The effect of metal-containing nanoparticles on the health, performance and production of livestock animals and poultry

Cuproptosis Cell Death Molecular Events and Pathways to Liver Disease

Chronic liver disease ranks as the 11th leading cause of death worldwide, while hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality, representing a substantial risk to public health. Over the past few decades, the global landscape of chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), liver fibrosis, and HCC, has undergone substantial changes. Copper, a vital trace element for human health, is predominantly regulated by the liver. Both copper deficiency and excess can lead to cellular damage and liver dysfunction. Copper deposition is a genetic process of copper-dependent cell death associated with mitochondrial respiration, which is associated with cardiovascular disease and IBD. However, the roles of copper overload and cuproptosis in liver disease remain largely underexplored. This article examines recent studies on copper metabolism and cuproptosis in chronic liver disease, investigating the potential of targeting copper ions as a therapeutic approach. The objective is to offer insights and guidance for future investigations in this developing field of study.

Effects of Dietary Nano-Composite of Copper and Carbon on Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, and Cecal Microbiota of Weaned Ira White Rabbits

This experiment investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with nano-composites of copper and carbon (NCCC) on antioxidants, immune functions, and the cecum microbiota of weaned Ira white rabbits. A total of 240 weaned 35-day-old Ira white rabbits were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments (n = 6 per treatment, each replicate consisted of eight rabbits) that included the control group (CON) with a basal diet, the SAL group with 60 mg/kg salinomycin (SAL) in addition to the basal diet, and the NCCC I, II, III groups, which were supplemented with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg NCCC, respectively, in addition to the basal diet. The test lasted for 28 d. The results showed that dietary NCCC supplementation increased the liver Cu/Zn-SOD content and up-regulated the gene expression of Cu/Zn-SOD (p < 0.05), while also reducing the content of MDA in the liver and enhancing the antioxidant capacity of Ira white rabbits. Moreover, the NCCC diet supplementation reduced the content of IL-6 and down-regulated the relative expression of IL-6 and IL-1β genes in the jejunum of Ira white rabbits (p < 0.05). In addition, the metagenomic analysis of 16 S rRNA showed significant differences in the cecal microbial structure of weaned Ira white rabbits in the NCCC III group compared with the CON, NCCC I, and NCCC II groups (p < 0.05). Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phyla of cecal microorganisms in weaned Ira rabbits in the NCCC diet groups. The dominant genera included unidentified Eubacteriaceae, unclassified Lachnospiraceae, Christensenellaceae, and Ruminococcus. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Ruminococcus in the NCCC I and II groups was lower than that in the CON group in the cecum of Ira white rabbits (p < 0.05). In summary, our results showed that diet supplementation with NCCC could enhance the antioxidant capacity in the liver, alleviate intestinal inflammation, and regulate the structure of intestinal flora, improving the health of Ira white rabbits.

In vivo evaluation of selenium-tellurium based nanoparticles as a novel treatment for bovine mastitis

BACKGROUND

Bovine mastitis is one of the main causes of reduced production in dairy cows. The infection of the mammary gland is mainly caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, whose resistant strains make the treatment of mastitis with conventional antibiotics very difficult and result in high losses. Therefore, it is important to develop novel therapeutic agents to overcome the resistance of mastitis-causing strains. In this study, novel selenium-tellurium based nanoparticles (SeTeNPs) were synthesized and characterized. Their antibacterial activity and biocompatibility were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo using a bovine model. A total of 10 heifers were divided into experimental and control groups (5 animals each). After intramammary infection with methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and the development of clinical signs of mastitis, a dose of SeTeNPs was administered to all quarters in the experimental group.

RESULTS

Based on in vitro tests, the concentration of 149.70 mg/L and 263.95 mg/L of Se and Te, respectively, was used for application into the mammary gland. Three days after SeTeNPs administration, MRSA counts in the experimental group showed a significant reduction (P < 0.01) compared to the control group. The inhibitory effect observed within the in vitro experiments was thus confirmed, resulting in the suppression of infection in animals. Moreover, the superior biocompatibility of SeTeNPs in the organism was demonstrated, as the nanoparticles did not significantly alter the inflammatory response or histopathology at the site of application, i.e., mammary gland, compared to the control group (P > 0.05). Additionally, the metabolic profile of the blood plasma as well as the histology of the main organs remained unaffected, indicating that the nanoparticles had no adverse effects on the organism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that SeTeNPs can be used as a promising treatment for bovine mastitis in the presence of resistant bacteria. However, the current study is limited by its small sample size, making it primarily a proof of the concept for the efficacy of intramammary-applied SeTeNPs. Therefore, further research with a larger sample size is needed to validate these results.

Trace Minerals in Laying Hen Diets and Their Effects on Egg Quality

With the advancement in the egg industry sector, egg quality has assumed great significance in certain countries. Enhancements in the nutritional value of eggs may have direct affirmative consequences for daily nutrient intake and therefore for human health. Thus, affirmative improvement in egg quality boosts consumer preferences for eggs. Also, the improvement in eggshell quality can avoid the disposal of broken eggs and consequently economic losses. Therefore, poultry nutrition and mineral supplements have a significant impact on egg quality. Minerals are crucial in poultry feed for a number of biological processes, including catalytic, physiologic, and structural processes. For instance, they contribute to the biological processes necessary for forming and developing eggshells. To produce high-quality eggs for sale, diets must therefore contain the right amount of minerals. This review aims to highlight the role of both organic and inorganic minerals in improving egg quality, in addition to reviewing the interactions of mineral supplements with intestinal microbiota and subsequent effects on the egg quality.

Mechanisms of Heat Stress on Neuroendocrine and Organ Damage and Nutritional Measures of Prevention and Treatment in Poultry

Heat stress (HS) due to high temperatures has adverse effects on poultry, including decreased feed intake, lower feed efficiency, decreased body weight, and higher mortality. There are complex mechanisms behind heat stress in poultry involving the neuroendocrine system, organ damage, and other physiological systems. HS activates endocrine glands, such as the pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, and gonadal, by the action of the hypothalamus and sympathetic nerves, ultimately causing changes in hormone levels: HS leads to increased corticosterone levels, changes in triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels, decreased gonadotropin levels, reduced ovarian function, and the promotion of catecholamine release, which ultimately affects the normal productive performance of poultry. Meanwhile, heat stress also causes damage to the liver, lungs, intestines, and various immune organs, severely impairing organ function in poultry. Nutrient additives to feed are important measures of prevention and treatment, including natural plants and extracts, probiotics, amino acids, and other nutrients, which are effective in alleviating heat stress in poultry. Future studies need to explore the specific mechanisms through which heat stress impacts the neuroendocrine system in poultry and the interrelationships between the axes and organ damage so as to provide an effective theoretical basis for the development of preventive and treatment measures.

Growth, physiological responses, and meat quality of feedlot-finished Bonsmara steers offered unprocessed Mucuna pruriens utilis seed meal with or without conventional and green zinc oxide nanoparticles

Feedlot finishing of beef cattle on commercial nutrient-dense diets based on expensive corn (maize), soybean meal (SBM) and other commonly used protein-rich ingredients is economically unsustainable, especially for smallholder farmers. Rich in energy and proteins, Mucuna pruriens utilis seed meal (MSM) could replace corn and protein-rich ingredients in beef cattle diets provided its problems of antinutritional factors (ANFs) and high fiber content that compromise animal growth performance are resolved. The objective of this study was, therefore, to investigate the effects of incorporation of conventional (C-Nano-ZnO) versus green (G-Nano-ZnO) zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in the diets of feedlot-finished Bonsmara steers supplemented with 20% MSM (dry matter basis). In a completely randomized design, 28 Bonsmara steers were randomly allocated to 4 experimental diets [i.e., Control diet without MSM (C); C with 20% MSM replacing corn (partially) and the common protein-rich ingredients (CM); CM with 25 mg/kg C-Nano-ZnO (CM-C); and CM with 25 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO (CM-G)] each with seven replicates for 98 days. Performance variables, carcass traits, hemato-biochemistry, and meat quality were then measured. All data were analyzed with SAS using one-way ANOVA applying the GLM procedure, with diet as the independent variable, except for growth performance data that were analyzed as repeated measures. Results showed that while dietary MSM did not affect (P > 0.05) meat quality and serum biochemistry, it decreased body weight gain (BWG; P < 0.01), feed intake (FI; P = 0.001), feed conversion efficiency (FCE; P < 0.01), carcass fatness (P = 0.05), hot carcass weight (HCW; P < 0.05), cold carcass weight (CCW; P = 0.05), blood MCV (P < 0.05), MCH (P < 0.01), and neutrophils (P < 0.01) as it increased blood lymphocytes (P < 0.001). Interestingly, the harmful effects of MSM were attenuated by C-Nano-ZnO and worsened by G-Nano-ZnO. In conclusion, feeding of high dietary unprocessed MSM did not affect Bonsmara beef meat quality and serum biochemistry but compromised their growth performance, carcass traits, and some hematology responses, and these were alleviated by C-Nano-ZnO and deteriorated by G-Nano-ZnO incorporation. We recommend feeding commercial diets supplemented with 20% MSM, replacing corn and commonly used protein-rich ingredients, plus 25 mg/kg of C-Nano-ZnO to feedlot-finishing beef cattle.

Multilayer Nanocarrier for the Codelivery of Interferons: A Promising Strategy for Biocompatible and Long-Acting Antiviral Treatment

Background: Interferons (IFNs) are cytokines involved in the immune response with a synergistic regulatory effect on the immune response. They are therapeutics for various viral and proliferative conditions, with proven safety and efficacy. Their clinical application is challenging due to the molecules' size, degradation, and pharmacokinetics. We are working on new drug delivery systems that provide adequate therapeutic concentrations for these cytokines and prolong their half-life in the circulation, such as nanoformulations. Methods: Through nanoencapsulation using electrospray technology and biocompatible and biodegradable polymers, we are developing a controlled release system based on nanoparticles for viral infections of the respiratory tract. Results: We developed a controlled release system for viral respiratory tract infections. A prototype nanoparticle with a core was created, which hydrolyzed the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) shell , releasing the active ingredients interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). The chitosan (QS) core degraded slowly, with a controlled release of IFN-α. The primary and rapid effect of the interferon combination ensured an antiviral and immunoregulatory response from day one, induced by IFN-α and enhanced by IFN-γ. The multilayer design demonstrated an optimal toxicity profile. Conclusions: This formulation is an inhaled dry powder intended for the non-invasive intranasal route. The product does not require a cold chain and has the potential for self-administration in the face of emerging viral infections. This novel drug has applications in multiple infectious, oncological, and autoimmune conditions, and further development is proposed for its therapeutic potential. This prototype would ensure greater bioavailability, controlled release, fewer adverse effects, and robust biological action through the simultaneous action of both molecules.

Preparation and Characterization of Cumin Essential Oil Nanoemulsion (CEONE) as an Antibacterial Agent and Growth Promoter in Broilers: A Study on Efficacy, Safety, and Health Impact

This research characterized and explored the effect of cumin essential oil nanoemulsion (CEONE) on broiler growth performance, serum biochemistry, hematological parameters, and cecal microbial count. Day-old (n = 96) broilers (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to six treatments with five replicates of three broilers each. The dietary treatments consisted of negative control (only basal diet), positive control (basal diet + 200 µL of enrofloxacin), 25 µL (basal diet + 25 µL of CEONE), 50 µL (basal diet + 50 µL of CEONE), 75 µL (basal diet + 75 µL of CEONE), and 100 µL (basal diet + 100 µL of CEONE). The broiler's body weight gain (BWG) after 42 days of treatment exhibited increased weight in the CEONE group (976.47 ± 11.82-1116.22 ± 29.04). The gain in weight was further evidenced by the beneficial microbe load (107 log) compared to the pathogenic strain. All the biochemical parameters were observed in the normal range, except for a higher level of HDL and a lower LDL value. This safety has been validated by pKCSM toxicity analysis showing a safe and highly tolerable dose of cuminaldehyde. In conclusion, this research observed the potential of CEONE as a multifunctional agent. It is a valuable candidate for further application in combating bacterial infections and enhancing animal health and growth.

Use of Metallic Nanoparticles Against Eimeria-the Coccidiosis-Causing Agents: A Comprehensive Review

Coccidiosis is a protozoan disease caused by Eimeria species and is a major threat to the poultry industry. Different anti-coccidial drugs (diclazuril, amprolium, halofuginone, ionophores, sulphaquinoxaline, clopidol, and ethopabate) and vaccines have been used for their control. Still, due to the development of resistance, their efficacy has been limited. It is continuously damaging the economy of the poultry industry because under its control, almost $14 billion is spent, globally. Recent research has been introducing better and more effective control of coccidiosis by using metallic and metallic oxide nanoparticles. Zinc, zinc oxide, copper, copper oxide, silver, iron, and iron oxide are commonly used because of their drug delivery mechanism. These nanoparticles combined with other drugs enhance the effect of these drugs and give their better results. Moreover, by using nanotechnology, the resistance issue is also solved because by using several mechanisms at a time, protozoa cannot evolve and thus resistance cannot develop. Green nanotechnology has been giving better results due to its less toxic effects. Utilization of metallic and metallic oxide nanoparticles may present a new, profitable, and economical method of controlling chicken coccidiosis, thus by changing established treatment approaches and improving the health and production of chickens. Thus, the objective of this review is to discuss about economic burden of avian coccidiosis, zinc, zinc oxide, iron, iron oxide, copper, copper oxide, silver nanoparticles use in the treatment of coccidiosis, their benefits, and toxicity.

Contribution of nanotechnology to greater efficiency in animal nutrition and production

Feed costs present a major burden in animal production for human consumption, representing a key opportunity for cost reduction and profit improvement. Nanotechnology offers potential to increase productivity by creating higher-quality and safer products. The feed sector has benefited from the use of nanosystems to improve the stability and bioavailability of feed ingredients. The development of nanotechnology products for feed must consider the challenges raised by biological barriers as well as regulatory requirements. While some nanotechnology-based products are already commercially available for animal production, the exponential growth and application of these products requires further research ensuring their safety and the establishment of comprehensive legislative frameworks and regulatory guidelines. Thus, this article provides an overview of the current state of the art regarding nanotechnology solutions applied in feed, as well as the risks and opportunities aimed to help researchers and livestock producers.

Impact of different forms of selenium supplementation on growth and physiological performance of New Zealand white rabbits

Forty-eight weaned male New Zealand White rabbits aged 6 weeks with an initial body weight of (709.67 ± 13 g) were randomly divided into six experimental groups (8 rabbits each) for 6-14 weeks of age experimental periods. The present study was planned to evaluate the effect of using different forms of Selenium element (inorganic, nanoparticles and organic) as dietary supplementation on productive performance of rabbits. Six experimental groups in completely randomized design were used. The first group (G1, control) was fed the basal diet to cover maintenance and production allowances. Rabbits in the other groups G2, G3, G4 and G5 were fed the basal diet supplemented with Nano- Se at 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05 mg/kg diet, respectively. The 6th group (G6) was fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.1 mg/kg diet of salinized yeast (Se-yeast) as organic form. The results indicated that the highest values of nitrogen free extract (NFE) and crude fiber (CF) digestibility, live body weight, daily weight gain, hot carcass weight and dressing percentage were observed with those supplemented with Nano-Se at all levels compared with other treatments. However, feed conversion, net revenue and economic efficiency values were improved with Nano-Se groups followed by organic Se group in comparisons with the control group. Conclusively, the Nano-Se in rabbit's diet has a positive effect in improving rabbit's performance and economic efficiency compared to the inorganic Selenium.

Oxidative stress and potential effects of metal nanoparticles: A review of biocompatibility and toxicity concerns

Metal nanoparticles (M-NPs) have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties, driving diverse applications across packaging, biomedicine, electronics, and environmental remediation. However, the potential health risks associated with M-NPs must not be disregarded. M-NPs' ability to accumulate in organs and traverse the blood-brain barrier poses potential health threats to animals, humans, and the environment. The interaction between M-NPs and various cellular components, including DNA, multiple proteins, and mitochondria, triggers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), influencing several cellular activities. These interactions have been linked to various effects, such as protein alterations, the buildup of M-NPs in the Golgi apparatus, heightened lysosomal hydrolases, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, cell membrane impairment, cytoplasmic disruption, and fluctuations in ATP levels. Despite the evident advantages M-NPs offer in diverse applications, gaps in understanding their biocompatibility and toxicity necessitate further research. This review provides an updated assessment of M-NPs' pros and cons across different applications, emphasizing associated hazards and potential toxicity. To ensure the responsible and safe use of M-NPs, comprehensive research is conducted to fully grasp the potential impact of these nanoparticles on both human health and the environment. By delving into their intricate interactions with biological systems, we can navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the benefits of M-NPs and minimizing potential risks. Further exploration will pave the way for informed decision-making, leading to the conscientious development of these nanomaterials and safeguarding the well-being of society and the environment.

Supplementing broiler diets with bacterial selenium nanoparticles enhancing performance, carcass traits, blood indices, antioxidant status, and caecal microbiota of Eimeria tenella-infected broiler chickens

Nanomedicine is a critical therapeutic approach for treating most poultry illnesses, particularly parasitic infections. Coccidiosis is a severe protozoan infection affecting poultry; the emergence of drug-resistant Eimeria strains demands the development of new, safe therapies. Consequently, the objective of this work was to investigate the efficacy of the biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by Paenibacillus polymyxa (P. polymyxa) against Eimeria tenella (E. tenella) experimental infection in broiler chickens. The prepared SeNPs absorbed the UV at 270 nm were spherical with a size of 26 nm, and had a surface negative charge of -25 mV. One hundred and fifty, 1-day-old male broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 5 groups (30 birds/group with triplicates each) as follows: T1: negative control (noninfected and nontreated with SeNPs); T2: delivered SeNPs (500 µg/kg diet) for 35 successive days, T3: E. tenella-infected (positive control birds), T4: E. tenella-infected and treated with SeNPs (500 µg/kg diet) and T5: E. tenella-infected chicks and treated with anticoccidial agent (sulfadimidine, 16% solution 8 mL/L of drinking water) for 5 successive days. At 14 d of age, each bird in infected groups was orally treated with 3 × 103 sporulated oocyst of E. tenella. SeNPs considerably decreased the number of oocysts in broiler feces compared to positive control and anticoccidial drug, followed by a substantial reduction of parasite phase count in the cecum (15, 10, and 8 for meronts, gamonts, and developing oocysts) when compared with positive control birds. The Eimeria experimental infection lowered the activity of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH) while increasing the stress parameters nitric oxide (NO) and malonaldehyde (MDA). Moreover, the production of proinflammatory (TNF-α and IL-6) and apoptotic genes (BcL2 and Cas-3) were significantly elevated. Administrating SeNPs to chicks significantly decreased oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic markers in the cecum tissue. Therefore, growth performance, carcass weights, antioxidant enzymes, and blood properties of infected chicks were enhanced. The findings compared the protecting role of Se-nanoparticles against cecum damages in E. tenella-infected broilers.

Recent Updates on Multifunctional Nanomaterials as Antipathogens in Humans and Livestock: Classification, Application, Mode of Action, and Challenges

Pathogens cause infections and millions of deaths globally, while antipathogens are drugs or treatments designed to combat them. To date, multifunctional nanomaterials (NMs), such as organic, inorganic, and nanocomposites, have attracted significant attention by transforming antipathogen livelihoods. They are very small in size so can quickly pass through the walls of bacterial, fungal, or parasitic cells and viral particles to perform their antipathogenic activity. They are more reactive and have a high band gap, making them more effective than traditional medications. Moreover, due to some pathogen's resistance to currently available medications, the antipathogen performance of NMs is becoming crucial. Additionally, due to their prospective properties and administration methods, NMs are eventually chosen for cutting-edge applications and therapies, including drug administration and diagnostic tools for antipathogens. Herein, NMs have significant characteristics that can facilitate identifying and eliminating pathogens in real-time. This mini-review analyzes multifunctional NMs as antimicrobial tools and investigates their mode of action. We also discussed the challenges that need to be solved for the utilization of NMs as antipathogens.

Meeting Contemporary Challenges: Development of Nanomaterials for Veterinary Medicine

In recent decades, nanotechnology has been rapidly advancing in various fields of human activity, including veterinary medicine. The review presents up-to-date information on recent advancements in nanotechnology in the field and an overview of the types of nanoparticles used in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, their characteristics, and their areas of application. Currently, a wide range of nanomaterials has been implemented into veterinary practice, including pharmaceuticals, diagnostic devices, feed additives, and vaccines. The application of nanoformulations gave rise to innovative strategies in the treatment of animal diseases. For example, antibiotics delivered on nanoplatforms demonstrated higher efficacy and lower toxicity and dosage requirements when compared to conventional pharmaceuticals, providing a possibility to solve antibiotic resistance issues. Nanoparticle-based drugs showed promising results in the treatment of animal parasitoses and neoplastic diseases. However, the latter area is currently more developed in human medicine. Owing to the size compatibility, nanomaterials have been applied as gene delivery vectors in veterinary gene therapy. Veterinary medicine is at the forefront of the development of innovative nanovaccines inducing both humoral and cellular immune responses. The paper provides a brief overview of current topics in nanomaterial safety, potential risks associated with the use of nanomaterials, and relevant regulatory aspects.

Nanotechnology innovations for increasing the productivity of poultry and the prospective of nanobiosensors

Nanotechnology is an innovative, promising technology with a great scope of applications and socioeconomic potential in the poultry industry sector. Nanoparticles (NPs) show the advantages of high absorption and bioavailability with more effective delivery to the target tissue than their bulk particles. Various nanomaterials are available in different forms, sizes, shapes, applications, surface modifications, charges and natures. Nanoparticles can be utilised in the delivery of medicines, targeting them to their right effective site in the body and, at the same time, decreasing their toxicity and side effects. Furthermore, nanotechnology can be beneficial in the diagnosis of diseases and prevention of them and in enhancing the quality of animal products. There are different mechanisms through which NPs could exert their action. Despite the vast benefits of NPs in poultry production, some concerns about their safety and hazardous effects should be considered. Therefore, this review article focuses on NPs' types, manufacture, mechanism of action and applications regarding safety and hazard impact.

WITHDRAWN: Unlimited possibilities to use Сladophora (Chlorophyta, Ulvophyceae, Cladophorales) biomass in agriculture and aquaculture with profit for the environment and humanity

This article has been withdrawn: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been withdrawn at the request of the Publisher for legal reasons related to Elsevier's policy on Geographic Sanctions (https://www.elsevier.com/about/policies/trade-sanctions).

ZnO-NPs alleviate aflatoxin B1-induced hepatoxicity in ducklings by promoting hepatic metallothionein expression

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is a mycotoxin widely present in animal feed and human food, posing a serious threat to animal and human health. This study was aim to illustrate the mechanism of the protective role of MT against AFB₁-induced hepatotoxicity, as well as to explore the feasibility of enhancing the tolerance of poultry to AFB₁ by upregulating the expression of hepatic MT. After being exposed to AFB₁ (50 ng/kg) primary duckling hepatocytes, the cell viability, the antioxidant index (SOD and GPx) and the mRNA levels of MT downstream genes (PTGR, p53, TrxR, AR and Bcl-2) significantly (p < 0.05) decreased, while the intracellular formation of (AFBO)-DNA adduct content, apoptosis, and MDA content significantly (p < 0.05) increased. Interestingly, overexpression of MT in primary duckling hepatocytes markedly (p < 0.05) reversed the detrimental impact of AFB₁ and increased the expression of MT downstream genes. HepG2 cells were applied to study the mechanism how MT works to relieve the hepatic toxicity of AFB₁. The ZnO-NPs (20 μg/mL) + AFB₁ (20 μg/mL) group significantly (p < 0.05) increased the cell viability, the expression of NRF2, NQO1 and SOD, and expression of MT and MTF-1, as well as significantly (p < 0.05) decreased LDH, ROS and apoptotic rate, comparing with the AFB₁ group. While joint treatment with AFB₁ and ZnO-NPs, the hepatic toxicity exerted by AFB₁ alone was reversed, along with the translocation of MTF-1 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus and upregulated its expression. Duckling trails were further carried out. A total number of 96 1-day-old healthy Cherry Valley commercial ducklings were randomly allocated according to a 2 by 2 factorial arrangement of treatments with the main factors including oral administration of AFB₁ (0 vs. 40 μg/kg) and dietary supplementation of ZnO-NPs (0 vs. 60 mg/kg) for 7 days. It showed that AFB₁ exposure caused body weight loss (p < 0.05), impaired liver structure and failure in hepatic function (activity of ALT, AST and concentration of TP and GLU) (p < 0.05), and decreases in antioxidant capacity(activity of SOD, CAT and concentration of GSH) (p < 0.05), along with the decrease in hepatic concentration of Zn, increase in expression of apoptosis-related genes and protein CAS3 and mRNA Bcl-2 expression (p < 0.05), and suppressed mRNA levels of antioxidant-related genes MT, SOD1, NRF2, and NQO1 (p < 0.05). In accordance with the cell test, dietary supplementation with ZnO-NPs mitigated the toxicity exerted by AFB₁. In conclusion, ZnO-NPs has the protective effects against AFB₁-induced hepatocyte injury by activating the expression of MTF-1 and the ectopic induction of MT expression, providing detailed information on the detoxification ability of MT on AFB₁.

Biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles to rescue coccidiosis-mediated oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in the jejunum of mice

One of the most crucial approaches for treating human diseases, particularly parasite infections, is nanomedicine. One of the most significant protozoan diseases that impact farm and domestic animals is coccidiosis. While, amprolium is one of the traditional anticoccidial medication, the advent of drug-resistant strains of Eimeria necessitates the development of novel treatments. The goal of the current investigation was to determine whether biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (Bio-SeNPs) using Azadirachta indica leaves extract might treat mice with Eimeria papillata infection in the jejunal tissue. Five groups of seven mice each were used, as follows: Group 1: Non-infected-non-treated (negative control). Group 2: Non-infected treated group with Bio-SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg of body weight). Groups 3-5 were orally inoculated with 1×10³ sporulated oocysts of E. papillata. Group 3: Infected-non-treated (positive control). Group 4: Infected and treated group with Bio-SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg). Group 5: Infected and treated group with the Amprolium. Groups 4 and 5 daily received oral administration (for 5 days) of Bio-SeNPs and anticoccidial medication, respectively, after infection. Bio-SeNPs caused a considerable reduction in oocyst output in mice feces (97.21%). This was also accompanied by a significant reduction in the number of developmental parasitic stages in the jejunal tissues. Glutathione reduced (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were dramatically reduced by the Eimeria parasite, whereas, nitric oxide (NO) and malonaldehyde (MDA) levels were markedly elevated. The amount of goblet cells and MUC2 gene expression were used as apoptotic indicators, and both were considerably downregulated by infection. However, infection markedly increased the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and the apoptotic genes (Caspase-3 and BCL2). Bio-SeNPs were administrated to mice to drastically lower body weight, oxidative stress, and inflammatory and apoptotic indicators in the jejunal tissue. Our research thus showed the involvement of Bio-SeNPs in protecting mice with E. papillata infections against jejunal damage.

Sleep matters: Neurodegeneration spectrum heterogeneity, combustion and friction ultrafine particles, industrial nanoparticle pollution, and sleep disorders-Denial is not an option

Sustained exposures to ubiquitous outdoor/indoor fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), including combustion and friction ultrafine PM (UFPM) and industrial nanoparticles (NPs) starting in utero, are linked to early pediatric and young adulthood aberrant neural protein accumulation, including hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau), beta-amyloid (Aβ_{1 - 42}), α-synuclein (α syn) and TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), hallmarks of Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). UFPM from anthropogenic and natural sources and NPs enter the brain through the nasal/olfactory pathway, lung, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, and placental barriers. On a global scale, the most important sources of outdoor UFPM are motor traffic emissions. This study focuses on the neuropathology heterogeneity and overlap of AD, PD, FTLD, and ALS in older adults, their similarities with the neuropathology of young, highly exposed urbanites, and their strong link with sleep disorders. Critical information includes how this UFPM and NPs cross all biological barriers, interact with brain soluble proteins and key organelles, and result in the oxidative, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondrial stress, neuroinflammation, DNA damage, protein aggregation and misfolding, and faulty complex protein quality control. The brain toxicity of UFPM and NPs makes them powerful candidates for early development and progression of fatal common neurodegenerative diseases, all having sleep disturbances. A detailed residential history, proximity to high-traffic roads, occupational histories, exposures to high-emission sources (i.e., factories, burning pits, forest fires, and airports), indoor PM sources (tobacco, wood burning in winter, cooking fumes, and microplastics in house dust), and consumption of industrial NPs, along with neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric histories, are critical. Environmental pollution is a ubiquitous, early, and cumulative risk factor for neurodegeneration and sleep disorders. Prevention of deadly neurological diseases associated with air pollution should be a public health priority.

Metallic and non-metallic nanoparticles from plant, animal, and fisheries wastes: potential and valorization for application in agriculture

Global agriculture is facing tremendous challenges due to climate change. The most predominant amongst these challenges are abiotic and biotic stresses caused by increased incidences of temperature extremes, drought, unseasonal flooding, and pathogens. These threats, mostly due to anthropogenic activities, resulted in severe challenges to crop and livestock production leading to substantial economic losses. It is essential to develop environmentally viable and cost-effective green processes to alleviate these stresses in the crops, livestock, and fisheries. The application of nanomaterials in farming practice to minimize nutrient losses, pest management, and enhance stress resistance capacity is of supreme importance. This paper explores innovative methods for synthesizing metallic and non-metallic nanoparticles using plants, animals, and fisheries wastes and their valorization to mitigate abiotic and biotic stresses and input use efficiency in climate-smart and stress-resilient agriculture including crop plants, livestock, and fisheries.