Glutathione "Redox Homeostasis" and Its Relation to Cardiovascular Disease

Structure, properties, and decomposition in biological systems of a new nitrosyl iron complex with 2-methoxythiophenolyls, promising for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

A new promising binuclear tetranitrosyl iron complex with 2-methoxythiophenolyl of the composition [Fe2(C7H7OS)2(NO)4] (complex 1), which acts on the therapeutic targets of cardiovascular diseases, guanylate and adenylate cyclase, has been synthesized. X-ray diffraction data show the presence of two isoforms of complex 1; according to quantum chemical calculations, the structure of only the trans isomer is stable in solutions. The processes of transformation of complex 1 in DMSO, in aqueous solutions, as well as in the presence of bovine serum albumin, reduced glutathione, and mucin were studied. DMSO promotes the decomposition of the original complex 1 into mononuclear products. In biological systems, the mechanisms of decomposition of the complex 1 differ from aqueous solutions. In albumin solution, a gradual formation of a high-molecular-weight dinitrosyl complex is observed, obtained by coordinating the [Fe(NO)2]+ fragment with the amino acid groups of the protein. In the presence of mucin, an EPR signal from stable mononitrosyl products is observed. The introduction of glutathione into the system of the complex 1 leads to the replacement of one initial thioligand with glutathione. In the model systems under study, a more efficient and prolonged generation of NO groups is observed compared to a buffer solution. The obtained data on the influence of the environment on the properties of the complex 1 in combination with a study of their effect on enzymes allow us to recommend it for further study as a potential drug with vasodilator, antianginal, and hypotensive properties.

Molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in cardiovascular disease

Ferroptosis is a newly recognized type of regulated cell death that is characterized by the accumulation of iron and lipid peroxides in cells. Studies have shown that ferroptosis plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases. In cardiovascular disease, ferroptosis is associated with ischemia-reperfusion injury, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and atherosclerosis. The molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis include the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxidation products, glutathione depletion, and dysregulation of lipid metabolism, among others. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in cardiovascular disease and discuss the potential therapeutic strategies targeting ferroptosis as a treatment for cardiovascular disease.

Data-Driven Insights into the Association Between Oxidative Stress and Calcium-Regulating Proteins in Cardiovascular Disease

A growing body of biomedical literature suggests a bidirectional regulatory relationship between cardiac calcium (Ca2+)-regulating proteins and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that is integral to the pathogenesis of various cardiac disorders via oxidative stress (OS) signaling. To address the challenge of finding hidden connections within the growing volume of biomedical research, we developed a data science pipeline for efficient data extraction, transformation, and loading. Employing the CaseOLAP (Context-Aware Semantic Analytic Processing) algorithm, our pipeline quantifies interactions between 128 human cardiomyocyte Ca2+-regulating proteins and eight cardiovascular disease (CVD) categories. Our machine-learning analysis of CaseOLAP scores reveals that the molecular interfaces of Ca2+-regulating proteins uniquely associate with cardiac arrhythmias and diseases of the cardiac conduction system, distinguishing them from other CVDs. Additionally, a knowledge graph analysis identified 59 of the 128 Ca2+-regulating proteins as involved in OS-related cardiac diseases, with cardiomyopathy emerging as the predominant category. By leveraging a link prediction algorithm, our research illuminates the interactions between Ca2+-regulating proteins, OS, and CVDs. The insights gained from our study provide a deeper understanding of the molecular interplay between cardiac ROS and Ca2+-regulating proteins in the context of CVDs. Such an understanding is essential for the innovation and development of targeted therapeutic strategies.

Autophagy-dependent ferroptosis may play a critical role in early stages of diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), as one of the most common and significant microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus (DM), continues to elude effective targeted treatment for vision loss despite ongoing enrichment of the understanding of its pathogenic mechanisms from perspectives such as inflammation and oxidative stress. Recent studies have indicated that characteristic neuroglial degeneration induced by DM occurs before the onset of apparent microvascular lesions. In order to comprehensively grasp the early-stage pathological changes of DR, the retinal neurovascular unit (NVU) will become a crucial focal point for future research into the occurrence and progression of DR. Based on existing evidence, ferroptosis, a form of cell death regulated by processes like ferritinophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy, mediates apoptosis in retinal NVU components, including pericytes and ganglion cells. Autophagy-dependent ferroptosis-related factors, including BECN1 and FABP4, may serve as both biomarkers for DR occurrence and development and potentially crucial targets for future effective DR treatments. The aforementioned findings present novel perspectives for comprehending the mechanisms underlying the early-stage pathological alterations in DR and open up innovative avenues for investigating supplementary therapeutic strategies.

Doxorubicin Incorporation into Gold Nanoparticles: An In Vivo Study of Its Effects on Cardiac Tissue in Rats

Gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) have been explored as potential vectors for enhancing the antitumor efficacy of doxorubicin (DOX) while minimizing its cardiotoxic effects. However, the impacts of DOX Au-NPs on cardiac function and oxidative stress remain inadequately understood. This study aimed to explore the effects of DOX Au-NPs in comparison to free DOX, focusing on oxidative stress markers, inflammation, ultrastructural changes, and cardiac function. Male rats were divided into the following four groups: control, citrate Au-NPs, DOX, and DOX Au-NPs. Cardiac function was assessed using echocardiography, and oxidative stress was evaluated through Nrf2, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, and the GSH/GSSG ratio. The ultrastructure of cardiac tissue was assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Rats treated with DOX Au-NPs exhibited significant cardiac dysfunction, as indicated by a reduction in fractional shortening and ejection fraction. Oxidative stress markers, including elevated MDA levels and a reduced GSH/GSSG ratio, were significantly worse in the DOX Au-NP group. SOD levels decreased, indicating compromised antioxidant defenses. Citrate Au-NPs also caused some alterations in cardiac function and ultrastructure but without other molecular alterations. DOX Au-NPs failed to mitigate cardiotoxicity, instead exacerbating oxidative stress and cardiac dysfunction. DOX Au-NPs possess cardiotoxic effects, necessitating further investigation into alternative nanoparticle formulations or therapeutic combinations to ensure both efficacy and safety in cancer treatment.

Effects of GSH on Alcohol Metabolism and Hangover Improvement in Humans: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Crossover Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

The definition of alcohol hangovers refers to a combination of mental and physical side effects that occur after drinking. One of the ways that hangovers can be ameliorated is by promoting the rapid and effective elimination of acetaldehyde to alleviate the discomfort it causes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of GSH (yeast extract containing 50 mg of glutathione) on the hangover-relieving effect.

METHODS

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial was conducted with 40 participants who reported experiencing hangover symptoms. Participants consumed alcohol at a rate of 0.78 g per kg body weight with 40% whiskey, adjusted according to their weight. Alcohol and acetaldehyde concentrations in serum were analyzed at 0, 0.25, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 15 h after alcohol consumption.

RESULTS

In the GSH group, the serum alcohol concentration decreased, although this change was not statistically significant. The serum acetaldehyde concentration was significantly lower in the GSH group in comparison to the placebo group (at 0.25, 1, 4, and 6 h (p < 0.01) and at 0.5, 2, and 15 h (p < 0.001) after alcohol consumption). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups on questionnaires such as the Acute Hangover Scale and the Alcohol Hangover Severity Scale.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, we consider the discovery that GSH lowered acetaldehyde concentration, a crucial factor in alcohol metabolism, to be more considerable. Therefore, GSH administration effectively reduces acetaldehyde levels in serum. This result suggests that this effect may contribute to the relief of hangover symptoms.

Glutathione Attenuates Copper Levels and Alleviates Hepatic Injury in TX Mice

Wilson's disease (WD) is an inherited disorder that is characterized by abnormal copper metabolism, and treatment of this condition in the clinic focuses on promoting copper ion excretion. Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide compound whose active group is a sulfhydryl group, which is involved in many important biochemical reactions. Thus, the antioxidant and integrative detoxification effects of GSH have attracted attention. Whether GSH promotes copper ion excretion and reduces oxidative stress to alleviate WD-related liver injury is the focus of this study. Here, we used toxic milk (TX) mice as a model to study WD, and we treated these mice with GSH. We observed that GSH was effective at promoting copper excretion by TX mice. In addition, GSH has been shown to be effective in attenuating liver injury, including improving the structure and morphology of stem tissue and reducing hepatocyte necrosis. The effects of GSH on hepatic oxidative stress were determined by measuring catalase, malondialdehyde and total superoxide dismutase. The results showed that GSH could increase hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities, reduce lipid peroxidation levels and attenuate liver injury. In conclusion, GSH may exert its hepatic benefits by promoting copper ion excretion and preventing oxidative stress.

Preparation of hollow double-layer Pt@CeO2 nanospheres as oxidase mimetics for the colorimetric-fluorescent-SERS triple-mode detection of glutathione in serum

Glutathione (GSH) is an essential antioxidant in the human body, but its detection is difficult due to the interference of complex components in serum. Herein, hollow double-layer Pt@CeO2 nanospheres were developed as oxidase mimetics, and the light-assisted oxidase mimetics effects were found. The oxidase activity was enhanced significantly by utilizing the synergistic effect of Schottky junction and the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of Pt under UV light. A novel GSH colorimetric-fluorescent-SERS sensing platform was established, with the sensing performance notably boosted by using the light-assisted oxidase mimetics effects. This platform boasts an exceptionally low detection limit (LOD) of 0.084 μM, while the detection time was shortened from 10 min to just 2 min. The anti-interference detection with high recovery rate (96.84%-107.4 %) in real serum made it be promising for practical application.

Dapagliflozin attenuates LPS-induced myocardial injury by reducing ferroptosis

Septic cardiomyopathy is a severe cardiovascular disease with a poor prognosis. Previous studies have reported the involvement of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of septic cardiomyopathy. SGLT2 inhibitors such as dapagliflozin have been demonstrated to improve ischemia-reperfusion injury by alleviating ferroptosis in cardiomyocyte. However, the role of dapagliflozin in sepsis remains unclear. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of dapagliflozin on LPS-induced septic cardiomyopathy. Our results indicate that dapagliflozin improved cardiac function in septic cardiomyopathy experimental mice. Mechanistically, dapagliflozin works by inhibiting the translation of key proteins involved in ferroptosis, such as GPX4, FTH1, and SLC7A11. It also reduces the transcription of lipid peroxidation-related mRNAs, including PTGS2 and ACSL4, as well as iron metabolism genes TFRC and HMOX1.

Glutathione dynamics in subcellular compartments and implications for drug development

Glutathione (GSH) is a pivotal tripeptide antioxidant essential for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and regulating diverse cellular processes. Subcellular compartmentalization of GSH underscores its multifaceted roles across various organelles including the cytosol, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and nucleus, each exhibiting distinct regulatory mechanisms. Perturbations in GSH dynamics contribute to pathophysiological conditions, emphasizing the clinical significance of understanding its intricate regulation. This review consolidates current knowledge on subcellular GSH dynamics, highlighting its implications in drug development, particularly in covalent drug design and antitumor strategies targeting intracellular GSH levels. Challenges and future directions in deciphering subcellular GSH dynamics are discussed, advocating for innovative methodologies to advance our comprehension and facilitate the development of precise therapeutic interventions based on GSH modulation.

Novel PLGA-based nanoformulation decreases doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

Nanotechnology has the potential to provide formulations of antitumor agents with increased selectivity towards cancer tissue thereby decreasing systemic toxicity. This in vivo study evaluated the potential of novel nanoformulation based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) to reduce the cardiotoxic potential of doxorubicin (DOX). In vivo toxicity of PLGADOX was compared with clinically approved non-PEGylated, liposomal nanoformulation of DOX (LipoDOX) and conventional DOX form (ConvDOX). The study was performed using Wistar Han rats of both sexes that were treated intravenously for 28 days with 5 doses of tested substances at intervals of 5 days. Histopathological analyses of heart tissues showed the presence of myofiber necrosis, degeneration processes, myocytolysis, and hemorrhage after treatment with ConvDOX, whereas only myofiber degeneration and hemorrhage were present after the treatment with nanoformulations. All DOX formulations caused an increase in the troponin T with the greatest increase caused by convDOX. qPCR analyses revealed an increase in the expression of inflammatory markers IL-6 and IL-8 after ConvDOX and an increase in IL-8 expression after lipoDOX treatments. The mass spectra imaging (MSI) of heart tissue indicates numerous metabolic and lipidomic changes caused by ConvDOX, while less severe cardiac damages were found after treatment with nanoformulations. In the case of LipoDOX, autophagy and apoptosis were still detectable, whereas PLGADOX induced only detectable mitochondrial toxicity. Cardiotoxic effects were frequently sex-related with the greater risk of cardiotoxicity observed mostly in male rats.

Reversible Covalent Inhibition─Desired Covalent Adduct Formation by Mass Action

Covalent inhibition has seen a resurgence in the last several years. Although long-plagued by concerns of off-target effects due to nonspecific reactions leading to covalent adducts, there has been success in developing covalent inhibitors, especially within the field of anticancer therapy. Covalent inhibitors can have an advantage over noncovalent inhibitors since the formation of a covalent adduct may serve as an additional mode of selectivity due to the intrinsic reactivity of the target protein that is absent in many other proteins. Unfortunately, many covalent inhibitors form irreversible adducts with off-target proteins, which can lead to considerable side-effects. By designing the inhibitor to form reversible covalent adducts, one can leverage competing on/off kinetics in complex formation by taking advantage of the law of mass action. Although covalent adducts do form with off-target proteins, the reversible nature of inhibition prevents accumulation of the off-target adduct, thus limiting side-effects. In this perspective, we outline important characteristics of reversible covalent inhibitors, including examples and a guide for inhibitor development.

Mixture of Doxycycline, ML-7 and L-NAME Restores the Pro- and Antioxidant Balance during Myocardial Infarction-In Vivo Pig Model Study

The restoration of blood flow to the ischemic myocardium inflicts ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) heart injury (IRI). The main contributors to IRI are increased oxidative stress and subsequent excessive production of ROS, increased expression of NOS and peroxinitate, activation of MMPs, and enhanced posttranslational modifications of contractile proteins, which make them more susceptible to proteolytic degradation. Since the pathophysiology of IRI is a complex issue, and thus, various therapeutic strategies are required to prevent or reduce IRI and microvascular dysfunction, in the current study we proposed an innovative multi-drug therapy using low concentrations of drugs applied intracoronary to reach microvessels in order to stabilize the pro- and antioxidant balance during a MI in an in vivo pig model. The ability of a mixture of doxycycline (1 μM), ML-7 (0.5 μM), and L-NAME (2 μM) to modulate the pro- and antioxidative balance was tested in the left ventricle tissue and blood samples. Data showed that infusion of a MIX reduced the total oxidative status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and malondialdehyde (MDA). It also increased the total antioxidant capacity, confirming its antioxidative properties. MIX administration also reduced the activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and then decreased the release of MLC1 and BNP-26 into plasma. This study demonstrated that intracoronary administration of low concentrations of doxycycline in combination with ML-7 and L-NAME is incredibly efficient in regulating pro- and antioxidant balance during MI.

Understanding One Half of the Sex Difference Equation: The Modulatory Effects of Testosterone on Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

Diabetes is a prevalent disease, primarily characterized by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Significantly higher rates of myocardial dysfunction have been noted in individuals with diabetes, even in those without coronary artery disease or high blood pressure (hypertension). Numerous molecular mechanisms have been identified through which diabetes contributes to the pathology of diabetic cardiomyopathy, which presents as cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. At the cellular level, oxidative stress and inflammation in cardiomyocytes are triggered by hyperglycemia. Although males are generally more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than females, diabetic males are less likely to develop diabetic cardiomyopathy than are diabetic females. One reason for these differences may be the higher levels of serum testosterone in males compared with females. Although testosterone appears to protect against cardiomyocyte oxidative stress and exacerbate hypertrophy, its role in inflammation and fibrosis is much less clear. Additional preclinical and clinical studies will be required to delineate testosterone's effect on the diabetic heart.

Endogenous chemicals guard health through inhibiting ferroptotic cell death

Ferroptosis is a new form of regulated cell death caused by iron-dependent accumulation of lethal polyunsaturated phospholipids peroxidation. It has received considerable attention owing to its putative involvement in a wide range of pathophysiological processes such as organ injury, cardiac ischemia/reperfusion, degenerative disease and its prevalence in plants, invertebrates, yeasts, bacteria, and archaea. To counter ferroptosis, living organisms have evolved a myriad of intrinsic efficient defense systems, such as cyst(e)ine-glutathione-glutathione peroxidase 4 system (cyst(e)ine-GPX4 system), guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase 1/tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) system (GCH1/BH4 system), ferroptosis suppressor protein 1/coenzyme Q10 system (FSP1/CoQ10 system), and so forth. Among these, GPX4 serves as the only enzymatic protection system through the reduction of lipid hydroperoxides, while other defense systems ultimately rely on small compounds to scavenge lipid radicals and prevent ferroptotic cell death. In this article, we systematically summarize the chemical biology of lipid radical trapping process by endogenous chemicals, such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), BH4, hydropersulfides, vitamin K, vitamin E, 7-dehydrocholesterol, with the aim of guiding the discovery of novel ferroptosis inhibitors.

Transient receptor potential channel TRPM4 favors oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced coronary endothelial cell dysfunction via a mechanism involving ferroptosis

Accelerating the repair of damaged endothelium can effectively inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Transient receptor potential channel TRPM4 is a non-selective cation channel activated by internal Ca2+, which is expressed in endothelial cells. This study aimed to reveal the potential role of TRPM4 in AS along with the mechanism. Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) induced by ox-LDL was regarded as an in vitro model. The impacts of TRPM4 knockdown on cellular inflammation response, oxidative stress, normal endothelial function and lipid peroxidation were evaluated. Given that ferroptosis promotes AS progression, the effects of TRPM4 on intracellular iron ions and ferroptosis-related proteins was determined. Afterwards, HCAECs were treated with ferroptosis inducer erastin, and the influence of ferroptosis in the cellular model was revealed. TRPM4 was elevated in response to ox-LDL treatment in HCAECs. TRPM4 knockdown reduced the inflammation response, oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation caused by ox-LDL, and maintained the normal function of HCAECs. Erastin treatment destroyed the impacts of TRPM4 knockdown that are beneficial for cells to resist ox-LDL, showing the enhancement of the above adverse factors. Together, this study found that TRPM4 knockdown reduced ox-LDL-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and dysfunction in HCAECs, possibly via a mechanism involving Fe2+ and ferroptosis-related proteins.

Glutathione Therapy in Diseases: Challenges and Potential Solutions for Therapeutic Advancement

An endogenous antioxidant, reduced glutathione (GSH), is found at high concentrations in nearly all typical cells. GSH synthesis is a controlled process, and any disruption in the process of GSH synthesis could result in GSH depletion. Cellular oxidative damage results from GSH depletion. Various pathological conditions such as aging, cardiovascular disease (CVD), psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders, liver disorders, and diabetes mellitus are more affected by this stress. There are various reasons for GSH reduction, but replenishing it can help to improve this condition. However, there are challenges in this field. Low bioavailability and poor stability of GSH limit its delivery to tissues, mainly brain tissue. Today, new approaches are used for the optimal amount and efficiency of drugs and alternative substances such as GSH. The use of nano-materials and liposomes are effective methods for improving the treatment effects of GSH. The difficulties of GSH decrease and its connection to the most important associated disorders are reviewed for the first time in this essay. The other major concerns are the molecular mechanisms involved in them; the impact of treatment with replacement GSH; the signaling pathways impacted; and the issues with alternative therapies. The utilization of nano-materials and liposomes as potential new approaches to solving these issues is being considered.

Complexation of the Antihypertensive Drug Olmesartan with Zn: In Vivo Antihypertensive and Cardiac Effects

This study is based on the premise that the application of chemical synthesis strategies to structurally modify commercial drugs by complexation with biometals is a valid procedure to improve their biological effects. Our purpose is to synthesize a compound with greater efficacy than the original drug, able to enhance its antihypertensive and cardiac pharmacological activity. Herein, the structure of the coordination compound of Zn(II) and the antihypertensive drug olmesartan, [Zn(Olme)(H2O)2] (ZnOlme), is presented. After 8 weeks of treatment in SHR male rats, ZnOlme displayed a better blood pressure-lowering activity compared with olmesartan, with a noticeable effect even in the first weeks of treatment, while ZnCl2 showed similar results than the control. ZnOlme also reduced left ventricle (LV) weight and left ventricle/tibia length ratio (LV/TL), posterior wall thickness (PWT), and intraventricular septum in diastole (IVSd) suggesting its potential to prevent LV hypertrophy. Besides, ZnOlme reduced interstitial fibrosis (contents of collagen types I and III, responsible for giving rigidity and promoting vascular elasticity, respectively). The recovery of heart function was also evidenced by fractional shortening (diastolic left ventricular/systolic left ventricular) diameter determinations. Furthermore, ZnOlme increased the antioxidant capacity and prevented cardiac oxidative stress: it enhanced the reduction of reactive oxygen species generation, exerted a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation and enhanced glutathione contents in heart tissues compared to the control, Zn, and olmesartan treatments. Our results demonstrate that continuous oral administration of ZnOlme causes a better antihypertensive effect and grants enhancement of cardioprotection through antioxidant activity, in combination with hemodynamic improvement.

Effects of terbuthylazine on myocardial oxidative stress and ferroptosis via Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in broilers

Terbuthylazine (TBA) is one of the most commonly used and effective herbicides. However, due to its affinity for soil organic matter and water solubility, TBA can lead to biological health concerns. This study exposed broilers to TBA (0 mg/kg bw, 0.4 mg/kg bw, 4 mg/kg bw) for 28 days. The results showed significant pathological damage in broiler myocardial tissue, such as widening of the interstitial space, rupture of muscle fibers, and deposition of myocardial collagen fibers. In addition, Under the 0.4 mg/kg bw TBA exposure, myocardial oxidative stress was observed in broilers, which was accompanied by the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and the increased protein and mRNA levels of NQO1, NOX2 and SOD2 antioxidant enzymes. However, Nrf2/HO-1 protein and mRNA levels were reversed at 4 mg/kg bw TBA exposure. Meanwhile, the Nrf2/HO-1 mediated antioxidant defense was impaired. In contrast with the low dose, the protein and gene expression levels of NQO1, NOX2, and SOD2 were reduced in 4 mg/kg bw TBA group. The expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11 was significantly downregulated at both protein and mRNA levels. Beyond that, ACSL4 expression was significantly up-regulated, and the protein result was consistent with the mRNA expression, demonstrating the occurrence of ferroptosis. In general, TBA exposure activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, resulting in ferroptosis. This study links ferroptosis to the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, providing new insights into the potential role of TBA in myocardial toxicity.

Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense in the Heart, Liver, and Kidney of Bat Species with Different Feeding Habits

The aim of this study was to compare the oxidative metabolism of four neotropical bat species with different feeding habits and investigate the relationship between their feeding habits and oxidative status. In terms of oxidative damage, our findings revealed major differences among the four bat species. In particular, hematophagous bats had lower levels of oxidative damage in the heart but higher levels in the liver. Nectarivorous bats had lower levels of carbonyl groups in the kidneys compared to insectivorous and hematophagous bats. The activity of various antioxidant and non-antioxidant enzymes in the heart, liver, and kidney also showed significant differences among the bat species. H2O2 consumption was lower in the heart of hematophagous bats, while insectivorous bats exhibited the highest enzymatic activity in the kidney. SOD activity was lower in the heart of hematophagous bats and lower in nectarivorous bats in the liver. Fumarase activity was higher in the heart of frugivorous/insectivorous and lower in nectarivorous/hematophagous bats. GPx activity was higher in the heart of nectarivorous/insectivorous and higher in the kidney of insectivorous bats. GST activity was higher in the heart of nectarivorous and lower in hematophagous bats. The correlation analysis between oxidative markers and enzymatic/non-enzymatic antioxidants in the heart, liver, and kidney exhibited distinct patterns of correlations due to variations in antioxidant defense mechanisms and oxidative stress responses in different organs. The observed differences in oxidative damage, antioxidant enzyme activities, and correlations between oxidative markers and antioxidants highlight the adaptability and complexity of the antioxidant defense systems in these bats. Each organ appears to have specific demands and adaptations to cope with oxidative stress based on its physiological functions and exposure to dietary components. Our results have major significance for the conservation and management of bats, which are threatened species despite being crucial components of ecosystems. Our study's implications go beyond bat biology and offer valuable insights into comparative oxidative physiology.

Ferroptosis: a new strategy for cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is currently one of the prevalent causes of human death. Iron is one of the essential trace elements in the human body and a vital component of living tissues. All organ systems require iron for various metabolic processes, including myocardial and skeletal muscle metabolism, erythropoiesis, mitochondrial function, and oxygen transport. Its deficiency or excess in the human body remains one of the nutritional problems worldwide. The total amount of iron in a normal human body is about 3-5 g. Iron deficiency may cause symptoms such as general fatigue, pica, and nerve deafness, while excessive iron plays a crucial role in the pathophysiological processes of the heart through ferroptosis triggered by the Fenton reaction. It differs from other cell death modes based on its dependence on the accumulation of lipid peroxides and REDOX imbalance, opening a new pathway underlying the pathogenesis and mechanism of CVDs. In this review, we describe the latest research progress on the mechanism of ferroptosis and report its crucial role and association with miRNA in various CVDs. Finally, we summarise the potential therapeutic value of ferroptosis-related drugs or ferroptosis inhibitors in CVDs.

Changes in levels of the antioxidant glutathione in brain and blood across the age span of healthy adults: A systematic review

Aging is characterized by a gradual decline of the body's biological functions, which can lead to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Antioxidants neutralize ROS and maintain balance between oxidation and reduction. If ROS production exceeds the ability of antioxidant systems to neutralize, a damaging state of oxidative stress (OS) may exist. The reduced form of glutathione (GSH) is the most abundant antioxidant, and decline of GSH is considered a marker of OS. Our review summarizes the literature on GSH variations with age in healthy adults in brain (in vivo, ex vivo) and blood (plasma, serum), and reliability of in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) measurement of GSH. A systematic PubMed search identified 35 studies. All in vivo MRS studies (N = 13) reported good to excellent reproducibility of GSH measures. In brain, 3 out of 4 MRS studies reported decreased GSH with age, measured in precuneus, cingulate, and occipital regions, while 1 study reported increased GSH with age in frontal and sensorimotor regions. In post-mortem brain, out of 3 studies, 2 reported decreased GSH with age in hippocampal and frontal regions, while 1 study reported increased GSH with age in a frontal region. Oxidized glutathione disulfide (GSSG) was reported to be increased in caudate with age in 1 study, suggesting OS. Although findings in the brain lacked a clear consensus, the majority of studies suggested a decline of GSH with age. The low number of studies (particularly ex vivo) and potential regional differences may have contributed to variability in the findings in brain. In blood, in contrast, GSH levels predominately were reported to decrease with advancing age (except in the oldest-old, who may represent a select group of particularly successful agers), while GSSG findings lacked consensus. The larger number of studies assessing age-specific GSH level changes in blood (N = 16) allowed for more robust consensus across studies than in brain. Overall, the literature suggests that aging is associated with increased OS in brain and body, but the timing and regional distribution of changes in the brain require further study. The contribution of brain OS to brain aging, and the effect of interventions to raise brain GSH levels on decline of brain function, remain understudied. Given that reliable tools to measure brain GSH exist, we hope this paper will serve as a catalyst to stimulate more work in this field.

Targeting oxidative stress as a preventive and therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to exert a significant impact on global mortality rates, encompassing conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), atherosclerosis (AS), and myocardial infarction (MI). Oxidative stress (OS) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and advancement of CVDs, highlighting its significance as a contributing factor. Maintaining an equilibrium between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant systems not only aids in mitigating oxidative stress but also confers protective benefits on cardiac health. Herbal monomers can inhibit OS in CVDs by activating multiple signaling pathways, such as increasing the activity of endogenous antioxidant systems and decreasing the level of ROS expression. Given the actions of herbal monomers to significantly protect the normal function of the heart and reduce the damage caused by OS to the organism. Hence, it is imperative to recognize the significance of herbal monomers as prospective therapeutic interventions for mitigating oxidative damage in CVDs. This paper aims to comprehensively review the origins and mechanisms underlying OS, elucidate the intricate association between CVDs and OS, and explore the therapeutic potential of antioxidant treatment utilizing herbal monomers. Furthermore, particular emphasis will be placed on examining the cardioprotective effects of herbal monomers by evaluating their impact on cardiac signaling pathways subsequent to treatment.

Long-Term Transcriptomic Changes and Cardiomyocyte Hyperpolyploidy after Lactose Intolerance in Neonatal Rats

Many cardiovascular diseases originate from growth retardation, inflammation, and malnutrition during early postnatal development. The nature of this phenomenon is not completely understood. Here we aimed to verify the hypothesis that systemic inflammation triggered by neonatal lactose intolerance (NLI) may exert long-term pathologic effects on cardiac developmental programs and cardiomyocyte transcriptome regulation. Using the rat model of NLI triggered by lactase overloading with lactose and the methods of cytophotometry, image analysis, and mRNA-seq, we evaluated cardiomyocyte ploidy, signs of DNA damage, and NLI-associated long-term transcriptomic changes of genes and gene modules that differed qualitatively (i.e., were switched on or switched off) in the experiment vs. the control. Our data indicated that NLI triggers the long-term animal growth retardation, cardiomyocyte hyperpolyploidy, and extensive transcriptomic rearrangements. Many of these rearrangements are known as manifestations of heart pathologies, including DNA and telomere instability, inflammation, fibrosis, and reactivation of fetal gene program. Moreover, bioinformatic analysis identified possible causes of these pathologic traits, including the impaired signaling via thyroid hormone, calcium, and glutathione. We also found transcriptomic manifestations of increased cardiomyocyte polyploidy, such as the induction of gene modules related to open chromatin, e.g., "negative regulation of chromosome organization", "transcription" and "ribosome biogenesis". These findings suggest that ploidy-related epigenetic alterations acquired in the neonatal period permanently rewire gene regulatory networks and alter cardiomyocyte transcriptome. Here we provided first evidence indicating that NLI can be an important trigger of developmental programming of adult cardiovascular disease. The obtained results can help to develop preventive strategies for reducing the NLI-associated adverse effects of inflammation on the developing cardiovascular system.

Rodent Model Preclinical Assessment of PEGylated Block Copolymer Targeting Cognition and Oxidative Stress Insults of Alzheimer's Disease

Misfolded peptide amyloid beta (Aβ₄₂), neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau, oxidative damage to the brain, and neuroinflammation are distinguished determinants of Alzheimer's disease (AD) responsible for disease progression. This multifaceted neurodegenerative disease is challenging to cure under a single treatment regime until the key disease determinants are traced for their sequential occurrence in disease progression. In an early report, a novel side-chain tripeptide containing PEGylated block copolymer has been tested thoroughly in vitro and in silico for the early inhibition of Aβ₄₂ aggregation as well as degradation of preformed Aβ₄₂ fibril deposits. The present study demonstrates a preclinical assessment of the PEGylated block copolymer in colchicine-induced AD-mimicking rodent model. The colchicine-induced Wistar rats receiving an intranasal delivery of the block copolymer at a daily dosage of 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg body weights, respectively, for 14 days manifested a notable attenuation of behavioral deficit pattern, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitters' deficiency as compared to the untreated ones. The current study also reports the ameliorative property of the PEGylated compound for progressive neuroinflammation and decreased mitochondrial bioenergetics in astrocytoma cell line, viz., U87. A closer look into the drug mechanism of action of a compact 3D PEGylated block copolymer confirmed its disintegrative interaction with Aβ₄₂ fibril via in silico simulation. The results obtained from this study signify the potential of the novel PEGylated block copolymer to ameliorate the cognitive decline and progressive oxidative insults in AD and may envision a successful clinical phase trial. The amelioration of disease condition of colchicine-induced AD rat. Initially the rat has given colchicine via stereotaxic surgery which led to a mimicking condition of AD including neuronal death in hippocampal CA1 region. After recovery from the surgery, the rat was treated with the PEGylated block copolymer through intranasal delivery, and this has led to the decrease in neuronal death in hippocampal CA1 region. The mechanism of drug action has shown by the separation of monomer chains of Aβ₄₂.

Cellular Compartmentalization, Glutathione Transport and Its Relevance in Some Pathologies

Reduced glutathione (GSH) is the most abundant non-protein endogenous thiol. It is a ubiquitous molecule produced in most organs, but its synthesis is predominantly in the liver, the tissue in charge of storing and distributing it. GSH is involved in the detoxification of free radicals, peroxides and xenobiotics (drugs, pollutants, carcinogens, etc.), protects biological membranes from lipid peroxidation, and is an important regulator of cell homeostasis, since it participates in signaling redox, regulation of the synthesis and degradation of proteins (S-glutathionylation), signal transduction, various apoptotic processes, gene expression, cell proliferation, DNA and RNA synthesis, etc. GSH transport is a vital step in cellular homeostasis supported by the liver through providing extrahepatic organs (such as the kidney, lung, intestine, and brain, among others) with the said antioxidant. The wide range of functions within the cell in which glutathione is involved shows that glutathione’s role in cellular homeostasis goes beyond being a simple antioxidant agent; therefore, the importance of this tripeptide needs to be reassessed from a broader metabolic perspective.

The Combined Treatment of Glutathione Sodium Salt and Ascorbic Acid for Preventing Contrast-Associated Acute Kidney Injury in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Primary PCI: A Hypothesis to Be Validated

The occurrence of Contrast-Associated Acute Kidney Injury (CA-AKI) in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) has a negative impact on the length of hospital stay and mortality. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) release, along with vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion, play a key role in its development. To date, there is still no validated prophylactic therapy for this disease. The use of antioxidants, based on experimental and clinical studies, looks promising. Taking into consideration previous literature, we speculate that an early, combined and prolonged intravenous administration of both Glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid in STEMI patients undergoing primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (pPCI) may be of value in counteracting the occurrence of CA-AKI. We aimed at evaluating this hypothesis by applying a multicenter research protocol, using a double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial design. The primary endpoint will be to test the efficacy of this combined antioxidant therapy in reducing the occurrence of renal damage, in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with pPCI. Furthermore, we will investigate the effect of the study compounds on changes in oxidative stress markers and platelet activation levels through bio-humoral analyses.

Molecular Genetics of Abnormal Redox Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Numerous studies have shown that oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance between the production of free radicals and their neutralization by antioxidant enzymes is one of the major pathological disorders underlying the development and progression of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The present review summarizes the current state of the art advances in understanding the role of abnormal redox homeostasis in the molecular mechanisms of T2D and provides comprehensive information on the characteristics and biological functions of antioxidant and oxidative enzymes, as well as discusses genetic studies conducted so far in order to investigate the contribution of polymorphisms in genes encoding redox state-regulating enzymes to the disease pathogenesis.

A nitrosyl iron complex with 3.4-dichlorothiophenolyl ligands: synthesis, structures and its reactions with targets - carriers of nitrogen oxide (NO) in vivo

In this work, a new binuclear nitrosyl complex with 3.4-dichlorothiophenolyl ligands [Fe₂(SC₆H₃Cl₂)₂(NO)₄] has been synthesized. Nitrosyl iron complexes (NICs) are systems for the storage and delivery of NO in the body. There is a dynamic equilibrium between dinitrosyl iron units bound to low molecular weight ligands and high molecular weight (protein) ligands in vivo. From this point of view, the transformation of the studied complex in DMSO and buffer, as well as in biological systems, has been analyzed. In DMSO, it decomposes into mononuclear NICs, which quickly decay in buffer solutions with NO release. The high molecular weight product is formed as a result of the binding of the complex to bovine serum albumin (the Stern-Volmer constant is 2.1 × 10⁵ M^-1). In this case, the complex becomes a prolonged NO-donor. Such a long-term effect has been observed for the first time. Similarly, in a system with oxyhemoglobin, NO generation is slower; the UV-vis spectra show a gradual formation of methemoglobin. On the other hand, reduced glutathione has little effect on the NO-donor properties of the complex despite the fact that ligand substitution is observed in the system and a binuclear product is formed. Mucin binds the complex, and the decomposition mechanism is different from that for buffer solutions. Thus, these proteins and glutathione are able to participate in the transformation of the complex and modulate its properties as a potential drug.

The molecular and metabolic landscape of iron and ferroptosis in cardiovascular disease

The maintenance of iron homeostasis is essential for proper cardiac function. A growing body of evidence suggests that iron imbalance is the common denominator in many subtypes of cardiovascular disease. In the past 10 years, ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death, has become increasingly recognized as an important process that mediates the pathogenesis and progression of numerous cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, drug-induced heart failure, myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury, sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia and diabetic cardiomyopathy. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of iron metabolism and ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes might lead to improvements in disease management. In this Review, we summarize the relationship between the metabolic and molecular pathways of iron signalling and ferroptosis in the context of cardiovascular disease. We also discuss the potential targets of ferroptosis in the treatment of cardiovascular disease and describe the current limitations and future directions of these novel treatment targets.

Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on oxidative stress parameters and sex hormone levels of modern genotype sows

BACKGROUND

Sows are exposed to severe stress and hormonal challenges during their whole productive life. As polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role in immune and reproductive functions, with a better understanding of their role in breeding sows' nutrition, improved performance and more sustainable pig production can be achieved.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we investigated the effects of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the antioxidant status and hormone levels of sows.

METHODS

A total of 48 Danish Large white × Danish Landrace sows were supplemented either with sunflower oil (SO) as a control group or with fish oil (FO) as experimental group at the same dose of 10 g/kg feed. Blood samples were collected on day 14 of lactation, 5 days after weaning (insemination), and 30 days after insemination. To estimate antioxidant and reproductive effects, the amounts of reduced glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), serum 17β oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (6-keto PGF1α) levels were investigated.

RESULTS

FO-based supplementation increased GPx activity on day 14 of lactation. Five days after weaning, the concentration of GSH in FO-fed sows was significantly higher than that in SO-fed sows. The E2 content of blood was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group for two of the three examined periods (day 14 of lactation and 30 days after insemination), whereas P4 levels were significantly higher in the experimental group 5 days after weaning. We found that 6-keto PGF1α levels were systematically lower in the experimental group throughout the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence of the major impact of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids on the tested hormone levels, which serve as precursors for the production of E2 and P4 but have an opposite effect on PGF2α production.

Effects of glutathione on mitochondrial DNA and antioxidant enzyme activities in Drosophila melanogaster

The free radical theory in aging assumes that the accumulation of macromolecular damage induced by toxic reactive oxygen species plays a central role in the aging process. The intake of nutritional antioxidants can prevent this damage by neutralizing reactive oxygen derivatives. Glutathione (GSH; en-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinyl glycine) is the lowest molecular weight thiol in the cells and as a cofactor of many enzymes and a potent antioxidant plays an important role in maintaining normal cell functions by destroying toxic oxygen radicals. In this study, the effects of GSH on SOD, GST and catalase enzymes and mtDNA damage were investigated at various time intervals by giving reduced glutathione to Drosophila. It was observed that 3-week GSH administration did not have a statistically significant effect on SOD and GST activities whereas GSH application decreased the catalase enzyme activities significantly. Although the decrease in antioxidant capacity with age was observed in SOD and catalase enzymes, such a situation was not observed in GST enzyme activities. There was no statistically significant difference between the control and GSH groups in mtDNA copy number values, while in the GSH group, oxidative mtDNA damage was high. These results may be due to the prooxidant effect of GSH at the dose used in this study.

Protective Biomolecular Mechanisms of Glutathione Sodium Salt in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is responsible for adverse outcomes in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Oxidative stress, resulting from the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and low availability of Glutathione (GSH), are the two main mediators of IRI. The effectiveness of exogenous antioxidant therapy in this scenario is still debated, since the encouraging results obtained in animal models have not been fully reproduced in clinical studies. In this review we focus on the role of GSH, specifically on the biomolecular mechanisms that preserve myocardial cells from damage due to reperfusion. In this regard, we provide an extensive discussion about GSH intrinsic antioxidant properties, its current applications in clinical practice, and the future perspectives.

Redox-responsive polyurethane-polyurea nanoparticles targeting to aortic endothelium and atherosclerosis

Aortic endothelial cell dysfunction is an early trigger of atherosclerosis, the major cause of the cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nanomedicines targeting vascular endothelium and lesions hold great promise as therapeutic solutions to vascular disorders. This study investigates the vascular delivery efficacy of polyurethane-polyurea nanocapsules (Puua-NCs) with pH-synchronized shell cationization and redox-triggered release. Fluorescent lipophilic dye DiI was encapsulated into Puua-NCs of variable sizes and concentrations. In vitro cellular uptake studies with human aortic endothelial cells showed that these Puua-NCs were taken up by cells in a dose-dependent manner. In apolipoprotein E-deficient mice fed a Western diet, a model of atherosclerosis, circulating Puua-NCs were stable and accumulated in aortic endothelium and lesions within 24 hours after intravenous administration. Treatment with thiol-reducing and oxidizing reagents disrupted the disulfide bonds on the surface of internalized NCs, triggering disassembly and intracellular cargo release. Ultimately, Puua-NCs are a potential redox-controllable cardiovascular drug delivery system.

Mapping current research and identifying hotspots of ferroptosis in cardiovascular diseases

OBJECTIVE

Ferroptosis is a unique cell death depended on iron metabolism disorder which is different from previous apoptosis-regulated cell death. Early studies have proposed that ferroptosis is closely associated with multiple cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, the relationship of ferroptosis and CVDs has not been summarized by using bibliometric analysis. We intended to illustrate the development of ferroptosis in CVDs over the past years and provide relevant valuable information.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authoritative database of Web of Science Core Collection was collected for retrieving ferroptosis studies in CVDs. In this work, statistical and visualization analysis were conducted using VOSviewer and Citespace.

RESULTS

A total of 263 studies were included in the final study. From the perspective of the overall literature, the study maintains an increased trend year by year and most manuscripts belonged to original article. China was the most productive country with the utmost scientific research output, as well as the institutions and authors, followed by Germany and the United States of America (USA). Jun Peng from China contributes to the most publications. Collaborative efforts between institutes and authors were limited and there was little widespread cooperation. In addition, burst keywords analysis discovered that ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, heart failure (HF), and atherosclerosis were the top three research directions of ferroptosis in CVDs. The burst investigation and timeline views also indicated that endothelial injury and gut microbiota may also serve as new research topics in the future.

CONCLUSION

This study provided comprehensive and specific information about the most influential articles on ferroptosis in CVDs. The relationship between ferroptosis and CVDs had attracted the scholar's concerns especially in China. Cooperations and communications between countries and institutions should be emphasized and future directions can be concentrated on endothelial disorder and gut microbiota.

Enduring Reactive Oxygen Species Emission Causes Aberrant Protein S-Glutathionylation Transitioning Human Aortic Valve Cells from a Sclerotic to a Stenotic Phenotype

Aims: During calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) progression, oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction mark the initial pathogenic steps with a parallel dysregulation of the antioxidant systems. Here, we tested whether oxidation-induced protein S-glutathionylation (P-SSG) accounts for a phenotypic switch in human aortic valvular tissue, eventually leading to calcium deposition. Next, we tested whether countering this reactive oxygen species (ROS) surge would prevent these perturbations. Results: We employed state-of-the-art technologies, such as electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, imaging flow-cytometry, and live-cell imaging on human excised aortic valves and primary valve endothelial cells (VECs). We observed that a net rise in EPR-detected ROS emission marked the transition from fibrotic to calcific in human CAVS specimens, coupled to a progressive increment in P-SSG deposition. In human VECs (hVECs), treatment with 2-acetylamino-3-[4-(2-acetylamino-2-carboxyethylsulfanylthiocarbonylamino)phenylthiocarbamoylsulfanyl]propionic acid triggered highly oxidizing conditions prompting P-SSG accumulation, damaging mitochondria, and inducing endothelial nitric oxide synthase uncoupling. All the events conjured up in morphing these cells from their native endothelial phenotype into a damaged calcification-inducing one. As proof of principle, the use of the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine prevented these alterations. Innovation: Borne as a compensatory system to face excessive oxidative burden, with time, P-SSG contributes to the morphing of hVECs from their innate phenotype into a damaged one, paving the way to calcium deposition. Conclusion: Our data suggest that, in the human aortic valve, unremitted ROS emission along with a P-SSG build-up occurs and accounts, at least in part, for the morphological/functional changes leading to CAVS. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 1051-1071.

ROS-triggered endothelial cell death mechanisms: Focus on pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis

The endothelium is a single layer of epithelium covering the surface of the vascular system, and it represents a physical barrier between the blood and vessel wall that plays an important role in maintaining intravascular homeostasis. However, endothelial dysfunction or endothelial cell death can cause vascular barrier disruption, vasoconstriction and diastolic dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, inflammatory responses, and thrombosis, which are closely associated with the progression of several diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, ischemic stroke, acute lung injury, acute kidney injury, diabetic retinopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. Oxidative stress caused by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an important mechanism underlying endothelial cell death. Growing evidence suggests that ROS can trigger endothelial cell death in various ways, including pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis. Therefore, this review will systematically illustrate the source of ROS in endothelial cells (ECs); reveal the molecular mechanism by which ROS trigger pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis in ECs; and provide new ideas for the research and treatment of endothelial dysfunction-related diseases.

Glutathione: A Samsonian life-sustaining small molecule that protects against oxidative stress, ageing and damaging inflammation

Many local and systemic diseases especially diseases that are leading causes of death globally like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, atherosclerosis with ischemic heart disease and stroke, cancer and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), involve both, (1) oxidative stress with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that lower glutathione (GSH) levels, and (2) inflammation. The GSH tripeptide (γ- L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine), the most abundant water-soluble non-protein thiol in the cell (1-10 mM) is fundamental for life by (a) sustaining the adequate redox cell signaling needed to maintain physiologic levels of oxidative stress fundamental to control life processes, and (b) limiting excessive oxidative stress that causes cell and tissue damage. GSH activity is facilitated by activation of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-antioxidant response element (ARE) redox regulator pathway, releasing Nrf2 that regulates expression of genes controlling antioxidant, inflammatory and immune system responses. GSH exists in the thiol-reduced (>98% of total GSH) and disulfide-oxidized (GSSG) forms, and the concentrations of GSH and GSSG and their molar ratio are indicators of the functionality of the cell. GSH depletion may play a central role in inflammatory diseases and COVID-19 pathophysiology, host immune response and disease severity and mortality. Therapies enhancing GSH could become a cornerstone to reduce severity and fatal outcomes of inflammatory diseases and COVID-19 and increasing GSH levels may prevent and subdue these diseases. The life value of GSH makes for a paramount research field in biology and medicine and may be key against systemic inflammation and SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease. In this review, we emphasize on (1) GSH depletion as a fundamental risk factor for diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atherosclerosis (ischemic heart disease and stroke), (2) importance of oxidative stress and antioxidants in SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease, (3) significance of GSH to counteract persistent damaging inflammation, inflammaging and early (premature) inflammaging associated with cell and tissue damage caused by excessive oxidative stress and lack of adequate antioxidant defenses in younger individuals, and (4) new therapies that include antioxidant defenses restoration.

Dietary Supplementation with D-Ribose-L-Cysteine Prevents Hepatic Stress and Pro-Inflammatory Responses in Male Wistar Rats Fed a High-Fructose High-Fat Diet

Diets rich in fats and fructose are associated with the pathogenesis of oxidative stress-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Therefore, we investigated the effect of D-ribose-L-cysteine (DRLC) in high-fructose high-fat (HFHF) diet-fed rats. Twenty rats (n = 5), divided into four groups, were simultaneously exposed to HFHF and/or DRLC (250 mg/kg) orally during the 8 weeks of the study. Results showed that HFHF precipitated pro-inflammation and selective disruption of the oxidative stress markers. There were significant decreases in the level of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), hepatic SOD and GPX. Significant increases in serum levels of uric acid (UA), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP) and hepatic Xanthine oxidase (XO) were observed in the HFHF compared to the control. In the HFHF + DRLC group, oxidative stress was mitigated due to differences in serum levels of SOD, GPX, TAC, TNF-α, liver SOD, and XO relative to control. The administration of DRLC alone caused significant reductions in malondialdehyde, UA and CRP and a significant increase in SOD compared to the control. DRLC prevents hepatic and systemic oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory events in HFHF diet-fed rats.

Insights into stimuli-responsive diselenide bonds utilized in drug delivery systems for cancer therapy

Due to the complexity and particularity of cancer cell microenvironments, redox responsive drug delivery systems (DDSs) for cancer therapy have been extensively explored. Compared with widely reported cancer treatment systems based on disulfide bonds, diselenide bonds have better redox properties and greater anticancer efficiency. In this review, the significance and application of diselenide bonds in DDSs are summarized, and the stimulation sensitivity of diselenide bonds is comprehensively reported. The potential and prospects for the application of diselenide bonds in next-generation anticancer drug treatment systems are extensively discussed.

Study of the Association between Thiols and Oxidative Stress Markers in Children with Obesity

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, and the World Health Organization defined childhood overweight and obesity as a noncommunicable disease that represents the most serious public health challenges of the twenty-first century. Oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants causing an impairment of the redox signals, is linked to the development of metabolic diseases. In addition, reactive oxygen species generated during metabolic disorder could increase inflammation, causing the development of insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. We analyze serum levels of cysteine (Cys), cysteinyl-glycine (Cys-Gly), homocysteine (Hcy), and glutathione (GSH), and other markers of oxidative stress, such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (T-BARS), 8-isoprostane, and protein carbonyl in our children with obesity. Total antioxidant status was also determined. We found lower GSH and Cys-Gly levels, and higher Hcy and oxidative stress markers levels. We also found a positive correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI), Cys, GSH, and Hcy levels, between insulin and Cys levels, and between BMI and the homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) with 8-isoprostane levels. Finally, we found a correlation between age and GSH and Cys levels. The deficiency of GSH could be restored by dietary supplementation with GSH precursors, supplying an inexpensive approach to oppose oxidative stress, thus avoiding obesity complications.

Rodent model preclinical assessment of PEGylated block copolymer targeting cognition and oxidative stress insults of Alzheimer’s disease.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1907312/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Misfolded peptide amyloid beta (Aβ42), neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau, oxidative damage to the brain, neuroinflammation are distinguished determinants of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) responsible for disease progression. This multifaceted neurodegenerative disease is challenging to cure under a single treatment regime until the key disease-determinants are traced for their sequential occurrence in disease progression. In an early report, a novel side-chain tripeptide containing PEGylated block copolymer has been tested thoroughly in vitro and in silico for the early inhibition of Aβ42-aggregation as well as degradation of preformed Aβ42-fibril deposits. The present study demonstrates a preclinical assessment of the PEGylated block copolymer in colchicine-induced AD mimicking rodent model. The colchicine induced Wistar rats receiving an intranasal delivery of the block copolymer at a daily dosage of 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg body weights respectively for 14 days manifested a notable attenuation of behavioral deficit pattern, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitters’ deficiency as compared to the untreated ones. The current study also reports the ameliorative property of the PEGylated compound for progressive neuroinflammation and decreased mitochondrial bioenergetics in astrocytoma cell line viz. U87. A closer look into the drug mechanism of action of a compact three-dimensional PEGylated block copolymer confirmed its disintegrative interaction with Aβ42 fibril via in silico simulation. The results obtained herein this study signify the potential of the novel PEGylated block copolymer to ameliorate the cognitive decline and progressive oxidative insults in AD, and may envision a successful clinical phase trial.

Effect of solvents and glutathione on the decomposition of the nitrosyl iron complex with N-ethylthiourea ligands: An experimental and theoretical study

Dinitrosyl iron complexes (DNICs) are a depot and potential source of free NO in organisms. Their synthetic analog, N-ethylthiourea DNIC [Fe(SC(NH₂)(NHC₂H₅))₂(NO)₂]⁺Cl^-∙[Fe(SC(NH₂)(NHC₂H₅))Cl(NO)₂]⁰ (complex 1), as cardioprotective and cytostatic agent is a promising prodrug for the treatment of socially relevant diseases. In this work, transformation mechanism of complex 1 has been studied in anaerobic aqueous solution (pH = 7.0), DMSO, and ethanol. It was shown that the solvent has a significant effect on the decomposition of complex. According to EPR-spectroscopy, only cationic part of complex is found upon its dissolution in water; only neutral part is retained in DMSO, and both fragments are present in ethanol. Effective generation of NO occurs in an aqueous solution. The structures of the decomposition products were proposed for all solvents, their UV-spectra and rate constants were calculated. From the experimental and theoretical data obtained, it follows that complex 1 is most stable in DMSO. Solutions of complex in a DMSO-water mixture can be used to improve its bioavailability in further in vitro and in vivo studies. Also, we have analyzed its interaction with glutathione (GSH), which can participate in the metabolism of this compound. This study shows that complex 1 reacts with GSH to form a new binuclear DNIC with two GS^--ligands. It was found that the resulting complex is a more prolonged NO-donor than the initial one: k = 6.1∙10^-3·s^-1 in buffer, k = 6.4∙10^-5 s^-1 with GSH. This reaction may prevent S-glutathionylation of the essential enzyme systems and is important for metabolism of complex, associated with its antitumor activity.

Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress Tethered to Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a broad term that incorporated a group of conditions that affect the blood vessels and the heart. CVD is a foremost cause of fatalities around the world. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in CVD; however, oxidative stress plays a vital role in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress occurs when the concentration of oxidants exceeds the potency of antioxidants within the body while producing reactive nitrogen species (RNS). ROS generated by oxidative stress disrupts cell signaling, DNA damage, lipids, and proteins, thereby resulting in inflammation and apoptosis. Mitochondria is the primary source of ROS production within cells. Increased ROS production reduces nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, which elevates vasoconstriction within the arteries and contributes to the development of hypertension. ROS production has also been linked to the development of atherosclerotic plaque. Antioxidants can decrease oxidative stress in the body; however, various therapeutic drugs have been designed to treat oxidative stress damage due to CVD. The present review provides a detailed narrative of the oxidative stress and ROS generation with a primary focus on the oxidative stress biomarker and its association with CVD. We have also discussed the complex relationship between inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in CVD as well as oxidative stress-induced obesity in CVD. Finally, we discussed the role of antioxidants in reducing oxidative stress in CVD.

Impact of Hydrotherapy on Antioxidant Enzyme Activity in an Elderly Population

Oxidative stress is defined as the imbalance between reactive species and antioxidant agents. One of the effects of oxidative stress is the normal process of cellular aging that stems from the accumulation of tissue damage. Epidemiological studies show that regular physical exercise prevents the injuries caused by aging. The objective was to evaluate whether the practice of hydrotherapy, in an elderly population, positively influenced the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and reductase that act by reducing reactive species in the body. The study involved 37 participants aged ≥ 60 years, of both sexes, divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group performed 15 hydrotherapy sessions. Enzyme activity was evaluated in two moments: T0-before the first session, and T1-after the last session, with blood collections conducted in both. In T1, there was a significant increase vs. T0 of glutathione peroxidase activity (57.72 ± 19.99 vs. 48.14 ± 17.22 U/g Hb) and glutathione reductase activity (100.18 ± 30.85 vs. 78.44 ± 21.26 U/L). Both sexes tended to show higher values at T1. We concluded that hydrotherapy proved to be a positive stimulus for the enzymatic antioxidant activity of the elderly, suggesting that a regular and moderate practice of physical exercise induces better and higher quality of life.

Hibiscus, Rooibos, and Yerba Mate for Healthy Aging: A Review on the Attenuation of In Vitro and In Vivo Markers Related to Oxidative Stress, Glycoxidation, and Neurodegeneration

The world is currently undergoing a demographic change towards an increasing number of elderly citizens. Aging is characterized by a temporal decline in physiological capacity, and oxidative stress is a hallmark of aging and age-related disorders. Such an oxidative state is linked to a decrease in the effective mechanisms of cellular repair, the incidence of post-translational protein glycation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodegeneration, just to name some of the markers contributing to the establishment of age-related reduction-oxidation, or redox, imbalance. Currently, there are no prescribed therapies to control oxidative stress; however, there are strategies to elevate antioxidant defenses and overcome related health challenges based on the adoption of nutritional therapies. It is well known that herbal teas such, as hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate, are important sources of antioxidants, able to prevent some oxidation-related stresses. These plants produce several bioactive metabolites, have a pleasant taste, and a long-lasting history as safe foods. This paper reviews the literature on hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate teas in the context of nutritional strategies for the attenuation of oxidative stress-related glycoxidation and neurodegeneration, and, here, Alzheimer’s Disease is approached as an example. The focus is given to mechanisms of glycation inhibition, as well as neuroprotective in vitro effects, and, in animal studies, to frame interest in these plants as nutraceutical agents related to current health concerns.

Improved Cytocompatibility and Reduced Calcification of Glutaraldehyde-Crosslinked Bovine Pericardium by Modification With Glutathione

Bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs) used in clinics are fabricated via glutaraldehyde (GLUT) crosslinking, which results in cytotoxicity and causes eventual valve calcification after implantation into the human body; therefore, the average lifetime and application of BHVs are limited. To address these issues, the most commonly used method is modification with amino acids, such as glycine (GLY), which is proven to effectively reduce toxicity and calcification. In this study, we used the l-glutathione (GSH) in a new modification treatment based on GLUT-crosslinked bovine pericardium (BP) as the GLUT + GSH group, BPs crosslinked with GLUT as GLUT-BP (control group), and GLY modification based on GLUT-BP as the GLUT + GLY group. We evaluated the characteristics of BPs in different treatment groups in terms of biomechanical properties, cell compatibility, aldehyde group content detection, and the calcification content. Aldehyde group detection tests showed that the GSH can completely neutralize the residual aldehyde group of GLUT-BP. Compared with that of GLUT-BP, the endothelial cell proliferation rate of the GLUT + GSH group increased, while its hemolysis rate and the inflammatory response after implantation into the SD rat were reduced. The results show that GSH can effectively improve the cytocompatibility of the GLUT-BP tissue. In addition, the results of the uniaxial tensile test, thermal shrinkage temperature, histological and SEM evaluation, and enzyme digestion experiments proved that GSH did not affect the ECM stability and biomechanics of the GLUT-BP. The calcification level of GLUT-BP modified using GSH technology decreased by 80%, indicating that GSH can improve the anti-calcification performance of GLUT-BP. Compared with GLUT-GLY, GLUT + GSH yielded a higher cell proliferation rate and lower inflammatory response and calcification level. GSH can be used as a new type of anti-calcification agent in GLUT crosslinking biomaterials and is expected to expand the application domain for BHVs in the future.

The interaction between long non-coding RNA LINC01564 and POU2F1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer

Background

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve as key regulators in tumor development and progression. However, only a few lncRNAs have been functionally characterized in gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to find lncRNAs that are associated with GC metastasis. RNA FISH, RIP, and RNA pull down assays were used to study the complementary binding of LINC01564 complementary to the 3′UTR of transcription factor POU2F1. The transcription activation of LINC01564 by POU2F1 as a transcription factor was examined by ChIP assay. In vitro assays such as MTT, cell invasion assay, and clonogenic assay were conducted to examined the impacts of LINC01564 and POU2F1 on GC cell proliferation and invasion. Experiments in vivo were performed to access the impacts of LINC01564 and POU2F1 on GC metastasis.

Results

The results showed that LINC01564 complementary bound to the 3′UTR of POU2F1 to form an RNA duplex, whereby stabilizing POU2F1 mRNA and increasing the enrichment in cells. The level of LINC01564 was also increased by POU2F1 through transcription activation. In vitro assays showed that LINC01564 promoted the proliferation, invasion and migration of GC cells through increasing POU2F1. In vivo experiments indicate the promotion of GC proliferation and metastasis by the interaction between LINC01564 and POU2F1.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results indicate that the interaction between LINC01564 and POU2F1 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of GC cells.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03391-x.