial joint. Polarization of macrophages and macrophage-produced mediators are extensively studied and linked to the inflammatory and destructive responses in the OA synovium and cartilage. However, the role of other major innate immune cells such as neutrophils, eosinophils, and dendritic cells in the pathogenesis of OA has not been fully evaluated. Although cells of the adaptive immune system contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity-induced OA is still under exploration, a quantity of literature indicates OA synovium has an enriched population of T cells and B cells compared with healthy control. The interplay between a variety of immune cells and other cells that reside in the articular joints may constitute a vicious cycle, leading to pathological changes of the articular joint in obese individuals. This review addresses obesity and the role of all the immune cells that are involved in OA and summarised animal studies and human trials and knowledge gaps between the studies have been highlighted. The review also touches base on the interventions currently in clinical trials, different stages of the testing, and their shortcomings are also discussed to understand the future direction which could help in understanding the multifactorial aspects of OA where inflammation has a significant function.

Impact of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass on Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Dynamics in Leukocytes of Obese Women

The chronic low-grade inflammation widely associated with obesity can lead to a prooxidant status that triggers mitochondrial dysfunction. To date, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is considered the most effective strategy for obese patients. However, little is known about its molecular mechanisms. This interventional study aimed to investigate whether RYGB modulates oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dynamics in the leukocytes of 47 obese women at one year follow-up. We evaluated biochemical parameters and serum inflammatory cytokines -TNFα, IL6 and IL1β- to assess systemic status. Total superoxide production -dHe-, mitochondrial membrane potential -TMRM-, leucocyte protein expression of inflammation mediators -MCP1 and NF-kB-, antioxidant defence -GPX1-, mitochondrial regulation—PGC1α, TFAM, OXPHOS and MIEAP- and dynamics -MFN2, MNF1, OPA1, FIS1 and p-DRP1- were also determined. After RYGB, a significant reduction in superoxide and mitochondrial membrane potential was evident, while GPX1 content was significantly increased. Likewise, a marked upregulation of the transcription factors PGC1α and TFAM, complexes of the oxidative phosphorylation chain (I–V) and MIEAP and MFN1 was observed. We conclude that women undergoing RYGB benefit from an amelioration of their prooxidant and inflammatory status and an improvement in mitochondrial dynamics of their leukocytes, which is likely to have a positive effect on clinical outcome.

NADPH Oxidases Connecting Fatty Liver Disease, Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Outlook

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by ectopic fat accumulation in hepatocytes, is closely linked to insulin resistance and is the most frequent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). One of the features connecting NAFLD, insulin resistance and T2DM is cellular oxidative stress. Oxidative stress refers to a redox imbalance due to an inequity between the capacity of production and the elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS). One of the major cellular ROS sources is NADPH oxidase enzymes (NOX-es). In physiological conditions, NOX-es produce ROS purposefully in a timely and spatially regulated manner and are crucial regulators of various cellular events linked to metabolism, receptor signal transmission, proliferation and apoptosis. In contrast, dysregulated NOX-derived ROS production is related to the onset of diverse pathologies. This review provides a synopsis of current knowledge concerning NOX enzymes as connective elements between NAFLD, insulin resistance and T2DM and weighs their potential relevance as pharmacological targets to alleviate fatty liver disease.

Metabolomic signatures after bariatric surgery - a systematic review

Metabolomics emerged as an important tool to gain insights on how the body responds to therapeutic interventions. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for severe obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities. Our aim was to conduct a systematic review of the available data on metabolomics profiles that characterize patients submitted to different bariatric surgery procedures, which could be useful to predict clinical outcomes including weight loss and type 2 diabetes remission. For that, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - PRISMA guidelines were followed. Data from forty-seven original study reports addressing metabolomics profiles induced by bariatric surgery that met eligibility criteria were compiled and summarized. Amino acids, lipids, energy-related and gut microbiota-related were the metabolite classes most influenced by bariatric surgery. Among these, higher pre-operative levels of specific lipids including phospholipids, long-chain fatty acids and bile acids were associated with post-operative T2D remission. As conclusion, metabolite profiling could become a useful tool to predict long term response to different bariatric surgery procedures, allowing more personalized interventions and improved healthcare resources allocation.

Genetic Variations on Redox Control in Cardiometabolic Diseases: The Role of Nrf2

The transcription factor Nrf2 is a master regulator of multiple cytoprotective genes that maintain redox homeostasis and exert anti-inflammatory functions. The Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway is a paramount target of many cardioprotective strategies, because redox homeostasis is essential in cardiovascular health. Nrf2 gene variations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), are correlated with cardiometabolic diseases and drug responses. SNPs of Nrf2, KEAP1, and other related genes can impair the transcriptional activation or the activity of the resulting protein, exerting differential susceptibility to cardiometabolic disease progression and prevalence. Further understanding of the implications of Nrf2 polymorphisms on basic cellular processes involved in cardiometabolic diseases progression and prevalence will be helpful to establish more accurate protective strategies. This review provides insight into the association between the polymorphisms of Nrf2-related genes with cardiometabolic diseases. We also briefly describe that SNPs of Nrf2-related genes are potential modifiers of the pharmacokinetics that contribute to the inter-individual variability.

Gender-Specific Behaviour in Obesity Stages I-II: Imbalance of Aminothiol Status and Adipomyokine Profile in Subjects with Different Insulin Resistance Severity

The hyperproduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, which is paralleled by decreased levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mediators, is part of cellular mechanisms that contribute to the disruption of metabolic homeostasis in obesity. Whether gender-specific alterations and gender-restricted associations in these biomarkers underlie the increased cardiometabolic risk in men compared to women is unclear. We enrolled 31 women and 29 men, aged ≥50 and ≤70 years and with body mass index ≥ 30 and <40 kg/m². We assessed the concentrations of aminothiols (cysteine, homocysteine, and glutathione), expression of oxidant/antioxidant balance, adipomyokines (leptin, adiponectin, myostatin, and interleukin-6), markers of chronic inflammation, and vitamin D, an index of nutritional state, in plasma and serum samples by using HPLC, ELISA, and chemiluminescent immunoassay methods. We measured insulin resistance (IR) by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index. Despite comparable levels of visceral adiposity, IR, and a similar dietary regimen, men showed, with respect to women, higher oxidant concentrations and lower antioxidant levels, which paralleled IR severity. Myostatin levels correlated with prooxidant aminothiols among men only. Gender-specific alterations in aminothiol status and adipomyokine profile and the gender-restricted association between these biomarkers and metabolic derangement are consistent with an increased cardiometabolic risk in men compared to age-matched women with stage I-II obesity. Strict control of redox and inflammatory status, even addressing gender-specific nutritional targets, may be useful to prevent obesity-related metabolic alterations and comorbidities.

Reduced Th1 response is associated with lower glycolytic activity in activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells after metabolic and bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Obesity promotes cellular immunometabolism changes that trigger the activation of macrophages and lymphocytes, leading to systemic inflammation. Activated leukocytes undergo metabolic reprogramming, increasing glycolytic activity.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether the reduction in the inflammatory state associated with bariatric surgery is associated with decreased glycolytic activity in leukocytes. Setting Single-center, prospective observational study.

METHODS

This study involved 18 patients with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. All measurements were performed preoperatively and six months postoperatively. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma were obtained to determine the glycolytic rate and mitochondrial membrane potential as surrogates of the metabolic switching and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, adipokines, and CD69 expression as inflammatory and activation markers.

RESULTS

Glycolytic activity engaged by CD3/CD28 activation was reduced six months after bariatric surgery, associated with decreased levels of T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 signature cytokines. An overall reduction in inflammatory markers was observed, which correlated with a higher adiponectin/leptin ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic and bariatric surgery-induced weight loss leads to reprogramming in T cells' metabolic machinery, resulting in reduced stimulation of glycolysis after activation, which may explain the decrease in systemic inflammation mediated by cytokines such as interferon-γ and interleukin-17A.

Quantification of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-guanosine concentrations in urine and plasma for estimating 24-h urinary output

Among markers for oxidative stress urinary excretion 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodGuo) and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-guanosine (8-oxoGuo) have been widely used in controlled and epidemiological studies, and are considered to represent intracellular markers of oxidation of DNA and RNA in the entire organism, respectively. Although being non-invasive, urinary methods have shortcomings. There is no established method for analysis of 8-oxodGuo and 8-oxoGuo in plasma and the few plasma values presented in the literature vary greatly. We here present a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry method with full validation for analysis of 8-oxodGuo and 8-oxoGuo in plasma. Further, we investigated the basis for our previously physiological model and show that a single plasma sample can be used to estimate the 24-h production of 8-oxoGuo, whereas we challenge the use of urinary 8-oxodGuo/creatinine ratio or plasma 8-oxodGuo as measures of oxidative stress.

The Effectiveness of Glutathione Redox Status as a Possible Tumor Marker in Colorectal Cancer

The role of oxidative stress (OS) in cancer is a matter of great interest due to the implication of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their oxidation products in the initiation of tumorigenesis, its progression, and metastatic dissemination. Great efforts have been made to identify the mechanisms of ROS-induced carcinogenesis; however, the validation of OS byproducts as potential tumor markers (TMs) remains to be established. This interventional study included a total of 80 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and 60 controls. By measuring reduced glutathione (GSH), its oxidized form (GSSG), and the glutathione redox state in terms of the GSSG/GSH ratio in the serum of CRC patients, we identified significant changes as compared to healthy subjects. These findings are compatible with the effectiveness of glutathione as a TM. The thiol redox state showed a significant increase towards oxidation in the CRC group and correlated significantly with both the tumor state and the clinical evolution. The sensitivity and specificity of serum glutathione levels are far above those of the classical TMs CEA and CA19.9. We conclude that the GSSG/GSH ratio is a simple assay which could be validated as a novel clinical TM for the diagnosis and monitoring of CRC.

Redox changes in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes

"Life is an instantaneous encounter of circulating matter and flowing energy" (Jean Giaja, Serbian physiologist), is one of the most elegant definitions not only of life but the relationship of redox biology and metabolism. Their evolutionary liaison has created inseparable yet dynamic homeostasis in health, which, when disrupted, leads to disease. This interconnection is even more pertinent today, in an era of increasing metabolic diseases of epidemic proportions such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes. Despite great advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of redox and metabolic regulation, we face significant challenges in preventing, diagnosing, and treating metabolic diseases. The etiological association and temporal overlap of these syndromes present significant challenges for the discrimination of appropriate clinical biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment, and outcome prediction. These multifactorial, multiorgan metabolic syndromes with complex etiopathogenic mechanisms are accompanied by disturbed redox equilibrium in target tissues and circulation. Free radicals and reactive species are considered both a causal factor and a consequence of disease status. Thus, determining the subtypes and levels of free radicals and reactive species, oxidatively damaged biomolecules (lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) and antioxidant defense components as well as redox-sensitive transcription factors and fluxes of redox-dependent metabolic pathways will help define existing and establish novel redox biomarkers for stratifying metabolic diseases. This review aims to discuss diverse redox/metabolic aspects in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, with the imperative to help establish a platform for emerging and future redox-metabolic biomarkers research in precision medicine. Future research warrants detailed investigations into the status of redox biomarkers in healthy subjects and patients, including the use of emerging 'omic' profiling technologies (e.g., redox proteomes, lipidomes, metabolomes, and transcriptomes), taking into account the influence of lifestyle (diet, physical activity, sleep, work patterns) as well as circadian ~24h fluctuations in circulatory factors and metabolites.

The Immunophenotyping Changes of Peripheral CD4+ T Lymphocytes and Inflammatory Markers of Class III Obesity Subjects After Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve Surgery - A Follow-Up Study

Purpose

Obesity is a chronic disorder characterized by a low-grade inflammatory state and immune cell irregularities. The study aimed to follow up on the changes in the peripheral CD4+ T lymphocytes and the pro-inflammatory cytokines; IL-6, TNF-alpha, MCP-1, and IL-10 at baseline and 12 weeks post-surgical intervention by the laparoscopic gastric sleeve (LGS) in morbidly obese patients (class III obesity subjects).

Materials and Methods

A prospective longitudinal research included 24 class III obesity subjects with a BMI > 40 kg/m². The subjects were enrolled from the Metabolic/Surgical Department at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)-Qatar. Fasting blood samples were collected at admission to LGS for weight loss and after 12 weeks of LGS. The immunophenotype of CD4+ T-cell populations; naïve (CD45RA⁺and CD27⁺), central memory T cells (CD45RO⁺ and CD27⁺), and effector memory (CD45RO⁺and CD27^-) and T-regulatory cell (CD4+CD25+ FoxP3+) were identified using flow cytometry. Plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines were evaluated. A control group of lean subjects was used to compare changes of T-regulatory and inflammatory biomarkers with postoperative changes in obese patients.

Results

The means (SD) of age and BMI of class III obesity subjects was 32.32 (8.36) years and 49.02 (6.28) kg/m^2, respectively. LGS caused a significant reduction in BMI by 32%, p<0.0001. LGS intervention significantly decreased CD4+ T-lymphocytes and effector memory (TEM) cells but increased T-regulatory (Treg), naïve, and central memory (TCM) cells, with all p values < 0.05. The increase of Treg cells postoperative is significantly lower compared to lean subjects, p < 0.05. A significant reduction of plasma IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1, but IL-10 significantly increased after LGS, with all p<0.05. Adiponectin/leptin ratio improved after LGS by 2.9 folds, p<0.0001.

Conclusion

Weight loss by LGS accomplished a substantial rise of Treg and decreased EM T-lymphocytes with a shift from pro-inflammatory to the anti-inflammatory pattern.

Obese Adipose Tissue as a Driver of Breast Cancer Growth and Development: Update and Emerging Evidence

Obesity is an established risk factor for breast cancer growth and progression. A number of advances have been made in recent years revealing new insights into this link. Early events in breast cancer development involve the neoplastic transformation of breast epithelial cells to cancer cells. In obesity, breast adipose tissue undergoes significant hormonal and inflammatory changes that create a mitogenic microenvironment. Many factors that are produced in obesity have also been shown to promote tumorigenesis. Given that breast epithelial cells are surrounded by adipose tissue, the crosstalk between the adipose compartment and breast epithelial cells is hypothesized to be a significant player in the initiation and progression of breast cancer in individuals with excess adiposity. The present review examines this crosstalk with a focus on obese breast adipose-derived estrogen, inflammatory mediators and adipokines, and how they are mechanistically linked to breast cancer risk and growth through stimulation of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and pro-oncogenic transcriptional programs. Pharmacological and lifestyle strategies targeting these factors and their downstream effects are evaluated for feasibility and efficacy in decreasing the risk of obesity-induced breast epithelial cell transformation and consequently, breast cancer development.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy Differently Affect Oxidative Damage Markers and their Correlations with Body Parameters

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery improves oxidative damage, but little is known about the differences between Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). This study compared changes in lipid and protein oxidative damage markers and their correlations with body parameters of patients before and after RYGB or SG.

METHODS

Body mass index (BMI), bioimpedance parameters, and biochemical parameters including lipid and protein oxidative damage markers were evaluated before and 6 months after surgery. Data were analyzed by t test or Mann-Whitney rank sum test and Spearman's correlation coefficient between oxidative damage and other parameters.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients were submitted to RYGB and 14 to SG. There was a significant decrease of BMI, fat mass, fat-free mass, phase angle, serum total protein, transthyretin, and C-reactive protein in both groups (p < 0.05). Serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and serum lipids (p < 0.05) were significantly decreased in the RYGB group. TBARS levels were significantly correlated with serum total cholesterol (r = 0.468), LDL (r = 0.439), BMI (r = 0.424), and fat mass (r = 0.40) (p < 0.05). In the SG group, AOPP levels were significantly correlated with serum C-reactive protein (baseline: r = 0.53, 6 months: r = 0.64) (p < 0.05). Alterations in these levels were negatively correlated with changes in BIA parameters [resistance (r = -0.574), reactance (r = -0.736), and phase angle (r = 0.549)] (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB seems to be better in attenuating oxidative damage after 6 months. The BMI reduction in the RYGB group suggests a concomitant decrease of lipid oxidative damage. In the SG group, changes in BIA parameters were inversely correlated with protein oxidative damage.

Reduction of oxidative stress on DNA and RNA in obese patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery-An observational cohort study of changes in urinary markers

Increased oxidative stress in obesity and diabetes is associated with morbidity and mortality risks. Levels of oxidative damage to DNA and RNA can be estimated through measurement of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2´-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine (8-oxoGuo) in urine. Both markers have been associated with type 2 diabetes, where especially 8-oxoGuo is prognostic for mortality risk. We hypothesized that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery that has considerable effects on bodyweight, hyperglycemia and mortality, might be working through mechanisms that reduce oxidative stress, thereby reducing levels of the urinary markers. We used liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry to analyze the content of 8-oxodG and 8-oxoGuo in urinary samples from 356 obese patients treated with the RYGB-procedure. Mean age (SD) was 44.2 (9.6) years, BMI was 42.1 (5.6) kg/m2. Ninety-six (27%) of the patients had type 2 diabetes. Excretion levels of each marker before and after surgery were compared as estimates of the total 24-hour excretion, using a model based on glomerular filtration rate (calculated from cystatin C, age, height and weight), plasma- and urinary creatinine. The excretion of 8-oxodG increased in the first months after RYGB. For 8-oxoGuo, a gradual decrease was seen. Two years after RYGB and a mean weight loss of 35 kg, decreased hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, excretion levels of both markers were reduced by approximately 12% (P < 0.001). For both markers, mean excretion levels were about 30% lower in the female subgroup (P < 0.0001). Also, in this subgroup, excretion of 8-oxodG was significantly lower in patients with than without diabetes. We conclude, that oxidative damage to nucleic acids, reflected in the excretion of 8-oxodG and 8-oxoGuo, had decreased significantly two years after RYGB-indicating that reduced oxidative stress could be contributing to the many long-term benefits of RYGB-surgery in obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Ameliorates Diabetes-Related Spleen Damage by Improving Oxidative Stress Status in Diabetic Obese Rats

PURPOSE

Oxidative stress and inflammation are important pathogenic mediators in diabetes-related organ damage. Accumulating evidence suggests that immunodeficiency in diabetes is associated with diabetes-induced spleen damage. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has been proved to improve diabetes and its multiple associated complications. However, the ameliorative role of SG against spleen damage in diabetes has not been investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animal model of diabetic obese rats induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) was treated with sham operation, caloric restriction, and SG. Metabolic parameters were measured, and the morphological and histopathological changes, status of oxidative stress, and levels of inflammatory factors were evaluated.

RESULTS

SG reduced body weight and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic obese rats. SG significantly reversed splenic atrophy and alleviated abnormalities of white and red pulp. Additionally, SG also reversed the increased splenocyte apoptosis (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, indicators of oxidative stress including reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonylation were reduced, and the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes including SOD and CAT were improved after SG. The mRNA expression of inflammatory factors in SG groups such as TNF-α (P < 0.001), IL-6 (P < 0.001), MCP-1 (P < 0.01), and ICAM-1 (P < 0.001) was also significantly reduced.

CONCLUSION

SG ameliorates diabetes-related splenic injury by restoring the balance between oxidative stress process and antioxidant defense systems as well as reducing inflammation in the spleen. These findings indicate that SG is an appropriate therapeutic strategy for diabetes-related spleen damage.

First Case Report of Fulminant Hepatitis After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Associated with Concomitant Maximal Therapeutic Dose of Acetaminophen Use, Protein Calorie Malnutrition, and Vitamins A and D, Selenium, and Glutathione Deficiencies

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly being linked to obesity. Although laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is effective for weight loss that can ultimately resolve NAFLD, an initial transient deterioration of liver functions could be observed during the first few months post-operatively, after which a subsequent improvement of the liver functions might occur. Rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and protein malnutrition can all contribute to hepatic dysfunction and can affect the metabolism of medications such as acetaminophen leading to more insult to a compromised liver. We report acute liver failure after LSG associated with protein calorie malnutrition, multiple nutritional deficiencies in addition to concomitant use of therapeutic doses of acetaminophen. Treatment with N-acetylcysteine, and replacement of deficient multivitamins and trace elements resulted in significant improvement in liver functions.

Effect of Roux-en-Y Bariatric Bypass Surgery on Subclinical Atherosclerosis and Oxidative Stress Markers in Leukocytes of Obese Patients: A One-Year Follow-Up Study

Little is known about the mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effect of Roux en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether weight loss associated with RYGB improves the oxidative status of leukocytes and ameliorates subclinical atherosclerotic markers. This is an interventional study of 57 obese subjects who underwent RYGB surgery. We determined biochemical parameters and qualitative analysis of cholesterol, leukocyte and systemic oxidative stress markers —superoxide production, glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and protein carbonylation—, soluble cellular adhesion molecules —sICAM-1 and sP-selectin—, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and leukocyte-endothelium cell interactions—rolling flux, velocity and adhesion. RYGB induced an improvement in metabolic parameters, including hsCRP and leukocyte count (p < 0.001, for both). This was associated with an amelioration in oxidative stress, since superoxide production and protein carbonylation were reduced (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and antioxidant systems were enhanced (GPX1; p < 0.05 and SOD; p < 0.01). In addition, a significant reduction of the following parameters was observed one year after RYGB: MPO and sICAM (p < 0.05, for both), sPselectin and pattern B of LDL particles (p < 0.001, for both), and rolling flux and adhesion of leukocytes (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Our results suggest that patients undergoing RYGB benefit from an amelioration of the prooxidant status of leukocytes, metabolic outcomes, and subclinical markers of atherosclerosis.

Effect of RYGB on Oxidative Stress in Adults: a 6-Year Follow-up Study

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is effective for weight loss but may have long-term effects on markers of oxidative stress (OS). The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of bariatric surgery with RYGB on OS blood markers in a 72-month period after surgery.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted with 20 patients before and after RYGB (months M0, M6, M12, M24, and M72) compared with a control group of 35 adults assessed only once.

RESULTS

The body mass index (BMI) (45.71 ± 6.97  kg/m²) decreased by 38% from M0 to M24 (17.51 ± 5.50 kg/m², p < 0.001), followed by a 12% increase from M24 to M72 (p < 0.001). Serum concentrations of vitamin E (adjusted for total cholesterol and triglycerides) and vitamin C increased throughout the study (p < 0.001). β-carotene levels decreased progressively through to M72 (p = 0.008). Reduced glutathione (GSH) content and catalase (CAT) activity decreased at M6, M12, and M24, but no differences were found at M72 compared with M0. Concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were lower M12 and M24 in comparison with baseline values (p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively) but were similar to baseline values at 72 months (p = 0.114).

CONCLUSIONS

GSH content, TBARS concentrations, and CAT activity returned to baseline values 72 months after RYGB, indicating the persistence of systemic OS, possibly attributable to weight regain and/or changes in the antioxidant defenses, such as the reduction in β-carotene levels.

Influence of bariatric surgery induced weight loss on oxidative DNA damage

Obesity is associated with elevated cancer risk, which may be represented by elevated genomic damage. Oxidative stress plays a key role in obesity related detrimental health consequences including DNA oxidation damage. The elevated cancer risk in obesity may be a consequence. Weight loss has been shown to reduce genomic damage, but the role of oxidative stress in that has not been clarified. The aim of this study is therefore to investigate the influence of bariatric surgery induced weight loss on DNA oxidation damage in morbidly obese subjects. For this aim, we used cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the FPG comet assay. Advanced protein oxidation products and 3-nitrotyrosine were measured as oxidative and nitrative protein stress markers. Furthermore, expression of oxidative stress related proteins HSP70 and Nrf2 as well as mitochondrial enzyme citrate synthase and NADPH oxidase subunit p22 phox were analysed. Our findings revealed significantly reduced DNA strand breaks, but DNA base oxidation was not reduced. We observed significant reduction in plasma AOPPs and 3-nitrotyrosine, which indicated an improvement in oxidative/nitrative stress. However, expression of HSP70 and Nrf2 were not altered after weight loss. In addition, expression of citrate synthase and p22 phox were also unaltered. Overall, bariatric surgery induced significant reduction in excess body weight and improved the patients' health status, including reduced DNA strand breaks and slightly improved antioxidant status in some of the investigated endpoints, while cellular ROS formation and DNA oxidation damage stayed unaltered. This complex situation may be due to combined beneficial effects of weight loss and burdening of the body with fat breakdown products. In the future, collecting samples two years after surgery, when patients have been in a weight plateau for some time, might be a promising approach.

Interplay between the Adaptive Immune System and Insulin Resistance in Weight Loss Induced by Bariatric Surgery

Low-grade chronic inflammation plays a pivotal role among other pathophysiological mechanisms involved in obesity. Innate and adaptive immune cells undergo systemic proinflammatory polarization that gives rise to an increased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, which in turn leads to insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery is currently the most effective treatment for obesity, as it brings on significant weight loss, glucose metabolism improvement, and a decrease in systemic inflammation biomarkers. After bariatric surgery, several changes have been reported to occur in adaptive immunity, including reduction in CD4+ and CD8+ T cell counts, a decrease in the Th1/Th2 ratio, an increase in B regulatory cells, and reduction in proinflammatory cytokine secretion. Overall, there seems to be a major shift in several lymphocyte populations from a proinflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Furthermore, increased antioxidant activity and reduced lipid and DNA oxidation products have been reported after bariatric surgery in circulating mononuclear cells. This paper highlights the shift in the adaptive immune system in response to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity, as well as the interplay between immunological and metabolic adaptations as a result of bariatric surgery. Finally, based on data from research, we propose several mechanisms such as changes in adaptive immune cell phenotypes and their by-products, recruitment in adipose tissue, reduced oxidative stress, and modification in metabolic substrate availability as drivers to reduce low-grade chronic inflammation after bariatric surgery in severe obesity.

Changes in oxidative stress markers and cardiometabolic risk factors among Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients after 3- and 12-months postsurgery follow-up

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows potential reduction in oxidative stress after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. However, this outcome can vary, with postsurgery time, type of markers significantly altered, and possible relation with cardiometabolic risk markers, thus indicating the need for more studies.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate changes in oxidative stress and its relation with cardiometabolic risk markers in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients after 3 and 12 months postsurgery.

SETTING

Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil.

METHODS

All data were collected before surgery and after 3 and 12 months postsurgery. Biochemical data were collected, and insulin resistance was determined by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, triglyceride/glucose index, and triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Additionally, catalase, superoxide dismutase, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, nitric oxide, carbonylated protein, and malondialdehyde were analyzed.

RESULTS

After 3 months postsurgery, excess weight loss was 46%. It increased to 82% after 12 months. We observed a significant reduction in levels of serum insulin, triglycerides, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, triglyceride/glucose index, and triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol indices and nitric oxide, throughout the entire study period. Also, reduced levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, serum glucose, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase were observed at 3 and 12 months postsurgery compared with baseline. On the other hand, reduction in ferric-reducing antioxidant power occurred only at 3 months postsurgery. We also observed that nitric oxide was positively correlated with triglycerides, percent excess weight loss, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride/glucose index.

CONCLUSION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is able to reduce oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and improve lipid profile after 3 and 12 months postsurgery. Furthermore, changes in oxidative stress and cardiometabolic risk markers are correlated.

Obesity and cancer: A mechanistic overview of metabolic changes in obesity that impact genetic instability

Obesity, defined as a state of positive energy balance with a body mass index exceeding 30 kg/m2 in adults and 95th percentile in children, is an increasing global concern. Approximately one-third of the world's population is overweight or obese, and in the United States alone, obesity affects one in six children. Meta-analysis studies suggest that obesity increases the likelihood of developing several types of cancer, and with poorer outcomes, especially in children. The contribution of obesity to cancer risk requires a better understanding of the association between obesity-induced metabolic changes and its impact on genomic instability, which is a major driving force of tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss how molecular changes during adipose tissue dysregulation can result in oxidative stress and subsequent DNA damage. This represents one of the many critical steps connecting obesity and cancer since oxidative DNA lesions can result in cancer-associated genetic instability. In addition, the by-products of the oxidative degradation of lipids (e.g., malondialdehyde, 4-hydroxynonenal, and acrolein), and gut microbiota-mediated secondary bile acid metabolites (e.g., deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid), can function as genotoxic agents and tumor promoters. We also discuss how obesity can impact DNA repair efficiency, potentially contributing to cancer initiation and progression. Finally, we outline obesity-related epigenetic changes and identify the gaps in knowledge to be addressed for the development of better therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related cancers.

The role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in the metabolic alterations in diet-induced obesity in rats

The impact of the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoQ was evaluated in the metabolic alterations and the adipose tissue remodeling associated with obesity. Male Wistar rats were fed either a high-fat diet (HFD; 35% fat) or a standard diet (3.5% fat) for 7 wk and treated with MitoQ (200 µM). A proteomic analysis of visceral adipose tissue from patients with obesity and patients without obesity was performed. MitoQ partially prevented the increase in body weight, adiposity, homeostasis model assessment index, and adipose tissue remodeling in HFD rats. It also ameliorated protein level changes of factors involved in insulin signaling observed in adipose tissue of obese rats: reductions in adiponectin and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT 4) and increases in dipeptidylpeptidase 4, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and insulin receptor substrate 1 phosphorylation. MitoQ prevented down-regulation of adiponectin and GLUT 4 and increases in SOCS3 levels in a TNF-α-induced insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 adipocyte model. MitoQ also ameliorated alterations in mitochondrial proteins observed in obese rats: increases in cyclophylin F and carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A and reductions in mitofusin1, peroxiredoxin 4, and fumarate hydratase. The proteomic analysis of the visceral adipose tissue from patients with obesity show alterations in mitochondrial proteins similar to those observed in obese rats. Therefore, the data show the beneficial effect of MitoQ in the metabolic dysfunction induced by obesity.-Marín-Royo, G., Rodríguez, C., Le Pape, A., Jurado-López, R., Luaces, M., Antequera, A., Martínez-González, J., Souza-Neto, F. V., Nieto, M. L., Martínez-Martínez, E., Cachofeiro, V. The role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in the metabolic alterations in diet-induced obesity in rats.

Correlation between Body Mass Index and Homa Index in Bariatric Patients

Background and aims: Overweight and obese individuals are prone to an insulin resistance status assessed in the present study by the HOMA index ("Homeostasis model assessment"). This prospective study assessed the body mass index (BMI) and the insulin resistance status (HOMA index) in obese patients after bariatric surgery (gastric sleeve, gastric by-pass).

Material and Methods: The study included 48 patients who were assessed before the bariatric surgery and at 6 months thereafter. The assessment included the body mass index (BMI) and the HOMA index before meal.

Results: There was a significant positive correlation between BMI and HOMA index, mostly between weight loss and improvement in insulin resistance status (rho = 0.308, p = 0.0335).

Conclusions: BMI decreases significantly after bariatric surgery, which correlates positively with an improvement in insulin resistance status.

Liver Fat Is Associated With Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Analysis of Data From the Framingham Heart Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is an inflammatory condition that results in progressive liver disease. It is unknown if individuals with hepatic steatosis, but not known to have liver disease, have higher serum concentrations of markers of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.

METHODS

We collected data from 2482 participants from the Framingham Heart Study (mean age, 51 ± 11 y; 51% women) who underwent computed tomography and measurement of 14 serum markers of systemic inflammation. Heavy alcohol users were excluded. The liver:phantom ratio (a continuous parameter of liver attenuation relative to a calibration phantom) was used to identify individuals with radiographic evidence of liver fat. Primary covariates included age, sex, smoking, alcohol, aspirin use, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Body mass index and visceral fat were secondary covariates. We used multivariable linear regression models to assess the association between liver fat and systemic inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

In multivariable-adjusted models, liver fat was associated with the following inflammatory markers: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P < .001), urinary isoprostanes (P < .001), interleukin 6 (P < .001), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (P < .001), and P-selectin (P = .002). Additional adjustment for body mass index or visceral fat attenuated the results slightly, although all associations remained statistically significant (P for all ≤ .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In a community-based cohort, individuals with hepatic steatosis without known liver disease had higher mean serum concentrations of systemic markers of inflammation. Studies are needed to determine whether treatment of hepatic steatosis reduces systemic inflammation.

Therapeutic potential of melatonin related to its role as an autophagy regulator: A review

There are several pathologies, syndromes, and physiological processes in which autophagy is involved. This process of self-digestion that cells trigger as a survival mechanism is complex and tightly regulated, according to the homeostatic conditions of the organ. However, in all cases, its relationship with oxidative stress alterations is evident, following a pathway that suggests endoplasmic reticulum stress and/or mitochondrial changes. There is accumulating evidence of the beneficial role that melatonin has in the regulation and restoration of damaged autophagic processes. In this review, we focus on major physiological changes such as aging and essential pathologies including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, viral infections and obesity, and document the essential role of melatonin in the regulation of autophagy in each of these different situations.

Delayed Guillain-Barré Syndrome after Bariatric Surgery: A Report of Three Cases

Surgeries carry a risk of complications. Polyneuropathies, including Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), are potential complications of bariatric surgery. The incidence of these conditions is expected to increase as these surgeries become increasingly popular. We present a case report of three patients who developed a polyneuropathy after bariatric surgery. GBS was diagnosed in each patient, with nutritional deficiencies being suspected as a contributing factor. All patients began a 5-day intravenous immunoglobulin course in addition to receiving rehabilitative support, multivitamins, intravenous thiamine, vitamin D (therapeutic dose), and selenium. The patients' symptoms improved but did not completely resolve. GBS can be a complication of bariatric surgery. Although a clear cause-effect relationship cannot be established for the present cases, the cumulative literature on the subject suggests that it is important to include it as a potential risk when counseling patients for such surgeries.

Impact of a (poly)phenol-rich extract from the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum on DNA damage and antioxidant activity in an overweight or obese population: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Epidemiologic evidence suggests that a diet rich in (poly)phenols has beneficial effects on many chronic diseases. Brown seaweed is a rich source of (poly)phenols.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the bioavailability and effect of a brown seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) (poly)phenol extract on DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation in vivo.

Design

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted in 80 participants aged 30-65 y with a body mass index (in kg/m2) ≥25. The participants consumed either a 400-mg capsule containing 100 mg seaweed (poly)phenol and 300 mg maltodextrin or a 400-mg maltodextrin placebo control capsule daily for an 8-wk period. Bioactivity was assessed with a panel of blood-based markers including lymphocyte DNA damage, plasma oxidant capacity, C-reactive protein (CRP), and inflammatory cytokines. To explore the bioavailability of seaweed phenolics, an untargeted metabolomics analysis of urine and plasma samples after seaweed consumption was determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

Consumption of the seaweed (poly)phenols resulted in a modest decrease in DNA damage but only in a subset of the total population who were obese. There were no significant changes in CRP, antioxidant status, or inflammatory cytokines. We identified phlorotannin metabolites that are considered potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption including pyrogallol/phloroglucinol-sulfate, hydroxytrifurahol A-glucuronide, dioxinodehydroeckol-glucuronide, diphlorethol sulfates, C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol sulfate, and C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first comprehensive study investigating the bioactivity and bioavailability of seaweed (poly)phenolics in human participants. We identified several potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption. Intriguingly, the modest improvements in DNA damage were observed only in the obese subset of the total population. The subgroup analysis should be considered exploratory because it was not preplanned; therefore, it was not powered adequately. Elucidation of the biology underpinning this observation will require participant stratification according to weight in future studies. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02295878.

Weight loss program is associated with decrease α-tocopherol status in obese adults

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Studies on changes in plasma α-tocopherol levels during body fat reduction in obese persons are not clear. The aim of the present study was to assess factors associated with α-tocopherol status in obese people and to examine changes in α-tocopherol status after a 6-week AntioxObesity weight loss program.

METHODS

The study was conducted in 60 overweight or obese adults, aged 18-54 years old. Food intake data were collected using the 3-day record method and a semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements included: height (H), body weight, waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC), body composition: fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM), subcutaneous fat (SF) and visceral fat (VF). Lipid profile, α-tocopherol concentration, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in plasma and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in erythrocytes were determined.

RESULTS

Energy, fat, and carbohydrate intakes decreased significantly in all subjects (P < 0.001). Body weight, WC, body mass index (BMI), waist-to height ratio (WHtR), and FM, VF and SF decreased significantly during the 6 weeks in all subjects. Plasma α-tocopherol significantly decreased during the program (P = 0.006). No changes were observed for SOD activity, but GPx activity and TAC decreased significantly (P = 0.001; P = 0,023, respectively). Plasma α-tocopherol concentration after 6 weeks of the AntioxObesity program was strongly associated with baseline plasma α-tocopherol, changes in TC, VF and FM. Low α-tocopherol status (<20 μmol/L) was found in 78% of the women and 68% of the men, after 6 weeks of the AntioxObesity program. Men were characterized by a greater decrease in weight, BMI, WC, FM, VF, SF and TAC compared to women.

CONCLUSIONS

A 6-week weight loss program lowered α-tocopherol status in overweight and obese people. Low baseline α-tocopherol status and adiposity in obese adults negatively affected α-tocopherol status after 6 weeks weight loss program. These results, coupled with excessive weight and low α-tocopherol intake, led to the finding that there was an increased risk of oxidative stress diseases in adults on a reduced diet. Long-term dietary restriction program for obese patients should be monitored to avoid α-tocopherol deficiency, and take into account higher dietary α-tocopherol requirements for obese people.

Antioxidant Status in the Soleus Muscle of Sprague-Dawley Rats in Relation to Duodenal-Jejunal Omega Switch and Different Dietary Patterns

Background

Obesity and chronic ingestion of lipid-rich meals are related to an enhanced oxidative stress (OS).

Aims

To examine the influence of duodenal-jejunal omega switch surgery in combination with different diets on the antioxidative status in the soleus muscle of rats.

Methods

After 8 weeks on a high-fat diet (HF) or control diet (CD), rats underwent duodenal-jejunal omega switch (DJOS) or SHAM (control) surgery. After surgery, for the next 8 weeks, half of DJOS/SHAM animals were kept on the same diet as before, and half had a changed diet. The total superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and glutathione reductase (GR) activity as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were measured in the soleus of rats.

Results

CAT and GPx activity were significantly lower after DJOS surgery versus SHAM, regardless of the type of diet. The activity of CAT, SOD, GR, CuZnSOD, and GPx was altered in the CD/HF or HF/CD groups. After DJOS, the lowest muscle concentration of MDA was observed in the CD/CD group and the highest in CD/HF.

Conclusions

DJOS surgery significantly decreases the antioxidative system in soleus muscles of rats. CD/HF and HF/CD dietary patterns lead to an increase in antioxidative activity, while remaining on unchanged diet (CD or HF) is associated with a reduced oxidative stress.

Chemerin, Inflammatory, and Nitrooxidative Stress Marker Changes Six Months after Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background

Chemerin is a chemokine known to be increased in morbidly obese (MO) patients and correlated with markers of inflammation and nitrooxidative stress. We aimed to evaluate the changes of serum chemerin six months after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and to asses if these changes are accompanied by variations of inflammatory and nitrooxidative stress markers.

Material and Methods

We investigated the levels of chemerin, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), nitrite and nitrate (NOx), total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant response (TAR), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in a group of 24 MO patients submitted to SG before and six months after surgery. The MO group was compared with 20 controls.

Results

hsCRP (p < 0.001), NOx (p < 0.001), TOS (p < 0.001), TAR (p = 0.007), and OSI (p = 0.001) were significantly different between the two groups. Six months after surgery, we noticed significant changes (42.28% decrease) of hsCRP (p = 0.044) and OSI (p = 0.041) (31.81% decrease), while no significant changes were observed for chemerin (p = 0.605), TNF-α (p = 0.287), NOx (p = 0.137), TOS (p = 0.158), and TAR (p = 0.563).

Conclusions

Our study showed no significant changes of chemerin, and except for hsCRP and OSI, no other inflammatory and nitrooxidative stress markers changed six months after surgery.

Investigating structure-property relationships of biomineralized calcium phosphate compounds as fluorescent quenching-recovery platform

The structure-property relationship between biomineralized calcium phosphate compounds upon a fluorescent quenching-recovery platform and their distinct crystalline structure and surficial functional groups are investigated. A fluorescence-based sensing platform is shown to be viable for the sensing of 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy-guanosine in simulated systems.

The Effect of Moderate- Versus High-Intensity Resistance Training on Systemic Redox State and DNA Damage in Healthy Older Women

This study investigated effects of a 16-week progressive resistance training program (RTP) with elastic bands at two different intensities on systemic redox state, DNA damage, and physical function in healthy older women.

Methods:

Participants were randomly assigned to the high-intensity group (HIGH; n = 39), moderate-intensity group (MOD; n = 31), or control group (CG; n = 23). The exercise groups performed an RTP twice a week with three to four sets of 6 (HIGH) or 15 (MOD) repetitions of six overall body exercises at a perceived exertion rate of 8–9 on the OMNI-Resistance Exercise Scale for use with elastic bands. Thiol redox state was determined by reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and GSSG/GSH in blood mononuclear cells. Degree of DNA damage was assessed by presence of the oxidized DNA base molecule 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in urine. Physical function monitoring was based on the arm curl, chair stand, up and go, and 6-min walk tests.

Results:

The HIGH group showed a significant increase in 8-OHdG (+71.07%, effect size [ES] = 1.12) and a significant decrease in GSH (−10.91, ES = −0.69), while the MOD group showed a significant decrease in 8-OHdG levels (−25.66%, ES = −0.69) with no changes in thiol redox state. GSH levels differed significantly between the HIGH and CG groups posttest. The exercise groups showed significant improvements in physical function with no differences between groups.

Conclusion:

RTP at a moderate rather than high intensity may be a better strategy to reduce DNA damage in healthy older women while also increasing independence.