Effect of boron supplementation of pig diets on the production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma

Protective Effects of Boric Acid Taken in Different Ways on Experimental Ovarian İschemia and Reperfusion

Ovarian ischemia is a gynecological emergency that occurs as a result of ovarian torsion, affects women of reproductive age, and reduces ovarian reserve. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of boric acid taken in different ways on histopathological changes, autophagy, oxidative stress, and DNA damage caused by ischemia and reperfusion in the ovary of adult female rats. We established seven groups of 70 adult female rats: untreated control, intraperitoneal boric acid group (IpBA), oral boric acid group (OBA), ischemia/reperfusion group (ischemia/2 h reperfusion; OIR), ischemia/reperfusion and local boric acid group (OIR + LBA), ischemia/reperfusion and intraperitoneal boric acid group (OIR + IpBA), and ischemia/reperfusion and oral boric acid group (OIR + OBA). On the 31st day of the experimental procedure, both ovaries were harvested for histologic (hematoxylen and eosin and Masson trichrom), biochemical (ELISA and AMH, MDA, SOD, and CAT analyses), and comet evaluation. In the OIR group, hemorrhage, edema, inflammation, and diminished follicle reserve were seen in the ovary. Boric acid treatment reduced the ovarian ischemia/reperfusion damage, and the follicles exhibited similar morphological features to the control group. Moreover, boric acid treatment decreased the levels of Hsp70, NF-KB, COX-2, and CD31, which increased as a result of OIR. On the other hand, SCF and AMH levels, which decreased as a result of OIR, increased with boric acid treatment. The levels of autophagy markers (Beclin-1, LC3, and p62) reached values close to those of the control group. According to the biochemical findings, it was concluded that boric acid is also effective on oxidative stress, and the AMH level was particularly high in the OIR + OBA group, consistent with the immunohistochemical staining result. In addition, it was observed that the DNA damage caused by OIR reached values close to those of the control group, especially in the OBA after OIR. This study showed the therapeutic effects of boric acid on OIR injuries; thus, boric acid may be a potential therapeutic agent for ovarian protection and fertility preservation in cases that may cause ovarian torsion.

Boric Acid Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

Acute lung injury (ALI) poses a significant medical challenge due to its widespread occurrence and high mortality rates. Despite extensive efforts, current clinical interventions for ALI have shown limited success. Inflammation plays a central role within ALI progress, and boric acid (BA) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. However, its potential to mitigate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI remains an area awaiting exploration in research. To bridge this research gap, we created a mouse model of ALI induced by intraperitoneal LPS injection. We employed a comprehensive set of evaluation criteria, including H&E staining, wet/dry ratio measurement, malondialdehyde (MDA)/superoxide dismutase (SOD) the oxidative stress-related biomarkers, assessment of alveolar edema, hemorrhage, inflammatory cell infiltration, and examination of thickened alveolar septum to quantify lung injury. Additionally, we measured inflammatory cytokine levels using ELISA and assessed Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions through western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). ER stress-related markers (GRP78, CHOP) were analyzed through western blot analysis. Our findings revealed that prophylactic treatment with BA effectively attenuated LPS-induced ALI, as supported by improved pathological alterations, decreased total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and reduced pulmonary edema. Furthermore, BA exhibited anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing inflammatory cytokines within the lung tissue. BA ingestion caused upregulation in SOD and a decrease in MDA contents in lung tissue homogenates. BA downregulated the levels of GRP78 and CHOP compared to the LPS group. Remarkably, BA also upregulated transcription and protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 compared to the LPS group. In conclusion, our study highlights BA's potential as a novel promising prophylactic agent for LPS-induced ALI, offering avenue for improving clinical management of this condition.

Boron exhibits hepatoprotective effect together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways in rats exposed to aflatoxin B1

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxins are one of the important environmental factors that pose a risk to living organisms. On the other hand, it has been indicated in research that boron intake has beneficial effects on organisms. In this study, the effect of boron was disclosed in rats exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), which poses a toxicological risk.

METHODS

A total of 36 male Sprague Dawley rats were separated into 6 groups and 0.125 mg/kg bw AFB1 and 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg bw doses of boron were given orally for 21 days. End of the experiment, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological analyses were performed.

RESULTS

AFB1 treatment increased liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, and ALP) and malondialdehyde level; on the other hand, it caused a decrease in glutathione level, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of apoptotic (Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Caspase-9, and p53) and pro-inflammatory (TNF-α and NFκB) genes increased and the mRNA expression of the anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2) decreased in liver tissue. Also, AFB1 treatment increased DNA damage and caused histopathological alterations in the liver tissue. Additionally, boron applications at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg bw given with AFB1 reversed these negative changes.

CONCLUSIONS

As a result, boron exhibited hepatoprotective effect together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects against AFB1-induced liver damage.

In silico and biological activity evaluation of quercetin-boron hybrid compounds, anti-quorum sensing effect as alternative potential against microbial resistance

Boronic acid compounds and the natural flavonoid compound quercetin were handled to synthesize two novel ligands encoded as B1(2,2'-(1,4-phenylenebis (benzo [1,3,2] dioxaborole-2,5-diyl)) bis (3,5,7-trihydroxy-4H- chromen-4-one) and B2(3.3.6. 3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(2-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)benzo[d][1,3,2]dioxaborol-5-yl)- 4 H-chromene-4). Antioxidant activities of ligands were investigated by DPPH, ABTS and CUPRAC methods. Cholinesterase inhibition effects of ligands were determined by acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition methods, cytotoxic effects of ligands were applied to healthy breast and colon cancer cell lines by MTT method, and urease and tyrosinase enzyme activities were determined. Antimicrobial properties of the compounds were analyzed by detecting their anti-QS potentials on Chromobacterium violaceum biosensor strain. Both compounds were found to have significant antioxidant effects compared to controls. It was determined that the compound B1 at 1-10 µg/mL was more active than the reference compounds (α-TOC and BHT). Moreover, the enzyme activity studies on ligands demonstrated that acetylchoinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzyme inhibitions were higher than the reference compounds. As expected, boron derivatives exhibited respectable activity against the biofilms of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and P. aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). These results demonstrate the potential applicability of boron derivatives in the treatment of biofilm-associated infections and provide a practical strategy for the design of new boron-based antimicrobial materials. In silico molecular docking studies were performed on ligands to identify newly synthesized compounds. The binding parameter values and binding sites of the compounds were also determined. In conclusion, our studies showed that newly synthesized hybrid compounds could be solutions for antimicrobial resistance and enzyme-related disorders.

The Immune Regulatory Effect of Boron on Ostrich Chick Splenic Lymphocytes

Boron is a trace element which plays important roles in immune response. The relationship between boron and splenic lymphocyte proliferation, apoptosis, secretion of cytokines, and genes potentially related to immune response in ostrich chicks were investigated in the present study. Different concentrations of boron (0, 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mmol/L) were applied to splenic lymphocytes of African ostrich, respectively. The effect of boron on lymphocyte proliferation was checked by the CCK-8 method. Flow cytometry was used to detect the effect of boron on apoptosis. The secretion levels of IL-6 and IFN-α were determined by ELISA. Splenic lymphocyte gene expression profiles of ostrich chicks treated with boron (0, 0.1, 100 mmol/L) were studied using RNA-seq technology. The results showed that cell proliferation increased with 0.01-10 mmol/L boron, when it was 25-100 mmol/L, the cell proliferation gradually decreased as the boron concentration increased. Apoptosis ratio in ostrich splenic lymphocytes was closely related to boron concentrations. 0.01- and 0.1-mmol/L boron inhibited apoptosis in splenic lymphocytes, whereas 1, 10, 50, and 100-mmol/L boron promoted apoptosis. As the concentration of boron increased, the secretion of IL-6 gradually decreased; IFN-α was initially increased and then decreased with boron concentrations increased, reaching the maximum level with 1 mmol/L boron. In terms of the RNA-Seq data, there was no differentially expressed gene between the 0- and 0.1-mmol/L boron-treated samples; 21 differentially expressed genes were found between the 0- and 100-mmol/L boron-treated samples; 43 differentially expressed genes were found between the 0.1- and 100-mmol/L boron-treated samples. Functional analysis of the differentially expressed genes by Gene Ontology verified multiple functions associated with immune response. Pathway analysis showed that systemic lupus erythematosus, alcoholism, viral carcinogenesis, and necroptosis pathway were the major enriched pathways, and BIRC2-3, FTH1, and IL-1β genes showed differential expression in necroptosis pathway. These results demonstrated that low concentrations (0.01-0.1 mmol/L) of boron may promote the proliferation and the secretion of cytokines, inhibit cell apoptosis of ostrich splenic lymphocytes by enhancing the function of the cell membrane and the activity of intracellular catalytic enzymes, whereas high-concentration (25-100 mmol/L) boron had opposite effects on cells. The necroptosis pathway might play a pivotal role in regulating the immune response of boron-treated splenic lymphocytes in ostrich chicks.

Moderate dietary boron supplementation improved growth performance, crude protein digestibility and diarrhea index in weaner pigs regardless to the sanitary condition

Objective

The study was conducted to investigate the impact of boron supplementation on nutrient digestibility, inflammatory responses, blood metabolites and diarrhea index, and their relevance to growth performance in weaned pigs housed in good and poor sanitary environments for 14 days after weaning.

Methods

A total of 108 male pigs (Duroc×[Yorkshire×Landrace]) weaned at 21 days of age were used in a randomized complete block design with 2×3 factorial arrangement. Pigs were assigned to three boron treatments (0, 5, and 10 mg/kg) under two environments (good and poor sanitary) to give six replicates per treatment (3 pigs per replicate). On 0, 7, and 14 days, one pig per replicate was euthanized to collect, ileum tissue samples, and rectal fecal samples.

Results

Boron supplementation quadratically influenced (p<0.001) feed intake and weight gain in pigs housed in good sanitary conditions from 1 to 14 days post-weaning where pigs offered 5 mg/kg boron optimized weight gain and feed intake. There is a quadratic interaction (p = 0.019) on feed intake for 1 to 14 days post-weaning where 5 mg/kg boron increased feed intake in good sanitary conditions. Pigs housed in the poor sanitary environment decreased (p<0.001) villus height and crypt depth in ileum at days 7 and 14. On day 7 and 14, crude protein digestibility was quadratically influenced (p<0.05) by boron supplementation. Boron supplementation linearly increased (p<0.05) plasma calcium and cholesterol levels whilst linearly (p = 0.005) reducing plasma triglyceride concentrations. Diarrhea index was quadratically influenced (p<0.05) by boron supplementations regardless of sanitary conditions where 5 mg/kg boron inclusion achieved the lowest diarrhea index.

Conclusion

Pigs offered 5 mg/kg of boron increased weight gain which may be deduced by improved dry matter, crude protein, and energy digestibility regardless of the sanitary conditions.

Evaluation of Boron's Adjuvant Activity in Inactive Bacterin Vaccines Using the Mice Model

Vaccination is the most effective, reliable, and economical way of preventing or reducing the effect of infectious diseases. When preparing inactive vaccines, a range of additives called adjuvants are necessary to enhance the magnitude of the immune response. Boron has a wide range of industrial and medical applications, and its positive effects on distinct functions have been described in plants, humans, and animals. However, no studies exist about the possible adjuvant activities of boron compounds in vaccines. Hence, in this study, the potential adjuvant effect of boric acid was explored and compared with common veterinary adjuvants in a mice model. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) used as vaccine antigen was isolated from dairy cows with bovine mastitis. Vaccines adjuvanted with boric acid, aluminum hydroxide, Montanide ISA 50 and ISA 206, and Montanide + boric acid combinations were prepared. The efficacy of vaccines was evaluated according to local reactions at the injection site, C-reactive protein, total Ig G, total Ig M, and anti-S. aureus antibody levels in mice. Boric acid reduced local inflammatory reactions induced by the Montanide adjuvants. Moreover, mice vaccinated with boric acid-adjuvanted vaccine had higher levels of anti-S. aureus antibody than those in the controls (P < 0.05) and were similar to the levels found in mice sensitized with aluminum hydroxide. Total Ig G and Ig M results were, however, unsuitable for the assessment of adjuvant activity for this study. In conclusion, this study revealed that boric acid has an adjuvant potential in inactive bacterin vaccines, but further target animal studies are needed.

GPR30 mediated effects of boron on rat spleen lymphocyte proliferation, apoptosis, and immune function

Supplementing different quantities of boron can significantly affect immune function in rat spleen, but the mechanism of action behind this effect remains unclear. Our purpose was to study the involvement of the estrogen membrane receptor GPR30 in the effect of boron on the proliferation, apoptosis, and immune function of rat spleen lymphocytes. Results showed that the addition of 0.4 mmol/L boron had a beneficial effect on the immune function and proliferation of spleen lymphocytes, but the addition of 40 mmol/L boron had opposite effect. After using G-15 to selectively inhibit GPR30, the proportions of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, the content of IL-2 and IFN-γ, and the expression of PCNA protein were significantly decreased, while lymphocyte apoptosis rate increased significantly (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). After G-15 treatment, the addition of 0.4 mmol/L boron had no effects on T cell subsets, lymphocyte proliferation, PCNA protein expression, and IgG and cytokine content (P > 0.05), while the addition of 40 mmol/L boron did not change the effects on lymphocyte subsets, proliferation and apoptosis. The results suggested that GPR30 mediates the effects of 0.4 mmol/L boron boron on the proliferation, apoptosis and immune function of spleen lymphocytes.

Boron, a Trace Mineral, Alleviates Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

The present study was considered to assess the protective effects of boron (B) on gentamicin-induced oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, and histopathological changes in rat kidneys. Rats were split into eight equal groups which were as follows: control (fed with low-boron diet); gentamicin group (100 mg/kg, i.p.); B₅, B₁₀, and B₂₀ (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg B, i.p.) groups; gentamicin (100 mg/kg, i.p.) plus B₅, B₁₀, and B₂₀ (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg B, i.p.) groups. B was given to rats 4 days before the gentamicin treatment and B administration was completed on the 14th day. Gentamicin administration was started on the 4th day and finished on the 12th day. Gentamicin increased malondialdehyde levels, while reduced glutathione levels in the blood and kidney. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities of erythrocyte were decreased. Besides, serum and kidney nitric oxide and 8-dihydroxyguanidine levels were increased by gentamicin. Additionally, serum levels and kidney mRNA expressions of TNF-α, NFκB, IL-1β, and IFN-γ were found to be the highest in the gentamicin group. Histopathologically, interstitial hemorrhage and tubular necrosis were detected in the kidneys of the gentamicin group. Nonetheless, B administration reversed gentamicin-induced lipid peroxidation, antioxidant status, and inflammation. In conclusion, B has a preventive effect against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and ameliorates kidney tissues of the rat.

Propolis and Its Combination with Boric Acid Protect Against Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, DNA Damage, and Apoptosis in Rats

Ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury which causes kidney dysfunction is one of the most studied diseases directly linked to oxidative stress. In this regard, it is important to protect cells against damage by inducing antioxidant response. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic roles and possible mechanisms of propolis and boric acid in kidney I/R injury based on relevant basic research and clinical studies. Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 50 min of ischemia followed by 3 h of reperfusion. Animals were randomly divided into a control group (the abdominal wall was just opened and closed), an I/R injury group, the propolis intervention group (200 mg/kg, intragastric administration, 1 h before ischemia), boric acid intervention group (14 mg/kg, intragastric administration 1 h before ischemia), and the propolis + boric acid intervention group (intragastric administration 1 h before ischemia). Kidney function, the antioxidant defensive system, and renal damage were assessed. In addition, the oxidative stress and inflammatory status were estimated in renal tissue. Furthermore, DNA damageand apoptosis were detected by immunohistochemistry. When compared with I/R group, propolis alone and especially propolis + boric acid groups significantly improved functional parameters. While the antioxidant response was increased, renal injury size and apoptosis were significantly decreased in both groups. Also, the MDA and TNF-α levels besides the 8-OHdG formation were downregulated. According to these outcomes, it can be said that especially propolis together with boric acid ameliorates kidney injury caused by I/R through acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic agent. In conclusion, propolis alone and its combination with boric acid could be developed as therapeutic agents against serious renal I/R injuries.

Effects of boron-containing compounds on immune responses: review and patenting trends

INTRODUCTION

Boron-containing compounds induce effects on immune responses. Such effects are interesting to the biomedical field for the development of therapeutic tools to modulate the immune system.

AREAS COVERED

The scope of BCC use to modify immune responses is expanding, mainly with regard to inflammatory diseases. The information was organized to demonstrate the breadth of reported effects. BCCs act as modulators of innate and adaptive immunity, with the former including regulation of cluster differentiation and cytokine production. In addition, BCCs exert effects on inflammation induced by infectious and noninfectious agents, and there are also reports regarding their effects on mechanisms involving hypersensitivity and transplants. Finally, the authors discuss the beneficial effects of BCCs on pathologies involving various targets and mechanisms.

EXPERT OPINION

Some BCCs are currently used as drugs in humans. The mechanisms by which these BCCs modulate immune responses, as well as the required structure-activity relationship for each observed mechanism of action, should be clarified. The former will allow for the development of improved immunomodulatory drugs with extensive applications in medicine. Patenting trends involve claims concerning the synthesis and actions of identified molecules with a defined profile regarding cytokines, cell differentiation, proliferation, and antibody production.

Boron, Chromium, Manganese, and Nickel in Agricultural Animal Production

This paper provides an overview of research that has been conducted with manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and boron (B) in poultry, swine, and ruminants. Manganese is an essential trace mineral that functions as an enzyme component and enzyme activator. A deficiency of Mn results in a variety of bone abnormalities, and Mn deficiency signs have been observed under practical conditions in poultry and cattle. Chromium can potentiate the action of insulin, but whether Cr is an essential trace mineral is controversial. Insulin sensitivity has been enhanced by Cr in cattle, swine, and broilers. Responses to Cr supplementation have been variable. Production responses to Cr supplementation have been most consistent in animals exposed to various stressors (heat, cold, weaning, etc). The legality of supplementing Cr to animal diets varies among countries, Cr sources, and animal species. A specific biochemical function for Ni and B has not been identified in mammals. Signs of Ni deficiency have been produced experimentally in a number of animal species. Nickel may affect rumen microbial fermentation in ruminants, as Ni is a component of bacterial urease and cofactor F₄₃₀ in methanogenic bacteria. There is little evidence that dietary Ni limits animal production under practical conditions. Beneficial effects of B supplementation on growth and bone strength have been seen in poultry and swine, but results have been variable.

The Physiological Role of Boron on Health

Boron is an essential mineral that plays an important role in several biological processes. Boron is required for growth of plants, animals, and humans. There are increasing evidences of this nutrient showing a variety of pleiotropic effects, ranging from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to the modulation of different body systems. In the past few years, the trials showed disease-related polymorphisms of boron in different species, which has drawn attention of scientists to the significance of boron to health. Low boron profile has been related with poor immune function, increased risk of mortality, osteoporosis, and cognitive deterioration. High boron status revealed injury to cell and toxicity in different animals and humans. Some studies have shown some benefits of higher boron status, but findings have been generally mixed, which perhaps accentuates the fact that dietary intake will benefit only if supplemental amount is appropriate. The health benefits of boron are numerous in animals and humans; for instance, it affects the growth at safe intake. Central nervous system shows improvement and immune organs exhibit enhanced immunity with boron supplementation. Hepatic metabolism also shows positive changes in response to dietary boron intake. Furthermore, animals and human fed diets supplemented with boron reveal improved bone density and other benefits including embryonic development, wound healing, and cancer therapy. It has also been reported that boron affects the metabolism of several enzymes and minerals. In the background of these health benefits, low or high boron status is giving cause for concern. Additionally, researches are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of boron effects, and determine the requirements in different species.

Several effects of boron are induced by uncoupling steroid hormones from their transporters in blood

Boron is increasingly added to food supplements due to multiple effects that have been reported in mammals after boric acid administration. Among these effects are inflammatory process control, bone and muscle strength enhancement, protein expression regulation, and a decreased risk of developing some pathologies in which these processes are key, such as osteoporosis, dermatological inflammatory non-infectious maladies and diseases affecting the central nervous system. Experimental data have suggested that steroid hormone levels in plasma change after boric acid administration, but a clear mechanism behind these variations has not been established. We analyzed possibilities for these changes and hypothesized that boric acid disrupts the interactions between steroid hormones and several carriers in plasma. In particular, we proposed that there is an uncoupling of the interactions between sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and estrogens and testosterone and that there are alterations in the binding of hydrophobic ligands by other carrier proteins in plasma. Further experimental and computational studies are required to support the hypothesis that boric acid and probably other boron-containing compounds can displace steroid hormones from their plasma carriers. If such phenomena are confirmed, boron administration with a clear mechanism could be employed as a therapeutic agent in several diseases or physiological events that require modulation of steroid hormone levels in plasma.

Influence of boron supplementation on performance, immunity and antioxidant status of lambs fed diets with or without adequate level of calcium

Little is known about biological significance of effects of dietary Boron (B) and Calcium (Ca) interaction on health and production of farm animals. This is a preliminary investigation to evaluate the effects of B supplementation in lambs fed diets with (normal) or without adequate (low) levels of Ca. Twenty-four crossbred ram lambs were randomly distributed into four groups with six animals each in a 2x2 factorial design namely, normal-Ca diet (NCa) and low-Ca diet (LCa) fed without or with 40 ppm B (NCaB-40 and LCaB-40). The lambs were fed paddy straw and hybrid napier hay-based total mixed ration (60 roughage: 40 concentrate) during 180 days experimental period. Compared to control, the LCa diet lowered (P<0.01) average daily gain of lambs, but B-supplementation (LCaB-40) of the same nullified the effect. The lowered (P<0.05) total antioxidant activity and humoral immune response in lambs fed LCa diet were restored (P>0.05) to become at par with the control (NCa) upon supplementation of B (LCaB-40). The mRNA expression of SOD1 was lowered (P<0.05) due to LCa diet feeding which too was normalized on B-supplementation to become at par (P>0.05) with the control (NCa). Further, B-supplementation restored lowered (P<0.05) SOD1 gene expression on LCa diet, but enhanced (P<0.05) that in NCaB-40 group, when compared to the control (NCa) diet fed animals. However, these variations were not reflected in the SOD activity in the erythrocytes. The cell-mediated immune response was higher (P<0.05) in lambs fed LCa and LCaB-40 groups and there was no significant interaction between the levels of either Ca or B in diets with the period of immune response measurement. B- supplementation of LCa diet ameliorated tissue degenerative changes in liver and kidney. It was concluded that feeding LCa diet to lambs resulted in reduced growth rate, total antioxidant activity, humoral immune response along with degenerative changes in liver and kidney tissues, but B-supplementation of such diet restored most of these changes and ameliorated histopathological alterations.

Activation of the EIF2α/ATF4 and ATF6 Pathways in DU-145 Cells by Boric Acid at the Concentration Reported in Men at the US Mean Boron Intake

Fruits, nuts, legumes, and vegetables are rich sources of boron (B), an essential plant nutrient with chemopreventive properties. Blood boric acid (BA) levels reflect recent B intake, and men at the US mean intake have a reported non-fasting level of 10 μM. Treatment of DU-145 prostate cancer cells with physiological concentrations of BA inhibits cell proliferation without causing apoptosis and activates eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α). EIF2α induces cell differentiation and protects cells by redirecting gene expression to manage endoplasmic reticulum stress. Our objective was to determine the temporal expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-activated genes in DU-145 prostate cells treated with 10 μM BA. Immunoblots showed post-treatment increases in eIF2α protein at 30 min and ATF4 and ATF6 proteins at 1 h and 30 min, respectively. The increase in ATF4 was accompanied by an increase in the expression of its downstream genes growth arrest and DNA damage-induced protein 34 (GADD34) and homocysteine-induced ER protein (Herp), but a decrease in GADD153/CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), a pro-apoptotic gene. The increase in ATF6 was accompanied by an increase in expression of its downstream genes GRP78/BiP, calreticulin, Grp94, and EDEM. BA did not activate IRE1 or induce cleavage of XBP1 mRNA, a target of IRE1. Low boron status has been associated with increased cancer risk, low bone mineralization, and retinal degeneration. ATF4 and BiP/GRP78 function in osteogenesis and bone remodeling, calreticulin is required for tumor suppressor p53 function and mineralization of teeth, and BiP/GRP78 and EDEM prevent the aggregation of misfolded opsins which leads to retinal degeneration. The identification of BA-activated genes that regulate its phenotypic effects provides a molecular underpinning for boron nutrition and biology.

The adjuvant use of calcium fructoborate and borax with etanercept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Pilot study

Objective:

This study was designed to evaluate the effects calcium fructoborate (CFB) and sodium tetraborate (NTB) as supplements in Iraqi patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) maintained on etanercept.

Materials and Methods:

A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial with 60 days treatment period was carried out at Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical city, Baghdad, Iraq. Eighty RA patients were randomized into three groups to receive either 220 mg/day CFB, 55 mg/day NTB in capsule dosage form (equivalent to 6 mg elemental Boron), or placebo formula once daily. Only 72 patients completed the study. All patients were clinically evaluated utilizing DAS28-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), simple disease activity index-C-reactive protein (CRP), and clinical disease activity index scores at baseline, and at the end of the study. Venous blood was obtained at baseline and after 60 days, and utilized for the measurement of ESR, hemoglobin, in addition to evaluation of high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and IL-6.

Results:

After 60 days, both types of boron significantly improve the clinical scores, in association with significant decrease in the serum levels of ESR, hsCRP, IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α with remarkable superiority for calcium fructoborate (CFB) over sodium tetraborate (NTB), compared to baseline and placebo-treated group.

Conclusion:

The use of boron, as adjuvant with etanercept, has potentiated therapeutic outcomes in RA patients, and may be a new strategy to improve treatment, and avoid the problems associated with biologics utilized in RA treatment.

Protective effects of boron and vitamin E on ethylene glycol-induced renal crystal calcium deposition in rat

Objectives. Kidney stone disease is a common form of renal disease. Antioxidants, such as vitamin E (Vit E) and boron, are substances that reduce the damage caused by oxidation.

Methods. Adult male rats were divided into 5 groups (n=6). In group 1, rats received standard food and water for 28 days (control group); in group 2, standard rodent food and water with 0.75% ethylene glycol/d (dissolved in drinking water) (EG Group); in group 3, similar to group 2, with 3 mg of boron/d (dissolved in water) (EG+B Group); in group 4, similar to group 2, with 200 IU of vitamin E injected intraperitoneally on the first day and the 14th day, (EG+Vit E Group); in group 5, mix of groups 3 and 4, respectively (EG+B+Vit E Group).

Results. Kidney sections showed that crystals in the EG group increased significantly in comparison with the control group. Crystal calcium deposition score in groups of EG+B (160), EG+Vit E, and EG+B+Vit E showed a significant decrease compared to EG group. Measurement of the renal tubules area and renal tubular epithelial histological score showed the highest significant dilation in the EG group. Tubular dilation in the EG+B+Vit E group decreased compared to the EG+B and EG+Vit E groups.

Conclusions. Efficient effect of boron and Vit E supplements, separately and in combination, has a complimentary effect in protection against the formation of kidney stones, probably by decreasing oxidative stress.

The effect of boron on alveolar bone loss in osteoporotic rats

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of systemically administered boric acid on osteoporosis-related bone alterations, alveolar bone loss, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-b ligand (RANKL) expressions, and mandibular bone density in experimental periodontitis model in osteoporotic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six male Wistar rats were separated into five study groups: nonligated control (C, n = 6) group; periodontitis (P, n = 6) group; osteoporosis (O, n = 8) group; osteoporosis + periodontitis (O+P, n = 8) group, and osteoporosis + periodontitis with 50 mg/kg/d boric acid (BA50, n = 8) group for 15 days. Osteoporosis was created with intraperitoneal injection of 80 mg/kg retinoic acid for 15 days. Silk ligatures (4/0) were placed around the mandibular right first molar teeth to induce experimental periodontitis. After induction of osteoporosis and periodontitis, rats were sacrificed at Day 15. Alveolar bone loss was evaluated with a stereomicroscope by measuring the distance from the cement-enamel junction to the alveolar crest. Density measurements were performed on radiographs. RANKL and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining were performed on histological slides.

RESULTS

Alveolar bone loss was significantly higher in the O+P group than those of the other groups (P < 0.05). Boric acid decreased bone loss (P < 0.05). TRAP + osteoclast numbers were highest in the P group and lowest in the control group. The differences in TRAP + osteoclast numbers among control, P, O+P, and BA50 groups were significant (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in RANKL expression and mandibular bone density (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Within limitations of this study, we conclude that boric acid may decrease alveolar bone loss in a rat model with periodontitis and osteoporosis.

Boron influences immune and antioxidant responses by modulating hepatic superoxide dismutase activity under calcium deficit abiotic stress in Wistar rats

The influence of Boron (B) supplementation on immune and antioxidant status of rats with or without abiotic stress induced by dietary calcium (Ca) restriction was studied in a feeding trial of 90 days. Wistar strain rats (3-4 wk age, n=84) were divided into 7 dietary groups (4 replicates of 3 each) viz., normal-calcium (100%) basal diet alone (NC, control) or supplemented with B at 5 (NCB-5), 10 (NCB-10), 20 (NCB-20) and 40ppm (NCB-40) levels; low-calcium (50%) basal diet alone (LC) or supplemented with 40ppm B (LCB-40). After 75 days of experimental feeding, rats were challenged with intraperitoneal injection of sheep RBCs to assess their humoral immunity. At the end of the trial, cell-mediated immunity was assessed as foot pad reaction to sheep RBCs injected into the hind leg paws. Eight rats from each group were sacrificed to collect blood for estimation of minerals and total antioxidant activity, and liver for superoxide dismutase gene expression analysis. Supplementation of graded levels of B (5, 10, 20 and 40ppm) as borax in NC diets significantly increased (P<0.01) the footpad thickness and serum total antioxidant activity, hepatic expression levels of both Cu-Zn SOD (SOD1) and Mn-SOD (SOD2) mRNAs. The erythrocytic SOD activity and humoral response did not differ significantly among the dietary groups. In Ca restricted groups, humoral immune response was significantly decreased (P<0.01) compared to control but increased (P<0.05) with 40ppm B supplementation. Serum levels of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) remained similar among the dietary groups, while the manganese (Mn) content was significantly decreased (P<0.01) with increased levels of dietary B. In conclusion, B supplementation increased the hepatic mRNA expression levels of both SOD isoenzymes, thereby improving the immune and antioxidant status.

Investigation into the Effects of Boron on Liver Tissue Protein Carbonyl, MDA, and Glutathione Levels in Endotoxemia

Endotoxin has been known to cause the formation and damage of free radical. The importance of boron for human life is increasing each passing day, and its consuming fields are continuing to expand due to the advances in science and technology. Therefore, in our study, we intended to investigate into the effects of boron on liver tissue oxidative events. Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly separated into three equal groups in the experiments; control group, boron + endotoxin group, and endotoxin group. Dissolved in distilled water, boric acid (100 mg/kg) was administered to boron + endotoxin group via gavage procedure for 28 days. Only distilled water was administered to control and endotoxin groups via gavage procedure for 28 days. Then 4 mg/kg endotoxin (LPS; Escherichia coli 0111:B4) was intraperitoneally (ip) administered to boron + endotoxin and endotoxin groups on the 28th day. Sterile saline was injected into control group on the 28th day (ip). Malondialdehyde (MDA), which is the end product of lipid peroxidation in liver tissues, protein carbonyl compounds (PC), which are protein oxidization markers, and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. The results were compared with Mann-Whitney U test. When boron + endotoxin group is compared with endotoxin group, PC levels of endotoxin group showed a significant increase. When GSH levels are compared, GSH level in boron + endotoxin group decreased according to endotoxin group. Variations among all groups in MDA levels were found to be statistically insignificant. We are of the opinion that endotoxin affects the proteins by forming free radicals, and boron may also cause the structural and/or functional changes in proteins in order to protect proteins from oxidization.

Boric acid induces cytoplasmic stress granule formation, eIF2α phosphorylation, and ATF4 in prostate DU-145 cells

Dietary boron intake is associated with reduced prostate and lung cancer risk and increased bone mass. Boron is absorbed and circulated as boric acid (BA) and at physiological concentrations is a reversible competitive inhibitor of cyclic ADP ribose, the endogenous agonist of the ryanodine receptor calcium (Ca⁺²) channel, and lowers endoplasmic reticulum (ER) [Ca²⁺]. Low ER [Ca²⁺] has been reported to induce ER stress and activate the eIF2α/ATF4 pathway. Here we report that treatment of DU-145 prostate cells with physiological levels of BA induces ER stress with the formation of stress granules and mild activation of eIF2α, GRP78/BiP, and ATF4. Mild activation of eIF2α and its downstream transcription factor, ATF4, enables cells to reconfigure gene expression to manage stress conditions and mild activation of ATF4 is also required for the differentiation of osteoblast cells. Our results using physiological levels of boric acid identify the eIF2α/ATF pathway as a plausible mode of action that underpins the reported health effects of dietary boron.

The histopathological and morphometric investigation of the effects of systemically administered boric acid on alveolar bone loss in ligature-induced periodontitis in diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of systemically administered boric acid on alveolar bone loss, histopathological changes and oxidant/antioxidant status in ligature-induced periodontitis in diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-four Wistar rats were divided into six experimental groups: (1) non-ligated (NL, n = 6) group, (2) ligature only (LO, n = 6) group, (3) Streptozotocin only (STZ, n = 8) group, (4) STZ and ligature (STZ+LO, n = 8) group, (5) STZ, ligature and systemic administration of 15 mg/kg/day boric acid for 15 days (BA15, n = 8) group and (6) STZ, ligature and systemic administration of 30 mg/kg/day boric acid for 15 days (BA30, n = 8) group. Diabetes mellitus was induced by 60 mg/kg streptozotocin. Silk ligatures were placed at the gingival margin of lower first molars of the mandibular quadrant. The study duration was 15 days after diabetes induction and the animals were sacrificed at the end of this period. Changes in alveolar bone levels were clinically measured and tissues were histopathologically examined. Serum total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) levels and oxidative stress index (OSI) were evaluated. Primary outcome was alveolar bone loss. Seconder outcome (osteoblast number) was also measured.

RESULTS

At the end of 15 days, the alveolar bone loss was significantly higher in the STZ+LO group compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in alveolar bone loss between the STZ+LO 15 mg/kg boric acid and STZ+LO 30 mg/kg boric acid groups (p > 0.05). Systemically administered boric acid significantly decreased alveolar bone loss compared to the STZ+LO group (p < 0.05). The osteoblast number in the BA30 group was significantly higher than those of the NL, STZ and STZ+LO groups (p < 0.05). Inflammatory cell infiltration was significantly higher in the STZ+LO group the other groups (p < 0.05). Serum TAS levels were significantly higher in the NL and LO groups than the other groups (p < 0.05). The differences in TOS levels were not found to be significant among all the groups (p > 0.05). The OSI values of the BA30 group were significantly lower than the STZ+LO group (p < 0.05). Also, the differences in serum calcium and magnesium levels were insignificant among the all groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of this study, it can be suggested that BA, when administered systemically, may reduce alveolar bone loss in the diabetic rat model.

Effects of boron on structure and antioxidative activities of spleen in rats

In order to determine the relationship between boron and development of the spleen, especially in the promoting biological effects, we examined the effects of different levels of boron on weight, organ index, microstructure, and antioxidative activities of the spleen in rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were selected and treated with different concentrations of boron, and then, the organs were resected and weighed. One half of the tissue was fixed and embedded in paraffin to observe tissue structure changes. The other half of the tissue was homogenated for determining the antioxidant activities. The results showed that 40 mg/L of boron could increase weight, organ indexes, and antioxidant capacity of spleens and improve the spleen tissue structure, while the boron concentration above 80 mg/L could decrease weight, organ indexes, and antioxidant capacity of spleens and damage the spleen tissue structure. The higher the concentration, the more serious the damage was. Especially at the concentration of 640 mg/L, it could significantly inhibit the development of the spleen and even exhibit toxic effect. Hence, low boron concentration played a protective role in the development of the spleen, while high boron concentration could damage the organs and even produce toxic effect.

Effects of boric acid and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate on necrotizing enterocolitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to study the effects of boric acid (BA) and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) on oxidative stress and inflammation in an experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) rat model.

METHODS

Experimental NEC was induced in 40 newborn Sprague-Dawley rats by asphyxia and hypothermia applied in 3 consecutive days. Rats were subdivided into 4 subgroups as NEC, NEC+BA, NEC+2-APB, and controls. BA and 2-APB were applied daily before the procedure. Serum total antioxidant status, superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Pathological changes for NEC in intestinal architecture were evaluated by a grading system.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with BA and 2-APB resulted in a decrease in NEC incidence. In all of the NEC groups, decreased serum levels of GSH and SOD were measured. Boron limited GSH consumption but had no effect on SOD levels. Total antioxidant status levels were not statistically different among groups. In our experimental NEC model, BA, but not 2-APB, prevented the increase of TNF-α. Pretreatment with BA and 2-APB downregulated the activity levels of IL-6 in NEC.

CONCLUSIONS

In the experimental NEC model, BA and 2-APB partly prevent NEC formation, modulate the oxidative stress parameters, bring a significant decrease in GSH consumption, and enhance the antioxidant defense mechanism, but have no effect on total antioxidant status. BA inhibits the hypoxia and hypothermia-induced increase in both IL-6 and TNF-a, but 2-APB only in IL-6. Boron may be beneficial in preventing NEC.

Boric acid inhibits alveolar bone loss in rats by affecting RANKL and osteoprotegerin expression

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effects of systemic boric acid on the levels of expression of RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) and on histopathologic and histometric changes in a rat periodontitis model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into three groups of eight animals each: nonligated (NL); ligature only (LO); and ligature plus treatment with boric acid (BA) (3 mg/kg per day for 11 d). A 4/0 silk suture was placed in a subgingival position around the mandibular right first molars; after 11 d the rats were killed, and alveolar bone loss in the first molars was histometrically determined. Periodontal tissues were examined histopathologically to assess the differences among the study groups. RANKL and OPG were detected immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

Alveolar bone loss was significantly higher in the LO group than in the BA and NL groups (p < 0.05). The number of inflammatory infiltrate and osteoclasts in the LO group was significantly higher than that in the NL and BA groups (p < 0.05). The numbers of osteoblasts in LO and BA groups were significantly higher compared with NL group (p < 0.05). There were significantly more RANKL-positive cells in the LO group than in the BA and NL groups (p < 0.05). There was a higher number of OPG-positive cells in the BA group than in the LO and NL groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present study shows that systemic administration of boric acid may reduce alveolar bone loss by affecting the RANKL/OPG balance in periodontal disease in rats.

The effect of supplementation of calcium, vitamin D, boron, and increased fluoride intake on bone mechanical properties and metabolic hormones in rat

Evidence indicates that optimal nutrition plays a role in bone formation and maintenance. Besides major components of mineralization such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, other nutrients like boron and fluoride have beneficial role, too. In this study, 34 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control diet, fluoride, fluoride + boron, fluoride + calcium + vitamin D, and flouride + boron + calcium + vitamin D. Boron equal to 1.23 mg, calcium and vitamin D equal to 210 mg + 55 IU and fluoride equal to 0.7 mg/rat/day was added to their drinking water for 8 weeks. Plasma blood samples and bones were collected. Findings are evidence that fluoride + boron intake revealed significant positive effects on bone mechanical properties and bone metabolic hormones. These findings suggest that combined intake of these two elements has beneficial effects on bone stiffness and breaking strength comparing to even calcium + vitamin D supplementation. This evidence dealing with health problems related to bone and skeletal system in humans should justify further investigation of the role of boron and fluoride with other elements in relation to bone.

Dietary boron: progress in establishing essential roles in human physiology

This review summarizes the progress made in establishing essential roles for boron in human physiology and assesses that progress in view of criteria for essentiality of elements. The evidence to date suggests that humans and at least some higher animals may use boron to support normal biological functions. These include roles in calcium metabolism, bone growth and maintenance, insulin metabolism, and completion of the life cycle. The biochemical mechanisms responsible for these effects are poorly understood but the nature of boron biochemistry suggests further characterization of the cell signaling molecules capable of complexing with boron. Such characterization may provide insights into the biochemical function(s) of boron in humans.

Calcium fructoborate--potential anti-inflammatory agent

Calcium fructoborate is a boron-based nutritional supplement. Its chemical structure is similar to one of the natural forms of boron such as bis-manitol, bis-sorbitol, bis-fructose, and bis-sucrose borate complexes found in edible plants. In vitro studies revealed that calcium fructoborate is a superoxide ion scavenger and anti-inflammatory agent. It may influence macrophage production of inflammatory mediators, can be beneficial for the suppression of cytokine production, and inhibits progression of endotoxin-associated diseases, as well as the boric acid and other boron sources. The mechanisms by which calcium fructoborate exerts its beneficial anti-inflammatory effects are not entirely clear, but some of its molecular biological in vitro activities are understood: inhibition of the superoxide within the cell; inhibition of the interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and nitric oxide release in the culture media; and increase of the tumor necrosis factor-α production. Also, calcium fructoborate has no effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced cyclooxygenase-2 protein express. The studies on animals and humans with a dose range of 1-7 mg calcium fructoborate (0.025-0.175 mg elemental boron)/kg body weight/day exhibited a good anti-inflammatory activity, and it also seemed to have negligible adverse effect on humans.

Assessment of the potential of a boron-fructose additive in counteracting the toxic effect of Fusarium mycotoxins

Trichotecenes are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium sp., which may contaminate animal feeds and human food. A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of a fusarotoxin-contaminated diet, and to explore the counteracting potential of a calcium fructoborate (CFrB) additive on performance, typical health biochemistry parameters and immune response in weaned pigs. A naturally contaminated maize, containing low doses of deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, fumonisins and T-2/HT-2 toxins (1790, 20, 0·6 and 90 parts per billion), was included in a maize-soyabean meal diet, and given ad libitum to eight weaned piglets (two groups: four pigs/group) for a period of 24 d. CFrB was administered to one of the contaminated groups and to another four piglets as a daily supplement, following the manufacturer's recommendation. A decrease in performance was observed in contaminated animals at this concentration of feed toxins, which was ameliorated by the dietary CFrB supplementation. Fusarium toxins also altered the pig immune response by increasing (P < 0·05) the ex vivo peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation (111·7 % in comparison with control), the respiratory burst of porcine granulocytes (15·4 % for responsive cells v. 5·1 % for unstimulated cells and 70·95 v. 22·65 % for stimulated cells, respectively), the percentage of peripheral T, CD3(+), CD3(+)CD4(+) and CD3(+)CD8(+) subsets and the synthesis of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-8 (123·8, 217·1 and 255·1 %, respectively). The diet containing the CFrB additive reduced these exacerbated cellular immune responses induced by Fusarium toxins. However, consumption of CFrB did not counteract the effect of mycotoxins on biochemistry parameters, and increased plasma IgM and IgG of contaminated pigs.

Growing Evidence for Human Health Benefits of Boron

Growing evidence from a variety of experimental models shows that boron is a bioactive and beneficial (perhaps essential) element for humans. Reported beneficial actions of boron include arthritis alleviation or risk reduction, bone growth and maintenance, central nervous system function, cancer risk reduction, hormone facilitation, and immune response, inflammation, and oxidative stress modulation. The diverse effects of boron indicate that it influences the formation and/or activity of an entity that is involved in many biochemical processes. Formation of boroesters with the ribose moiety of compounds involved in numerous reactions, such as S-adenosylmethionine and oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) might be the reason for boron bioactivity. Both animal and human data suggest that boron intakes should be >1.0 mg/d. Many people consume less than this amount. Thus, a low boron intake should be considered a health concern, which can be prevented by diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and pulses.

Comparative effects of daily and weekly boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and proinflammatory cytokines

Boron possesses widespread properties in biochemistry and nutrition. Acute supplementation with 11.6 mg of boron resulted in a significant increase in plasma boron concentration. Given such a fast bioavailability, the objective was to determine whether acute (hourly or daily), and weekly supplementation could have any significant biological effects on the steroid hormones and further on some inflammatory biomarkers. Eight healthy male volunteers attended the laboratory on three occasions (days 0, 1 and 7). On the first day (day 0), a blood sample collection at 8.00 A.M was followed by ingestion of placebo with the breakfast. On the next day (supplementation-day 1), similar procedure was followed by ingestion of a capsule containing 10mg of boron. On both occasions blood was collected every 2h for the next 6h. Subjects were requested to consume a capsule of 10mg boron every day with their breakfast, and on the day 7, the blood collection was carried out at 8.00 A.M, again. Boron in plasma increased significantly following hours and weekly consumption. Six hours supplementation showed a significant decrease on sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), high sensitive CRP (hsCRP) and TNF-α level. After one week (in samples taken at 8.00 A.M, only), the mean plasma free testosterone increased and the mean plasma estradiol decreased significantly. Dihydrotestosterone, cortisol and vitamin D was elevated. Also, concentrations of all three inflammatory biomarkers decreased after supplementation. Of note, despite decreased proinflammatory cytokines, based on recent clinical data, this must be the first human study report to show an increase level of free testosterone after boron consumption.

Effects of dietary boron supplementation on some biochemical parameters, peripheral blood lymphocytes, splenic plasma cells and bone characteristics of broiler chicks given diets with adequate or inadequate cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) content

(1) The effects of 5 and 25 mg/kg boron supplementation of diets with inadequate (6.25 microg/kg) or adequate (50 microg/kg) cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) content on some biochemical parameters, tibia characteristics, peripheral blood lymphocyte and splenic plasma cell counts of broilers were investigated. (2) Supplementation of the diet with boron affected plasma concentrations of boron, iron, copper and zinc and also tibia boron, zinc and calcium concentrations but did not have any effect on tibia iron or copper concentrations or tibia ash and tibia weight values. (3) Boron supplementation caused significant increases in splenic plasma cell count but decreased the proximal and distal tibia growth plate widths. There was no effect of boron supplementation on peripheral blood alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE) content. Whole blood haematocrit and haemoglobin counts were significantly increased by boron supplementation but there were no effects on leucocyte ratios such as eosinophil, basophil, monocyte, lymphocyte and thrombocyte. (4) In general, the findings of the present study support the hypothesis that boron has an important biological role that affects the mineral metabolism of animals by influencing both biochemical and haematological mechanisms.

In vitro effects of calcium fructoborate upon production of inflammatory mediators by LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

The present study is supported by our previous findings suggesting that calcium fructoborate (CF) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Thus, we investigated the effects of CF on a model for studying inflammatory disorders in vitro represented by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. This investigation was performed by analyzing the levels of some mediators released during the inflammatory process: cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukins IL-1beta and IL-6 as well as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the main enzyme responsible for endotoxin/LPS-induced prostaglandin synthesis by macrophages. We also measured production of nitric oxide (NO) that plays an important role in the cytotoxicity activity of macrophages towards microbial pathogens. After CF treatment of LPS-stimulated macrophages we found an up-regulation of TNF-alpha protein level in culture medium, no significant changes in the level of COX-2 protein expression and a decrease in NO production as well as in IL-1beta and IL-6 release. Collectively, this series of experiments indicate that CF affect macrophage production of inflammatory mediators. However, further research is required in order to establish whether CF treatment can be beneficial in suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production and against progression of endotoxin-related diseases.

Effect of dietary boron on immune function in growing beef steers

Thirty-six Angus and Angus x Simmental cross steers (initial BW 269.5 +/- 22.3 kg) were used to determine the effects of dietary boron (B) on performance and immune function. Steers were fed on one of the three dietary treatments: (i) control (no supplemental B; 7.2 mg B/kg DM), (ii) 5 mg supplemental B/kg DM and (iii) 50 mg supplemental B/kg DM, from sodium borate for 78 days. Supplementation of dietary B had no effect on body weight (BW) gain, feed intake or gain:feed during the study. Jugular blood samples were collected prior to feeding on days 28, 63 and 77 for plasma-B analysis. Supplementation of dietary B increased (p < 0.001) plasma B-concentration in a dose-responsive manner. Furthermore, plasma B-concentration was correlated (p < 0.001; R(2) = 0. 95) to daily B-intake (mg B/day). Jugular blood was also collected, from an equal number of steers from each treatment, on day 42 or 44 for determination of in vitro production of interferon-gamma and tumour necrosis factor-alpha from isolated monocytes and assessment of lymphocyte proliferation. Dietary B did not affect T- or B-lymphocyte proliferation or in vitro cytokine production from monocytes. On day 49 of the study, the humoral immune response was assessed by i.m. injection of a 25% pig red blood cell (PRBC) solution for determination of anti-PRBC IgG and IgM titre responses. Boron-supplemented steers had greater (p = 0.035) anti-PRBC IgG titres than controls on day 7 but not on day 14 or 21 post-injection. Anti-PRBC IgM titres did not differ throughout the sampling period. Results from this study indicate that supplemental B had minimal effects on immune function and did not affect performance of growing steers.

Is boron nutritionally relevant?

Evidence from numerous laboratories using a variety of experimental models, including humans, shows that boron is a bioactive beneficial element. Much evidence has come from studies that did not require nutritional or environmental stressors or fastidious methods in diet preparation or environmental control. The evidence includes deprivation studies showing that boron is necessary for some higher animals to complete the life cycle, and that realistic low boron intakes result in impaired bone health, brain function, and immune response. Thus, low boron intake is a relevant nutritional concern, which diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and pulses can prevent.

Dietary boron and hormone replacement therapy as risk factors for lung cancer in women

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may reduce lung cancer risk. Dietary boron may have actions similar to those of HRT; however, no previous study has reported the associations between dietary boron intake and lung cancer risk or the joint effects of boron intake and HRT use on lung cancer risk. The authors examined the associations between boron intake and the joint effects of boron intake and HRT on lung cancer risk in women. In an ongoing case-control study in Houston, Texas (July 1995 through April 2005, end date for this analysis), 763 women were diagnosed with lung cancer, and 838 were matched healthy controls with data on both diet and HRT. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the associations between dietary boron and HRT with lung cancer risk. After adjustment for potential confounders, the odds ratios for lung cancer with decreasing quartiles of dietary boron intake were 1.0, 1.39 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02, 1.90), 1.64 (95% CI: 1.20, 2.24), and 1.95 (95% CI: 1.42, 2.68) mg/day, respectively, for all women (p(trend) < 0.0001). In joint-effects analyses, compared with women with high dietary boron intake who used HRT, the odds ratio for lung cancer for low dietary boron intake and no HRT use was 2.07 (95% CI: 1.53, 2.81). Boron intake was inversely associated with lung cancer in women, whereas women who consumed low boron and did not use HRT were at substantial increased odds.

Boric acid inhibits LPS-induced TNF-alpha formation through a thiol-dependent mechanism in THP-1 cells

Oxidative stress plays an important role during inflammatory diseases and antioxidant administration to diminish oxidative stress may arrest inflammatory processes. Boron has been implicated to modulate certain inflammatory mediators and regulate inflammatory processes. Here we investigated the role of the tripeptide glutathione (GSH) in modulating the effects of boric acid (BA) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) formation in THP-1 monocytes. Interestingly, we found that BA had no significant effects on both TNF-alpha production and intracellular GSH contents, whereas it could inhibit LPS-induced TNF-alpha formation and ameliorated the d,l-buthionine-S,R-sulfoximine (BSO)-induced GSH depletion. Twenty-four hour incubation with BSO induced a decrease of the intracellular GSH and an increase of TNF-alpha. Treatment with N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) did not significantly increase intracellular content of GSH but significantly reduced the secretion of TNF-alpha. BSO-pretreatment for 24h enhanced the LPS-induced secretion and mRNA expression of TNF-alpha further. BA inhibited LPS-stimulated TNF-alpha formation was also seen after GSH depletion by BSO. These results indicate that BA may have anti-inflammatory effect in the LPS-stimulated inflammation and the effect of BA on TNF-alpha secretion may be induced via a thiol-dependent mechanism.

Low dietary boron reduces parasite (nematoda) survival and alters cytokine profiles but the infection modifies liver minerals in mice

Although boron (B) is an essential trace mineral, any interactions that it may have with gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infections are unknown. This study explored whether low dietary B would: 1) alter survival or reproduction of Heligmosomoides bakeri (Nematoda); 2) modify the resulting cytokine response to this parasitic infection; or 3) influence liver mineral concentrations in the infected host. Balb/c mice were fed either a low-B (0.2 microg B/g), marginal (2.0 microg B/g), or control (12.0 microg B/g) diet. Diets commenced 3 wk before a primary infection and were fed for 4 wk (primary infection protocol) and 8-9 wk (challenge infection protocol). Mice were killed 6 d post-primary infection (d6ppi), or dewormed then reinfected (challenge infection protocol) and killed 14 or 21 d post-challenge infection (d14pci or d21pci, respectively). Low and marginal dietary B intakes impaired survival of the parasite, reduced intestinal inflammation, and modulated a broad range of cytokines and chemokines despite similar liver B concentrations in diet groups. Compared with control mice, cytokine production was lower following low and marginal B intakes at d6ppi but was elevated at d21pci. Serum alkaline phosphatase was higher at d6ppi than at d14pci and d21pci. Compared with d14pci, liver zinc, iron, and B concentrations were reduced at d21pci when worm numbers were also lower, whereas concentrations of sodium, potassium, molybdenum, chromium, and sulfur were higher. This study shows that parasite survival and cytokine and inflammatory responses are modified by dietary B intake but indicates that a GI nematode infection alters liver mineral concentrations.