Lycopene ameliorates oxidative stress in the aging chicken ovary via activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Zuogui Pills alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian aging by reducing oxidative stress and restoring the stemness of oogonial stem cells through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zuogui Pill (ZGP) is a traditional herbal formula of Chinese Medicine with a long history of use in alleviating ovarian aging.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the impact of ZGP on oxidative stress and the stemness of oogonial stem cells (OSCs) in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced ovarian aging, as well as its molecular mechanisms involving the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2, NFE2L2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1, Hmox1) pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into seven groups: control, model (CTX), estradiol valerate (EV, 0.103 mg/kg), ZGP-L (low dose Zuogui Pill, 1.851 g/kg), ZGP-H (high dose Zuogui Pill, 3.702 g/kg), ML385 (30 mg/kg), and ML385+ZGP-L. After CTX modeling, the EV, ZGP-L, ZGP-H, and ML385+ZGP-L groups were treated by gavage for 8 weeks, while the ML385 and ML385+ZGP-L groups were administered the Nrf2 antagonist ML385 twice a week. OSCs were isolated after modeling and then treated with drug serum containing 10% ZGP or 10 μM ML385. The general conditions of the rats, including body weight, ovarian weight/body weight ratio, and estrous cycle, were observed. Ovarian ultrastructure, follicle and corpus luteum counts were assessed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Serum hormone levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, stem cell, germ cell, and cell cycle biomarkers were analyzed by qPCR and Western blot. Cell viability was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated using flow cytometry and assay kits. Immunofluorescence was employed to detect and locate OSCs in the ovary, quantify the average fluorescence intensity, and identify OSCs.

RESULTS

After ZGP treatment, rats with CTX-induced ovarian aging exhibited improved general condition, increased body weight, higher total ovarian weight to body weight ratio, and a restoration of the estrous cycle similar to the control group. Serum levels of estradiol (E2) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), two sex hormones, were also improved. Ovarian ultrastructure and follicle count at all stages showed improvement. Moreover, the viability and proliferation capacity of OSCs were enhanced following ZGP intervention. The Nrf2/HO-1 pathway was found to be down-regulated in CTX-induced aging ovarian OSCs. However, ZGP reversed this effect by activating the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NAD(P)H oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and reducing the accumulation of malonaldehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus restoring resistance to oxidative stress. Additionally, ZGP improved the cell cycle of OSCs, up-regulated the expression of Cyclin D1 and Cyclin E1, restored cell stemness, promoted proliferation, enhanced the expression of cell stemness markers octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) and mouse VASA homolog (MVH), and down-regulated the expression of P21, thereby inhibiting apoptosis. The therapeutic effects of ZGP against oxidative stress and restoration of cell stemness were attenuated following inhibition of the Nrf2 signaling pathway using ML385.

CONCLUSIONS

ZGP protected against CTX-induced ovarian aging by restoring normal ovarian function, alleviating oxidative stress in aging OSCs, promoting OSCs proliferation, and restoring their stemness in rats, possibly through regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Age-related changes in the mitochondrial, synthesis of steroids, and cellular homeostasis of the chicken ovary

In poultry reproduction, the decline of ovarian function due to aging is related to dysfunction of mitochondria exacerbated by a reduction in antioxidant capacity, ultimately leading to follicle atresia and decreased egg production. However, the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in the chicken ovary in aging have remained to be understood. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of aging on mitochondrial function and cellular homeostasis. We collect ovarian tissue, small white follicles (SWF), large white follicles (LWF), and small yellow follicles (SYF) from three different laying periods of hens. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results showed that mitochondrial damage occurred in ovarian tissue during the late laying period (LP), characterized by structural swelling, scattered mitochondrial cristae, and an increase in the vacuoles. At the same time, with age, the synthesis of steroid hormones in the ovaries and follicular tissues is reduced. The levels of autophagy and cell apoptosis in ovarian tissues were both increased in the LP. In addition, aging adversely impacts mitochondrial function, leading to a decrease in mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) functions. This study will expand the knowledge about regressing ovarian aging in hens and increasing egg production in older layers for poultry production.

Follicular fluid-derived exosomal HMOX1 promotes granulosa cell ferroptosis involved in follicular atresia in geese (Anser cygnoides)

The proliferation and death of granulosa cells (GCs) in poultry play a decisive role in follicular fate and egg production. The follicular fluid (FF) contains a variety of nutrients and genetic substances to ensure the communication between follicular cells. Exosomes, as a new intercellular communication, could carry and transport the proteins, RNA, and lipids to react on GCs, which had been found in FF of various domestic animals. Whether exosomes of FF in poultry play a similar role is unclear. In this study, geese, a poultry with low egg production, were chosen, and the effect of FF exosomes on the proliferation and death of GCs was investigated. Firstly, there were not only a large number of healthy small yellow follicles (HSYFs) but also some atresia small yellow follicles (ASYFs) in the egg-laying stage. Also, the GC layers of ASYFs became loose interconnections, inward detachment, and diminished survival rate than that of HSYFs. Besides, compared to HSYFs, the contents of E2, P4, and the mRNA expression levels of ferroptosis-related genes GPX4, FPN1, and FTH1 were significantly decreased, while COX2, NCOA4, VDAC3 mRNA were significantly increased, and the structure of mitochondrial cristae disappeared and the outer membrane broke in the GC layers of ASYFs. Moreover, the ROS, MDA, and oxidation levels in the GC layers of ASYFs were significantly higher than those of HSYFs. All these hinted that ferroptosis might result in a large number of GCs death and involvement in follicle atresia. Secondly, FF exosomes were isolated from HSYFs and ASYFs, respectively, and identified by TEM, NTA, and detection of exosome marker proteins. Also, we found the exosomes were phagocytic by GCs by tracking CM-Dil. Moreover, the addition of ASYF-FF exosomes significantly elevated the MDA content, Fe2+ levels, and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in GCs, thus significantly inhibiting the proliferation of GCs, which was restored by the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1. Thirdly, the proteomic sequencing was performed between FF-derived exosomes of HSYFs and ASYFs. We obtained 1615 differentially expressed proteins, which were mainly enriched in the protein transport and ferroptosis pathways. Among them, HMOX1 was enriched in the ferroptosis pathway based on differential protein-protein interaction network analysis. Finally, the role of HMOX1 in regulating ferroptosis in GCs was further explored. The highly expressed HMOX1 was observed in the exosomes of ASYF-FF than that in HSYF-FF. Overexpression of HMOX1 increased ATG5, LC3II, and NCOA4 expression and reduced the expression of FTH1, GPX4, PCBP2, FPN1 in the ferroptosis pathway, also promoted intracellular Fe2+ accumulation and MDA surge, which drove ferroptosis in GCs. The effects of HMOX1 on ferroptosis could be blocked by its inhibitor Znpp. Taken together, the important protein HMOX1 was identified in FF, which could be delivered to GCs via exosomes, triggering ferroptosis and thus determining the fate of follicles.

Effects of chlorogenic acid on productive and reproductive performances, egg quality, antioxidant functions, and intestinal microenvironment in aged breeder laying hens

This study investigated the effects of dietary chlorogenic acid (CGA) on the productive and reproductive performance, egg quality, antioxidant function, and intestinal microenvironment of laying hens. Thus, 162 healthy Hy-Line Brown breeding hens (63 weeks old) were randomly allocated to 3 groups, each receiving a basal diet plus supplementation: 0, 250, and 500 mg/kg CGA, respectively. Per the in vitro test, CGA had obvious inhibitory effects on Salmonella enteritis and avian pathogenic Escherichia coli and strong free radical scavenging ability. Per the breeder laying hen experiment, the CGA diets had no significant influence on egg production or reproductive performance (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, compared with the control diet, 250 mg/kg CGA significantly increased eggshell thickness, egg weight, yolk color, and Haugh unit (P < 0.05). Compared with the control diet and 500 mg/kg CGA, 250 mg/kg CGA significantly (P < 0.05) elevated antioxidant capacity by reducing serum malondialdehyde content, upregulating heme oxygenase-1, and downregulating heat shock proteins mRNA levels in the ileum. Compared with the control diet and 500 mg/kg CGA, 250 mg/kg CGA (P < 0.05) enhanced intestinal barrier function, shown by the upregulation of ileal Occludin and Mucin-2 mRNA levels; furthermore, 250 mg/kg CGA (P < 0.05) increased anti-apoptotic capacity by increasing B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 gene expression and downregulated Bcl2 Associated X mRNA levels in the liver and ileum of late breeder laying hens (P < 0.05). Lastly, 250 mg/kg CGA (P < 0.05) increased cecal g_CHKCI001 and short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria g_Prevotellaceae UCG-001, positively related to gut health, and in the cecum, 500 mg/kg CGA significantly (P < 0.05) increased g_Shuttleworthia abundance, negatively related to gut health. Our findings suggest that dietary inclusion of 250 mg/kg CGA promotes egg quality, intestinal microbial composition, gut barrier integrity, and the antioxidant capacity of aged breeder laying hens.

Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus improves production performance and egg quality of laying breeder hens by regulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant function, immunity and intestinal health

Alpiniae oxyphylla fructus was extensively utilized both as dietary supplements and traditional herbal medicines for healthcare functions and has exhibited a positive impact on animal health. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus powder (AOP) on production performance, egg quality, egg yolk fatty acid composition, reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, anti-apoptosis ability, and intestinal health in hens. A total of 252 Hainan Wenchang laying hens (30-wk-old) were randomly divided into 3 groups with 6 replicates, a basic diet with 0 (CON), 1 g/kg AOP (AOP1), and 3 g/kg (AOP3) mixed AOP. The AOP supplementation was found to decrease the feed conversion ratio and embryo mortality but to increase the laying rate, average egg weight, and oviduct index linearly (p < 0.05). Furthermore, AOP treatment reduced the total saturated fatty acids and palmitic acid (C16:0) in the egg yolk while increasing eggshell strength, albumen height, and Haugh unit (p < 0.05). The serum levels of albumin and phosphorus were increased, whereas total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose levels decreased as a result of AOP treatment (p < 0.05). The inclusion of 3 g/kg AOP had higher 17 β-estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone levels in serum, while it up-regulated follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and gonadotropin-releasing hormone expression in ovary (p < 0.05). Dietary AOP strengthened the expression of nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2 in ovary and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity, but had a lower malondialdehyde content in serum (p < 0.05). AOP at 3 g/kg up-regulated superoxide dismutase 1 and heme oxygenase 1 expression in jejunum and ovary (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, AOP supplementation down-regulated p53 expression in ovary and bcl-2-associated x expression in liver and jejunum, especially 3 g/kg of AOP had lower caspase-8 concentrations and down-regulated bcl-2-associated x and caspase-3 expression in ovary (p < 0.05). AOP treatment increased serum levels of immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin M and upregulated interleukin-4 expression in the liver, while decreasing interleukin-1β expression in liver and ovary and nod-like receptor protein 3 expression in jejunum (p < 0.05). Dietary AOP increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth but decreased crypt depth in jejunum, especially when 1 g/kg AOP increased expression levels of occludin, mucin-2, peptide-transporter 1, and sodium glucose cotransporter 1 in jejunum (p < 0.05). AOP treatment altered the composition of the cecal microbial community, as evidenced by increased abundance of Oscillospira and Phascolarctobacterium and reduced richness of Clostridiaceae_Clostridium. Dietary AOP supplementation enriched lipid, amino acid, and propanoate metabolism. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed that the genera Oscillospira, Blautia, and Megasphaera were related to laying performance and intestinal integrity. In brief, supplementation of AOP, especially at 3 g/kg, could improve production performance and egg quality of hens via modulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, intestinal barrier, and cecal microbiota. Overall, the present work recommends the dietary inclusion of AOP as a beneficial additive for improving the performance of hens.

Application of ionic liquid ultrasound-assisted extraction (IL-UAE) of lycopene from guava (Psidium guajava L.) by response surface methodology and artificial neural network-genetic algorithm

Lycopene-rich guava (Psidium guajava L.) exhibits significant economic potential as a functional food ingredient, making it highly valuable for the pharmaceutical and agro-food industries. However, there is a need to enhance the extraction methods of lycopene to fully exploit its beneficial uses. In this study, we evaluated various ionic liquids to identify the most effective one for extracting lycopene from guava. Among thirteen ionic liquids with varying carbon chains or anions, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride demonstrated the highest productivity. Subsequently, a single-factor experiment was employed to test the impact of several parameters on the efficiency of lycopene extraction using this selected ionic liquid. These parameters included extraction time, ultrasonic power, liquid-solid ratio, concentration of the ionic liquid, as well as material particle size. Moreover, models of artificial neural networks using genetic algorithms (ANN-GA) and response surface methodology (RSM) were employed to comprehensively assess the first four key parameters. The optimized conditions for ionic liquid ultrasound-assisted extraction (IL-UAE) were determined as follows: 33 min of extraction time, 225 W of ultrasonic power, 22 mL/g of liquid-solid ratio, 3.0 mol/L of IL concentration, and extraction cycles of three. Under these conditions, lycopene production reached an impressive yield of 9.35 ± 0.36 mg/g while offering advantages such as high efficiency, time savings, preservation benefits, and most importantly environmental friendliness.

Comparison of the effects of chlorogenic acid isomers and their compounds on alleviating oxidative stress injury in broilers

The development of large-scale and intensive breeding models has led to increasingly prominent oxidative stress issues in animal husbandry production. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is an important extract with a variety of biological activities. It is an effective antioxidant drug and shows different antioxidant capacities due to its different chemical structures. Therefore, it is a new research target to determine the proportion of chlorogenic acid isomers with high antioxidant activity to resist the damage caused by oxidative stress. In this experiment, the antioxidant activities of the chlorogenic acid monomer and its compounds were compared by a series of in vitro antioxidant indexes. Based on the above experiments, it was found that LB and LC have superior antioxidant abilities (P < 0.05). Subsequently, 300 healthy 1-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) male broilers with no significant difference in body weight (about 44 g) were randomly selected and randomly divided into 5 groups with 6 replicates in each group and 10 chickens in each replicate. One group was the control group, 1 group was the model group, and the remaining 3 groups were the experimental groups. At 37 d of age, animals in the control group were injected with normal saline, and animals in the other 4 groups were injected with 1 mL/kg 5% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) through the chest muscle before the supplementation. The control group (control) and the model group (PC) were fed a standard diet. The remaining 3 groups included the CGA group, LB group (CIB), and LC group (CIC). In these groups, 50 g/t chlorogenic acid, LB compound, or LC compound were added to the basal diet, respectively, and the other feeding conditions remained consistent. The addition of the LB complex to the diet could significantly improve the growth performance and antioxidant performance of broilers (P < 0.05), upregulate the expression of Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway-related genes in liver and jejunum (P < 0.05), regulate the disordered intestinal flora, and alleviate the damage caused by oxidative stress. These results suggested for the first time that the LB complex exhibited superior effects in vitro and vivo.

Supplementation of the Combination of Quercetin and Vitamin E Alleviates the Effects of Heat Stress on the Uterine Function and Hormone Synthesis in Laying Hens

Chickens are sensitive to heat stress because their capacity to dissipate body heat is low. Hence, in chickens, excessive ambient temperature negatively influences their reproductive performance and health. Heat stress induces inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby rendering many reproductive organs dysfunctional. In this study, we evaluated the effects of the supplementation of dietary quercetin and vitamin E on the uterine function, eggshell quality via estrogen concentration, calcium metabolism, and antioxidant status of the uterus of laying hens under heat stress. The ambient temperature transformation was set at 34 ± 2 °C for 8 h/d (9:00 am-5:00 pm), which was followed by 22 °C to 28 °C for 16 h/d. Throughout the experiment, the relative humidity in the chicken's pen was at 50 to 65%. A total of 400 Tianfu breeder hens (120-days-old) were randomly divided into four dietary experimental groups, including basal diet (Control); basal diet + 0.4 g/kg quercetin; basal diet + 0.2 g/kg vitamin E; and basal diet + the combination of quercetin (0.4 g/kg) and vitamin E (0.2 g/kg). The results show that the combination of quercetin and vitamin E significantly increased the serum alkaline phosphatase levels and the antioxidant status of the uterus (p < 0.05). In addition, the combination of quercetin and vitamin E significantly increased the concentrations of serum estrogen and progesterone, as well as elevated the expression of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 and follicular cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member-1 (p < 0.05). We also found that the calcium levels of the serum and uterus were significantly increased by the synergistic effects of quercetin and vitamin E (p < 0.05), and they also increased the expression of Ca2+-ATPase and the mRNA expression of calcium-binding-related genes in the uterus (p < 0.05). These results are consistent with the increased eggshell quality of the laying hens under heat stress. Further, the combination of quercetin and vitamin E significantly increased the uterine morphological characteristics, such as the height of the uterine mucosal fold and the length of the uterine mucosa villus of the heat-stressed laying hens. These results collectively improve the uterine function, serum and uterine calcium concentration, eggshell strength, and eggshell thickness (p < 0.05) in heat-stressed laying hens. Taken together, we demonstrated in the present study that supplementing the combination of dietary quercetin and vitamin E alleviated the effects of heat stress and improved calcium metabolism, hormone synthesis, and uterine function in the heat-stressed laying hens. Thus, the supplementation of the combination of quercetin and vitamin E alleviates oxidative stress in the eggshell gland of heat-stressed laying hens, thereby promoting calcium concentration in the serum and eggshell gland, etc., in laying hens. Hence, the combination of quercetin and vitamin E promotes the reproductive performance of the laying hens under heat stress and can also be used as a potent anti-stressor in laying hens.

Effects of puerarin as a feed additive on the laying performance, egg quality, endocrine hormones, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal morphology of aged laying hens

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of puerarin (Pue), a phytoestrogen, on the production performance, egg quality, endocrine hormones, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal morphology in aged laying hens. A total of 180 Hy-Line Brown hens aged 480 d were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 45 per group) and fed 0, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of Pue (Con, L-Pue, M-Pue, and H-Pue, respectively) during a 42-d experiment. Compared with the Con treatment, supplementation with H-Pue improved laying performance and egg quality by significantly increasing egg production, average egg weight, albumen height, yolk weight, and Haugh unit (P < 0.05) while decreasing the feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). A diet supplemented with H-Pue significantly decreasing serum total triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.05), and significantly increasing serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and progesterone (P < 0.05). Antioxidant activity was improved by significantly increasing the activity of total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase and catalase but decreasing malondialdehyde levels in serum, jejunum, and ileum (P < 0.05), and superoxide dismutase activity exhibited a significantly increase in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). Villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (P < 0.05) were significantly increased in the jejunum and ileum. In the jejunal and ileal mucosa, the three treatment groups increased the mRNA expression levels of Claudin-1 and Claudin-2 compared with Con (P < 0.05), and no significant effect was observed on the expression of Occludin and ZO-1. The results showed that dietary supplementation with Pue could improve the laying performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, hormonal profile, and intestinal morphology of aged laying hens.

Protein profile analysis of Jilin white goose testicles at different stages of the laying cycle by DIA strategy

BACKGROUND

Jilin white goose is an excellent local breed in China, with a high annual egg production and laying eggs mainly from February to July each year. The testis, as the only organ that can produce sperm, can affect the sexual maturity and fecundity of male animals. Its growth and development are affected and regulated by a variety of factors. Proteomics is generally applied to identify and quantify proteins in cells and tissues in order to understand the physiological or pathological changes that occur in tissues or cells under specific conditions. Currently, the female poultry reproductive system has been extensively studied, while few related studies focusing on the regulatory mechanism of the reproductive system of male poultry have been conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 1753 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were generated in which there were 594, 391 and 768 different proteins showing differential expression in three stages, Initial of Laying Cycle (ILC), Peak of Laying Cycle (PLC) and End of Laying Cycle (ELC). Furthermore, bioinformatics was used to analyze the DEPs. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment, Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were adopted. All DEPs were found to be implicated in multiple biological processes and pathways associated with testicular development, such as renin secretion, Lysosomes, SNARE interactions in vesicle trafficking, the p53 signaling pathway and pathways related to metabolism. Additionally, the reliability of transcriptome results was verified by real-time quantitative PCR by selecting the transcript abundance of 6 selected DEPs at the three stages of the laying cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

The funding in this study will provide critical insight into the complex molecular mechanisms and breeding practices underlying the developmental characteristics of testicles in Jilin white goose.

N-Acetylcysteine Alleviates D-Galactose-Induced Injury of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Female Rabbits by Regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway

The ovary plays a crucial role in the reproductive system of female animals. Ovarian problems such as ovarian insufficiency, premature aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and ovarian cysts may lead to ovulation disorders, abnormal hormone secretion, or luteal dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of infertility and abortion. Only when the ovarian function and other organs in the reproductive system remain healthy and work normally can female animals be ensured to carry out reproductive activities regularly, improve the pregnancy rate and litter size, promote the healthy development of the fetus, and then improve their economic value. The follicle, as the functional unit of the ovary, is composed of theca cells, granulosa cells (GCs), and oocytes. GCs are the largest cell population and main functional unit in follicles and provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and development of follicles. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a prevalent and cell-permeable antioxidant molecule that effectively prevents apoptosis and promotes cellular survival. Over the past few years, its function in boosting reproductive performance in animals at the cellular level has been widely acknowledged. However, its specific role and mechanism in influencing GCs is yet to be fully understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of NAC on ovarian damage in female rabbits. For this purpose, D-galactose (D-gal) was first used to establish a model of damaged GCs, with exposure to 1.5 mg/mL of D-gal leading to substantial damage. Subsequently, varying concentrations of NAC were introduced to determine the precise mechanism through which it influences cell damage. Based on the results of the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting, it was found that 0.5 mg/mL of NAC could significantly suppress cell apoptosis and promote proliferation. In particular, it decreased the expression levels of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, while concurrently upregulating the expression of the BCL-2 gene. Moreover, NAC was found to alleviate intracellular oxidative stress, suppress the discharge of mitochondrial Cytochrome c, and boost the enzymatic activities of CAT (Catalase), GSH (Glutathione), and SOD (Superoxide dismutase). RNA sequencing analysis subsequently underscored the critical role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in governing proliferation and apoptosis within GCs. These findings demonstrated that NAC could significantly influence gene expression within this pathway, thereby clarifying the exact relationship between the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade and the underlying cellular processes controlling proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, NAC can reduce the expression of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, inhibit the apoptosis of GCs, improve cell viability, and resist D-gal-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activity of CAT, GSH, and SOD. The molecular mechanism of NAC in alleviating D-gal-induced ovarian GC injury in female rabbits by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway provides experimental evidence for the effect of NAC on animal reproductive function at the cellular level.

Physicochemical properties, mechanism of action of lycopene and its application in poultry and ruminant production

Lycopene is a kind of natural carotenoid that could achieve antioxidant, anti-cancer, lipid-lowering and immune-improving effects by up-regulating or down-regulating genes related to antioxidant, anti-cancer, lipid-lowering and immunity. Furthermore, lycopene is natural, pollution-free, and has no toxic side effects. The application of lycopene in animal production has shown that it could improve livestock production performance, slaughter performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and meat quality. Therefore, lycopene as a new type of feed additive, has broader application prospects in many antibiotic-forbidden environments. This article serves as a reference for the use of lycopene as a health feed additive in animal production by going over its physical and chemical characteristics, antioxidant, lipid-lowering, anti-cancer, and application in animal production.

Nobiletin Ameliorates Aging of Chicken Ovarian Prehierarchical Follicles by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Promoting Autophagy

With the increase in the age of laying chickens, the aging of follicles is accelerated, and the reproductive ability is decreased. Increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial malfunction are indispensable causes of ovarian aging. In this study, the physiological condition of prehierarchical small white follicles (SWFs) was compared between D280 high-producing chickens and D580 aging chickens, and the effect of a plant-derived flavonoid nobiletin (Nob), a natural antioxidant, on senescence of SWFs granulosa cells (SWF-GCs) was investigated. The results showed that Nob treatment activated cell autophagy by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) pathways in D-galactose (D-gal)-generated senescent SWF-GCs, restoring the expression of proliferation-related mRNAs and proteins. In addition, the expression of inflammation-related protein NF-κB was significantly enhanced in aging GCs that were induced by D-gal. Nob supplementation significantly increased the antioxidant capacity and decreased the expression of several genes associated with cell apoptosis. Furthermore, Nob promoted activation of PINK1 and Parkin pathways for mitophagy and alleviated mitochondrial edema. Either the AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin (Compound C) or SIRT1 inhibitor selisistat (EX-527) attenuated the effect of Nob on mitophagy. The protective effect of Nob on natural aging, GC proliferation, and elimination of the beneficial impact on energy regulation of naturally aging ovaries was diminished by inhibition of Nob-mediated autophagy. These data suggest that Nob treatment increases the expression of mitophagy-related proteins (PINK1 and Parkin) via the AMPK/SIRT1 pathways to prevent ovarian aging in the laying chickens.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Caesalpinia sappan Linn. Extract for Promoting Flock Health and Performance in Late-Phase Laying Hens

The present study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of Caesalpinia sappan Linn Extract (CSE) on the health and productive performance of late-phase laying hens on farms. Proximate composition and antioxidant markers of CSE powder revealed favorable characteristics with high total dry matter; phenolic content, and antioxidant potency. Three hundred and sixty (64-week-old) Hy-line Brown hens were divided into five groups with 0 (control diet), 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg CSE, respectively. The laying performance and egg quality of the CSE supplementation groups demonstrated significant improvements in egg weight and albumin weight (p < 0.05), and a tendency for enhanced egg mass and feed conversion ratio. Additionally, the intestinal morphostructural indices in the 2000 mg CSE/kg diet group showed the greatest statistical significance (p < 0.05), with a detectable trend suggesting an increase in the villus height to crypt depth ratio. In addition, significant downregulation of proinflammatory genes occurred in their liver tissues, coupled with a greater expression of genes linked to antioxidants and anti-inflammatory processes. Furthermore, the blood biochemical parameters and the organ weights may suggest a favorable safety profile of CSE supplementation. These findings highlight the potential of CSE as a dietary supplement to enhance the productive performance and flock health of late-phase laying hens. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and optimal dosage of CSE supplementation for laying hens in farming practices.

Differential age-related transcriptomic analysis of ovarian granulosa cells in Kazakh horses

Introduction

The Kazakh horse, renowned for its excellence as a breed, exhibits distinctive reproductive traits characterized by early maturity and seasonal estrus. While normal reproductive function is crucial for ensuring the breeding and expansion of the Kazakh horse population, a noteworthy decline in reproductive capabilities is observed after reaching 14 years of age.

Methods

In this study, ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were meticulously collected from Kazakh horses aged 1, 2, 7, and above 15 years old (excluding 15 years old) for whole transcriptome sequencing.

Results

The analysis identified and selected differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs for each age group, followed by a thorough examination through GO enrichment analysis. The study uncovered significant variations in the expression profiles of mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs within GCs at different stages of maturity. Notably, eca-miR-486-3p and miR-486-y exhibited the highest degree of connectivity. Subsequent GO, KEGG, PPI, and ceRNA network analyses elucidated that the differentially expressed target genes actively participate in signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation, apoptosis, and hormonal regulation. These pathways include but are not limited to the MAPK signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, Calcium signaling pathway, Aldosterone synthesis and secretion, Cellular senescence, and NF-kappa B signaling pathway-essentially encompassing signal transduction pathways crucial to reproductive processes.

Discussion

This research significantly contributes to unraveling the molecular mechanisms governing follicular development in Kazakh horses. It establishes and preliminarily validates a differential regulatory network involving lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA, intricately associated with processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis and integral to the developmental intricacies of stromal follicles. The findings of this study provide a solid theoretical foundation for delving deeper into the realm of reproductive aging in Kazakh mares, presenting itself as a pivotal regulatory pathway in the context of horse ovarian development.

Pregnane X receptor (PXR) deficiency protects against spinal cord injury by activating NRF2/HO-1 pathway

INTRODUCTION

As a devastating neurological disease, spinal cord injury (SCI) results in severe tissue loss and neurological dysfunction. Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a ligand-activated nuclear receptor with a major regulatory role in xenobiotic and endobiotic metabolism and recently has been implicated in the central nervous system. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of PXR in SCI.

METHODS

The clip-compressive SCI model was performed in male wild-type C57BL/6 (PXR+/+ ) and PXR-knockout (PXR-/- ) mice. The N2a H2 O2 -induced injury model mimicked the pathological process of SCI in vitro. Pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile (PCN), a mouse-specific PXR agonist, was used to activate PXR in vivo and in vitro. The siRNA was applied to knock down the PXR expression in vitro. Transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed to discover the relevant mechanism, and the NRF2 inhibitor ML385 was used to validate the involvement of PXR in influencing the NRF2/HO-1 pathway in the SCI process.

RESULTS

The expression of PXR decreased after SCI and reached a minimum on the third day. In vivo, PXR knockout significantly improved the motor function of mice after SCI, meanwhile, inhibited apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress induced by SCI. On the contrary, activation of PXR by PCN negatively influenced the recovery of SCI. Mechanistically, transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that PXR activation downregulated the mRNA level of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) after SCI. We further verified that PXR deficiency activated the NRF2/HO-1 pathway and PXR activation inhibited this pathway in vitro.

CONCLUSION

PXR is involved in the recovery of motor function after SCI by regulating NRF2/HO-1 pathway.

Anti-Aging Activity and Modes of Action of Compounds from Natural Food Sources

Aging is a natural and inescapable phenomenon characterized by a progressive deterioration of physiological functions, leading to increased vulnerability to chronic diseases and death. With economic and medical development, the elderly population is gradually increasing, which poses a great burden to society, the economy and the medical field. Thus, healthy aging has now become a common aspiration among people over the world. Accumulating evidence indicates that substances that can mediate the deteriorated physiological processes are highly likely to have the potential to prolong lifespan and improve aging-associated diseases. Foods from natural sources are full of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and vitamins. These bioactive compounds and their derivatives have been shown to be able to delay aging and/or improve aging-associated diseases, thereby prolonging lifespan, via regulation of various physiological processes. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the anti-aging activities of the compounds, polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and vitamins from natural food sources, and their modes of action in delaying aging and improving aging-associated diseases. This will certainly provide a reference for further research on the anti-aging effects of bioactive compounds from natural food sources.

Peppermint extract improves egg production and quality, increases antioxidant capacity, and alters cecal microbiota in late-phase laying hens

Introduction

Peppermint contains substantial bioactive ingredients belonging to the phytoestrogens, and its effects on the production of late-laying hens deserve more attention. This study evaluated the effects of dietary peppermint extract (PE) supplementation on egg production and quality, yolk fatty acid composition, antioxidant capacity, and cecal microbiota in late-phase laying hens.

Method

PE powder was identified by UPLC-MS/MS analysis. Two hundred and sixteen laying hens (60 weeks old) were randomly assigned to four treatments, each for 28 days: (i) basal diet (control group, CON); (ii) basal diet + 0.1% PE; (iii) basal diet + 0.2% PE; and (iv) basal diet + 0.4% PE. Egg, serum, and cecal samples were collected for analysis.

Results

Dietary PE supplementation increased the laying rate, serum triglyceride, immunoglobulin G, and total antioxidant capacity, while 0.2 and 0.4% PE supplementation increased eggshell thickness, serum total protein level, and superoxide dismutase activity of laying hens compared with the CON group (P < 0.05). PE addition in diets increased the C14:0, C18:3n3, C18:3n6, C23:0, C24:0, and C24:1n9 contents in the yolk. In addition, the egg yolk saturated fatty acid content was higher (P < 0.05) in the 0.2 and 0.4% PE groups compared with the CON and 0.1% PE groups. The microbiota analysis revealed that the cecal phylum Proteobacteria was decreased (P < 0.05) in the PE-supplemented groups. A total of 0.4% PE supplementation increased the cecal richness of gram-positive bacteria and decreased the richness of gram-negative and potentially pathogenic bacteria compared with the 0.1% PE group (P < 0.05). Microbial function prediction analysis showed that the cecal microbiota of the PE group was mainly enriched by fatty acid degradation, fatty acid metabolism, amino sugar metabolism, nucleotide sugar metabolism, and other pathways. Regression analysis suggested that 0.28-0.36% PE supplementation was the optimal level for improving egg production and quality, antioxidant capacity, and yolk fatty acid in late-phase laying hens.

Discussion

Dietary PE supplementation improved egg production and quality (including yolk fatty acid composition) by increasing serum IgG and antioxidant capacity and modulating the intestinal microbiota in late-phase laying hens.

Role of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Ovarian Aging: Potential Mechanism and Protective Strategies

The ovary holds a significant role as a reproductive endocrine organ in women, and its aging process bears implications such as menopause, decreased fertility, and long-term health risks including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders, and cognitive decline. The phenomenon of oxidative stress is tightly linked to the aging metabolic processes. More and more studies have demonstrated that oxidative stress impacts both physiologic and pathologic ovarian aging, and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the antioxidant response. Furthermore, various therapeutic approaches have been identified to ameliorate ovarian aging by modulating the Nrf2 pathway. This review summarizes the important role of the Nrf2/ Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) signaling pathway in regulating oxidative stress and influencing ovarian aging. Additionally, it highlights the therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway.

Effect of dietary lutein on the egg production, fertility, and oxidative injury indexes of aged hens

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary lutein on egg production, follicles, reproductive hormones, fertility, hatchability, and oxidative injury indexes of hens.

METHODS

Treatments consisted of a control diet (CON) and three lutein-supplementing diets at 25 (L1), 50 (L2), or 75 (L3) mg/kg of diet. Egg production was measured using 576 Arbor Acres breeder hens at 61 to 65 wk and follicles grades, reproductive hormones, fertility, hatchability, tissue lutein contents, and oxidative injury indexes were determined at 65 wk.

RESULTS

The results showed that at 65 wk, lutein- supplementing diets increased (p<0.05) egg production, follicular grades, fertility, hatchability, estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone, progesterone (PROG), lutein content in the serum and yolk, compared to CON. L2 and L3 showed more pronounced (p<0.05) effects on egg production, PROG, and yolk lutein content than L1. With the increase of lutein doses from 25 to 75 mg/kg, there were linear increases (p<0.05) in egg production, lutein content, and PROG, and a quadratic trend (p<0.05) in E2. For the oxidative injury products, lutein-supplementing diets decreased (p<0.05) malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PCO) in the serum, MDA and 8-hydroxy 2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the yolk. There were linear decreases (p<0.05) in 8-OHdG in the serum, MDA, PCO, and 8-OHdG in the yolk, a quadratic trend (p<0.05) on serum 8-OHdG.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that lutein supplementation can improve egg production and fertility by beneficially regulating reproductive hormones and oxidative status in aged hens.

Mitochondrial homeostasis: a potential target for delaying renal aging

Mitochondria, which are the energy factories of the cell, participate in many life activities, and the kidney is a high metabolic organ that contains abundant mitochondria. Renal aging is a degenerative process associated with the accumulation of harmful processes. Increasing attention has been given to the role of abnormal mitochondrial homeostasis in renal aging. However, the role of mitochondrial homeostasis in renal aging has not been reviewed in detail. Here, we summarize the current biochemical markers associated with aging and review the changes in renal structure and function during aging. Moreover, we also review in detail the role of mitochondrial homeostasis abnormalities, including mitochondrial function, mitophagy and mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation, in renal aging. Finally, we describe some of the current antiaging compounds that target mitochondria and note that maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis is a potential strategy against renal aging.

SIRT2 Deficiency Aggravates Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease through Modulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by excessive lipid accumulation in hepatocytes, is an increasing global healthcare burden. Sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) functions as a preventive molecule for NAFLD with incompletely clarified regulatory mechanisms. Metabolic changes and gut microbiota imbalance are critical to the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, their association with SIRT2 in NAFLD progression is still unknown. Here, we report that SIRT2 knockout (KO) mice are susceptible to HFCS (high-fat/high-cholesterol/high-sucrose)-induced obesity and hepatic steatosis accompanied with an aggravated metabolic profile, which indicates SIRT2 deficiency promotes NAFLD-NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) progression. Under palmitic acid (PA), cholesterol (CHO), and high glucose (Glu) conditions, SIRT2 deficiency promotes lipid deposition and inflammation in cultured cells. Mechanically, SIRT2 deficiency induces serum metabolites alteration including upregulation of L-proline and downregulation of phosphatidylcholines (PC), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and epinephrine. Furthermore, SIRT2 deficiency promotes gut microbiota dysbiosis. The microbiota composition clustered distinctly in SIRT2 KO mice with decreased Bacteroides and Eubacterium, and increased Acetatifactor. In clinical patients, SIRT2 is downregulated in the NALFD patients compared with healthy controls, and is associated with exacerbated progression of normal liver status to NAFLD to NASH in clinical patients. In conclusion, SIRT2 deficiency accelerates HFCS-induced NAFLD-NASH progression by inducing alteration of gut microbiota and changes of metabolites.

Red Ginseng Improves D-galactose-Induced Premature Ovarian Failure in Mice Based on Network Pharmacology

In this study, we evaluated the ameliorative effect and molecular mechanism of red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) extract (RGE) on D-galactose (D-gal)-induced premature ovarian failure (POF) using network pharmacology analysis. Ginsenosides are important active ingredients in ginseng, which also contains some sugar and amino acid derivatives. We aimed to determine the key proteins through which RGE regulates POF. In this work, we retrieved and screened for active ingredients in ginseng and the corresponding POF disease targets in multiple databases. A PPI network of genes was constructed in the STRING database and core targets were screened using topological analysis. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were conducted in R software. Finally, molecular docking was conducted to validate the results. Female ICR mice were used to establish a POF mouse model for in vivo experiments. Serum levels of relevant estrogens were determined using ELISA and expression levels of relevant proteins in ovarian tissues were detected using immunofluorescence and western blot analysis. Network pharmacology analysis predicted that PI3K, Akt, Bax, Bcl-2, p16, and other proteins were highly correlated with POF and RGE. The results clearly showed that RGE could increase estradiol (E2) and lower follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in D-gal-fed mice. RGE restored the expression levels of related proteins by reducing Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress, PI3K/Akt-mediated apoptosis, and senescence signaling pathways. Overall, RGE has the potential to prevent and treat POF and is likely to be a promising natural protector of the ovaries.

Melatonin alleviates ovarian function damage and oxidative stress induced by dexamethasone in the laying hens through FOXO1 signaling pathway

Oxidative stress can trigger follicular atresia, and decrease follicles quantity in each development stage, thereby alleviating reproductive activity. The induction of oxidative stress in chickens through intraperitoneal injection of dexamethasone is a reliable and stable method. Melatonin has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress in this model, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether melatonin can recover aberrant antioxidant status induced by dexamethasone and the specific mechanism behind melatonin-dependent protection. A total of 150 healthy 40-wk-old Dawu Jinfeng laying hens with similar body weights and laying rates were randomly divided into three groups, with five replicates per group and 10 hens per replicate. The hens in the control group (NS) received intraperitoneal injections of normal saline for 30 d, the dexamethasone group (Dex+NS) received 20 mg/kg dose of dexamethasone for the first 15 d, followed by the 15 d of normal saline treatment. While in the melatonin group (Dex+Mel), dexamethasone (20 mg/kg dose) was injected intraperitoneally in the first 15 d, and melatonin (20 mg/kg/d) was injected in the last 15 d. The results showed that dexamethasone treatment significantly enhanced oxidative stress (P < 0.05), while melatonin not only inhibited the oxidative stress but also notably enhanced the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and antioxidant genes CAT, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), and recombinant peroxiredoxin 3 (PRDX3) expression (P < 0.05). Melatonin treatment also markedly reduced 8-hydroxy deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels (P < 0.05) and apoptotic genes Caspase-3, Bim, and Bax in the follicle. In the Dex+Mel group, the Bcl-2 and SOD1 protein levels were also increased (P < 0.05). Melatonin inhibited the forkhead Box Protein O1 (FOXO1) gene and its protein expression (P < 0.05). In general, this investigation revealed that melatonin might decrease oxidative stress and ROS by enhancing antioxidant enzymes and genes, activating the antiapoptotic genes, and inhibiting the FOXO1 pathway in laying hens.

Insights into SGLT2 inhibitor treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy: focus on the mechanisms

Among the complications of diabetes, cardiovascular events and cardiac insufficiency are considered two of the most important causes of death. Experimental and clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of SGLT2i for improving cardiac dysfunction. SGLT2i treatment benefits metabolism, microcirculation, mitochondrial function, fibrosis, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, programmed cell death, autophagy, and the intestinal flora, which are involved in diabetic cardiomyopathy. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the mechanisms of SGLT2i for the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Comparison of the effect of quercetin and daidzein on production performance, anti-oxidation, hormones, and cecal microflora in laying hens during the late laying period

This study aims to compare the effect of quercetin and daidzein on production performance, anti-oxidation, hormones, and cecal microflora in laying hens during the late laying period. A total of 360 53-week-old healthy Hyline brown laying hens were randomly divided into 3 groups (control, 0.05% quercetin, and 0.003% daidzein). Diets were fed for 10 wk, afterwards 1 bird per replicate (6 replicates) were euthanized for sampling blood, liver and cecal digesta. Compared with the control, quercetin significantly increased laying rate and decreased feed-to-egg weight ratio from wk 1 to 4, wk 5 to 10, and wk 1 to 10 (P < 0.05). Quercetin significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and decreased catalase (CAT) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in serum and liver (P < 0.05) and increased content of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in liver (P < 0.05). Quercetin increased content of estradiol (E₂), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), triiodothyronine (T₃) and thyroxine (T₄) in serum (P < 0.05). Quercetin significantly decreased the relative abundance of Bacteroidaceae and Bacteroides (P < 0.01) and significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Lactobacillus (P < 0.05) at family and genus levels in cecum. Daidzein did not significantly influence production performance from wk 1 to 10. Daidzein significantly increased SOD activity and decreased CAT activity and MDA content in serum and liver (P < 0.05), and increased T-AOC content in liver (P < 0.05). Daidzein increased content of FSH, IGF-1, T₃ in serum (P < 0.05). Daidzein increased the relative abundance of Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group at genus level in cecum (P < 0.05). Quercetin increased economic efficiency by 137.59% and 8.77%, respectively, compared with daidzein and control. In conclusion, quercetin improved production performance through enhancing antioxidant state, hormone levels, and regulating cecal microflora in laying hens during the late laying period. Quercetin was more effective than daidzein in improving economic efficiency.

Research Progress on Lycopene in Swine and Poultry Nutrition: An Update

Oxidative stress and in-feed antibiotics restrictions have accelerated the development of natural, green, safe feed additives for swine and poultry diets. Lycopene has the greatest antioxidant potential among the carotenoids, due to its specific chemical structure. In the past decade, increasing attention has been paid to lycopene as a functional additive for swine and poultry feed. In this review, we systematically summarized the latest research progress on lycopene in swine and poultry nutrition during the past ten years (2013-2022). We primarily focused on the effects of lycopene on productivity, meat and egg quality, antioxidant function, immune function, lipid metabolism, and intestinal physiological functions. The output of this review highlights the crucial foundation of lycopene as a functional feed supplement for animal nutrition.

Se-Enriched Cardamine violifolia Improves Laying Performance and Regulates Ovarian Antioxidative Function in Aging Laying Hens

As a selenium-enriched plant, Cardamine violifolia (SEC) has an excellent antioxidant function. The edibility of SEC is expected to develop new sources of organic Se supplementation for human and animal nutrition. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of SEC on laying performance and ovarian antioxidant capacity in aging laying hens. A total of 450 laying hens were assigned to five treatments. Dietary treatments included the following: a basal diet (diet without Se supplementation, CON) and basal diets supplemented with 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEY), 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEC, or 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEC and 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEY (SEC + SEY). Results showed that supplementation with SEC tended to increase the laying rate, increased the Haugh unit of eggs, and reduced the FCR. SEC promoted ovarian cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and ameliorated the maintenance of follicles. SEC, SEY, or SEC + SEY increased ovarian T-AOC and decreased MDA levels. SEC increased the mRNA abundance of ovarian selenoproteins. SEC and SEC + SEY increased the mRNA abundance of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, and decreased the mRNA abundance of Keap1. These results indicate that SEC could potentially to improve laying performance and egg quality via the enhancement of ovarian antioxidant capacity. SEC exerts an antioxidant function through the modulation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway.

Effects of dietary theabrownins on production performance, egg quality and ovarian function of laying hens with different ages

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of theabrownins (TB) on production performance, egg quality, and ovarian function of laying hens at different ages. A total of 240 Lohmann laying hens were assigned in a 2 × 2 factorial design, which encompassed 2 layers ages (47-wk-old and 67-wk-old) and 2 dietary levels of TB (0 and 100 mg/kg) for 12 wk. Results showed that older layers had lower laying rate, egg mass, and higher feed-to-egg ratio (F/E), egg weight and unqualified egg rate than the younger layers (P_(AGE) < 0.01) during all the experimental period. The effect of TB was found to increase egg laying rate and feed efficiency during 5 to 8 wk, 9 to 12 wk and the overall phases and decreased unqualified egg rate during 1 to 4 wk and the overall phases (P_(TB) ≤ 0.05). The eggshell quality (strength, thickness), albumen quality (albumen height and Haugh unit) of eggs from older layers were decreased during overall phases (P_(AGE) ≤ 0.05). TB increased eggshell strength during all phases and enhanced eggshell thickness at the end of wk 4 and 8 and increased albumen height and Haugh unit at the end of wk 8 and 12 of older layers (P_{(Interaction)} ≤ 0.05). In addition, TB also increased egg quality of older layers after 14 d storage. A decrease in the serum concentration of progesterone, melatonin, follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol was observed in the older compared to the younger ones (P_(AGE) < 0.05), while the increase in serum concentration of progesterone, melatonin, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were more emphasized when older hens received TB supplemented diet (P_{(Interaction)} < 0.05). The older layer demonstrated lower the concentration of glutathione (GSH) (P_(AGE) < 0.05). And the activity of glutathione-s-transferase (GST) was significantly decreased in layers under 67-wk-old (P_(AGE) <0.05). The increase in concentration of GSH and the decrease in concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) were more pronounced when TB were supplemented in 67-wk-old layers (P_{(Interaction)} ≤ 0.05). Layers at 67-wk-old had lower mRNA expression of Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) (P_(AGE) < 0.01) in ovary. Dietary TB supplementation upregulated mRNA gene expression of HO-1, Nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), Quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) (P_(TB) < 0.01). Dietary TB upregulated mRNA expression of ovarian reproductive hormone receptor (estrogen receptor 1 [ESR1] and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein 1 [StAR1]]; P_(TB) < 0.01). The results suggest feeding TB (100 mg/kg) could improve the egg production rate, egg quality, and antioxidant capacity of the ovary. Moreover, the effect of TB was more pronounced in older layers (64-wk-old vs. 47-wk-old).

Low Ca diet leads to increased Ca retention by changing the gut flora and ileal pH value in laying hens

Osteoporosis is a common degenerative metabolic bone disease in caged laying hens. Intensive egg production mobilizing large amounts of Ca from bone for eggshell formation, consequently leading to Ca deficiency, has been recognized as a critical factor causing osteoporosis in commercial laying hens. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Ca deficiency on the function of the gut microbiota-bone axis and related egg production traits and bone health in laying hens. Twenty-four 48-week-old laying hens were fed a control diet (Control, 3.72%) or a low Ca diet (LC, 2.04%) for 60 d (n = 12). Compared to the Control hens, the LC hens had higher levels of alkaline phosphatase and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (P < 0.05) with lower bone strength, eggshell thickness, and eggshell strength (P < 0.05). In addition, the LC hens had higher plasma estradiol concentrations, while having lower concentrations of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6. The LC hens also had a lower pH value in the ileum with an increased Ca retention. The principal co-ordinates analysis showed significantly separate cecal microbiota populations between the Control and LC hens. The Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, Subdoligranulum, Peptococcus, and Eubacterium_hallii_group (P < 0.05) were higher, while the CHKC1001 and Sutterella (P < 0.05) were lower at the genus level in the LC hens. In addition, Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, Subdoligranulum and Eubacterium_hallii_group had a negative correlation, while Sutterella was positively correlated with ileal pH values. The transcriptome analysis revealed that the low Ca diet caused 20 and 31 genes to be significantly up- and down-regulated, respectively. The gene expressions of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, solute carrier family 26 member 3 of the anion exchangers, and mitogen-activated protein kinase 12 of pro-inflammatory factors were lower in the LC birds, which was correlated with the lower ileal pH values. These results suggest that the hens with low Ca diet-induced osteoporosis have an increased intestinal Ca retention with a decreased ileal pH value, correlated with the changes in Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, Subdoligranulum, and Eubacterium_hallii_group of beneficial genera. The results provide insights for further understanding and preventing osteoporosis in laying hens.

Mechanisms of action of non-enzymatic antioxidants to control oxidative stress during in vitro follicle growth, oocyte maturation, and embryo development

In vitro follicle growth and oocyte maturation still has a series of limitations, since not all oocytes matured in vitro have the potential to develop in viable embryos. One of the factors associated with low oocyte quality is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during in vitro culture. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the role of non-enzymatic antioxidants in the control of oxidative stress during in vitro follicular growth, oocyte maturation and embryonic development. A wide variety of non-enzymatic antioxidants (melatonin, resveratrol, L-ascorbic acid, L-carnitine, N-acetyl-cysteine, cysteamine, quercetin, nobiletin, lycopene, acteoside, mogroside V, phycocyanin and laminarin) have been used to supplement culture media. Some of them, like N-acetyl-cysteine, cysteamine, nobiletin and quercetin act by increasing the levels of glutathione (GSH), while melatonin and resveratrol increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes and minimize oocyte oxidative stress. L-ascorbic acid reduces free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Lycopene positively regulates the expression of many antioxidant genes. Additionally, L-carnitine protects DNA against ROS-induced damage, while acteoside and laminarin reduces the expression of proapoptotic genes. Mogrosides increases mitochondrial function and reduces intracellular ROS levels, phycocyanin reduces lipid peroxidation, and lycopene neutralizes the adverse effects of ROS. Thus, it is very important to know their mechanisms of actions, because the combination of two or more antioxidants with different activities has great potential to improve in vitro culture systems.

Dietary phytogenic inclusion level affects production performance and expression of ovarian cytoprotective genes in laying hens

A 12-wk study was conducted to investigate the effects of a phytogenic premix (PP) inclusion level on production performance, and the expression of genes relevant for detoxification (aryl hydrocarbon receptor; AhR) and antioxidant capacity (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; Nrf2) in the ovaries of laying hens. The PP consisted of bioactive substances derived from ginger, lemon balm, oregano, and thyme substances (Anco FIT-Poultry). Depending on PP inclusion level (i.e., 0, 500, 750, 1,000, and 1,500 mg/kg diet) in the basal diet, 385 laying hens Hy-Line Brown, 20-wk-old were assigned into 5 treatments: CON, P500, P750, P1000, and P1500, with 7 replicates of 11 hens with ad libitum access to feed and water. Performance parameters were closely monitored on a weekly basis and analyzed in the following 3 experimental periods: 1 to 4 wk, 5 to 8 wk, and 9 to 12 wk of treatment administration (i.e., 21-24, 25-28, and 29-32 wk of layers age, respectively). At the end of the 8th and 12th wk of the experiment (i.e., 28 and 32 wk of layers age), a layer from each replicate was selected, euthanized, the ovaries sampled and stored deep frozen until gene expression analysis. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and means compared using Tukey's honest significant difference test. Polynomial contrasts tested the linear and quadratic effect of PP inclusion levels. Results revealed that PP inclusion, improved (P < 0.05) laying rate and egg mass, compared to CON. Increasing PP inclusion level enhanced laying rate and egg mass, linearly and quadratically and peaked at P1000 (P < 0.05). In the ovaries, the AhR pathway genes assessed were down-regulated (P < 0.05) mainly at P1000 and P750 treatments. In addition, PP related cytoprotective potential was demonstrated via beneficial changes seen for the majority of the Nrf2-pathway genes assessed with the P1000 displaying most significant differences from CON. Conclusively, new data highlighted beneficial cytoprotective effects of PP inclusion on layer ovaries and documented further layer performance, with the inclusion level of 1000 mg PP/kg diet being the most prominent.

Mechanism of Guilu Erxian ointment based on targeted metabolomics in intervening in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer outcome in older patients with poor ovarian response of kidney-qi deficiency type

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of Guilu Erxian ointment on the outcome of IVF-ET in older patients with poor ovarian response infertility of kidney-qi deficiency type, and to verify and analyze the mechanism of action of traditional Chinese medicine on improving older patients with poor ovarian response infertility of kidney-qi deficiency type from the perspective of metabolomics using targeted metabolomics technology, identify the related metabolic pathways, and provide metabolic biomarker basis and clinical treatment ideas for improving older patients with poor ovarian response infertility.

METHODS

This study was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, and a total of 119 infertile patients who underwent IVF-ET at Shandong Center for Reproduction and Genetics of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine were selected. Eighty older patients with infertility undergoing IVF were randomly divided into older treatment group and older placebo group, and another 39 young healthy women who underwent IVF-ET or ICSI due to male factors were selected as the normal control group. Flexible GnRH antagonist protocol was used for ovulation induction in all three groups, and Guilu Erxian ointment and placebo groups started taking Guilu Erxian ointment and placebo from the third day of menstruation until IVF surgery. And ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UHPLC-QTRAP MS) was used to detect metabolites in the three groups of samples.

RESULTS

Compared with the placebo group, the number of oocytes retrieved, 2PN fertilization, high-quality embryos, total number of available embryos and estrogen on HCG day were increased in the treatment group, and the differences were statistically significant (P > 0.05), but the clinical pregnancy rate of fresh embryos and frozen embryos were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The results of targeted metabolomics analysis showed that follicular fluid in the treatment group clustered with the normal young group and deviated from the placebo group. A total of 55 significant differential metabolites were found in the follicular fluid of older patients with poor ovarian response of kidney-qi deficiency type and patients in the normal young group, after Guilu Erxian ointment intervention, Metabolites such as L-Aspartic acid, Glycine, L-Serine, Palmitoleic Acid, Palmitelaidic acid, L-Alanine, Gamma-Linolenic acid, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, and N-acetyltryptophan were down-regulated, mainly involving amino acid metabolism and fatty acid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Guilu Erxian ointment can effectively improve the clinical symptoms and IVF outcomes of older patients with poor ovarian response of kidney-qi deficiency type. There were differences in follicular fluid metabolites between older patients with poor ovarian response of kidney-qi deficiency type and normal women. L-Aspartic acid, L-Alanine, Aminoadipic acid, L-Asparagine, L-Arginine, L-Serine, Gamma- Linolenic acid, Pentadecanoic acid and Alpha-Linolenic Acid are closely related to older patients with poor ovarian response due to deficiency of kidney-qi and may be inferred as biomarkers. The mechanism of Guilu Erxian ointment intervention may be mainly through amino acid metabolism and fatty acid metabolism regulation.

Feed Supplemented with Aronia melanocarpa (AM) Relieves the Oxidative Stress Caused by Ovulation in Peak Laying Hens and Increases the Content of Yolk Precursors

The continuous ovulation of laying hens during the peak period is likely to cause oxidative stress, resulting in a reduction in the laying cycle over time. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant effects of Aronia melanocarpa (AM) in the diet and its effect on the yolk precursor content caused by ovulation in laying hens during the peak period. A total of 300 25-week-old Roman brown laying hens were randomly divided into five groups with six replicates in each group, 10 in each replicate. The control group was fed a basal diet, the positive control group was fed a Vitamin C (VC) plus basal diet, and the experimental group was fed 1%, 4%, and 7% doses of AM plus diet according to the principle of energy and nitrogen requirements, which lasted eight weeks. At the end of the study, the egg quality, biochemical, and antioxidant markers, as well as mRNA and protein expressions, were evaluated to determine the potential signaling pathways involved. Results showed that the addition of AM to the feed increased the weight of laying hens at the peak of egg production and improved egg quality. The biochemical markers, as well as the antioxidant parameters in the serum, liver, and ovarian tissues, were ameliorated. The gene and protein expression of recombinant kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) in the liver and ovarian tissues was decreased, while nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression was increased. The feed supplemented with AM also increased the estrogen contents and lipid parameters, as well as the gene and protein expressions related to the yolk precursor. Feed supplemented with AM could improve the egg quality and the oxidative stress caused by the ovulation process of laying hens during the peak egg production period by activating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. These results suggest that the feed supplemented with 1% AM and 4% AM can improve egg production in peak laying hens.

Hydroxy-selenomethionine enhances the productivity and egg quality of 50- to 70-week-old semi-heavy laying hens under heat stress

Oxidative stress significantly compromises the production efficiency of laying hens. It has been reported in literature that selenium (Se) in poultry diets has a positive effect on mitigating these effects. This study has been carried out to evaluate the effects of Se supplementation in feeds, from either an inorganic or a hydroxy-selenomethionine (OH-SeMet) source, on the performance and physiological traits of 50- to 70-wk-old Dekalb Brown laying hens under heat stress, and on their egg quality after different storage durations. The treatments consisted in supplementing 0.3 ppm of Se as sodium selenite (SS; 45%-0.7g/ton) or OH-SeMet (2%-15g/ton) in twelve 16-bird replicates. Supplementation with OH-SeMet resulted in a better performance of the laying hens than with SS: -5% feed conversion ratio and +3.6% of egg mass. A reduction in egg quality was observed with prolonged egg storage, which was mitigated with the use of OH-SeMet in laying hen diets. The use of OH-SeMet increased the antioxidant capacity of the birds, which showed higher glutathione peroxidase levels in the blood, kidneys, liver, and intestinal mucosa, in addition to a higher Se content in the eggs and a greater bone resistance. Thus, supplementing feeds with 0.3 ppm of OH-SeMet to 50- to 70-wk-old semi-heavy laying hens enhances their antioxidant capacity and leads to a higher egg quality and productivity than SS supplementation.

Lycopene Affects Intestinal Barrier Function and the Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets via Antioxidant Signaling Regulation

BACKGROUND

In pig production, early and abrupt weaning frequently causes weaning stress, which manifests as oxidative damage, barrier disruption, and digestion and absorption capacity declines. Lycopene exhibits beneficial antioxidant capacity in both humans and other animal models.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of lycopene supplementation on early weaning stress in piglets and the underlying mechanisms by examining the oxidative stress state, gut intestinal barrier function, and the gut microbiota.

METHODS

Twenty-four 21-day-old weaned piglets [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire); castrated males; 5.48 ± 0.10 kg initial body weight] were randomly assigned to 2 treatments. The piglets were fed a basal diet (control treatment) or a basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg lycopene (lycopene treatment) for 28 days. The serum lipid levels, serum and jejunum enzyme activities, jejunum morphology, mRNA and protein expression, and gut microbiota were determined.

RESULTS

Compared with the control treatment, lycopene supplementation increased the serum catalase activity (P = 0.042; 62.0%); serum total cholesterol concentration (P = 0.020; 14.1%); and jejunum superoxide dismutase activity (P = 0.032; 21.4%), whereas it decreased serum (P = 0.039, 23.0%) and jejunum (P = 0.047; 20.9%) hydrogen peroxide concentrations. Additionally, lycopene increased the mRNA and protein expression of NFE2-like bZIP transcription factor 2 (214.0% and 102.4%, respectively) and CD36 (100.8% and 145.2%, respectively) in the jejunum, whereas it decreased the mRNA and protein expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (55.6% and 39.8%, respectively ). Lycopene also improved jejunal morphology, increasing the villus height (P = 0.018; 27.5%) and villus:crypt ratio (P < 0.001; 57.9%). Furthermore, it increased the abundances of potentially beneficial bacterial groups, including Phascolarctobacterium and Parasutterella, and decreased those of potentially pathogenic bacterial groups, including Treponema_2 and Prevotellaceae_unclassified.

CONCLUSIONS

Lycopene supplementation strengthens the intestinal barrier function and improves the gut microbiota in weaned piglets by regulating intestinal antioxidant signaling.

Dietary supplementation with astaxanthin alleviates ovarian aging in aged laying hens by enhancing antioxidant capacity and increasing reproductive hormones

We investigated the effects of astaxanthin supplementation on the egg quality, antioxidant capacity, and ovarian aging of aged laying hens. Six groups of 68-wk-old Hy-line brown laying hens with six replications each, fifteen chickens in each replicate were fed for 12 wk. The control group was fed a basal diet, the positive control group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg vitamin E, and the experimental groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 15 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, 45 mg/kg, or 60 mg/kg astaxanthin (Ax15, Ax30, Ax45, and Ax60, respectively). The results showed that astaxanthin accumulated in the egg yolks and improved egg yolk color (P < 0.01) and Haugh unit (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the experimental groups a higher number of follicles in the ovary and a lower rate of atresia (P < 0.01). Astaxanthin increased the expression of nuclear factor e2-related factor 2 (NRF2) in the ovary (P < 0.05), enhanced the antioxidant capacity of aged laying hens (P < 0.05), and reduced cellular apoptosis (P < 0.05). In addition, astaxanthin improved serum reproductive hormone levels (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and progesterone) (P < 0.05) with a maximum value observed in Ax60. However, astaxanthin had no effects on estrogen level (P > 0.05). The expression of FSHR and CYP11A1 increased in the follicular granulosa cells (P < 0.05). Therefore, astaxanthin prevented ovarian aging by improving the antioxidant capacity of laying hens and promoting the production of reproductive hormones. The declining reproductive performance of laying hens in the late laying period may be improved with astaxanthin supplementation.

Flammulina velutipes stem regulates oxidative damage and synthesis of yolk precursors in aging laying hens by regulating the liver-blood-ovary axis

Egg production levels in late laying hens are negatively correlated with increasing age. Decreased liver and ovarian function in aging laying hens is accompanied by decreased antioxidant capacity, reproductive hormone levels, and follicular development, resulting in decreased synthesis of yolk precursors. The golden needle mushroom (Flammulina velutipes) has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic properties. We aimed to reveal the therapeutic effects of F. velutipes stem (FVS) on liver-blood-ovary axis and investigate the underlying mechanisms. A total of 360 sixty-seven-wk-old laying hens were randomized into 4 treatment groups: 1) basal maize-soybean meal diet (CON); 2) basal maize + 20 g/kg FVS (2% FVS); 3) basal maize + 40 g/kg FVS (4% FVS); and 4) basal maize + 60 g/kg FVS (6% FVS). FVS groups demonstrated significantly increased egg production and ovarian development compared with the CON group. The addition of FVS increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes (GSH-Px, T-SOD, and T-AOC) in the liver, serum, and ovaries and decreased malondialdehyde levels by regulating the expression of proteins related to the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Additionally, FVS significantly decreased ovarian apoptosis by regulating Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase3 mRNA and protein expression levels. FVS significantly increased the expression levels of estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone and their respective receptors. With increased levels of estradiol transported to the liver through the bloodstream, targeted binding to estrogen receptor (ER)-α and ER-β led to significant increases in ApoVLDL II, ApoB, and VTG II mRNA expression associated with yolk precursor synthesis. FVS decreased the levels of triglyceride and total cholesterol and significantly increased the expression of lipid metabolism, and transport-related mRNAs (FAS, PPAR-a/γ, and MTTP) in the liver. Therefore, the dietary supplementation of FVS can maintain the productive performance of aging laying hens by alleviating the degree of oxidative stress and regulating the transport of functional substances along the liver-blood-ovary axis, thereby improving the synthesis of yolk precursors.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Alleviates Ovarian Aging by Modulating Mitophagy- and Glycophagy-Based Energy Metabolism in Hens

As a predominant hormone in the reproductive axis, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is known as the primary surviving factor for follicular growth. In this study, the alleviating effect of FSH on aging chicken granulosa cells (GCs) was investigated. Results showed that FSH activated mitophagy and relieved mitochondrial edema in D-gal-induced senescent GCs, which was evidenced by an increased number of mitophagosomes as well as increased mitochondria-light chain 3 (LC3) colocalization. Mitophagy activation was accompanied by the activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway. Furthermore, upregulated glycophagy was demonstrated by an increased interaction of starch-binding domain protein 1 (STBD1) with GABA type A receptor-associated protein-like 1 (GABARAPL1) in D-gal-induced senescent GCs. FSH treatment further promoted glycophagy, accompanied by PI3K/AKT activation. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and AKT inhibitor GSK690693 attenuated the effect of FSH on glycophagy and glycolysis. The inhibition of FSH-mediated autophagy attenuated the protective effect of FSH on naturally aging GC proliferation and glycolysis. The simultaneous blockage of PI3K/AKT and AMPK signaling also abolished the positive effect of FSH on naturally senescent ovarian energy regulation. These data reveal that FSH prevents chicken ovarian aging by modulating glycophagy- and mitophagy-based energy metabolism through the PI3K/AKT and AMPK pathways.

Phytogenic Antioxidants Prolong n-3 Fatty Acid-Enriched Eggs’ Shelf Life by Activating the Nrf-2 Pathway through Phosphorylation of MAPK

Helpful for human health, omega-3 (n-3)-enriched eggs are preferred by consumers. However, antioxidants should be added to the hen’s diet to prevent n-3 fatty acid oxidation due to their unsaturated bonds. A study was designed to investigate the effects of different antioxidants on performance, egg quality, fatty acid profile, oxidation parameters, gene expression, and magnum morphology. A total of 450 hens were divided into five dietary groups. Wheat–flaxseed was used for the basic diet (control) and supplemented with vitamin E (VE), chlorogenic acid (CA), polyphenol (PF), and lutein (L). The experiment lasted for 10 weeks. The eggs were collected on the 5th week and were analyzed for quality, oxidative stability, and fatty acid (FA) content, being stored for 0 d, 7 d, 14 d, 21 d, 28 d, 35 d, and 42 d. The results showed that supplemental VE, PF, CA, and L improved the egg weight and hen day egg production compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The VE, PF, and L groups significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) and maintained the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in the egg yolk. The albumen height and Haugh unit were maintained in the egg yolk till 35 days of storage by the VE, PF, and L groups, while the CA group reduced the albumen quality after 21 d storage. The VE, PF, CA, and lutein maintained the content of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), during the whole storage period. The total n-3 FA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were retained in the egg yolk till 35 and 28 days of storage, respectively, and slightly decreased after 35 and 28 days in the L groups. The total n-6 (Tn-6) FA was maintained in the yolk till 28 days of storage in the CA and PF groups, respectively. The VE, PF, and L groups upregulated the expression of Nrf-2, P38MAPK, HO-1, SOD-1, and GSH-Px as compared to the CA and control groups. The VE, PF, and L groups significantly increased the magnum primary folds and epithelium height as compared to CA and the control. Thus, it was concluded that the use of PF and L is better at preventing egg quality deterioration and lipid oxidation, maintaining more than 300 mg/egg n-3 FA during storage, by activating the Nrf-2 pathway through the phosphorylation of P38MAPK, and enhancing the phase-2 antioxidant defense enzymes, namely, SOD, GSH-Px, and HO-1.

Gandouling Mitigates CuSO4-Induced Heart Injury in Rats

We assessed the protective effects of Gandouling (GDL) on copper sulfate (CuSO4)-induced heart injuries in Sprague−Dawley rats, which were randomly divided into the control, CuSO4, GDL + CuSO4 and penicillamine + CuSO4 groups. The rats received intragastric GDL (400 mg/kg body weight) once per day for 42 consecutive days after 56 days of CuSO4 exposure, and penicillamine was used as a positive control. The levels of plasma inflammatory cytokines (IMA, hFABP, cTn-I and BNP) were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The histopathological symptoms were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy. To determine the underlying mechanism, Western blotting was conducted for the detection of the heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression. The results revealed that GDL supplementation alleviated the histopathological symptoms of the rat heart tissue, promoted Cu excretion to attenuate impairment, and significantly decreased inflammatory cytokine levels in the plasma (p < 0.01). In addition, GDL increased the HO-1 expression in the rat hepatic tissue. The protective effect of GDL on the heart was superior to that of penicillamine. Overall, these findings indicate that GDL alleviates hepatic heart injury after a Cu overaccumulation challenge, and GDL supplements can be beneficial for patients with Wilson’s disease.

Stability and digestibility of encapsulated lycopene in different emulsion systems stabilized by acid-modified soybean lipophilic protein

BACKGROUND

Owing to the harsh acidic environment of the stomach, acid-resistant emulsion products have wide-ranging applications in the food industry. Herein, natural soybean lipophilic protein (LP) was used to establish coarse emulsions, nanoemulsions, emulsion gels, and high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPE) under acidic conditions. Furthermore, the carrying characteristics of the acid-resistant emulsion system with lycopene were explored.

RESULTS

Comparisons of particle sizes, potentials, microstructures, and rheology of the four carrier systems revealed that HIPPE has a single particle-size distribution, the largest zeta potential, and an elastic gel-like network structure. Comparison of encapsulation rates indicated that HIPPE had the best effect on encapsulating lycopene, reaching approximately 90%. The pH stability, storage stability, and simulated in vitro digestion experiments showed that the four emulsions that were stable under acidic conditions had good acid resistance. Among them, the acid-induced LP-stabilized HIPPE had the best storage stability and superior compatibility with the harsh acidic environment of the stomach, which not only achieved the purpose of delaying the release of lipids but also conferred better protection to lycopene in the gastric tract; moreover, it achieved the best bioavailability.

CONCLUSION

LP-stabilized HIPPE has the best stability and can yield better absorption and utilization of lycopene by the body. The results of this study are helpful for the development of acid-resistant functional emulsion foods that are conducive to the absorption of lycopene. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluation of Hepatic Detoxification Effects of Enteromorpha prolifera Polysaccharides against Aflatoxin B1 in Broiler Chickens

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is a major risk factor in animal feed. Seaweed (Enteromorpha prolifera)-derived polysaccharides (SDP) are natural antioxidants with multiple biological functions, which may have an in vivo detoxification effect on AFB₁. The current study aimed to evaluate whether SDP could mitigate AFB₁-induced hepatotoxicity in broilers. A total of 216 chickens (male, 5 weeks old) were randomly allocated to three groups with differing feeding patterns, lasting 4 weeks: (1) control group (CON, fed a basal diet); (2) AFB₁ group (fed a basal diet mixed with 0.1 mg/kg AFB₁); and (3) AFB₁ + SDP group (AFB₁ group + 0.25% SDP). The results showed that dietary SDP improved the liver function-related biochemical indicators in serum, and reversed the increase in relative liver weight, hepatic apoptosis and histological damage of broilers exposed to AFB₁. SDP treatment also reduced the activity and mRNA expression of phase I detoxification enzymes, while increasing the activity and mRNA expression of phase II detoxification enzymes in the livers of AFB₁-exposed broilers, which was involved in the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling. In conclusion, dietary SDP alleviated AFB₁-induced liver injury of broilers through inhibiting phase I detoxification enzymes and upregulating p38MAPK/Nrf2-mediated phase II detoxification enzymes pathway.

Use of Maca Powder (Lepidium meyenii) as Feed Additive in Diets of Laying Quails at Different Ages: Its Effect on Performance, Eggshell Quality, Serum, Ileum, and Bone Properties

Using additives can reduce the negative effects of aging on factors affecting profitability, such as the availability of nutrients, production, and egg quality. Maca is an herbaceous plant rich in protein, crude oil, essential acids, and pharmacological compounds. Maca has positive effects on different health parameters. In this study, the effect of adding Maca powder to the diets of young and old laying quails at the end of the 10-week trial was investigated. In total, 150 laying Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) (209.1 ± 10.0 g) were randomly distributed to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with two ages (10 weeks and 30 weeks) and three Maca powder levels (0, 1, or 2 g/kg), with five subgroups per treatment. According to the study, eggshell quality, total cholesterol, triglyceride, progesterone, and testosterone concentrations of serum were lower in old quail than in young quail, while egg weight, feed intake, and follicle-stimulating hormone increased significantly as quail aged. (p < 0.05). Furthermore, aging negatively affected the histomorphology of the ileum and cortical bone thickness (p < 0.05). Additional findings show that adding 1 g/kg Maca powder to the diet of quail significantly improved eggshell, ileum, and bone traits that deteriorate with age, without affecting performance, and adding 2 g/kg Maca powder to the diet significantly reduced serum total cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). Incorporating Maca powder into the diet of aged birds could reduce the negative effects of aging.

Lycopene alleviates di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced splenic injury by activating P62-Keap1-NRF2 signaling

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an omnipresent environmental pollutant. It has been determined that DEHP is involved in multiple health disorders. Lycopene (Lyc) is a natural carotenoid pigment, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it is not clear whether Lyc can protect the spleen from DEHP-induced oxidative damage. A total of 140 mice were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 20) and continuously gavaged with corn oil, distilled water, DEHP (500 or 1000 mg/kg BW/day) and/or Lyc (5 mg/kg BW/day) for 28 days. Histopathological and ultrastructural results showed a DEHP-induced inflammatory response and mitochondrial injuries. Moreover, DEHP exposure induced redox imbalance, which resulted in the up-regulation of ROS activity and MDA content, and the down-regulation of T-AOC, T-SOD and CAT in the DEHP groups. Simultaneously, our results also demonstrated that DEHP-induced kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) expression was downregulated, and the expression levels of P62, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (NRF2) and their downstream target genes were up-regulated. However, the supplementary Lyc reverted these changes to normal levels. Together, Lyc prevented DEHP-induced splenic injuries by regulating the P62-Keap1-NRF2 signaling pathway. Hence, the protective effects of Lyc might be a therapeutic strategy to ameliorate DEHP-induced splenic damage.

The combination of nicotinamide mononucleotide and lycopene prevents cognitive impairment and attenuates oxidative damage in D-galactose induced aging models via Keap1-Nrf2 signaling

Aging is referred to progressive dysfunction of body organs, including the brain. This study aims to explore the anti-aging effect of combing nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and lycopene (Lyco) (NMN + Lyco) on aging rats and senescent PC12 cells. Both in vivo and in vitro aging models were established using D-galactose (D-gal). The combination showed a trend to superiority over monotherapy in preventing aging in vivo and in vitro. Morris water maze test showed that NMN + Lyco effectively improved the ability of spatial location learning and memory of aging model rats. NMN + Lyco mitigated the oxidative stress of rat brains, livers, and PC12 cells by elevating the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), GSH, as well as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content. CCK-8 assay, senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, and flow cytometer confirmed the cellular senescence of PC12 cells after exposing D-gal, and indicated the anti-senescence effect of NMN + Lyco in vitro. Moreover, NMN + Lyco effectively down-regulated the expressions of p53, p21, and p16 (senescence-related genes), and activated Keap1-Nrf2 signaling in both in vivo and in vitro aging models. In total, NMN + Lyco protected rats and PC12 cells from cognitive impairment and cellular senescence induced by D-gal, of which effects might be linked to the reduction of oxidative stress and the activation of Keap1-Nrf2 signaling.

Protective Effect of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone on DNA Damage of Chicken Follicular Granulosa Cells by Inhibiting CHK2/p53

The increase in follicular atresia and the decrease in the fecundity of laying hens occur with the aging process. Therefore, the key measure for maintaining high laying performance is to alleviate follicular atresia in the aging poultry. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), as an important pituitary hormone to promote follicle development and maturation, plays an important role in preventing reproductive aging in diverse animals. In this study, the physiological state of the prehierarchical small white follicles (SWFs) and atretic SWFs (ASWFs) were compared, followed by an exploration of the possible capacity of FSH to delay ASWFs’ progression in the hens. The results showed that the DNA damage within follicles increased with aging, along with Golgi complex disintegration, cell cycle arrest, increased apoptosis and autophagy in the ASWFs. Subsequently, the ACNU-induced follicular atresia model was established to evaluate the enhancing capacity of FSH on increasing cell proliferation and attenuating apoptosis in ASWFs. FSH inhibited DNA damage and promoted DNA repair by regulating the CHK2/p53 pathway. Furthermore, FSH inhibited CHK2/p53, thus, suppressing the disintegration of the Golgi complex, cell cycle arrest, and increased autophagy in the atretic follicles. Moreover, these effects from FSH treatment in ACNU-induced granulosa cells were similar to the treatment by a DNA repair agent AV-153. These results indicate that FSH protects aging-resulted DNA damage in granulosa cells by inhibiting CHK2/p53 in chicken prehierarchical follicles.

Naringin prevents follicular atresia by inhibiting oxidative stress in the aging chicken

Oxidative stress is an essential inducement in follicle atresia and ovarian aging, resulting in decline in female fecundity. As a natural and effective antioxidant, naringin was investigated to relieve chicken follicle atresia and ovarian aging. First, the cultured small white follicles (SWFs) from D280 hens were pretreated with 0.5 mM naringin for 24 h and then treated with H₂O₂ for 72 h to establish the oxidative stress model to evaluate the putative attenuating effects of naringin on follicle atresia. Meanwhile, SWFs of D580 hens were treated with naringin for 72 h to examine the attenuating effect on the physiological aging of SWFs. Finally, each hen was fed with naringin at a dose of 50 mg/kg every day to explore the effect of naringin on follicular development and laying performance in D580 hens. Results showed that naringin could rescue the antioxidant capacity decline by increasing the antioxidant-related indexes and expression of antioxidation-associated genes. It could also maintain the homeostasis of SWFs in both the H₂O₂-induced group and natural physiological aging group. In addition, naringin increased estrogen levels, capacity of antioxidants, and the laying performance in aged laying chickens. The thickness and strength of the eggshell were increased in the naringin-treated group as well. In conclusion, this study showed that naringin is capable of relieving SWFs atresia that was induced by oxidative stress and maintaining the laying performance of aging low-yielding hens by reducing oxidative stress.

Effect of Lycopene on the Growth Performance, Antioxidant Enzyme Activity, and Expression of Gene in the Keap1-Nrf2 Signaling Pathway of Arbor Acres Broilers

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dietary lycopene supplementation on the growth performance, antioxidant enzyme activity of serum and liver, and gene expressions associated with Kelch-like ech-associated protein-1 (Keap1)/Nuclear Factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway in liver of Arbor Acres broilers. A total of 288 1-day-old male broilers were randomly divided into 4 treatments with 6 replicates and 12 chickens for each replicate. The control group was fed with the basal diet, while the treated groups were fed with the basal diet with 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg lycopene in powder. Feed and water were provided ad libitum for 42 days. Compared with the control group, (a) the average daily gain increased (p = 0.002 vs. p = 0.001) and the feed conversion ratio decreased (p = 0.017 vs. p = 0.023) in groups treated with lycopene in the grower and whole phases, and the average daily feed intake was quadratically affected (p = 0.043) by lycopene in the grower phase; (b) the serum superoxide dismutase content was linearly affected (p = 0.035) by lycopene at 21 days; (c) the serum glutathione peroxidase content, superoxide dismutase content, and total antioxidant capability were higher (p = 0.014, p = 0.003, and p = 0.016, respectively) in the 30 mg/kg lycopene group at 42 days; (d) the liver glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase contents in groups treated with lycopene were higher (p ≤ 0.001 vs. p ≤ 0.001) at 21 days; (e) the liver glutathione peroxidase content was higher (p ≤ 0.001) in the 20 and 30 mg/kg lycopene groups, at 42 days; (f) the mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, superoxide dismutase 2, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1, and heme oxygenase 1 genes were higher (21 days: p = 0.042, p = 0.021, p = 0.035, and p = 0.043, respectively; 42 days: p = 0.038, p = 0.025, p = 0.034, and p = 0.043, respectively) in the 20 and 30 mg/kg lycopene groups at 21 and 42 days. The 30 mg/kg lycopene concentration improved the growth performance, antioxidant enzyme activity in serum and liver, and gene expression in the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway of Arbor Acres broilers.