Magnesium. An update on physiological, clinical and analytical aspects

The magnesium depletion score is associated with increased likelihood of kidney stone disease among female adults

OBJECT

The association between magnesium depletion score (MDS) and kidney stone disease (KSD) remains unknown. This study was designed to investigate the association of MDS with KSD in adults.

METHODS

A total of 19,654 participants were enrolled from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). The MDS was calculated by assessing four aspects, including alcohol assumption, renal function, and use of diuretics and proton pump inhibitor. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to explore the associations between MDS and the prevalence of KSD. Linear correlations were conducted explore the relationship of testosterone with MDS.

RESULTS

In the multivariable logistic regressions with full adjustment for confounding variables, the odds ratio of MDS associating with KSD was 1.28 (95% CI: 1.04-1.58, P = 0.022) in total population, and 1.70 (95% CI: 1.16-2.50, P=0.007) in female participants. Besides, compared to the lowest MDS, the highest MDS was associated with a lower testosterone (β = -16.39, P=0.009) after full adjustment in non-menopause women.

CONCLUSION

This study highlighted a positive correlation of high MDS with KSD in female population, which may be associated low level of serum testosterone.

Odontogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of magnesium-doped bioactive glass in vital pulp therapy

This study aimed to investigate the effects of magnesium-doped bioactive glass (Mg-BG) on the mineralization, odontogenesis, and anti-inflammatory abilities of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Mg-BG powders with different Mg concentrations were successfully synthesized via the sol-gel method and evaluated using x-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Apatite formation was observed on the surfaces of the materials after soaking in simulated body fluid. hDPSCs were cultured with Mg-BG powder extracts in vitro, and no evident cytotoxicity was observed. Mg-BG induced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) expression and mineralization of hDPSCs and upregulated the expression of odontogenic genes, including those encoding dentin sialophosphoprotein, dentin matrix protein 1, ALP, osteocalcin, and runt-related transcription factor 2. Moreover, Mg-BG substantially suppressed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-4, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha). Collectively, the results of this study suggest that Mg-BG has excellent in vitro bioactivity and is a potential material for vital pulp therapy of inflamed pulps.

Hypomagnesemia may be related to frailty, gait and balance problems, and basic activities of daily living in older adults

OBJECTIVES

The study aims to investigate the relationship between hypomagnesemia, preclinical hypomagnesemia, and normomagnesemia as along with geriatric syndrome and comprehensive geriatric parameters(CGA).

METHODS

217 patients who applied to the geriatric clinic between November 2022 and December 2023 were included in the study. All patients underwent CGA. Patients were categorized into three groups: Magnesium (Mg) level ≤ 1.5 mg/dL, Mg level 1.5-1.8 mg/dL, and Mg level > 1.8 mg/dL. These three groups were compared in terms of demographic characteristics, comorbidities, CGA parameters, and geriatric syndromes. Regression analyses was conducted for significant parameters, adjusting for confounders.

RESULTS

74.9% of all participants were female, with an average age of 76.5 ± 6.6 years. The frequency of hypomagnesemia was 14.2%. Demographic characteristics and medication use, including proton pump inhibitors and diuretics, were similar in these three groups. While the FRIED frailty scale and the duration of the timed-up-and-go test were higher in the hypomagnesemia group, the Basic Activities Daily of Living (ADLs) and the Tinetti-POMA(performance-oriented mobility assessment) scores were lower in the hypomagnesemia group. When normomagnesemia was accepted as the reference category, FRIED frailty scale, Basic ADLs, and POMA score were more significant in the hypomagnesemia group (p = 0.025, p = 0.013 and p = 0.011,respectively), but there was no significance in the preclinical hypomagnesemia group regardless of the covariates.

CONCLUSION

Hypomagnesemia, particularly serum Mg levels below 1.5 mg/dL, may be associated with frailty, basic ADLs, gait, and balance tests. In geriatric practice, patients with hypomagnesemia should be evaluated in terms of the risk of the mentioned disorders.

Alteration of epidermal lipid composition as a result of deficiency in the magnesium transporter Nipal4

Lipids in the stratum corneum play an important role in the formation of the skin permeability barrier. The causative gene for congenital ichthyosis, NIPAL4, encodes a Mg2+ transporter and is involved in increases in intracellular Mg2+ concentrations that depend on keratinocyte differentiation. However, the role of this increased Mg2+ concentration in skin barrier formation and its effect on the lipid composition of the stratum corneum has remained largely unknown. Therefore, in the present study, we performed a detailed analysis of epidermal lipids in Nipal4 KO mice via TLC and MS. Compared with WT mice, the Nipal4 KO mice showed compositional changes in many ceramide classes (including decreases in ω-O-acylceramides and increases in ω-hydroxy ceramides), together with increases in ω-hydroxy glucosylceramides, triglycerides, and free fatty acids and decreases in ω-O-acyl hydroxy fatty acids containing a linoleic acid. We also found increases in unusual ω-O-acylceramides containing oleic acid or palmitic acid in the KO mice. However, there was little change in levels of cholesterol or protein-bound ceramides. The TLC analysis showed that some unidentified lipids were increased, and the MS analysis showed that these were special ceramides called 1-O-acylceramides. These results suggest that elevated Mg2+ concentrations in differentiated keratinocytes affect the production of various lipids, resulting in the lipid composition necessary for skin barrier formation.

Lack of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of mPEG-silane coated iron(III) oxide nanoparticles doped with magnesium despite cellular uptake in cancerous and noncancerous lung cells

Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of novel mPEG-silane coated iron(III) oxide nanoparticles doped with magnesium (Mg0.1-γ-Fe2O3(mPEG-silane)0.5) have been investigated on human adenocarcinomic alveolar basal epithelial (A549) and human normal bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells. In the studies several molecular and cellular targets addressing to cell membrane, cytoplasm organelles and nucleus components were served as toxicological endpoints. The as-synthesized nanoparticles were found to be stable in the cell culture media and were examined for different concentration and exposure times. No cytotoxicity of the tested nanoparticles was found although these nanoparticles slightly increased reactive oxygen species in both cell types studied. Mg0.1-γ-Fe2O3(mPEG-silane)0.5 nanoparticles did not produce any DNA strand breaks and oxidative DNA damages in A549 and BEAS-2B cells. Different concentration of Mg0.1-γ-Fe2O3(mPEG-silane)0.5 nanoparticles and different incubation time did not affect cell migration. The lung cancer cells' uptake of the nanoparticles was more effective than in normal lung cells. Altogether, the results evidence that mPEG-silane coated iron(III) oxide nanoparticles doped with magnesium do not elucidate any deleterious effects on human normal and cancerous lung cells despite cellular uptake of these nanoparticles. Therefore, it seems reasonable to conclude that these novel biocompatible nanoparticles are promising candidates for further development towards medical applications.

Nano-Enhanced Phase Reinforced Magnesium Matrix Composites: A Review of the Matrix, Reinforcement, Interface Design, Properties and Potential Applications

Magnesium matrix composites are essential lightweight metal matrix composites, following aluminum matrix composites, with outstanding application prospects in automotive, aerospace lightweight and biomedical materials because of their high specific strength, low density and specific stiffness, good casting performance and rich resources. However, the inherent low plasticity and poor fatigue resistance of magnesium hamper its further application to a certain extent. Many researchers have tried many strengthening methods to improve the properties of magnesium alloys, while the relationship between wear resistance and plasticity still needs to be further improved. The nanoparticles added exhibit a good strengthening effect, especially the ceramic nanoparticles. Nanoparticle-reinforced magnesium matrix composites not only exhibit a high impact toughness, but also maintain the high strength and wear resistance of ceramic materials, effectively balancing the restriction between the strength and toughness. Therefore, this work aims to provide a review of the state of the art of research on the matrix, reinforcement, design, properties and potential applications of nano-reinforced phase-reinforced magnesium matrix composites (especially ceramic nanoparticle-reinforced ones). The conventional and potential matrices for the fabrication of magnesium matrix composites are introduced. The classification and influence of ceramic reinforcements are assessed, and the factors influencing interface bonding strength between reinforcements and matrix, regulation and design, performance and application are analyzed. Finally, the scope of future research in this field is discussed.

The role of different nutrients in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular health is a hot topic around the world, and as the incidence of cardiovascular disease increases each year, people are increasingly focusing on the management of their heart health. Dietary and lifestyle changes as non-pharmacological treatments have been increasingly recognized as important in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and in reducing the risk of cardiovascular accidents. Awareness of different nutrients and their effects on cardiovascular health is important for establishing a good dietary pattern. This review summarizes the effects of the five major nutrients in the daily diet, namely carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fats, vitamins, and minerals, on cardiovascular health, and aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of a healthy dietary pattern on cardiovascular health.

Silk Fibroin-Laponite Porous Microspheres as Cell Microcarriers for Osteogenic Differentiation

Silk fibroin (SF) has garnered significant attention as a natural polymer for fabricating porous scaffolds in various engineering applications. However, the limited osteoinductive property of SF has hindered its efficacy in bone repair applications. In this study, we constructed an SF-based injectable porous microcarrier that is doped with laponite (LAP), containing magnesium ions (Mg2+). The influence of freezing temperatures and concentrations of SF and LAP on the structural parameters of SF-LAP microcarriers was investigated. The SF-LAP microcarrier exhibited a porosity of 76.7 ± 1.2% and a controlled pore size of 24.6 ± 4.0 μm. At the 6 weeks of in vitro degradation test, a mild alkaline level in culture medium containing SF-LAP microcarriers was detected. The release of Mg2+ from the SF-LAP microcarrier was maintained at a concentration within the range of 1.2-2.3 mM during the 6 weeks. The seeded human adipose-derived stem cells in the SF-LAP microcarrier demonstrated a significant enhancement in osteogenic differentiation compared with cells seeded in the pure SF microcarrier, as evidenced by quantitative alkaline phosphatase activity and the expression of osteogenic marker genes. These findings underscore the potential of the SF-LAP microcarrier as an ideal cell carrier in the treatment of bone defects.

Restoration of gut dysbiosis through Clostridium butyricum and magnesium possibly balance blood glucose levels: an experimental study

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by an elevated level of blood glucose due to the absence of insulin secretion, ineffectiveness, or lack of uptake of secreted insulin in the body. The improperly diagnosed and poorly managed DM can cause severe damage to organs in the body like the nerves, eyes, heart, and kidneys. This study was aimed at investigating the effect of Clostridium butyricum (probiotic) with magnesium supplementation to evaluate the effect on gut microbial dysbiosis and blood glucose levels. In the laboratory, 6-8 weeks old 24 male albino rats weighing 200-250 g were given free access to water and food. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) in overnight fasted rats. Diabetic rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6, 6 replicates in each group). Metformin (100 mg/kg/day) with a standard basal diet was provided to control group (G0), Clostridium butyricum (1.5 × 105 CFU/day) with standard basal diet was provided to treatment group (G1), magnesium (500 mg/kg/day) was provided to group (G2). Clostridium butyricum (1.5 × 105 CFU/day) and magnesium (300 mg/kg/day) in combination with a standard basal diet was provided to group (G3). Blood Glucose, Magnesium blood test and microbial assay were done. Random blood glucose levels were monitored twice a week for 21 days and were represented as mean of each week. The results conclude that Clostridium butyricum (1.5 × 105 CFU) is very effective in balancing random blood glucose levels from 206.6 ± 67.7 to 85.1 ± 3.8 (p = 0.006) compared to other groups (p > 0.005). The results of stool analysis showed that Clostridium butyricum as probiotic restores microbial dysbiosis as evident by the 105 CFU Clostridium butyricum load in G1, which was higher than G0, G2 and G3 which were 103 and 104 CFU respectively. The findings of this study conclude that Clostridium butyricum supplementation improved blood glucose levels and intestinal bacterial load in type II diabetes mellitus.

Magnesium Is a Vital Ion in the Body-It Is Time to Consider Its Supplementation on a Routine Basis

The importance of maintaining proper magnesium intake and total body magnesium content in preserving human health remains underappreciated among medical professionals and laymen. This review aimed to show the importance of hypomagnesemia as a modifiable risk factor for developing disease processes. We searched the PubMed database and Google Scholar using the keywords 'magnesium', 'diabetes', 'cardiovascular disease', 'respiratory disease', 'immune system', 'inflammation', 'autoimmune disease', 'neurology', 'psychiatry', 'cognitive function', 'cancer', and 'vascular calcification'. In multiple contexts of the search terms, all reviews, animal experiments, and human observational data indicated that magnesium deficiency can lead to or contribute to developing many disease states. The conclusions of several in-depth reviews support our working hypothesis that magnesium and its supplementation are often undervalued and underutilized. Although much research has confirmed the importance of proper magnesium supply and tissue levels, simple and inexpensive magnesium supplementation has not yet been sufficiently recognized or promoted.

Association of serum magnesium levels with renal prognosis in patients with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Magnesium deficiency is associated with various health conditions, but its impact on the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum magnesium levels and prognosis of renal function in CKD patients.

METHODS

This is an analysis of the Japan Chronic Kidney Disease Database Ex　(J-CKD-DB-Ex), which is a multicenter prospective cohort including CKD patients enrolled from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2020. We included adult outpatients with CKD stage G3 and G4 at the time of initial magnesium measurement. Patients were classified by magnesium levels as low (<1.7 mg/dl), normal (1.7-2.6 mg/dl), or high (>2.6 mg/dl). The primary outcomes were the composite of an eGFR < 15 ml/min/1.73 m2 or a ≥30% reduction in eGFR from the initial measurement, which was defined as CKD progression. We applied the Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression hazard model to examine the association between magnesium levels and CKD progression.

RESULTS

The analysis included 9868 outpatients during the follow-up period. The low magnesium group was significantly more likely to reach CKD progression. Cox regression, adjusting for covariates and using the normal magnesium group as the reference, showed that the hazard ratio for the low magnesium group was 1.20 (1.08-1.34). High magnesium was not significantly associated with poor renal outcomes compared with normal magnesium.

CONCLUSION

Based on large real-world data, this study demonstrated that low magnesium levels are associated with poorer renal outcomes.

Magnesium and the Hallmarks of Aging

Magnesium is an essential ion in the human body that regulates numerous physiological and pathological processes. Magnesium deficiency is very common in old age. Age-related chronic diseases and the aging process itself are frequently associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, called 'inflammaging'. Because chronic magnesium insufficiency has been linked to excessive generation of inflammatory markers and free radicals, inducing a chronic inflammatory state, we formerly hypothesized that magnesium inadequacy may be considered among the intermediaries helping us explain the link between inflammaging and aging-associated diseases. We show in this review evidence of the relationship of magnesium with all the hallmarks of aging (genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, altered intercellular communication, disabled autophagy, dysbiosis, and chronic inflammation), which may positively affect the human healthspan. It is feasible to hypothesize that maintaining an optimal balance of magnesium during one's life course may turn out to be a safe and economical strategy contributing to the promotion of healthy aging. Future well-designed studies are necessary to further explore this hypothesis.

Associations between dietary magnesium intake and hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia

Hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia significantly impact chronic diseases and mortality. Magnesium is an essential nutrient for maintaining critical physiological functions, and magnesium deficiency is often associated with adverse health outcomes. In a cross-sectional study of US adults, we aimed to explore dietary magnesium intake and its association with the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia in US adults over 20 years of age in NHANES 2007-2018. We obtained data on 24,171 samples of hypertension, 9950 samples of diabetes, and 12,149 samples of hyperlipidemia. We used multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for multiple sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors, with participants subdivided into five groups based on quintiles of daily dietary magnesium. After adjusting for the major lifestyle and dietary variables, an independent and significant inverse relationship between dietary magnesium and hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia was observed. Compared with the lowest quintile of magnesium intake, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia was significantly reduced in the highest magnesium quintile. The OR of hypertension in the highest quintile was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.51-0.87; P trend < 0.001), the OR of diabetes was 0.56 (95% CI: 0.39-0.81; P trend < 0.001), and the OR of hyperlipidemia was 0.68 (95% confidence interval: 0.53-0.86; P trend = 0.007). In the subgroup analysis, most of the inverse relationships persisted. Our findings highlight the potential of magnesium-rich foods to prevent hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia in US adults. This article summarizes and discuss recent findings on: 1) A high dietary magnesium intake was associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension; 2) An inverse relationship between dietary magnesium with diabetes hyperlipidemia; 3) Monitoring and management of magnesium was important.

Exploring the Osteogenic Potential of Zinc-Doped Magnesium Phosphate Cement (ZMPC): A Novel Material for Orthopedic Bone Defect Repair

In orthopedics, the repair of bone defects remains challenging. In previous research reports, magnesium phosphate cements (MPCs) were widely used because of their excellent mechanical properties, which have been widely used in the field of orthopedic medicine. We built a new k-struvite (MPC) cement obtained from zinc oxide (ZnO) and assessed its osteogenic properties. Zinc-doped magnesium phosphate cement (ZMPC) is a novel material with good biocompatibility and degradability. This article summarizes the preparation method, physicochemical properties, and biological properties of ZMPC through research on this material. The results show that ZMPC has the same strength and toughness (25.3 ± 1.73 MPa to 20.18 ± 2.11 MPa), that meet the requirements of bone repair. Furthermore, the material can gradually degrade (12.27% ± 1.11% in 28 days) and promote osteogenic differentiation (relative protein expression level increased 2-3 times) of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) in vitro. In addition, in vivo confirmation revealed increased bone regeneration in a rat calvarial defect model compared with MPC alone. Therefore, ZMPC has broad application prospects and is expected to be an important repair material in the field of orthopedic medicine.

Imaging of plant calcium-sensor kinase conformation monitors real time calcium-dependent decoding in planta

Changes in cytosolic calcium (Ca2+) concentration are among the earliest reactions to a multitude of stress cues. While a plethora of Ca2+-permeable channels may generate distinct Ca2+ signatures and contribute to response specificities, the mechanisms by which Ca2+ signatures are decoded are poorly understood. Here, we developed a genetically encoded Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based reporter that visualizes the conformational changes in Ca2+-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs/CPKs). We focused on two CDPKs with distinct Ca2+-sensitivities, highly Ca2+-sensitive Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) AtCPK21 and rather Ca2+-insensitive AtCPK23, to report conformational changes accompanying kinase activation. In tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) pollen tubes, which naturally display coordinated spatial and temporal Ca2+ fluctuations, CPK21-FRET, but not CPK23-FRET, reported oscillatory emission ratio changes mirroring cytosolic Ca2+ changes, pointing to the isoform-specific Ca2+-sensitivity and reversibility of the conformational change. In Arabidopsis guard cells, CPK21-FRET-monitored conformational dynamics suggest that CPK21 serves as a decoder of signal-specific Ca2+ signatures in response to abscisic acid and the flagellin peptide flg22. Based on these data, CDPK-FRET is a powerful approach for tackling real-time live-cell Ca2+ decoding in a multitude of plant developmental and stress responses.

Improving diagnosis and treatment of hypomagnesemia

Magnesium is one of the most abundant cations in the body and acts as a cofactor in more than 600 biochemical reactions. Hypomagnesemia is a highly prevalent condition, especially in subjects with comorbid conditions, but has received less attention than other electrolyte disturbances. This review will discuss magnesium physiology, absorption, storage, distribution across the body, and kidney excretion. After reviewing the regulation of magnesium homeostasis, we will focus on the etiology and clinical presentation of hypomagnesemia. The role of laboratory medicine in hypomagnesemia will be the main purpose of this review, and we will discuss the laboratory tests and different samples and methods for its measurement. Although free magnesium is physiologically active, total serum magnesium is the most commonly used measurement in laboratory medicine and is apt for clinical purposes; however, it is not appropriately used, and many patients with hypomagnesemia remain undiagnosed and not treated. Using information technologies, laboratory medicine can largely improve the diagnosis and treatment of hypomagnesemia through the design and establishment of automatic demand management and result management interventions by acting in the first and last steps of the laboratory cycle, test requests, and actions taken after test results, to unmask patients with hypomagnesemia and improve the number of patients undergoing treatment.

Polarizable AMOEBA Model for Simulating Mg2+·Protein·Nucleotide Complexes

Molecular mechanics (MM) simulations have the potential to provide detailed insights into the mechanisms of enzymes that utilize nucleotides as cofactors. In most cases, the activities of these enzymes also require the binding of divalent cations to catalytic sites. However, modeling divalent cations in MM simulations has been challenging. The inclusion of explicit polarization was considered promising, but despite improvements over nonpolarizable force fields and despite the inclusion of "Nonbonded-fix (NB-fix)" corrections, errors in interaction energies of divalent cations with proteins remain large. Importantly, the application of these models fails to reproduce the experimental structural data on Mg2+·Protein·ATP complexes. Focusing on these complexes, here we provide a systematic assessment of the polarizable AMOEBA model and recommend critical changes that substantially improve its predictive performance. Our key results are as follows. We first show that our recent revision of the AMOEBA protein model (AMOEBABIO18-HFC), which contains high field corrections (HFCs) to induced dipoles, dramatically improves Mg2+-protein interaction energies, reducing the mean absolute error (MAE) from 17 to 10 kcal/mol. This further supports the general applicability of AMOEBABIO18-HFC. The inclusion of many-body NB-fix corrections further reduces MAE to 6 kcal/mol, which amounts to less than 2% error. The errors are estimated with respect to vdW-inclusive density functional theory that we benchmark against CCSD(T) calculations and experiments. We also present a new model of ATP with revised polarization parameters to better capture its high field response, as well as new vdW and dihedral parameters. The ATP model accurately predicts experimental Mg2+-ATP binding free energy in the aqueous phase and provides new insights into how Mg2+ associates with ATP. Finally, we show that molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of Mg2+·Kinase·ATP complexes carried out with these improvements lead to a better agreement in global and local catalytic site structures between MD and X-ray crystallography.

A Bioactive Gelatin-Methacrylate Incorporating Magnesium Phosphate Cement for Bone Regeneration

Maintaining proper mechanical strength and tissue volume is important for bone growth at the site of a bone defect. In this study, potassium magnesium phosphate hexahydrate (KMgPO4·6H2O, MPC) was applied to gelma-methacrylate hydrogel (GelMA) to prepare GelMA/MPC composites (GMPCs). Among these, 5 GMPC showed the best performance in vivo and in vitro. These combinations significantly enhanced the mechanical strength of GelMA and regulated the degradation and absorption rate of MPC. Considerably better mechanical properties were noted in 5 GMPC compared with other concentrations. Better bioactivity and osteogenic ability were also found in 5 GMPC. Magnesium ions (Mg2+) are bioactive and proven to promote bone tissue regeneration, in which the enhancement efficiency is closely related to Mg2+ concentrations. These findings indicated that GMPCs that can release Mg2+ are effective in the treatment of bone defects and hold promise for future in vivo applications.

Metal profiling in coronary ischemia-reperfusion injury: Implications for KEAP1/NRF2 regulated redox signaling

Coronary ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury results from a blockage of blood supply to the heart followed by restoration of perfusion, leading to oxidative stress induced pathological processes. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a master antioxidant transcription factor, plays a key role in regulating redox signaling. Over the past decades, the field of metallomics has provided novel insights into the mechanism of pro-oxidant and antioxidant pathological processes. Both redox-active (e.g. Fe and Cu) and redox-inert (e.g. Zn and Mg) metals play unique roles in establishing redox balance under IR injury. Notably, Zn protects against oxidative stress in coronary IR injury by serving as a cofactor of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase [Cu-Zn] (SOD1) and proteins such as metallothionein (MT) and KEAP1/NRF2 mediated antioxidant defenses. An increase in labile Zn2+ inhibits proteasomal degradation and ubiquitination of NRF2 by modifying KEAP1 and glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) conformations. Fe and Cu catalyse the formation of reactive oxygen species via the Fenton reaction and also serve as cofactors of antioxidant enzymes and can activate NRF2 antioxidant signaling. We review the evidence that Zn and redox-active metals Fe and Cu affect redox signaling in coronary cells during IR and the mechanisms by which oxidative stress influences cellular metal content. In view of the unique double-edged characteristics of metals, we aim to bridge the role of metals and NRF2 regulated redox signaling to antioxidant defenses in IR injury, with a long-term aim of informing the design and application of novel therapeutics.

Monitoring of ionized magnesium in hemodialysis patients: A useful tool to allow a personalized prescription of dialysate composition

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The dialysate magnesium (Mg) concentration is a major determinant of Mg balance in hemodialysis. This study aimed to assess the systemic variations of total (tMg) and ionized Mg (iMg) during a dialysis session using acetate or citrate fluids and 0.5 or 0.75 mM Mg.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

134 patients in maintenance hemodialysis were assigned to a dialysis session with 4 different dialysates: acetate fluid with 0.5 mM Mg (1) or 0.75 mM Mg (2), citrate fluid with 0.5 mM Mg (3) or 0.75 mM Mg (4). Ionized form was measured by direct ion-selective electrode.

RESULTS

A Mg loss was observed in both acetate (0.12 and 0.08 mmol/L) and citrate (0.13 and 0.14 mmol/L for tMg and iMg, respectively) fluid groups containing 0.5 mM Mg. The use of acetate and citrate dialysates with 0.75 mM Mg led to a significant median intra-dialytic increase of 0.15 and 0.08 mmol/L for tMg, respectively. A significant augmentation in iMg concentration with acetate (0.11 mmol/L) but not with citrate dialysate (0.02 mmol/L) was observed.

CONCLUSION

While a dialysate Mg concentration at 0.5 mM leads to a negative balance, increasing the concentration to 0.75 mM significantly raises post-dialysis circulating Mg. Monitoring of iMg should allow a personalized prescription in dialysate Mg.

Metallic Materials for Bone Repair

Repair of large bone defects caused by trauma or disease poses significant clinical challenges. Extensive research has focused on metallic materials for bone repair because of their favorable mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and manufacturing processes. Traditional metallic materials, such as stainless steel and titanium alloys, are widely used in clinics. Biodegradable metallic materials, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc alloys, are promising candidates for bone repair because of their ability to degrade over time. Emerging metallic materials, such as porous tantalum and bismuth alloys, have gained attention as bone implants owing to their bone affinity and multifunctionality. However, these metallic materials encounter many practical difficulties that require urgent improvement. This article systematically reviews and analyzes the metallic materials used for bone repair, providing a comprehensive overview of their morphology, mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and in vivo implantation. Furthermore, the strategies and efforts made to address the short-comings of metallic materials are summarized. Finally, the perspectives for the development of metallic materials to guide future research and advancements in clinical practice are identified.

Changes in the urinary proteome of rats after short-term intake of magnesium L-threonate(MgT)

Introduction

Magnesium (Mg) is an important mineral in living organisms. Magnesium has multiple functions in the human body, wherein it plays an important therapeutic and preventive role in a variety of diseases.

Methods

Urine samples of rats before and after gavage of magnesium L-threonate (MgT) were collected, and the urinary proteome was identified using the LC-MS/MS technique and analyzed using various databases.

Results and discussion

The results illustrated that the urinary proteome of rats was significantly altered after short-term intake of magnesium supplements and that the differential proteins and the biological functions were related to magnesium. This study innovatively establishes a method to study nutrients from the perspective of urine proteomics. This work demonstrates that the urinary proteome is capable of reflecting the effects of nutrient intake on the organism in a more systematic and comprehensive manner and has the potential to provide clues for clinical nutrition research and practice.

The Integral Role of Magnesium in Muscle Integrity and Aging: A Comprehensive Review

Aging is characterized by significant physiological changes, with the degree of decline varying significantly among individuals. The preservation of intrinsic capacity over the course of an individual's lifespan is fundamental for healthy aging. Locomotion, which entails the capacity for independent movement, is intricately connected with various dimensions of human life, including cognition, vitality, sensory perception, and psychological well-being. Notably, skeletal muscle functions as a pivotal nexus within this intricate framework. Any perturbation in its functionality can manifest as compromised physical performance and an elevated susceptibility to frailty. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a central role in approximately 800 biochemical reactions within the human body. Its distinctive physical and chemical attributes render it an indispensable stabilizing factor in the orchestration of diverse cellular reactions and organelle functions, thereby rendering it irreplaceable in processes directly impacting muscle health. This narrative review offers a comprehensive exploration of the pivotal role played by magnesium in maintaining skeletal muscle integrity, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining optimal magnesium levels for promoting healthy aging.

Recent advancements in Mg-based micromotors for biomedical and environmental applications

Synthetic micro/nanomotors have attracted considerable attention due to their promising potential in the field of biomedicine. Despite their great potential, major micromotors require chemical fuels or complex devices to generate external physical fields for propulsion. Therefore, for future practical medical and environmental applications, Mg-based micromotors that exhibit water-powered movement and thus eliminate the need for toxic fuels, and that display optimal biocompatibility and biodegradability, are attracting attention. In this review, we summarized the recent microarchitectural design of Mg-based micromotors for biomedical applications. We also highlight the mechanism for realizing their water-powered motility. Furthermore, recent biomedical and environmental applications of Mg-based micromotors are introduced. We envision that advanced Mg-based micromotors will have a profound impact in biomedicine.

Dysmagnesemia as a predictor of developing diabetic levels of hemoglobin A1c

The aim of this study was to assess the possible association between P-Mg and subsequent high levels of HbA1c. The study involves data from primary health care patients and data from patients treated in hospitals located in the capital region of Denmark. P-Mg and HbA1c levels were analyzed from 121,575 patients in the period 2010-2022. Patients were categorized in a diabetic and non-diabetic group. Out of 121,575 patients, 8,532 were categorized as diabetic. A reverse J-shaped association between P-Mg and HbA1c levels ≥ 48 mmol/mol was observed with nadir at P-Mg of 0.90 mmol/L. The unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) for having a first HbA1c measurement ≥ 48 mmol/mol is 1.54 (95% Cl 1.50; 1.57) per 0.1 mmol/L decrease in P-Mg when P-Mg is lower than 0.90 mmol/L. After adjusting for age and gender, the HR remained significant at 1.45 (95% Cl 1.41; 1.48).For P-Mg levels above 0.90 mmol/L, the unadjusted HR per 0.1 mmol/L increase in P-Mg was 1.04 (95% Cl 1.02; 1.06). After adjusting for age and gender the HR remained significant at 1.06 (95% Cl 1.05; 1.08). In conclusion, this study found that patients with dysmagnesemia have a higher risk of developing diabetes even after adjusting for age and gender. Hyper- or hypomagnesemia in patients could be a biomarker for predicting the risk of developing diabetes.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis to Estimate a Reference Range for Circulating Ionized Magnesium Concentrations in Adult Populations

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of consensus on a reference range for ionized magnesium (iMg2+) in blood as a measure of the status of circulating iMg2+ for the screening of populations.

OBJECTIVES

We estimated the reference range of iMg2+ levels for healthy adult populations and the ranges for populations with cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and renal disease. We also estimated 95% ranges for circulating magnesium (Mg) in healthy and those with cardiometabolic diseases.

METHODS

We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase through 24 July, 2020 to identify articles. We included English, peer-reviewed, randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies that measured iMg2+ in blood or circulating Mg at baseline. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020216100). Estimated ranges were calculated by employing a frequentist random-effects model using extracted (or calculated) means and SDs from each included study. We determined the 95% confidence interval of the pooled mean.

RESULTS

A total of 95 articles were included with 53 studies having data for healthy participants and 42 studies having data for participants with cardiometabolic diseases. The estimated reference range for iMg2+ for healthy populations was 0.40-0.68 mmol/L, 0.38-0.64 mmol/L for CVD, 0.34-0.66 mmol/L for type 2 diabetes, 0.39-1.04 mmol/L for hypertension, and 0.40-0.76 mmol/L for renal disease. For circulating Mg, the estimated range was 0.72-1.0 mmol/L for healthy adults, 0.56-1.05 mmol/L for CVD, 0.58-1.14 mmol/L for type 2 diabetes, 0.60-1.08 mmol/L for hypertension, and 0.59-1.26 mmol/L for renal disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Estimated reference ranges for cardiometabolic disease states for both iMg2+ and circulating Mg were broad and overlapped with the estimated range for healthy populations (0.40-0.68 mmol/L). Further studies should evaluate whether iMg2+ can be used as a biomarker of cardiometabolic disease.

Cryo-EM structures of human magnesium channel MRS2 reveal gating and regulatory mechanisms

Magnesium ions (Mg2+) play an essential role in cellular physiology. In mitochondria, protein and ATP synthesis and various metabolic pathways are directly regulated by Mg2+. MRS2, a magnesium channel located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, mediates the influx of Mg2+ into the mitochondrial matrix and regulates Mg2+ homeostasis. Knockdown of MRS2 in human cells leads to reduced uptake of Mg2+ into mitochondria and disruption of the mitochondrial metabolism. Despite the importance of MRS2, the Mg2+ translocation and regulation mechanisms of MRS2 are still unclear. Here, using cryo-EM we report the structures of human MRS2 in the presence and absence of Mg2+ at 2.8 Å and 3.3 Å, respectively. From the homo-pentameric structures, we identify R332 and M336 as major gating residues, which are then tested using mutagenesis and two cellular divalent ion uptake assays. A network of hydrogen bonds is found connecting the gating residue R332 to the soluble domain, potentially regulating the gate. Two Mg2+-binding sites are identified in the MRS2 soluble domain, distinct from the two sites previously reported in CorA, a homolog of MRS2 in prokaryotes. Altogether, this study provides the molecular basis for understanding the Mg2+ translocation and regulatory mechanisms of MRS2.

Serum Magnesium Is Associated with Long-Term Survival of Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients

BACKGROUND

Low serum magnesium (sMg) is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerotic disease.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between sMg levels on admission and clinical outcomes in hospitalized non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients admitted to a single tertiary center with a primary diagnosis of NSTEMI. Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease were excluded. Clinical data were collected and compared between lower sMg quartile patients (Q1; sMg < 1.9 mg/dL) and all other patients (Q2-Q4; sMg ≥ 1.9 mg/dL).

RESULTS

The study cohort included 4552 patients (70% male, median age 69 [IQR 59-79]) who were followed for a median of 4.4 (IQR 2.4-6.6) years. The median sMg level in the low sMg group was 1.7 (1.6-1.8) and 2.0 (2.0-2.2) mg/dL in the normal/high sMg group. The low sMg group was older (mean of 72 vs. 67 years), less likely to be male (64% vs. 72%), and had higher rates of comorbidities, including diabetes, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation (59% vs. 29%, 92% vs. 85%, and 6% vs. 5%; p < 0.05 for all). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated significantly higher cumulative death probability at 4 years in the low sMg group (34% vs. 22%; p log rank <0.001). In a multivariable analysis model adjusted for sex, significant comorbidities, coronary interventions during the hospitalization, and renal function, the low sMg group exhibited an independent 24% increased risk of death during follow up (95% CI 1.11-1.39; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Low sMg is independently associated with higher risk of long-term mortality among patients recovering from an NSTEMI event.

Effect of mineral elements on the formation of gallbladder stones using spectroscopic techniques

Long-standing gallbladder stones have been recognized as one of the highest risk factors for gallbladder cancer. However, the growth and progression of gallbladder stones are still not well-known, and their uncovering requires accurate information on the formation/nucleation and complex compositional information of gallstones. Multiple and single gallstones are analyzed using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Spectral signatures as well as spatial variation in the spectral intensities of different elements are observed in the LIBS spectra of the gallstones. In the multiple-type gallstones, the concentration of inorganic content increases from core to periphery, whereas a single gallstone shows the opposite trend from the point of nucleation/core. It is suggested that the concentration of inorganic elements (Mg, Ca, K, and Na) plays an important role in the nucleation and growth of gallstones; thus, accordingly, multiple- and single-type gallstones are found in the gallbladder. The presence of different electronic bands of molecules, such as CH, C2, CN, and NH, is confirmed by LIBS and FTIR. PAS has identified molecules, such as cholesterol, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate, in different gallstone samples. These results show that PAS combined with LIBS is a promising candidate for the compositional analysis of gallstones. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) is used to discriminate different layers present in the gallstones.

Cryo-EM structures of human magnesium channel MRS2 reveal gating and regulatory mechanisms

Magnesium ions (Mg2+) play an essential role in cellular physiology. In mitochondria, protein and ATP synthesis and various metabolic pathways are directly regulated by Mg2+. MRS2, a magnesium channel located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, mediates the influx of Mg2+ into the mitochondrial matrix and regulates Mg2+ homeostasis. Knockdown of MRS2 in human cells leads to reduced uptake of Mg2+ into mitochondria and disruption of the mitochondrial metabolism. Despite the importance of MRS2, the Mg2+ translocation and regulation mechanisms of MRS2 are still unclear. Here, using cryo-EM we determined the structure of human MRS2 in the presence and absence of Mg2+ at 2.8 Å and 3.3 Å, respectively. From the homo-pentameric structures, we identified R332 and M336 as major gating residues, which were then tested using mutagenesis and two cellular divalent ion uptake assays. A network of hydrogen bonds was found connecting the gating residue R332 to the soluble domain, potentially regulating the gate. Two Mg2+-binding sites were identified in the MRS2 soluble domain, distinct from the two sites previously reported in CorA, a homolog of MRS2 in prokaryotes. Altogether, this study provides the molecular basis for understanding the Mg2+ translocation and regulatory mechanisms of MRS2.

Association of magnesium and vitamin D status with grip strength and fatigue in older adults: a 4-week observational study of geriatric participants undergoing rehabilitation

BACKGROUND

Low magnesium and vitamin D levels negatively affect individuals' health.

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the association of magnesium status with grip strength and fatigue scores, and evaluate whether this association differs by vitamin D status among older participants undergoing geriatric rehabilitation.

METHODS

This is a 4-week observational study of participants aged ≥ 65 years undergoing rehabilitation. The outcomes were baseline grip strength and fatigue scores, and 4-week change from baseline in grip strength and fatigue scores. The exposures were baseline magnesium tertiles and achieved magnesium tertiles at week 4. Pre-defined subgroup analyses by vitamin D status (25[OH]D < 50 nmol/l = deficient) were performed.

RESULTS

At baseline, participants (N = 253, mean age 75.7 years, 49.4% women) in the first magnesium tertile had lower mean grip strength compared to participants in the third tertile (25.99 [95% CI 24.28-27.70] vs. 30.1 [95% CI 28.26-31.69] kg). Similar results were observed among vitamin D sufficient participants (25.54 [95% CI 22.65-28.43] kg in the first magnesium tertile vs. 30.91 [27.97-33.86] kg in the third tertile). This association was not significant among vitamin D deficient participants. At week 4, no significant associations were observed between achieved magnesium tertiles and change in grip strength, overall and by vitamin D status. For fatigue, no significant associations were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Among older participants undergoing rehabilitation, magnesium status may be relevant for grip strength, particularly among vitamin D sufficient individuals. Magnesium status was not associated with fatigue, regardless of vitamin D status.

STUDY REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03422263; registered February 5, 2018.

A narrative review on the role of magnesium in immune regulation, inflammation, infectious diseases, and cancer

BACKGROUND

Magnesium (Mg) has gained much importance recently because of its unique range of biological functions. It is one of the most significant micronutrients in biological systems. This review aims to outline the immune-regulating actions of Mg and its crucial role in regulating inflammation and immune response to infectious agents and malignancies.

METHODS

We conducted a literature review on MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science to determine the impact of Mg on immune regulation in three settings of inflammation, infection, and cancer. We thoroughly examined all abstracts and full-text articles and selected the most relevant ones for inclusion in this review.

RESULTS

Mg has long been associated with immunological responses, both nonspecific and specific. It plays a pivotal role in diverse immune responses by participating in multiple mechanisms. It facilitates substance P binding to lymphoblasts, promotes T helper, B cell, and macrophage responses to lymphokines, and facilitates antibody-dependent cytolysis and immune cell adherence. Besides, Mg serves as a cofactor for C'3 convertase and immunoglobulin synthesis. It additionally boasts a significant anti-cancer effect. Chronic Mg deficiency leads to enhanced baseline inflammation associated with oxidative stress, related to various age-associated morbidities. A deficiency of Mg in rodents has been observed to impact the cell-mediated immunity and synthesis of IgG adversely. This deficiency can lead to various complications, such as lymphoma, histaminosis, hypereosinophilia, increased levels of IgE, and atrophy of the thymus. The immunological consequences of Mg deficiency in humans can be influenced by the genetic regulation of Mg levels in blood cells. Mg can also mediate cell cycle progression. There has been a renewed interest in the physiology and therapeutic efficacy of Mg. However, the in-depth mechanisms, their clinical significance, and their importance in malignancies and inflammatory disorders still need to be clarified.

CONCLUSIONS

Mg is essential for optimal immune function and regulating inflammation. Deficiency in Mg can lead to temporary or long-term immune dysfunction. A balanced diet usually provides sufficient Mg, but supplementation may be necessary in some cases. Excessive supplementation can have negative impacts on immune function and should be avoided. This review provides an update on the importance of Mg in an immune response against cancer cells and infectious agents and how it regulates inflammation, oxidative stress, cell progression, differentiation, and apoptosis.

How Do Minerals, Vitamins, and Intestinal Microbiota Affect the Development and Progression of Heart Disease in Adult and Pediatric Patients?

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, far ahead of cancer. Epidemiological data emphasize the participation of many risk factors that increase the incidence of CVDs, including genetic factors, age, and sex, but also lifestyle, mainly nutritional irregularities and, connected with them, overweight and obesity, as well as metabolic diseases. Despite the importance of cardiovascular problems in the whole society, the principles of prevention of CVDs are not widely disseminated, especially among the youngest. As a result, nutritional neglect, growing from childhood and adolescence, translates into the occurrence of numerous disease entities, including CVDs, in adult life. This review aimed to draw attention to the role of selected minerals and vitamins in health and the development and progression of CVDs in adults and children. Particular attention was paid to the effects of deficiency and toxicity of the analyzed compounds in the context of the cardiovascular system and to the role of intestinal microorganisms, which by interacting with nutrients, may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders. We hope this article will draw the attention of society and the medical community to emphasize promoting healthy eating and proper eating habits in children and adults, translating into increased awareness and a reduced risk of CVD.

Polymeric Coatings for Magnesium Alloys for Biodegradable Implant Application: A Review

Magnesium (Mg) alloys are a very attractive material of construction for biodegradable temporary implants. However, Mg alloys suffer unacceptably rapid corrosion rates in aqueous environments, including physiological fluid, that may cause premature mechanical failure of the implant. This necessitates a biodegradable surface barrier coating that should delay the corrosion of the implant until the fractured/damaged bone has healed. This review takes a brief account of the merits and demerits of various existing coating methodologies for the mitigation of Mg alloy corrosion. Since among the different coating approaches investigated, no single coating recipe seems to address the degradation control and functionality entirely, this review argues the need for polymer-based and biodegradable composite coatings.

The Benefits of Nanosized Magnesium Oxide in Fish Megalobrama amblycephala: Evidence in Growth Performance, Redox Defense, Glucose Metabolism, and Magnesium Homeostasis

This study evaluated the effects of dietary magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) on the growth, redox defense, glucose metabolism, and magnesium homeostasis in blunt snout bream. Fish (12.42 ± 0.33 g) were fed seven diets containing graded levels of MgO NPs (0, 60, 120, 240, 480, 960, and 1920 mg/kg) for 12 weeks. Whole-body Mg retention decreased significantly as the dietary Mg increased. As dietary MgO NPs levels reached 120 mg/kg, the growth performance and feed utilization remarkably improved. When added at 240 mg/kg, oxidative stress was significantly reduced evidenced by the increased Mn-sod transcription and the decreased CAT and GSH-Px activities and the MDA content. Meanwhile, it enhanced glucose transport, glycolysis, and glycogen synthesis, while inhibiting gluconeogenesis, as was characterized by the increased transcriptions of glut2, gk, and pk, and the decreased transcriptions of fbpase and g6pase. In addition, the supplementation of 120 mg/kg MgO NPs promoted Mg transport marked by a significant increase in the protein expressions of TRMP7, S41A3, and CNNM1. In conclusion, the moderate supplementation of MgO NPs improved the growth performance, reduced hepatic oxidative stress, and promoted glucose transport, glycolysis, glycogen synthesis, and magnesium homeostasis in fish while inhibiting glu.

Hypermagnesemia in Clinical Practice

Hypermagnesemia is a relatively uncommon but potentially life-threatening electrolyte disturbance characterized by elevated magnesium concentrations in the blood. Magnesium is a crucial mineral involved in various physiological functions, such as neuromuscular conduction, cardiac excitability, vasomotor tone, insulin metabolism, and muscular contraction. Hypomagnesemia is a prevalent electrolyte disturbance that can lead to several neuromuscular, cardiac, or nervous system disorders. Hypermagnesemia has been associated with adverse clinical outcomes, particularly in hospitalized patients. Prompt identification and management of hypermagnesemia are crucial to prevent complications, such as respiratory and cardiovascular negative outcomes, neuromuscular dysfunction, and coma. Preventing hypermagnesemia is crucial, particularly in high-risk populations, such as patients with impaired renal function or those receiving magnesium-containing medications or supplements. Clinical management of hypermagnesemia involves discontinuing magnesium-containing therapies, intravenous fluid therapy, or dialysis in severe cases. Furthermore, healthcare providers should monitor serum magnesium concentration in patients at risk of hypermagnesemia and promptly intervene if the concentration exceeds the normal range.

The influence of trace elements on the therapeutic success of suprachoroidal draining devices

PURPOSE

The therapeutic success of minimal invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is challenging due to many factors including fibrotic or occlusive events. Recent clinical data show sudden peaks of intraocular pressure (IOP) in the postoperative care of glaucoma patients after suprachoroidal draining stents. Yet, the reasons for the IOP peaks are speculative. As a link between trace elements and fibrosis had been previously observed in systemic disorders, the present study aimed to investigate the impact of trace elements on the therapeutic success of the suprachoroidal draining stents in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An analysis of a prospective single-center study was done: fifty-five eyes of patients with OAG (29 female, 26 male) underwent Cypass Micro-Stent implantation either as a stand-alone procedure or combined with cataract surgery. All patients underwent pre-operatively an ophthalmological examination which included slit lamp biomicroscopy and fundoscopy. IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry. Functional and morphometric data were assessed by Octopus G1-perimetry, which included measurement of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (Spectralis OCT). Data of the patients' follow-ups were recorded during 18 months post-operatively. The therapeutic success of CyPass Micro-Stent was classified as 'success' (IOP reduction ≥20% compared to a pre-operative baseline without any medication), 'qualified success' (IOP reduction ≥20 % with same or lower additional eye medication), and 'failure' (IOP reduction ≤20 % or additional surgical treatment necessary). Aqueous humour was extracted once during surgery for analysis of the level of 14 trace elements: Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Iron (Fe), Lithium (Li), Magnesium (Mg), Manganese (Mn), Phosphorus (P), Lead (Pb), Titanium (Ti), Uranium (U), Vanadium (V), and Zinc (Zn). Analysis of the trace elements was done using an ELEMENT 2, ICP-sf-MS instrument (Thermo-Fisher Scientific, Bremen, Germany). Analysis of levels of trace elements was done across the patients' groups of the three subclasses of therapeutic success. Statistical investigations for substantial differences were conducted using the method of least squares to fit general linear models and mixed models. The last one for the repeated measurements of IOP.

RESULTS

Levels of Mg were significantly lower one month postoperatively in the success group (LS-Mean 1.30 mg/L) compared to the qualified success group (LS-Mean 1.22 mg/L; p-value = 0.04). Fe was significantly increased in the failure group (LS-Mean 2.07 µg/L) compared to the qualified success group (LS-Mean 1.64 µg/L; p-value = 0.019) after 3 months of follow-up. Additionally, Fe levels were significantly lower in the success group (LS-Mean 1.47 µg/L) compared to the failure cohort (LS-Mean 2.07 µg/L; p-value = 0.009). After a period of 18 months, significantly higher levels of Mn were observed in the success group (LS-Mean 1.24 µg/L) than in the failure group (LS Mean 0.30 µg/L, p-value = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

The present data might suggest that trace elements can influence therapeutic success of suprachoroidal draining devices postoperatively and thus offer first hints for potential novel therapeutic options.

Novel Mg 2+ binding sites in the cytoplasmic domain of the MgtE Mg 2+ channels revealed by X-ray crystal structures

MgtE is a Mg ²⁺-selective channel regulated by the intracellular Mg ²⁺ concentration. MgtE family proteins are highly conserved in all domains of life and contribute to cellular Mg ²⁺ homeostasis. In humans, mutations in the SLC41 proteins, the eukaryotic counterparts of the bacterial MgtE, are known to be associated with various diseases. The first MgtE structure from a thermophilic bacterium, Thermus thermophilus, revealed that MgtE forms a homodimer consisting of transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains with a plug helix connecting the two and that the cytoplasmic domain possesses multiple Mg ²⁺ binding sites. Structural and electrophysiological analyses revealed that the dissociation of Mg ²⁺ ions from the cytoplasmic domain induces structural changes in the cytoplasmic domain, leading to channel opening. Thus, previous works showed the importance of MgtE cytoplasmic Mg ²⁺ binding sites. Nevertheless, due to the limited structural information on MgtE from different species, the conservation and diversity of the cytoplasmic Mg ²⁺ binding site in MgtE family proteins remain unclear. Here, we report crystal structures of the Mg ²⁺-bound MgtE cytoplasmic domains from two different bacterial species, Chryseobacterium hispalense and Clostridiales bacterium, and identify multiple Mg ²⁺ binding sites, including ones that were not observed in the previous MgtE structure. These structures reveal the conservation and diversity of the cytoplasmic Mg ²⁺ binding site in the MgtE family proteins.

Admission Serum Magnesium Levels Is Associated with Short and Long-Term Clinical Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients

BACKGROUND

In the face of the global pandemic that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created, readily available prognostic markers may be of great use.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between serum magnesium (sMg) levels on admission and clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all patients admitted to a single tertiary center with a primary de novo diagnosis of COVID-19. Patients were followed for a mean of 10 ± 7 months. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected and compared between five groups of patients according to sMg quintiles on hospital admission.

RESULTS

The cohort included 1522 patients (58% male, 69 ± 17 years old). A low sMg level (1st quintile) was associated with higher rates of diabetes and steroid use, whereas a high sMg level (5th quintile) was associated with dyslipidemia, renal dysfunction, higher levels of inflammatory markers and stay in the intensive care unit. All-cause in-hospital and long-term mortality was higher in patients with both low and high sMg levels, compared with mid-range sMg levels (2nd, 3rd and 4th quintiles; 19% and 30% vs. 9.5%, 10.7% and 17.8% and 35% and 45.3% vs. 23%, 26.8% and 27.3% respectively; p < 0.001 for all). After adjusting for significant clinical parameters indicating severe disease and renal dysfunction, only low sMg state was independently associated with increased mortality (HR = 1.57, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both low and high sMg levels were associated with increased mortality in a large cohort of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. However, after correction for renal dysfunction and disease severity, only low sMg maintained its prognostic ability.

Hypomagnesemia as a Risk Factor and Accelerator for Vascular Aging in Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Kidney Disease

The age-old axiom that one is as old as his or her vessels are, calls for ongoing critical re-examination of modifiable risk factors of accelerated vascular ageing in chronic kidney diseases. Attempts to modulate vascular risk with cholesterol-lowering agents have largely failed in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). In addition to nitrogen waste products, many pathological biochemical processes also play a role in vascular calcification in chronic kidney damage. Magnesium, a cation vital for the body, may substantially reduce cardiovascular diseases' risk and progression. This narrative review aimed to address the relationship between hypomagnesemia and vascular calcification, which promotes further cardiovascular complications in diabetes, aging, and CKD. Articles with predefined keywords were searched for in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases with specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. We hypothesized that a decrease in serum magnesium levels contributes to increased vascular calcification and thereby increases cardiovascular mortality. In summary, based on existing evidence in the literature, it appears that simple and inexpensive oral magnesium supplementation may reduce the cardiovascular mortality of patients who are already severely affected by such diseases; in this context, the concept of 'normal' vs. 'ideal' serum magnesium levels should be carefully re-examined.

Impact of magnesium sulfate therapy in improvement of renal functions in high fat diet-induced diabetic rats and their offspring

The role of magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) administration to prevent diabetic nephropathy (DN) by reducing insulin resistance (IR) and the relationship of this action with gender and the expression of NOX4 and ICAM1 genes in the parents and their offspring were studied. Males and females rat, and their pups were used. Type 2 diabetes induced by high-fat diet (HFD) administration and a low dose of streptozotocin. Animals were divided into the: non-treated diabetic (DC), the diabetic group received insulin (Ins), and the diabetic group received MgSO₄. Two groups of parents received just a normal diet (NDC). Following each set of parents for 16 weeks and their pups for 4 months, while eating normally. We assessed the amount of water consumed, urine volume, and blood glucose level. The levels of glucose, albumin, and creatinine in the urine were also measured, as well as the amounts of sodium, albumin, and creatinine in the serum. Calculations were made for glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the excretion rates of Na and glucose fractions (FE Na and FE G, respectively). The hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp was done. NOX4 and ICAM1 gene expressions in the kidney were also measured. MgSO₄ or insulin therapy decreased blood glucose, IR, and improved GFR, FE Na, and FE G in both parents and their offspring compared to D group. MgSO₄ improved NOX4 and ICAM1 gene expressions in the parents and their offspring compared to D group. Our results indicated that MgSO₄ could reduce blood glucose levels and insulin resistance, and it could improve kidney function.

Prognostic Value of Magnesium in COVID-19: Findings from the COMEPA Study

Magnesium (Mg) plays a key role in infections. However, its role in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still underexplored, particularly in long-term sequelae. The aim of the present study was to examine the prognostic value of serum Mg levels in older people affected by COVID-19. Patients were divided into those with serum Mg levels ≤1.96 vs. >1.96 mg/dL, according to the Youden index. A total of 260 participants (mean age 65 years, 53.8% males) had valid Mg measurements. Serum Mg had a good accuracy in predicting in-hospital mortality (area under the curve = 0.83; 95% CI: 0.74-0.91). Low serum Mg at admission significantly predicted in-hospital death (HR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.03-2.68) after adjusting for several confounders. A value of Mg ≤ 1.96 mg/dL was associated with a longer mean length of stay compared to those with a serum Mg > 1.96 (15.2 vs. 12.7 days). Low serum Mg was associated with a higher incidence of long COVID symptomatology (OR = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.30-4.31), particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (OR = 2.00; 95% CI: 1.24-16.40). In conclusion, low serum Mg levels were significant predictors of mortality, length of stay, and onset of long COVID symptoms, indicating that measuring serum Mg in COVID-19 may be helpful in the prediction of complications related to the disease.

Oral application of magnesium-L-threonate enhances analgesia and reduces the dosage of opioids needed in advanced cancer patients-A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of oral administration of magnesium-L-threonate, a novel magnesium compound, on the analgesic effect of opioids in patients with advanced cancer.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind trial at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. Eligible cancer patients who took opioids orally were assigned randomly to receive L-TAMS capsules (1.5 g or 2.0 g according to weight) or a placebo (starch capsules). The primary outcome was the increase in the daily oral dose of morphine in each of the two groups, measured at 7, 14, 21, 30, 60, and 90 days during this trial.

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients from the oncology and pain departments, including inpatients and outpatients, were screened; 83 were enrolled. The increases in daily morphine doses began to differ from day 30 (L-TAMS group 9.85 mg/d vs. Placebo group 20.49 mg/d, p < 0.05); the differences persisted on day 60 (L-TAMS group 15.96 mg/d vs. Placebo group 29.06 mg/d, p < 0.05) and on day 90 (L-TAMS group 21.20 mg/d vs. Placebo group 40.44 mg/d, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

L-TAMS outperforms a placebo in enhancing the analgesic effect of opioids and reducing the necessary opioid dosage. Moreover, L-TAMS can significantly relieve opioid-induced constipation. These advantages may be beneficial to patients with advanced cancer.

Ageing, Metabolic Dysfunction, and the Therapeutic Role of Antioxidants

The gradual ageing of the world population has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes. The adipose tissue dysfunction associated with ageing and obesity shares many common physiological features, including increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity may help elucidate the processes that contribute to the metabolic disturbances that occur with ageing. This, in turn, may help identify therapeutic targets for the treatment of obesity and age-related metabolic disorders. Because oxidative stress plays a critical role in these pathological processes, antioxidant dietary interventions could be of therapeutic value for the prevention and/or treatment of age-related diseases and obesity and their complications. In this chapter, we review the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which obesity predisposes individuals to accelerated ageing. Additionally, we critically review the potential of antioxidant dietary interventions to counteract obesity and ageing.

Association between dietary minerals and glioma: A case-control study based on Chinese population

Background

As one of the essential nutrients for the human body, minerals participate in various physiological activities of the body and are closely related to many cancers. However, the population study on glioma is not sufficient.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between five dietary minerals and glioma.

Methods

A total of 506 adult patients with glioma and 506 healthy controls were matched 1:1 according to age (±5 years) and sex. The food intake of the subjects in the past year was collected through the food frequency questionnaire, and the intakes of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper in the diet were calculated. The logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for dietary minerals to gliomas.

Results

After adjusting for confounders, higher intakes of calcium (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.57-0.74), magnesium (OR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.11-0.29), iron (OR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.02-0.11), zinc (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.54-0.73), and copper (OR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.13-0.39) were associated with a significantly decreased risk of glioma. Similar results were observed in gliomas of different pathological types and pathological grades. The restriction cubic spline function suggested significant linear dose-response relationships between intakes of five minerals and the risk of glioma. When the dietary minerals exceeded a particular intake, the risk of glioma stabilized.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that higher dietary intakes of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper are associated with a decreased risk of glioma. However, the results of this study require further exploration of potential mechanisms in the future better to elucidate the effects of mineral intake on gliomas.

Effect of magnesium supplementation in improving hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, and sleep quality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background and Aims

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common endocrine disorders in women, which causes numerous symptoms in women. The relationship of many micronutrients with this syndrome has been investigated. This study was conducted to examine the effects of magnesium supplementation on hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, and sleep quality in women with PCOS.

Methods

In this parallel randomized clinical trial, 64 women with PCOS were randomly assigned to the magnesium group (n = 32) or placebo group (n = 32) for 10 weeks. Patients in the magnesium group received one 250 mg magnesium oxide tablet, per day. Hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, and sleep quality were measured at the beginning and end of the study. This randomized clinical trial was registered at https://www.IRCT.ir (IRCT20130903014551N8).

Results

Magnesium supplementation had no significant effect on hyperandrogenism (p = 0.51 for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfates, p = 0.27 for testosterone), hirsutism (p = 0.23), and sleep quality (p = 0.85) compared with placebo.

Conclusions

The present study showed that a single dose of magnesium supplementation elicited no beneficial effects on the mentioned symptoms in polycystic women. It is possible that the positive effects of magnesium observed in the former studies were due to the synergistic effects of other vitamins or minerals. More studies are needed in this area.

Additive Manufacturing of Polymer/Mg-Based Composites for Porous Tissue Scaffolds

Due to their commercial availability, superior processability, and biocompatibility, polymers are frequently used to build three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds. The main issues limiting the widespread clinical use of monophasic polymer scaffolds in the bone healing process are their inadequate mechanical strength and inappropriate biodegradation. Due to their mechanical strength and biocompatibility, metal-based scaffolds have been used for various bone regenerative applications. However, due to the mismatch in mechanical properties and nondegradability, they lack integration with the host tissues, resulting in the production of fiber tissue and the release of toxic ions, posing a risk to the durability of scaffolds. Due to their natural degradability in the body, Mg and its alloys increasingly attract attention for orthopedic and cardiovascular applications. Incorporating Mg micro-nano-scale particles into biodegradable polymers dramatically improves scaffolds and implants' strength, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Polymer biodegradable implants also improve the quality of life, particularly for an aging society, by eliminating the secondary surgery often needed to remove permanent implants and significantly reducing healthcare costs. This paper reviews the suitability of various biodegradable polymer/Mg composites for bone tissue scaffolds and then summarizes the current status and challenges of polymer/magnesium composite scaffolds. In addition, this paper reviews the potential use of 3D printing, which has a unique design capability for developing complex structures with fewer material waste at a faster rate, and with a personalized and on-site fabrication possibility.

Optimizing the ECAP Parameters of Biodegradable Mg-Zn-Zr Alloy Based on Experimental, Mathematical Empirical, and Response Surface Methodology

Experimental investigations were conducted on Mg-3Zn-0.6Zr alloy under different ECAP conditions of number of passes, die angles, and processing route types, aimed at investigating the impact of the ECAP parameters on the microstructure evolution, corrosion behavior, and mechanical properties to reach optimum performance characteristics. To that end, the response surface methodology (RSM), analysis of variance, second-order regression models, genetic algorithm (GA), and a hybrid RSM-GA were utilized in the experimental study to determine the optimum ECAP processing parameters. All of the anticipated outcomes were within a very small margin of the actual experimental findings, indicating that the regression model was adequate and could be used to predict the optimization of ECAP parameters. According to the results of the experiments, route Bc is the most efficient method for refining grains. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results showed that the 4-passes of route Bc via the 120°-die exhibited higher corrosion resistance. Still, the potentiodynamic polarization results showed that the 4-passes of route Bc via the 90°-die demonstrated a better corrosion rate. Furthermore, the highest Vicker's microhardness, yield strength, and tensile strength were also disclosed by four passes of route Bc, whereas the best ductility at fracture was demonstrated by two passes of route C.

Reduction in Serum Magnesium Levels and Renal Function Are Associated with Increased Mortality in Obese COVID-19 Patients

Several studies provide evidence that obesity is a significant risk factor for adverse outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Altered renal function and disturbances in magnesium levels have been reported to play important pathophysiological roles in COVID-19. However, the relationship between obesity, renal function, circulating magnesium levels, and mortality in patients with COVID-19 remains unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we characterized 390 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 that were categorized according to their body mass index (BMI). Patients were clinically characterized and biochemical parameters, renal function, and electrolyte markers measured upon admission. We found that in patients who died, BMI was associated with reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, Rho: −0.251, p = 0.001) and serum magnesium levels (Rho: −0.308, p < 0.0001). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that death was significantly associated with obesity (p = 0.001). The Cox model for obese patients showed that magnesium levels were associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratio: 0.213, 95% confidence interval: 0.077 to 0.586, p = 0.003). Thus, reduced renal function and lower magnesium levels were associated with increased mortality in obese COVID-19 patients. These results suggest that assessment of kidney function, including magnesium levels, may assist in developing effective treatment strategies to reduce mortality among obese COVID-19 patients.

Monitoring MgCl2 hydrate formation from aqueous solutions using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

The interaction of MgCl₂ with H₂O is heavily involved in biological and chemical processes. In this work, freezing-induced hydrate formation from MgCl₂ aqueous solution was monitored using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. At low temperatures, two phase transitions from brine to hydrate formation could be clearly observed, and the formation of hydrate was accompanied by the emergence of new THz fingerprint peaks at 1.02, 1.56, and 1.84 THz, respectively. Integrating XRD and quantum chemical calculations, we attributed the absorption peaks to the vibrational modes of the formed MgCl₂·12H₂O. This demonstrates the potential of THz spectroscopy for application in the detection of biological processes in low-temperature environments, such as cell freezing.