Oxidants, antioxidants, and the degenerative diseases of aging

Oxidative regulation and cytoprotective effects of γ-polyglutamic acid on surimi sol subjected to freeze-thaw process

Frozen surimi sol incline to protein oxidation, but the quality control strategies based on oxidation remain limited. Hence, the antioxidant and cryoprotective effects of γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) on freeze-thawed salt-dissolved myofibrillar protein (MP) sol were investigated. Results showed that γ-PGA could effectively regulate protein oxidation of MP sol during freeze-thawing with lower carbonyl contents and less oxidative cross-linking. Meanwhile, γ-PGA primely maintained sol protein structures, showing reduction of 15.28% of salt soluble protein contents at γ-PGA addition of 0.04% under unoxidized condition. Additionally, compared to the control group without oxidation treatment, cooking loss of heat-induced gel with 0.04% γ-PGA decreased by 47.19%, while gel strength obviously increased by 57.22% respectively. Overall, moderate γ-PGA addition (0.04%) could inhibit protein oxidation of sol, further improving frozen stability of sol through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interaction, but excessive γ-PGA was adverse to sol quality due to severe cross-linking between γ-PGA and MP.

Potent ROS inhibitors from Zanthoxylum armatumDC of Nepali origin

A bioassay-guided isolation on the plant Zanthoxylum armatum DC yielded compounds tambulin (1), and prudomestin (2), from ethyl acetate fraction which showed the highest ROS inhibiting activity (IC50 = 17.8 ± 1.1 µg/mL). Structure elucidation of pure compounds was done using mass and NMR spectroscopic techniques. Compounds 1 and 2 revealed potent ROS inhibition with IC50 = 7.5 ± 0.3 and 1.5 ± 0.3 µg/mL, respectively, as compared to standard ibuprofen (IC50 = 11.2 ± 1.9 µg/mL). Likewise, both compounds 1 and 2 showed potent antioxidant activity with IC50 = 32.65 ± 0.31 and 26.96 ± 0.19 µg/mL, respectively. In vitro studies were supported by molecular docking and drug-likeliness properties. In silico studies of 1 and 2 with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) showed perfect binding affinity with binding energies of -8.4 and -8.6 kcal/mol, respectively, comparable to standard ibuprofen (-7.7 kcal/mol). Drug likeness and ADMET showed higher gastrointestinal absorption of 1 and 2 and no toxic impact.

Sea cucumber-derived extract can protect skin cells from oxidative DNA damage and mitochondrial degradation, and promote wound healing

Our skin serves as the primary barrier against external environmental insults, the latter of which can cause oxidative stress within cells, while various bioactive peptides sourced from natural resources hold promise in protecting cells against such oxidative stress. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of a low molecular weight extract from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus, denoted as Sample-P, in facilitating cell migration and wound healing under oxidative stress conditions in skin cells. The naturally derived compound is a highly complex mix of peptides exhibiting antioxidative properties, as highlighted through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry peptide screening and an in vitro antioxidant assay. Our results demonstrate that Sample-P is capable of promoting cell migration while preventing severe stress responses such as visible through mTOR expression. To further identify the molecular pathways underpinning the overall protective mechanism of Sample-P, we have utilised a proteomics approach. Our data reveal that Sample-P regulates protein expression associated with ribosomal pathways, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which help in preserving DNA integrity and safeguarding cellular organelles, such as mitochondria and the ER, under oxidative stress conditions in skin cells. In summary, in the presence of H2O2, Sample-P exhibits antioxidative properties at both molecular and cellular levels, rendering it a promising candidate for topical skin treatment to wound healing and to address age-related skin conditions.

Human 8-oxoguanine glycosylase OGG1 binds nucleosome at the dsDNA ends and the super-helical locations

The human glycosylase OGG1 extrudes and excises the oxidized DNA base 8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG) to initiate base excision repair and plays important roles in many pathological conditions such as cancer, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Previous structural studies have used a truncated protein and short linear DNA, so it has been unclear how full-length OGG1 operates on longer DNA or on nucleosomes. Here we report cryo-EM structures of human OGG1 bound to a 35-bp long DNA containing an 8-oxoG within an unmethylated Cp-8-oxoG dinucleotide as well as to a nucleosome with an 8-oxoG at super-helical location (SHL)-5. The 8-oxoG in the linear DNA is flipped out by OGG1, consistent with previous crystallographic findings with a 15-bp DNA. OGG1 preferentially binds near dsDNA ends at the nucleosomal entry/exit sites. Such preference may underlie the enzyme's function in DNA double-strand break repair. Unexpectedly, we find that OGG1 bends the nucleosomal entry DNA, flips an undamaged guanine, and binds to internal nucleosomal DNA sites such as SHL-5 and SHL+6. We suggest that the DNA base search mechanism by OGG1 may be chromatin context-dependent and that OGG1 may partner with chromatin remodelers to excise 8-oxoG at the nucleosomal internal sites.

Nucleic acid binding affinity and antioxidant activity of N-m-Tolyl-4-Chlorophenoxyacetohydroxamicacid

Hydroxamic acids represent a group of weak organic acids, both naturally occurring and synthetically derived, characterized by the general formula RC(= O)N(R'OH). In this study, we investigated the binding behavior of N-m-tolyl-4-chlorophenoxyaceto hydroxamic acid with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) and torula yeast RNA (t-RNA) through a combination of techniques including UV-visible spectroscopy, fluorescence emission analysis, viscometry, and computational simulations using AutoDock4 software. Our findings reveal that the mode of binding between the compound and the nucleic acids is consistent with intercalation. Competitive binding experiments demonstrated that the complex competes effectively with ethidium bromide (EB) for binding to ct-DNA/t-RNA, displacing EB from its binding sites. Additionally, the introduction of the compound into the DNA-EB system resulted in a quenching of fluorescence emission peaks. Analysis of absorption spectra indicated a red shift and hypochromic shift when the compound interacted with DNA, further supporting the intercalative binding mode. The calculated binding constant (Kb) value for the compound is 6.62 × 104 M-1 and 5.40 × 103 M-1 indicating a strong interaction with ct-DNA and t-RNA respectively. We determined the Stern-Volmer constants for ct-DNA and t-RNA as 9.96 × 104 M-1 and 8.13 × 105 M-1, respectively. The binding free energy values for ct-DNA/t-RNA were calculated to be - 3.741 × 107 and - 5.425 × 108 kcal/mol, respectively. Viscometric studies corroborated the UV results, showing a continuous increase in relative viscosity of ct-DNA/t-RNA solutions with the addition of the optimal hydroxamic acid concentration. Furthermore, we assessed the antioxidant activity of the compound using DPPH-radical scavenging and β-carotene linoleic acid assays. Gel electrophoresis results demonstrated the compound's remarkable efficacy in preventing DNA damage. Collectively, all experimental evidence supports the conclusion that N-m-tolyl-4-chlorophenoxyaceto hydroxamic acid binds to ct-DNA/t-RNA through an intercalative mechanism, which is consistent with our molecular docking simulations.

Relationship between parental exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields and primarily hematopoietic neoplasms (lymphoma, leukemia) and tumors in the central nervous system in children: a systematic review

Low-frequency electromagnetic fields have grown exponentially in recent years due to technological development and modernization. The World Health Organization (WHO)/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), and recent studies have investigated the association between exposure to electromagnetic fields in parents and possible health effects in children, especially the development of tumours of the central nervous system (CNS). The objective of this systematic review was to collate all evidence on the relationship between parental occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields and the development of CNS cancer in children and to evaluate this association. This review was prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from January 1990 to April 2021. The search was conducted using the following search string: "occupational" AND "child" AND "electromagnetic" AND "cancer". Seventeen articles met our inclusion criteria: 13 case-control studies, two cohort studies, and 2 meta-analyses. Most of the studies showed several methodological weaknesses that limited their results. Due to a lack of consistency regarding the outcome as well as the heterogeneity in the reviewed studies, the body of evidence for the effects of parental exposure to electromagnetic fields is not clear. Methodological heterogeneity in the way that studies were conducted could be responsible for the lack of consistency in the findings. Overall, the body of evidence allows no conclusion on the relationship between parental exposure to electromagnetic fields and the occurrence of CNS tumours in children.

Genus Ribes: Ribes aureum, Ribes pauciflorum, Ribes triste, and Ribes dikuscha-Comparative Mass Spectrometric Study of Polyphenolic Composition and Other Bioactive Constituents

This study presents the metabolomic profiles of the four Ribes species (Ribes pauciflorum Turcz., Ribes triste Pall., Ribes dicuscha Fisch., and Ribes aureum Purch.). The plant material was collected during two expeditions in the Russian Far East. Tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect target analytes. A total of 205 bioactive compounds (155 compounds from polyphenol group and 50 compounds from other chemical groups) were tentatively identified from the berries and extracts of the four Ribes species. For the first time, 29 chemical constituents from the polyphenol group were tentatively identified in the genus Ribes. The newly identified polyphenols include flavones, flavonols, flavan-3-ols, lignans, coumarins, stilbenes, and others. The other newly detected compounds in Ribes species are the naphthoquinone group (1,8-dihydroxy-anthraquinone, 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxy-9(10H)-anthracenone, 8,8'-dihydroxy-2,2'-binaphthalene-1,1',4,4'-tetrone, etc.), polyhydroxycarboxylic acids, omega-3 fatty acids (stearidonic acid, linolenic acid), and others. Our results imply that Ribes species are rich in polyphenols, especially flavanols, anthocyanins, flavones, and flavan-3-ols. These results indicate the utility of Ribes species for the health and pharmaceutical industry.

In vivo DNA replication dynamics unveil aging-dependent replication stress

The genome duplication program is affected by multiple factors in vivo, including developmental cues, genotoxic stress, and aging. Here, we monitored DNA replication initiation dynamics in regenerating livers of young and old mice after partial hepatectomy to investigate the impact of aging. In young mice, the origin firing sites were well defined; the majority were located 10-50 kb upstream or downstream of expressed genes, and their position on the genome was conserved in human cells. Old mice displayed the same replication initiation sites, but origin firing was inefficient and accompanied by a replication stress response. Inhibitors of the ATR checkpoint kinase fully restored origin firing efficiency in the old mice but at the expense of an inflammatory response and without significantly enhancing the fraction of hepatocytes entering the cell cycle. These findings unveil aging-dependent replication stress and a crucial role of ATR in mitigating the stress-associated inflammation, a hallmark of aging.

Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Fruit Phenolic Bioactivities-A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Human Studies

This review is focused on the effects of lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) fruit phenolic compounds in human in vitro cells and in vivo clinical studies. Studies with lingonberries, lingonberry juice/lingonberry nectar/fermented lingonberry juice, and phenolic fractions with active molecules are reviewed. Lingonberry's bioactive substances have a diverse range of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiproteolytic, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Fermentation of lingonberries and modulation of the dysbiotic microbiome to a more symbiotic composition by favoring the growth of lactobacilli and inhibiting the growth of human opportunistic pathogens are discussed. Research results suggest that more studies on humans are needed.

Self-Internal Standard Fluorescence for Ultrasensitive Detecting of mtDNA to Evaluate Matrilineal Genetic Defect Levels

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a unique genetic material characterized by maternal inheritance. It possesses a circular structure devoid of histone protection and exhibits low cellular abundance, which poses great challenges for its sensitive and selective detection at the living cell level. Herein, we have designed three bis-naphthylimide probes with varying linker lengths (NANn-OH, n = 0, 2, 6), facilitating the formation of distinct twisted or folded molecular conformations in the free state. These probes emit the red fluorescence around 627 nm with different fluorescence quantum yields (ΦNAN0-OH = 0.0016, ΦNAN2-OH = 0.0136, and ΦNAN6-OH = 0.0125). When encountering mtDNA (0.4-3.4 μg/mL), these probes undergo conformational changes depending on the length of the attached C-strand and exhibit a gradually increasing fluorescence signal around 453 nm. The fluorescence intensity increased to 13.5-fold, 1.9-fold, and 8.2-fold, respectively. Notably, the red fluorescence intensities around 627 nm remain constant throughout this process, thus serving as an inherent correction mechanism for proportional fluorescence signal enhancement to improve selectivity and sensitivity. NAN0-OH, NAN2-OH, and NAN6-OH showed good linearity for mtDNA in the range of 0.4-3.4 μg/mL with detection limits of LODNAN0-OH = 1.04 μg/mL, LODNAN2-OH = 1.10 μg/mL, and LODNAN6-OH = 1.15 μg/mL. Cellular experiments reveal that NAN6-OH effectively monitors curcumin-induced mtDNA damage in HepG-2 cells while enabling monitoring of genetic mtDNA damage. We anticipate that this tool holds significant potential for the precise evaluation of maternal genetic defects, thereby enhancing hypersensitive assessment in clinical medicine.

Multiplexed colorimetric assay of antioxidants in wines with paper-based sensors fabricated by pen plotting

This work reports the development of low-cost and rapid multiplexed colorimetric assay of antioxidants (total phenolics, antioxidant capacity, flavonoids and anthocyanins) in wines at daisy-shaped fluidic paper-based analytical devices (PADs). The desired fluidic patterns were formed on paper by pen drawing and colorimetric reagents were immobilized at the 6 peripheral test zones. The sample was added at the central sample zone, migrated to the test zones and reacted with the immobilized reagents producing characteristic colors that were captured and analyzed. The paper-based approach was applied to the analysis of several wine samples and the results were statistically correlated to standard solution-based colorimetric assays, indicating that it could be reliably used for ranking wines according to their antioxidants content. In addition, the paper-based analytical methodology is simple, instrument-free, portable, cost-effective, rapid and environment friendly.

Levodopa-induced dyskinesia: brain iron deposition as a new hypothesis

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease in the older adults. The main pathological change in PD is the degenerative death of dopamine (DA) neurons in the midbrain substantia nigra, which causes a significant decrease in the DA content of the striatum. However, the exact etiology of this pathological change remains unclear. Genetic factors, environmental factors, aging, and oxidative stress may be involved in the degenerative death of dopaminergic neurons in PD. Pharmacological treatment using levodopa (L-DOPA) remains the main treatment for PD. Most patients with PD consuming L-DOPA for a long time usually develop levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID) after 6.5 years of use, and LID seriously affects the quality of life and increases the risk of disability. Recently, studies have revealed that cerebral iron deposition may be involved in LID development and that iron deposition has neurotoxic effects and accelerates disease onset. However, the relationship between cerebral iron deposition and LID remains unclear. Herein, we reviewed the mechanisms by which iron deposition may be associated with LID development, which are mainly related to oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction. Using iron as an important target, the search and development of safe and effective brain iron scavengers, and thus the alleviation and treatment of LID, has a very important scientific and clinical value, as well as a good application prospect.

Reaction of methylene blue with OH radicals in the aqueous environment: mechanism, kinetics, products and risk assessment

Methylene Blue (MB) is an industrial chemical used in a broad range of applications, and hence its discharge is a concern. Yet, the environmental effects of its degradation by HO˙ radicals have not been fully studied yet. This study employs quantum chemical calculations to investigate the two-step degradation of MB by HO˙ radicals in aqueous environments. It was found that MB undergoes a rapid reaction with the HO˙ radical, with an overall rate constant of 5.51 × 109 to 2.38 × 1010 M-1 s-1 and has a rather broad lifetime range of 11.66 hours to 5.76 years in water at 273-383 K. The calculated rate constants are in good agreement with the experimental values (k calculation/k experimental = 2.62, pH > 2, 298 K) attesting to the accuracy of the calculation method. The HO˙ + MB reaction in water followed the formal hydrogen transfer and radical adduct formation mechanisms, yielding various intermediates and products. Based on standard tests these intermediates and some of the products can pose a threat to aquatic organisms, including fish, daphnia, and green algae, they have poor biodegradability and have the potential to induce developmental toxicity. Hence MB in the environment is of moderate concern depending on the ratio of safe to harmful breakdown products.

Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio: A Promising Predictor of Mortality in Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. A Retrospective Analysis of a Single Hospital Center

OBJECTIVES

To examine how the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) affects both short-term and long-term mortality in individuals with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

DESIGN

A retrospective study.

SETTING

Critical care unit.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 785 patients with ARDS.

INTERVENTIONS

There were three groups in the NLR study. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) between the NLR and 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year mortality.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The 785 patients included 329 women (41.9%) and 456 men (58.1%), with a mean age of 63.4 ± 16.7 years and a mean NLR of 14.2 ± 9.8. The study population was divided into 3 groups based on NLR value. In the unadjusted model, compared to group 1 (NLR <6.0), group 2 (NLR 6.0-11.3) and group 3 (NLR >11.3) had HR values of 1.12 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83-1.52) and 2.39 (95% CI, 1.87-3.04), respectively, for 30-day all-cause mortality. This association remained significant after adjusting for potential confounding variables (HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.18-2.02), with a statistically significant trend (p = 0.0004) in group 3 (NLR >11.3). A similar effect was seen on both 90-day and 1-year all-cause mortality. The R2 value in a 2-piecewise linear regression was 1.25 (95% CI, 1.06-1.48; p < 0.0001) on the left side of the inflection point (NLR 17.1).

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective single-center study, the NLR was a potential predictor of both short- and long-term mortality in patients with ARDS and may aid risk stratification.

Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

We propose that intermittent fasting (time-restricted eating), in agreement with the conclusions of other biologists, as revealed in recent publications, promotes the achievement of numerous health benefits including the extension of human and animal lifespans. Background: There is evidence, obtained both with animal model systems and with humans, that intermittent fasting has health benefits. These benefits include extended longevity, weight loss, and counteracting various disease conditions. Such procedures positively influence the benefits of human tissue-specific microbiomes and minimize the consequences of organellar apoptosis. Key Messages: In this review, we attempt to summarize the predominant evidence, published in the scientific literature, relevant to the conclusions that in general, and in many specific instances, intermittent fasting has long-term benefits to animals, including humans, with respect to overall and specific organismal health and longevity.

The Involvement of Antioxidants in Cognitive Decline and Neurodegeneration: Mens Sana in Corpore Sano

With neurodegenerative disorders being on the rise, a great deal of research from multiple fields is being conducted in order to further knowledge and propose novel therapeutic interventions. Among these investigations, research on the role of antioxidants in contrasting cognitive decline is putting forward interesting and promising results. In this review, we aim to collect evidence that focused on the role of a variety of antioxidants and antioxidant-rich foods in improving or stabilizing cognitive functions, memory, and Alzheimer's disease, the most common neurodegenerative disorder. Specifically, we considered evidence collected on humans, either through longitudinal studies or randomized, placebo-controlled ones, which evaluated cognitive performance, memory abilities, or the progression level of neurodegeneration. Overall, despite a great deal of variety between study protocols, cohorts of participants involved, neuropsychological tests used, and investigated antioxidants, there is a solid trend that suggests that the properties of antioxidants may be helpful in hampering cognitive decline in older people. Thus, the help of future research that will further elucidate the role of antioxidants in neuroprotection will lead to the development of novel interventions that will take into account such findings to provide a more global approach to treating neurodegenerative disorders.

From by-products to new application opportunities: the enhancement of the leaves deriving from the fruit plants for new potential healthy products

In the last decades, the world population and demand for any kind of product have grown exponentially. The rhythm of production to satisfy the request of the population has become unsustainable and the concept of the linear economy, introduced after the Industrial Revolution, has been replaced by a new economic approach, the circular economy. In this new economic model, the concept of "the end of life" is substituted by the concept of restoration, providing a new life to many industrial wastes. Leaves are a by-product of several agricultural cultivations. In recent years, the scientific interest regarding leaf biochemical composition grew, recording that plant leaves may be considered an alternative source of bioactive substances. Plant leaves' main bioactive compounds are similar to those in fruits, i.e., phenolic acids and esters, flavonols, anthocyanins, and procyanidins. Bioactive compounds can positively influence human health; in fact, it is no coincidence that the leaves were used by our ancestors as a natural remedy for various pathological conditions. Therefore, leaves can be exploited to manufacture many products in food (e.g., being incorporated in food formulations as natural antioxidants, or used to create edible coatings or films for food packaging), cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries (e.g., promising ingredients in anti-aging cosmetics such as oils, serums, dermatological creams, bath gels, and other products). This review focuses on the leaves' main bioactive compounds and their beneficial health effects, indicating their applications until today to enhance them as a harvesting by-product and highlight their possible reuse for new potential healthy products.

Exploring enzyme inhibition and comprehensive mechanisms of antioxidant/prooxidative activity of natural furanocoumarin derivatives: A comparative kinetic DFT study

This study aimed to explore the antioxidant and prooxidative activity of two natural furanocoumarin derivatives, Bergaptol (4-Hydroxy-7H-furo [3,2-g] [1]benzopyran-7-one, BER) and Xanthotoxol (9-Hydroxy-7H-furo [3,2-g] [1]benzopyran-7-one, XAN). The collected thermodynamic and kinetic data demonstrate that both compounds possess substantial antiradical activity against HO• and CCl3OO• radicals in physiological conditions. BER exhibited better antiradical activity in comparison to XAN, which can be attributed to the enhanced deprotonation caused by the positioning of the -OH group on the psoralen ring. In contrast to highly reactive radical species, newly formed radical species BER• and XAN• exhibited negligible reactivity towards the chosen constitutive elements of macromolecules (fatty acids, amino acids, nucleobases). Furthermore, in the presence of O2•─, the ability to regenerate newly formed radicals BER• and XAN• was observed. Conversely, in physiological conditions in the presence of Cu(II) ions, both compounds exhibit prooxidative activity. Nevertheless, the prooxidative activity of both compounds is less prominent than their antioxidant activity. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that anionic species can engage in the creation of a chelate complex, which restricts the reduction of metal ions when reducing agents are present (O2•─ and Asc─). Moreover, studies have demonstrated that these chelating complexes can be coupled with other radical species, hence enhancing their ability to inactivate radicals. Both compounds exhibited substantial inhibitory effects against enzymes involved in the direct or indirect generation of ROS: Xanthine Oxidase (XOD), Lipoxygenase (LOX), Myeloperoxidase (MPO), NADPH oxidase (NOX).

Micronutrient Antioxidants for Men (Menevit®) Improve Sperm Function by Reducing Oxidative Stress, Resulting in Improved Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes

Oxidative stress (OS) affects men's health and impairs spermatogenesis. Micronutrient antioxidants are available for male infertility as complemental support; however, their efficacy remains debatable. This study aimed to investigate whether antioxidants can help to reduce sperm OS and improve semen analysis and quality. We included 171 male partners of couples planning to undergo assisted reproductive technology (ART). Male partners, aged 29-41 years, of couples intending to conceive were self-selected to take daily antioxidants (n = 84) containing folic acid and zinc, or not to take antioxidants (n = 52) for 6 months. We analyzed the alterations in serum oxidant levels, sperm parameters, OS, and deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation after 3 and 6 months. Additionally, implantation, clinical pregnancy, and miscarriage rates after vitrified-warmed embryo transfer were compared between those taking antioxidants and those not taking them after 6 months. In men with high static oxidation-reduction potential (sORP), we observed a significant improvement in sperm concentration and sORP. The high-quality blastocyst rate tended to increase, and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates also significantly increased after 6 months of intervention. The micronutrient antioxidants could improve sperm function by reducing OS and improving ART outcomes. Therefore, micronutrient antioxidants may be a viable treatment option for male infertility.

The association between oxidative balance score and frailty in adults across a wide age spectrum: NHANES 2007-2018

Background: Frailty has been one of the most serious global public health challenges we will ever face. Oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of frailty, and may be accurately reflected by the oxidative balance score (OBS). However, there have been no studies examining the effect of OBS on frailty. Therefore, we aimed to explore the association between OBS and frailty and whether there was an interaction between the outcomes. Methods: 22 914 participants aged over 20 years taking part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2007-2018 were involved in the study. Sixteen dietary factors and four lifestyle factors were selected to score the OBS. A modified 36-item deficit cumulative frailty index (FI) was used to assess the degree of frailty. The association between OBS and frailty was analyzed using binary logistic regression. Subgroup analysis and interaction tests were used to investigate whether this association was stable across populations. Results: A negative association between OBS and the prevalence of frailty was found in this study. There was also an interaction between OBS and age in their association with frailty. High OBS was significantly and negatively associated with the prevalence of frailty in the 20-39 and 40-64 age groups. In addition, higher OBS combined with a population in the 20-39 age group resulted in a stronger negative association with frailty. Conclusion: High OBS was significantly associated with lower odds of frailty. An interaction existed between OBS and age. Individuals, especially in relatively young populations, are advised to increase OBS through greater intake of antioxidant nutrients and healthier lifestyles, thereby reducing the adverse effects of frailty.

Changes in physical properties of universal composites and CAD/CAM materials after bleaching and antioxidant applications: Scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope evaluation

To evaluate the effects of vital bleaching agents and the subsequent application of ascorbic acid (AA) to universal composites and resin-based CAD/CAM blocks on the physical properties of materials. In the study; G-enial A'chord (GCA), Filtek Ultimate (FU), Clearfil Majesty (CM) composites, and LAVA Ultimate (LU), Cerasmart (GCC) CAD/CAM blocks were used. The materials were divided into two subgroups based on the applied bleaching type (n = 30/group): office bleaching (OB) and home bleaching (HB). After bleaching, AA was applied to the samples. Surface roughness, microhardness, and color change values of all samples were measured at three stages: initial (I), post-bleaching (B), and post-bleaching+AA application (BA). Statistical analysis was performed using 3-way Mixed ANOVA with Bonferroni correction (p < .05). The BA of the HB group of CM; the B of the HB group of LU; the B roughness values of both the OB and HB groups of GCC were significantly lower than I. The microhardness values of all the materials examined decreased significantly after both bleaching (p < .05). With regard to the AA application, it significantly decreased Ra values in the HB group of CM. In addition, it significantly increased the microhardness values in the HB groups of CM and GCC. Also, the ΔE001 and ΔE002 values for the FU and GCC HB groups were significantly higher than in the OB groups (p < .05). Bleaching and AA application affected the physical properties of the materials. The physical properties of the materials either remained unchanged or improved with the application of AA after bleaching. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This article presents in vitro results of a new approach that has not been studied before. Ascorbic acid, used to increase the bond strength between the material-tooth after bleaching, was used to eliminate the adverse effects of bleaching on the physical properties of aesthetic restorative materials. Additionally, the effects of all procedures on the materials were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). As a result of the study, it was concluded that the application of ascorbic acid after bleaching improved the physical properties of some of the materials.

Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of 5-mercapto(substitutedthio)-4-substituted-1,2,4-triazol based on nalidixic acid: A comprehensive study on its synthesis, characterization, and In silico evaluation

This study introduces a series of novel Alkyl thio-1,2,4-triazole (4a-p) and mercapto-1,2,4-triazole (3a-d) compounds derived from nalidixic acid. The synthesis was streamlined, involving interactions between nalidixic acid hydrazide and various isothiocyanates to yield cyclic and alkyl(aryl) sulfide compounds, characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, and elemental analysis. Antioxidant capabilities were quantified through DPPH and ABTS assays, highlighting significant potential, especially for compound 3d, which demonstrated an ABTS IC50 value of 0.397 μM, on par with ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.87 μM). Antibacterial efficacy was established through MIC assessments against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Candida albicans. Compounds 3b, 4e, 4h, 4j, 4i, 4m, and 4o showed broad-spectrum activity, with 4k and 4m exhibiting pronounced potency against E. coli. Molecular docking studies validated the antibacterial potential, with compounds 4f and 4h showing high binding affinities (docking scores of -9.8 and -9.6 kcal/mol, respectively), indicating robust interactions with the bacterial enzyme targets. These scores underscore the compounds' mechanistic basis for their antibacterial action and support their therapeutic promise. Furthermore, compounds 3b, 4i, and 4m, identified through drug-likeness and toxicity predictions, were highlighted for their favorable profiles, suggesting their suitability for oral antibiotic therapies. This comprehensive study, blending synthetic, in vitro, and in silico approaches, emphasizes the triazole derivatives' potential as future candidates for antibiotic and antioxidant applications, particularly spotlighting compounds 3b, 4i, and 4m due to their promising efficacy and safety profiles.

Role of reactive oxygen species in myelodysplastic syndromes

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as typical metabolic byproducts of aerobic life and play a pivotal role in redox reactions and signal transduction pathways. Contingent upon their concentration, ROS production not only initiates or stimulates tumorigenesis but also causes oxidative stress (OS) and triggers cellular apoptosis. Mounting literature supports the view that ROS are closely interwoven with the pathogenesis of a cluster of diseases, particularly those involving cell proliferation and differentiation, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic/acute myeloid leukemia (CML/AML). OS caused by excessive ROS at physiological levels is likely to affect the functions of hematopoietic stem cells, such as cell growth and self-renewal, which may contribute to defective hematopoiesis. We review herein the eminent role of ROS in the hematological niche and their profound influence on the progress of MDS. We also highlight that targeting ROS is a practical and reliable tactic for MDS therapy.

Role of Oxidative Stress in Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Hearing is essential for communication, and its loss can cause a serious disruption to one's social life. Hearing loss is also recognized as a major risk factor for dementia; therefore, addressing hearing loss is a pressing global issue. Sensorineural hearing loss, the predominant type of hearing loss, is mainly due to damage to the inner ear along with a variety of pathologies including ischemia, noise, trauma, aging, and ototoxic drugs. In addition to genetic factors, oxidative stress has been identified as a common mechanism underlying several cochlear pathologies. The cochlea, which plays a major role in auditory function, requires high-energy metabolism and is, therefore, highly susceptible to oxidative stress, particularly in the mitochondria. Based on these pathological findings, the potential of antioxidants for the treatment of hearing loss has been demonstrated in several animal studies. However, results from human studies are insufficient, and future clinical trials are required. This review discusses the relationship between sensorineural hearing loss and reactive oxidative species (ROS), with particular emphasis on age-related hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. Based on these mechanisms, the current status and future perspectives of ROS-targeted therapy for sensorineural hearing loss are described.

DePARylation is critical for S phase progression and cell survival

Poly(ADP-ribose)ylation or PARylation by PAR polymerase 1 (PARP1) and dePARylation by poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARG) are equally important for the dynamic regulation of DNA damage response. PARG, the most active dePARylation enzyme, is recruited to sites of DNA damage via pADPr-dependent and PCNA-dependent mechanisms. Targeting dePARylation is considered an alternative strategy to overcome PARP inhibitor resistance. However, precisely how dePARylation functions in normal unperturbed cells remains elusive. To address this challenge, we conducted multiple CRISPR screens and revealed that dePARylation of S phase pADPr by PARG is essential for cell viability. Loss of dePARylation activity initially induced S-phase-specific pADPr signaling, which resulted from unligated Okazaki fragments and eventually led to uncontrolled pADPr accumulation and PARP1/2-dependent cytotoxicity. Moreover, we demonstrated that proteins involved in Okazaki fragment ligation and/or base excision repair regulate pADPr signaling and cell death induced by PARG inhibition. In addition, we determined that PARG expression is critical for cellular sensitivity to PARG inhibition. Additionally, we revealed that PARG is essential for cell survival by suppressing pADPr. Collectively, our data not only identify an essential role for PARG in normal proliferating cells but also provide a potential biomarker for the further development of PARG inhibitors in cancer therapy.

Innovative Bioactive Products with Medicinal Value from Microalgae and Their Overall Process Optimization through the Implementation of Life Cycle Analysis-An Overview

Microalgae are being recognized as valuable sources of bioactive chemicals with important medical properties, attracting interest from multiple industries, such as food, feed, cosmetics, and medicines. This review study explores the extensive research on identifying important bioactive chemicals from microalgae, and choosing the best strains for nutraceutical manufacturing. It explores the most recent developments in recovery and formulation strategies for creating stable, high-purity, and quality end products for various industrial uses. This paper stresses the significance of using Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) as a strategic tool with which to improve the entire process. By incorporating LCA into decision-making processes, researchers and industry stakeholders can assess the environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of raw materials of several approaches. This comprehensive strategy will allow for the choosing of the most effective techniques, which in turn will promote sustainable practices for developing microalgae-based products. This review offers a detailed analysis of the bioactive compounds, strain selection methods, advanced processing techniques, and the incorporation of LCA. It will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and industry experts interested in utilizing microalgae for producing bioactive products with medicinal properties.

Mitochondrial dysfunction route as a possible biomarker and therapy target for human cancer

Mitochondria are vital organelles found within living cells and have signalling, biosynthetic, and bioenergetic functions. Mitochondria play a crucial role in metabolic reprogramming, which is a characteristic of cancer cells and allows them to assure a steady supply of proteins, nucleotides, and lipids to enable rapid proliferation and development. Their dysregulated activities have been associated with the growth and metastasis of different kinds of human cancer, particularly ovarian carcinoma. In this review, we briefly demonstrated the modified mitochondrial function in cancer, including mutations in mtDNA, reactive oxygen species production, dynamics, apoptosis of cells, autophagy, and calcium excess to maintain cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis. Furthermore, the mitochondrial dysfunction pathway for some genomic, proteomic, and metabolomics modifications in ovarian cancer has been studied. Additionally, ovarian cancer has been linked to targeted therapies and biomarkers found through various alteration processes underlying mitochondrial dysfunction, notably targeting reactive oxygen species, metabolites, rewind metabolic pathways, and chemo-resistant ovarian carcinoma cells.

Carcinogenesis caused by transcription-coupled DNA damage through GANP and other components of the TREX-2 complex

Perturbation of genes is important for somatic hypermutation to increase antibody affinity during B-cell immunity; however, it may also promote carcinogenesis. Previous studies have revealed that transcription is an important process that can induce DNA damage and genomic instability. Transciption-export-2 (TREX-2) complex, which regulates messenger RNA (mRNA) nuclear export, has been studied in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae; however, recent studies have started investigating the molecular function of the mammalian TREX-2 complex. The central molecule in the TREX-2 complex, that is, germinal center-associated nuclear protein (GANP), is closely associated with antibody affinity maturation as well as cancer etiology. In this review, we focus on carcinogenesis, lymphomagenesis, and teratomagenesis caused by transcription-coupled DNA damage through GANP and other components of the TREX-2 complex. We review the basic machinery of mRNA nuclear export and transcription-coupled DNA damage. We then briefly describe the immunological relationship between GANP and the affinity maturation of antibodies. Finally, we illustrate that the aberrant expression of the components of the TREX-2 complex, especially GANP, is associated with the etiology of various solid tumors, lymphomas, and testicular teratoma. These components serve as reliable predictors of cancer prognosis and response to chemotherapy.

Fluoride-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Approaches for Its Intervention

Fluoride is present everywhere in nature. The primary way that individuals are exposed to fluoride is by drinking water. It's interesting to note that while low fluoride levels are good for bone and tooth growth, prolonged fluoride exposure is bad for human health. Additionally, preclinical studies link oxidative stress, inflammation, and programmed cell death to fluoride toxicity. Moreover, mitochondria play a crucial role in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the other hand, little is known about fluoride's impact on mitophagy, biogenesis, and mitochondrial dynamics. These actions control the growth, composition, and organisation of mitochondria, and the purification of mitochondrial DNA helps to inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species and the release of cytochrome c, which enables cells to survive the effects of fluoride poisoning. In this review, we discuss the different pathways involved in mitochondrial toxicity and dysfunction induced by fluoride. For therapeutic approaches, we discussed different phytochemical and pharmacological agents which reduce the toxicity of fluoride via maintained by imbalanced cellular processes, mitochondrial dynamics, and scavenging the ROS.

Hepatocellular carcinoma cells downregulate NADH:Ubiquinone Oxidoreductase Subunit B3 to maintain reactive oxygen species homeostasis

BACKGROUND

HCC is a leading cause of cancer-related death. The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HCC remains elusive. Since a primary ROS source is the mitochondrial electron transport chain complex Ι and the NADH:ubiquinone Oxidoreductase Subunit B3 (NDUFB3), a complex I subunit, is critical for complex I assembly and regulates the associated ROS production, we hypothesize that some HCCs progress by hijacking NDUFB3 to maintain ROS homeostasis.

METHODS

NDUFB3 in human HCC lines was either knocked down or overexpressed. The cells were then analyzed in vitro for proliferation, migration, invasiveness, colony formation, complex I activity, ROS production, oxygen consumption, apoptosis, and cell cycle. In addition, the in vivo growth of the cells was evaluated in nude mice. Moreover, the role of ROS in the NDUFB3-mediated changes in the HCC lines was determined using cellular and mitochondrion-targeted ROS scavengers.

RESULTS

HCC tissues showed reduced NDUFB3 protein expression compared to adjacent healthy tissues. In addition, NDUFB3 knockdown promoted, while its overexpression suppressed, HCC cells' growth, migration, and invasiveness. Moreover, NDUFB3 knockdown significantly decreased, whereas its overexpression increased complex I activity. Further studies revealed that NDUFB3 overexpression elevated mitochondrial ROS production, causing cell apoptosis, as manifested by the enhanced expressions of proapoptotic molecules and the suppressed expression of the antiapoptotic molecule B cell lymphoma 2. Finally, our data demonstrated that the apoptosis was due to the activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway and cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase.

CONCLUSIONS

Because ROS plays essential roles in many biological processes, such as aging and cancers, our findings suggest that NDFUB3 can be targeted for treating HCC and other human diseases.

Cardiotoxicity and ROS Protection Assessment of three Structure-Related N-Acylhydrazones with Potential for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases

The senescence process is associated with accumulated oxidative damage and increased metal concentration in the heart and brain. Besides, abnormal metal-protein interactions have also been linked with the development of several conditions, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Over the years we have described a series of structure-related compounds with different activities towards models of such diseases. In this work, we evaluated the potential of three N-acylhydrazones (INHHQ: 8-hydroxyquinoline-2-carboxaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone, HPCIH: pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone and X1INH: 1-methyl-1H-imidazole-2-carboxaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone) to prevent oxidative stress in cellular models, with the dual intent of being active on this pathway and also to confirm their lack of cardiotoxicity as an important step in the drug development process, especially considering that the target population often presents cardiovascular comorbidity. The 8-hydroxyquinoline-contaning compound, INHHQ, exhibits a significant cardioprotective effect against hydrogen peroxide and a robust antioxidant activity. However, this compound is the most toxic to the studied cell models and seems to induce oxidative damage on its own. Interestingly, although not possessing a phenol group in its structure, the new-generation 1-methylimidazole derivative X1INH showed a cardioprotective tendency towards H9c2 cells, demonstrating the importance of attaining a compromise between activity and intrinsic cytotoxicity when developing a drug candidate.

Extraction of organic pigments from tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) for safe use in agro-products

The utilization of synthetic dyes in food industries is a great concern for food safety and health issues. So, natural pigments can be an excellent substitute for synthetic dyes and also health-friendly for consumers. In the experiment, natural pigments were extracted from tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.). Then the stability and consumer acceptance of the extracted pigments were examined. The highest amount of pigment was extracted from turmeric (2.14 ± 0.30 %) with ethanol solvent, followed by tomato (0.67 ± 0.06 %) with hexane: acetone (1:1) solvent, and red amaranth (0.78 ± 0.05 %) with acetone solvent. Turmeric pigment showed the highest stability in high temperatures and light exposure. All of the pigments were highly stable in a neutral environment; however, tomato pigment showed the highest stability index (84.33 ± 2.52) at pH 3.0, but turmeric pigment showed the highest stability (91.67 ± 1.53) at pH 5.0. The simple preference test revealed that the use of turmeric pigment in boiled rice had the highest acceptance rate, and in terms of taste and flavor, red amaranth pigments in ice cream. So turmeric pigment can be utilized in high-temperature processing and/or acidic foods, but tomato and red amaranth pigments might be in low-temperature processing foods such as the ice-cream and soft drinks processing industry.

Action-at-a-distance mutations induced by 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine are dependent on APOBEC3

DNA oxidation is a serious threat to genome integrity and is involved in mutations and cancer initiation. The G base is most frequently damaged, and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (GO, 8-hydroxyguanine) is one of the predominant damaged bases. In human cells, GO causes a G:C→T:A transversion mutation at the modified site, and also induces untargeted substitution mutations at the G bases of 5'-GpA-3' dinucleotides (action-at-a-distance mutations). The 5'-GpA-3' sequences are complementary to the 5'-TpC-3' sequences, the preferred substrates for apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide-like 3 (APOBEC3) cytosine deaminases, and thus their contribution to mutagenesis has been considered. In this study, APOBEC3B, the most abundant APOBEC3 protein in human U2OS cells, was knocked down in human U2OS cells, and a GO-shuttle plasmid was then transfected into the cells. The action-at-a-distance mutations were reduced to ~25% by the knockdown, indicating that GO-induced action-at-a-distance mutations are highly dependent on APOBEC3B in this cell line.

DePARylation is critical for S phase progression and cell survival

Poly(ADP-ribose)ylation or PARylation by PAR polymerase 1 (PARP1) and dePARylation by poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARG) are equally important for the dynamic regulation of DNA damage response. PARG, the most active dePARylation enzyme, is recruited to sites of DNA damage via pADPr-dependent and PCNA-dependent mechanisms. Targeting dePARylation is considered an alternative strategy to overcome PARP inhibitor resistance. However, precisely how dePARylation functions in normal unperturbed cells remains elusive. To address this challenge, we conducted multiple CRISPR screens and revealed that dePARylation of S phase pADPr by PARG is essential for cell viability. Loss of dePARylation activity initially induced S phase-specific pADPr signaling, which resulted from unligated Okazaki fragments and eventually led to uncontrolled pADPr accumulation and PARP1/2-dependent cytotoxicity. Moreover, we demonstrated that proteins involved in Okazaki fragment ligation and/or base excision repair regulate pADPr signaling and cell death induced by PARG inhibition. In addition, we determined that PARG expression is critical for cellular sensitivity to PARG inhibition. Additionally, we revealed that PARG is essential for cell survival by suppressing pADPr. Collectively, our data not only identify an essential role for PARG in normal proliferating cells but also provide a potential biomarker for the further development of PARG inhibitors in cancer therapy.

Co-based Nanozymatic Profiling: Advances Spanning Chemistry, Biomedical, and Environmental Sciences

Nanozymes, next-generation enzyme-mimicking nanomaterials, have entered an era of rational design; among them, Co-based nanozymes have emerged as captivating players over times. Co-based nanozymes have been developed and have garnered significant attention over the past five years. Their extraordinary properties, including regulatable enzymatic activity, stability, and multifunctionality stemming from magnetic properties, photothermal conversion effects, cavitation effects, and relaxation efficiency, have made Co-based nanozymes a rising star. This review presents the first comprehensive profiling of the Co-based nanozymes in the chemistry, biology, and environmental sciences. The review begins by scrutinizing the various synthetic methods employed for Co-based nanozyme fabrication, such as template and sol-gel methods, highlighting their distinctive merits from a chemical standpoint. Furthermore, a detailed exploration of their wide-ranging applications in biosensing and biomedical therapeutics, as well as their contributions to environmental monitoring and remediation is provided. Notably, drawing inspiration from state-of-the-art techniques such as omics, a comprehensive analysis of Co-based nanozymes is undertaken, employing analogous statistical methodologies to provide valuable guidance. To conclude, a comprehensive outlook on the challenges and prospects for Co-based nanozymes is presented, spanning from microscopic physicochemical mechanisms to macroscopic clinical translational applications.

Pan-Cancer Interrogation of MUTYH Variants Reveals Biallelic Inactivation and Defective Base Excision Repair Across a Spectrum of Solid Tumors

PURPOSE

Biallelic germline pathogenic variants of the base excision repair (BER) pathway gene MUTYH predispose to colorectal cancer (CRC) and other cancers. The possible association of heterozygous variants with broader cancer susceptibility remains uncertain. This study investigated the prevalence and consequences of pathogenic MUTYH variants and MUTYH loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in a large pan-cancer analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 354,366 solid tumor biopsies that were sequenced as part of routine clinical care were analyzed using a validated algorithm to distinguish germline from somatic MUTYH variants.

RESULTS

Biallelic germline pathogenic MUTYH variants were identified in 119 tissue biopsies. Most were CRCs and showed increased tumor mutational burden (TMB) and a mutational signature consistent with defective BER (COSMIC Signature SBS18). Germline heterozygous pathogenic variants were identified in 5,991 biopsies and their prevalence was modestly elevated in some cancer types. About 12% of these cancers (738 samples: including adrenal gland cancers, pancreatic islet cell tumors, nonglioma CNS tumors, GI stromal tumors, and thyroid cancers) showed somatic LOH for MUTYH, higher rates of chromosome 1p loss (where MUTYH is located), elevated genomic LOH, and higher COSMIC SBS18 signature scores, consistent with BER deficiency.

CONCLUSION

This analysis of MUTYH alterations in a large set of solid cancers suggests that in addition to the established role of biallelic pathogenic MUTYH variants in cancer predisposition, a broader range of cancers may possibly arise in MUTYH heterozygotes via a mechanism involving somatic LOH at the MUTYH locus and defective BER. However, the effect is modest and requires confirmation in additional studies before being clinically actionable.

Decline of DNA damage response along with myogenic differentiation

DNA integrity is incessantly confronted to agents inducing DNA lesions. All organisms are equipped with a network of DNA damage response mechanisms that will repair DNA lesions and restore proper cellular activities. Despite DNA repair mechanisms have been revealed in replicating cells, still little is known about how DNA lesions are repaired in postmitotic cells. Muscle fibers are highly specialized postmitotic cells organized in syncytia and they are vulnerable to age-related degeneration and atrophy after radiotherapy treatment. We have studied the DNA repair capacity of muscle fiber nuclei and compared it with the one measured in proliferative myoblasts here. We focused on the DNA repair mechanisms that correct ionizing radiation (IR)-induced lesions, namely the base excision repair, the nonhomologous end joining, and the homologous recombination (HR). We found that in the most differentiated myogenic cells, myotubes, these DNA repair mechanisms present weakened kinetics of recruitment of DNA repair proteins to IR-damaged DNA. For base excision repair and HR, this decline can be linked to reduced steady-state levels of key proteins involved in these processes.

Serum Mg, Zn and Fe levels among coronary artery disease patients in an urban south Indian region

Nutrition plays a crucial role in CAD development, with trace elements like zinc, magnesium, copper, and iron impacting atherogenesis through their antioxidant or oxidant activity. This cross sectional study was conducted under the ICMR-STS program with IEC approval with the aim to estimate and correlate serum magnesium, zinc, and iron levels in CAD patients compared to healthy Individuals in the Urban South Indian population (50 cases, 50 controls, aged 40-70 years). Statistical analyses revealed a significant difference in serum iron levels between cases (95.10 ± 38.82 µg/dL) and controls (118.30 ± 50.54 µg/dL) with a p-value of 0.012. Serum magnesium levels showed a marginal difference between cases (1.97±0.11 mg/dL) and controls (1.92±0.15 mg/dL) with a p-value of 0.053. However, serum zinc levels did not exhibit a statistically significant difference between cases (123.47 ± 26.35 mg/dL) and controls (118.90 ± 32.77 mg/dL) with a p-value of 0.445. Thus, data shows the association between low serum iron levels and an increased risk of coronary artery disease.

Dopamine oxidation promoted by human telomeric DNA models in the presence of a Cu(II) terpyridine chelate

We found that under oxidative stress conditions, the coexistence of human telomeric DNA (HT-DNA) and a copper-terpyridine metallodrug can accelerate dopamine oxidation. The unwinding of HT-DNA from a duplex to cytosine-rich (C-rich) and guanine-rich (G-rich) single strands promotes dopamine oxidation in a general order of C-rich > G-rich > duplex. Along with dopamine oxidation, HT-DNA also undergoes severe damage.

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.

Development of mitochondrial gene-editing strategies and their potential applications in mitochondrial hereditary diseases: a review

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a critical genome contained within the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells, with many copies present in each mitochondrion. Mutations in mtDNA often are inherited and can lead to severe health problems, including various inherited diseases and premature aging. The lack of efficient repair mechanisms and the susceptibility of mtDNA to damage exacerbate the threat to human health. Heteroplasmy, the presence of different mtDNA genotypes within a single cell, increases the complexity of these diseases and requires an effective editing method for correction. Recently, gene-editing techniques, including programmable nucleases such as restriction endonuclease, zinc finger nuclease, transcription activator-like effector nuclease, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated 9 and base editors, have provided new tools for editing mtDNA in mammalian cells. Base editors are particularly promising because of their high efficiency and precision in correcting mtDNA mutations. In this review, we discuss the application of these techniques in mitochondrial gene editing and their limitations. We also explore the potential of base editors for mtDNA modification and discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with their application in mitochondrial gene editing. In conclusion, this review highlights the advancements, limitations and opportunities in current mitochondrial gene-editing technologies and approaches. Our insights aim to stimulate the development of new editing strategies that can ultimately alleviate the adverse effects of mitochondrial hereditary diseases.

Herbal Components Inspiring Current Lifestyle Disease Treatment: Role of Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are the foods that are used to prevent and cure diseases. Food and nutrients are essential for the body's normal function and aid in the maintenance of an individual's health and prevent various diseases. Nutraceuticals are medicinal foods that aid in the maintenance of health, the enhancement of immunity, and the prevention and treatment of specific diseases. The markets of nutraceuticals are one of the fastest-growing industry segments. The prime reason for this accelerated market growth lies in the fact that nutraceuticals are low cost, can prevent diseases to occur, hence, can save the health care cost, have more nutritional value, and many others. Nutraceuticals can be classified on different foundations based on what they promise, natural sources, and nutraceutical food available in the market. This article will discuss those classifications in detail along with the role of nutraceuticals in lifestyle diseases, regulations, market trends, and prospects of nutraceuticals. The article will also highlight the concern areas which play as the limiting factor in the nutraceuticals industry growth like lack of quality control, lack of data on its working, and many other things.

Epigenetic and "redoxogenetic" adaptation to physical exercise

Exercise-induced adaptation is achieved by altering the epigenetic landscape of the entire genome leading to the expression of genes involved in various processes including regulatory, metabolic, adaptive, immune, and myogenic functions. Clinical and experimental data suggest that the methylation pattern/levels of promoter/enhancer is not linearly correlated with gene expression and proteome levels during physical activity implying a level of complexity and interplay with other regulatory modulators. It has been shown that a higher level of physical fitness is associated with a slower DNA methylation-based aging clock. There is strong evidence supporting exercise-induced ROS being a key regulatory mediator through overlapping events, both as signaling entities and through oxidative modifications to various protein mediators and DNA molecules. ROS generated by physical activity shapes epigenome both directly and indirectly, a complexity we are beginning to unravel within the epigenetic arrangement. Oxidative modification of guanine to 8-oxoguanine is a non-genotoxic alteration, does not distort DNA helix and serves as an epigenetic-like mark. The reader and eraser of oxidized guanine is the 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1, contributing to changes in gene expression. In fact, it can modulate methylation patterns of promoters/enhancers consequently leading to multiple phenotypic changes. Here, we provide evidence and discuss the potential roles of exercise-induced ROS in altering cytosine methylation patterns during muscle adaptation processes.

Antioxidant properties of date seeds extract (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in alloxan induced damage in rats

The study was conducted to examine the antioxidant activity and evaluate the protective effects of the date seeds powder kentichi against alloxan-induced damage in the liver, kidney, and pancreas in diabetic's rats. Group 1: control group, that did not receive any treatment, Group 2: alloxan was injected intraperitoneally (120 mg/kg body weight) for two days (Diab), Group 3: treated only by date seeds powder added in the diet (300 g/kg) for 6 weeks (DSPK), Group 4: alloxan-diabetic rats treated with date seeds powder (300 g/kg) (DSPK + Diab). Estimations of biochemical parameters in blood were determined. TBARS, SOD, CAT, and GPx activities were determined. A histopathological study was done by immersing pieces of both organs in a fixative solution followed by paraffin hematoxylin-eosin staining. In addition, the antioxidant activities of DSPK were evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and ABTS free radical scavenging. The results revealed that date seeds significantly decreased serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, T-protein, ALP, D-bili and T-bili levels. In addition, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities that had been reduced in liver, kidney, and pancreas of the treated group were restored by DSPK treatments and, therefore, the lipid peroxidation level was reduced in the liver, kidney and pancreas tissue compared to the control group. Additionally, the histological structure in these organs was restored after treatment with date seeds powder.

A Comprehensive Study of the Radical Scavenging Activity of Rosmarinic Acid

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is reported in separate studies to be either an inducer or reliever of oxidative stress, and this contradiction has not been resolved. In this study, we present a comprehensive examination of the radical scavenging activity of RA using density functional theory calculations in comparison with experimental data. In model physiological media, RA exhibited strong HO• radical scavenging activity with overall rate constant values of 2.89 × 1010 and 3.86 × 109 M-1 s-1. RA is anticipated to exhibit excellent scavenging properties for HOO• in an aqueous environment (koverall = 3.18 × 108 M-1 s-1, ≈2446 times of Trolox) following the hydrogen transfer and single electron transfer pathways of the dianion state. The neutral form of the activity is equally noteworthy in a lipid environment (koverall = 3.16 × 104 M-1 s-1) by the formal hydrogen transfer mechanism of the O6(7,15,16)-H bonds. Chelation with RA may prevent Cu(II) from reduction by the ascorbic acid anion (AA-), hence blocking the OIL-1 pathway, suggesting that RA in an aqueous environment also serves as an OIL-1 antioxidant. The computational findings exhibit strong concurrence with the experimental observations, indicating that RA possesses a significant efficacy as a radical scavenger in physiological environments.

Accumulation of 8-oxodG within the human mitochondrial genome positively associates with transcription

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can be subject to internal and environmental stressors that lead to oxidatively generated damage and the formation of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanine (8-oxodG). The accumulation of 8-oxodG has been linked to degenerative diseases and aging, as well as cancer. Despite the well-described implications of 8-oxodG in mtDNA for mitochondrial function, there have been no reports of mapping of 8-oxodG across the mitochondrial genome. To address this, we used OxiDIP-Seq and mapped 8-oxodG levels in the mitochondrial genome of human MCF10A cells. Our findings indicated that, under steady-state conditions, 8-oxodG is non-uniformly distributed along the mitochondrial genome, and that the longer non-coding region appeared to be more protected from 8-oxodG accumulation compared with the coding region. However, when the cells have been exposed to oxidative stress, 8-oxodG preferentially accumulated in the coding region which is highly transcribed as H1 transcript. Our data suggest that 8-oxodG accumulation in the mitochondrial genome is positively associated with mitochondrial transcription.

Synthesis of novel nicotinic acid derivatives of potential antioxidant and anticancer activity

This study comprises the design and synthesis of novel nicotinic acid-based cytotoxic agents with selective inhibitory efficacy against the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). Screening of novel compounds for cytotoxicity was assessed against 60 human cancer cell lines. The two most active compounds, 5b and 5c, and the reference drugs sorafenib and doxorubicin were investigated against HCT-15, PC-3, and CF-295 cancer cell lines. Compound 5c exhibited the highest cytotoxic potential compared to doxorubicin against the HCT-15 and PC-3 tumor cell lines. Moreover, it exhibited higher cytotoxic potential and selectivity toward the HCT-15 cell panel compared with sorafenib. Compound 5c demonstrated promising VEGFR-2 inhibition (concentration needed to inhibit cell viability by 50%, IC50  = 0.068 μM) and superior VEGFR-2 selectivity over the epidermal growth factor receptor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β enzymes. It also reduced the total and phosphorylated VEGFR-2 and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by a 4.3-fold rise in caspase-3 levels. The antioxidant potential of the new compounds was determined via measuring the superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, among which compound 5c exhibited an SOD level almost comparable to ascorbic acid. These results suggested that compound 5c exhibited dual cytotoxic and antioxidant activities. Docking of 5c into the VEGFR-2 pocket showed a similar binding mode to sorafenib. Moreover, the ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) profile of 5c outlined drug-likeness. Finally, The density functional theory calculations displayed an increased binding affinity of 5c to the target enzyme.

OH Radical-Induced Oxidation in Nucleosides and Nucleotides Unraveled by Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Infrared Multiple Photon Dissociation Spectroscopy

OH⋅-induced oxidation products of DNA nucleosides and nucleotides have been structurally characterized by collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (CID-MS2 ) and Infrared Multiple Photon Dissociation (IRMPD) spectroscopy. CID-MS2 results have shown that the addition of one oxygen atom occurs on the nucleobase moiety. The gas-phase geometries of +16 mass increment products of 2'-deoxyadenosine (dA(O)H+ ), 2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-monophosphate (dAMP(O)H+ ), 2'-deoxycytidine (dC(O)H+ ), and 2'-deoxycytidine 5'-monophosphate (dCMP(O)H+ ) are extensively investigated by IRMPD spectroscopy and quantum-chemical calculations. We show that a carbonyl group is formed at the C8 position after oxidation of 2'-deoxyadenosine and its monophosphate derivative. For 2'-deoxycytidine and its monophosphate derivative, the oxygen atom is added to the C5 position to form a C-OH group. IRMPD spectroscopy has been employed for the first time to provide direct structural information on oxidative lesions in DNA model systems.

The elderberry diet protection against intrahippocampal Aβ-induced memory dysfunction; the abrogated apoptosis and neuroinflammation

This study evaluates whether elderberry (EB) effectively decreases the inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain cells to reduce Aβ toxicity. In the Aβ + EB group, EB powder was added to rats' routine diet for eight consecutive weeks. Then, spatial memory, working memory, and long-term memory, were measured using the Morris water maze, T-maze, and passive avoidance test. Also, in this investigation immunohistopathology, distribution of hippocampal cells, and gene expression was carried out. Voronoi tessellation method was used to estimate the spatial distribution of the cells in the hippocampus. In addition to improving the memory functions of rats with Aβ toxicity, a reduction in astrogliosis and astrocytes process length and the number of branches and intersections distal to the soma was observed in their hippocampus compared to the control group. Further analysis indicated that the EB diet decreased the caspase-3 expression in the hippocampus of rats with Aβ toxicity. Also, EB protected hippocampal pyramidal neurons against Aβ toxicity and improved the spatial distribution of the hippocampal neurons. Moreover, EB decreased the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes. Overall, our study suggest that EB can be considered a potent modifier of astrocytes' reactivation and inflammatory responses.