Oxidative Stress in the Developing Rat Brain due to Production of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species

Advanced age and female sex protect cerebral arteries from mitochondrial depolarization and apoptosis during acute oxidative stress

Aging increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) which can impair vascular function and contribute to brain injury. However, aging can also promote resilience to acute oxidative stress. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that advanced age protects smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) of posterior cerebral arteries (PCAs; diameter, ∼80 μm) during exposure to H2O2. PCAs from young (4-6 months) and old (20-26 months) male and female C57BL/6 mice were isolated and pressurized (~70 mm Hg) to evaluate cell death, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), ROS production, and [Ca2+]i in response to H2O2 (200 μM, 50 min). SMC death and ΔΨm depolarization were greater in PCAs from males vs. females. Aging increased ROS in PCAs from both sexes but increased SMC resilience to death only in males. Inhibiting TRPV4 channels with HC-067047 (1 μM) or Src kinases with SU6656 (10 μM) reduced Ca2+ entry and SMC death to H2O2 most effectively in PCAs from young males. Activating TRPV4 channels with GSK1016790A (50 nM) evoked greater Ca2+ influx in SMCs and ECs of PCAs from young vs. old mice but did not induce cell death. However, when combined with H2O2, TRPV4 activation exacerbated EC death. Activating Src kinases with spermidine (100 μM) increased Ca2+ influx in PCAs from males vs. females with minimal cell death. We conclude that in males, chronic oxidative stress during aging increases the resilience of cerebral arteries, which contrasts with inherent protection in females. Findings implicate TRP channels and Src kinases as targets to limit vascular damage to acute oxidative injury.

FRET Luminescent Probe for the Ratiometric Imaging of Peroxynitrite in Rat Brain Models of Epilepsy-Based on Organic Dye-Conjugated Iridium(III) Complex

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures globally, imposing a substantial burden on patients and their families. The pathological role of peroxynitrite (ONOO-), which can trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal hyperexcitability, is critical in epilepsy. However, the development of reliable, in situ, and real-time optical imaging tools to detect ONOO- in the brain encounters some challenges related to the depth of tissue penetration, background interference, optical bleaching, and spectral overlapping. To address these limitations, we present Ir-CBM, a new one-photon and two-photon excitable and long-lived ratiometric luminescent probe designed specifically for precise detection of ONOO- in epilepsy-based on the Förster resonance energy transfer mechanism by combining an iridium(III) complex with an organic fluorophore. Ir-CBM possesses the advantages of rapid response, one-/two-photon excitation, and ratiometric luminescent imaging for monitoring the cellular levels of ONOO- and evaluating the effects of different therapeutic drugs on ONOO- in the brain of an epilepsy model rat. The development and utilization of Ir-CBM offer valuable insights into the design of ratiometric luminescent probes. Furthermore, Ir-CBM serves as a rapid imaging and screening tool for antiepileptic drugs, thereby accelerating the exploration of novel antiepileptic drug screening and improving preventive and therapeutic strategies in epilepsy research.

Smoking and progressive retinal nerve fibre layer thinning in glaucoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To investigate the relationship between smoking and smoking intensity, and the rate of retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thinning in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).

METHODS

In this longitudinal study, patients with POAG who had at least 3 years of follow-up with a minimum of 5 visits of optical coherence tomography (OCT) were enrolled. The smoking intensity was calculated as the pack-year at the baseline OCT. Univariable and multivariable linear mixed models were used to determine the effect of each parameter on the rates of RNFL thinning over time. Non-linear least-squares estimation with piecewise regression model was used to investigate the cut-off point for the relationship between circumpapillary RNFL thinning and smoking intensity.

RESULTS

A total of 466 eyes of 314 patients were included over the mean (95% CI) follow-up of 6.6 (6.4 to 6.7) years. Of the 314 patients, 121 (39%) had reported any history of smoking. Greater smoking intensity was associated with faster RNFL thinning (-0.06 (95% CI -0.11 to 0.00) µm/year per 10 pack-year higher; p=0.031) after adjusted for confounding factors. RNFL thinning became significantly faster when smoking intensity was >8 pack-year.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking intensity is associated with faster rates of RNFL thinning. Evaluation of smoking intensity might add information to the assessment of risk of glaucoma progression. Future studies are required to explore if withdrawing smoking as a modifiable risk factor can decrease progression in patients with glaucoma.

Role of Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Reprogramming of Brain Cancer

Brain cancer is known as one of the deadliest cancers globally. One of the causative factors is the imbalance between oxidative and antioxidant activities in the body, which is referred to as oxidative stress (OS). As part of regular metabolism, oxygen is reduced by electrons, resulting in the creation of numerous reactive oxygen species (ROS). Inflammation is intricately associated with the generation of OS, leading to the increased production and accumulation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). Glioma stands out as one of the most common malignant tumors affecting the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by changes in the redox balance. Brain cancer cells exhibit inherent resistance to most conventional treatments, primarily due to the distinctive tumor microenvironment. Oxidative stress (OS) plays a crucial role in the development of various brain-related malignancies, such as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and medulloblastoma, where OS significantly disrupts the normal homeostasis of the brain. In this review, we provide in-depth descriptions of prospective targets and therapeutics, along with an assessment of OS and its impact on brain cancer metabolism. We also discuss targeted therapies.

High level of lactate dehydrogenase and ischaemia-reperfusion injury regulate the multiple organ dysfunction in patients with COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Multiple organ damage has been observed in patients with COVID-19, but the exact pathway is not known. Vital organs of the human body may get affected after replication of SARS-CoV-2, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and brain. It triggers severe inflammation and impairs the function of two or more organ systems. Ischaemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is a phenomenon that can have disastrous effects on the human body.

METHODS

In this study, we analysed the laboratory data of 7052 hospitalised patients with COVID-19 including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). A total of 66.4% patients were men and 33.6% were women, which indicated gender difference as a prominent factor to be considered.

RESULTS

Our data showed high levels of inflammation and elevated markers of tissue injury from multiple organs C reactive protein, white blood cell count, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase and LDH. The number of red blood cells, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit were lower than normal which indicated a reduction in oxygen supply and anaemia.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of these results, we proposed a model linking IR injury to multiple organ damage by SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 may cause a reduction in oxygen towards an organ, which leads to IR injury.

Mitochondria play an essential role in the trajectory of adolescent neurodevelopment and behavior in adulthood: evidence from a schizophrenia rat model

Ample evidence implicate mitochondria in early brain development. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is only circumstantial data for mitochondria involvement in late brain development occurring through adolescence, a critical period in the pathogenesis of various psychiatric disorders, specifically schizophrenia. In schizophrenia, neurodevelopmental abnormalities and mitochondrial dysfunction has been repeatedly reported. Here we show a causal link between mitochondrial transplantation in adolescence and brain functioning in adulthood. We show that transplantation of allogenic healthy mitochondria into the medial prefrontal cortex of adolescent rats was beneficial in a rat model of schizophrenia, while detrimental in healthy control rats. Specifically, disparate initial changes in mitochondrial function and inflammatory response were associated with opposite long-lasting changes in proteome, neurotransmitter turnover, neuronal sprouting and behavior in adulthood. A similar inverse shift in mitochondrial function was also observed in human lymphoblastoid cells deived from schizophrenia patients and healthy subjects due to the interference of the transplanted mitochondria with their intrinsic mitochondrial state. This study provides fundamental insights into the essential role of adolescent mitochondrial homeostasis in the development of normal functioning adult brain. In addition, it supports a therapeutic potential for mitochondria manipulation in adolescence in disorders with neurodevelopmental and bioenergetic deficits, such as schizophrenia, yet emphasizes the need to monitor individuals' state including their mitochondrial function and immune response, prior to intervention.

JMJD3 Is Required for Acute Pancreatitis and Pancreatitis-Associated Lung Injury

Acute pancreatitis (AP) can be complicated by inflammatory disorders of remote organs, such as lung injury, in which Jumonji domain-containing protein 3 (JMJD3) plays a vital role in proinflammatory responses. Currently, we found that JMJD3 expression was upregulated in the pancreas and lung in an AP male mouse model, which was also confirmed in AP patients. Further experiments revealed that the upregulation of JMJD3 and proinflammatory effects were possibly exerted by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or oxidized-mtDNA from tissue injury caused by AP. The release of mtDNA and oxidized-mtDNA contributed to the infiltration of inflammatory monocytes in lung injury through the stimulator of IFN genes (STING)/TLR9-NF-κB-JMJD3-TNF-α pathway. The inhibition of JMJD3 or utilization of Jmjd3-cKO mice significantly alleviated pulmonary inflammation induced by AP. Blocking mtDNA oxidation or knocking down the TLR9/STING pathway effectively alleviated inflammation. Therefore, inhibition of JMJD3 or STING/TLR9 pathway blockage might be a potential therapeutic strategy to treat AP and the associated lung injury.

Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Common Duckweed Lemna minor after the Exposure to Tetracycline and the Recovery from This Stress

In this study, the ability of Lemna minor L. to recover to normal growth, after being degraded in a tetracycline-containing medium, was extensively investigated. The plants were exposed to tetracycline (TC) at concentrations of 1, 2.5, and 10 mM. Subsequently, their physiological status was analysed against the following criteria: rate of plant growth; free radical accumulation; antioxidant enzyme activity; chlorophyll content; HSP70 protein content; cell membrane permeability, and mitochondrial activity. The study showed that duckweed can considerably recover from the damage caused by antibiotics, within a week of cessation of stress. Of the plant properties analysed, mitochondrial activity was the most sensitive to antibiotic-induced disturbances. After transferring the plants to a tetracycline-free medium, all plant parameters improved significantly, except for the mitochondrial activity in the plants grown on the medium containing the highest dose of tetracycline. In the plants treated with this antibiotic at the concentration of 10 mM, the proportion of dead mitochondria increased and was as high as 93% after one week from the beginning of the recovery phase, even after the transfer to the tetracycline-free medium.

Association between dietary antioxidant vitamins intake and homocysteine levels in middle-aged and older adults with hypertension: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) has been implicated in the development of cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to assess the relationship of dietary antioxidant vitamins intake with tHcy levels in middle-aged and older adults with hypertension.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING

The survey was conducted in the Nanshan district of Shenzhen.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1465 middle-aged and older adults with hypertension were included between July and September of 2013.

MEASUREMENTS

Hyperhomocysteinaemia (HHcy) was defined as tHcy ≥15 µmol/L. Some dietary antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C (VC) and vitamin E (VE), carotenes, retinol, lutein) intake was estimated using the Food Frequency Questionnaire. Sociodemographic and potential covariates were evaluated through questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and blood tests. The association between dietary intakes of antioxidant vitamins and tHcy concentration were evaluated by multiple linear regression analyses after napierian logarithm transformed. Multiple logistic regression models were further used to determine ORs and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

The β (95% CIs) of VC intake and tHcy was -0.050 (-0.084 to -0.016). Compared with the lowest quartile in the fully adjusted model, the ORs (95% CIs) for HHcy levels across quartiles of dietary VC intake were 0.82 (0.57 to 1.16), 0.49 (0.33 to 0.74) and 0.40 (0.22 to 0.74) (p for trend=0.001). The β (95% CIs) of retinol intake and tHcy was -0.021 (-0.041 to -0.002) and the ORs (95% CIs) in the third quartile of retinol intake was 0.61 (0.42 to 0.86), while the effect for the highest quartile was not significant (p for trend=0.951). No significant association was observed between dietary VE, carotenes and lutein intake and HHcy.

CONCLUSIONS

A linear inverse association between dietary VC intake and HHcy prevalence, and an L-shaped association between dietary retinol intake and HHcy prevalence were found in Chinese middle-aged and older adults with hypertension.

Altered redox homeostasis in steroid-depleted follicles attenuates hCG regulation of follicular events: Cross-talk between endocrine and IGF axis in maturing oocytes

Steroids and insulin-like growth factors (Igfs) are indispensable for folliculogenesis and reproductive fitness in the vertebrate ovary. The intrafollicular redox balance is also of immense importance for ovarian follicles wherein low levels of ROS are being utilized for cell signalling and regulation of gene expression; its excess may interfere with normal physiological processes leading to ovotoxicity. However, the functional relevance of ovarian steroidogenesis in maintaining the follicular microenvironment with coordinated redox homeostasis and intra-ovarian growth factors axis is relatively less understood. Using zebrafish full-grown (FG) ovarian follicles in vitro, our study shows that blocking steroid biosynthesis with anti-steroidal drugs, DL-aminoglutethimide (AG) or Trilostane (Trilo), prevents hCG (LH analogue)-induced StAR expression concomitant with a robust increase in intrafollicular ROS levels. Congruent with heightened intracellular levels of superoxide anions (O₂^•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), priming with AG or Trilo abrogates the transcript abundance of major antioxidant enzyme genes (SOD1, SOD2, and CAT) in hCG-stimulated follicles. Significantly, blocking steroidogenesis attenuates transcript abundance of HSP70 but elevates NOX4 expression potentially through ERα-mediated pathway. Importantly, disrupted redox balance in AG/Trilo pre-incubated FG follicles negatively impacts hCG-mediated activation of PKA/CREB signaling and transcriptional activation of igf ligands. Elevated ROS attenuation of antioxidant defense parameters and impaired endocrine and autocrine/paracrine homeostasis converge upon reduced p34cdc2 (Thr-161) phosphorylation, a reliable marker for MPF activation, and resumption of meiotic G2-M1 transition in hCG-treated follicles. Collectively, altered redox homeostasis in steroid-depleted follicles has a significant negative influence on GTH (LH) regulation of follicular events, specifically Igf synthesis, meiotic maturational competence and ovarian fitness.

Maternal Particulate Matter Exposure Impairs Lung Health and Is Associated with Mitochondrial Damage

Relatively little is known about the transgenerational effects of chronic maternal exposure to low-level traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) on the offspring lung health, nor are the effects of removing such exposure before pregnancy. Female BALB/c mice were exposed to PM_2.5 (PM_2.5, 5 µg/day) for 6 weeks before mating and during gestation and lactation; in a subgroup, PM was removed when mating started to model mothers moving to cleaner areas during pregnancy to protect their unborn child (Pre-exposure). Lung pathology was characterised in both dams and offspring. A subcohort of female offspring was also exposed to ovalbumin to model allergic airways disease. PM_2.5 and Pre-exposure dams exhibited airways hyper-responsiveness (AHR) with mucus hypersecretion, increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial dysfunction in the lungs. Female offspring from PM_2.5 and Pre-exposure dams displayed AHR with increased lung inflammation and mitochondrial ROS production, while males only displayed increased lung inflammation. After the ovalbumin challenge, AHR was increased in female offspring from PM_2.5 dams compared with those from control dams. Using an in vitro model, the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoQ reversed mitochondrial dysfunction by PM stimulation, suggesting that the lung pathology in offspring is driven by dysfunctional mitochondria. In conclusion, chronic exposure to low doses of PM_2.5 exerted transgenerational impairment on lung health.

Brain organoids: A promising model to assess oxidative stress-induced central nervous system damage

Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the most significant propagators of systemic damage with implications for widespread pathologies such as vascular disease, accelerated aging, degenerative disease, inflammation, and traumatic injury. OS can be induced by numerous factors such as environmental conditions, lifestyle choices, disease states, and genetic susceptibility. It is tied to the accumulation of free radicals, mitochondrial dysfunction, and insufficient antioxidant protection, which leads to cell aging and tissue degeneration over time. Unregulated systemic increase in reactive species, which contain harmful free radicals, can lead to diverse tissue-specific OS responses and disease. Studies of OS in the brain, for example, have demonstrated how this state contributes to neurodegeneration and altered neural plasticity. As the worldwide life expectancy has increased over the last few decades, the prevalence of OS-related diseases resulting from age-associated progressive tissue degeneration. Unfortunately, vital translational research studies designed to identify and target disease biomarkers in human patients have been impeded by many factors (e.g., limited access to human brain tissue for research purposes and poor translation of experimental models). In recent years, stem cell-derived three-dimensional tissue cultures known as "brain organoids" have taken the spotlight as a novel model for studying central nervous system (CNS) diseases. In this review, we discuss the potential of brain organoids to model the responses of human neural cells to OS, noting current and prospective limitations. Overall, brain organoids show promise as an innovative translational model to study CNS susceptibility to OS and elucidate the pathophysiology of the aging brain.

Histopathological study on neuroapoptotic alterations induced by etomidate in rat hippocampus

In human, there is substantial neurogenesis in the hippocampus that is implicated in memory formation and learning. These new-born neurons can be affected by neuropathological conditions. Anesthesia and surgical procedures are associated with postoperative cognitive changes particularly, impaired memory and learning. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the possible neurodegenerative effects of etomidate in rat hippocampus. Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 250 ± 30 g were randomly divided into 3 groups: 1) Etomidate group; four times 20 mg intraperitoneal injection with 1-h intervals, 2) Control group; the equal volume of normal saline, and 3) Normal group; without any intervention. 6 h after the last injection, the brains were removed and processed according to routine histological methods. TUNEL assay and toluidine blue staining were performed to evaluate neuro-histopathological changes in different regions of hippocampus. Our results showed that the number of TUNEL positive cells and dark neurons (DNs) in etomidate group were significantly higher in the CA1, CA2, CA3, and dentate gyrus (DG) of hippocampus compared with the control and normal groups (p < 0.05). While, there was no significant difference between the various regions of hippocampus in control and normal groups. Our findings showed that etomidate can increase apoptotic cells and dark neurons induction in different regions of hippocampus mainly in DG.

Investigation of the Pharmacological Properties of Lepidagathis hyalina Nees through Experimental Approaches

Lepidagathis hyalina Nees is used locally in Ayurvedic medicine to treat coughs and cardiovascular diseases. This study explored its pharmacological potential through in vivo and in vitro approaches for the metabolites extracted (methanolic) from the stems of L. hyalina. A qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of numerous secondary metabolites. The methanol extract of L. hyalina stems (MELHS) showed a strong antioxidative activity in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reducing power assays, and in the quantitative (phenolic and flavonoid) assay. Clot lysis and brine shrimp lethality bioassays were applied to investigate the thrombolytic and cytotoxic activities, respectively. MELHS exhibited an expressive percentage of clot lysis (33.98%) with a moderately toxic (115.11 μg/mL) effect. The in vivo anxiolytic activity was studied by an elevated plus maze test, whereas the antidepressant activity was examined by a tail suspension test and forced swimming test. During the anxiolytic evaluation, MELHS exhibited a significant dose-dependent reduction of anxiety, in which the 400 mg/kg dose of the extract showed 78.77 ± 4.42% time spent in the open arm in the elevated plus maze test. In addition, MELHS demonstrated dose-dependent and significant activities in the tail suspension test and forced swimming test, whereas the 400 mg/kg dose of the extract showed 87.67 ± 6.40% and 83.33 ± 6.39% inhibition of immobile time, respectively. Therefore, the current study suggests that L. hyalina could be a potential source of anti-oxidative, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, anxiolytic, and antidepressant agents. Further study is needed to determine the mechanism behind the bioactivities.

A Method for Analysis of Nitrotyrosine-Containing Proteins by Immunoblotting Coupled with Mass Spectrometry

Nitrotyrosine formation is caused by presence of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Nitration is a very selective process leading to specific modification of only a few tyrosines in protein molecule. 2D electrophoresis and western blotting techniques coupled with mass spectrometry are common methods used in analysis of proteome. Here we describe protocol for analysis of peroxynitrite-induced protein nitration in isolated mitochondria. Mitochondrial proteins are separated by 2D electrophoresis and transferred to nitrocellulose membrane. Membranes are then incubated with antibodies against nitrotyrosine. Positive spots are compared with corresponding Coomassie-stained gels, and protein nitration is confirmed with mass spectrometry techniques.

Pharmacological and computer-aided studies provide new insights into Millettia peguensis Ali (Fabaceae)

Millettia peguensis, popular for its ethnopharmacological uses, was employed to evaluate its different pharmacological properties in this study. The analgesic studies of the plant have been performed by acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin-induced licking tests respectively, whereas the antidiarrheal experiment was done by castor oil-induced diarrheal test. Besides, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, thrombolytic evaluations were performed by DPPH scavenging with phenol content determination, brine shrimp lethality, disc diffusion and clot lysis methods respectively. Moreover, in silico study of the phytoconstituents was carried out by molecular docking and ADME/T analysis.

The methanol extract of Millettia peguensis (MEMP) revealed significant biological activity in the analgesic and antidiarrheal test (p < 0.001) compared to the standards. Antioxidant assay displayed promising IC₅₀ values (15.96 μg/mL) with the total phenol content (65.27 ± 1.24 mg GAE/g). In the cytotoxicity study, the LC₅₀ value was found to be 1.094 μg/mL. Besides, MEMP was highly sensitive to the bacteria but less liable to clot lysis. Furthermore, phytoconstituents exposed potential binding affinity towards the selected receptors, whereas the ADME/T properties indicated the drug likeliness of the plant. The outcomes of these findings suggest the therapeutic potential of this plant against pain, diarrhea, inflammation, and tissue toxicity.

Postnatal Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Treatments Prevent Early Ketamine-Induced Cortical Dysfunctions in Adult Mice

Early brain insult, interfering with its maturation, may result in psychotic-like disturbances in adult life. Redox dysfunctions and neuroinflammation contribute to long-term psychiatric consequences due to neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Here, we investigated the effects of early pharmacological modulation of the redox and inflammatory states, through celastrol, and indomethacin administration, on reactive oxygen species (ROS) amount, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase 1, SOD1, glutathione, GSH, and catalase, CAT), as well as of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, TNF-α, interleukin-6, IL-6, and interleukin-1 beta, IL-1β), in the prefrontal cortex of adult mice exposed to a neurotoxic insult, i.e. ketamine administration, in postnatal life. Early celastrol or indomethacin prevented ketamine-induced elevations in cortical ROS production. MDA levels in ketamine-treated mice, also administered with celastrol, were comparable with the control ones. Indomethacin also prevented the increase in lipid peroxidation following early ketamine administration. Whereas no significant differences were detected in SOD1, GSH, and CAT levels between ketamine and saline-administered mice, celastrol elevated the cortical amount of these antioxidant enzymes and the same effect was induced by indomethacin per se. Both celastrol and indomethacin prevented ketamine-induced enhancement in TNF-α and IL-1β levels, however, they had no effects on increased IL-6 amount resulting from ketamine exposure in postnatal life. In conclusion, our data suggest that an early increase in cortical ROS scavenging and reduction of lipid peroxidation, via the enhancement of antioxidant defense, together with inhibition of neuroinflammation, may represent a therapeutic opportunity against psychotic-like disturbances resulting, later in life, from the effects of a neurotoxic insult on the developing brain.

Parental psychological distress during pregnancy and the risk of childhood lower lung function and asthma: a population-based prospective cohort study

Background

Although maternal psychological distress during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of respiratory morbidity in preschool children, it is unknown whether this association persists into later childhood.

Objective

To examine the association between parental psychological distress during pregnancy and lung function and asthma in children of school age.

Methods

This study of 4231 children was embedded in a population-based prospective cohort. Parental psychological distress was assessed by the Brief Symptom Inventory during and 3 years after pregnancy, and in mothers also at 2 and 6 months after pregnancy. At age 10 years, lung function was obtained by spirometry and asthma by questionnaire.

Results

The prevalence of asthma was 5.9%. Maternal overall psychological distress during pregnancy was associated with a lower forced vital capacity (FVC) (z-score difference −0.10 (95% CI −0.20 to –0.01) per 1-unit increase), maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy with a lower forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV₁) and FVC (−0.13 (95% CI −0.24 to –0.01) and −0.13 (95% CI −0.24 to –0.02) when using clinical cut-offs) in their children. All maternal psychological distress measures during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of asthma (range OR: 1.46 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.90) to 1.91 (95% CI 1.26 to 2.91)). Additional adjustment for paternal psychological distress during pregnancy and parental psychological distress after pregnancy did not materially change the associations. Paternal psychological distress during pregnancy was not associated with childhood respiratory morbidity.

Conclusion

Maternal, but not paternal, psychological distress during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of asthma and partly lower lung function in children. This suggests intrauterine programming for the risk of later-life respiratory disease.

CdSe- Reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite toxicity alleviation via V2O5 shell formation over CdSe core: in vivo and in vitro studies

The present article demonstrates the synthesis of the nanocomposite of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with CdSe and CdSe/V₂O₅ core/shell quantum dots by a two-step facile synthesis approach and subsequently studies their relative biocompatibility in different cells. Various characterization techniques have been applied including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), an x-ray diffractometer (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy to confirm the successful formation of CdSe-rGO and CdSe/V₂O₅-rGO nanocomposites. The average sizes of CdSe and CdSe/V₂O₅ QDs have found to be ∼3 and 5.5 nm, respectively with a good dispersion over the surface of rGO nanosheets. A crystal phase change has occurred during the formation of the V₂O₅ shell over the surface of CdSe QDs and confirmed through XRD. Raman spectroscopy has shown some useful insight of the surface state of CdSe and consequent changes in the surface with V₂O₅ shell growth. Further, MTT and cell growth assays have been performed to analyze their biocompatibility in A549 and Hela cells with various concentrations of as-synthesized materials. Our results demonstrate the toxicity of CdSe-rGO nanocomposite to be substantially reduced by the growth of the V₂O₅ shell. The in vivo studies in Drosophila show a remarkable decrease in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis levels for a CdSe/V₂O₅-rGO composite as compared to a CdSe-rGO nanocomposite, which paves a promising pathway for the CdSe/V₂O₅-rGO nanocomposite to be used as an efficient biocompatible material.

SIRT1-dependent mechanisms and effects of resveratrol for amelioration of muscle wasting in NASH mice

Background

In non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), muscle wasting was an aggravating factor for the progression of hepatic steatosis. This study explores the potential benefits of chronic treatment with resveratrol, a strong activator of SIRT1 on the muscle wasting of NASH mice.

Methods

In vivo and in vitro study, we evaluate the SIRT1-dependent mechanisms and effects of resveratrol administration for 6 weeks with high-fat-methionine and choline deficient diet-induced NASH mice and palmitate-pretreated C2C12 myoblast cells.

Results

Resveratrol treatment improved grip strength and muscle mass of limbs, increased running distance and time on exercise wheels in NASH mice. There is a negative correlation between muscular SIRT1 activity and 3-nitrotyrosine levels of NASH and NASH-resv mice. The SIRT1-dependent effect of muscle wasting was associated with the suppression of oxidative stress, upregulation of antioxidants, inhibition of protein degradation, activation of autophagy, suppression of apoptotic activity, upregulation of lipolytic genes and the reduction of fatty infiltration in limb muscles of NASH mice. In vitro, resveratrol alleviated palmitate acid-induced oxidative stress, lipid deposition, autophagy dysfunction, apoptotic signals, and subsequently reduced fusion index and myotube formation of C2C12 cells. The beneficial effects of resveratrol were abolished by EX527.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that chronic resveratrol treatment is a potential strategy for amelioration of hepatic steatosis and muscle wasting in NASH mouse model.

Increased iNOS and Nitrosative Stress in Dopaminergic Neurons of MDMA-Exposed Rats

Several mechanisms underlying 3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) neurotoxicity have been proposed, including neurochemical alterations and excitotoxicity mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). However, ROS, NO, and RNS sources in the brain are not fully known. We aimed to investigate possible alterations in the expression of the ROS producer NOX enzymes (NOX2, NOX1, and NOX4), NO generators (iNOS, eNOS, and nNOS), markers of oxidative (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, 8OHdG), and nitrosative (3-nitrotyrosine, NT) stress, as well as the colocalization between cells positive for the dopamine transporter (DT1) and cells expressing the neuronal nuclei (NeuN) marker, in the frontal cortex of rats receiving saline or MDMA, sacrificed 6 h, 16 h, or 24 h after its administration. MDMA did not affect NOX2, NOX1, and NOX4 immunoreactivity, whereas iNOS expression was enhanced. The number of NT-positive cells was increased in MDMA-exposed animals, whereas no differences were detected in 8OHdG expression among experimental groups. MDMA and NT markers colocalized with DT1 positive cells. DT1 immunostaining was found in NeuN-positive stained cells. Virtually no colocalization was observed with microglia and astrocytes. Moreover, MDMA immunostaining was not found in NOX2-positive cells. Our results suggest that iNOS-derived nitrosative stress, but not NOX enzymes, may have a crucial role in the pathogenesis of MDMA-induced neurotoxicity, highlighting the specificity of different enzymatic systems in the development of neuropathological alterations induced by the abuse of this psychoactive compound.

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factors 1 and 2 are able to define the worst prognosis group among high-risk diffuse large B cell lymphomas treated with R-CHOEP

AIMS

Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzymes have previously been shown to have prognostic value and associate with adverse outcome in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 1 (Nrf1) and factor 2 (Nrf2) are among the principal inducers of antioxidant enzyme production. Kelch ECH associating protein 1 (Keap1) is a negative regulator of Nrf2, and BTB (BR-C, ttk and bab) domain and CNC homolog 1 (Bach1) represses the function of both factors. Their significance in DLBCL prognosis is unknown.

METHODS

Diagnostic biopsy samples of 76 patients with high-risk DLBCL were retrospectively stained with immunohistochemistry for Nrf1, Nrf2, Keap1 and Bach1, and correlated with clinical data and outcome.

RESULTS

Nuclear Nrf2 and nuclear Bach1 expression were associated with adverse clinical features (anaemia, advanced stage, high IPI, high risk of neutropaenic infections), whereas cytoplasmic Nrf1 and Nrf2 were associated with favourable clinical presentation (normal haemoglobin level, no B symptoms, limited stage). None of the evaluated factors could predict survival alone. However, when two of the following parameters were combined: high nuclear score of Nrf2, low nuclear score of Nrf1, high cytoplasmic score of Nrf1 and low cytoplasmic score of Keap1 were associated with significantly worse overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Nrf1 and Nrf2 are relevant in disease presentation and overall survival in high-risk DLBCL. Low nuclear expression of Nrf1, high cytoplasmic expression of Nrf1, high nuclear expression of Nrf2 and low cytoplasmic expression of Keap1 are associated with adverse outcome in this patient group.

Inhibition of HDAC3 Ameliorates Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Diabetic Mice In Vivo and In Vitro

BACKGROUND

A substantial increase in histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) expression is implicated in the pathological process of diabetes and stroke. However, it is unclear whether HDAC3 plays an important role in diabetes complicated with stroke. We aimed to explore the role and the potential mechanisms of HDAC3 in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in diabetic state.

METHODS

Diabetic mice were subjected to 1 h ischemia, followed by 24 h reperfusion. PC12 cells were exposed to high glucose for 24 h, followed by 3 h of hypoxia and 6 h of reoxygenation (H/R). Diabetic mice received RGFP966 (the specific HDAC3 inhibitor) or vehicle 30 minutes before the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and high glucose-incubated PC12 cells were pretreated with RGFP966 or vehicle 6 h before H/R.

RESULTS

HDAC3 inhibition reduced the cerebral infarct volume, ameliorated pathological changes, improved the cell viability and cytotoxicity, alleviated apoptosis, attenuated oxidative stress, and enhanced autophagy in cerebral I/R injury model in diabetic state in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we found that the expression of HDAC3 was remarkably amplified, and the Bmal1 expression was notably decreased in diabetic mice with cerebral I/R, whereas this phenomenon was obviously reversed by RGFP966 pretreatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that the HDAC3 was involved in the pathological process of the complex disease of diabetic stroke. Suppression of HDAC3 exerted protective effects against cerebral I/R injury in diabetic state in vivo and in vitro via the modulation of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy, which might be mediated by the upregulation of Bmal1.

Vascular and cognitive effects of cocoa-rich chocolate in postmenopausal women: a study protocol for a randomised clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

The intake of polyphenols has certain health benefits. This study will aim to assess the effect of adding a daily amount of chocolate high in cocoa content and polyphenols to the normal diet on blood pressure, vascular function, cognitive performance, quality of life and body composition in postmenopausal women.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Here we plan a randomised clinical trial with two parallel groups involving a total of 140 women between 50 and 64 years in the postmenopausal period, defined by amenorrhoea of ​​at least 12 consecutive months. The main variable will be the change in blood pressure. Secondary variables will be changes in vascular function, quality of life, cognitive performance and body composition. The intervention group will be given chocolate containing 99% cocoa, with instructions to add 10 g daily to their normal diet for 6 months. The daily nutritional contribution of this amount of chocolate is 59 kcal and 65.4 mg of polyphenols. There will be no intervention in the control group. All variables will be measured at the baseline visit and 3 and 6 months after randomisation, except cognitive performance and quality of life, which will only be assessed at baseline and at 6 months. Recruitment is scheduled to begin on 1 June 2018, and the study will continue until 31 May 2019.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of the Health Area of Salamanca, Spain ('CREC of Health Area of Salamanca'), in February 2018. A SPIRIT checklist is available for this protocol. The clinical trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov provided by the US National Library of Medicine, number NCT03492983. The results will be disseminated through open access peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, broadcast media and a presentation to stakeholders.

Study protocol for a double-blind randomised controlled trial investigating the impact of 12 weeks supplementation with a Fucus vesiculosus extract on cholesterol levels in adults with elevated fasting LDL cholesterol who are overweight or have obesity

INTRODUCTION

Hyperlipidaemia, hyperglycaemia and chronic inflammation are risk factors for chronic diseases cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols are bioactive compounds found in marine algae with potential antihyperlipidaemic, antihyperglycaemic and anti-inflammatory effects. The modulation of these risk factors using bioactive polyphenols may represent a useful strategy for disease prevention and management; research in humans, however, remains limited. This trial aims to determine the impact of a polyphenol-rich brown seaweed extract on fasting hyperlipidaemia, hyperglycaemia and inflammation. Effects on mood and cognition will also be evaluated.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Fifty-eight hypercholesterolaemic participants who are overweight or have obesity will be randomised to receive either a polyphenol-rich brown seaweed extract (2000 mg dose containing 600 mg polyphenols) or placebo (2000 mg rice flour) daily for 12 weeks. Fasting venous blood samples will be taken at baseline, week 6 and week 12 of the intervention to assess serum cholesterol (total, low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein) and triglyceride concentrations, plasma glucose and insulin concentrations and markers of inflammation. Mood and cognitive function will be evaluated as exploratory outcomes. Independent t-tests or equivalent will be used to determine differences between the two groups in changes from baseline to week 12. Analysis of variance will be used to assess differences between the groups across the three time points (baseline, week 6 and week 12).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been granted by the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (2017-8689-10379). Results from this trial will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals, national and international presentations, and a PhD thesis. These results are essential to inform the use of polyphenol-rich brown seaweeds as a functional food or nutritional supplement ingredients for health promotion and disease prevention and management in humans.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12617001039370; Pre-results.

Metaplasticity in the Visual Cortex: Crosstalk Between Visual Experience and Reactive Oxygen Species

Metaplasticity is the regulation of synaptic plasticity based on the history of previous synaptic activation. This concept was formulated after observing that synaptic changes in the visual cortex are not fixed, but dynamic and dependent on the history of visual information flux. In visual cortical neurons, sustained synaptic stimulation activate the enzymatic complex NOX2, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). NOX2 is the main molecular structure responsible for translating neural activity into redox modulation of intracellular signaling pathways involved in plastic changes. Here, we studied the interaction between NOX2 and visual experience as metaplastic factors regulating synaptic plasticity at the supergranular layers of the mouse visual cortex. We found that genetic inhibition of NOX2 reverses the polarizing effects of dark rearing from LTP to LTD. In addition, we demonstrate that this process relies on changes in the NMDA receptor functioning. Altogether, this work indicates a role of ROS in the activity-dependent regulation of cortical synaptic plasticity.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptic plasticity in the visual cortex is modulated by the history of sensory experience and this modulation has been defined as metaplasticity. Dark rearing facilitates synaptic potentiation as a mechanism optimizing the range of synaptic modification. This process requires the production of reactive oxygen species mediated by the enzymatic complex NOX2. If the activity of NOX2 is inhibited, then visual deprivation results in synaptic depression. These findings increase our knowledge about metaplasticity and help in our understanding of how neural activity modulates cellular mechanisms of synaptic change.

Proteomic Analysis of Peroxynitrite-Induced Protein Nitration in Isolated Beef Heart Mitochondria

Mitochondria are exposed to reactive nitrogen species under physiological conditions and even more under several pathologic states. In order to reveal the mechanism of these processes we studied the effects of peroxynitrite on isolated beef heart mitochondria in vitro. Peroxynitrite has the potential to nitrate protein tyrosine moieties, break the peptide bond, and eventually release the membrane proteins into the solution. All these effects were found in our experiments. Mitochondrial proteins were resolved by 2D electrophoresis and the protein nitration was detected by immunochemical methods and by nano LC-MS/MS. Mass spectrometry confirmed nitration of ATP synthase subunit beta, pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component subunit beta, citrate synthase and acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase. Immunoblot detection using chemiluminiscence showed possible nitration of other proteins such as cytochrome b-c1 complex subunit 1, NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 2, elongation factor Tu, NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] flavoprotein 2, heat shock protein beta-1 and NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 8. ATP synthase beta subunit was nitrated both in membrane and in fraction prepared by osmotic lysis. The high sensitivity of proteins to nitration by peroxynitrite is of potential biological importance, as these enzymes are involved in various pathways associated with energy production in the heart.

Proteomic analysis of peroxynitrite-induced protein nitration in isolated beef heart mitochondria

Mitochondria are exposed to reactive nitrogen species under physiological conditions and even more under several pathologic states. In order to reveal the mechanism of these processes we studied the effects of peroxynitrite on isolated beef heart mitochondria in vitro. Peroxynitrite has the potential to nitrate protein tyrosine moieties, break the peptide bond, and eventually release the membrane proteins into the solution. All these effects were found in our experiments. Mitochondrial proteins were resolved by 2D electrophoresis and the protein nitration was detected by immunochemical methods and by nano LC-MS/MS. Mass spectrometry confirmed nitration of ATP synthase subunit beta, pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component subunit beta, citrate synthase and acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase. Immunoblot detection using chemiluminiscence showed possible nitration of other proteins such as cytochrome b-c1 complex subunit 1, NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 2, elongation factor Tu, NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] flavoprotein 2, heat shock protein beta-1 and NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 8. ATP synthase beta subunit was nitrated both in membrane and in fraction prepared by osmotic lysis. The high sensitivity of proteins to nitration by peroxynitrite is of potential biological importance, as these enzymes are involved in various pathways associated with energy production in the heart.

Translational Significance of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators in Psychiatric Disorders

Accumulating data from various clinical trial studies suggests that adjuvant therapy with ovarian hormones (estrogens) could be effective in reducing cognitive deficit and psychopathological symptoms in women with psychiatric disorders. However, estrogen therapy poses serious limitations and health issues including feminization in men and increased risks of thromboembolism, hot flashes, breast hyperplasia, and endometrium hyperplasia when used for longer duration in older women (aged ≥ 60 years) or in women who have genetic predispositions. On the other hand, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), which may (or may not) carry some risks of hot flashes, thromboembolism, breast hyperplasia, and endometrial hyperplasia, are generally devoid of feminization effect. In clinical trial studies, adjuvant therapy with tamoxifen, a triphenylethylene class of SERM, has been found to reduce the frequency of manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder, whereas addition of raloxifene, a benzothiophene class of SERM, to regular doses of antipsychotic drugs has been found to reduce cognitive deficit and psychological symptoms in men and women with schizophrenia, including women with treatment refractory psychosis. These outcomes together with potent neurocognitive, neuroprotective, and cardiometabolic properties suggest that SERMs could be the potential targets for designing effective and safer therapies for psychiatric disorders.

Expression of apoptosis-regulatory genes in the hippocampus of rat neonates born to mothers with diabetes

Diabetes during pregnancy impairs the development of the central nervous system (CNS) and causes cognitive and behavioral abnormalities in offspring. However, the exact mechanism by which the maternal diabetes affects the development of the brain remains to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of maternal diabetes in pregnancy on the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax genes and the numerical density of degenerating dark neurons (DNs) in the hippocampus of offspring at the first postnatal two weeks. Wistar female rats were maintained diabetic from a week before pregnancy through parturition and male offspring was sacrificed at P0, P7, and P14. Our findings demonstrated a significant down-regulation in the hippocampal expression of Bcl-2 in the diabetic group newborns (P < 0.05). In contrast, the mRNA expression of Bax was markedly up-regulated in the offspring born to diabetic dams at all of studied time-points (P < 0.05). Moreover, we found a striking increase in the numerical density of DNs in the various subfields of hippocampus of diabetic group pups (P < 0.05). The results of the present study revealed that maternal hyperglycemia during gestational period may result in disturbances in the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax genes as two important genes in neuronal apoptosis regulation and induces the production of DNs in the developing hippocampus of neonatal rats. These disturbances may be a reason for the cognitive, structural, and behavioral anomalies observed in offspring born to diabetic mothers. Furthermore, the control of maternal glycaemia by insulin administration in most cases normalized these negative impacts.

Oxidative stress and inflammation in cerebral cavernous malformation disease pathogenesis: Two sides of the same coin

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CCM proteins play pleiotropic roles in various redox-sensitive signaling pathways.

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CCM proteins modulate the crosstalk between redox signaling and autophagy that govern cell homeostasis and stress responses.

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Oxidative stress and inflammation are emerging as key focal determinants of CCM lesion formation, progression and severity.

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The pleiotropic functions of CCM proteins may prevent vascular dysfunctions triggered by local oxidative stress and inflammatory events.

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The distinct therapeutic compounds proposed so far for CCM disease share the ability to modulate redox signaling and autophagy.

Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) is a vascular disease of proven genetic origin, which may arise sporadically or is inherited as an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetrance and highly variable expressivity. CCM lesions exhibit a range of different phenotypes, including wide inter-individual differences in lesion number, size, and susceptibility to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Lesions may remain asymptomatic or result in pathological conditions of various type and severity at any age, with symptoms ranging from recurrent headaches to severe neurological deficits, seizures, and stroke. To date there are no direct therapeutic approaches for CCM disease besides the surgical removal of accessible lesions. Novel pharmacological strategies are particularly needed to limit disease progression and severity and prevent de novo formation of CCM lesions in susceptible individuals.

Useful insights into innovative approaches for CCM disease prevention and treatment are emerging from a growing understanding of the biological functions of the three known CCM proteins, CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2 and CCM3/PDCD10. In particular, accumulating evidence indicates that these proteins play major roles in distinct signaling pathways, including those involved in cellular responses to oxidative stress, inflammation and angiogenesis, pointing to pathophysiological mechanisms whereby the function of CCM proteins may be relevant in preventing vascular dysfunctions triggered by these events. Indeed, emerging findings demonstrate that the pleiotropic roles of CCM proteins reflect their critical capacity to modulate the fine-tuned crosstalk between redox signaling and autophagy that govern cell homeostasis and stress responses, providing a novel mechanistic scenario that reconciles both the multiple signaling pathways linked to CCM proteins and the distinct therapeutic approaches proposed so far. In addition, recent studies in CCM patient cohorts suggest that genetic susceptibility factors related to differences in vascular sensitivity to oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to inter-individual differences in CCM disease susceptibility and severity.

This review discusses recent progress into the understanding of the molecular basis and mechanisms of CCM disease pathogenesis, with specific emphasis on the potential contribution of altered cell responses to oxidative stress and inflammatory events occurring locally in the microvascular environment, and consequent implications for the development of novel, safe, and effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Maternal Malnutrition in the Etiopathogenesis of Psychiatric Diseases: Role of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Evidence from human studies indicates that maternal metabolic state and malnutrition dramatically influence the risk for developing psychiatric complications in later adulthood. In this regard, the central role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and particularly n-3 PUFAs, is emerging considering that epidemiological evidences have established a negative correlation between n-3 PUFA consumption and development of mood disorders. These findings were supported by clinical studies indicating that low content of n-3 PUFAs in diet is linked to an increased susceptibility to psychiatric disorders. PUFAs regulate membrane fluidity and exert their central action by modulating synaptogenesis and neurotrophic factor expression, neurogenesis, and neurotransmission. Moreover, they are precursors of molecules implicated in modulating immune and inflammatory processes in the brain. Importantly, their tissue concentrations are closely related to diet intake, especially to maternal consumption during embryonal life, considering that their synthesis from essential precursors has been shown to be inefficient in mammals. The scope of this review is to highlight the possible mechanisms of PUFA functions in the brain during pre- and post-natal period and to evaluate their role in the pathogenesis of psychiatric diseases.