Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial DNA Damage and Their Role in Age-Related Vascular Dysfunction

5(S)-5-Carboxystrictosidine from the Root of Mappianthus iodoides Ameliorates H2O2-induced Apoptosis in H9c2 Cardiomyocytes via PI3K/AKT and ERK Pathways

5(S)-5-carboxystrictosidine (5-CS) is a compound found in the root of Mappianthus iodoides, a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of coronary artery disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of 5-CS against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes and the underlying mechanisms. 5-CS pretreatment significantly protected against H2O2-induced cell death, LDH leakage, and malondialdehyde (MDA) production, which are indicators for oxidative stress injury. 5-CS also enhanced the activity of SOD and CAT. In addition, 5-CS pretreatment significantly inhibited H2O2-induced apoptosis, as determined by flow cytometer, suppressed the activity of caspase-3 and caspase-9, and attenuated the activation of cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-9. 5-CS also increased Akt and ERK activation altered by H2O2 using Western blot analysis. The PI3K-specific inhibitor LY294002 abolished 5-CS-induced Akt activation. The ERK-specific inhibitor PD98059 abolished 5-CS-induced ERK activation. Both LY294002 and PD98059 attenuated the protective effect of 5-CS on H9c2 cardiomyocytes against H2O2-induced apoptosis and cell death. Taken together, these results demonstrate that 5-CS prevents H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury in H9c2 cells by enhancing the activity of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes, inhibiting apoptosis, and modulating PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling pathways.

Nanophotonic waveguide-based sensing of circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA: implications for personalized medicine

Circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (ccf-mtDNA) has emerged as a promising biomarker, with potential implications for disease diagnosis. Changes in mtDNA, such as deletions, mutations or variations in the number of copies, have been associated with mitochondrial disorders, heart diseases, cancer and age-related non-communicable diseases. Previous methods, such as polymerase chain reaction-based approaches, next-generation sequencing and imaging-based techniques, have shown improved accuracy in identifying rare mtDNA variants or mutations, but they have limitations. This article explains the basic principles and benefits of using planar optical waveguide-based detection devices, which represent an advanced approach in the field of sensing.

Regulatory roles of microRNAs in modulating mitochondrial dynamics, amyloid beta fibrillation, microglial activation, and cholinergic signaling: Implications for alzheimer's disease pathogenesis

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) remains a formidable challenge due to its complex pathology, notably involving mitochondrial dysfunction and dysregulated microRNA (miRNA) signaling. This study delves into the underexplored realm of miRNAs' impact on mitochondrial dynamics and their interplay with amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation and tau pathology in AD. Addressing identified gaps, our research utilizes advanced molecular techniques and AD models, alongside patient miRNA profiles, to uncover miRNAs pivotal in mitochondrial regulation. We illuminate novel miRNAs influencing mitochondrial dynamics, Aβ, and tau, offering insights into their mechanistic roles in AD progression. Our findings not only enhance understanding of AD's molecular underpinnings but also spotlight miRNAs as promising therapeutic targets. By elucidating miRNAs' roles in mitochondrial dysfunction and their interactions with hallmark AD pathologies, our work proposes innovative strategies for AD therapy, aiming to mitigate disease progression through targeted miRNA modulation. This contribution marks a significant step toward novel AD treatments, emphasizing the potential of miRNAs in addressing this complex disease.

Molecular and cellular consequences of mitochondrial DNA double-stranded breaks

Mitochondria are subcellular organelles essential for life. Beyond their role in producing energy, mitochondria govern various physiological mechanisms, encompassing energy generation, metabolic processes, apoptotic events, and immune responses. Mitochondria also contain genetic material that is susceptible to various forms of damage. Mitochondrial double-stranded breaks (DSB) are toxic lesions that the nucleus repairs promptly. Nevertheless, the significance of DSB repair in mammalian mitochondria is controversial. This review presents an updated view of the available research on the consequences of mitochondrial DNA DSB from the molecular to the cellular level. We discuss the crucial function of mitochondrial DNA damage in regulating processes such as senescence, integrated stress response, and innate immunity. Lastly, we discuss the potential role of mitochondrial DNA DSB in mediating the cellular consequences of ionizing radiations, the standard of care in treating solid tumors.

Modulation of the Circadian Rhythm and Oxidative Stress as Molecular Targets to Improve Vascular Dementia: A Pharmacological Perspective

The circadian rhythms generated by the master biological clock located in the brain's hypothalamus influence central physiological processes. At the molecular level, a core set of clock genes interact to form transcription-translation feedback loops that provide the molecular basis of the circadian rhythm. In animal models of disease, a desynchronization of clock genes in peripheral tissues with the central master clock has been detected. Interestingly, patients with vascular dementia have sleep disorders and irregular sleep patterns. These alterations in circadian rhythms impact hormonal levels, cardiovascular health (including blood pressure regulation and blood vessel function), and the pattern of expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, oxidative stress in vascular dementia can arise from ischemia-reperfusion injury, amyloid-beta production, the abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein, and alterations in neurotransmitters, among others. Several signaling pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of vascular dementia. While the precise mechanisms linking circadian rhythms and vascular dementia are still being studied, there is evidence to suggest that maintaining healthy sleep patterns and supporting proper circadian rhythm function may be important for reducing the risk of vascular dementia. Here, we reviewed the main mechanisms of action of molecular targets related to the circadian cycle and oxidative stress in vascular dementia.

Vascular Aging and Atherosclerosis: A Perspective on Aging

Vascular aging (VA) is recognized as a pivotal factor in the development and progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Although various epidemiological and clinical research has demonstrated an intimate connection between aging and AS, the candidate mechanisms still require thorough examination. This review adopts an aging-centric perspective to deepen the comprehension of the intricate relationship between biological aging, vascular cell senescence, and AS. Various aging-related physiological factors influence the physical system's reactions, including oxygen radicals, inflammation, lipids, angiotensin II, mechanical forces, glucose levels, and insulin resistance. These factors cause endothelial dysfunction, barrier damage, sclerosis, and inflammation for VA and promote AS via distinct or shared pathways. Furthermore, the increase of senescent cells inside the vascular tissues, caused by genetic damage, dysregulation, secretome changes, and epigenetic modifications, might be the primary cause of VA.

New Insights into Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation are two important and well-studied pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Due to elevated oxygen consumption, the high presence of easily oxidizable polyunsaturated fatty acids and the weak antioxidant defenses, the brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative injury. Uncertainty exists over whether these deficits contribute to the development of NDDs or are solely a consequence of neuronal degeneration. Furthermore, these two pathological hallmarks are linked, and it is known that OS can affect the inflammatory response. In this review, we will overview the last findings about these two pathways in the principal NDDs. Moreover, we will focus more in depth on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to understand how anti-inflammatory and antioxidants drugs have been used for the treatment of this still incurable motor neuron (MN) disease. Finally, we will analyze the principal past and actual clinical trials and the future perspectives in the study of these two pathological mechanisms.

Extracellular Delivery of Functional Mitochondria Rescues the Dysfunction of CD4+ T Cells in Aging

Mitochondrial dysfunction alters cellular metabolism, increases tissue oxidative stress, and may be principal to the dysregulated signaling and function of CD4+ T lymphocytes in the elderly. In this proof of principle study, it is investigated whether the transfer of functional mitochondria into CD4+ T cells that are isolated from old mice (aged CD4+ T cells), can abrogate aging-associated mitochondrial dysfunction, and improve the aged CD4+ T cell functionality. The results show that the delivery of exogenous mitochondria to aged non-activated CD4+ T cells led to significant mitochondrial proteome alterations highlighted by improved aerobic metabolism and decreased cellular mitoROS. Additionally, mito-transferred aged CD4+ T cells showed improvements in activation-induced TCR-signaling kinetics displaying markers of activation (CD25), increased IL-2 production, enhanced proliferation ex vivo. Importantly, immune deficient mouse models (RAG-KO) showed that adoptive transfer of mito-transferred naive aged CD4+ T cells, protected recipient mice from influenza A and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections. These findings support mitochondria as targets of therapeutic intervention in aging.

Exploring the Efficient Natural Products for the Therapy of Parkinson's Disease via Drosophila Melanogaster (Fruit Fly) Models

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, partly attributed to mutations, environmental toxins, oxidative stress, abnormal protein aggregation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. However, the precise pathogenesis of PD and its treatment strategy still require investigation. Fortunately, natural products have demonstrated potential as therapeutic agents for alleviating PD symptoms due to their neuroprotective properties. To identify promising lead compounds from herbal medicines' natural products for PD management and understand their modes of action, suitable animal models are necessary. Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) serves as an essential model for studying genetic and cellular pathways in complex biological processes. Diverse Drosophila PD models have been extensively utilized in PD research, particularly for discovering neuroprotective natural products. This review emphasizes the research progress of natural products in PD using the fruit fly PD model, offering valuable insights into utilizing invertebrate models for developing novel anti-PD drugs.

Calcitriol reverses age-related hypertension via downregulating renal AP1/AT1R pathway through regulating mitochondrial function

BACKGROUND

The vitamin D level in the blood is associated with the incidence of hypertension. The present study investigated whether or not calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D, reverses age-related hypertension.

METHODS

Young (3-month-old) and aged (12-month-old) C57BL/6 male mice were administered with or without calcitriol at 150 ng/kg per day by oral gavage for 8 weeks. Blood pressure was measured by tail-cuff plethysmography and telemetry, and superoxide production in renal tissue was assessed by fluorescence imaging, and the protein expression of AP1/AT1R signaling pathway was examined by Western blot.

RESULTS

We showed that 24-hour renal sodium excretion was impaired and blood pressure was increased in aged mice, which was related to the enhancement of renal AT1R expression and function. In addition, the expression of transcription factor AP1 (a dimer of c-Fos and c-Jun) and the binding of AP1 to the AT1R promoter region was significantly enhanced, accompanied by decreased nuclear translocation of Nrf2, abnormal mitochondrial function including decreased ATP production, NAD+/NADH ratio and mtDNA copy numbers, and increased reactive oxygen species. Calcitriol increased 24-hour urinary sodium excretion and reduced blood pressure in aged mice. Mechanically, calcitriol increased the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, improved mitochondrial function, reduced AP1 binding ability to AT1R promoter, which reversed enhanced AT1R expression and function, and lowered blood pressure in aged mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that calcitriol reversed age-related hypertension via downregulating renal AP1/AT1R pathway through regulating mitochondrial function. Thus, calcitriol may be a valuable therapeutic strategy for age-related hypertension.

Pharmacological modulation of vascular ageing: A review from VascAgeNet

Vascular ageing, characterized by structural and functional changes in blood vessels of which arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction are key components, is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and other age-related diseases. As the global population continues to age, understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing effective therapeutic interventions to mitigate vascular ageing becomes crucial for improving cardiovascular health outcomes. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the current knowledge on pharmacological modulation of vascular ageing, highlighting key strategies and promising therapeutic targets. Several molecular pathways have been identified as central players in vascular ageing, including oxidative stress and inflammation, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, cellular senescence, macroautophagy, extracellular matrix remodelling, calcification, and gasotransmitter-related signalling. Pharmacological and dietary interventions targeting these pathways have shown potential in ameliorating age-related vascular changes. Nevertheless, the development and application of drugs targeting vascular ageing is complicated by various inherent challenges and limitations, such as certain preclinical methodological considerations, interactions with exercise training and sex/gender-related differences, which should be taken into account. Overall, pharmacological modulation of endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness as hallmarks of vascular ageing, holds great promise for improving cardiovascular health in the ageing population. Nonetheless, further research is needed to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize the efficacy and safety of these interventions for clinical translation.

Mitochondrial DNA Sensing Pathogen Recognition Receptors in Systemic Sclerosis Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: A Review

Purpose of the review

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a condition of dermal and visceral scar formation characterized by immune dysregulation and inflammatory fibrosis. Approximately 90% of SSc patients develop interstitial lung disease (ILD), and it is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Further understanding of immune-mediated fibroproliferative mechanisms has the potential to catalyze novel treatment approaches in this difficult to treat disease.

Recent findings

Recent advances have demonstrated the critical role of aberrant innate immune activation mediated by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) through interactions with toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and cytosolic cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS).

Summary

In this review, we will discuss how the nature of the mtDNA, whether oxidized or mutated, and its mechanism of release, either intracellularly or extracellularly, can amplify fibrogenesis by activating TLR9 and cGAS, and the novel insights gained by interrogating these signaling pathways. Because the scope of this review is intended to generate hypotheses for future research, we conclude our discussion with several important unanswered questions.

Oxidative stress in the eye and its role in the pathophysiology of ocular diseases

Oxidative stress occurs through an imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant defense mechanisms of cells. The eye is particularly exposed to oxidative stress because of its permanent exposure to light and due to several structures having high metabolic activities. The anterior part of the eye is highly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and possesses a complex antioxidant defense system to protect the retina from UV radiation. The posterior part of the eye exhibits high metabolic rates and oxygen consumption leading subsequently to a high production rate of ROS. Furthermore, inflammation, aging, genetic factors, and environmental pollution, are all elements promoting ROS generation and impairing antioxidant defense mechanisms and thereby representing risk factors leading to oxidative stress. An abnormal redox status was shown to be involved in the pathophysiology of various ocular diseases in the anterior and posterior segment of the eye. In this review, we aim to summarize the mechanisms of oxidative stress in ocular diseases to provide an updated understanding on the pathogenesis of common diseases affecting the ocular surface, the lens, the retina, and the optic nerve. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic approaches aimed at reducing oxidative stress in this context.

The link between obesity and aging - insights into cardiac energy metabolism

Obesity and aging are well-established risk factors for a range of diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Given the escalating prevalence of obesity, the aging population, and the subsequent increase in cardiovascular diseases, it is crucial to investigate the underlying mechanisms involved. Both aging and obesity have profound effects on the energy metabolism through various mechanisms, including metabolic inflexibility, altered substrate utilization for energy production, deregulated nutrient sensing, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we aim to present and discuss the hypothesis that obesity, due to its similarity in changes observed in the aging heart, may accelerate the process of cardiac aging and exacerbate the clinical outcomes of elderly individuals with obesity.

Cornerstone Cellular Pathways for Metabolic Disorders and Diabetes Mellitus: Non-Coding RNAs, Wnt Signaling, and AMPK

Metabolic disorders and diabetes (DM) impact more than five hundred million individuals throughout the world and are insidious in onset, chronic in nature, and yield significant disability and death. Current therapies that address nutritional status, weight management, and pharmacological options may delay disability but cannot alter disease course or functional organ loss, such as dementia and degeneration of systemic bodily functions. Underlying these challenges are the onset of aging disorders associated with increased lifespan, telomere dysfunction, and oxidative stress generation that lead to multi-system dysfunction. These significant hurdles point to the urgent need to address underlying disease mechanisms with innovative applications. New treatment strategies involve non-coding RNA pathways with microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular ribonucleic acids (circRNAs), Wnt signaling, and Wnt1 inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) that are dependent upon programmed cell death pathways, cellular metabolic pathways with AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and nicotinamide, and growth factor applications. Non-coding RNAs, Wnt signaling, and AMPK are cornerstone mechanisms for overseeing complex metabolic pathways that offer innovative treatment avenues for metabolic disease and DM but will necessitate continued appreciation of the ability of each of these cellular mechanisms to independently and in unison influence clinical outcome.

Caloric Restriction Mitigates Kidney Fibrosis in an Aged and Obese Rat Model

Caloric restriction is an effective intervention to protract healthspan and lifespan in several animal models from yeast to primates, including humans. Caloric restriction has been found to induce cardiometabolic adaptations associated with improved health and to delay the onset and progression of kidney disease in different species, particularly in rodent models. In both aging and obesity, fibrosis is a hallmark of kidney disease, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition is a key process that leads to fibrosis and renal dysfunction during aging. In this study, we used an aged and obese rat model to evaluate the effect of long-term (6 months) caloric restriction (-40%) on renal damage both from a structural and functional point of view. Renal interstitial fibrosis was analyzed by histological techniques, whereas effects on mesenchymal (N-cadherin, Vimentin, Desmin and α-SMA), antioxidant (SOD1, SOD2, Catalase and GSTP1) inflammatory (YM1 and iNOS) markers and apoptotic/cell cycle (BAX, BCL2, pJNK, Caspase 3 and p27) pathways were investigated using Western blot analysis. Our results clearly showed that caloric restriction promotes cell cycle division and reduces apoptotic injury and fibrosis phenotype through inflammation attenuation and leukocyte infiltration. In conclusion, we highlight the beneficial effects of caloric restriction to preserve elderly kidney function.

Impact of air pollution on cardiovascular aging

The world population is aging rapidly, and by some estimates, the number of people older than 60 will double in the next 30 years. With the increase in life expectancy, adverse effects of environmental exposures start playing a more prominent role in human health. Air pollution is now widely considered the most detrimental of all environmental risk factors, with some studies estimating that almost 20% of all deaths globally could be attributed to poor air quality. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide and will continue to account for the most significant percentage of non-communicable disease burden. Cardiovascular aging with defined pathomechanisms is a major trigger of cardiovascular disease in old age. Effects of environmental risk factors on cardiovascular aging should be considered in order to increase the health span and reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in older populations. In this review, we explore the effects of air pollution on cardiovascular aging, from the molecular mechanisms to cardiovascular manifestations of aging and, finally, the age-related cardiovascular outcomes. We also explore the distinction between the effects of air pollution on healthy aging and disease progression. Future efforts should focus on extending the health span rather than the lifespan.

Energizing Mitochondria to Prevent Mobility Loss in Aging: Rationale and Hypotheses

Based on recent studies from our group and others, we hypothesize that mitochondrial dysfunction during aging may be the root cause of mobility decline through deficits in the musculoskeletal and central nervous systems. Mitochondrial dysfunction could be a therapeutic target to prevent mobility decline in aging.

Atherosclerosis treatment with nanoagent: potential targets, stimulus signals and drug delivery mechanisms

Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the first killer of human health, and it caused up at least 31% of global deaths. Atherosclerosis is one of the main reasons caused CVDs. Oral drug therapy with statins and other lipid-regulating drugs is the conventional treatment strategies for atherosclerosis. However, conventional therapeutic strategies are constrained by low drug utilization and non-target organ injury problems. Micro-nano materials, including particles, liposomes, micelles and bubbles, have been developed as the revolutionized tools for CVDs detection and drug delivery, specifically atherosclerotic targeting treatment. Furthermore, the micro-nano materials also could be designed to intelligently and responsive targeting drug delivering, and then become a promising tool to achieve atherosclerosis precision treatment. This work reviewed the advances in atherosclerosis nanotherapy, including the materials carriers, target sites, responsive model and treatment results. These nanoagents precisely delivery the therapeutic agents to the target atherosclerosis sites, and intelligent and precise release of drugs, which could minimize the potential adverse effects and be more effective in atherosclerosis lesion.

Cardiovascular disease treatment using traditional Chinese medicine：Mitochondria as the Achilles' heel

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), involving the pathological alteration of the heart or blood vessels, is one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide, with an estimated 18.6 million deaths per year. CVDs are caused by a variety of risk factors, including inflammation, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and increased oxidative stress. Mitochondria, the hub of ATP production and the main generator of reactive oxygen species (ROS), are linked to multiple cellular signaling pathways that regulate the progression of CVD and therefore are recognized as an essential target for CVD management. Initial treatment of CVD generally focuses on diet and lifestyle interventions; proper drugs or surgery can prolong or save the patient's life. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a holistic medical care system with an over 2500-year history, has been proven to be efficient in curing CVD and other illnesses, with a strengthening effect on the body. However, the mechanisms underlying TCM alleviation of CVD remain elusive. Recent studies have recognized that TCM can alleviate cardiovascular disease by manipulating the quality and function of mitochondria. This review systematically summarizes the association of mitochondria with cardiovascular risk factors, and the relationships between mitochondrial dysfunction and CVD progression. We will investigate the research progress of managing cardiovascular disease by TCM and cover widely used TCMs that target mitochondria for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Building the case for mitochondrial transplantation as an anti-aging cardiovascular therapy

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common denominator in both biological aging and cardiovascular disease (CVD) pathology. Understanding the protagonist role of mitochondria in the respective and independent progressions of CVD and biological aging will unravel the synergistic relationship between biological aging and CVD. Moreover, the successful development and implementation of therapies that can simultaneously benefit mitochondria of multiple cell types, will be transformational in curtailing pathologies and mortality in the elderly, including CVD. Several works have compared the status of mitochondria in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in CVD dependent context. However, fewer studies have cataloged the aging-associated changes in vascular mitochondria, independent of CVD. This mini review will focus on the present evidence related to mitochondrial dysfunction in vascular aging independent of CVD. Additionally, we discuss the feasibility of restoring mitochondrial function in the aged cardiovascular system through mitochondrial transfer.

Targeting Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress as a Strategy to Treat Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Mitochondria are one of the organelles undergoing rapid alteration during the senescence process. Senescent cells show an increase in mitochondrial size, which is attributed to the accumulation of defective mitochondria, which causes mitochondrial oxidative stress. Defective mitochondria are also targets of mitochondrial oxidative stress, and the vicious cycle between defective mitochondria and mitochondrial oxidative stress contributes to the onset and development of aging and age-related diseases. Based on the findings, strategies to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress have been suggested for the effective treatment of aging and age-related diseases. In this article, we discuss mitochondrial alterations and the consequent increase in mitochondrial oxidative stress. Then, the causal role of mitochondrial oxidative stress on aging is investigated by examining how aging and age-related diseases are exacerbated by induced stress. Furthermore, we assess the importance of targeting mitochondrial oxidative stress for the regulation of aging and suggest different therapeutic strategies to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress. Therefore, this review will not only shed light on a new perspective on the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in aging but also provide effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of aging and age-related diseases through the regulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress.

Salat dhuha effect on oxidative stress in elderly women: A randomized controlled trial

Background

The aging process and a chronic sedentary lifestyle in the elderly as a result of physical restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, induces oxidative stress through oxygen supply and antioxidant activity imbalance which in turn induce degenerative diseases. Salat dhuha as a prayer and mind-body medicine which is practiced by the Muslim community can hopefully be a solution to decrease oxidative stress in the elderly.

Objective

To evaluate the acute physiological effects of salat dhuha on Glutathione Peroxidase activity (GPx) as an antioxidant and Malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidant in healthy elderly Muslim women population who have done salat dhuha regularly.

Method

A randomized controlled study was done on elderly women (aged 60-74 years old) who are treated in the North Sumatra Government's Nursing Home in Binjai and who routinely do 2 rakaat of salat dhuha every day. Several physical, clinical, and blood examinations were done pre and post-intervention. 101 elderly Muslim women in the nursing home were selected, 26 met the study criteria and were included in the study. The volunteers were randomized into 2 groups using lottery papers, the "2-rakaat salat dhuha group" (n = 13) and the "8-rakaat salat dhuha group" (n = 13). All volunteers did salat dhuha for at least 5 days per week for 6 weeks.

Result

24 elderly women completed the study, and one volunteer from each group dropped out. The characteristics of participants from both groups were homogenous. Results of the t-independent analysis showed that MDA concentrations in both groups in the pre and post-test were not significantly different (p > 0,05). Mann Whitney analysis showed that GPx on both groups in the pre and post-test were not significantly different (p > 0,05). Paired sample t-test analysis on the MDA concentrations pre and post-test in the 8-rakaat group showed a significant difference in MDA levels (p < 0,05). The 8-rakaat salat dhuha group showed that GPx activity increases as much as 8,9% and MDA levels decrease as much as 48,35 % after 6 weeks.

Conclusion

Salat dhuha promotes redox homeostasis and has the potential to prevent oxidative stress in elderly women.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Increased DNA Damage in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA-SMC)

There is increasing evidence for enhanced oxidative stress in the vascular wall of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Mitochondrial damage and dysfunction are hypothesized to be actors in altered production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. However, the role of mitochondria and oxidative stress in vascular remodelling and progression of AAA remains uncertain. We here addressed whether mitochondrial dysfunction is persistently increased in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) isolated from AAA compared to healthy VSMC. AAA-derived VSMC cultures (AAA-SMC, n = 10) and normal VSMC cultures derived from healthy donors (n = 7) were grown in vitro and analysed for four parameters, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction: (i) mitochondrial content and morphology, (ii) ROS production and antioxidative response, (iii) NADP+/NADPH content and ratio, and (iv) DNA damage, in the presence or absence of angiotensin II (AngII). AAA-SMC displayed increased mitochondrial circularity (rounded shape), reduced mitochondrial area, and reduced perimeter, indicating increased fragmentation and dysfunction compared to healthy controls. This was accompanied by significantly increased O₂ ^- production, reduced NADP+/NADPH levels, a lower antioxidative response (indicated by antioxidative response element- (ARE-) driven luciferase reporter assays), more DNA damage (determined by percentage of γ-H2A.X-positive nuclei), and earlier growth arrest in AAA-SMC. Our data suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are persistently increased in AAA-SMC, emphasizing their implication in the pathophysiology of AAA.

Potential Biological Mediators of Myocardial and Vascular Complications of Air Pollution-A State-of-the-Art Review

Ambient air pollution is recognised globally as a significant contributor to the burden of cardiovascular diseases. The evidence from both human and animal studies supporting the cardiovascular impact of exposure to air pollution has grown substantially, implicating numerous pathophysiological pathways and related signalling mediators. In this review, we summarise the list of activated mediators for each pathway that lead to myocardial and vascular injury in response to air pollutants. We performed a systematic search of multiple databases, including articles between 1990 and Jan 2022, summarising the evidence for activated pathways in response to each significant air pollutant. Particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM_2.5) was the most studied pollutant, followed by particulate matter between 2.5 μm-10 μm (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and ozone (O₃). Key pathogenic pathways that emerged included activation of systemic and local inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and autonomic dysfunction. We looked at how potential mediators of each of these pathways were linked to both cardiovascular disease and air pollution and included the overlapping mediators. This review illustrates the complex relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular diseases, and discusses challenges in moving beyond associations, towards understanding causal contributions of specific pathways and markers that may inform us regarding an individual's exposure, response, and likely risk.

Beyond its Psychiatric Use: The Benefits of Low-dose Lithium Supplementation

Lithium is most well-known for its mood-stabilizing effects in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Due to its narrow therapeutic window (0.5-1.2 mM serum concentration), there is a stigma associated with lithium treatment and the adverse effects that can occur at therapeutic doses. However, several studies have indicated that doses of lithium under the predetermined therapeutic dose used in bipolar disorder treatment may have beneficial effects not only in the brain but across the body. Currently, literature shows that low-dose lithium (≤0.5 mM) may be beneficial for cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, and cognitive function, as well as inflammatory and antioxidant processes of the aging body. There is also some evidence of low-dose lithium exerting a similar and sometimes synergistic effect on these systems. This review summarizes these findings with a focus on low-dose lithium's potential benefits on the aging process and age-related diseases of these systems, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, obesity and type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and the chronic low-grade inflammatory state known as inflammaging. Although lithium's actions have been widely studied in the brain, the study of the potential benefits of lithium, particularly at a low dose, is still relatively novel. Therefore, this review aims to provide possible mechanistic insights for future research in this field.

Lung mitochondrial DNA copy number, inflammatory biomarkers, gene transcription and gene methylation in vapers and smokers

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtCN) maintains cellular function and homeostasis, and is linked to nuclear DNA methylation and gene expression. Increased mtCN in the blood is associated with smoking and respiratory disease, but has received little attention for target organ effects for smoking or electronic cigarette (EC) use.

METHODS

Bronchoscopy biospecimens from healthy EC users, smokers (SM), and never-smokers (NS) were assessed for associations of mtCN with mtDNA point mutations, immune responses, nuclear DNA methylation and gene expression using linear regression. Ingenuity pathway analysis was used for enriched pathways. GEO and TCGA respiratory disease datasets were used to explore the involvement of mtCN-associated signatures.

FINDINGS

mtCN was higher in SM than NS, but EC was not statistically different from either. Overall there was a negative association of mtCN with a point mutation in the D-loop but no difference within groups. Positive associations of mtCN with IL-2 and IL-4 were found in EC only. mtCN was significantly associated with 71,487 CpGs and 321 transcripts. 263 CpGs were correlated with nearby transcripts for genes enriched in the immune system. EC-specific mtCN-associated-CpGs and genes were differentially expressed in respiratory diseases compared to controls, including genes involved in cellular movement, inflammation, metabolism, and airway hyperresponsiveness.

INTERPRETATION

Smoking may elicit a lung toxic effect through mtCN. While the impact of EC is less clear, EC-specific associations of mtCN with nuclear biomarkers suggest exposure may not be harmless. Further research is needed to understand the role of smoking and EC-related mtCN on lung disease risks.

FUNDING

The National Cancer Institute, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the Food and Drug Administration Center for Tobacco Products, the National Center For Advancing Translational Sciences, and Pelotonia Intramural Research Funds.

Mitochondrial dysfunctions elicited by solid waste leachates provide insights into mechanisms of leachates induced cell death and pathophysiological disorders

Emissions (mainly leachates and landfill gases) from solid waste facilities are laden with mixtures of dangerous xenobiotics implicated with significant increase in various pathophysiological disorders including cancer, and eventual mortality of exposed wildlife and humans. However, the molecular mechanisms of solid waste leachates induce pathophysiological disorders and cell death are still largely unknown. Although, evolving evidence implicated generation of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress as the possible mechanism. Recent scientific reports are linking reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunctions as the player mechanism in pathophysiological disorder and apoptosis induced by xenobiotics in solid waste leachates. This systematic review presents an explicit discussion of recent scientific findings on the structural and functional alterations in mitochondria induced by solid waste leachates as the molecular mechanisms plausibly responsible for the pathophysiological disorders, cancer and cell death reported in landfill toxicology and epidemiological studies. This review aims to increase scientific understanding on solid waste leachate induced mitochondria dysfunctions as the key player in molecular mechanisms of solid waste induced toxicity. The findings in this review were mainly from using primary cells, cell lines, Drosophila and fish. Whether the findings will similarly be observed in mammalian test systems in vivo and particularly in exposed humans, remained to be investigated. Improvement in technological advancements, enforcement of legislation and regulations, and creation of sophisticated health surveillance against exposure to solid waste leachates, will expectedly mitigate human exposure to solid waste emissions and contamination of the environment.

Aging biomarkers: Potential mediators of association between long-term ozone exposure and risk of atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Long-term exposure to ambient ozone links to aging biomarkers and increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). However, the roles of aging biomarkers in the association of long-term exposure to ambient ozone with ASCVD are unclear.

METHODS

A total of 5298 participants completed the questionnaire and physical examination and provided biological specimens. Aging biomarkers (telomere length [TL] and mitochondrial copy number [mtDNA-CN]) were measured by using a real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The concentration of ambient ozone was assessed using a random forest model. Associations of ambient ozone or aging biomarkers with 10-year ASCVD risk were analyzed using logistic regression models. The roles of aging biomarkers in the association of ambient ozone exposure with 10-year ASCVD risk were explored by mediation analysis.

RESULTS

The adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence interval of high 10-year ASCVD risk were 1.16 (1.08, 1.25), 0.71 (0.60, 0.85), and 0.78 (0.64, 0.96) in association with each 1-unit increment in ambient ozone (1 μg/m³ ) concentration, relative TL, and mtDNA-CN, respectively. The mediated proportion of the association between ambient ozone exposure and high 10-year ASCVD risk by TL or mtDNA-CN was 21.13% or 7.75%, respectively. The total proportion of association between ambient ozone exposure and high 10-year ASCVD risk mediated by TL plus mtDNA-CN was 21.02%.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to ambient ozone was associated with increased 10-year ASCVD risk, and the association was partially mediated by aging biomarkers (shortened TL and decreased mtDNA-CN). This study indicated that ambient ozone pollution-related ASCVD risk might be partially explained by the telomere-mitochondrial axis of aging.

Aging impairs arterial compliance via Klotho-mediated downregulation of B-cell population and IgG levels

OBJECTIVE

Aging is associated with compromised immune function and arterial remodeling and stiffness. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether in vivo AAV-based delivery of secreted Klotho (SKL) gene (AAV-SKL) improves aging- and senescence-associated immune dysfunction and arterial stiffness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Senescence-accelerated mice prone strain 1 (SAMP1, 10 months) and old mice (20 months) were used. Serum SKL levels, B-cell population and serum IgG levels were markedly decreased in SAMP1 and old mice. Rescue of downregulation of serum SKL levels by in vivo AAV2-based delivery of SKL gene (AAV-SKL) increased B-cell population and serum IgG levels and attenuated arterial stiffness in SAMP1 and old mice. Thus, Klotho deficiency may play a role in senescence- and aging-associated humoral immune dysfunction and arterial stiffness. Vascular infiltration of inflammatory cells and expression of TGFβ1, collagen 1, scleraxis, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were increased while the elastin level was decreased in aortas of SAMP1 and old mice which can be rescued by AAV-SKL. Interestingly, treatment with IgG effectively rescued arterial inflammation and remodeling and attenuated arterial stiffness and hypertension in aging mice. In cultured B-lymphoblast cells, we further showed that SKL regulates B-cell proliferation and maturation partly via the NFkB pathway.

CONCLUSION

Aging-associated arterial stiffening may be largely attributed to downregulation of B-cell population and serum IgG levels. AAV-SKL attenuates arterial stiffness in aging mice partly via restoring B-cell population and serum IgG levels which attenuates aging-associated vascular inflammation and arterial remodeling.

The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Flavonoids from Propolis via Nrf2 and NF-κB Pathways

Accumulating evidence shows that oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. It has been suggested that propolis possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the main flavonoids of propolis (chrysin, pinocembrin, galangin, and pinobanksin) and propolis extract were researched. The results showed that the cellular ROS (Reactive oxygen species) levels, antioxidant enzymes, Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) nuclear translocation, and the expression of NQO1 (NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1) and HO-1 (heme oxygenase 1) were regulated by different concentrations of individual flavonoids and propolis extract, which showed good antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects. For example, ROS levels were decreased; SOD and CAT activities were increased; and the expression of HO-1 protein was increased by chrysin. The results demonstrated that NO (Nitric Oxide), NOS (Nitric Oxide Synthase), and the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway were inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by different concentrations of individual flavonoids and propolis extract. Moreover, the results revealed that the phytochemicals presented antioxidant effects at lower concentrations but pro-oxidant effects and stronger anti-inflammatory effects at higher concentrations. To maintain the balance of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, it is possible that phytochemicals activate the Nrf2 pathway and inhibited the NF-κB (Nuclear factor kappa B) pathway.

Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress Tethered to Cardiovascular Diseases

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

Adverse outcome pathway of fine particulate matter leading to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality: An integrated perspective from toxicology and epidemiology

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) exposure is a major threat to public health, and is listed as one of the leading factors associated with global premature mortality. Among the adverse health effects on multiple organs or tissues, the influence of PM_2.5 exposure on cardiovascular system has drawn more and more attention. Although numerous studies have investigated the mechanisms responsible for the cardiovascular toxicity of PM_2.5, the various mechanisms have not been integrated due to the variety of the study models, different levels of toxicity assessment endpoints, etc. Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework is a useful tool to achieve this goal so as to facilitate comprehensive understanding of toxicity assessment of PM_2.5 on cardiovascular system. This review aims to illustrate the causal mechanistic relationships of PM_2.5-triggered cardiovascular toxicity from different levels (from molecular/cellular/organ to individual/population) by using AOP framework. Based on the AOP Wiki and published literature, we propose an AOP framework focusing on the cardiovascular toxicity induced by PM_2.5 exposure. The molecular initiating event (MIE) is identified as reactive oxygen species generation, followed by the key events (KEs) of oxidative damage and mitochondria dysfunction, which induces vascular endothelial dysfunction via vascular endothelial cell autophagy dysfunction, vascular fibrosis via vascular smooth muscle cell activation, cardiac dysregulation via myocardial apoptosis, and cardiac fibrosis via fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation, respectively; all of the above cardiovascular injuries ultimately elevate cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the general population. As far as we know, this is the first work on PM_2.5-related cardiovascular AOP construction. In the future, more work needs to be done to explore new markers in the safety assessment of cardiovascular toxicity induced by PM_2.5.

Low-power infrared laser modulates mRNA levels from genes of base excision repair and genomic stabilization in heart tissue from an experimental model of acute lung injury

The aim of this study was to evaluate photobiomodulation effects on mRNA relative levels from genes of base excision repair and genomic stabilization in heart tissue from an experimental model of acute lung injury by sepsis. For experimental procedure, animals were randomly assigned to six main groups: (1) control group was animals treated with intraperitoneal saline solution; (2) LASER-10 was animals treated with intraperitoneal saline solution and exposed to an infrared laser at 10 J cm^-2; (3) LASER-20 was animals treated with intraperitoneal saline solution and exposed to an infrared laser at 20 J cm^-2; (4) acute lung injury (ALI) was animals treated with intraperitoneal LPS (10 mg kg^-1); (5) ALI-LASER10 was animals treated with intraperitoneal LPS (10 mg kg^-1) and, after 4 h, exposed to an infrared laser at 10 J cm^-2 and (6) ALI-LASER20 was animals treated with intraperitoneal LPS (10 mg kg^-1) and, after 4 h, exposed to an infrared laser at 20 J cm^-2. Irradiation was performed only once and animal euthanasias for analysis of mRNA relative levels by RT-qPCR. Our results showed that there was a reduction of mRNA relative levels from ATM gene and an increase of mRNA relative levels from P53 gene in the heart of animals with ALI when compared to the control group. In addition, there was an increase of mRNA relative levels from OGG1 and APE1 gene in hearts from animals with ALI when compared to the control group. After irradiation, an increase of mRNA relative levels from ATM and OGG1 gene was observed at 20 J cm^-2. In conclusion, low-power laser modulates the mRNA relative levels from genes of base excision repair and genomic stabilization in the experimental model of acute lung injury evaluated.

Oxidative Stress in Intestinal Ischemia-Reperfusion

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a manifestation of tissue or organ damage that is followed by ischemia and exacerbated by the return of blood flow to a previously damaged tissue or organ. The intestines are one of the most sensitive tissues and organs to I/R injury. Moreover, the adverse consequences of intestinal I/R (II/R) injury are not limited to the intestine itself and can also lead to damage of the distant tissues and organs. The mechanism of II/R is extremely complex and oxidative stress is the key link in the pathogenesis of II/R injury. This study summarizes the roles of oxidative stress and its signaling pathways involved in II/R. The signaling pathways that mitigate II/R injury include the nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated signaling pathway, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and phosphatidylinositol kinase 3 (PI3K)/Akt pathway; those that aggravate II/R injury include the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, Toll-like receptor (TLR) receptor-mediated signaling pathway, protein kinase CβII (PKCβII)/p66shc pathway, and microRNA (miRNA)/p66shc pathway; the effect of miRNA on related pathways and mitochondrial DNA translocation. The aforementioned pathways provide new ideas for further exploring the occurrence and development of II/R and more effective treatments for II/R injury.

Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) and the Cardiovascular System: in Physiology and in Disease States

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) plays a critical role in regulating and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. The importance of eNOS can be emphasized from the genetic polymorphisms of the eNOS gene, uncoupling of eNOS dimerization, and its numerous signaling regulations. The activity of eNOS on the cardiac myocytes, vasculature, and the central nervous system are discussed. The effects of eNOS on the sympathetic autonomic nervous system (SANS) and the parasympathetic autonomic nervous system (PANS), both of which profoundly influence the cardiovascular system, will be elaborated. The relationship between the eNOS protein with cardiovascular autonomic reflexes such as the baroreflex and the Exercise Pressor Reflex will be discussed. For example, the effects of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) are shown to be mediated by the eNOS protein and that eNOS-derived endothelial NO is most effective in regulating blood pressure oscillations via modulating the baroreflex mechanisms. The protective action of eNOS on the CVS is emphasized here because dysfunction of the eNOS enzyme is intricately correlated with the pathogenesis of several cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, arteriosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Overall, our current understanding of the eNOS protein with a focus on its role in the modulation, regulation, and control of the cardiovascular system in a normal physiological state and in cardiovascular diseases are discussed.

Ionizing Radiation-Induced Brain Cell Aging and the Potential Underlying Molecular Mechanisms

Population aging is occurring rapidly worldwide, challenging the global economy and healthcare services. Brain aging is a significant contributor to various age-related neurological and neuropsychological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Several extrinsic factors, such as exposure to ionizing radiation, can accelerate senescence. Multiple human and animal studies have reported that exposure to ionizing radiation can have varied effects on organ aging and lead to the prolongation or shortening of life span depending on the radiation dose or dose rate. This paper reviews the effects of radiation on the aging of different types of brain cells, including neurons, microglia, astrocytes, and cerebral endothelial cells. Further, the relevant molecular mechanisms are discussed. Overall, this review highlights how radiation-induced senescence in different cell types may lead to brain aging, which could result in the development of various neurological and neuropsychological disorders. Therefore, treatment targeting radiation-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation may prevent radiation-induced brain aging and the neurological and neuropsychological disorders it may cause.

Cell-Free Mitochondrial DNA as a Potential Biomarker for Astronauts' Health

Background

Space travel–associated stressors such as microgravity or radiation exposure have been reported in astronauts after short‐ and long‐duration missions aboard the International Space Station. Despite risk mitigation strategies, adverse health effects remain a concern. Thus, there is a need to develop new diagnostic tools to facilitate early detection of physiological stress.

Methods and Results

We measured the levels of circulating cell‐free mitochondrial DNA in blood plasma of 14 astronauts 10 days before launch, the day of landing, and 3 days after return. Our results revealed a significant increase of cell‐free mitochondrial DNA in the plasma on the day of landing and 3 days after return with vast ~2 to 355‐fold interastronaut variability. In addition, gene expression analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed a significant increase in markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that cell‐free mitochondrial DNA abundance might be a biomarker of stress or immune response related to microgravity, radiation, and other environmental factors during space flight.

Mitochondrial gene mutations in pediatric septic shock

BACKGROUND

There has been a growing interest in the association between mitochondrial dysfunction and sepsis. However, most studies have focused on mitochondrial structural damage, functional aspects, or the clinical phenotypes in sepsis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene mutations in critically ill pediatric patients with septic shock.

METHOD

Thirteen patients with severe sepsis or septic shock admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a tertiary children's hospital were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Clinical data from electronic medical records were obtained. Whole-blood samples were collected within 24 h of PICU admission to perform PBMC isolation, mtDNA extraction, and mtDNA sequencing using next-generation sequencing.

RESULTS

mtDNA sequencing revealed mutations in 9 of the 13 patients, presenting 27 point mutations overall, with 15 (55.6%) located in the locus related to adenosine triphosphate production and superoxide metabolism, including electron transport.

CONCLUSION

In this pilot study, significant numbers of mtDNA point mutations were detected in critically ill pediatric patients with septic shock. These mutations could provide promising evidence for mitochondrial dysfunction in sepsis and a basis for further large-scale studies.

IMPACT

This study is the first to examine mitochondrial DNA mutations in pediatric patients with septic shock using next-generation sequencing. A high frequency of mitochondrial DNA mutations was detected in these patients indicating an association with septic shock. This pilot study may provide a potential explanation for the association between mitochondrial dysfunction and septic shock on a genetic basis.

Oxidative Stress in Preterm Newborns

Preterm babies are highly susceptible to oxidative stress (OS) due to an imbalance between the oxidant and antioxidant systems. The generation of free radicals (FR) induces oxidative damage to multiple body organs and systems. OS is the main factor responsible for the development of typical premature infant diseases, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, kidney damage, eryptosis, and also respiratory distress syndrome and patent ductus arteriosus. Many biomarkers have been detected to early identify newborns at risk of developing a free radical-mediated disease and to investigate new antioxidant strategies. This review reports the current knowledge on OS in the preterm newborns and the newest findings concerning the use of OS biomarkers as diagnostic tools, as well as in implementing antioxidant therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of these diseases and their sequelae.

Aging disrupts the temporal organization of antioxidant defenses in the heart of male rats and phase shifts circadian rhythms of systolic blood pressure

Aging is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, and oxidative stress is a key element responsible for the development of age-related pathologies. In addition, the alteration of circadian rhythms also contributes to cardiovascular pathology, but the underlying mechanisms are not well defined. We investigated the aging consequences on the temporal patterns of antioxidant defenses, the molecular clock machinery, and the blood pressure, in the heart of male rats maintained under constant darkness (free running) conditions. Male Holtzman rats from young adult (3-month-old) and older (22-month-old) groups were maintained under constant darkness (12-h dark:12-h dark, DD) condition during fifteen days before the experiment. After the DD period, heart ventricle samples were isolated every 4-h throughout a 24-h period. We observed circadian rhythms of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) mRNA expression, as well as ultradian rhythms of Nrf2 mRNA levels, in the heart of young adult rats. We also found circadian oscillations of CAT and GPx enzymatic activities, reduced glutathione (GSH) and BMAL1 protein in the same group. Interestingly, aging abolished the rhythms of CAT and GPx enzymatic activities, phase-shifted the rhythm's acrophases of GSH and BMAL1 protein levels and turned circadian the ultradian oscillation of Nrf2 expression. Moreover, aging phase-shifted the circadian pattern of systolic blood pressure. In conclusion, aging modifies the temporal organization of antioxidant defenses and blood pressure, probably, as a consequence of a disruption in the circadian rhythm of the clock's transcriptional regulator, BMAL1, in heart.

Vascular and Cardiac Oxidative Stress and Inflammation as Targets for Cardioprotection

Cardiac and vascular diseases are often associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation, and both may contribute to the disease progression. However, successful applications of antioxidants in the clinical setting are very rare and specific anti-inflammatory therapeutics only emerged recently. Reasons for this rely on the great diversity of oxidative stress and inflammatory cells that can either act as cardioprotective or cause tissue damage in the heart. Recent large-scale clinical trials found that highly specific anti-inflammatory therapies using monoclonal antibodies against cytokines resulted in lower cardiovascular mortality in patients with pre-existing atherosclerotic disease. In addition, unspecific antiinflammatory medication and established cardiovascular drugs with pleiotropic immunomodulatory properties such as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or statins have proven beneficial cardiovascular effects. Normalization of oxidative stress seems to be a common feature of these therapies, which can be explained by a close interaction/crosstalk of the cellular redox state and inflammatory processes. In this review, we give an overview of cardiac reactive oxygen species (ROS) sources and processes of cardiac inflammation as well as the connection of ROS and inflammation in ischemic cardiomyopathy in order to shed light on possible cardioprotective interventions.

APOBECs orchestrate genomic and epigenomic editing across health and disease

APOBEC proteins can deaminate cytosine residues in DNA and RNA. This can lead to somatic mutations, DNA breaks, RNA modifications, or DNA demethylation in a selective manner. APOBECs function in various cellular compartments and recognize different nucleic acid motifs and structures. They orchestrate a wide array of genomic and epigenomic modifications, thereby affecting various cellular functions positively or negatively, including immune editing, viral and retroelement restriction, DNA damage responses, DNA demethylation, gene expression, and tissue homeostasis. Furthermore, the cumulative increase in genomic and epigenomic editing with aging could also, at least in part, be attributed to APOBEC function. We synthesize our cumulative understanding of APOBEC activity in a unifying overview and discuss their genomic and epigenomic impact in physiological, pathological, and technological contexts.

An Overview of NO Signaling Pathways in Aging

Nitric Oxide (NO) is a potent signaling molecule involved in the regulation of various cellular mechanisms and pathways under normal and pathological conditions. NO production, its effects, and its efficacy, are extremely sensitive to aging-related changes in the cells. Herein, we review the mechanisms of NO signaling in the cardiovascular system, central nervous system (CNS), reproduction system, as well as its effects on skin, kidneys, thyroid, muscles, and on the immune system during aging. The aging-related decline in NO levels and bioavailability is also discussed in this review. The decreased NO production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was revealed in the aged cardiovascular system. In the CNS, the decline of the neuronal (n)NOS production of NO was related to the impairment of memory, sleep, and cognition. NO played an important role in the aging of oocytes and aged-induced erectile dysfunction. Aging downregulated NO signaling pathways in endothelial cells resulting in skin, kidney, thyroid, and muscle disorders. Putative therapeutic agents (natural/synthetic) affecting NO signaling mechanisms in the aging process are discussed in the present study. In summary, all of the studies reviewed demonstrate that NO plays a crucial role in the cellular aging processes.

Gastrodin extends the lifespan and protects against neurodegeneration in the Drosophila PINK1 model of Parkinson's disease

Gastrodin is the main bioactive ingredient of a famous Chinese herb Rhizoma Gastrodiae. Many studies have reported that gastrodin has antioxidative and neuroprotective effects, although its effect on longevity and the mechanism of neuroprotection have not been well studied. Here, we use Drosophila melanogaster as a model to investigate the longevity and neuroprotective effects of gastrodin. Gastrodin significantly extended the lifespan, increased the climbing ability, enhanced the resistance to oxidative stress, increased the enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and promoted the expression of anti-oxidative genes in old flies. The food intake, reproduction and starvation resistance were not affected in flies treated with gastrodin. Moreover, gastrodin delayed the onset of Parkinson-like phenotypes in Pink1^B9 mutant flies, including the prolongation of the lifespan, rescue of the climbing ability, rescue of the progressive loss of a cluster of dopaminergic neurons in the protocerebral posterial lateral 1 region, and increase of the dopamine content in the brain. Gastrodin did not ameliorate the tau-induced neurobehavioral deficits in the fly AD model of taupathy. Together, these results indicate that gastrodin could prolong the lifespan by regulating the antioxidant ability, and protect against neurodegeneration in the Pink1^B9 model of PD. This suggests that gastrodin can be considered as an ideal therapeutic candidate for drug development towards anti-aging.

Redox-related biomarkers in human cardiovascular disease - classical footprints and beyond

Global epidemiological studies show that chronic non-communicable diseases such as atherosclerosis and metabolic disorders represent the leading cause of premature mortality and morbidity. Cardiovascular disease such as ischemic heart disease is a major contributor to the global burden of disease and the socioeconomic health costs. Clinical and epidemiological data show an association of typical oxidative stress markers such as lipid peroxidation products, 3-nitrotyrosine or oxidized DNA/RNA bases with all major cardiovascular diseases. This supports the concept that the formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species by various sources (NADPH oxidases, xanthine oxidase and mitochondrial respiratory chain) represents a hallmark of the leading cardiovascular comorbidities such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension and diabetes. These reactive oxygen and nitrogen species can lead to oxidative damage but also adverse redox signaling at the level of kinases, calcium handling, inflammation, epigenetic control, circadian clock and proteasomal system. The in vivo footprints of these adverse processes (redox biomarkers) are discussed in the present review with focus on their clinical relevance, whereas the details of their mechanisms of formation and technical aspects of their detection are only briefly mentioned. The major categories of redox biomarkers are summarized and explained on the basis of suitable examples. Also the potential prognostic value of redox biomarkers is critically discussed to understand what kind of information they can provide but also what they cannot achieve.

Ethoxyquin is neuroprotective and partially prevents somatic and autonomic neuropathy in db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes

Ethoxyquin (EQ), a quinolone-based antioxidant, has demonstrated neuroprotective properties against several neurotoxic drugs in a phenotypic screening and is shown to protect axons in animal models of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. We assessed the effects of EQ on peripheral nerve function in the db/db mouse model of type II diabetes. After a 7 week treatment period, 12-week-old db/db-vehicle, db/+ -vehicle and db/db-EQ treated animals were evaluated by nerve conduction, paw withdrawal against a hotplate, and fiber density in hindlimb footpads. We found that the EQ group had shorter paw withdrawal latency compared to vehicle db/db group. The EQ group scored higher in nerve conduction studies, compared to vehicle-treated db/db group. Morphology studies yielded similar results. To investigate the potential role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions in the observed effects of EQ, we measured total mtDNA deletion burden in the distal sciatic nerve. We observed an increase in total mtDNA deletion burden in vehicle-treated db/db mice compared to db/+ mice that was partially prevented in db/db-EQ treated animals. These results suggest that EQ treatment may exert a neuroprotective effect in diabetic neuropathy. The prevention of diabetes-induced mtDNA deletions may be a potential mechanism of the neuroprotective effects of EQ in diabetic neuropathy.

The Role of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Vascular Disease, Tumorigenesis, and Diabetes

Mitochondrial dysfunction is known to be associated with a wide range of human pathologies, such as cancer, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases. One of the possible ways of mitochondrial involvement in the cellular damage is excessive production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) that cannot be effectively neutralized by existing antioxidant systems. In mitochondria, ROS and RNS can contribute to protein and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage causing failure of enzymatic chains and mutations that can impair mitochondrial function. These processes further lead to abnormal cell signaling, premature cell senescence, initiation of inflammation, and apoptosis. Recent studies have identified numerous mtDNA mutations associated with different human pathologies. Some of them result in imbalanced oxidative phosphorylation, while others affect mitochondrial protein synthesis. In this review, we discuss the role of mtDNA mutations in cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and atherosclerosis. We provide a list of currently described mtDNA mutations associated with each pathology and discuss the possible future perspective of the research.

Efficacy of the Piperidine Nitroxide 4-MethoxyTEMPO in Ameliorating Serum Amyloid A-Mediated Vascular Inflammation

Intracellular redox imbalance in endothelial cells (EC) can lead to endothelial dysfunction, which underpins cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The acute phase serum amyloid A (SAA) elicits inflammation through stimulating production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The cyclic nitroxide 4-MethoxyTEMPO (4-MetT) is a superoxide dismutase mimetic that suppresses oxidant formation and inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether 4-MetT inhibits SAA-mediated activation of cultured primary human aortic EC (HAEC). Co-incubating cells with 4-MetT inhibited SAA-mediated increases in adhesion molecules (VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, and JAM-C). Pre-treatment of cells with 4-MetT mitigated SAA-mediated increases in transcriptionally activated NF-κB-p65 and P120 Catenin (a stabilizer of Cadherin expression). Mitochondrial respiration and ROS generation (mtROS) were adversely affected by SAA with decreased respiratory reserve capacity, elevated maximal respiration and proton leakage all characteristic of SAA-treated HAEC. This altered respiration manifested as a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (confirmed by a decrease in TMRM fluorescence), and increased mtROS production as assessed with MitoSox Red. These SAA-linked impacts on mitochondria were mitigated by 4-MetT resulting in restoration of HAEC nitric oxide bioavailability as confirmed by assessing cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. Thus, 4-MetT ameliorates SAA-mediated endothelial dysfunction through normalising EC redox homeostasis. Subject to further validation in in vivo settings; these outcomes suggest its potential as a therapeutic in the setting of cardiovascular pathologies where elevated SAA and endothelial dysfunction is linked to enhanced CVD.

Is early life adversity a trigger towards inflammageing?

There are many 'faces' of early life adversity (ELA), such as childhood trauma, institutionalisation, abuse or exposure to environmental toxins. These have been implicated in the onset and severity of a wide range of chronic non-communicable diseases later in life. The later-life disease risk has a well-established immunological component. This raises the question as to whether accelerated immune-ageing mechanistically links early-life adversity to the lifelong health trajectory resulting in either 'poor' or 'healthy' ageing. Here we examine observational and mechanistic studies of ELA and inflammageing, highlighting common and distinct features in these two life stages. Many biological processes appear in common including reduction in telomere length, increased immunosenescence, metabolic distortions and chronic (viral) infections. We propose that ELA shapes the developing immune, endocrine and nervous system in a non-reversible way, creating a distinct phenotype with accelerated immunosenescence and systemic inflammation. We conclude that ELA might act as an accelerator for inflammageing and age-related diseases. Furthermore, we now have the tools and cohorts to be able to dissect the interaction between ELA and later life phenotype. This should, in the near future, allow us to identify the ecological and mechanistic processes that are involved in 'healthy' or accelerated immune-ageing.