Prediction of cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome in adults from Saudi Arabia using the logarithm of triglyceride/HDL-cholesterol ratio

Objective

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death globally. Metabolic syndrome (MtS) is a risk factor that increases the likelihood of CVD. The atherogenic index (AIP), calculated as the logarithm of the ratio of triglycerides (TG) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) cholesterol in plasma, is a valuable marker for highly atherogenic small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol particles. This study aimed to explore MtS prevalence and investigate the potential of using the AIP as a predictor for CVD risk factors in adults from the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

The cross-sectional study enrolled 589 participants from public hospitals in nine major cities who completed a detailed questionnaire on health, diet, and lifestyle. Anthropometric measurements and some clinical parameters were measured.

Results

The findings indicated a significant prevalence of MtS (37.5%) among participants from the Qassim Area, which was higher in males (39.9%) than females (34.9%). Nevertheless, a significant prevalence was shown for CVD risk factors among participants, with hyperglycemia (78.1%), hypertriglyceridemia (39.0%), hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia (38.9%), and hypertension (21.6%) being common. The AIP's performance in identifying CVD risk factors showed a receiver operating characteristic value of 0.909 (P < 0.001). The optimal cutoff value for the AIP was determined to be 0.468, demonstrating high sensitivity (84.8%) and specificity (78.6%).

Conclusion

Incorporating AIP into clinical practice could enhance CVD risk prediction compared to using lipid profiles alone. These findings suggest that there is a high prevalence of MtS among adults in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Further longitudinal studies are needed to recommend AIP as a robust tool for predicting CVD in clinical settings.

Novel mutation in alpha-spectrin gene in Saudi patients with hereditary spherocytosis

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is the most common hereditary hemolytic disorder induced by red blood cell (RBC) membrane defect. This study was undertaken to determine mutations in genes associated with RBC membrane defect in patients with HS such as α-spectrin gene (SPTA1), β-spectrin gene (SPTB), ankyrin gene (ANK1), band 3 anion transport gene (SLC4A1) and erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 gene (EPB41). Blood samples were collected from 23 unrelated patients with HS. Patients were diagnosed according to the guidelines from the British Society for Hematology. All hematological examinations for the determination of RBC abnormalities and osmotic fragility tests were conducted. Genomic DNA were extracted from peripheral blood cells and coding exons of known genes for hereditary spherocytosis were enriched using Roche/KAPA sequence capture technology and sequenced on an Illumina system via next-generation sequencing (NGS). The data showed that most of the HS patients confirmed splenomegaly and showed elevated reticulocytes and abnormal bilirubin values. NGS analysis identified the heterozygous variant c.5501G > A in the exon 39 of SPTA1 gene, resulted in a Trp1834*, which leads to a premature stop codon and subsequent mRNA degradation (nonsense- mediated decay) or truncation in α spectrin. Moreover, our data also revealed conventional mutations in genes SPTB, ANK, SLC4A1 and EBP41 in severe patients of HS. In short, this is the first report that determined a novel mutation c.5501G > A in SPTA1 gene in the Saudi population. To the best of our knowledge, this variant c.5501G > A has not been described in global literature so far. This novel mutation in SPTA1 gene is unique in the Saudi population.

Oleuropein, a phenolic component of Olea europaea L. ameliorates CCl4-induced liver injury in rats through the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the hepatoprotective role of oleuropein (Olp), a phenolic compound found in olive, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research involved male albino rats, which received intraperitoneal injections of 100 mg/kg b.w. of oleuropein for 8 consecutive weeks before being subjected to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) at a dosage of 1.0 ml/kg b.w. Changes induced by CCl4 in antioxidant and inflammatory marker levels were assessed using ELISA assay kits. Moreover, CCl4-induced liver tissue architecture alteration, fibrosis, and expression pattern of protein were evaluated by performing H&E, Sirius red, Masson trichrome, and immunohistochemistry staining.

RESULTS

Increased serum transaminases and massive hepatic damage were observed by this liver toxicant. The hepatic injury was further evidenced by a significant decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione (GSH) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (T-AOC)]. The administration of CCl4 resulted in an increased inflammatory response, which was measured by C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, as well as tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Olp as a curative regimen led to significant attenuation in the inflammatory response and oxidative/nitrosative stress. This polyphenol treatment improved the hepatic tissue architecture and decreased fibrosis. In the CCl4 treatment group, the expression pattern of IL-6 protein was high, whereas expression was decreased after Olp, as evidenced by immunohistochemistry staining.

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggests that oleuropein treatment has the potential to reduce liver damage caused by CCl4 induction by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation and maintaining liver tissue architecture. This could make it a promising treatment option for liver pathogenesis.

Hypolipidemic, Hypoglycemic, and Ameliorative Effects of Boiled Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) and Mallow (Corchorus olitorius) Leaf Extracts in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats

Obesity is a major health concern associated with serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This study investigated the potential anti-obesity effects of heat-treated parsley and mallow extracts (PE and ME, respectively) in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. The selected herbs underwent three heat treatments (boiling, blanching, and microwaving), and the most effective treatment was orally administered to the HFD rats for eight weeks. All three treatments effectively increased the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity of the herbs, with boiling treatment exhibiting the most significant increase. Boiled herbs demonstrated approximately 29% higher TPC and an impressive 348% increase in antioxidant activity compared to the other treatments. Oral administration of the boiled herb extracts to the HFD rats resulted in significant reductions in body weight, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol levels, while elevating the HDL cholesterol levels compared to the positive control rats. Additionally, the boiled herb extracts exhibited antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects. Notably, PE displayed more significant anti-obesity properties compared to ME, potentially due to higher TPC and antioxidant activity observed in PE compared to ME. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential positive effects of boiled parsley against obesity and recommends boiling treatment as the preferred method when heat treatment is required for herbs.

Oral administration of naringenin and a mixture of coconut water and Arabic gum attenuate oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of oral administration of naringenin in combination with an aqueous mixture of coconut water (CW) and Arabic gum (AG) on renal function, lipid profile, antioxidant activity, and morphology in gentamicin-induced kidney injury in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty adult male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups. 1-Negative control group, 2-positive control group (Gentamicin), 3-Naringenin+AG+CW, 4-Gentamicin+Naringenin+AG+CW: groups 2 and 4 were treated with gentamicin. After six weeks, the rats were anesthetized with diethyl ether, and blood was collected by cardiac puncture and dissected to collect the kidneys. Biochemical studies were performed to determine the levels of urea, creatinine, lipids, total antioxidant capacity, and lipid peroxide, antioxidant enzyme activity in the kidney, total phenolic content (TPC), radical-scavenging activity, calcium, magnesium, and potassium in AG, CW, and their mixture. Also, kidney histopathology was performed.

RESULTS

Renal injury manifests as elevated serum urea and creatinine levels. A significant increase in total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and malondialdehyde (MDA) was also noted. The activities of antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduced glutathione (GSH) significantly decreased in the serum. There was a reduction in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activities in kidney homogenates. Gentamicin administration induces morphological changes in the kidneys. Oral administration of naringenin+AG+CW significantly overturned all of the above-mentioned abnormalities.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the naringenin+AG+CW combination exhibited an additive effect against renal dysfunction and structural damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, as well as replenishing and balancing intracellular and extracellular electrolytes. Therefore, oral administration of these three ingredients could potentially provide better protection and serve as a unique therapeutic tool against nephrotoxicity caused by gentamicin.

Regulatory effects of ketogenic diet on the inflammatory response in obese Saudi women

Objective

In recent years, the use of a ketogenic diet (KD) against obesity has gained popularity in KSA. This study was designed to determine the impact of KD on anthropometric indices and on the abnormal regulation of inflammatory activities in obese Saudi women. Moreover, we investigated the potential of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) supplementation on the inhibition of pro-inflammatory activities.

Methods

We enrolled 31 Saudi women (aged, 35.3 ± 8.4 years) with an average BMI of 33.96 ± 4.44 kg/m² underwent an 8-week KD (8KD) from January to March 2021. Changes in anthropometric measurements were collected at baseline and after 4-8 weeks of intervention. Compliance with the dietary regimen was monitored weekly by plasma BHB level.

Results

Twenty-nine females commenced the diets and 23 completed the study (a 79% completion rate). In comparison to pre-intervention, the 8KD resulted in a significant increase in the levels of plasma BHB (P < 0.001) throughout the duration of the trial. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in weight loss (7.7 kg ± 11.3; P < 0.001), BMI, waist circumference (P < 0.001), and levels of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

An 8-week KD was found to be useful in producing a positive impact on anthropometric indices, biochemical and inflammatory processes. This study indicated that the intake of a KD by obese Saudi women induced the release of BHB in the blood without stimulation of an overall starvation response. This may be useful to alleviate the severity of chronic inflammatory disorders associated with obesity.

Nutritional and Physicochemical Characteristics of Innovative High Energy and Protein Fruit- and Date-Based Bars

With the increasing global nutritional bar market, developing and formulating innovative high-energy and protein bars to compensate for nutrients using date fruits is beneficial for health-conscious individuals. The current research was undertaken to study the composition and physicochemical characteristics of innovative high-energy and high-protein bars using two combinations of Sukkari dates or fruit mixtures as a base. Fifty percent of either Sukkari date paste or dried fruit mixture (25% raisin, 12.5% fig, and 12.5% apricot) combined with other different ingredients was used to produce a date-based bar (DBB) or fruit-based bar (FBB). Proximate composition, sugar content, amino and fatty acid profiles, minerals and vitamins, phytochemicals, antioxidant activity, and visual color parameters of the DBB and the FBB were determined and statistically compared. Proximate analysis revealed higher moisture and fat content in the FBB than the DBB, while ash and crude fiber were higher in the DBB than the FBB. The protein content in the DBB and the FBB was not statistically different. Both prepared bars exuded around 376-378 kcal 100 g-1 fresh weight. Sugar profile analysis of the DBB and the FBB showed dependable changes based on date or fruit content. Fructose, glucose, and maltose contents were higher in the FBB than in the DBB, while sucrose content was higher in the DBB than in the FBB. The DBB showed significantly higher content in Ca, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Se and significantly lower content in Mg, K, and Na than the FBB, with no variation in phosphorus content. The DBB and the FBB contained both essential (EAA) and non-essential (NEAA) amino acids. The DBB scored higher Lysine, Methionine, Histidine, Threonine, Phenylalanine, Isoleucine, and Cystine contents than the FBB, while the FBB scored only higher Leucine and Valine contents than the DBB. Seventeen saturated fatty acids were identified in the DBB and the FBB, with Palmitic acid (C16:0) as the predominant fatty acid. Oleic acid (C18:1n9c) was predominant among seven determined monounsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic fatty acid (C18:2n6c) was predominant among eight identified polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, α-Linolenic (C18:3n3) was detected in a considerable amount. However, in both the DBB and the FBB, the content and distribution of fatty acids were not remarkably changed. Regarding phytochemicals and bioactive compounds, the FBB was significantly higher in total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), and total flavonols (TFL) contents and scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS free radicals than the DBB. The DBB and the FBB showed positive a* values, indicating a reddish color. The b* values were 27.81 and 28.54 for the DBB and the FBB, respectively. The DBB is affected by the lower L* value and higher browning index (BI) to make its color brownish. Sensory evaluation data showed that panelists significantly preferred the DBB over the FBB. In conclusion, processing and comparing these bars indicated that using Sukkari dates is a nutrient-dense, convenient, economical, and better sugar alternative that helps combat the calorie content. Thus, scaling up the use of dates instead of fruits in producing high-energy and protein bars commercially is highly recommended.

The Effect of Ramadan Intermittent Fasting on Food Intake, Anthropometric Indices, and Metabolic Markers among Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and objectives: Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) is a monthlong practice in which Muslims fast during the whole day from sunrise to sunset. During this month, fasting people change their dietary behavior and alter their eating hours from day to night. The objective of the current study was to examine the effect of RIF on dietary consumption, anthropometric indices, and metabolic markers in healthy premenopausal (PRE-M) and postmenopausal (POST-M) Saudi women. Materials and Methods: The study included 62 women (31 PRE-M, 21-42 years, and 31 POST-M, 43-68 years). A structured questionnaire was used to collect socioeconomic data. Physical activity, anthropometric, dietary, and biochemical assessments were assessed before and at the end of the third week of Ramadan. Results: Socioeconomic data varied among participants. For both groups, observing RIF was associated with significantly (at either p ≤ 0.01 or p ≤ 0.05) lower intake of calories, macronutrients, minerals (excluding Na), and vitamins than before RIF. For the PRE-M group, the percentage of overweight participants decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.01) during Ramadan, while the percentage of obese participants remained unchanged. In contrast, for the POST-M group, the percentage of overweight participants increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) during Ramadan, but dropped at the end of Ramadan. Following RIF, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat, and fat mass (FM) decreased in both groups. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), and blood pressure (SBP, DBP) were generally maintained at acceptable normal levels in most participants before and at the end of RIF. However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) at the end of RIF was significantly lower than before, particularly in POST-M women. Age, occupation, and monthly income were the most important predictors for the changes in nutritional status and body fat upon RIF. Conclusions: observing RIF by PRE-M and POST-M Saudi women was associated with significant improvements in variable health indicators, with a few exceptions, and may help lower risk factors for chronic diseases, particularly among POST-M women. However, further studies with a larger sample size are required to determine and confirm the exact effect of RIF on these groups.

Biological Assessment of Stevioside and Sucralose as Sucrose Substitutes for Diabetics on STZ-Induced Diabetes in Rats

Numerous food organizations have identified excessive calorie consumption and accompanying ailments as significant health risks associated with high sugar consumption. Administering stevioside (ST), sucralose (SU), and the two synergically (SU+ST) affected normal rats' weight gain. In the current study, SU showed the highest undesired effect. Indeed, administering the three treatments to diabetic rats (DR) did not improve the rats' weight gain. Although, insulin injection synergically with the treatments improved the weight gain, as recorded after three weeks. The best-improving rate was observed in the ST group. After the administration of ST and ST+SU to the DR, the blood glucose level (GL) was positively affected, with SU having no effects on reducing the GL. A considerable reduction in serum insulin (SIL) was noted in the DR+SU group. On the contrary, ST did not negatively affect the SIL, rather an improvement was recorded. In addition, giving SU did not significantly affect the ALT level in the DR or normal rats (NR). A significant improvement in total bilirubin (TBILI) was observed when insulin was injected with ST or SU in DR groups. Further, triglycerides (TG) after administering ST, SU, or ST+SU to NR had no significant difference compared to the control group (NR). Although, the three treatments markedly but not significantly lowered TG in the DR. For total cholesterol (CHO), both DR and NR had no significant effect after the three treatments. No histopathological alterations were recorded in the NR group. Diffuse and severe atrophy of the islands of Langerhans due to depletion of their cells and mild papillary hyperplasia of the pancreatic ducts were represented by a slightly folded ductal basement membrane and newly formed ductules in STZ-DR. Simultaneous atrophy and absence of the cells of islands of Langerhans besides ductal hyperplasia were evident in DR+SU. Hyperplastic ductal epithelium and atrophic Langerhans cells were seen in DR+SU+In. Degeneration and mild atrophy were observed in the islands of Langerhans structures. There was essentially no noticeable change after utilizing ST. A slight shrinkage of the Langerhans' islets was detected in DR+ST. In DR+ST+In, no histopathological alterations in the islands of Langerhans were recorded. Congestion in the stromal blood vessels associated with degenerative and necrotic changes in the cells of the islands of Langerhans in DR+SU+ST was observed. In NR+SU, congestion of the blood vessels associated with mild atrophy in the islands of Langerhans and dilatation in stromal blood vessels was noticed. In conclusion, ST is safe, and SU should be taken cautiously, such as mixing with ST and/or taken at a very low concentration to avoid its drastic effect on the human body.

Fermented camel milk enriched with plant sterols improves lipid profile and atherogenic index in rats fed high -fat and -cholesterol diets

The current study was designed to explore the effect of fermented camel milk, plant sterols and their combination on the blood levels of sd-LDL and atherogenicity in rats fed on high-fat-cholesterol diets (HFC). Forty male Wistar rats were distributed into five groups: Normal control (NC), Positive control (PC, HFC), plant sterol (PS, HFC containing 1% (w/w) β-sitosterol:Stigmasterols; 9:1), FM (HFC containing 4% (w/w) lyophilized fermented camel milk), and PSFM (HFC containing 1% (w/w) plant sterols +4% (w/w) lyophilized fermented camel milk). Antioxidant activity showed that β-sitosterol had the highest radical scavenging activity, followed by fermented camel milk and stigmasterol (p < 0.05). Feeding rats on HFC for 8 weeks resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) increase in blood lipids of PC group compared with NC group. Administration of PS, FM, and PSFM resulted in a significant reduction in atherogenic index (50, 24.5, and 41.5 %, p < 0.05), and sd-LDL levels (73, 45, and 59%, p < 0.05), respectively. Only the FM group showed a significant reduction in triglycerides levels of rats. Administration of PS, FM and PSFM decreased serum MDA levels significantly by 58.7, 45.4, and 69% (p < 0.05), and increased total antioxidant capacity by 35.9, 84.8, and 38.3% (p < 0.05), respectively. This is the first report to the best of our knowledge that shows fermented camel milk enriched with plant sterol could reduce atherogenesis and cardiovascular diseases activity via inhibition of the status of small dense LDL and oxidative stress.

Great Northern Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Lower Cholesterol in Hamsters Fed a High-Saturated-Fat Diet

BACKGROUND

Dietary interventions for high cholesterol, a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease, are generally considered before prescribing drugs.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effects of whole Great Northern beans (wGNBs) and their hull (hGNB) incorporated into a high-saturated-fat (HSF) diet on cholesterol markers and hepatic/small intestinal genes involved in cholesterol regulation.

METHODS

Each of the 4 groups of 11 male golden Syrian hamsters at 9 wk old were fed a normal-fat [NF; 5% (wt:wt) of soybean oil], HSF [5% (wt:wt) of soybean oil + 10% (wt:wt) of coconut oil], HSF+5% (wt:wt) wGNB, or HSF+0.5% (wt:wt) hGNB diet for 4 wk. Cholesterol markers and expression of genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and absorption were analyzed from plasma, liver, intestinal, and fecal samples. Data were analyzed by 1-factor ANOVA and Pearson correlations.

RESULTS

Compared with the HSF group, the HSF+wGNB group had 62% and 85% lower plasma and liver cholesterol and 3.6-fold and 1.4-fold greater fecal excretion of neutral sterol and bile acid, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). The HSF+hGNB group had 54% lower plasma triglycerides (P < 0.001) and 53% lower liver esterified cholesterol (P = 0.0002) than the HSF group. Compared with the HSF group, the expression of small intestinal Niemann-Pick C1 like 1 (Npc1l1), acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase 2 (Acat2), and ATP binding cassette transporter subfamily G member 5 (Abcg5) were 75%, 70%, and 49% lower, respectively, and expression of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase (Hmgr) was 11.5-fold greater in the HSF+wGNB group (P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of wGNBs resulted in lower cholesterol concentration in male hamsters fed an HSF diet by promoting fecal cholesterol excretion, most likely caused by Npc1l1 and Acat2 suppression. The hGNB may partially contribute to the cholesterol-lowering effect of the wGNBs.

Mucormycosis co-infection in COVID-19 patients: An update

Mucormycosis (MCM) is a rare fungal disorder that has recently been increased in parallel with novel COVID-19 infection. MCM with COVID-19 is extremely lethal, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The collection of available scientific information helps in the management of this co-infection, but still, the main question on COVID-19, whether it is occasional, participatory, concurrent, or coincidental needs to be addressed. Several case reports of these co-infections have been explained as causal associations, but the direct contribution in immunocompromised individuals remains to be explored completely. This review aims to provide an update that serves as a guide for the diagnosis and treatment of MCM patients' co-infection with COVID-19. The initial report has suggested that COVID-19 patients might be susceptible to developing invasive fungal infections by different species, including MCM as a co-infection. In spite of this, co-infection has been explored only in severe cases with common triangles: diabetes, diabetes ketoacidosis, and corticosteroids. Pathogenic mechanisms in the aggressiveness of MCM infection involves the reduction of phagocytic activity, attainable quantities of ferritin attributed with transferrin in diabetic ketoacidosis, and fungal heme oxygenase, which enhances iron absorption for its metabolism. Therefore, severe COVID-19 cases are associated with increased risk factors of invasive fungal co-infections. In addition, COVID-19 infection leads to reduction in cluster of differentiation, especially CD4+ and CD8+ T cell counts, which may be highly implicated in fungal co-infections. Thus, the progress in MCM management is dependent on a different strategy, including reduction or stopping of implicit predisposing factors, early intake of active antifungal drugs at appropriate doses, and complete elimination via surgical debridement of infected tissues.

Recognition of Pathogens and Their Inflammatory Signaling Events

The innate immune system is the main and first line of defense mechanism present in the human body, which acts against a foreign antigen. To function it utilize several mechanisms, among those are the primary one is recognizing the foreign antigen which is accomplished via decidedly complicated group of molecules termed as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which perceive various diverse structures present on the pathogen known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). PRPs include several classes of receptors’, functions, and nature of these receptors vary from each other depending upon the molecular composition of PAMPs they detect. However, the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are among the class of PRPs, which are studied widely. In this review, we have presented the contemporary understanding of pathogens recognition by various receptor classes including PRRs. In addition, we also discuss PRPs associated signaling pathways associated with antimicrobial immune response triggering.

Association of genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes ERCC2 Asp312Asn (rs1799793), ERCC2 Lys 751 Gln (rs13181), XRCC1 Arg399 Gln (rs25487) and XRCC3 Thr 241Met (rs861539) with the susceptibility of lung cancer in Saudi population

This study demonstrated the association of polymorphisms in ERCC2 (Asp312Asn) rs1799793, ERCC2 (Lys751Gln) rs13181, XRCC1 (Arg399Gln) rs25487 and XRCC3(Thr241Met) rs861539 polymorphisms with a susceptibility of lung cancer (LC) onset in the Saudi population. The study was performed on 134 LC patients and 270 controls. The data revealed that there was no significant association of LC with subtype squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and adenocarcinoma with the ERCC2 rs1799793 polymorphism. The data showed that the CC genotype for ERCC2 rs13181, the AA genotype for XRCC1 rs25487, and the genotype TT for XRCC3 rs861539 were significantly associated with SCC susceptibility (p < 0.05). Similarly, the CC genotype for ERCC2 rs13181 and the AA genotype for XRCC1 rs25487 were significantly associated with adenocarcinoma susceptibility (p < 0.05). Whereas, the TT genotype for XRCC3 rs861539 was significantly associated with SCLC susceptibility (p = 0.005). In total, significant association of LC susceptibility was found in the following combination models of recessive genotypes: AC heterozygous for ERCC2 rs13181 + AA homozygous for XRCC1 rs25487, CC homozygous for ERCC2 rs13181 + GA heterozygous for rs25487, CC homozygous for rs13181 + AA homozygous for XRCC1 rs25487, CC homozygous for ERCC2 rs13181 + TT homozygous for XRCC3 rs861539, GA heterozygous for XRCC1 rs25487 + CT heterozygous for XRCC3 rs861539, GA heterozygous for XRCC1 rs25487 + TT homozygous for XRCC3 rs861539, AA homozygous for XRCC1 rs25487 + CT heterozygous for XRCC3 rs861539, AA homozygous for XRCC1 rs25487+ TT homozygous for XRCC3 rs861539. These data clearly demonstrated that the combination of recessive genotypes may be associated with susceptibility of LC onset (p < 0.05). In short, the data indicated that DNA repair genes increase LC risk via gene-gene interaction rather than independent variants.

Modulation of mice immune responses against Schistosoma mansoni infection with anti-schistosomiasis drugs: Role of interleukin-4 and interferon-gamma

OBJECTIVE

Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) is endemic in Africa, the Middle East, South America, and the Caribbean. This study investigated the modulation of immune response against S. mansoni through estimation of interleukin-4 (IL-4) (Th2 cytokine) and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) (Th1 cytokine) under the effect of anti-schistosomal drugs.

METHODS

Laboratory bred female albino mice (n = 120) were divided into the following groups: untreated mice, S. mansoni infected mice, S. mansoni infected mice treated with artemisinin (ART), arachidonic acid (ARA), nifedipine or praziquantel (PZQ). Levels of IL-4 and INF-γ cytokines in the serum samples of treated and untreated mice were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the results were further validated by measuring the mRNA levels IL-4 and INF-γ using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Anti-schistosomiasis drugs ART and ARA increased the levels of Th2 cytokine IL-4 (P < 0.05), whereas PZQ drug decreased the response of IL-4 (P < 0.05). However, nifedipine was found to be ineffective in modulating the response of IL-4 (P > 0.05). As far as Th-1 cytokine IFN γ was concerned, only PZQ increased its levels (P < 0.05), whereas other tested anti-schistosomiasis drugs; ART, ARA, and nifedipine were found to be infective (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicated that anti-schistosomiasis drugs ART, ARA, and PZQ play a role in the modulation of expression of Th2 cytokines. Whereas, only PZQ may play a role in the modulation of Th1 cytokines. These findings provide a scope for the formulation of novel anti-schistosomal drugs as well as in the therapeutic management of patients infected with S. mansoni.

Gastroprotective Effects of Spirulina platensis, Golden Kiwifruit Flesh, and Golden Kiwifruit Peel Extracts Individually or in Combination against Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

This study was conducted to investigate the therapeutic effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Spirulina platensis (SP), golden kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) flesh (KF), and golden kiwifruit peel (KP) individually or in combination (SFP) on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Negative control rats (GI) were orally administered distilled water in parallel with other treatments. The positive control rat group (GII) was administered 30 mg kg⁻¹ indomethacin to induce gastric ulcers. The KF and KF extracts were used individually or together with SP in treating indomethacin-induced gastric ulcerated rat groups. Gastric ulcerated rat’s groups GIII, GIV, GV, GVI, and GVII were orally administered at 30 mg kg⁻¹ rat body weight as total phenolic content (TPC) equivalent from SP, KF, KP, SPF extracts, and Lansoprazole (30 mg kg⁻¹, as reference drug) daily up to 14 days, respectively. The relevant biochemical parameters, antioxidant biomarkers, and histopathological examination were examined. Remarkably, treating rats with SP, KF, KP, and SFP extracts markedly reduced gastric juice and stomach volume expansion induced by indomethacin. The SP significantly retrieved the pH of gastric juice to a regular rate compared to GI. The ulcer index (UI) was significantly attenuated by SP, KF, KP, and SFP administration. The protection index percentage (PI %) was 80.79, 54.51, 66.08, 75.74, and 74.86% in GIII, GIV, GV, GVI, and GVII, respectively. The gastric mucin content was significantly better attenuated by 95.7 in GIII compared to its content in GI. Lansoprazole increased mucin content by 80.3%, which was considerably lower than SP and SFP. SP, KF, KP, SFP, and Lansoprazole improved the reform of gastric mucosal-increased secreted mucus by 95.6, 61.3, 64.8, 103.1, and 80.2% in GIII, GIV, GV, GVI, and GVII, respectively. Interestingly, SFP efficiently increased vit. B₁₂ level by 46.0% compared to other treatments. While Lansoprazole administrating did not significantly attenuate vit. B₁₂ level. The SP and SFP improved iron and Hemoglobin (HB) levels depending on treatment. SP, KF, KP, and SFP significantly decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in blood and stomach tissues. The most potent effect was observed with SP, and SFP was even better than Lansoprazole. Histopathologically, treating rats with SP extract showed a marked reduction of gastric damage and severity changes induced by indomethacin. KP was much better than KF in lessening gastric histopathological damages caused by indomethacin. SFP significantly alleviates gastric histopathological alterations. The lansoprazole-treated group (GVII) greatly relieved the gastric histopathological changes and recorded mild focal necrosis and desquamation of the mucosa in addition to mild oedema in the serosal layer. In conclusion, the presented results proved the antiulcer potential of SP and A. chinensis extracts against an indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats, which may be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammation efficiency. Thus, these data suggested that SP, KF, KP, and SFP extracts as natural and safe alternatives have a gastroprotective potential against indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration. The antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties are probable mechanisms.

ATP2B1 genotypes rs2070759 and rs2681472 polymorphisms and risk of hypertension in Saudi population

This study examined an association of ATP2B1 gene polymorphism and hypertension in the Saudi population. The 246 hypertensive cases and 300 healthy human controls were genotyped. The results showed that genotypes rs.207075 (CA + AA) [p = 0.05; OR: 95% CI, 1.5:(1.0 to 2.4) and p = 0.001, OR: 95% CI, 2.4: (1.5 to 4.0) and rs2681472 (CT + TT) [p = 0.05; OR: 95% CI, 1.5 (1.0 to 2.4) and p = 0.006 OR: 95% CI, 2.0 (1.2 to 3.1) respectively] associated with the risk of hypertension. Cases carrying the recessive models: [(CA + AA)/(CT + TT)] and [(AA)/(TT)] genotypes confer a strong susceptibility risk of hypertension [p = 0.002; OR: (95%CI) 1.8 (1.2 to 2.6) and p = 0.001; OR: (95%CI) 2.6 (1.5 to 4.7) respectively]. However, cases with body-mass-index (BMI)<25, carrying homozygous mutant genotypes [AA, rs2070759, p = 0.007; OR: (95%CI) 2.75(1.37 to 5.5) and (TT, rs2681472, p = 0.05; OR: (95%CI) 1.96 (1.03 to 3.72)] as well as A allele of rs2070759 [p = 0.006; OR: (95%CI) 1.62 (1.16 to 2.25)] and T allele of rs2681472, p = 0.04, 1.43(1.03 to 1.98)] showed a significant association with high risk of hypertension. In short, a significant association between ATP2B1 gene polymorphism and risk of hypertension was noticed. In addition, individuals carrying recessive genotypes have greater risk in developing hypertension than those carrying dominant genotypes. Moreover, cases with high-risk BMI associated with ATP2B1 variants may play a critical role in developing hypertension.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/15257770.2021.1973034 .

Polyphenols as promising biologically active substances for preventing SARS-CoV-2: A review with research evidence and underlying mechanisms

Currently, antiviral drugs and/or vaccines are not yet available to treat or prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this review, we narrated the available data, from credible publishers, regarding the possible role of polyphenols and natural extracts-containing polyphenols in the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and their immune-boosting properties. It was revealed that polyphenols could be considered as promising biologically active substances for the prevention of COVID-19. The underlying potential mechanism behind this action is mostly due to the antiviral activities and the immune-regulation functions of polyphenols against COVID-19-infections. Antivirus polyphenolic-based medications can mitigate SARS-CoV-2-enzymes, which are vital for virus duplication and infection. It was also found that triterpenoid, anthraquinone, flavonoids, and tannins are possible keys to scheming antiviral therapies for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2-proteases. The identified pharmacophore structures of polyphenols could be utilized in the explanation of novel anti-COVID-19 designs. The advantage of using mixtures containing polyphenols is related to the high-safety profile without having major side-effects, but further randomized controlled trials are required in the upcoming studies.

Polyphenols as promising biologically active substances for preventing SARS-CoV-2: A review with research evidence and underlying mechanisms

Currently, antiviral drugs and/or vaccines are not yet available to treat or prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this review, we narrated the available data, from credible publishers, regarding the possible role of polyphenols and natural extracts-containing polyphenols in the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and their immune-boosting properties. It was revealed that polyphenols could be considered as promising biologically active substances for the prevention of COVID-19. The underlying potential mechanism behind this action is mostly due to the antiviral activities and the immune-regulation functions of polyphenols against COVID-19-infections. Antivirus polyphenolic-based medications can mitigate SARS-CoV-2-enzymes, which are vital for virus duplication and infection. It was also found that triterpenoid, anthraquinone, flavonoids, and tannins are possible keys to scheming antiviral therapies for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2-proteases. The identified pharmacophore structures of polyphenols could be utilized in the explanation of novel anti-COVID-19 designs. The advantage of using mixtures containing polyphenols is related to the high-safety profile without having major side-effects, but further randomized controlled trials are required in the upcoming studies.

Polyacylated anthocyanins constructively network with catalytic dyad residues of 3CLpro of 2019-nCoV than monomeric anthocyanins: A structural-relationship activity study with 10 anthocyanins using in-silico approaches

Coronavirus epidemic 2019 (COVID-19), caused by novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), is newly increasing worldwide and elevating global health concerns. Similar to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, the viral key 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease enzyme (3CL^Pro), which controls 2019-nCoV duplications and manages its life cycle, could be pointed as a drug discovery target. Herein, we theoretically studied the binding ability of 10 structurally different anthocyanins with the catalytic dyad residues of 3CL^pro of 2019-nCoV using molecular docking modelling. The results revealed that the polyacylated anthocyanins, including phacelianin, gentiodelphin, cyanodelphin, and tecophilin, were found to authentically bind with the receptor binding site and catalytic dyad (Cys145 and His41) of 2019-nCoV-3CL^pro. Our analyses revealed that the top four hits might serve as potential anti-2019-nCoV leading molecules for further optimization and drug development process to combat COVID-19. This study unleashed that anthocyanins with specific structure could be used as effective anti-COVID-19 natural components.

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Ten structurally different anthocyanins were computed against protease enzyme of 2019-nCoV.

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Phacelianin, gentiodelphin, and cyanodelphin bind with catalytic dyad of 2019-nCoV- protease.

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Phacelianin-2019-nCoV-protease remain stable with no obvious fluctuations.