Measuring reactive species and oxidative damage in vivo and in cell culture: how should you do it and what do the results mean?

Microbial-transcriptome integrative analysis of heat stress effects on amino acid metabolism and lipid peroxidation in poultry jejunum

Despite the significant threat of heat stress to livestock animals, only a few studies have considered the potential relationship between broiler chickens and their microbiota. Therefore, this study examined microbial modifications, transcriptional changes and host-microbiome interactions using a predicted metabolome data-based approach to understand the impact of heat stress on poultry. After the analysis, the host functional enrichment analysis revealed that pathways related to lipid and protein metabolism were elevated under heat stress conditions. In contrast, pathways related to the cell cycle were suppressed under normal environmental temperatures. In line with the transcriptome analysis, the microbial analysis results indicate that taxonomic changes affect lipid degradation. Heat stress engendered statistically significant difference in the abundance of 11 microorganisms, including Bacteroides and Peptostreptococcacea. Together, integrative approach analysis suggests that microbiota-induced metabolites affect host fatty acid peroxidation metabolism, which is correlated with the gene families of Acyl-CoA dehydrogenase long chain (ACADL), Acyl-CoA Oxidase (ACOX) and Acetyl-CoA Acyltransferase (ACAA). This integrated approach provides novel insights into heat stress problems and identifies potential biomarkers associated with heat stress.

Heat stress in symbiotic dinoflagellates: Implications on oxidative stress and cellular changes

Global warming has been shown to harmfully affect symbiosis between Symbiodiniaceae and other marine invertebrates. When symbiotic dinoflagellates (the genus Breviolum) were in vitro exposed to acute heat stress of +7 °C for a period of 5 days, the results revealed the negative impact on all physiological and other cellular parameters measured. Elevated temperatures resulted in a severe reduction in algal density of up to 9.5-fold, as well as pigment concentrations, indicating the status of the physiological stress and early signs of photo-bleaching. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were increased in all heated dinoflagellate cells, while the antioxidant-reduced glutathione levels initially dropped on day one but increased under prolonged temperature stress. The cell viability parameters were reduced by 97 % over the heating period, with an increased proportion of apoptotic and necrotic cells. Autofluorescence (AF) for Cy5-PE 660-20 was reduced from 1.7-fold at day 1 to up to 50-fold drop at the end of heating time, indicating that the AF changes were highly sensitive to heat stress and that it could be an extremely sensitive tool for assessing the functionality of algal photosynthetic machinery. The addition of the drug 5-AZA-2'-deoxycytidine (5-AZA), which inhibits DNA methylation processes, was assessed in parallel and contributed to some alterations in algal cellular stress response. The presence of drug 5-AZA combined with the temperature stress had an additional impact on Symbiodiniaceae density and cell complexity, including the AF levels. These variations in cellular stress response under heat stress and compromised DNA methylation conditions may indicate the importance of this epigenetic mechanism for symbiotic dinoflagellate thermal tolerance adaptability over a longer period, which needs further exploration. Consequently, the increased ROS levels and changes in AF signals reported during ongoing heat stress in dinoflagellate cells could be used as early stress biomarkers in these microalgae and potentially other photosynthetic species.

Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase 1 is dispensable in macrophage differentiation and anti-pathogen response

Macrophages play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response against pathogens. While the intricate interplay between macrophage activation and metabolism remains a subject of intense investigation, the role of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase 1 (Got1) in this context has not been extensively assessed. Here, we investigate the impact of Got1 on macrophage polarization and function, shedding light on its role in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, pathogen defense, and immune paralysis. Using genetically modified mouse models, including both myeloid specific knockout and overexpression, we comprehensively demonstrate that Got1 depletion leads to reduced ROS production in macrophages. Intriguingly, this impairment in ROS generation does not affect the resistance of Got1 KO mice to pathogenic challenges. Furthermore, Got1 is dispensable for M2 macrophage differentiation and does not influence the onset of LPS-induced immune paralysis. Our findings underscore the intricate facets of macrophage responses, suggesting that Got1 is dispensable in discrete immunological processes.

Exploring the Link between Oxidative Stress, Selenium Levels, and Obesity in Youth

Obesity is a worldwide increasing concern. Although in adults this is easily estimated with the body mass index, in children, who are constantly growing and whose bodies are changing, the reference points to assess weight status are age and gender, and need corroboration with complementary data, making their quantification highly difficult. The present review explores the interaction spectrum of oxidative stress, selenium status, and obesity in children and adolescents. Any factor related to oxidative stress that triggers obesity and, conversely, obesity that induces oxidative stress are part of a vicious circle, a complex chain of mechanisms that derive from each other and reinforce each other with serious health consequences. Selenium and its compounds exhibit key antioxidant activity and also have a significant role in the nutritional evaluation of obese children. The balance of selenium intake, retention, and metabolism emerges as a vital aspect of health, reflecting the complex interactions between diet, oxidative stress, and obesity. Understanding whether selenium status is a contributor to or a consequence of obesity could inform nutritional interventions and public health strategies aimed at preventing and managing obesity from an early age.

Dual Effect of Carnosine on ROS Formation in Rat Cultured Cortical Astrocytes

Carnosine is composed of β-alanine and L-histidine and is considered to be an important neuroprotective agent with antioxidant, metal chelating, and antisenescence properties. However, children with serum carnosinase deficiency present increased circulating carnosine and severe neurological symptoms. We here investigated the in vitro effects of carnosine on redox and mitochondrial parameters in cultured cortical astrocytes from neonatal rats. Carnosine did not alter mitochondrial content or mitochondrial membrane potential. On the other hand, carnosine increased mitochondrial superoxide anion formation, levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and oxidation of 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCF-DA), indicating that carnosine per se acts as a pro-oxidant agent. Nonetheless, carnosine prevented DCF-DA oxidation induced by H2O2 in cultured cortical astrocytes. Since alterations on mitochondrial membrane potential are not likely to be involved in these effects of carnosine, the involvement of N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the pro-oxidant actions of carnosine was investigated. MK-801, an antagonist of NMDA receptors, prevented DCF-DA oxidation induced by carnosine in cultured cortical astrocytes. Astrocyte reactivity induced by carnosine was also prevented by the coincubation with MK-801. The present study shows for the very first time the pro-oxidant effects of carnosine per se in astrocytes. The data raise awareness on the importance of a better understanding of the biological actions of carnosine, a nutraceutical otherwise widely reported as devoid of side effects.

Thymol increases primordial follicle activation, protects stromal cells, collagen fibers and down-regulates expression of mRNA for superoxide dismutase 1, catalase and periredoxin 6 in cultured bovine ovarian tissues

This study aims to investigate the influence of thymol on primordial follicle growth and survival, as well as on collagen fibers and stromal cells density in bovine ovarian tissues cultured in vitro. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), the thiol levels and the expression of mRNAs for SOD1, CAT, periredoxin 6 (PRDX6) and GPX1 were also investigated. Ovarian cortical tissues were cultured in α-MEM+ alone or with thymol (400, 800, 1600 or 3200 μg/mL) for six days. Before and after culture, the tissues were processed for histological analysis to evaluate follicular activation, growth, morphology, ovarian stromal cell density and collagen fibers. The levels of mRNA for SOD1, CAT, GPX1 and PRDX6 were evaluated by real-time PCR. The results show that tissues cultured with thymol (400 and 800 µg/mL) had increased percentages of normal follicles, when compared to tissues cultured in other treatments. At concentrations of 400 and 800 µg/mL, thymol maintained the rate of normal follicles similar to the uncultured control. In addition, 400 µg/mL thymol increased follicle activation, collagen fibers and stromal cell density of when compared to tissues cultured in control medium. The presence of 800 µg/mL thymol in culture medium increased CAT activity, while 400 or 800 µg/mL thymol reduced mRNA levels for SOD1, CAT and PRDX6, but did not alter GPX1 expression. In conclusion, 400 µg/mL thymol increases primordial follicle activation, preserves stromal cells, collagen fibers, and down-regulates expression of mRNA for SOD1, CAT and PRDX6 in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.

Prolactin is an Endogenous Antioxidant Factor in Astrocytes That Limits Oxidative Stress-Induced Astrocytic Cell Death via the STAT3/NRF2 Signaling Pathway

Oxidative stress-induced death of neurons and astrocytes contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous neurodegenerative diseases. While significant progress has been made in identifying neuroprotective molecules against neuronal oxidative damage, little is known about their counterparts for astrocytes. Prolactin (PRL), a hormone known to stimulate astroglial proliferation, viability, and cytokine expression, exhibits antioxidant effects in neurons. However, its role in protecting astrocytes from oxidative stress remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the effect of PRL against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative insult in primary cortical astrocyte cultures. Incubation of astrocytes with PRL led to increased enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), resulting in higher total antioxidant capacity. Concomitantly, PRL prevented H2O2-induced cell death, reactive oxygen species accumulation, and protein and lipid oxidation. The protective effect of PRL upon H2O2-induced cell death can be explained by the activation of both signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2 (NRF2) transduction cascades. We demonstrated that PRL induced nuclear translocation and transcriptional upregulation of Nrf2, concurrently with the transcriptional upregulation of the NRF2-dependent genes heme oxygenase 1, Sod1, Sod2, and Gpx1. Pharmacological blockade of STAT3 suppressed PRL-induced transcriptional upregulation of Nrf2, Sod1 and Gpx1 mRNA, and SOD and GPX activities. Furthermore, genetic ablation of the PRL receptor increased astroglial susceptibility to H2O2-induced cell death and superoxide accumulation, while diminishing their intrinsic antioxidant capacity. Overall, these findings unveil PRL as a potent antioxidant hormone that protects astrocytes from oxidative insult, which may contribute to brain neuroprotection.

Oxidative Stress-Associated Male Infertility: Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

Infertility is a prevalent global issue affecting approximately 17.5% of adults, with sole male factor contributing to 20-30% of cases. Oxidative stress (OS) is a critical factor in male infertility, disrupting the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants. This imbalance detrimentally affects sperm function and viability, ultimately impairing fertility. OS also triggers molecular changes in sperm, including DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and alterations in protein expression, further compromising sperm functionality and potential fertilization. Diagnostic tools discussed in this review offer insights into OS markers, antioxidant levels, and intracellular ROS concentrations. By accurately assessing these parameters, clinicians can diagnose male infertility more effectively and thus tailor treatment plans to individual patients. Additionally, this review explores various treatment options for males with OS-associated infertility, such as empirical drugs, antioxidants, nanoantioxidants, and lifestyle modifications. By addressing the root causes of male infertility and implementing targeted interventions, clinicians can optimize treatment outcomes and enhance the chances of conception for couples struggling with infertility.

Melatonin Mitigates Lead-Induced Oxidative Stress and Modifies Phospholipid Profile in Tobacco BY-2 Suspension Cells

Many studies have shown that melatonin (an indoleamine) is an important molecule in plant physiology. It is known that this indoleamine is crucial during plant stress responses, especially by counteracting secondary oxidative stress (efficient direct and indirect antioxidant) and switching on different defense plant strategies. In this report, we present exogenous melatonin's potential to protect lipid profile modification and membrane integrity in Nicotiana tabacum L. line Bright Yellow 2 (BY-2) cell culture exposed to lead. There are some reports of the positive effect of melatonin on animal cell membranes; ours is the first to report changes in the lipid profile in plant cells. The experiments were performed in the following variants: LS: cells cultured on unmodified LS medium-control; (ii) MEL: BY-2 cells cultured on LS medium with melatonin added from the beginning of culture; (iii) Pb: BY-2 cells cultured on LS medium with Pb2+ added on the 4th day of culture; (iv) MEL+Pb: BY-2 cells cultured on LS medium with melatonin added from the start of culture and stressed with Pb2+ added on the 4th day of culture. Lipidomic analysis of BY-2 cells revealed the presence of 40 different phospholipids. Exposing cells to lead led to the overproduction of ROS, altered fatty acid composition and increased PLD activity and subsequently elevated the level of phosphatidic acid at the cost of dropping the phosphatidylcholine. In the presence of lead, double-bond index elevation, mainly by higher quantities of linoleic (C18:2) and linolenic (C18:3) acids in the log phase of growth, was observed. In contrast, cells exposed to heavy metal but primed with melatonin showed more similarities with the control. Surprisingly, the overproduction of ROS caused of lipid peroxidation only in the stationary phase of growth, although considerable changes in lipid profiles were observed in the log phase of growth-just 4 h after lead administration. Our results indicate that the pretreatment of BY-2 with exogenous melatonin protected tobacco cells against membrane dysfunctions caused by oxidative stress (lipid oxidation), but also findings on a molecular level suggest the possible role of this indoleamine in the safeguarding of the membrane lipid composition that limited lead-provoked cell death. The presented research indicates a new mechanism of the defense strategy of plant cells generated by melatonin.

The presence of virulence factor genes downregulates uterine AQP3 and alters glutathione peroxidase activity and uterine histopathology in canine pyometra

Present study was designed to evaluate the role of virulence factor genes (papG, cnf1 and hylA) in the pathogenesis of canine pyometra. Antimicrobial susceptibility test and detection of virulence genes were performed Escherichia coli (E. coli) detected in uterine swab samples. Animals were divided into two groups based on the presence (VF+, n:14) or absence (VF-, n:7) of the virulence factor genes papG, cnf1 and hylA. Blood and tissue glutathione peroxidase activity, uterine histopathologic analysis and AQP3, ESR1, PGR, OXTR gene expressions were determined in both groups. Statistical analyses were performed using Stata version 15.1. All E. coli isolates were susceptible to amikacin, whereas resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and lincomycin. None of the isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime. E. coli isolates had at least one virulence gene. The most prevalent gene was fimH (100%), followed by fyuA (95.8%), usp (83.3%), sfa (75%), cnf1 and hlyA (70.8%) genes. Blood GPx activity was greater in VF+ animals. On the other hand, uterine tissue GPx activity was lower in VF+ group compared to the control group. Expression levels of AQP3 were upregulated more than fivefold in VF-dogs compared to the control group. In addition, AQP3 expression levels were found approximately threefold higher in VF (-) than VF (+) group (p < .05). Varying degree of inflammation noted for all animals with pyometra, but the presence of bacteria noted only in VF+ animals. In conclusion, the presence of virulence factor genes does not play a role in the histopathological degree of inflammation, the presence of bacteria was found to vary. Serum GPx activity increased in VF+ animals. While the hormone receptor expressions were similar, AQP expression was upregulated in the absence of virulence factor genes.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids Supplementation and Post-Exercise Recovery: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

Objective: This overview of systematic reviews (OoSRs) aimed, firstly, to systematically review, summarize, and appraise the findings of published systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses that investigate the effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) on post-exercise recovery of muscle damage biomarkers, muscle soreness, and muscle performance. The secondary objective was to re-analyze and standardize the results of meta-analyses using the random-effects Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman (HKSJ) method.Methods: The methodological quality of the reviews was assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2.We searched on five databases (i.e., PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, ProQuest) for systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses that investigated the effects of BCAA supplementation on the post-exercise recovery of muscle damage biomarkers, muscle soreness, and muscle performance.Results: Eleven systematic reviews (seven with meta-analyses) of individual studies were included. Evidence suggests BCAA ingestion attenuates creatine kinase (CK) levels (medium effects) and muscle soreness (small effects) immediately post-exercise and accelerates their recovery process, with trivial-to-large effects for CK levels and small-to-large effects for muscle soreness. BCAA supplementation has no effect on lactate dehydrogenase, myoglobin, and muscle performance recovery. The re-analyses with HKSJ method using the original data reported a slight change in results significance, concluding the same evidence as the original results. The major flaws found in the analyzed reviews were the absence of justification for excluding studies, and the lack of provision of sources of funding for primary studies and sources of conflict of interest and/or funding description.Conclusions: BCAA supplementation is an effective method to reduce post-exercise muscle damage biomarkers, particularly CK levels, and muscle soreness, with no effect on muscle performance. Future systematic reviews with/without meta-analyses, with greater methodological rigor, are needed.

Reactive oxygen species signalling in the deterioration of quality of mammalian oocytes cultured in vitro: Protective effect of antioxidants

The in vitro fertilization (IVF) is the first choice of infertile couples worldwide to plan for conception. Besides having a significant advancement in IVF procedure, the success rate is still poor. Although several approaches have been tested to improve IVF protocol, minor changes in culture conditions, physical factors and/or drug treatment generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oocytes. Due to large size and huge number of mitochondria, oocyte is more susceptible towards ROS-mediated signalling under in vitro culture conditions. Elevation of ROS levels destabilize maturation promoting factor (MPF) that results in meiotic exit from diplotene as well as metaphase-II (M-II) arrest in vitro. Once meiotic exit occurs, these oocytes get further arrested at metaphase-I (M-I) stage or metaphase-III (M-III)-like stage under in vitro culture conditions. The M-I as well as M-III arrested oocytes are not fit for fertilization and limits IVF outcome. Further, the generation of excess levels of ROS cause oxidative stress (OS) that initiate downstream signalling to initiate various death pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis and deteriorates oocyte quality under in vitro culture conditions. The increase of cellular enzymatic antioxidants and/or supplementation of exogenous antioxidants in culture medium protect ROS-induced deterioration of oocyte quality in vitro. Although a growing body of evidence suggests the ROS and OS-mediated deterioration of oocyte quality in vitro, their downstream signalling and related mechanisms remain poorly understood. Hence, this review article summarizes the existing evidences concerning ROS and OS-mediated downstream signalling during deterioration of oocyte quality in vitro. The use of various antioxidants against ROS and OS-mediated impairment of oocyte quality in vitro has also been explored in order to increase the success rate of IVF during assisted reproductive health management.

Enhancing Escherichia coli Inactivation: Synergistic Mechanism of Ultraviolet Light and High-Voltage Electric Field

This study investigated the bactericidal effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a high-voltage electric field (HVEF), and their combination on Escherichia coli. The results indicated that UV and combined disinfection were more effective with longer exposure, leading to significant reductions in microbial activity. Specifically, the single UV disinfection alone reduced activity by 3.3 log after 5 min, while combined disinfection achieved a 4.2 log reduction. In contrast, short-term HVEF treatment did not exhibit significant bactericidal effects, only achieving a reduction of 0.17 log in 5 min. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to both UV disinfection and an HVEF was found to damage cell membranes, ultimately causing cell death, while shorter durations did not. Despite rapid cell count decreases, flow cytometry did not detect apoptotic or necrotic cells, likely due to rapid cell rupture. This study suggests that combining UV radiation and an HVEF could be a promising approach for inhibiting bacterial reproduction, with HVEF enhancing UV effects. These findings provide insights for using combined HVEF and UV disinfection in food safety and preservation.

Oxidative Stress: A Culprit in the Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the principal culprit behind chronic kidney disease (CKD), ultimately developing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and necessitating costly dialysis or kidney transplantation. The limited therapeutic efficiency among individuals with DKD is a result of our finite understanding of its pathogenesis. DKD is the result of complex interactions between various factors. Oxidative stress is a fundamental factor that can establish a link between hyperglycemia and the vascular complications frequently encountered in diabetes, particularly DKD. It is crucial to recognize the essential and integral role of oxidative stress in the development of diabetic vascular complications, particularly DKD. Hyperglycemia is the primary culprit that can trigger an upsurge in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), ultimately sparking oxidative stress. The main endogenous sources of ROS include mitochondrial ROS production, NADPH oxidases (Nox), uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), xanthine oxidase (XO), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), and lipoxygenase. Under persistent high glucose levels, immune cells, the complement system, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), protein kinase C (PKC), polyol pathway, and the hexosamine pathway are activated. Consequently, the oxidant-antioxidant balance within the body is disrupted, which triggers a series of reactions in various downstream pathways, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), transforming growth factor beta/p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (TGF-β/p38-MAPK), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling. The disease might persist even if strict glucose control is achieved, which can be attributed to epigenetic modifications. The treatment of DKD remains an unresolved issue. Therefore, reducing ROS is an intriguing therapeutic target. The clinical trials have shown that bardoxolone methyl, a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activator, blood glucose-lowering drugs, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists can effectively slow down the progression of DKD by reducing oxidative stress. Other antioxidants, including vitamins, lipoic acid, Nox inhibitors, epigenetic regulators, and complement inhibitors, present a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of DKD. In this review, we conduct a thorough assessment of both preclinical studies and current findings from clinical studies that focus on targeted interventions aimed at manipulating these pathways. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in this area and identify key areas for future exploration.

Antioxidant capacity sources of soils under different land uses

Antioxidants (AOX) in soils originate mainly from secondary plant metabolites and are pivotal in many redox processes in environment, maintaining soil quality. Still, little is known about the influence of land uses on their accumulation in soil. The aim of the paper was to determine the content of these redox-active compounds in the extracts of A horizons of abandoned fallows, arable and woodland soils. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of soils under various uses and vegetation was evaluated in different soil extracts using Folin-Ciocâlteu method. The contribution of humic acids to TAC was determined and antioxidant profiles estimated using the chromatographic GC-MS method. Forest soils exhibited the highest TAC (15.5 mg g-1) and AOX contents (4.34 mg g-1), which were positively correlated with soil organic carbon content. It was estimated that humic acids contribute to over 50% of TAC in soils. The main phenolics in woodland A horizons were isovanillic and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (p-HA), while esculetin and p-HA predominated in the abandoned fallows due to the prevalence of herbaceous vegetation. Cultivated soils were the most abundant in p-HA (56.42%). In the studied topsoils, there were considerable amounts of aliphatic organic matter, which role in redox processes should be further evaluated.

High-concentration bovine serum albumin enhances fertilization ability of cold-stored rat sperm

Cold transport of the cauda epididymides is a useful technique for shipping laboratory rat sperm. Cold transport of rat sperm avoids potential risks of microbiological infection, animal escape or death, and animal welfare issues. Previously, we reported that a cold-storage solution containing dimethyl sulfoxide and quercetin maintained the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm. However, cold-stored rat sperm exhibited a decreased fertilization rate after 24-h storage. To recover the fertility of cold-stored sperm, we focused on the effects of bovine serum albumin (BSA), a cholesterol acceptor that induces sperm capacitation. We sought to determine the optimal concentration of BSA in fertilization medium based on the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm. High concentrations of BSA (40 mg/ml) enhanced the fertilization rate of cold-stored rat sperm and maintained sperm fertility for 144 h. Embryos derived from cold-stored and BSA-treated sperm normally developed into pups after embryo transfer. In summary, high BSA concentrations enhanced the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm and prolonged the storage period to 144 h, thereby expanding the transportable region for genetically engineered rats.

Effects of Heat Stress on the Laying Performance, Egg Quality, and Physiological Response of Laying Hens

As high temperature and relative humidity (RH) are the main environmental factors causing heat stress, the temperature-humidity index (THI) serves as an indicator of heat stress in livestock animals. This study aimed to determine the effects of heat stress on the laying performance, physiological responses, egg quality, and blood profile of laying hens by subjecting them to environmental conditions with varying THI levels (68-85) for 28 days. The indicators of laying performance, such as feed intake (-30%) and egg production rate (-11%), significantly decreased in the hens exposed to severe heat stress (33 °C, 66% RH) compared to those exposed to thermoneutral conditions (21 °C, 68% RH). Moreover, severe heat stress reduced the egg yolk color, eggshell thickness and strength, and Haugh units of the eggs produced by the laying hens. Furthermore, a significant increase in serum K+ and a decrease in Na+ levels were observed in the hens subjected to severe heat stress compared with those under thermoneutral conditions. Our results indicate that heat stress alters the physiological responses and metabolism of laying hens, resulting in a lower egg quality and production rate.

The Adrenal Gland and Pancreatic Islets - A Beneficial Endocrine Alliance

Intraportal islet transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes enables restoration of glucose-regulated insulin secretion. However, several factors hamper a widespread application and long-term success: chronic hypoxia, an inappropriate microenvironment and suppression of regenerative and proliferative potential by high local levels of immunosuppressive agents. Therefore, the identification of alternative and superior transplant sites is of major scientific and clinical interest. Here, we aim to evaluate the adrenal as an alternative transplantation site. The adrenal features a particular microenvironment with extensive vascularization, anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. To validate this novel transplantation site, an in vitro co-culture system of adrenal cells and pancreatic islets was established and viability, islet survival, functional potency and antioxidative defense capacity were evaluated. For in vivo validation, an immune-deficient diabetic mouse model for intra-adrenal islet transplantation was applied. The functional capacity of intra-adrenally grafted islets to reverse diabetes was compared to a standard islet transplant model and measures of engraftment such as vascular integration were evaluated. The presence of adrenal cells positively impacted on cell metabolism and oxidative stress. Following transplantation, we could demonstrate enhanced islet function in comparison to standard models with improved engraftment and superior re-vascularization. This experimental approach allows for novel insights into the interaction of endocrine systems and may open up novel strategies for islet transplantation augmented through the bystander effect of other endocrine cells or the active factors secreted by adrenal cells modulating the microenvironment.

Relationship between inflammation and oxidative stress and its effect on multiple sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

This paper highlights the relationship of inflammation and oxidative stress as damage mechanisms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), considered an inflammatory and autoimmune disease.

DEVELOPMENT

The oxidative stress concept has been defined by an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in favor of the oxidants. There is necessary to do physiological functions, like the respiration chain, but in certain conditions, the production of reactive species overpassed the antioxidant systems, which could cause tissue damage. On the other hand, it is well established that inflammation is a complex reaction in the vascularized connective tissue in response to diverse stimuli. However, an unregulated prolonged inflammatory process also can induce tissue damage.

CONCLUSION

Both inflammation and oxidative stress are interrelated since one could promote the other, leading to a toxic feedback system, which contributes to the inflammatory and demyelination process in MS.

Senolytics prevent age-associated changes in female mice brain

PURPOSE

Considering that the combination of dasatinib and quercetin (D + Q) demonstrated a neuroprotective action, as well as that females experience a decline in hormonal levels during aging and this is linked to increased susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease, in this study we evaluated the effect of D + Q on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers and on acetylcholinesterase and Na+, K+-ATPase activities in brain of female mice.

METHODS

Female C57BL/6 mice were divided in Control and D (5 mg/kg) + Q (50 mg/kg) treated. Treatment was administered via gavage for three consecutive days every two weeks starting at 30 days of age. The animals were euthanized at 6 months of age and at 14 months of age.

RESULTS

Results indicate an increase in reactive species (RS), thiol content and lipid peroxidation followed by a reduction in nitrite levels and superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activity in the brain of control animals with age. D+Q protected against age-associated increase in RS and catalase activity reduction. Acetylcholinesterase activity was increased, while Na+, K+-ATPase activity was reduced at 14 months of age and D+Q prevented this reduction.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that D+Q can protect against age-associated neurochemical alterations in the female brain.

Biofragmentation of Polystyrene Microplastics: A Silent Process Performed by Chironomus sancticaroli Larvae

Polystyrene (PS) is one of the main synthetic polymers produced around the world, and it is present in the composition of a wide variety of single-use objects. When released into the environment, these materials are degraded by environmental factors, resulting in microplastics. We investigated the ability of Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) to promote the fragmentation of PS microspheres (24.5 ± 2.9 μm) and the toxic effects associated with exposure to this polymer. C. sancticaroli larvae were exposed to 3 different concentrations of PS (67.5, 135, and 270 particles g-1 of dry sediment) for 144 h. Significant lethality was observed only at the highest concentration. A significant reduction in PS particle size as well as evidence of deterioration on the surface of the spheres, such as grooves and cracks, was observed. In addition, changes in oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, MDA, and GST) were also observed. This is the first study to report the ability of Chironomus sp. to promote the biofragmentation of microplastics. The information obtained demonstrates that the macroinvertebrate community can play a key role in the degradation of plastic particles present in the sediment of freshwater environments and can also be threatened by such particle pollution.

Phytochemical analysis of carotenoid profile in Mentha piperita and Artemisia vulgaris: cytotoxicity in tumoral cells and evaluation of plasmid DNA cleavage

Several medicinal plants have been administered to cancer patients attributed to their anticarcinogenic and chemoprotective properties, in addition to lower toxicity compared to traditional therapies. The aim was to investigate the antioxidant properties and carotenoid composition of aqueous extracts of Mentha piperita or Artemisia vulgaris which were previously found to exert beneficial effects on human health through diet. aqueous extracts exhibited potent antioxidant activity. A diversity of carotenoids was identified in these extracts using HPLC-PDA-MS/MS. Both extracts contained predominantly all-trans-lutein as the main component within this class. In order to investigate antioxidant properties, the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) techniques were used. The (3-4,5 dimethylthiazol-2, 5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) (MTT) and Crystal Violet assays assessed cellular cytotoxicity. Assessments of presence of reactive species were carried out following exposure of oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line (SCC-4) to various aqueous extracts of M piperita or A vulgaris utilizing dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) and nitric oxide (NO) assays. Exposure to these extracts induced severe cytotoxic effects, which led to investigation of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying this observed effect. Data demonstrated that both solutions induced oxidative stress and DNA damage, especially at higher concentrations using agarose gel subjected to electrophoresis. It is known that exposure to excess amounts of antioxidants results in a prooxidant effect which is beneficial in cancer therapy. Further, the extracts were found to reduce viability of SCC-4 in culture, indicating that this antitumoral activity may be of therapeutic importance and requires further study.

Development and validation of a minimally invasive protocol for assessing oxidative stress markers in exfoliated oral cells

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop and validate a minimally invasive protocol for characterizing oxidative stress markers in exfoliated oral cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Exfoliated oral cells were collected from healthy volunteers. The protocol included the utilization of specific fluorescent probes to measure intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Cells from each volunteer were divided into the positive and negative control groups, which were, respectively, exposed or not to hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) aiming to induce the oxidative stress. Measurements of cell fluorescence were performed using a microscope equipped with epifluorescence.

RESULTS

The results showed that cells exposed to H2 O2 exhibited significantly higher intracellular expression of ROS compared to unexposed cells (positive control: 3851.25 ± 1227.0 vs, negative control: 1106.07 ± 249.6; p = 0.0338). On the contrary, cells exposed to H2 O2 displayed decreased expression of ΔΨm (p = 0.0226) and GSH (p = 0.0289) when compared to the negative control group (ΔΨm positive control: 14634.39 ± 1529.0 vs, negative control: 18897.60 ± 2338.0; and GSH positive control: 9011.08 ± 1900.0 vs, negative control: 15901.79 ± 2745.0).

CONCLUSIONS

The developed protocol proved to be effective in detecting and quantifying oxidative stress biomarkers, such as ROS, ΔΨm and GSH, in exfoliated oral cells. This minimally invasive approach offers a promising method to assess oxidative stress expression and may be clinically relevant in the evaluation of oral diseases associated with oxidative stress.

An organic extract from ascidian Ciona robusta induces cytotoxic autophagy in human malignant cell lines

The last decades have seen an increase in the isolation and characterization of anticancer compounds derived from marine organisms, especially invertebrates, and their use in clinical trials. In this regard, ascidians, which are included in the subphylum Tunicata, represent successful examples with two drugs, Aplidine© and Yondelis© that reached the market as orphan drugs against several malignancies. Here, we report that an organic extract prepared from homogenized tissues of the Mediterranean ascidian Ciona robusta inhibited cell proliferation in HT-29, HepG2, and U2OS human cells with the former being the most sensitive to the extract (EC50 = 250 μg/mL). We demonstrated that the ascidian organic extract was not cytotoxic on HT-29 cells that were induced to differentiate with sodium butyrate, suggesting a preference for the mixture for the malignant phenotype. Finally, we report that cell death induced by the organic extract was mediated by the activation of a process of cytotoxic autophagy as a result of the increased expression of the LC3-II marker and number of autophagic vacuoles, which almost doubled in the treated HT-29 cells. In summary, although the detailed chemical composition of the Ciona robusta extract is still undetermined, our data suggest the presence of bioactive compounds possessing anticancer activity.

Thermoregulatory response in juvenile Hippocampus erectus: Effect of magnitude and rate of thermal increase on metabolism and antioxidative defence

Behavioural, physiological and biochemical mechanisms constitute the adaptive capacities that allow marine ectotherms to explore the environment beyond their thermal optimal. Limitations to the efficiency of these mechanisms define the transition from moderate to severe thermal stress, and serve to characterise the thermoregulatory response in the zone of thermal tolerance. We selected a tropical population of Hippocampus erectus to describe the timing of the physiological and biochemical mechanisms in response to the following increments in water temperature: (i) 4°C abrupt (26-30°C in <5 min); (ii) 7°C abrupt (26-33°C); (iii) 4°C gradual (1°C every 3 h) and (iv) 7°C gradual (1.5°C every 3 h). The routine metabolic rate (Rrout) of juvenile H. erectus was measured immediately before and after 0.5, 12 and 28 h of being exposed to each thermal treatment. Samples of muscle and abdominal organs were taken to quantify indicators of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism and antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress at each moment throughout exposure. Results showed a full thermoregulatory response within 0.5 h: Rrout increased in direct correspondence with both the magnitude and rate of thermal increase; peroxidised lipids rapidly accumulated before the antioxidant defence was activated and early lactate concentrations suggested an immediate, yet temporary, reduction in aerobic scope. After 12 h, Rrout had decreased in sea horses exposed to 30°C, but not to 33°C, where Rrout continued high until the end of trials. Within 28 h of thermal exposure, all metabolite and antioxidant defence indicators had been restored to control levels (26°C). These findings testify to the outstanding thermal plasticity of H. erectus and explain their adjustment to rapid fluctuations in ambient temperature. Such features, however, do not protect this tropical population from the deleterious effects of chronic exposure to temperatures that have been predicted for the future.

Phosphorylation Dynamics in a flg22-Induced, G Protein-Dependent Network Reveals the AtRGS1 Phosphatase

The microbe-associated molecular pattern flg22 is recognized in a flagellin-sensitive 2-dependent manner in root tip cells. Here, we show a rapid and massive change in protein abundance and phosphorylation state of the Arabidopsis root cell proteome in WT and a mutant deficient in heterotrimeric G-protein-coupled signaling. flg22-induced changes fall on proteins comprising a subset of this proteome, the heterotrimeric G protein interactome, and on highly-populated hubs of the immunity network. Approximately 95% of the phosphorylation changes in the heterotrimeric G-protein interactome depend, at least partially, on a functional G protein complex. One member of this interactome is ATBα, a substrate-recognition subunit of a protein phosphatase 2A complex and an interactor to Arabidopsis thaliana Regulator of G Signaling 1 protein (AtRGS1), a flg22-phosphorylated, 7-transmembrane spanning modulator of the nucleotide-binding state of the core G-protein complex. A null mutation of ATBα strongly increases basal endocytosis of AtRGS1. AtRGS1 steady-state protein level is lower in the atbα mutant in a proteasome-dependent manner. We propose that phosphorylation-dependent endocytosis of AtRGS1 is part of the mechanism to degrade AtRGS1, thus sustaining activation of the heterotrimeric G protein complex required for the regulation of system dynamics in innate immunity. The PP2A(ATBα) complex is a critical regulator of this signaling pathway.

The effect of graphene and graphene oxide induced reactive oxygen species on polycaprolactone scaffolds for bone cancer applications

Bone cancer remains a critical healthcare problem. Among current clinical treatments, tumour resection is the most common strategy. It is usually effective but may present several limitations such as multiple operations, long hospital time, and the potential recurrence caused by the incomplete removal of cancer cells. To address these limitations, three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds fabricated through additive manufacturing have been researched for both bone cancer treatment and post-treatment rehabilitation. Polycaprolactone (PCL)-based scaffolds play an important role in bone regeneration, serving as a physical substrate to fill the defect site, recruiting cells, and promoting cell proliferation and differentiation, ultimately leading to the regeneration of the bone tissue without multiple surgical applications. Multiple advanced materials have been incorporated during the fabrication process to improve certain functions and/or modulate biological performances. Graphene-based nanomaterials, particularly graphene (G) and graphene oxide (GO), have been investigated both in vitro and in vivo, significantly improving the scaffold's physical, chemical, and biological properties, which strongly depend on the material type and concentration. A unique targeted inhibition effect on cancer cells was also discovered. However, limited research has been conducted on utilising graphene-based nanomaterials for both bone regeneration and bone cancer treatment, and there is no systematic study into the material- and dose-dependent effects, as well as the working mechanism on 3D scaffolds to realise these functions. This paper addresses these limitations by designing and fabricating PCL-based scaffolds containing different concentrations of G and GO and assessing their biological behaviour correlating it to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) release level. Results suggest that the ROS release from the scaffolds is a dominant mechanism that affects the biological behaviour of the scaffolds. ROS release also contributes to the inhibition effect on bone cancer due to healthy cells and cancer cells responding differently to ROS, and the osteogenesis results also present a certain correlation with ROS. These observations revealed a new route for realising bone cancer treatment and subsequent new bone regeneration, using a single dual-functional 3D scaffold.

The Anti-Inflammatory Potential of an Ethanolic Extract from Sarcopoterium spinosum Fruits for Protection and/or Counteraction against Oxidative Stress in Dysfunctional Endothelial Cells

Plants and plant extracts are a relevant source of bioactive compounds widely employed as functional foods. In the Mediterranean area, the shrub Sarcopoterium spinosum is traditionally used as an herbal medicine for weight loss and a diabetes treatment. Inflammation is a protective mechanism involved in the development of many pathological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases. The present study aimed to investigate in vitro the antioxidant and cytoprotective properties of an ethanolic extract from S. spinosum fruits (SEE) in a cellular model of endothelium dysfunction. Corilagin and quercetin are two polyphenols abundant in SEE and were tested for comparison. The exposure of HECV cells for 24 h to 30 µM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) lead to an oxidative stress condition. When HECV cells were treated with 10 µg/mL of SEE or single compounds after or before the oxidative insult, the results showed their ability to (i) decrease the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production quantified using fluorometric analysis and the lipid peroxidation measured with a spectrophotometric assay; (ii) rescue both the glutathione reduced to oxidized (GSH/GSSG) ratio and nitric oxide impair and the protein denaturation; and (iii) accelerate the wound repair measured using a T-scratch assay. Taken together, our findings indicate that the ethanolic extract from S. spinosum fruits could be a potential candidate for nutraceutical application.

A ratiometric fluorescent probe for imaging the fluctuation of HOBr during endoplasmic reticulum stress

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is closely associated with cell apoptosis, autophagy, DNA damage, metabolism, and migration. When ER stress occurs, a large number of reactive oxygen species, including hypobromous acid (HOBr), are generated. The degree of ER stress can be understood by accurately detecting the HOBr concentration in the ER. Unfortunately, no ER-targetable probes for detecting HOBr have been reported to date. To solve this problem, we developed a naphthalimide-based fluorescent probe (ER-NABr) for imaging HOBr in the ER. Upon reaction with HOBr, a red shift in the fluorescence spectrum occurs due to the difference in the molecular conjugation between the original ER-NABr and the reaction product. ER-NABr showed a fast response (within 30 s) and high selectivity towards HOBr, with a ratiometric quantitative response (5-40 μM) and high sensitivity (138 nM). With its excellent biocompatibility and remarkable ER-targetable ability, ER-NABr was successfully utilized to ratiometrically image intracellular HOBr, particularly during ER stress, which is beneficial for revealing the role of HOBr in ER-associated diseases.

Using 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxiguanosine (8-OHdG) as a Reliable Biomarker for Assessing Periodontal Disease Associated with Diabetes

In recent years, research has shown that oxidative stress plays a significant role in chronic inflammatory conditions. The alteration of the oxidant/antioxidant balance leads to the appearance of free radicals, important molecules involved in both diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease. Diabetes is considered to be one of the major risk factors of periodontal disease and the inflammation characterizing this condition is associated with oxidative stress, implicitly resulting in oxidative damage to DNA. 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) is the most common stable product of oxidative DNA damage caused by reactive oxygen species, and its levels have been reported to increase in body fluids and tissues during inflammatory conditions. 8-OHdG emerges as a pivotal biomarker for assessing oxidative DNA damage, demonstrating its relevance across diverse health conditions, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancers, inflammatory conditions, and periodontal disease. Continued research in this field is crucial for developing more precise treatments and understanding the detailed link between oxidative stress and the progression of periodontitis. The use of the 8-OHdG biomarker in assessing and managing chronic periodontitis is an area of increased interest in dental research, with the potential to provide crucial information for diagnosis and treatment.

An Overview of Reactive Oxygen Species Damage Occurring during In Vitro Bovine Oocyte and Embryo Development and the Efficacy of Antioxidant Use to Limit These Adverse Effects

The in vitro production (IVP) of bovine embryos has gained popularity worldwide and in recent years and its use for producing embryos from genetically elite heifers and cows has surpassed the use of conventional superovulation-based embryo production schemes. There are, however, several issues with the IVP of embryos that remain unresolved. One limitation of special concern is the low efficiency of the IVP of embryos. Exposure to reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one reason why the production of embryos with IVP is diminished. These highly reactive molecules are generated in small amounts through normal cellular metabolism, but their abundances increase in embryo culture because of oocyte and embryo exposure to temperature fluctuations, light exposure, pH changes, atmospheric oxygen tension, suboptimal culture media formulations, and cryopreservation. When uncontrolled, ROS produce detrimental effects on the structure and function of genomic and mitochondrial DNA, alter DNA methylation, increase lipid membrane damage, and modify protein activity. Several intrinsic enzymatic pathways control ROS abundance and damage, and antioxidants react with and reduce the reactive potential of ROS. This review will focus on exploring the efficiency of supplementing several of these antioxidant molecules on oocyte maturation, sperm viability, fertilization, and embryo culture.

Mitochondria Play Essential Roles in Intracellular Protection against Oxidative Stress-Which Molecules among the ROS Generated in the Mitochondria Can Escape the Mitochondria and Contribute to Signal Activation in Cytosol?

Questions about which reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) can escape from the mitochondria and activate signals must be addressed. In this study, two parameters, the calculated dipole moment (debye, D) and permeability coefficient (Pm) (cm s-1), are listed for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radical (•OH), superoxide (O2•-), hydroperoxyl radical (HO2•), nitric oxide (•NO), nitrogen dioxide (•NO2), peroxynitrite (ONOO-), and peroxynitrous acid (ONOOH) in comparison to those for water (H2O). O2•- is generated from the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), and several other ROS and RNS can be generated subsequently. The candidates which pass through the mitochondrial membrane include ROS with a small number of dipoles, i.e., H2O2, HO2•, ONOOH, •OH, and •NO. The results show that the dipole moment of •NO2 is 0.35 D, indicating permeability; however, •NO2 can be eliminated quickly. The dipole moments of •OH (1.67 D) and ONOOH (1.77 D) indicate that they might be permeable. This study also suggests that the mitochondria play a central role in protecting against further oxidative stress in cells. The amounts, the long half-life, the diffusion distance, the Pm, the one-electron reduction potential, the pKa, and the rate constants for the reaction with ascorbate and glutathione are listed for various ROS/RNS, •OH, singlet oxygen (1O2), H2O2, O2•-, HO2•, •NO, •NO2, ONOO-, and ONOOH, and compared with those for H2O and oxygen (O2). Molecules with negative electrical charges cannot directly diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer of the mitochondrial membranes. Short-lived molecules, such as •OH, would be difficult to contribute to intracellular signaling. Finally, HO2• and ONOOH were selected as candidates for the ROS/RNS that pass through the mitochondrial membrane.

5-HT3 antagonist, tropisetron, ameliorates age-related renal injury induced by D-galactose in male mice: Up-regulation of sirtuin 1

Objectives

The kidney ages faster than other organs due to changes in energy metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. This study looked into the anti-aging effect of tropisetron.

Materials and Methods

D-galactose was administrated subcutaneously in a mouse model for eight weeks in order to induce renal aging. Three separate intraperitoneal doses of tropisetron (1, 3, and 5 mg/kg body weight) were given at the same time. We assessed markers of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Via Real-Time PCR, the expressions of genes linked to aging (SIRT1) and apoptosis (Bax and Bcl-2) were ascertained. In addition, an assessment of histopathological changes, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine concentrations was done.

Results

In kidney tissue, tropisetron reduces mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, which are caused by D-galactose-induced overproduction of inflammatory mediators. Additionally, tropisetron demonstrated antiapoptotic activity in renal tissue and augmented the decrease in SIRT1 gene expression associated with D-galactose administration. Besides, tropisetron significantly improved the histological alterations in the renal tissues of aged mice and effectively decreased the elevated levels of creatinine and also blood urea nitrogen.

Conclusion

The results provided additional insight into the effect of tropisetron on renal aging and the underlying mechanisms, particularly through its ability to modulate SIRT1 signaling.

Polyphenol-enriched extracts of Sarcopoterium spinosum fruits for counteracting lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in an in vitro model of hepatic steatosis

Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach is a Rosaceae shrub employed in the folk medicine in the Eastern Mediterranean basin. The previous few studies have focused on the S. spinosum roots, while the fruits have been poorly investigated. The present study aims to assess the biological properties of S. spinosum fruits collected in Lebanon and subjected to ethanolic, water or boiling water extraction. The extracts were compared for the phenol and flavonoid contents, and for the in vitro radical scavenging ability. The ethanolic extract (SEE) was selected and characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) showing a phenolome rich in tannins (ellagitannins), flavonoids (quercetin derivatives), and triterpenes. The biological activity of SEE was tested on a cellular model of moderate steatosis consisting of lipid-loaded hepatic cells treated with increasing concentrations of SEE (1-25 μg/mL), or with corilagin or quercetin as comparison. In steatotic hepatocytes the SEE was able (i) to ameliorate the hepatosteatosis; (ii) to counteract the excess ROS and lipid peroxidation; (iii) to restore the impaired catalase activity. The results indicate that the ethanolic extract from S. spinosum fruits is endowed with relevant antisteatotic and antioxidant activities and might find application as nutraceutical product.

Integration of machine learning in 3D-QSAR CoMSIA models for the identification of lipid antioxidant peptides

The comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) method is a widely used 3D-quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) approach in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug design. However, relying solely on the Partial Least Square algorithm to build models using numerous CoMSIA indices has, in some cases, led to statistically underperforming models. This issue has also affected 3D-CoMSIA models constructed for the ferric thiocyanate (FTC) dataset from linoleic antioxidant measurements. In this study, a novel modeling routine has been developed incorporating various machine learning (ML) techniques to explore different options for feature selection, model fitting, and tuning algorithms with the ultimate goal of arriving at optimal 3D-CoMSIA models with high predictivity for the FTC activity. Recursive Feature Selection and SelectFromModel techniques were applied for feature selection, resulting in a significant improvement in model fitting and predictivity (R2, RCV2, and R2_test) of 24 estimators. However, these selection methods did not fully address the problem of overfitting and, in some instances, even exacerbated it. On the other hand, hyperparameter tuning for tree-based models resulted in dissimilar levels of model generalization for four tree-based models. GB-RFE coupled with GBR (hyperparameters: learning_rate = 0.01, max_depth = 2, n_estimators = 500, subsample = 0.5) was the only combination that effectively mitigated overfitting and demonstrated superior performance (RCV2 of 0.690, R2_test of 0.759, and R2 of 0.872) compared to the best linear model, PLS (with RCV2 of 0.653, R2_test of 0.575, and R2 of 0.755). Therefore, it was subsequently utilized to screen potential antioxidants among a range of Tryptophyllin L tripeptide fragments, leading to the synthesis and testing of three peptides: F-P-5Htp, F-P-W, and P-5Htp-L. These peptides exhibited promising activity levels, with FTC values of 4.2 ± 0.12, 4.4 ± 0.11, and 1.72 ± 0.15, respectively.

The benefit of using in vitro bioassays to screen agricultural samples for oxidative stress: South Africa's case

Applied pesticides end up in non-target environments as complex mixtures. When bioavailable, these chemicals pose a threat to living organisms and can induce oxidative stress (OS). In this article, attention is paid to OS and the physiological role of the antioxidant defense system. South African and international literature was reviewed to provide extensive evidence of pesticide-induced OS in non-target organisms, in vivo and in vitro. Although in vitro approaches are used internationally, South African studies have only used in vivo methods. Considering ethical implications, the authors support the use of in vitro bioassays to screen environmental matrices for their OS potential. Since OS responses are initiated and measurable at lower cellular concentrations compared to other toxicity endpoints, in vitro OS bioassays could be used as an early warning sign for the presence of chemical mixtures in non-target environments. Areas of concern in the country could be identified and prioritized without using animal models. The authors conclude that it will be worthwhile for South Africa to include in vitro OS bioassays as part of a battery of tests to screen environmental matrices for biological effects. This will facilitate the development and implementation of biomonitoring programs to safeguard the South African environment.

Phytochemical characterization and toxicological activity attributed to the acetonic extract of South American Vassobia breviflora

The particular plant species found in southern Brazil, Vassobia breviflora (Solanaceae) has only a few apparent studies examining its biological effect. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the activity of the acetone extract fraction derived from V. breviflora. Four compounds were identified by ESI-qTOF-MS: eucalrobusone R, aplanoic acid B, pheophorbide A, and pheophytin A. In addition, 5 compounds were identified by HPLC-PDA-MS/MS: all-trans-lutein, 15-cis-lutein, all-trans-β-carotene, 5,8-epoxy-β-carotene, and cis-β-carotene. Cell lines A549 (lung cancer), A375 (melanoma cancer) and HeLa (cervical cancer) were incubated with different concentrations of each studied extract using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and 2'-7'dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) assays. The acetonic extract exhibited cytotoxic activity at a concentration of 0.03 mg/ml in the HeLa strain and 0.1 mg/ml in the others. In addition to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Antibacterial activity was assessed utilizing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) in 9 ATCCs strains and 7 clinical isolates, as well as determination of biofilm production. Data demonstrated that MIC and MBC were approximately 256 mg/ml in most of the strains tested and antibiofilm effect at S. aureus, S. epidermidis, A. baumannii, and E. faecalis, concentrations below the MIC. Genotoxic activity on plasmid DNA did not produce significant elevated levels in breaks in the isolated genetic material.

Effect of nutraceutical supplementation on semen quality in stallions

BACKGROUND

The use of reproductive biotechnologies in equine practice has shown that some stallions are subfertile, so ways to improve fertility have been sought.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nutraceutical supplementation on improving semen quality in Quarter Horse stallions.

METHODS

Semen from six Quarter Horse stallions was assessed for 4 months every 20 days using the computer-assisted semen analysis system. They were evaluated for 60 days before supplementation; then, the same stallions were re-evaluated for 60 days with nutraceutical supplementation (30 g/day).

RESULTS

Volume showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) with nutraceuticals. Sperm concentration (10x6 ) was significantly higher with supplementation (339.4 ± 17.5 sperm/mL) than without supplementation (224.6 ± 19.9). Sperm abnormalities (%) were significantly (p < 0.05) lower with supplementation (14.3 ± 0.6) than without supplementation (19.1 ± 0.4). Sperm kinematic parameters, total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), rectilinear velocity (VSL), the velocity of the trajectory (VAP) and curvilinear velocity (VCL), were significantly better with supplementation (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results, it is concluded that nutraceutical supplementation improved semen parameters in Quarter Horse stallions.

50 shades of oxidative stress: A state-specific cysteine redox pattern hypothesis

Oxidative stress is biochemically complex. Like primary colours, specific reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant inputs can be mixed to create unique "shades" of oxidative stress. Even a minimal redox module comprised of just 12 (ROS & antioxidant) inputs and 3 outputs (oxidative damage, cysteine-dependent redox-regulation, or both) yields over half a million "shades" of oxidative stress. The present paper proposes the novel hypothesis that: state-specific shades of oxidative stress, such as a discrete disease, are associated with distinct tell-tale cysteine oxidation patterns. The patterns are encoded by many parameters, from the identity of the oxidised proteins, the cysteine oxidation type, and magnitude. The hypothesis is conceptually grounded in distinct ROS and antioxidant inputs coalescing to produce unique cysteine oxidation outputs. And considers the potential biological significance of the holistic cysteine oxidation outputs. The literature supports the existence of state-specific cysteine oxidation patterns. Measuring and manipulating these patterns offer promising avenues for advancing oxidative stress research. The pattern inspired hypothesis provides a framework for understanding the complex biochemical nature of state-specific oxidative stress.

Microfluidic single-cell measurements of oxidative stress as a function of cell cycle position

Single-cell measurements routinely demonstrate high levels of variation between cells, but fewer studies provide insight into the analytical and biological sources of this variation. This is particularly true of chemical cytometry, in which individual cells are lysed and their contents separated, compared to more established single-cell measurements of the genome and transcriptome. To characterize population-level variation and its sources, we analyzed oxidative stress levels in 1278 individual Dictyostelium discoideum cells as a function of exogenous stress level and cell cycle position. Cells were exposed to varying levels of oxidative stress via singlet oxygen generation using the photosensitizer Rose Bengal. Single-cell data reproduced the dose-response observed in ensemble measurements by CE-LIF, superimposed with high levels of heterogeneity. Through experiments and data analysis, we explored possible biological sources of this heterogeneity. No trend was observed between population variation and oxidative stress level, but cell cycle position was a major contributor to heterogeneity in oxidative stress. Cells synchronized to the same stage of cell division were less heterogeneous than unsynchronized cells (RSD of 37-51% vs 93%), and mitotic cells had higher levels of reactive oxygen species than interphase cells. While past research has proposed changes in cell size during the cell cycle as a source of biological noise, the measurements presented here use an internal standard to normalize for effects of cell volume, suggesting a more complex contribution of cell cycle to heterogeneity of oxidative stress.

Gpr75 knockout mice display age-dependent cone photoreceptor cell loss

GPR75 is an orphan G protein-coupled receptor for which there is currently limited information and its function in physiology and disease is only recently beginning to emerge. This orphan receptor is expressed in the retina but its function in the eye is unknown. The earliest studies on GPR75 were conducted in the retina, where the receptor was first identified and cloned and mutations in the receptor were identified as a possible contributor to retinal degenerative disease. Despite these sporadic reports, the function of GPR75 in the retina and in retinal disease has yet to be explored. To assess whether GPR75 has a functional role in the retina, the retina of Gpr75 knockout mice was characterized. Knockout mice displayed a mild progressive retinal degeneration, which was accompanied by oxidative stress. The degeneration was because of the loss of both M-cone and S-cone photoreceptor cells. Housing mice under constant dark conditions reduced oxidative stress but did not prevent cone photoreceptor cell loss, indicating that oxidative stress is not a primary cause of the observed retinal degeneration. Studies here demonstrate an important role for GPR75 in maintaining the health of cone photoreceptor cells and that Gpr75 knockout mice can be used as a model to study cone photoreceptor cell loss.

Rapid identification of bacteria by the pattern of redox reactions rate using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate

Bacterial infection is a life-threatening situation, and its rapid diagnosis is essential for treatment. Apart from medical applications, rapid identification of bacteria is vital in the food industry or the public health system. There are various bacterial identification techniques, including molecular-based methods, immunological approaches, and biosensor-based procedures. The most commonly used methods are culture-based methods, which are time-consuming. The objective of this study is to find a fingerprint of bacteria to identify them. Three strains of bacteria were selected, and seven different concentrations of each bacterium were prepared. The bacteria were then treated with two different molar concentrations of the fluorescent fluorophore, dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate for 30 minutes. Then, using the fluorescence mode of a multimode reader, the fluorescence emission of each bacterium is scanned twice during 60 minutes. Plotting the difference between two scans versus the bacteria concentration results in a unique fluorescence pattern for each bacterium. Observation of the redox state of bacteria, during 90 minutes, results in a fluorescence pattern that is clearly a fingerprint of different bacteria. This pattern is independent of fluorophore concentration. Mean Squares Errors (MSE) between the fluorescence patterns of similar bacteria is less than that of different bacteria, which shows the method can properly identify the bacteria. In this study, a new label-free method is developed to detect and identify different species of bacteria by measuring the redox activity and using the fluorescence fluorophore, dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. This robust and low-cost method can properly identify the bacteria, uses only one excitation and emission wavelength, and can be simply implemented with current multimode plate readers.

Effects of clopidogrel bisulfate on B16-F10 cells and tumor development in a murine model of melanoma

Metastatic melanoma is a very aggressive skin cancer. Platelets are constituents of the tumor microenvironment and, when activated, contribute to cancer progression, especially metastasis and inflammation. P2Y12 is an adenosine diphosphate receptor that triggers platelet activation. Inhibition of P2Y12 by clopidogrel bisulfate (CB) decreases platelet activation, which is also controlled by the extracellular concentration and the metabolism of purines by purinergic enzymes. We evaluated the effects of CB on the viability and proliferation of cultured B16-F10 cells. We also used a metastatic melanoma model with C57BL-6 mice to evaluate cancer development and purine metabolism modulation in platelets. B16-F10 cells were administered intraperitoneally to the mice. Two days later, the animals underwent a 12-day treatment with CB (30 mg/kg by gavage). We have found that CB reduced cell viability and proliferation in B16-F10 culture in 72 h at concentrations above 30 µm. In vivo, CB decreased tumor nodule counts and lactate dehydrogenase levels and increased platelet purine metabolism. Our results showed that CB has significant effects on melanoma progression.

Effect of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion on Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities in Cherry Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme)

We investigated the impact of simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the levels of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidant capacity in cherry tomatoes. The initial total polyphenol content of fresh tomatoes was 220.51 μg GAE/g, which decreased to 203.24 μg GAE/g after 120 min of stomach treatment and further decreased to 138.23 μg GAE/g after 120 min of small intestine treatment. Similarly, the initial total flavonoid content in fresh tomatoes was 43.28 μg QE/g, but after 120 min of small intestine digestion, it decreased by approximately 50.72% to 21.33 μg QE/g. Lycopene, lutein, and β-carotene also experienced a decrease of 69.71∼78.38% during the digestion process compared to fresh tomatoes. The antioxidant activity exhibited a reduction of 34.95∼37.67% compared to fresh tomatoes after digestion in the stomach and intestines. The bioactive compounds present in tomatoes undergo decomposition and conversion into other substances during digestion, and these degradation products are believed to inhibit the growth of SK-Hep1 human hepatoma cells while enhancing antioxidant activity within the intracellular environment.

Oxidative stress in rat brain during experimental status epilepticus: effect of antioxidants

Antioxidants have been proposed as a treatment for diseases of the central nervous system. However, few studies actually studied their effects in the brain. To test central actions of antioxidants, we used the lithium-pilocarpine (Li-Pilo) model of status epilepticus (SE) in the rat in which seizures are accompanied by significant oxidative stress. We used in vivo microdialysis to determine isoprostane levels during SE in real time and brain homogenates for other measures of oxidative stress. Six different antioxidants were tested in acute and preventive experiments (vitamin C, vitamin E, ebselen, resveratrol, n-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone and coenzyme Q10). None of the antioxidants had an effect when given acutely during SE. In contrast, when antioxidants were given for 3 days prior to seizure induction, vitamins C and E reduced isoprostane formation by 58% and 65%, respectively. Pretreatment with the other antioxidants was ineffective. In brain homogenates prepared after 90 min of seizures, SE decreased the ratio of reduced vs. oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG ratio) from 60.8 to 7.50 and caused a twofold increase of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels and protein carbonyls. Pretreatment with vitamin C or vitamin E mitigated these effects and increased the GSH/GSSG ratio to 23.9 and 28.3, respectively. Again, the other antioxidants were not effective. We conclude that preventive treatment with vitamin C or vitamin E ameliorates seizure-induced oxidative damage in the brain. Several well-studied antioxidants were inactive, possibly due to limited brain permeability or a lack of chain-breaking antioxidant activity in hydrophilic compounds.

Exploring the Antioxidant Potential of Talisia esculenta Using In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches

Medicinal plants, such as Talisia esculenta, are rich in antioxidant biomolecules, which are used in the treatment and prevention of many diseases. The antioxidant potential of T. esculenta extracts obtained from leaves and fruit peels was investigated using biochemical and 3T3 cell line assays as well as in vivo assays using an organism model Tenebrio molitor. Four extracts were tested: hydroethanolic extracts from leaves (HF) and from fruit peels (HC), and infusion extracts from leaves (IF) and from fruit peels (IC). The biochemical assays demonstrated an antioxidant capacity verified by TAC, reducing power, DPPH, and copper chelating assays. None of the extracts exhibited cytotoxicity against 3T3 cells, instead offering a protection against CuSO4-induced oxidative stress. The antioxidant activity observed in the extracts, including their role as free radical scavengers, copper chelators, and stress protectors, was further confirmed by T. molitor assays. The CLAE-DAD analysis detected phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, rutin, and quercitrin, as the main constituents of the samples. This study highlights that leaf and fruit peels extracts of T. esculenta could be effective protectors against ROS and copper-induced stress in cellular and invertebrate models, and they should be considered as coadjutants in the treatment and prevention of diseases related to oxidative stress and for the development of natural nutraceutical products.

Hydroxytyrosol-Donepezil Hybrids Play a Protective Role in an In Vitro Induced Alzheimer's Disease Model and in Neuronal Differentiated Human SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative pathology among progressive dementias, and it is characterized by the accumulation in the brain of extracellular aggregates of beta-amyloid proteins and neurofibrillary intracellular tangles consisting of τ-hyperphosphorylated proteins. Under normal conditions, beta-amyloid peptides exert important trophic and antioxidant roles, while their massive presence leads to a cascade of events culminating in the onset of AD. The fibrils of beta-amyloid proteins are formed by the process of fibrillogenesis that, starting from individual monomers of beta-amyloid, can generate polymers of this protein, constituting the hypothesis of the "amyloid cascade". To date, due to the lack of pharmacological treatment for AD without toxic side effects, chemical research is directed towards the realization of hybrid compounds that can act as an adjuvant in the treatment of this neurodegenerative pathology. The hybrid compounds used in this work include moieties of a hydroxytyrosol, a nitrohydroxytyrosol, a tyrosol, and a homovanillyl alcohol bound to the N-benzylpiperidine moiety of donepezil, the main drug used in AD. Previous experiments have shown different properties of these hybrids, including low toxicity and antioxidant and chelating activities. The purpose of this work was to test the effects of hybrid compounds mixed with Aβ1-40 to induce fibrillogenesis and mimic AD pathogenesis. This condition has been studied both in test tubes and by an in vitro model of neuronal differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. The results obtained from test tube experiments showed that some hybrids inhibit the activity of the enzymes AChE, BuChE, and BACE-1. Cell experiments suggested that hybrids could inhibit fibrillogenesis, negatively modulating caspase-3. They were also shown to exert antioxidant effects, and the acetylated hybrids were found to be more functional and efficient than nonacetylated forms.

In Vitro Evaluation of Ferutinin Rich-Ferula communis L., ssp. glauca, Root Extract on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: Antioxidant Properties and Cell Cycle Modulation

The clinical use of anthracycline Doxorubicin as an antineoplastic drug in cancer therapy is limited by cardiotoxic effects that can lead to congestive heart failure. Recent studies have shown several promising activities of different species of the genus Ferula belonging to the Apiaceae Family. Ferula communis is the main source of Ferutinin-a bioactive compound isolated from many species of Ferula-studied both in vitro and in vivo because of their different effects, such as estrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and also antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, performed in a dose-dependent and cell-dependent way. However, the potential protective role of Ferutinin in myocardium impairment, caused by chemotherapeutic drugs, still represents an unexplored field. The aim of this study was to test the effects of Ferutinin rich-Ferula communis L. root extract (FcFE) at different concentrations on H9C2 cells. Moreover, we evaluated its antioxidant properties in cardiomyocytes in order to explore new potential therapeutic activities never examined before in other experimental works. FcFE, at a concentration of 0.25 µM, in the H9C2 line, significantly reduced the ROS production induced by H2O2 (50 µM and 250 µM) and traced the cell mortality of the H9C2 co-treated with Ferutinin 0.25 µM and Doxorubicin (0.5 µM and 1 µM) to control levels. These results showed that FcFE could protect against Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Further molecular characterization of this natural compound may open the way for testing FcFE at low concentrations in vivo and in clinical studies as an adjuvant in cancer therapy in association with anthracyclines to prevent side effects on heart cells.

Semperivium Ruthenicum Koch Extract-Loaded Bio-Adhesive Formulation: A Novel Oral Antioxidant Delivery System for Oxidative Stress Reduction

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the oral cavity and can ultimately lead to tooth loss. Oxidative stress has been identified as a key factor in the development of periodontitis. In recent years, natural polyphenols have gained attention for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study aims to evaluate the potential of a bio-adhesive patch loaded with Semperivium ruthenicum Koch extract, rich in polyphenols, as a novel oral antioxidant delivery system for reducing oxidative stress in periodontitis. The plant extracts were prepared by maceration and were subjected to HPLC analysis for the identification and quantification of polyphenols. The bio-adhesive patches were prepared using a solvent-casting technique and characterized for their technical characteristics and release kinetics. The patches demonstrated satisfactory technical characteristics and followed Korsmeyer-Peppas release kinetics, with the active ingredients diffusing non-Fickian from the polymer matrix as it eroded over time. The bio-adhesive strength of the patches was comparable to other similar formulations, suggesting that the obtained patches can be tested in vivo conditions. The results suggest that treating oral periodontitis with natural polyphenols may effectively scavenge free radicals and regulate cytokine activity, leading to a reduction in oxidative stress. The non-smoking group had a mean saliva antioxidant activity of 7.86 ± 0.66% while the smoking group had a mean value of 4.53 ± 0.15%. Furthermore, treating oral oxidative stress may also contribute to overall gut health, as studies have shown a correlation between oral and gut microbiomes. Therefore, the use of bio-adhesive patches containing polyphenols may provide a promising approach for the treatment of periodontitis and its associated complications.

The effect of C60 fullerene on the mechanokinetics of muscle gastrocnemius contraction in chronically alcoholized rats

The C60 fullerene effect (oral administration at a dose of 1 mg kg-1) on the selected biomechanical parameters of muscle gastrocnemius contraction, biochemical indicators of blood and muscle tissue as well as histological changes in rat muscle tissue after chronic alcoholization for 3, 6 and 9 months was studied in detail. Water-soluble C60 fullerenes were shown to reduce the pathological processes development in the muscle apparatus by an average of (35-40)%. In particular, they reduced the time occurrence of fatigue processes in muscle during the long-term development of alcoholic myopathy and inhibited oxidative processes in muscle, thereby preventing its degradation. These findings open up the possibility of using C60 fullerenes as potent antioxidants for the correction of the pathological conditions of the muscle system arising from alcohol intoxication.