Cadmium-Induced Oxidative Stress Impairs Glycemic Control in Adolescents

Levosimendan and Dobutamin Attenuate LPS-Induced Inflammation in Microglia by Inhibiting the NF-κB Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Nrf2/HO-1 Signalling

Hypovolemic shock is a circulatory failure, due to a loss in the effective circulating blood volume, that causes tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxia. This condition stimulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokine production in different organs and also in the central nervous system (CNS). Levosimendan, a cardioprotective inodilator, and dobutamine, a β1-adrenergic agonist, are commonly used for the treatment of hypovolemic shock, thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. For this reason, we aimed at investigating levosimendan and dobutamine's neuroprotective effects in an "in vitro" model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation. Human microglial cells (HMC3) were challenged with LPS (0.1 µg/mL) to induce an inflammatory phenotype and then treated with levosimendan (10 µM) or dobutamine (50 µM) for 24 h. Levosimendan and dobutamine significantly reduced the ROS levels and markedly increased Nrf2 and HO-1 protein expression in LPS-challenged cells. Levosimendan and dobutamine also decreased p-NF-κB expression and turned off the NLRP3 inflammasome together with its downstream signals, caspase-1 and IL-1β. Moreover, a reduction in TNF-α and IL-6 expression and an increase in IL-10 levels in LPS-stimulated HMC3 cells was observed following treatment. In conclusion, levosimendan and dobutamine attenuated LPS-induced neuroinflammation through NF-κB pathway inhibition and NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Nrf2/HO-1 signalling, suggesting that these drugs could represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of neuroinflammation consequent to hypovolemic shock.

Antioxidative Stress-Induced Destruction to Cochlear Cells Caused by Blind Antioxidant Therapy

OBJECTIVE

Verification that blind and excessive use of antioxidants leads to antioxidant stress which exacerbates cochlear cell damage.

STUDY DESIGN

Basic research.

SETTING

The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University.

METHODS

We compared and quantified hair cell-like house ear institute-organ of corti 1 (HEI-OC1) cell density, cell viability, and apoptosis caused by different concentrations of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) via Hoechst staining, Cell Counting Kit 8, Hoechst with propidium iodide staining, and Annexin V with propidium iodide (PI) staining. Apoptosis induced by high concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 in cochlear explants was analyzed and compared by cochlear dissection and activated caspase 3 labeling.

RESULTS

With the increase of NAC concentration (0-1000 μmol/L), cell density decreased consequently and reached the lowest at 1000 μmol/L (****P ≤ .0001). Cell viability is also declining (**P < .01). The number of Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled cells and PI-labeled cells increased with increasing NAC concentration after treatment of HEI-OC1 cells for 48 hours. The proportion of apoptotic cells also rose (*P < .05, **P < .01). Cochlear hair cells (HCs) treated with low concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 for 48 hours showed no damage. When the concentrations of M40403 and coenzyme Q10 were increased (concentrations＞30 μmol/L), HC damage began, followed by a dose-dependent increase in HC loss (*P < .001, **P < .0001). Activated caspase-3 was clearly apparent in cochlear explants treated with 50 μmol/L M40403 and coenzyme Q10 compared with cochlear explants without added M40403 and coenzyme Q10.

CONCLUSION

These experimental results suggest that inappropriate application of antioxidants can cause severe damage to normal cochlear HCs.

Chronic administration of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol protects hyperinsulinemic gastric tissue in rats

Hyperinsulinemia (HI) can result from some reasons such as an increase in basal/fasting circulating insulin and/or potentiation of postprandial insulin production. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is indirectly related to HI since it both causes and results from insulin resistance. Understanding the causes of HI and treating this is crucial for preventing DM. Previous research has shown that delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has medicinal benefits. In light of this, the relationship between THC and oxidative stress, DNA repair mechanism, apoptosis, and its regulatory impact on appetite hormones in the gastric tissue of hyperinsulinemic rats has been investigated for the first time. Male rats (Spraque-Dawley, total = 32) were used, and they were randomly divided into the following groups (n = 8 in each group): control (CTRL), HI, THC administered control (THC, 1.5 mg/kg/day, during 4 weeks), and THC administered HI (HI + THC) groups. The number of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and caspase-3 immunopositive cells in the HI group was significantly reduced compared to the CTRL group. The number of PCNA and caspase-9 immunopositive cells was significantly increased in the HI + THC group compared to the HI group. Obestatin immunopositive cell numbers in the HI + THC group were higher than in the HI and CTRL groups. The results show that THC administration may affect the regulation of appetite hormones and regeneration in the fundus of rats with HI. Glutathione (GSH) levels were higher in the HI + THC group than in the HI group. Both immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses revealed that THC promotes regeneration and regulates appetite hormones in hyperinsulinemic gastric tissues.

Multitargeted inhibition of key enzymes associated with diabetes and Alzheimer's disease by 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives: Synthesis, in vitro screening, and computational studies

A library of 22 derivatives of 1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol was synthesized, structurally characterized, and assessed for its potential to inhibit α-amylase, α-glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and antioxidant activities. Most of the tested compounds demonstrated good to moderate inhibition potential; however, their activity was lower than that of the standard acarbose. Significantly, compound 3f exhibited the highest inhibition potential against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, with IC50 values of 18.52 ± 0.09 and 20.25 ± 1.05 µM, respectively, in comparison to the standard acarbose (12.29 ± 0.26; 15.98 ± 0.14 µM). Compounds also demonstrated varying degrees of inhibitory potential against AChE (IC50  = 9.25 ± 0.19 to 36.15 ± 0.12 µM) and BChE (IC50  = 10.06 ± 0.43 to 35.13 ± 0.12 µM) enzymes compared to the standard donepezil (IC50  = 2.01 ± 0.12; 3.12 ± 0.06 µM), as well as DPPH (IC50  = 20.98 ± 0.06 to 52.83 ± 0.12 µM) and ABTS radical scavenging activities (IC50  = 22.29 ± 0.18 to 47.98 ± 0.03 µM) in comparison to the standard ascorbic acid (IC50  = 18.12 ± 0.15; 19.19 ± 0.72). The kinetic investigations have demonstrated that the compounds exhibit competitive-type inhibition for α-amylase, noncompetitive-type inhibition for α-glucosidase and AChE, and mixed-type inhibition for BChE. Additionally, a molecular docking study was performed on all synthetic oxadiazoles to explore the interaction details of these compounds with the active sites of the enzymes.

Assessment of hepatoprotective, nephroprotective efficacy, and antioxidative potential of Moringa oleifera leaf powder and ethanolic extract against PCOS-induced female albino mice (Mus Musculus)

Moringa oleifera is a medicinal plant that has anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, tissue-protective, and antioxidant activities. Here, we evaluated the protective effect of M. oleifera leaf powder (MoLP) and 70% ethanol M. oleifera leaf extract (MoLE) on mitigating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-induced liver and kidney dysfunction via regulating oxidative stress in female albino mice (Mus musculus). The efficacy of M. oleifera was compared with metformin (standard medicine used to treat infertility in women). PCOS was induced by intramuscular injection of testosterone enanthate at 1.0 mg/100 g BW for 35 days. PCOS-induced mice were treated with MoLP (250 and 500 mg/Kg), MoLE (250 and 500 mg/kg), and metformin (250 mg/kg) orally for 14 days. Renal function test (RFT), liver function test (LFT), and oxidative stress biomarker malondialdehyde (MDA) were quantified in serum at 0, 7, and 14 days of intervention. Mice treated with M. oleifera and metformin showed a significant decrease (p < .001) in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphate (ALP), total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, and a significant increase (p < .001) in total protein, albumin, globulin, and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio. Oxidative stress decreased significantly (p = .00) with respect to treatments, exposure days, and their interaction in metformin and all M. oleifera-treated groups. M. oleifera leaf powder and extract reduce oxidative stress and enhance nephron-hepatic activity in PCOS-induced female albino mice.

From reactive species to disease development: Effect of oxidants and antioxidants on the cellular biomarkers

The influence of modern lifestyle, diet, exposure to chemicals such as phytosanitary substances, together with sedentary lifestyles and lack of exercise play an important role in inducing reactive stress (RS) and disease. The imbalance in the production and scavenging of free radicals and the induction of RS (oxidative, nitrosative, and halogenative) plays an essential role in the etiology of various chronic pathologies, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. The implication of free radicals and reactive species injury in metabolic disturbances and the onset of many diseases have been accumulating for several decades, and are now accepted as a major cause of many chronic diseases. Exposure to elevated levels of free radicals can cause molecular structural impact on proteins, lipids, and DNA, as well as functional alteration of enzyme homeostasis, leading to aberrations in gene expression. Endogenous depletion of antioxidant enzymes can be mitigated using exogenous antioxidants. The current interest in the use of exogenous antioxidants as adjunctive agents for the treatment of human diseases allows a better understanding of these diseases, facilitating the development of new therapeutic agents with antioxidant activity to improve the treatment of various diseases. Here we examine the role that RS play in the initiation of disease and in the reactivity of free radicals and RS in organic and inorganic cellular components.

The effect of propolis supplementation in improving antioxidant status: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials

The present study aimed to assess the effect of propolis supplementation on oxidative status, a key contributor to the etiology of many chronic diseases. A systematic search of multiple databases, including Web of Science, SCOPUS, Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar, was conducted from inception to October 2022 to identify articles examining the effect of propolis on glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A total of nine studies were included in the final analysis, and a random-effects model was used to pool the estimated effects. Results showed that propolis supplementation significantly increased the levels of GSH (SMD = 3.16; 95% CI: 1.15, 5.18; I2  = 97.2%), GPX (SMD = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.07, 1.05; p = 0.025; I2  = 62.3%), and TAC (SMD = 3.26; 95% CI: 0.89, 5.62; I2  = 97.8%, p < 0.001). However, the effect of propolis on SOD was not significant (SMD = 0.05; 95% CI: -0.25, 0.34; I2  = 0.0%). Although the MDA concentration was not significantly decreased overall (SMD = -0.85, 95% CI: -1.70, 0.09; I2  = 93.3%), a significant decrease in MDA levels was observed at doses ≥1000 mg/day (SMD = -1.90; 95% CI: -2.97, -0.82; I2  = 86.4) and supplementation durations of less than 11 weeks (SMD = -1.56; 95% CI: -2.60, -0.51; I2  = 90.4). These results suggest that propolis is a safe supplement with a beneficial effect on GSH, GPX, and TAC levels and may be an effective adjunctive therapy for diseases where oxidative stress is a key factor in the etiology. However, further high-quality studies are necessary to make more precise and comprehensive recommendations given the limited number of studies, clinical diversity, and other limitations.

Health benefits of legume seeds

Pulses have been part of human nutrition for centuries. They are also used in folk medicine as products with multidirectional medicinal effects. They are annual plants representing the Fabaceae family. Their edible part is the fruit, i.e. the so-called pods. Whole pods or their parts can be eaten, depending on the species and fruit ripeness. Beans, peas, peanuts, chickpeas, lentils, broad beans and soybeans are edible legume species. Legume seeds are characterized by high nutritional value. Compared to seeds from other plants, they have high protein content ranging, on average, from 20% to 35%, depending on the type, growing conditions and maturity of the fruit. This review focuses on various health-promoting properties of legumes and presents their nutritional value and compounds exerting health-promoting effects. Many pulses have a low glycemic index, which is important for prevention and treatment of diabetes. In addition to their low glycemic index and high fiber content, pulses have α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, which reduce the absorption of glucose from the gastrointestinal tract. These compounds have antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory effects. Pulses have been shown to contain bioactive peptides with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory properties; hence, they are useful in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Pulses used in the nutrition of obese individuals provide compounds with pancreatic lipase inhibitory properties, thus promoting weight reduction and control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

GPX4 utilization by selenium is required to alleviate cadmium-induced ferroptosis and pyroptosis in sheep kidney

Cadmium (Cd), a persistent and harmful heavy metal in the environment, can accumulate in the kidneys and cause nephrotoxicity. Selenium (Se) is a beneficial natural element that alleviates the toxicity of Cd. To ascertain the relationship between the protective mechanism of Se against Cd nephrotoxicity and ferroptosis and pyroptosis, we randomly divided 48 sheep into four groups and treated them with Cd chloride and/or sodium selenite for 50 days. The data confirmed that Cd apparently resulted in impaired kidney histology and function, depletion of GSH and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate contents and CAT and SOD activities, elevation of MDA level, as well as the reduction in selenoprotein mRNA (GPX1, GPX4, TXNRD1, SELP) levels and GPX4 protein level and immunofluorescence intensity. Meanwhile, Cd induced ferroptosis by causing iron overload, up-regulating PTGS2, NCOA4, TFR1, and LC3B mRNA levels and PTGS2 and LC3B-II/LC3B-I protein levels, reducing SLC7A11 and FTH1 mRNA and protein levels, and enhancing the immunofluorescence co-localization of FTH1/LC3B. Moreover, it was also found that Cd triggered pyroptosis, which was evidenced by the increase of NLRP3 immunohistochemical positive signal, GSDMD-N immunofluorescence intensity, IL-1β and IL-18 release and the levels of pyroptosis-related mRNA (NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, GSDMD, IL-1β and IL-18) and proteins (NLRP3, Caspase-1p20, GSDMD-N, IL-1β and IL-18). Notably, Se increased the expression level of GPX4 and the transcription factors TFAP2c and SP1, and ameliorated Cd-induced changes in aforementioned factors. In conclusion, GPX4 utilization by Se might be required to alleviate Cd-induced ferroptosis and pyroptosis in sheep kidney.

Larvicidal, antioxidant and biotoxicity assessment of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl)benzoic acid isolated from Bacillus pumilus against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus

Mosquitoes are a vector for many dreadful diseases known for their public health concern. The continued use of synthetic insecticides against vector control has led to serious environmental impacts, human health problems, and the development of insect resistance. Hence, alternative mosquito control methods are needed to protect the environment and human health. In the present study, the bioefficacy of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl) benzoic acid isolated from Bacillus pumilus were tested against Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles stephensi. The isolated bioactive compound was characterized through thin layer chromatography (TLC), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The pure compound caused a high percent mortality rate in a dose-dependent manner, the obtained values were 96, 82, 69, 50 and 34%; 86, 72, 56, 43, and 44%; 100, 90, 83, 70 and 56% against Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus, and An. stephensi respectively. The effective lethal concentration values (LC₅₀) were 13.65, 14.90 and 9.64 ppm against Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus, An. Stephensi, respectively. The effect of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl) benzoic acid significantly increased the superoxide dismutase, catalase, α, β esterase and Glutathione-S-transferase level after 24 h of the treatment period. The comet assay confirmed that isolated compound causes DNA damage in all tested insects. Histopathological examinations of treated larvae showed shrunken body posture, damaged epithelial cells and microvillus as compared to control organisms. The biosafety of the isolated compound was assessed against G. affinis and did not produce mortality which confirmed that the activity of the isolated compound is species specific. The current study concludes that the critical success factors of new insecticidal agent development are based on the eco-compatibility and alternative tools for the pesticide producing industry.

Atherosclerosis Plaque Reduction by Lycopene Is Mediated by Increased Energy Expenditure through AMPK and PPARα in ApoE KO Mice Fed with a High Fat Diet

Lycopene is a carotenoid found in tomatoes that has potent antioxidant activity. The Mediterranean diet is particularly rich in lycopene, which has well-known beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. We tested the effects of lycopene extract in a group of 20 ApoE knockout mice, fed with a high fat western diet for 14 weeks. Starting from week 3 and up to week 14, the mice were randomly divided into two groups that received lycopene (n = 10) by oral suspension every day at the human equivalent dose of 60 mg/day (0.246 mg/mouse/day), or the vehicle solution (n = 10). The lycopene administration reduced triglycerides and cholesterol blood levels starting from week 6 and continuing through to the end of the experiment (p < 0.001). This reduction was mediated by an enhanced liver expression of PPAR-α and AMPK-α and reduced SREBP levels (p < 0.0001). As a histological red-out, the extent of atherosclerotic plaques and the intima−media thickness in the aorta were significantly reduced by lycopene. In this context, lycopene augmented the Nrf-2 positivity staining in the endothelium, thereby confirming that its antioxidant activity was mediated by this nuclear factor. The positive results obtained in this pre-clinical model further support the use of lycopene extracts to reduce atherosclerosis.

Repurposing monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis possibly through modulating reactive oxidative stress mediated inflammatory cytokines

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) are presently used to treat depression, parkinsonian, and other psychiatric disorders. The present study was aimed to repurpose the use of MOAI in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The animal model of RA was developed using collagen type II (CII) in Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) followed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and a booster dose of CII in FCA. The effect of MAOI, Selegiline was evaluated whereas the indicators like paw thickness, arthritic score, and the splenic index were measured and compared with the standard drug Methotrexate. Further to explore the molecular mechanism, the expression of serum inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α), radiographical and histopathological study of hind paw were also checked and analyzed. Treatment with MAOI, Selegiline not only reduced the paw thickness, arthritic score, and the splenic index, but also greatly improved the inflammatory biochemical and hematologic parameters and improved the arthritis score. The serum level of IL-6 and TNF-α are considerably decreased dose dependently, however, the notable significant effect (**p < 0.01) observed at concentration of 30 mg/kg b.w. when the RA animals treated by Selegiline. Collectively, Selegiline improved the progression of RA possibly via decreased catecholamine breakdown at synovial fluid resulting decrease hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) generation and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines in situ. Thus, the finding support and indicate the repurposing of MAOI for the treatment of RA meriting further studies on synovial monoamine oxidase as a new therapeutic target to design a new drug for RA.

Estimation of the reducing power and electrochemical behavior of few flavonoids and polyhydroxybenzophenones substantiated by bond dissociation energy: a comparative analysis

Oxidative stress that damages cellular components affects various organs including the brain. It is thus believed to play an active role in neurodegenerative diseases, wherein the intrinsic antioxidant enzymes metabolize toxic intermediates. For therapeutic purpose, instead of antioxidant enzymes, small organic compounds as antioxidants may be more effective. Here, reducing power and electrochemical behavior of some flavanols, flavanonols, flavones, flavonols and O-methylated flavonols have been estimated and confirmed by the calculated bond dissociation energy. Compared to other classes, flavonols exhibited increased reducing power that decreased with methylation of the oxygen atom in the B-ring. Gossypetin emerged as the most effective of these flavonols. Generally, compounds with two hydroxyl groups in two consecutive positions of the phenyl ring and an enolic group in the C-ring with more preference for the hydroxyl group in the ortho position with respect to each other in the catechol moiety showed major activity. 5 position of the A-ring showed the least effect on the activity. The present understanding therefore may be applied for identifying compounds to be used as scaffold for designing potent antioxidants.

PDRN, a natural bioactive compound, blunts inflammation and positively reprograms healing genes in an "in vitro" model of oral mucositis

Oral mucositis is a side effect hard to treat following high dose chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Adenosine A_2A receptor stimulation blocks NF-κB and boosts the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, thus blunting inflammation and triggering growth factor codifying genes. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a registered drug that activates the A_2A receptor. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate PDRN effects in an "in vitro" model of oral mucositis induced by prompting an inflammatory phenotype in human gingival fibroblasts (GF) and human oral mucosal epithelial cells (EC). GF and EC were stimulated with LPS (2 μg/ml) alone or in combination with i) PDRN (100 μg/ml); ii) PDRN plus ZM241385 (1 μM) as an A_2AR antagonist; iii) CGS21680 (1 μM) as an A_2AR agonist. LPS boosted NF-κB, TNF-α and IL-6 expression, decreased IL-10 levels and downregulated both Wnt/β-catenin, VEGF and EGF expression. PDRN reverted the LPS-induced phenotype as well as CGS21680. Co-incubation with ZM241385 abolished PDRN effects, thus confirming A_2A receptor involvement in PDRN mechanism of action. These results suggest that PDRN efficacy may be due to a "dual mode" of action: NF-κB inhibition and Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation. However, these interesting findings need to be confirmed by animal and clinical studies.

Health Potential of Aloe vera against Oxidative Stress Induced Corneal Damage: An "In Vitro" Study

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is characterized by the gradual deterioration of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) and is the most common cause of corneal transplantation worldwide. CECs apoptosis caused by oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of FECD. Antioxidant compounds have been of considerable significance as a candidate treatment in the management of corneal diseases. Based on these findings, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of an aloe extract with antioxidant properties, in an “in vitro” model of FECD. Human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells were preincubated with aloe extract 100 μg/mL, two hours before hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) stimulus. H₂O₂ challenge significantly reduced the cell viability, increased the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, m-RNA expression and activity of Nrf-2, Catalase and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) were reduced together with an enhanced expression of IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). Furthermore, Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 expression were down-regulated while Bax was up-regulated by H₂O₂ stimulus. Aloe extract blunted the oxidative stress-induced inflammatory cascade triggered by H₂O₂ and modulated apoptosis. Aloe extract defends HCE cells from H₂O₂-induced injury possibly due its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, indicating that eye drops containing aloe extract may be used as an adjunctive treatment for FECD.

Associations between metabolic syndrome and four heavy metals: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Four most concerned heavy metal pollutants, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury may share common mechanisms to induce metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, recent studies exploring the relationships between MetS and metal exposure presented inconsistent findings. We aimed to clarify the relationship between heavy metal exposure biomarkers and MetS using a meta-analysis and systematic review approach. Literature search was conducted in international and the Chinese national databases up to June 2020. Of selected studies, we extracted the relevant data and evaluated the quality of each study's methodology. We then calculated the pooled effect sizes (ESs), standardized mean differences (SMDs), and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effect meta-analysis approach followed by stratification analyses for control of potential confounders. Involving 55,536 participants, the included 22 articles covered 52 observational studies reporting ESs and/or metal concentrations on specific metal and gender. Our results show that participants with MetS had significantly higher levels of heavy metal exposure [pooled ES = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.23; n = 42, heterogeneity I2 = 75.6%; and SMD = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.29; n = 32, I2 = 94.2%] than those without MetS. Pooled ESs in the subgroups stratified by arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury were 1.04 (95% CI: 0.97, 1.10; n = 8, I2 = 61.0%), 1.10 (0.95, 1.27; 11, 45.0%), 1.21 (1.00, 1.48; 12, 82.9%), and 1.26 (1.06, 1.48; 11, 67.7%), respectively. Pooled ESs in the subgroups stratified by blood, urine, and the other specimen were 1.22 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.38; n = 26, I2 = 75.8%), 1.06 (1.00, 1.13; 14, 58.1%), and 2.41 (1.30, 4.43; 2, 0.0%), respectively. In conclusion, heavy metal exposure was positively associated with MetS. Further studies are warranted to examine the effects of individual metals and their interaction on the relationship between MetS and heavy metals.

Bioaccumulation of Toxic Metals in Children Exposed to Urban Pollution and to Cement Plant Emissions

Cement plants located in urban areas can increase health risk. Although children are particularly vulnerable, biomonitoring studies are lacking. Toenail concentration of 24 metals was measured in 366 children (6-10 years), who live and attend school in a city hosting a cement plant. Living addresses and schools were geocoded and attributed to exposed or control areas, according to modeled ground concentrations of PM₁₀ generated by the cement plant. Air levels of PM₁₀ and NO₂ were monitored. PM₁₀ levels were higher in the exposed, than in the control area. The highest mean PM₁₀ concentration was recorded close to the cement plant. Conversely, the highest NO₂ concentration was in the control area, where vehicular traffic and home heating were the prevalent sources of pollutants. Exposed children had higher concentrations of Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), and Arsenic (As) than controls. These concentrations correlated each other, indicating a common source. Toenail Barium (Ba) concentration was higher in the control- than in the exposed area. The location of the attended school was a predictor of Cd, Hg, Ni, Ba concentrations, after adjusting for confounders. In conclusion, children living and attending school in an urban area exposed to cement plant emissions show a chronic bioaccumulation of toxic metals, and a significant exposure to PM₁₀ pollution. Cement plants located in populous urban areas seem therefore harmful, and primary prevention policies to protect children health are needed.

Burn injury induces elevated inflammatory traffic: the role of NF-κB

A burn insult generally sustains a hypovolemic shock due to a significant loss of plasma from the vessels. The burn injury triggers the release of various mediators, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytokines, and inflammatory mediators. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), stemming from foreign microbial discharge and damaged tissue or necrotic cells from the burn-injured site, enter the systemic circulation, activate toll-like receptors (TLRs), and trigger the excessive secretion of cytokines and inflammatory mediators. Inflammation plays a vital role in remodeling an injured tissue, detoxifying toxins, and helps in the healing process. A transcription factor, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), contributes to a variety of physiological and pathological conditions, including immune response, cell death, cell survival, and inflammatory processes. During the pathogenesis of a burn wound, upregulation of various cytokines and growth factors lead to undesirable tissue inflammation. Thus, NF-κB, a dominant moderator of inflammation, needs to be altered to prove beneficial to the treatment of burns or other inflammation-associated diseases. This review addresses the relationship between NF-κB and elevated inflammation in a burn condition that could potentially be altered to induce an early wound-healing mechanism of burn wounds.

Protective Effect of Silibinin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Equine Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells, an In Vitro Study

Simple Summary

Natural compounds are often an important source of biologically active molecules, which can find important applications in the treatment or pharmacological prevention of several pathologies. Silibinin is a natural polyphenolic flavonoid that is extracted from plant milk thistle, Silybum marianum. Silibinin has been reported to have antioxidant and immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities. In horses, in particular, inflammation secondary to bacterial infection or translocation is one of the most frequent causes of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to test the effect of silibinin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in equine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Taken together, our results showed an interesting prospective in therapeutic use of silibinin in equine inflammatory disease. Furthermore, the results from this study support the evidence of use equine PBMCs as an in vitro model to study inflammatory and immune response and for drug screening into the target specie.

Abstract

Although inflammation is an important physiological response, it plays a prominent role in several diseases across the mammalian species. In horses, in particular, inflammation secondary to bacterial infection or translocation is one of the most frequent causes of morbidity and mortality. Research in new molecules with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory proprieties and safe use profile is constantly an active field; natural compounds are an important source of molecules with peculiar properties such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating. Silibinin, a natural polyphenolic flavonoid, extracted from plant milk thistle, Silybum marianum, has been reported to have actions such as antioxidant immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory. The aim of this study was to test the effect of silibinin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in equine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Our results showed the protective effect of silibinin 10 μM and 50 μM in equine PBMCs stimulated with LPS. Silibilinin was able to prevent the LPS induced increased levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. The results from this study on LPS-stimulated equine PBMCs showed that silibinin could be a useful pharmacological approach in treatment or prevention of several inflammatory conditions in horse.

Protective Effect of Hydroxytyrosol on LPS-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Bovine Endometrial Epithelial Cell Line

Bovine endometritis is a serious pathogen-induced infectious disease that affects the physiological processes of estrus, pregnancy and the postpartum condition. The inflamed endometrium responds by activating an inflammatory intracellular signaling cascade that leads to increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress is closely related to several pathological conditions in perinatal dairy cows and play a key role in tissue damage. Hydroxytyrosol (HT), a natural phenolic alcohol with a strong antioxidant activity, displayed a wide range of biological effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of HT in an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in bovine uterine endometrial cells. Our results showed that HT had a significant protective effect in LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress. HT was also able to increase the capacity of endogenous antioxidant systems through the up-regulation of the NRF2 pathway. Furthermore, HT restored the tight junction protein expressions. In conclusion, our results showed the protective effects of HT in LPS-stimulated BEND cells. Therefore, the results of this study suggest an important protective role of HT in the treatment and prevention of uterine pathologies in dairy cows.

Combined Treatment with Polynucleotides and Hyaluronic Acid Improves Tissue Repair in Experimental Colitis

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic conditions that can benefit from the combined treatment of adenosine receptor agonists and hyaluronic acid (HA), which, binding the CD44, has pro-survival effects. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of a mixture of polynucleotides and HA in an experimental model of dinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (DNBS)-induced colitis. A group of 40 rats received a single intra-colonic instillation of DNBS, and after 6 h, animals were randomized to receive daily: (i) saline solution; (ii) polynucleotides (Poly; 8 mg/kg); (iii) polynucleotides (8 mg/kg) plus hyaluronic acid (HA; 15 mg/kg); and (iv) hyaluronic acid (HA; 15 mg/kg). Rats in the control group (n = 10) received saline solution only. Seven days after induction, animals receiving Poly plus HA showed reduced clinical signs, weight loss and colon shortening, ameliorated macroscopic and histological damage, and apoptosis. Moreover, the combined treatment reduced the positivity in the colonic infiltrate of CD3 positive T cells, CD20 positive B cells and CD44. Furthermore, Poly plus HA reduced colonic myeloperoxidase activity and malondialdehyde, indicating a dampening of the inflammatory infiltrate and oxidation products. Our research demonstrated that a combined treatment of polynucleotides with hyaluronic acid had a protective effect in a model of ulcerative colitis, suggesting that this association deserves further attention for the treatment of IBDs.

Emerging Links between Cadmium Exposure and Insulin Resistance: Human, Animal, and Cell Study Data

Recent research has helped clarify the role of cadmium (Cd) in various pathological states. We have demonstrated Cd involvement in pancreatic cancer, as well as the bioaccumulation of Cd in the pancreas. Bioaccumulation and increased toxicity suggest that Cd may also be involved in other pancreas-mediated diseases, like diabetes. Cd falls into the category of "hyperglycemic" metals, i.e., metals that increase blood glucose levels, which could be due to increased gluconeogenesis, damage to β-cells leading to reduced insulin production, or insulin resistance at target tissue resulting in a lack of glucose uptake. This review addresses the current evidence for the role of Cd, leading to insulin resistance from human, animal, and in vitro studies. Available data have shown that Cd may affect normal insulin function through multiple pathways. There is evidence that Cd exposure results in the perturbation of the enzymes and modulatory proteins involved in insulin signal transduction at the target tissue and mutations of the insulin receptor. Cd, through well-described mechanisms of oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial damage, may also alter insulin production in β-cells. More work is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms associated with Cd-mediated insulin resistance.

Effects of Hydroxytyrosol against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells: A Natural Therapeutic Tool for Bovine Mastitis

Background: Bovine mastitis is a growing health problem, affecting both welfare of dairy cattle and milk production. It often leads to chronic infections, disturbing the quality of milk and resulting in cow death. Thus, it has a great economic impact for breeders. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the protective effect of hydroxytyrosol—a natural molecule which is the major constituent of many phyto-complexes—in an in vitro model of mastitis induced by LPS (1μg/mL). Results: Our results showed that hydroxytyrosol (10 and 25 μM) was able to prevent the oxidative stress induced by LPS (intracellular ROS, GSH and NOX-1) and the consequently inflammatory response (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6). The protective effect of hydroxytyrosol is also related to the enhancement of endogenous antioxidant systems (Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1 and Txnrd1). Moreover, hydroxytyrosol showed an important protective effect on cell functionality (α-casein S1, α-casein S2 and β-casein). Conclusions: Taken together, our results showed a significant protective effect of hydroxytyrosol on oxidative stress and inflammatory response in MAC-T cells. Thus, we indicated a possible important therapeutic role for hydroxytyrosol in the prevention or management of bovine mastitis.

β-Caryophyllene Reduces the Inflammatory Phenotype of Periodontal Cells by Targeting CB2 Receptors

Human gingival fibroblasts (GF) and human oral mucosa epithelial cells (EC) with an inflammatory phenotype represent a valuable experimental paradigm to explore the curative activity of agents to be used in oral mucositis. The role of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) has not yet been investigated in oral mucositis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of β-Caryophyllene (BCP), a CB2 agonist, in an in vitro model of oral mucositis. GF and EC were stimulated with LPS (2 µg/mL) alone or in combination with BCP; a group of LPS challenged GF and EC were treated with BCP and AM630, a CB2 antagonist. LPS increased the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-17A whereas it decreased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-13. The upstream signals were identified in an augmented expression of NF-κB and STAT-3 and in reduced mRNA levels of PPARγ and PGC-1α. BCP blunted the LPS-induced inflammatory phenotype and this effect was reverted by the CB2 antagonist AM630. These results suggest that CB2 receptors are an interesting target to develop innovative strategies for oral mucositis and point out that BCP exerts a marked curative effect in a preclinical model of oral mucositis which deserves to be confirmed in a clinical setting.

Redox Homeostasis and Metabolism in Cancer: A Complex Mechanism and Potential Targeted Therapeutics

Reactive Oxygen Species or "ROS" encompass several molecules derived from oxygen that can oxidize other molecules and subsequently transition rapidly between species. The key roles of ROS in biological processes are cell signaling, biosynthetic processes, and host defense. In cancer cells, increased ROS production and oxidative stress are instigated by carcinogens, oncogenic mutations, and importantly, metabolic reprograming of the rapidly proliferating cancer cells. Increased ROS production activates myriad downstream survival pathways that further cancer progression and metastasis. In this review, we highlight the relation between ROS, the metabolic programing of cancer, and stromal and immune cells with emphasis on and the transcription machinery involved in redox homeostasis, metabolic programing and malignant phenotype. We also shed light on the therapeutic targeting of metabolic pathways generating ROS as we investigate: Orlistat, Biguandes, AICAR, 2 Deoxyglucose, CPI-613, and Etomoxir.

Therapeutical properties of Mimosa caesalpiniifolia in rat liver intoxicated with cadmium

The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic properties of Mimosa caesalpiniifolia in liver of rats exposed to cadmium under morphological, oxidative, inflammatory, and mutagenic parameters. A total of 40 Wistar rats (90 days, ~ 250 g) were distributed into eight groups (n = 5) as follows: (i) control; (ii) cadmium: cadmium chloride injection at 1.2 mg/kg; (iii) Mimosa extract: treatment with Mimosa extract at 250 mg/kg; (iv) Mimosa fraction: treatment with Mimosa acetate fraction at 62.5 mg/kg; (v) cadmium and Mimosa extract 62.5: submitted to cadmium chloride at 1.2 mg/kg injection and treatment with Mimosa extract at 62.5 mg/kg; (vi) cadmium and Mimosa extract 125: subjected to cadmium chloride at 1.2 mg/kg injection and treatment with Mimosa extract at 125 mg/kg; (vii) cadmium and Mimosa 250 extract: submitted to cadmium chloride 1.2 mg/kg injection and treatment with Mimosa extract at 250 mg/kg; (viii) cadmium treated with fraction of Mimosa acetate: submitted to cadmium chloride 1.2 mg/kg injection and treatment with acetate fraction of Mimosa extract at 62.5 mg/kg. In the animals intoxicated with cadmium and treated with fraction [62.5], increased expression of SOD-Mn reduced frequency of binucleated hepatocytes, karyolysis, and karyorrhexis, besides the antimutagenic and antioxidant action. The extract [62.5] was cytoprotective, antimutagenic, and reduced karyolysis. The extract [125] was cytoprotective, antioxidant, antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and reduced frequency of binucleated hepatocytes, while extract [250] was cytotoxic and mutagenic. In summary, the extract of Mimosa exerts some therapeutic properties in hepatic tissue after Cd intoxication, but only when it is administrated at intermediate doses. Probably, a high content of polyphenols in the EHM [250] and Fr-EtOAc groups exert pro-oxidant activities in the liver particularly when associated with Cd.

Biomonitoring of Metals in Children Living in an Urban Area and Close to Waste Incinerators

The impact of waste incinerators is usually examined by measuring environmental pollutants. Biomonitoring has been limited, until now, to few metals and to adults. We explored accumulation of a comprehensive panel of metals in children free-living in an urban area hosting two waste incinerators. Children were divided by georeferentiation in exposed and control groups, and toenail concentrations of 23 metals were thereafter assessed. The percentage of children having toenail metal concentrations above the limit of detection was higher in exposed children than in controls for Al, Ba, Mn, Cu, and V. Exposed children had higher absolute concentrations of Ba, Mn, Cu, and V, as compared with those living in the reference area. The Tobit regression identified living in the exposed area as a significant predictor of Ba, Ni, Cu, Mn, and V concentrations, after adjusting for covariates. The concentrations of Ba, Mn, Ni, and Cu correlated with each other, suggesting a possible common source of emission. Exposure to emissions derived from waste incinerators in an urban setting can lead to body accumulation of specific metals in children. Toenail metal concentration should be considered a noninvasive and adequate biomonitoring tool and an early warning indicator which should integrate the environmental monitoring of pollutants.

Effect of cadmium on essential metals and their impact on lipid metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that induces irregularity in numerous lipid metabolic pathways. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a model to study lipid metabolism, has been used to establish the molecular basis of cellular responses to Cd toxicity in relation to essential minerals and lipid homeostasis. Multiple pathways sense these environmental stresses and trigger the mineral imbalances specifically calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn). This review is aimed to elucidate the role of Cd toxicity in yeast, in three different perspectives: (1) elucidate stress response and its adaptation to Cd, (2) understand the physiological role of a macromolecule such as lipids, and (3) study the stress rescue mechanism. Here, we explored the impact of Cd interference on the essential minerals such as Zn and Ca and their influence on endoplasmic reticulum stress and lipid metabolism. Cd toxicity contributes to lipid droplet synthesis by activating OLE1 that is essential to alleviate lipotoxicity. In this review, we expanded our current findings about the effect of Cd on lipid metabolism of budding yeast.

Alleviating Effect of α-Lipoic Acid and Magnesium on Cadmium-Induced Inflammatory Processes, Oxidative Stress and Bone Metabolism Disorders in Wistar Rats

Cadmium exposure contributes to internal organ dysfunction and the development of chronic diseases. The aim of the study was to assess the alleviating effect of α-lipoic acid and/or magnesium on cadmium-induced oxidative stress and disorders in bone metabolism, kidney and liver function, and hematological and biochemical parameters changes. Male rats were exposed to cadmium (30 mg Cd/kg of feed) for three months. Some animals exposed to Cd were supplemented with magnesium (150 mg Mg/kg of feed) and/or with α-lipoic acid (100 mg/kg body weight, four times a week). Cd intake inhibited body weight gain and lowered hemoglobin concentration, whereas it increased the activities of liver enzymes, as well as the level of oxidative stress, CTX-1 (C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen, bone resorption marker), and CRP (C-reactive protein, marker of inflammation); it decreased vitamin D3, GSH (reduced glutathione), and the serum urea nitrogen/creatinine index. Mg and/or α-lipoic acid supplementation increased the antioxidant potential, and partially normalized the studied biochemical parameters. The obtained results show that both magnesium and α-lipoic acid decrease oxidative stress and the level of inflammatory marker, as well as normalize bone metabolism and liver and kidney function. Combined intake of α-lipoic acid and magnesium results in reinforcement of the protective effect; especially, it increases antioxidant defense.

Glucose and lipid lowering effects of Enhydra fluctuans extract in cadmium treated normal and type-2 diabetic model rats

BACKGROUND

Recent epidemiological and experimental studies suggest that cadmium and diabetes-related hyperglycemia may act synergistically to worsen metabolic regulation. The present study aims to evaluate the potential effects of Enhydra fluctuans extract in diabetes and dyslipidemia in cadmium (CdCl₂) induced- normal and type 2 diabetic model rats.

METHOD

Forty-eight Long-Evans rats were divided equally into the following six groups: Normal Control (N-C), Normal treated with CdCl₂ (N-Cd), Normal treated with plant extract (N-P), Normal treated with both plant extract and CdCl₂ (N-PCd), Diabetic treated with plant extract (DM-P) and Diabetic treated with both plant extract and CdCl2 (DM-PCd). Blood glucose and other biochemical parameters were estimated by the enzymatic colorimetric method. Histological analysis of liver and heart was done by the hematoxylin-eosin (H & E) method.

RESULTS

Twenty-one days treatment of E. fluctuans extracts at a dose of 200 mg/kg significantly reduced blood glucose level in N-PCd and DM-PCd (p < 0.05), and DM-P (p < 0.01) group. The plant extract had no direct effects on total blood lipids but, it had beneficial effects on TG/HDL-C ratio in N-P and DM-PCd groups (p < 0.05). Cd induction significantly reduced body weight [(N-Cd, N-PCd, DM-PCd) (p < 0.01)], and induced liver [N-Cd (p < 0.05), N-PCd, p < 0.001] and renal impairment [N-Cd (p < 0.05)]. In bi-variate association, a significant positive correlation between serum glucose and SGPT (p < 0.05) as well as SGPT and TG/HDL ratio (p = 0.019) was found in DM-P and in the merged group. The histology of liver and heart showed severe damages including inflammation, nuclear pyknosis, loss of myocardial fibers, necrosis and fibrosis in the Cd treated groups compared to plant treated groups.

CONCLUSION

E. fluctuans seems to have potent antihyperglycemic effects in diabetes and Cd toxicity along with partial antidyslipidemic properties in euglycemic and diabetic rats. Our study suggests a novel oral antihyperglycemic agent in the present environmental context.

Body burdens of heavy metals associated with epigenetic damage in children living in the vicinity of a municipal waste incinerator

To evaluate the body burdens of heavy metals correlated with health impact on school-age children living around a waste incinerator. A total of 81 children from the exposure area and 95 from the control area were recruited in our study. We measured the blood levels of chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS), conducted comet assays, calculated the percentage of 5-methylcytosine (5 mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) by MethylFlash methylated and a hydroxymethylated DNA quantification kit, and performed the flow cytometry to detect the expressions of surface antigens (including CD3⁺, CD19⁺, CD3⁺CD4⁺, CD3⁺CD8⁺, and CD3^-CD16⁺ and/or CD56⁺) in peripheral lymphocytes. Besides, we measured hormonal levels, including triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and analyzed several regular hematological parameters. In addition, concentrations of heavy metals in environmental samples including rice, soils, vegetables, and drinking water were detected by ICP-MS. The mean blood levels of Cr, Cd, and Pb in the exposure group were all statistically higher than in the control group (2.57 vs. 0.79 μg/L; 1.83 vs. 1.81 μg/L; 44.00 vs. 32.31 μg/L, p < 0.01). The 5 mC and 5hmC levels in the exposure group were statistically lower (1.15% vs. 4.14%; 0.22% vs. 0.30%, p < 0.01), whereas the mean level of % tail DNA was statistically higher (10.10% vs. 8.62%, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the mean blood level of Cr and Pb was negatively correlated with the level of 5 mC (r = -0.279, r = -0.190, P < 0.05) in total population. In conclusion, children living in the vicinity of the municipal waste incinerator suffered increased body burdens of heavy metals (Cr, Cd, and Pb) associated with genotoxicity and epigenetic modifications.

Decreased Insulin Secretion but Unchanged Glucose Homeostasis in Cadmium-Exposed Male C57BL/6 Mice

Cadmium (Cd) is a well-known toxic metal element that is largely distributed in the environment. Cd causes toxicity to most organs. Accumulating evidence suggests that Cd exposure is associated with islet dysfunction and development of diabetes, but the association remains controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible effects of chronic Cd exposure on glucose metabolism in male C57BL/6 mice. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with CdCl₂ solution (1 mg.kg⁻¹) twice a week for 24 weeks. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and body weights were measured weekly. After 24 weeks, the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), intraperitoneal insulin tolerance test (IPITT), and fasting serum insulin (FSI) level test were performed. The insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) and pancreatic β cell function index (HOMA-β) were calculated and analyzed. The expression of insulin receptor (IR) in mouse liver was detected by real-time PCR. Pancreatic tissue was collected for histological examination. The results demonstrated that FBG, IPGTT, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-β were identical between Cd exposure and control mice. In contract, mean fasting serum insulin level, area under the curve (AUC) of IPITT, and IR expression in livers of Cd-exposed mice decreased significantly compared with control mice. Cd administration induced islet atrophy and decreased islet area. The results suggested that Cd exposure decreased insulin secretion and maintained glucose homeostasis in male C57BL/6 mice and that pancreatic functions should be monitored in populations chronically exposed to Cd.

Metabolic Outcomes in Southern Italian Preadolescents Residing Near an Industrial Complex: The Role of Residential Location and Socioeconomic Status

Evidence suggests that environmental exposures and socioeconomic factors may interact to produce metabolic changes in children. We assessed the influence of residential location and socioeconomic status (SES) on pediatric body mass index (BMI) Z-score and fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentration. Participants included 214 children aged 6-11 years who live near a large industrial complex in Taranto, Italy. Participants were grouped into residential zones based on the distance between their home address and the complex periphery (Zone 1: 0.000-4.999 km, Zone 2: 5.000-9.999 km, Zone 3: 10.000-15.000 km). BMI Z-scores were calculated via World Health Organization (WHO) pediatric reference curves. FBG was obtained via venous blood sampling. Closer residential location to the industrial complex on the order of 5.000 km was significantly associated with worsened metabolic outcomes, particularly in female children. Zone 1 participants had higher BMI-adjusted FBG than Zone 2 and 3 participants (p < 0.05 versus Zone 2; p < 0.01 versus Zone 3). SES did not significantly influence BMI-adjusted FBG. Moreover, BMI Z-scores indicated high rates of overweight (22.0%) and obesity (22.9%) in the cohort. BMI Z-score was not significantly associated with SES or residential zone but was negatively associated with maternal education level (p < 0.05). These results offer new evidence that residing near industrial activity may predict adverse effects on child metabolic health.

Cellular Stresses and Stress Responses in the Pathogenesis of Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance (IR), a key component of the metabolic syndrome, precedes the development of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Its etiological pathways are not well defined, although many contributory mechanisms have been established. This article summarizes such mechanisms into the hypothesis that factors like nutrient overload, physical inactivity, hypoxia, psychological stress, and environmental pollutants induce a network of cellular stresses, stress responses, and stress response dysregulations that jointly inhibit insulin signaling in insulin target cells including endothelial cells, hepatocytes, myocytes, hypothalamic neurons, and adipocytes. The insulin resistance-inducing cellular stresses include oxidative, nitrosative, carbonyl/electrophilic, genotoxic, and endoplasmic reticulum stresses; the stress responses include the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, the DNA damage response, the unfolded protein response, apoptosis, inflammasome activation, and pyroptosis, while the dysregulated responses include the heat shock response, autophagy, and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 signaling. Insulin target cells also produce metabolites that exacerbate cellular stress generation both locally and systemically, partly through recruitment and activation of myeloid cells which sustain a state of chronic inflammation. Thus, insulin resistance may be prevented or attenuated by multiple approaches targeting the different cellular stresses and stress responses.