Alterations in antioxidant enzymes and oxidative damage in experimental diabetic rat tissues: effect of vanadate and fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum graecum)

Effects of subcutaneous vs. oral nanoparticle-mediated insulin delivery on hemostasis disorders in type 1 diabetes: A rat model study

Complications associated with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) have complex origins that revolve around chronic hyperglycemia; these complications involve hemostasis disorders, coagulopathies, and vascular damage. Our study aims to develop innovative approaches to minimize these complications and to compare the outcomes of the new approach with those of traditional methods. To achieve our objective, we designed novel nanoparticles comprising covalent organic frameworks (nCOF) loaded with insulin, termed nCOF/Insulin, and compared it to subcutaneous insulin to elucidate the influence of insulin delivery methods on various parameters, including bleeding time, coagulation factors, platelet counts, cortisol plasma levels, lipid profiles, and oxidative stress parameters. Traditional subcutaneous insulin injections exacerbated hemostasis disorder and vascular injuries in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats through increasing plasma triglycerides and lipid peroxidation. Conversely, oral delivery of nCOF/Insulin ameliorated hemostatic disorders and restored the endothelial oxidant/antioxidant balance by reducing lipid peroxidation and enhancing the lipid profile. Our study pioneers the understanding of how STZ-induced diabetes disrupts bleeding time, induces a hypercoagulable state, and causes vascular damage through lipid peroxidation. Additionally, it provides the first evidence for the involvement of subcutaneous insulin treatment in exacerbating vascular and hemostasis disorders in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Introducing an innovative oral insulin delivery via the nCOF approach represents a potential paradigm shift in diabetes management and patient care and promises to improve treatment strategies for type 1 Diabetes.

A Non-Toxic Binuclear Vanadium(IV) Complex as Insulin Adjuvant Improves the Glycemic Control in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus (DM) complications are a burden to health care systems due to the associated consequences of poor glycemic control and the side effects of insulin therapy. Recently. adjuvant therapies, such as vanadium compounds, have gained attention due to their potential to improve glucose homeostasis in patients with diabetes. In order to determine the anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of the oxidovanadium(IV) complex (Et3NH)2[{VO(OH}2)(ox)2(µ-ox)] or Vox2), rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes were treated with 30 and 100 mg/kg of Vox2, orally administered for 12 days. Vox2 at 100 mg/kg in association with insulin caused a 3.4 times decrease in blood glucose in STZ rats (424 mg/dL), reaching concentrations similar to those in the normoglycemic animals (126 mg/dL). Compared to insulin alone, the association with Vox2 caused an additional decrease in blood glucose of 39% and 65% at 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, and an increased pancreatic GSH levels 2.5 times. Vox2 alone did not cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and hepatic or renal toxicity and was not associated with changes in blood glucose level, lipid profile, or kidney or liver function. Our results highlight the potential of Vox2 in association with insulin in treating diabetes.

Effects of Nostoc commune extract on the cerebral oxidative and neuroinflammatory status in a mice model of schizophrenia

Cyanobacterium Nostoc commune has long been used to alleviate various diseases. This research examines the effects of Nostoc commune extract (NCE) against behavioral disorders, cerebral oxidative stress, and inflammatory damage in the ketamine-induced schizophrenia model. Oral NCE administration (70 and 150 mg/kg/d) is performed after intraperitoneal ketamine injection (20 mg/kg) for 14 consecutive days. The forced swimming and open field tests are used to assess schizophrenia-like behaviors. After the behavioral test, dopamine (DA) level, oxidative stress markers, as well as the interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression are measured in the cerebral cortex. The results show that NCE treatment ameliorates KET-induced anxiety and depressive-like behaviors in OFT and FST, respectively. NCE considerably decreases the malondialdehyde (MDA) and DA levels and IL-6 and TNF-α expressions in mice with schizophrenia-like symptoms. Also, a significant increase is observed in the glutathione (GSH) level and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione reductase (GRx) activity in cerebral tissue. The present study shows that NCE treatment effectively improves KET-induced schizophrenia-like behaviors and oxidative and inflammatory damage. Therefore, NCE, via its bioactive constituents, could have strong neuroprotective effects in the schizophrenia-like model.

Protective effects of Japanese sake yeast on depressive-like behaviors, oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters in a rat model of global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion

Stroke is a serious cerebrovascular disease that causes post-stress depression and death. Stress and inflammation have pivotal roles in the induction of the disease. Several drugs and agents have been used for the treatment of disease, but their uses are faced with limitations owing to their side effects. Natural agents are more efficient for the treatment of stroke due to lower toxicity and their pharmaceutical properties. Sake yeast or Japanese rice wine is an antioxidant compound that could be used to treat stroke and post-stress depression. This study evaluates the effects of sake yeast on depressive-like behaviors, oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters in a rat model of global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. Rats were divided into four groups, including 1) control: without bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) and sake supplement, 2) Ischemia group: rats induced with BCCAO and lack of therapeutic supplement, and 3 and 4) Ischemia + sake groups: rats induced with BCCAO and treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg sake yeast, respectively. Depressive-like behaviors antioxidant enzymes activities were assessed. The induction of stroke increased oxidant status, inflammatory parameters, and depressive-like behaviors, while the administration of sake could decrease inflammation, depressive-like behaviors, and oxidant status and increase antioxidant enzymes. The yeast could be used as a supplement in combination with other drugs to treat stroke.

Effect of Annona squamosa leaf extract on human promyelocytic leukemia cells subjected to oxidative stress

OBJECTIVES

Annona squamosa has beneficial properties. However, its cytotoxicity and antioxidative effects on human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) deserve investigation. Therefore, the efficacy of its crude extracts in offsetting damage in HL60 cells subjected to oxidative stress was studied.

METHODS

Crude extracts at different concentrations were incubated with HL60 cells. The beneficial properties of the plant extract against oxidative damage were evaluated post-induction of oxidative stress utilizing hydrogen peroxide.

RESULTS

Extracts at concentrations 600 and 800 μg/mL were most effective at increasing the viability of damaged cells compared to the control group after 48 h of incubation. Significant increases in lipid peroxidation were observed in exposed cells treated with 600 μg/mL extract after 72 h of incubation. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities significantly increased in exposed cells after 24 h of incubation at all extract concentrations. Exposed cells treated with 600 and 1,000 μg/dL of the extract showed significantly increased catalase activity after 48 h, and a similar profile was maintained after 72 h of exposure. SOD activity in exposed cells remained significantly increased at all treatment concentrations after 48 and 72 h of incubation. Treatment with 400, 600, and 800 μg/mL of the extract resulted in significantly increased reduced glutathione levels compared to the other groups after 24 and 72 h of incubation. However, after 48 h of incubation, significant increases were noted in glutathione levels in exposed cells incubated with either 400, 800, or 1,000 μg/mL extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that A. squamosa might effectively protect against oxidative damage in a time and extract concentration-dependent manner.

CNS-Related Effects Caused by Vanadium at Realistic Exposure Levels in Humans: A Comprehensive Overview Supplemented with Selected Animal Studies

Neurodegenerative disorders, which are currently incurable diseases of the nervous system, are a constantly growing social concern. They are progressive and lead to gradual degeneration and/or death of nerve cells, resulting in cognitive deterioration or impaired motor functions. New therapies that would ensure better treatment results and contribute to a significant slowdown in the progression of neurodegenerative syndromes are constantly being sought. Vanadium (V), which is an element with a wide range of impacts on the mammalian organism, is at the forefront among the different metals studied for their potential therapeutic use. On the other hand, it is a well-known environmental and occupational pollutant and can exert adverse effects on human health. As a strong pro-oxidant, it can generate oxidative stress involved in neurodegeneration. Although the detrimental effects of vanadium on the CNS are relatively well recognized, the role of this metal in the pathophysiology of various neurological disorders, at realistic exposure levels in humans, is not yet well characterized. Hence, the main goal of this review is to summarize data on the neurological side effects/neurobehavioral alterations in humans, in relation to vanadium exposure, with the focus on the levels of this metal in biological fluids/brain tissues of subjects with some neurodegenerative syndromes. Data collected in the present review indicate that vanadium cannot be excluded as a factor playing a pivotal role in the etiopathogenesis of neurodegenerative illnesses, and point to the need for additional extensive epidemiological studies that will provide more evidence supporting the relationship between vanadium exposure and neurodegeneration in humans. Simultaneously, the reviewed data, clearly showing the environmental impact of vanadium on health, suggest that more attention should be paid to chronic diseases related to vanadium and to the assessment of the dose-response relationship.

Activation of neuronal NADPH oxidase NOX2 promotes inflammatory neurodegeneration

Strong evidence indicates critical roles of NADPH oxidase (a key superoxide-producing enzyme complex during inflammation) in activated microglia for mediating neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. However, little is known about roles of neuronal NADPH oxidase in neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to investigate expression patterns, regulatory mechanisms and pathological roles of neuronal NADPH oxidase in inflammation-associated neurodegeneration. The results showed persistent upregulation of NOX2 (gp91phox; the catalytic subunit of NADPH oxidase) in both microglia and neurons in a chronic mouse model of Parkinson's disease (PD) with intraperitoneal LPS injection and LPS-treated midbrain neuron-glia cultures (a cellular model of PD). Notably, NOX2 was found for the first time to exhibit a progressive and persistent upregulation in neurons during chronic neuroinflammation. While primary neurons and N27 neuronal cells displayed basal expression of NOX1, NOX2 and NOX4, significant upregulation only occurred in NOX2 but not NOX1 or NOX4 under inflammatory conditions. Persistent NOX2 upregulation was associated with functional outcomes of oxidative stress including increased ROS production and lipid peroxidation. Neuronal NOX2 activation displayed membrane translocation of cytosolic p47phox subunit and was inhibited by apocynin and diphenyleneiodonium chloride (two widely-used NADPH oxidase inhibitors). Importantly, neuronal ROS production, mitochondrial dysfunction and degeneration induced by inflammatory mediators in microglia-derived conditional medium were blocked by pharmacological inhibition of neuronal NOX2. Furthermore, specific deletion of neuronal NOX2 prevented LPS-elicited dopaminergic neurodegeneration in neuron-microglia co-cultures separately grown in the transwell system. The attenuation of inflammation-elicited upregulation of NOX2 in neuron-enriched and neuron-glia cultures by ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine indicated a positive feedback mechanism between excessive ROS production and NOX2 upregulation. Collectively, our findings uncovered crucial contribution of neuronal NOX2 upregulation and activation to chronic neuroinflammation and inflammation-related neurodegeneration. This study reinforced the importance of developing NADPH oxidase-targeting therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.

Biological Consequences of Vanadium Effects on Formation of Reactive Oxygen Species and Lipid Peroxidation

Lipid peroxidation (LPO), a process that affects human health, can be induced by exposure to vanadium salts and compounds. LPO is often exacerbated by oxidation stress, with some forms of vanadium providing protective effects. The LPO reaction involves the oxidation of the alkene bonds, primarily in polyunsaturated fatty acids, in a chain reaction to form radical and reactive oxygen species (ROS). LPO reactions typically affect cellular membranes through direct effects on membrane structure and function as well as impacting other cellular functions due to increases in ROS. Although LPO effects on mitochondrial function have been studied in detail, other cellular components and organelles are affected. Because vanadium salts and complexes can induce ROS formation both directly and indirectly, the study of LPO arising from increased ROS should include investigations of both processes. This is made more challenging by the range of vanadium species that exist under physiological conditions and the diverse effects of these species. Thus, complex vanadium chemistry requires speciation studies of vanadium to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of the various species that are present during vanadium exposure. Undoubtedly, speciation is important in assessing how vanadium exerts effects in biological systems and is likely the underlying cause for some of the beneficial effects reported in cancerous, diabetic, neurodegenerative conditions and other diseased tissues impacted by LPO processes. Speciation of vanadium, together with investigations of ROS and LPO, should be considered in future biological studies evaluating vanadium effects on the formation of ROS and on LPO in cells, tissues, and organisms as discussed in this review.

Nano-hesperetin attenuates ketamine-induced schizophrenia-like symptoms in mice: participation of antioxidant parameters

RATIONALE

Antioxidant natural herb hesperetin (Hst) offers powerful medicinal properties. Despite having noticeable antioxidant properties, it has limited absorption, which is a major pharmacological obstacle.

OBJECTIVES

The goal of the current investigation was to determine if Hst and nano-Hst might protect mice against oxidative stress and schizophrenia (SCZ)-like behaviors brought on by ketamine (KET).

METHODS

Seven treatment groups (n=7) were created for the animals. For 10 days, they received distilled water or KET (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally (i.p). From the 11th to the 40th day, they received daily oral administration of Hst and nano-Hst (10, 20 mg/kg) or vehicle. With the use of the forced swimming test (FST), open field test (OFT), and novel object recognition test (NORT), SCZ-like behaviors were evaluated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione levels and antioxidant enzyme activities were assessed in the cerebral cortex.

RESULTS

Our findings displayed that behavioral disorders induced by KET would be improved by nano-Hst treated. MDA levels were much lower after treatment with nano-Hst, and brain antioxidant levels and activities were noticeably higher. The mice treated with nano-Hst had improved outcomes in the behavioral and biochemical tests when compared to the Hst group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study's findings showed that nano-Hst had a stronger neuroprotective impact than Hst. In cerebral cortex tissues, nano-Hst treatment dramatically reduced KET-induced (SCZ)-like behavior and oxidative stress indicators. As a result, nano-Hst may have more therapeutic potential and may be effective in treating behavioral impairments and oxidative damage brought on by KET.

Vanadium and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetes: A systematic review of animal studies

Background: Oxidative stress has a significant role in the commencement and development of hyperglycemia. Vanadium, as a transitional metal with redox properties, enters the redox process, produces free radicals, and distracts the pro-antioxidant balance. The present animal systematic review aimed to assess the effect of vanadium supplementation on inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers in diabetes-induced animals. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and web of science databases from 1990 to 2021, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The search strategy was based on the guidelines for systematic review of animal experiments and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA). Criteria for eligibility were animal-based studies, evaluating the therapeutic effects of vanadium on inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in diabetes. The Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool was used for assessing the methodological quality of included studies. Results: In the present study, 341 articles were evaluated out of which 42 studies were eligible for inclusion. The majority of the studies confirmed the advantageous properties of vanadium on inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. A minor risk of bias was reported, based on the SYRCLE's tool. Conclusion: According to the findings, well-designed clinical trials are warranted to assess the long-lasting effects of various vanadium compounds on inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers.

Effects of the combination of high-intensity interval training and Ecdysterone on learning and memory abilities, antioxidant enzyme activities, and neuronal population in an Amyloid-beta-induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease

AIMS

Oxidative stress and neuronal death are the primary reasons for the progression of amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition and cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Ecdysterone (ecdy), a common derivative of ecdysteroids, possesses free radical scavenging and cognitive-improving effects. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can be a therapeutic strategy for improving cognitive decline and oxidative stress. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of HIIT exercise and ecdy consumption synergistically on the changes in learning and memory functions, activities of hippocampal antioxidant enzymes, and neuronal population after AD induced by Aβ in male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following ten days of Aβ injection, HIIT exercise and ecdy treatment (10 mg/kg/day; P.O.) were initiated and continued for eight consecutive weeks in rats. At the end of the treatment period, the rat's learning and memory functions were assessed using Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GRx), and changes in neuronal population were evaluated in rats' brains.

RESULTS

The results indicated that Aβ injection disrupted spatial/passive avoidance learning and memory in both tests, accompanied by a decrease in the SOD and CAT (as endogenous antioxidants) in rats' hippocampus. Additionally, Aβ injection resulted in neuronal loss in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. Although the consumption of ecdy separately improved spatial/passive avoidance learning and memory impairments, recovered hippocampal activity of SOD, CAT, GRx, and prevented the hippocampal neuronal loss, its combination along with HIIT resulted in a more powerful and effective amelioration in all the above-mentioned Aβ-neuropathological changes.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirm that a combination of HIIT and ecdy treatment could be a promising potential therapeutic option against AD-associated cognitive decline, owing to their free radical scavenging and neuroprotective properties.

Sumac and gallic acid-loaded nanophytosomes ameliorate hippocampal oxidative stress via regulation of Nrf2/Keap1 pathway in autistic rats

Autism spectrum disorders cover a range of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social interaction and cognitive deficits. Phenolic compound applications have been restricted due to their poor solubility, bioavailability, and low stability. This paper aimed to explore the neuroprotective effects of sumac and gallic acid-loaded nanophytosomes (GNP) on oxidative stress-induced cognitive impairment and Nrf2/Keap1 gene expression in the autism model. Valproic acid (VPA) was administered intraperitoneally at doses of 500 mg/kg to female rats during gestational 12.5 days (E12.5). The prenatal VPA-exposed rats were divided into five groups, including VPA, VPA treated with sumac, gallic acid (GA), sumac-loaded nanophytosome (SNP), and GNP at doses of 20 mg/kg for 4 weeks (n = 6). A novel object test was conducted and antioxidant parameters and Nrf2/Keap1gene expression were evaluated in the hippocampus. According to the obtained results, the rat model of autism exhibited recognition memory impairment. We observed an increase in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) enzyme activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and glutathione (GSH) levels. Furthermore, sumac and GNP improved recognition memory deficits and increased GPx, GRx, SOD, and CAT activities, GSH and TAC levels, and Nrf2/Keap1gene expression in the hippocampal area. Our results also suggested that SNP and GNP ameliorate VPA-induced learning and memory deficits more efficiently than sumac extract and pure GA by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, and Keap1/Nrf2 gene expression. The present study demonstrated that the utilization of SNP and GNP significantly improved recognition memory deficits.

Therapeutic effect of acute and chronic use of different doses of vitamin D3 on seizure responses and cognitive impairments induced by pentylenetetrazole in immature male rats

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of acute and chronic intake of different doses of vitamin D3 on seizure responses and cognitive impairment induced by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in immature male rats.

Materials and Methods

Sixty-six immature male NMRI rats were divided into control (10), epileptic (10), and treatment groups (46). The stage 5 latency (S5L) and stage 5 duration (S5D) were assessed along with the shuttle box test. Levels of antioxidant enzymes and inflammatory factors along with genes involved in inflammation, oxidative damage, apoptosis, and mTORc1 were measured in the hippocampus tissue of the brain of controlled and treated rats. Serum levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus were also assessed.

Results

The results showed that the ability to learn, memory consolidation, and memory retention in epileptic rats were reduced. In addition, S5D increased and S5L decreased in epileptic rats, while being effectively ameliorated by chronic and acute vitamin D intake. The results showed that vitamin D in different doses acutely and chronically decreased the levels of oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers in hippocampus tissue and inhibited the expression of genes involved in inflammation, oxidative damage, apoptosis, and mTORc1 in the hippocampus tissue of epileptic rats.

Conclusion

The results showed that vitamin D in different doses acutely and chronically could improve cognitive impairments and convulsive responses in epileptic rats by improving neurotransmission, inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative damage.

Neuroprotective effects of curcumin-loaded nanophytosome on ketamine-induced schizophrenia-like behaviors and oxidative damage in male mice

Curcumin as an antioxidant natural herb has shown numerous pharmacological effects. However, the poor bioavailability of curcumin is a significant pharmacological barrier for its antioxidant activities. The present study was conducted to develop curcumin-loaded nanophytosome (CNP) and explore their therapeutic potential in a ketamine (KET)-induced schizophrenia (SCZ) model. The mice in our experiment were treated orally with curcumin and CNP (20 mg/kg) for 30 consecutive days. In addition, the animals received intraperitoneal injection of KET (30 mg/kg/day) from the 16th to the 30th day. SCZ-like behaviors were evaluated employing forced swimming test (FST), open field test (OFT), and novel object recognition test (NORT), and oxidative stress markers in the brain were estimated. Our results revealed that CNP has a greater neuroprotective effect compared to free curcumin. CNP pretreatment significantly ameliorated KET-induced brain injury evidenced by a marked reduction in the depressive and anxiety-like behaviors, memory deficits, and oxidative stress markers in cortical and subcortical tissues. Therefore, CNP, as a suitable drug delivery system, may improve curcumin bioavailability and confer stronger neuroprotective effects against KET-induced behavioral deficits and oxidative damages.

Thermotherapy Effects on Healthy and Type 2 Diabetes Human Skeletal Muscle Myoblast Cell Lines

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels with associated disordered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) specifically has been shown to cause a decrease in skeletal muscle mass due to oxidative stress. This study investigated a treatment option for T2D through thermotherapy on healthy (HSMM) and T2D (D-HSMM) human skeletal muscle cells. The goals were to determine the effects of thermotherapy, long-term (chronic) and short-term (acute), on HSMM and D-HSMM cell viabilities and oxidative stress. HSMM and D-HSMM cells were grown to confluency, harvested, and counted to determine density. Acute and chronic heat treatments were applied to both cell lines. The chronic treatment consisted of a 30-minute exposure to 40°C, three times a week for three weeks; the acute treatment was a one-time exposure. Oxidative stress assays and cell viabilities were tested 24 hours after heat treatments. Results indicated no significant effect on the cell viability of HSMM and D-HSMM cells. The acute treatment had a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) of MDA concentration compared to the chronic treatment. The chronic treatment had a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in catalase activity compared to the acute treatment. The SOD activity had no significant change (p > 0.05) between the chronic and acute treatments. In conclusion, acute thermotherapy may not be beneficial for skeletal muscle cells due to the observed increase in oxidative stress, especially in the D-HSMM cells.

Astaxanthin Induces the Expression of CatSper1 Gene and Protects Sperms in Toxicity Induced by Cadmium in Mice

Cadmium (Cd) as a heavy metal damages testis and decreases fertility, however, antioxidants can improve sperm parameters and decrease male infertility. In this study we investigated the effect of astaxanthin (AST) on sperm parameters, expression levels of CatSper1 and CatSper2 genes in presence of Cd in mice. Thirty adults' mice were divided into 4 groups, sham group received olive oil and saline (olive oil is the solvent of AST and saline is the solvent of Cd), Cd group received 1 mg/kg Cdcl₂, a group received 10 mg/kg AST and 1 mg/kg Cdcl₂ and a group received 10 mg/kg AST. The treatments were done intraperitoneally for 14 days. After 14 days sperm parameters were analyzed. Malondialdehyde level, catalase enzyme activity, the alteration of CatSper1 and CatSper2 genes expression were measured in testis. Results showed that Sperm count, viability, CatSper1 gene expression and catalase activity significantly decreased by Cd compared to sham group. Cd significantly increased sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), abnormal sperm morphology and malondialdehyd level compared to sham group. AST significantly increased sperm count, viability and CatSper1 gene expression and decreased SDF and abnormal sperm in comparison with Cd group. AST protected testis and decreased oxidative stress induced by Cd. Our findings indicated that AST could protect sperm DNA, enhanced CatSper1 gene expression and sperm quality in presence of Cd. No significant differences were found in CatSper2 expression among treatments. Therefore, AST as a strong antioxidant can help to protect the potential of fertility against Cd toxicity.

Neuroprotective Effects of Normobaric Hyperoxia and Transplantation of Encapsulated Choroid Plexus Epithelial Cells on The Focal Brain Ischemia

Objective

Choroid plexus epithelial cells (CPECs) have the epithelial characteristic, produce cerebrospinal fluid, contribute to the detoxification process in the central nervous system (CNS), and are responsible for the synthesis and release of many nerve growth factors. On the other hand, studies suggest that normobaric hyperoxia (HO) by induction of ischemic tolerance (IT) can protect against brain damage and neurological diseases. We examined the effect of combination therapy of encapsulated CPECs and HO to protect against ischemic brain injury.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, six groups of adult male Wistar rats were randomly organized: sham, room air (RA)+middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), HO+MCAO, RA+MCAO+encapsulated CPECs, HO+MCAO+encapsulated CPECs, RA+MCAO+empty capsules. RA/HO were pretreatment. The CPECs were isolated from the brain of neonatal Wistar rats, cultured, and encapsulated. Then microencapsulated CPECs were transplanted in the neck of the animal immediately after the onset of reperfusion in adult rats that had been exposed to 60 minutes MCAO. After 23 hours of reperfusion, the neurologic deficit score (NDS) was assessed. Next, rats were killed, and brains were isolated for measuring brain infarction volume, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, edema, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) and also, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA).

Results

Our results showed that NDS decreased equally in HO+MCAO, RA+MCAO+encapsulated CPECs, and HO+MCAO+encapsulated CPECs groups. Brain infarction volume decreased up 79%, BBB stability increased, edema decreased, SOD and CAT activities increased, and MDA decreased in the combination group of HO and transplantation of encapsulated CPECs in the ischemic brain as compared with when HO or transplantation of encapsulated CPECs was applied alone.

Conclusion

The combination of HO and transplantation of encapsulated CPECs for stroke in rats was more effective than the other treatments, and it can be taken into account as a promising treatment for ischemic stroke.

Therapeutic potential of targeting oxidative stress in diabetic cardiomyopathy

Even in the absence of coronary artery disease and hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM) may increase the risk for heart failure development. This risk evolves from functional and structural alterations induced by diabetes in the heart, a cardiac entity termed diabetic cardiomyopathy (DbCM). Oxidative stress, defined as the imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been increasingly proposed to contribute to the development of DbCM. There are several sources of ROS production including the mitochondria, NAD(P)H oxidase, xanthine oxidase, and uncoupled nitric oxide synthase. Overproduction of ROS in DbCM is thought to be counterbalanced by elevated antioxidant defense enzymes such as catalase and superoxide dismutase. Excess ROS in the cardiomyocyte results in further ROS production, mitochondrial DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, post-translational modifications of proteins and ultimately cell death and cardiac dysfunction. Furthermore, ROS modulates transcription factors responsible for expression of antioxidant enzymes. Lastly, evidence exists that several pharmacological agents may convey cardiovascular benefit by antioxidant mechanisms. As such, increasing our understanding of the pathways that lead to increased ROS production and impaired antioxidant defense may enable the development of therapeutic strategies against the progression of DbCM. Herein, we review the current knowledge about causes and consequences of ROS in DbCM, as well as the therapeutic potential and strategies of targeting oxidative stress in the diabetic heart.

Antidementia Effects of Alternanthera philoxeroides in Ovariectomized Mice Supported by NMR-Based Metabolomic Analysis

The crude ethanol extract of the whole plant of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb was investigated for its potential as antidementia, induced by estrogen deprivation, based on in vitro antioxidant activity, β-amyloid aggregation inhibition and cholinesterase inhibitory activity, as well as in vivo Morris water maze task (MWMT), novel object recognition task (NORT), and Y-maze task. To better understand the effect of the extract, oxidative stress-induced brain membrane damage through lipid peroxidation in the whole brain was also investigated. Additionally, expressions of neuroinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) and estrogen receptor-mediated facilitation genes such as PI3K and AKT mRNA in the hippocampus and frontal cortex were also evaluated. These effects were confirmed by the determination of its serum metabolites by NMR metabolomic analysis. Both the crude extract of A. philoxeroides and its flavone constituents were found to inhibit β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation.

Evaluation of hesperetin-loaded on multiple wall carbon nanotubes on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

The present study aimed to develop novel hesperetin-loaded on multiple wall carbon nanotubes (Hst-MWCNTs) to resolve the restricted bioavailability of hesperetin (Hst) and to enhance its preventive effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). The physicochemical characteristics of Hst-MWCNTs were evaluated by Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FT-IR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (control, I/R, MWCNTs, Hst, and Hst-MWCNTs). Hst, MWCNTs and Hst-MWCNTs (15 mg/kg orally) were pretreated for 14 days, and then I/R was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO). Learning and memory deficits were evaluated using the novel object recognition test (NORT). The percentage of infarct size, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GRx), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) levels was evaluated. Caspase-3 and Bcl-2 expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Compared to the I/R group, Hst-MWCNTs considerably reduced learning and memory deficits, infarct size, and MDA levels. CAT, SOD, GRx, GPx activities and GSH levels were significantly increased in the Hst-MWCNTs group than in the I/R group. Additionally, Hst-MWCNTs significantly reduced the Caspase-3 expression but increased the Bcl-2 expression. All these results indicated that MWCNTs could be used as a promising novel carrier to enhance the oral bioavailability of Hst and to treat cerebral I/R injury.

Water Extract of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Inhibits Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase-1B in Insulin-Resistant HepG2 Cells

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of mungbean water extract (MWE) on insulin downstream signaling in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Whole seed mungbean was extracted using boiling water, mimicking a traditional cooking method. Vitexin and isovitexin were identified in MWE. The results showed that MWE inhibited protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP)-1B (IC₅₀ = 10 μg/mL), a negative regulator of insulin signaling. MWE enhanced cellular glucose uptake and altered expression of genes involved in glucose metabolism, including forkhead box O1 (FOXO1), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β in the insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. In addition, MWE inhibited both α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 36.65 mg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 3.07 mg/mL). MWE also inhibited the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) (IC₅₀ = 2.28 mg/mL). This is the first study to show that mungbean water extract increased cellular glucose uptake and improved insulin sensitivity of insulin-resistant HepG2 cells through PTP-1B inhibition and modulating the expression of genes related to glucose metabolism. This suggests that mungbean water extract has the potential to be a functional ingredient for diabetes.

Mesoporous Polydopamine Nanoparticles Attenuate Morphine Tolerance in Neuropathic Pain Rats by Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Restoration of the Endogenous Antioxidant System

Oxidative stress resulting from reactive oxygen species (ROS) is known to play a key role in numerous neurological disorders, including neuropathic pain. Morphine is one of the commonly used opioids for pain management. However, long-term administration of morphine results in morphine antinociceptive tolerance (MAT) through elevation of ROS and suppression of natural antioxidant defense mechanisms. Recently, mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) nanoparticles (NPS) have been known to possess strong antioxidant properties. We speculated that morphine delivery through an antioxidant nanocarrier might be a reasonable strategy to alleviate MAT. MPDAs showed a high drug loading efficiency of ∼50%, which was much higher than conventional NPS. Spectral and in vitro studies suggest a superior ROS scavenging ability of NPS. Results from a rat neuropathic pain model demonstrate that MPDA-loaded morphine (MPDA@Mor) is efficient in minimizing MAT with prolonged analgesic effect and suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, serum levels of liver enzymes and levels of endogenous antioxidants were measured in the liver. Treatment with free morphine resulted in elevated levels of liver enzymes and significantly lowered the activities of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in comparison with the control and MPDA@Mor-treated group. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed that MPDA@Mor can significantly reduce the hepatotoxic effects of morphine. Taken together, our current work will provide an important insight into the development of safe and effective nano-antioxidant platforms for neuropathic pain management.

The Effect of Nigella Sativa on Renal Oxidative Injury in Diabetic Rats

Oxidative stress plays a key role in the evolution of diabetes complications. The current study looked into the potential effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on the oxidative injury of the rat kidneys in diabetic animals. The animals were placed into five study groups in a random manner as follows: (1) control, (2) diabetic, (3 and 4) treatment with two doses of N. sativa extract (200 and 400 mg/kg), and (5) treatment with metformin (300 mg/kg). The time course of administration was six weeks. The malondialdehyde (MD A) and total thiol groups, as well as the superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, were also assessed in the renal tissue and lipid profile in serum. In the diabetic groups, the level of MDA significantly increased (P < 0.01) and antioxidant levels decreased compared to the control (P < 0.05). In treated rats with N. sativa, the antioxidant status of renal tissue was improved (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). The lipid profile also improved in the rats treated with the extract (P < 0.001). Our findings suggest that long-term administration of N. sativa in diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin can improve the status of the oxidative stress in kidney tissue.

Exercise protects against ethanol-induced damage in rat heart and liver through the inhibition of apoptosis and activation of Nrf2/Keap-1/HO-1 pathway

PROPOSE

Understanding the protective effect of exercise against ethanol-induced toxicity through the oxidative stress signaling pathway, apoptosis, and cholesterol metabolism is important to prevent development of cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four equal groups as follow: control, exercise training (ET), ethanol (4 g/kg of body weight/day) and ET + ethanol. The ET and ET + Ethanol groups ran on the treadmill at 65% maximum running speed for 60 min for five sessions per week for eight weeks. The ethanol and ET + Ethanol groups received ethanol for eight weeks. At the end of the study, animals were anesthetized and blood and tissues were sampled to examine the biochemical and molecular evaluation.

RESULTS

The results showed that the antioxidant enzymes activity decreased and MDA levels increased in the heart and liver of animals in ethanol group compared to control group. The levels of these oxidative biomarkers improved by ET in ET + Ethanol group compared to ethanol group. It showed that ET could protect the heart and liver against oxidative damage induced by ethanol through up-regulating the expression of the Nrf2/Keap-1/HO-1 pathway. ET could exert a cardioprotective effect on ethanol-induced apoptosis through down-regulating the Bax and the caspase-3 and via up-regulating the Bcl-2 expression in the heart. ET could also improve the impairment of cholesterol metabolism induced by ethanol.

CONCLUSION

Exercise can protect against ethanol-induced toxicity through moderating the expression of genes which are involved in oxidative status, apoptosis and cholesterol metabolism.

Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds extract plays a beneficial role on brain antioxidant and oxidative status in alloxan-induced Wistar rats

Context

Trigonella foenum-graecum (TriFG) exhibits increased scavenger enzymatic activities and reduces the production of reactive oxygen species in diabetic rats.

Objective

The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of TriFG on lipid peroxidation levels and antioxidant status in brain tissue of rats exposed to alloxan.

Materials and Methods

Healthy male rats (180 ± 10 g) were allocated into five groups. Animals in group 1 maintained on normal tap water served as controls and rats in groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 were treated as experimental groups. Rats in group 2 were intraperitoneally injected with alloxan (120 mg/kg BW) and treated as diabetic rats, whereas rats in groups 3 and 4 were maintained on same experimental regimen as that of rats in groups 1 and 2, respectively, and in addition, they were orally gavaged with herbal extracts of TriFG (0.25 g/kg BW). Diabetic rats treated with glibenclamide in group 5 were used as positive controls.

Results and Discussion

Significant (P &lt; 0.001) increase in the antioxidant enzymes with a significant (P &lt; 0.001) decrease in the lipid peroxidation levels were observed in the brain tissue of diabetic rats treated with TriFG extract as compared to diabetic and glibenclamide-treated rats. No significant changes were observed in pro- and antioxidant levels in brain tissue of rats treated with TriFG extract alone when compared to normal rats. In diabetic rats, brain mitochondrial and cytosolic enzymes like succinate dehydrogenase, glutamate dehydrogenase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity levels were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) decreased with reversely increased was observed in lactate dehydrogenase activity (P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusions

The findings of the present study suggested that TriFG, through its antioxidant properties, protects brain tissue by mitigating oxidative stress induced by alloxan-exposed rats. TriFG extract significantly increased the antioxidant and oxidative properties in diabetic rats when compared with the control group rats.

Protective Effects of Curcumin and its Nano-Phytosome on Carrageenan-Induced Inflammation in Mice Model: Behavioral and Biochemical Responses

Background and purpose

Natural compounds are used for prevention of inflammation. Curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and loading it into nano-phytosomes may improve its efficiency. The present study investigates the effects of curcumin and its nano-phytosome on behavioral and biochemical responses in carrageenan-induced inflammation in the mice model.

Methods

The mice were divided into six groups and received oral administration of curcumin or its nano-phytosome at a dose of 15 mg/kg for seven days before the administration of carrageenan. Acute inflammation in the mice was induced by administration of carrageenan (1%) into the subplantar region of the left paw. Antioxidant activity and behavioral responses were then evaluated.

Results

The results showed that the serum concentrations of antioxidant enzymes were significantly higher in the sal+sal group compared to the cara+sal group (P<0.05). Using nanophytosome, separately and in combination with indomethacin, increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes compared to the cara+sal group (P<0.05). Latency was significantly lower in the cara+sal group compared to the cara+sal group (P<0.05), but it was considerably higher in other groups, especially in the cara+nano.ph.cur+indo group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

It can be stated that the nano-phytosome of curcumin could improve antioxidant and behavioral responses in inflamed mice.

Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract on Human Promyelocytic Leukemia Cells Subjected to Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is initiated by reactive oxygen species, the primary factor in many chronic diseases. Moringa oleifera possesses strong antioxidant properties due to the presence of various phytochemicals. In this study, we investigated the effect of M. oleifera leaf extract on markers of oxidative stress in HL60 cells exposed to oxidative stress. HL60 cells were incubated with different concentrations of M. oleifera leaf extract, and cells were harvested for viability assays on days 1, 2, and 3. Antioxidant indexes (malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) were measured on days 1, 2, and 3. Supplementation with the moringa leaf extract at all concentrations resulted in significant reductions in lipid peroxidation in cells that were or were not incubated in an environment with excess oxidative stress. The most significant reduction in this parameter occurred after 24 h of incubation. The results show that reductions seen in this parameter may be due to the modulation of the endogenous antioxidant defense system by extract supplementation. Cell viability was also improved in cells incubated in moringa leaf extract at concentrations of 800 and 1000 μg/mL. This finding, however, did not corroborate with lipid peroxidation results at 1000 μg/mL extract supplementation. Further investigations are needed to clarify the underlying mechanism responsible for increased cell viability at this concentration. We can, therefore, conclude that the moringa leaf extract offered added protection from oxidative stress within the first 24 h, as well as increasing cell viability at certain concentrations.

Experimental listeriosis: A study of purinergic and cholinergic inflammatory pathway

The cholinergic, purinergic and oxidative stress systems were related to nervous system damage in some pathologies, as well as being involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways. The objective was to investigate changes in purinergic, cholinergic systems and oxidative stress related to the neuropathology of listeriosis. Gerbils were used as experimental models. The animals were divided in two groups: control and infected. The animals were orally infected with 5 × 10⁸ CFU/animal of the pathogenic strain of Listeria monocytogenes. Collected of material was 6 and 12th days post-infection (PI). Infected animals showed moderate mixed inflammatory infiltrates in the liver. The spleen and brain was used for PCR analyses, confirming infection by L. monocytogenes. Increase in number of total leukocytes because of an increase in lymphocytes in infected (P < 0.001). ATP and ADP hydrolysis by NTPDase was lower at 6 and 12th days PI in infected animals than in the control group. ADA (adenosine deaminase) activity was higher on the 6th day PI (P < 0.05) and decreased on the 12th day PI (P < 0.05) in infected animals. AChE (acetylcholinesterase) activity did not differ between groups on the 6th day PI; however, activity decreased in infected group on the 12th day PI (P < 0.05). On the 12th day PI, an increase of oxygen-reactive species levels and lower catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in the infected group was observed, characterizing a situation of cerebral oxidative stress. The inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms are present in listeriosis in asymptomatic animals, and that ectonucleotidases and cholinesterase's are involved in immunomodulation.

Silymarin-albumin nanoplex: Preparation and its potential application as an antioxidant in nervous system in vitro and in vivo

In this study, we formulated silymarin-HSA nanoplex and assayed its ability to reduce LPS-induced toxicity in vitro and in vivo. Silymarin molecules were encapsulated into HSA nanoplex and the loading efficiency and characterization of fabricated nanoplex were performed by using HPLC, TEM, SEM, DLS, FTIR analysis, and theoretical studies. Afterwards, their protective effect against LPS (20 µg/ml) -induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells was investigated by MTT, ROS, and apoptosis assays. For in vivo experiments, rats were pre-treated with either silymarin or silymarin -HSA nanoplex (200 mg/kg) orally for 3 days and at third day received LPS by IP at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, 150 min before scarification followed by SOD and CAT activity assay. The formulation of silymarin-HSA nanoplex showed a spherical shape with an average diameter between 50 nm and 150 nm, hydrodynamic radius of 188.3 nm, zeta potential of -26.6 mV, and a drug loading of 97.3%. In LPS-treated cells, pretreatments with silymarin-HSA noncomplex recovered the cell viability and decreased the ROS level and corresponding apoptosis more significantly than free silymarin. In rats, it was also depicted that, silymarin-HSA noncomplex can increase the SOD and CAT activity in brain tissue at LPS-triggered oxidative stress model more significantly than the free counterpart. Therefore, nanoformulation of silymarin improved its capability to reduce LPS-induced oxidative stress by restoring cell viability and elevation of SOD and CAT activity in vitro and in vivo, respectively. In conclusion, formulation of silymarin may hold a great promise in the development of antioxidant agents.

Trigonella foenum-graceum seed (Fenugreek) hydroalcoholic extract improved the oxidative stress status in a rat model of diabetes-induced memory impairment

Background

The antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of Trigonella foenum-graceum have been suggested. The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of the plant seeds and metformin against the diabetes-induced memory impairment were investigated.

Materials and methods

The rats were treated: (1) control, (2) diabetic (3–6) and diabetic rats treated by 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of the plant extract or metformin. The rats were diabetic by streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg). After the passive avoidance test, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, total thiol (SH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined in the brain.

Results

In the diabetic group, at 3, 24 and 48 h after receiving a shock, the latency to enter the dark room was lower than for the controls (p < 0.001). All doses of the extract and metformin increased the latencies to enter the dark at 3 and 24 h after the shock treatment (p < 0.05–p < 0.001). Additionally, the two higher doses of the extract and metformin increased the latency at 48 h after the shock (p < 0.05–p < 0.001). Diabetes also elevated MDA and NO metabolites, while it reduced thiol, SOD and CAT in the hippocampal and cortical tissues (p < 0.001). Treatment of the diabetic animals by the highest dose of the extract and also metformin reduced the MDA and NO metabolites, while it improved thiols, SOD and CAT (p < 0.01–p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Based on our findings, metformin and the hydro-alcoholic extract from the T. foenum-graceum seed prevented memory deficits resulting from diabetes. Preventing oxidative damage in the brain may at least, in part, be responsible for the positive effects of the extract and metformin.

α-Amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitor effects and pancreatic response to diabetes mellitus on Wistar rats of Ephedra alata areal part decoction with immunohistochemical analyses

Ephedra alata, known as a medicinal plant in China, was used in this study as aqueous extract from aerial parts, for diabetes mellitus treatment. This study was carried out on two parts, in vitro, we tested the effect of the studied extract on the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, and in vivo on Wistar male rats receiving alloxan intraperitoneally at a rate of 125 mg/kg. Extract (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg of body weight) was administrated for 28 days by oral gavage. Blood glucose, amylase, lipase, and lipid profile level were determined. Oxidative stress was evaluated by enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and by estimation of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl (PC) level. Histopathological changes in pancreas were investigated under photonic microscopy using immunohistochemical procedure. Our findings showed that aqueous extract inhibited in vitro both α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities and its use in vivo at 300 mg/kg of body weight restored pancreas weight and weight gain, ameliorated significantly (p ˂ 0.05) biochemical parameters; it prevented the increase in lipid and protein oxidation and the decrease in enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense system. Histological study of treated animals showed a comparable healed regeneration of beta cells.

Vanadium in Biosphere and Its Role in Biological Processes

Ultra-trace elements or occasionally beneficial elements (OBE) are the new categories of minerals including vanadium (V). The importance of V is attributed due to its multifaceted biological roles, i.e., glucose and lipid metabolism as an insulin-mimetic, antilipemic and a potent stress alleviating agent in diabetes when vanadium is administered at lower doses. It competes with iron for transferrin (binding site for transportation) and with lactoferrin as it is secreted in milk also. The intracellular enzyme protein tyrosine phosphatase, causing the dephosphorylation at beta subunit of the insulin receptor, is inhibited by vanadium, thus facilitating the uptake of glucose inside the cell but only in the presence of insulin. Vanadium could be useful as a potential immune-stimulating agent and also as an antiinflammatory therapeutic metallodrug targeting various diseases. Physiological state and dose of vanadium compounds hold importance in causing toxicity also. Research has been carried out mostly on laboratory animals but evidence for vanadium importance as a therapeutic agent are available in humans and large animals also. This review examines the potential biochemical and molecular role, possible kinetics and distribution, essentiality, immunity, and toxicity-related study of vanadium in a biological system.

Trigonelline prevents high cholesterol and high fat diet induced hepatic lipid accumulation and lipo-toxicity in C57BL/6J mice, via restoration of hepatic autophagy

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is often linked with impaired hepatic autophagy. Here, we studied the alterations in hepatocellular autophagy by high cholesterol and high-fat diet (HC-HF) diet in C57BL/6J mice, and by palmitic acid (PA), in AML-12 and HepG2 cells. Further, we analysed role of Trigonelline (TG), a plant alkaloid, in preventing NAFLD, by modulating autophagy. For this, C57BL/6J mice were fed with Standard Chow (SC) or HC-HF diet, with and without TG for 16 weeks. In-vitro; AML-12 cells and HepG2 cells, were exposed to PA with and without TG, for 24 h. Cellular events related to autophagy, lipogenesis, and lipo-toxicity were studied. The HC-HF diet fed mice showed hepatic autophagy blockade, increased triglycerides and steatosis. PA exposure to AML-12 cells and HepG2 cells induced impaired autophagy, ER stress, resulting in lipotoxicity. TG treatment in HC-HF fed mice, restored hepatic autophagy, and prevented steatosis. TG treated AML-12, and HepG2 cells exposed to PA showed autophagy restoration, and reduced lipotoxicity, however, these effects were diminished in Atg7-/- HepG2 cells, and in the presence of chloroquine. This study shows that HC-HF diet-induced impaired autophagy, and steatosis is prevented by TG, which attributes to its novel mechanism in treating NAFLD.

Neuroprotective Effect of Quercetin Nanocrystal in a 6-Hydroxydopamine Model of Parkinson Disease: Biochemical and Behavioral Evidence

Introduction:

Studies have suggested that free radicals-induced neurodegeneration is one of the many studies of Parkinson Disease (PD). Quercetin as a natural polyphenol has been regarded as a significant player in altering the progression of neurodegenerative diseases by protecting from damages caused by free radicals. Owing to its poor water solubility, preparation of its oral formulation is urgently needed. Recently, nanocrystal technique as an effective way has been introduced for oral administration of drugs.

Methods:

This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of quercetin nanocrystals on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced Parkinson-like model in male rats. Quercetin nanocrystals were prepared by the Evaporative Precipitation of Nanosuspension (EPN) method.

Results:

Administration of quercetin and its nanocrystals (10 and 25 mg/kg) prevented disruption of memory, increased antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase) and total glutathione and reduced Malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the hippocampal area.

Conclusion:

The present study results demonstrated that quercetin nanocrystals with greater bioavailability is effective than quercetin alone in treatment of Parkinson-like model in rat.

Hesperetin and it nanocrystals ameliorate social behavior deficits and oxido-inflammatory stress in rat model of autism

Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) induces behavioral disorders and enhancement of oxido-inflammatory stress in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). The aim of this study was to investigate the comparative effects of hesperetin (Hst) and nano-hesperetin on social behavior deficits and oxido-inflammatory indexes in prenatally valproic acid-exposed rat offspring. Pregnant Wistar rats on embryonic day 0 (E0) were segregated into six groups; Group-1 served as vehicle, received distillated water orally (PO) from E1 until the end of lactation and saline intraperitoneally (i.p) on E12.5. Group-2 received sodium valproate (500 mg/kg in 0.9% saline, i.p) on E12.5 was considered as VPA-exposed group, Group-3 to 6 were VPA-exposed which received hesperetin and nano-hesperetin (10 and 20 mg/kg/day, PO) from E0 until the end of lactation respectively. Social interaction and open field tests were conducted on postnatal day 28 (PND 28) and PND 30, cerebral antioxidant enzymes activity and biochemical indexes, the level of inflammatory factors in plasma and histopathology of cerebellum were estimated on PND 28 and PND 30. Prenatal valproic acid-exposed rat exhibited poor sociability and high level of anxiety-like behaviors (P <  0.05). In addition, increased level of oxidative stress and inflammation were found by determining different oxido-inflammatory markers. Hesperetin and nano-hesperetin treatment improved the behavioral disorder and reduced the oxidative stress in brain and significantly (p <  0.05) plasma's inflammation indexes. In conclusion, it can be state that nano-hesperetin exerts neuroprotective action in comparison with hesperetin and could be efficacious for treatment of VPA animal model of autism during pregnancy and lactation.

hsDNA groove binding, photocatalytic activity, and in vitro breast and colon cancer cell reducing function of greener SeNPs

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted great attention because of their superior optical properties and wide utilization in biological and biomedical studies. This paper reports an environmentally benign procedure of greener monodispersible SeNP synthesis using the reducing power of Trigonella foenum-graecum extract, characterization and their protective effect against unfolded (Herring sperm DNA) hsDNA. We investigated the anti-cancer activity of SeNPs against MCF-7, MDA MB 435 and COLO-205 cells. The photocatalytic activity of SeNPs was investigated for the degradation of a Sunset Yellow FCF (SYFCF) dye using ultraviolet-B light. The reduction of the Se ion to SeNPs was monitored by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). The size and morphology of the SeNPs were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The SeNPs were stable, and the diameter was homogeneous at around 5-12 nm. Interactions of various concentrations of SeNPs with hsDNA were systematically investigated by UV-vis, fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), polarimetry and FTIR spectroscopy under physiological conditions. The results from fluorescence spectroscopy indicated that SeNPs quenched the fluorescence intensity of hsDNA with increasing concentrations. The modified Stern-Volmer quenching rate constant Ksv, binding constant K and binding sites n at different temperatures and the corresponding thermodynamic parameters ΔH°, ΔG° and ΔS° were calculated. Hoechst 33258 and methyl green (MG) site markers, melting experiment (Tm), viscosity measurements and sequence specificity verification by DNA bases clarified that SeNPs bind to hsDNA via a groove site. The rate of photocatalytic degradation of the SYFCF dye in the presence and absence of photocatalysts (SeNPs) was studied using UV-vis, the results showed appreciable degradation of the SYFCF dye. Our results suggested that nano Se can be used as a promising selenium species with potential application in cancer treatment. These nanoparticles were found to be the most active cytotoxic agent prepared in a new green synthesis manner, causing >50% inhibition of MCF-7, MDA MB-435 and COLO-205 cell proliferation at concentrations <10(-7) M. Hence these SeNPs could be recognized as promising materials for biomedical applications.

A Novel Antidiabetic Food Produced via Solid-State Fermentation of Tartary Buckwheat by L. plantarum TK9 and L. paracasei TK1501

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycaemia and a number of potential complications that significantly reduce the patient's quality of life. In this study, we produced an antidiabetic functional food from Tartary buckwheat fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum TK9 and L. paracasei TK1501. The results of an orthogonal experimental design indicated that the three factors with the largest effects on the growth of L. plantarum TK9 and L. paracasei TK1501 in solid-state fermentation (SSF) were in the order: water ratio>inoculum size>time of fermentation. Under the optimal fermentation conditions comprising a 1:1.5 water ratio, 24 h of SSF and a 10⁷ CFU/g inoculum, the Tartary buckwheat fermented by L. plantarum TK9 and L. paracasei TK1501 yielded viable probiotic counts of (2.3±0.7)·10⁹ and (3.3±0.4)·10⁹ CFU/g, respectively. The nutritional potential, as well as antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of ethanolic extracts from fermented Tartary buckwheat were investigated. The highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, with an IC₅₀ of 0.51 mg/mL, was present in Tartary buckwheat fermented by L. plantarum TK9. However, Tartary buckwheat fermented by L. paracasei TK1501 had the highest dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibition, with an IC₅₀ of 2.47 mg/mL. Therefore, fermentation by both L. plantarum TK9 and L. paracasei TK1501 has the potential to yield a product that can help regulate the levels of blood glucose as part of a diabetic diet.

Haemato-protective influence of dietary fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) seeds is potentiated by onion (Allium cepa L.) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

We have recently reported the beneficial modulation of metabolic abnormalities and oxidative stress in diabetic rats by dietary fenugreek seeds and onion. This investigation evaluated the protective influence of dietary fenugreek seeds (100 g kg^-1) and onion (30 g kg^-1) on erythrocytes of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, through modulation of reduced haematological indices and antisickling potency. This study also evaluated the altered erythrocyte membrane lipid profile and beneficial countering of increased lipid peroxidation, osmotic fragility, along with reduced membrane fluidity and deformability, nitric oxide production and echinocyte formation. Dietary fenugreek seeds and onion appeared to counter the deformity and fragility of erythrocytes partially in diabetic rats by their antioxidant potential and hypocholesterolemic property. The antisickling potency of these spices was accomplished by a substantial decrease in echinocyte population and AGEs in diabetic rats. Further insight into the factors that might have reduced the fluidity of erythrocytes in diabetic rats revealed changes in the cholesterol: phospholipid ratio, fatty acid profile, and activities of membrane-bound enzymes. Dietary fenugreek seeds and onion offered a beneficial protective effect to the red blood cells, the effect being higher with fenugreek + onion. This is the first report on the hemato-protective influence of a nutraceutical food component in diabetic situation.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant and Anti-Hyperglycemic Activities of Moroccan Oat Cultivars

Improvement of oat lines via introgression is an important process for food biochemical functionality. This work aims to evaluate the protective effect of phenolic compounds from hybrid Oat line (F11-5) and its parent (Amlal) on hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and to establish the possible mechanisms of antidiabetic activity by digestive enzyme inhibition. Eight phenolic acids were quantified in our samples including ferulic, p-hydroxybenzoic, caffeic, salicylic, syringic, sinapic, p-coumaric and chlorogenic acids. The Oat extract (2000 mg/kg) ameliorated the glucose tolerance, decreased Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) and oxidative stress markers, including Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione (GSH) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) in rat liver and kidney. Furthermore, Metformin and Oat intake prevented anxiety, hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in diabetic rats. In vivo anti-hyperglycemic effect of Oat extracts has been confirmed by their inhibitory activities on α-amylase (723.91 μg/mL and 1027.14 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (1548.12 μg/mL & 1803.52 μg/mL) enzymes by mean of a mixed inhibition.

Quercetin improves endothelial function in diabetic rats through inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated oxidative stress

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress attributes a crucial role in diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction. The present study investigated the effects of quercetin, a potent antioxidant on the attenuation of ER stress-modulated endothelial dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of quercetin for six weeks to diabetic rats dose-dependently reduced the blood glucose levels and improved insulin secretion. Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissues in diabetic rats showed pathological changes such as shrunken islets, reduction in islet area and distorted β-cells, which were found to be restored by quercetin treatment. In addition, quercetin reduced the pancreatic ER stress-induced endothelial dysfunction as assessed by immunohistochemical analysis of C/ERB homologous protein (CHOP) and endothelin-1 (ET-1). Moreover, quercetin administration progressively increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor, VEGFR2 in diabetes rats. Quercetin-mediated decrease in the nitric oxide (NO∙) and cyclic 3',5'- guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels were also observed in the diabetic rats. Quercetin treatment reduced the lipid peroxidation in the diabetic rats, meanwhile increased the total antioxidant capacity in the pancreas from diabetic rats. Altogether, these results demonstrated the vasoprotective effect of quercetin against STZ-induced ER stress in the pancreas of diabetic rats.

Neuroprotective effect of hesperetin and nano-hesperetin on recognition memory impairment and the elevated oxygen stress in rat model of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive dementia affecting a large proportion of the aging population. There is evidence that brain tissue in patients with AD is exposed to oxidative stress during the course of the disease. Hesperetin (Hst) is a natural flavonoid, which has been reported to exert various biological activities such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of hesperetin and nano-hesperetin on neurobehavioral activity and superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRx) and catalase (CAT) enzymes activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels in hippocampal area of rats in an experimental model of AD. The AD was induced in animals by intracerebroventricular injection of STZ (icv-STZ) unilaterally. Animals were treated with the Hst and nano-Hst (10, 20 mg/kg body weight), then after three successive weeks, recognition memory was examined (passive avoidance test and novel object recognition test) and antioxidant parameters were evaluated. In our study behavioral testes showed improvement on memory retrieval and recognition memory consolidation. Furthermore the Hst and nano-Hst increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, glutathione GPx, GRx and CAT) and GSH levels and decreased MDA in the hippocampal area. These results suggested that Hst and nano-Hst may inhibit STZ-induced oxidative stress, and that it may possess therapeutic potential for the treatment of AD.

Pancreatic and renal function in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats administered combined inositol hexakisphosphate and inositol supplement

Diabetes mellitus, as a result of microvascular and macrovascular injury, causes organ dysfunction in a wide variety of tissues. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of combined inositol hexakisphosphate and inositol supplement on renal and pancreatic integrity in type 2 diabetic rats. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=6 per group). Type 2 diabetes was induced in three groups using high-fat diet combined with a single dose of streptozotocin (35mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally). Two of the diabetic groups were treated with combined IP6 and inositol or glibenclamide. Serum biochemical markers of kidney damage kidney, antioxidant status (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation were measured. Histomorphological and morphometric examinations of the H&E stained pancreas were also carried out. The administration of combined IP6 and inositol supplement resulted in 64% and 27% increase in CAT activities and GSH levels respectively and a 25% decrease in lipid peroxidation level compared to the diabetic control. Serum uric acid, creatinine and BUN levels in the combination treated group was comparable to the normal control. Examination of H&E stained pancreatic sections showed a significant increase (107%) in the number of islets in the combined IP6 and inositol treated group compared to the untreated diabetic group. Overall, the treatment of type 2 diabetic rats with combined IP6 and inositol supplement resulted in the improvement of renal and pancreatic function.

Diphenyleneiodonium Mitigates Bupivacaine-Induced Sciatic Nerve Damage in a Diabetic Neuropathy Rat Model by Attenuating Oxidative Stress

BACKGROUND

Increased oxidative stress has been linked to local anesthetic-induced nerve injury in a diabetic neuropathy (DN) rat model. The current study explores the effects of diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) chloride, an NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor, on bupivacaine-induced sciatic nerve injury in DN rats.

METHODS

A rat DN model was established through high-fat diet feeding and streptozotocin injection. The model was confirmed via testing (i) blood glucose, (ii) hindpaw allodynia responses to von Frey (VF) monofilaments, (iii) paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL), and (iv) nerve conduction velocity (NCV). Bupivacaine (Bup, 0.2 mL, 5 mg/mL) was used to block the right sciatic nerve. DPI (1 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously 24 hours and 30 minutes before the sciatic block. At 24 hours after the block, NCV, various reactive oxygen species, and Caspase-3 were evaluated to determine the extent of sciatic nerve injury.

RESULTS

The DN rat model was successfully established. Compared with the DN control group, the postblock values of VF responses (DN-Con, 16.5 ± 1.3 g; DN + Bup, 19.1 ± 1.5 g, P < .001) and PWTL significantly increased (DN-Con, 13.3 ± 1.1 seconds; DN + Bup, 14.6 ± 1.1 seconds, P = .028); the NCV of sciatic nerve was significantly reduced (DN-Con, 38.8 ± 2.4 m/s, DN + Bup, 30.5 ± 2.0 m/s, P = .003), and sciatic nerve injury (as indicated by axonal area) was more severe in the bupivacaine-treated DN group (DN-Con, 11.6 ± 0.3 μm, DN + Bup, 7.5 ± 0.3 μm, P < .001). In addition, DPI treatment significantly improved nerve function (VF responses, 17.3 ± 1.3 g; PWTL, 13.4 ± 1.1 seconds; NCV, 35.6 ± 3.1 m/s) and mitigated loss of axonal area (9.6 ± 0.3 μm). Compared to the DN + Bup group (without DPI), the levels of lipid peroxides and hydroperoxides, as well as the protein expression of NOX2, NOX4, and Caspase-3, were significantly reduced in the DN + Bup + DPI group (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Subcutaneous injection of DPI appears to protect against the functional and neurohistological damage of bupivacaine-blocked sciatic nerves in a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced DN model.