Selected acute phase CSF factors in ischemic stroke: findings and prognostic value

Background

Study aimed at investigation of pathogenic role and prognostic value of several selected cerebrospinal fluid acute phase factors that can reflect the severity of ischemic brain damage.

Methods

Ninety five acute ischemic stroke patients were investigated. Ischemic region visualized at the twenty fourth hour by conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Stroke severity evaluated by National Institute Health Stroke Scale. One month outcome of disease was assessed by Barthel Index. Cerebrospinal fluid was taken at the sixth hour of stroke onset. CSF pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were studied by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Nitric Oxide and Lipoperoxide radical were measured by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance. CSF Nitrate levels were detected using the Griess reagent. Statistics performed by SPSS-11.0.

Results

At the sixth hour of stroke onset, cerebrospinal fluid cytokine levels were elevated in patients against controls. Severe stroke patients had increased interleukin-6 content compared to less severe strokes (P < 0.05). Cerebrospinal fluid Electron Paramagnetic Resonance signal of nitric oxide was increased in patients against controls. Severe stroke group had an elevated Electron Paramagnetic Resonance signal of lipoperoxiradical compared to less severe stroke. Cerebrospinal fluid nitrate levels in less severe stroke patients were higher than those for severe stroke and control. Positive correlation was established between the initial interleukin-6 content and ischemic lesion size as well as with National Institute Health Stroke Scale score on the seventh day. Initial interleukin-6 and nitrate levels in cerebrospinal fluid found to be significant for functional outcome of stroke at one month.

Conclusion

According to present study the cerebrospinal fluid contents of interleukin-6 and nitrates seem to be the most reliable prognostic factors in acute phase of ischemic stroke.

Rosmarinic acid-rich extracts of summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.) protect Jurkat T cells against oxidative stress

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis L., Lamiaceae) is used in several regions of the world as a spice and folk medicine. Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of S. hortensis and of its rosmarinic acid-rich phenolic fraction have been demonstrated in animal trials. However, previous studies of rosmarinic acid in cell models have yielded controversial results. In this study, we investigated the effects of summer savory extracts on H2O2-challenged human lymphoblastoid Jurkat T cells. LC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of rosmarinic acid and flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringin in the phenolic fraction. Adding 25 or 50 µM of H2O2 to the cell culture caused oxidative stress, manifested as generation of superoxide and peroxyl radicals, reduced cell viability, G0/G1 arrest, and enhanced apoptosis. This stress was significantly alleviated by the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of S. hortensis and by the partially purified rosmarinic acid fraction. The application of an aqueous S. hortensis extract doubled the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the cells. The production of IL-2 and IL-10 interleukins was stimulated by H2O2 and was further enhanced by the addition of the S. hortensis extract or rosmarinic acid fraction. The H2O2-challenged Jurkat cells may serve as a model for investigating cellular mechanisms of cytoprotective phytonutrient effects.

Constituents of French Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) Flowers Protect Jurkat T-Cells against Oxidative Stress

The flowers of French marigold (Tagetes patula L.) are widely used in folk medicine, in particular for treating inflammation-related disorders. However, cellular mechanisms of this activity demand further investigation. In the present work, we studied the potential of T. patula compounds to alleviate the oxidative stress in hydrogen peroxide-challenged human lymphoblastoid Jurkat T-cells. Crude extracts of marigold flowers and purified fractions containing flavonoids patuletin, quercetagetin, and quercetin and their derivatives, as well as the carotenoid lutein, were brought in contact with Jurkat cells challenged with 25 or 50 μM H2O2. Hydrogen peroxide caused oxidative stress in the cells, manifested as generation of superoxide and peroxyl radicals, reduced viability, arrested cell cycle, and enhanced apoptosis. The stress was alleviated by marigold ingredients that demonstrated high radical-scavenging capacity and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes involved in neutralization of reactive oxygen species. Flavonoid fraction rich in quercetin and quercetagetin showed the highest cytoprotective activity, while patuletin in high dose exerted a cytotoxic effect associated with its anticancer potential. T. patula compounds enhanced the production of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant interleukin-10 (IL-10) in Jurkat cells. Both direct radical-scavenging capacity and stimulation of protective cellular mechanisms can underlay the anti-inflammatory properties of marigold flowers.

Study of blood rheological parameters and NO in coronary artery disease patients with and without collaterals

BACKGROUND

In coronary artery disease (CAD), an alternative way of improvement of blood circulation in the ischemic area of the myocardium is coronary collateral circulation. Our study aimed to investigate the rheological parameters of blood and nitric oxide (NO) content in patients with various degrees of collateral development and the likelihood of the influence of blood fluidity on collateral angiogenesis.

METHODS

We studied patients with stable CAD who underwent elective coronary angiography and a control group with the same mean age. We investigated patients with different degrees of developing collaterals and those without them. In studied patients, the blood plasma viscosity, aggregability, and deformability of erythrocytes, as the main indicators of blood rheology. We recorded content of stable metabolic end products of nitric oxide (NOx).

RESULTS

Results of the studies showed that in the blood of studied patients with CAD erythrocyte aggregation was increased and NO content decreased compared to the control level; NO content was as lower, as less was the number of developed collaterals was recorded.

CONCLUSION

In this work, the role of the aggregation ability of erythrocytes and the endothelial origin of NO in the direct and feedback regulatory mechanism of angiogenesis in patients with CAD are discussed.

Comprehensive study of the rheological status and intensity of oxidative stress during the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus to prevent its complications

BACKGROUND

Prevention of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) requires a modifying effect on the pathological processes inducing the β-cell dysfunction.

OBJECTIVES

the comprehensive study of the violation of rheological parameters in patients with different stages of diabetes and identification of possible links between these alterations with the intensity of the oxidative stress in the patient's body.

METHODS

60 patients with IR, prediabetes, T2DM and healthy volunteers were included. Full range of the rheological parameters of the patients' blood - the indicators of erythrocytes aggregation index (EAI), the relative deformability of the erythrocytes membranes (ERDI), blood plasma viscosity (BPV), and oxidative stress intensity (OSI) were examined.

RESULTS

In patients with insulin resistance (IR), prediabetes, and T2DM the ERDI was statistically significantly lower and BPV - higher compared to control; a significant increase in EAI was detected in the patient group with prediabetes and T2DM compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

The level of rheological disorders in patients increases with the increase of the level of carbohydrate metabolism disorders and intensity of oxidative stress and reaches a maximum during manifested diabetes. Diagnosis of hemorheological disorders and OSI in T2DM can serve as an early marker of target organ damage possibility.

Some Aspects of Role of Nitric Oxide in the Mechanisms of Hypertension (Experimental Study)

Background

Modulation of endothelial function is a therapeutic option to reduce some of the significant complications of hypertension. However, the relationship between endothelial dysfunction reduced nitric oxide (NO) production, and the development of hypertension is not fully understood. To establish a potential pathogenetic link between impaired NO synthesis and hypertension, we investigated the results of competitive interaction of the substrate of NO synthase, L-arginine, and its analog, an non-selective inhibitor of NO synthase, N-nitro-methyl ether-L-arginine (L-NAME), in experimental rats.

Methods

Arterial hypertension was induced in male Wistar rats by intraperitoneal administration of L-NAME (Sigma-Aldrich) for 4 - 7 weeks. During the last 3 weeks, to a separate group of animals simultaneously with L-NAME, L-arginine (Sigma-Aldrich) was administered. In animals monitored for systolic and diastolic pressure, the level of NO in blood samples was determined spectrophotometrically using a Griess reagent.

Results

Administration of L-NAME for 4 - 7 weeks induced an irreversible decrease of NO content in blood, a reversible increase of systolic pressure (SP) and diastolic pressure (DP), and an irreversible increase in pulse pressure (PP). In rats against the background of 7 weeks of intraperitoneal administration of L-NAME, during the last 3 weeks, they were injected with L-arginine, the SP and DP indices returned to their initial values, PP decreased and the NO content in arterial blood increased.

Conclusions

The results of the study indicate the presence of residual endothelial dysfunction (characterized by insufficient NO) after the correction of hypertension. Therefore, in developing the new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of hypertension, it is necessary to include drugs that, in addition to correcting blood pressure, will support normalization, and potentiation of endothelial function and endogenous NO synthesis.

Role of the Free Radicals in Mechanisms of Gallstone Formation: An EPR Study

The mechanism of gallstone formation is not well understood. Abnormal regulation of hepatic cholesterol, bile acid synthesis or esterification, deposition of cholesterol monohydrate crystals and gall bladder dysfunction are thought to be the principal metabolic aberrations that may cause gallstone formation. One plausible mechanism leading to these abnormalities is the role of free radicals, whose presence can be investigated using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR). Surgically removed gall bladder stones were used to obtain purified bilirubin, which was irradiated in vitro with visible light and measured with EPR in the presence of and without oxygen. EPR detected oxidized bilirubin free radical (BFR) (g = 2.003, ΔH = 1.0 mTl) in the gallstones. In vitro exposure of bilirubin to visible light in the presence of oxygen induced BFR formation; its intensity was radiation time dependent and decreased under the influence of β-carotene; irradiation in a vacuum did not generate BFRs. These results indicate the important role of oxidative processes (oxidation of bilirubin) in the gallstone formation. In oxidative stress, bilirubin acting as a second type photosensitizer undergoes rapid oxidation and free radical polymerization that plays an important role in the nucleation and deposition of gallstones.

BASIC RADIATION PROTECTION EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS; GEORGIAN EXPERIENCE AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVE

The level of knowledge provided by the Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) standard curriculum modules in 'Medical physics' and 'Radiation risk estimates' was assessed as was the learning outcome of modern standards elective course in 'Radiation protection'. Two groups of medical students were examined: Group 1: 5 y students, participants in elective course 'Radiobiology and radiogenic health risk' and Group 2: 1-2 y students, participants in winter and summer schools. Students were tested before and after training courses with the same tests questionnaire. The results of the tests showed the necessity for improvement of the educational curriculum. The changes needed are the inclusion of a basic radiobiological course in the curricula of the faculty of medicine and expansion of the medical physics course through a more detailed presentation of medical imaging methods.

Mechanisms of lead-induced poisoning

Lead is a ubiquitous environmental toxin that is capable of causing numerous acute and chronic circulatory, neurological, hematological, gastrointestinal, reproductive and immunological pathologies. The mechanism of lead induced toxicity is not fully understood. The prime targets to lead toxicity are the heme synthesis enzymes, thiol-containing antioxidants and enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase and antioxidant molecules like GSH). The low blood lead levels are sufficient to inhibit the activity of these enzymes and induce generation of reactive oxygen species and intensification oxidative stress. Oxidative stress plays important role in pathogenesis of lead-induced toxicity and pathogenesis of coupled disease. The primary target of lead toxicity is the central nervous system. There are different cellular, intracellular and molecular mechanisms of lead neurotoxicity: such as induction of oxidative stress, intensification of apoptosis of neurocites, interfering with Ca(2+) dependent enzyme like nitric oxide synthase. Population studies have demonstrated a link between lead exposure and subsequent development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The vascular endothelium is now regarded as the main target organ for the toxic effect of lead. Lead affects the vasoactive function of endothelium through the increased production of reactive oxygen species, inactivation of endogenous nitric oxide and downregulation of soluble guanylate cyclase by reactive oxygen species, leading to a limiting nitric oxide availability, impairing nitric oxide signaling. This review summarizes recent findings of the mechanism of the lead-induced toxicity and possibilities of its prevention.

Role of oxidative stress in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerotic disease remains a major cause of death. Documented cases of atherosclerosis in Georgia (Caucasus) have increased by up to 40% and, moreover, the disease is occurring with increased frequency and greater severity in younger adults. Prevention of atherosclerosis as well as detection at early stages of the disease is reviewed. The authors argue that known indicators (serum cholesterol and triglycerides, blood pressure, life style factors) show up too late in the disease when damage is already extensive, still controllable to some extent, but irreversible. Imbalances in the redox status in which excess oxidation occurs or reducing power cannot be maintained (e.g. in inflammation, age, smoking, high lipid content and oxidation) creates a state in which molecular and tissue modifications progress rapidly, leading to development of lesions and full-blown atherogenesis. Oxidative stress do not replace the recognized role of lipids and cholesterol in atherosclerosis, but rather underline that role. Indeed, quantifying redox processes may well elucidate some molecular mechanisms by which lipids mediate atherogenesis.

ANTIOXIDANT, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF GEORGIAN LEGUMINOUS CROPS CULTURES

The aim of the study was to identify the common in Georgia leguminous crops culture with pronounced antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activity. The primary evaluation of the antiinflammatory effects of beans was performed on the experimental models of MDCK and Jurkat cells model systems. Extracts of various varieties of legumes (Beans "Kidney", Meadow beans, Beans Shulavera, Batumian beans, Beans "Udelebi", green peas, peas Shulavera, lentils Lens Culinaris, Soy) were added to the intact or incubated under oxidative stress conditions Jurkat and MDCK cells. Cells' vitality was determined by MTT test. On the basis of analysis of the obtained results, we concluded that: - Meadow beans extract (low doses) revealed cytoprotective effect on the intact and incubated under oxidative stress conditions immune (Jurkat) and epithelial (MDCK) cells. High antioxidant, cytoprotective activity of this extract correlates with high polyphenols content in it. - The extract of Shulavera beans did affect the intact Jurkat and MDCK cells, but showed pronounced cytoprotective activity on these cells incubated under the oxidative stress conditions. High antioxidant, cytoprotective activity of this extract correlates with high content of polyphenols in it. - Low dose of lentils Lens Culinaris extracts revealed cytoprotective activity on the incubated under oxidative stress conditions MDCK cells, but was inactive in case of intact MDCK and incubated in different conditions immune Jurkat cells. The selective antioxidant activity of this extract is related with its other constituent components, but not polyphenols. - Despite high polyphenols content and high antioxidant activity in vivo, Batumian beans revealed moderate cytoprotective activity on intact and incubated under oxidative stress conditions Jurkat cells, suppressive activity on the intact MDCK cells and was inactive in relation to the incubated under oxidative stress conditions MDCK cells. Based on these findings, we can identify extracts with selective protective, anti-inflammatory (Meadow beans, Shulavera beans extracts), cytoprotective (lentil Lens Culinaris extract) and immunomodulatory (Butumian bean extract) properties. Further studies are needed to identify and verify the mechanisms of activity of these Extracts in order to develop effective selective dietary supplements.

Impact of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors on the Course of the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Developed During COVID-19 and Other Severe Respiratory Infections Under Hyperferritinemia Conditions: A Cohort Study

Background

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is not only the entry route of SARS-CoV-2 infection but also triggers a major mechanism of COVID-19 aggravation by promoting a hyperinflammatory state, leading to lung injury, hematological and immunological dysregulation. The impact of ACE2 inhibitors on the course of COVID-19 is still unclear. The effect of ACE2 inhibitors on the course of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) during COVID-19 and other severe respiratory infections in conditions of hyperferritinemia (HF) was investigated.

Methods

A cohort study of critically ill patients with COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases (widespread infection, pneumonia) who underwent treatment in The Critical Care Unit of the First University Clinic (Tbilisi, Georgia) during the 2020-2021 years was conducted. The impact of the ACE2 inhibitors on the course of the ARDS developed during COVID-19 and other severe respiratory infections in conditions of different severity of HF was evaluated.

Results

In COVID-19-infected (I) and uninfected (II) patients with ARDS, ACE2 inhibitors reduce the levels of Ang II, C reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer (I: from 1508.07  ±  26.68 to 48.51  ±  24.35, from 233.92  ±  13.02 to 198.12  ±  11.88, from 7.88  ±  0.47 to 6.28  ±  0.43; II: from 1000.14  ±  149.49 to 46.23  ±  88.21, 226.48  ±  13.81 to 183.52  ±  17.32, from 6.39  ±  0.58 to 5.48  ±  0.69) at moderate HF and Ang II, CRP levels (I: from 1845.89  ±  89.37 to 49.64  ±  51.05, from 209.28  ±  14.41 to 175.37  ±  9.84; II: from 1753.29  ±  65.95 to 49.76  ±  55.74, 287.10  ±  20.50 to 214.71  ±  17.32) at severe HF, reduce interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression at moderate HF (I: from 1977.23  ±  354.66 to 899.36  ±  323.76) and cause reduction of pCO2 index at severe HF (I: from 69.80  ±  3.22 to 60.44  ±  2.20) in COVID-19-infected patients.

Conclusion

Study results show that the ACE2 inhibitors play an important role in the regulation of inflammatory processes in both COVID-19-infected and uninfected patients with ARDS. ACE2 inhibitors decrease immunological disorders, inflammation, and lung alveoli dysfunction, especially in COVID-19-infected patients.

Role of estrogens in pathogenesis of age-related disease in women of menopausal age

The aim of our study was to determine the influence of estrogen on the intensity of oxidative metabolism in women of reproductive and menopausal age. Two groups of women - less than 45 years old (reproductive age) and more than 45 years old (menopausal age) were investigated. In each group we investigated the estradiole, fibrinogen, ALT, oxygen (O(2)(-)) and lipid (LOO·) reactive spesies, NO content, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, GR) activity. It was reviealed nondirect corelation between development of inflammation, hypoxia and estrogen content in the blood of women without genetic predisponce to alterations of lipid metabolism. Subsequently in reproductive age they are developed usually against hypoestrogenomia; however the physiological reduction in estrogen levels during menopause by itself contributes to impairment of metabolism and intensification of inflammation (inflammatory markers CPR, ALT), oxidative stress (O(2)(-), LOO·), hipoxia (HBNO) and all related compititions (increase vascular resistence, disorders in oxygen suplay in tissue and hypoxic compititions of there metabolism). All this may cause, postmenopausal hypertension, hart ischemis disease, impaired hepatic beta-oxidation of fatty acids and hepathosteatosis. In women with genetic predisponce to dislipidemia the estrogen-related factors are less important in pathogenesis of age-related diseases.

Comparative analysis of blood redox parameters according thyroid function of patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases

Little is known about various blood parameters of oxidative stress and antioxidant defence patients with various thyroid functional states in autoimmune diseases (ATD). To clarify influence of thyroid metabolic status on blood redox parameters, we performed a complex estimation of patients with ATD (Graves' disease and chronic autoimmune thyroiditis). 50 patients with ATD have been studied: 16 - with hyperthyroidism; 20 - euthyroidism; and 14 - with hypothyroidism. 10 healthy subjects were selected as a control group. In patients with hyperthyroidism has been only observed inverse correlation between ceruloplasmin (CP) and thyroid volume (r= -0,5177, p<0,001); in patients with euthyroidism only inverse correlation between CP and FT4 (r= -0,4970, p<0,001). But in patients with hypothyroidism inverse correlation between Fe(3+)-transferrin and TSH levels (r= -0,6501, p<0,001) and direct correlation between nitric oxide and FT4 (r= 0,5657, p<0,001), and lipid peroxyradicals and FT4 (r= 0,5620, p<0,001) have been established. Thus, according to obtained results oxidative stress occurs at ATD in spite of thyroid status. Our findings about association of the thyroid function and REDOX-system should be considered in the treatment of ATD.

Analysis of bone marrow from patients in critical condition

The aim of the research was to determine the composition of nitrous oxide and free peroxide-radicals in bone marrow in critical condition. 27 adult patients (20 male and 7 female) in critical condition of various geneses (sepsis, insult, trauma etc.) were examined. All patients were under artificial ventilation of lungs. Morphological study of bone marrow was conducted. The research revealed toxic grains in some bone marrow punctates in critical condition. The neutrophil myelocytes were in norm (8.4+/-1.1). The quantity of metamyelocytes were increased (7.1+/-0.5-N7.7+/-0.7, P>0.5). The quantity of the mature neutrophil with a segmented nucleus were increased (34.7+/-1.4-N-36.4+/-2.1, P>0.5). The quantity of neutrophil nucleus bacillus increased (12.6+/-0.5-N -13.5+/-0.7, P>0.5). The quantity of neutrophilic promyelocyte was in norm (0.96+/-0.1-N-1.4+/-0.2, P>0.1). The quantity of lymphocytes is increased (9.0+/-0.6-N-10+/-0.7, P>0.5). The quantity of monocytes is unchanged (1.3+/-0.1- N-1.3+/-0.2, P>0.5). Basophilic normoblasts are increased in patients with critical conditions (2.0+/-0.4-N-2.1+/-0.5, P>0.5). Policromathohilic normoblasts are significantly decreased. (4.6+/-0.96-N- 2.1+/-0.6, P>0.005) The quantity of oxyphilic normoblasts is increased (6.9+/-0.7-N-9.0+/-0.4, P>0.5). Plasma cells (0.8+/-0.1-N-1.0+/-0.1) and blastic cells (0.6+/-0.04 - N-0.5+/-0.1) are in norm.

[Correlated changes and value of redox-status, nitric oxide and blood supply in experimental malignant tumor growth]

With the use of methods of electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and polarography EPR specter of tumor tissue, content of free nitric oxide and intensity of local hemo circulation in dynamics of sarcoma S-45 growth has been studied. It was stated that the intensity of local hemo circulation (especially in center of tumor tissue) progressively decreases. Sharp decrease of hemo circulation in the central part of the tumor tissue could be explained by drastically reduced concentration of NO, which in turn is related to disorders in electron transport in mitochondrial respiratory chain and probably to conversion of NO into toxic peroxinitrite. The relatively less expressed decrease of local hemo circulation in periphery, despite impaired reheological features of the blood, is explained by increased concentration of NO. It is suggest, that tumor tissue blood supply enhancement increases chemotherapeutic effects via affecting energetic metabolism in mitochondria, redox-status and concentration of free NO.

[The role of oxidative metabolism disturbance in the development of NO-related endothelial dysfunction during chronic hearth failure]

The aim of the work was to establish the oxidative metabolism changes and NO data in Chronic Hearth Failure (HF). 52 patients were included in the investigation, among them 37 patients with CHD and chronic HF (II-IV functional class by NIHA) and 17 without it (control group). For revealing of organism redox-status (ceruloplasmine, Fe3+-transfferine, Mn2+, methemoglobine) the blood paramagnetic centers was studied by electron paramagnetic resonance method. For revealing of blood free NO, the diethyldithiocarbamat (SIGMA) was used. In chronic HF the oxidative process intensification and organism compensate reaction reduction with low Fe3+-transferine levels, increased Mn2++, methaemoglobin and inactivation of erythrocytes membranes adrenergic receptors were revealed. In chronic HF the accumulation of reactive oxygen levels provoke NO transformation in peroxynitrote with following decreases of blood free NO and develop the endothelial dysfunction.

[STUDY OF TOTAL ANTIOOCIDANT STATUS OF THE ORGANISM AS A POSSIBLE BIOMARKER OF DOSE AND EFFECT OF RADIATION EXPOSURE]

In presented article, by means of a comparative analysis of the relationship between the dose-dependent alterations in the organism's redox status, measured by the innovative method developed by us and the standard methods used for assessing catalase and superoxide dismutase activity, and an end radiobiological effect, was attempted the preliminary assessment of the possibility to apply the parameter of blood plasma total antioxidant activity (TAA) as marker of dose and effect of radiation exposure. The experiments were carried out on white mice randomly divided into groups of irradiated and sham irradiated animals. The mice were exposed to a whole body gamma irradiation by source Cesium-137 (137Cs) at doses of 5 and 7 Gr, a dose rate of 1.1 Gr / min. After 5 days of beginning of observation in animals' blood measurements of the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase - SOD and catalase - CAT) and total antioxidant activity by spectrophotometric method were evaluated. Parallel monitoring of animal survival was conducted. At the given stage of the study, applicability of OAA as a marker of dose-dependent alterations in antioxidant status was assessed by the criteria of sensitivity and linearity, and as a marker of the effect the strength of the relation between the antioxidant status indicators and the final radiobiological effect, measured by animal life span in post- radiation period (time-effect) For comparative analysis of the effects of radiation on the levels of antioxidant status indicators (SOD, catalase, OAA), ANOVA methods were used, the nature of the causal relationship between levels of antioxidant status and the life span of laboratory animals was analyzed on the basis of the Cox proportional intensity model with time covariates, preliminary processing of data, basic calculations and visualization of the results were carried out using a mathematical package that " STATISTIC 12". The received results testify to the significantly high sensitivity of the total redox-status indicator (OAA) to the dose of irradiation, which makes it possible with full justification to consider it as a promising candidate of the biological exposure dose marker. In addition, the indicator of the total antioxidant status (OAA) of the body allows predicting the dose dependence of the survival of laboratory mice more accurately than the indices of the activity of individual antioxidant enzymes (catalase and SOD), which makes it possible to consider it as a promising candidate for the biomarker of the dose and the effect of radiation exposure.

[BAYESIAN SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION FOR CYTOGENETIC STUDIES IN A POPULATION]

Bayesian approach for the sample size determination (SSD) and a comparison with classical (Frequentist) approach are presented. Credible interval length estimation-type criterion was applied for the Bayesian SSD estimation in population studies of cytogenetic characteristics. The dependence of the sample size (n) on the length of the 95% Credible interval of the population mean has been estimated in the Gaussian approximation of the distribution functions with known variance and an unknown population mean. The Mean and Variance of the prior function in the Bayesian approach were estimated based on published data and the results of our previous studies. Mathematical analysis and graphical visualization of the results was carried out using the software STATISTICA-12, and WinBugs. It is shown that the Bayesian approach achieves an almost two-fold decrease in sample size and provides the possibility of flexible optimization of the planned procedures at the preliminary stage of the study. Further increase inaccuracy of the results is expected due to a more accurate approximation of asymmetric distributions using gamma functions.

EFFECTS OF IONIZING RADIATION ON COGNITIVE PARAMETERS IN WHITE MICE

The aim of the study was to establish the dependence of memory processes and learning ability in gamma-irradiated white mice on the age and period after irradiation. The 3-month and 1-year-old male mice (Mus musculus) were used in the study. Mice whole-body irradiation was performed at a dose of 5 Gy with 137Cs by using a "Gamma-capsule-2". Spatial learning and formation of memory were estimated in the elevated-type multi-way maze and elevated plus-maze. Experiments were carried out 48 hours and 30 days after irradiation for seven days (five trials each day). The number of errors (deviations from optimal trajectory) and total time for crossing the maze were calculated. The results of the study indicate that ionizing irradiation with a total dose of 5 Gy results in a delayed spatial learning process, causes spatial memory and behavior changes in different age groups of animals - aged mice turned out to be more radio-resistant. Age-related radio-resistance plays an especially major role in the early stage of post-radiation recovery. Though, the late radiation aging effect is especially pronounced in young animals.

Finding possible diagnostic markers for differentiating benign and malignant thyroid tumors on example investigate of rheological properties1

BACKGROUND

The functioning of the thyroid gland is a multi-component process that in some conditions may undergo alterations. The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system that produces the iodine-containing hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Thyroid hormones, control metabolism and energy, growth processes, maturation of tissues and organs, regulation of blood flow, and, therefore, providing vital functions of the body. The role of thyroid hormones in the regulation of blood flow is determined by the intensity of their production and the quantity in the blood. Presumably, in case of oncological and non-oncological diseases of the thyroid gland, the fluidity of the blood, which depends on the rheological properties, will be different.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was investigating rheological characteristics for studying of changes of rheology in patients with thyrotoxicosis, with benign tumor pathology of the thyroid gland, with thyroid cancer and finding possible diagnostic markers for differentiating benign and malignant thyroid tumors.

METHODS

In this regard, we examined, using modern methods accepted in clinical practice, a standard list of recommended diagnostic tests in the group of patients (thyrotoxicosis: n = 25; benign tumor: n = 47), thyroid cancer: n = 35) and control group (n = 15), and with new original methods, parameters that describe the rheological properties of the blood, such as blood rheological index, volume, thickness, surface area of erythrocytes, erythrocyte aggregation index, deformation index, plasma viscosity, hematocrits.

RESULTS

Against the background of relative changes in the studied values, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that erythrocyte aggregation in patients with a benign form and control, as well as in patients with a malignant form and control, differ significantly from each other, in addition, there is a significant difference between aggregation in the group of patients with benign and control aggregation. malignant forms of the disease. It is significant that aggregability differs in patients with thyrotoxicosis and in controls. This indicates that erythrocyte aggregation is particularly informative. The blood rheological index most clearly demonstrated the difference between benign and malignant forms of the disease. Significantly changed compared to control in various forms of thyroid diseases.

CONCLUSION

Additional diagnostic markers for differentiating benign and malignant thyroid tumors may be consideredeerythrocyte aggregation index and blood rheological index.

Possible Markers for Distinguishing benign and Malignant Thyroid Tumors and Predicting Malignancy in Patients with Genetic Predisposition to Cancer

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that mutations in several genes disrupt oxidative metabolism, increasing the risk of developing tumors and their malignancy in patients with a family predisposition to cancer. The purpose of our study was to assess the characteristics of oxidative metabolism in patients with malignant and benign tumor with and without a family history of cancer and identify the marker predicting the likelihood of malignancy.

METHODS

We conducted a study on patients with thyroid pathology (thyrotoxicosis, benign tumor pathology of the thyroid gland, and thyroid cancer) who underwent treatment at LLC "Oncology Scientific Research Center" in Tbilisi, Georgia between 2020-2021.  In patients' blood the thyroid hormones content, the oxidative metabolism parameters (activity of nonenzymatic antioxidant system (TAA), malondialdehyde (MDA) content),  geometrical and rheological (deformability index (EDI), membrane proteins content) characteristics of erythrocytes were determined.

RESULTS

in the patient's blood serum with benign tumor (47 patients) MDA exceeded (p<0.005) and TAA decreased (p<0.005) in comparison to the control level; in patients with thyroid cancer (35 patients), MDA also exceeded (p<0.005), while TAA increased (p<0.005) up to the control level. In patients with benign and malignant tumors, the size of erythrocytes increased compared to the control indicators (p<0.005); in patients with thyroid cancer and benign tumors with a family history of cancer (29 patients) EDI increased (p<0.005), content of GLUT1 in erythrocyte membranes decreased (p<0.005) compared to the control level.

CONCLUSIONS

Alterations in redox metabolism play a crucial role in tumor formation; an imbalance between anti-/pro-oxidant systems may contribute to tumor formation and support its progression into a more malignant state. Thyroid cancer is characterized by a reduction in erythrocyte deformability, related to TSH levels. These alterations are less detectable in patients with benign thyroid tumors with a family history of cancer.

Complex study of Cancer Morbidity and Inflammatory Markers, Presented in the Blood Serum of the Rural Population of Sachkhere District of Georgia

Aim:

The purpose of the study was to compare the morbidity from cancer (expressed as incidence) to the average levels of blood serum inflammatory markers in the population of the Sachkhere region (Georgia).

Methods:

healthy residents of the Sachkhere district were examined. In the blood serum samples of patients, the cytokines (IL-1α, IL-10, TGF-β, IL-12, IL-17, TNF-α, IL-6) and NOx content, as well as the total antioxidant activity of the non-enzymatic system (TAA) were determined; using light microscopy, buccal micronuclei (MnB) of epithelial cells of the oral mucosa, as indicators of chromosomal disorders, were studied.

Results:

Study results show, that cancer incidence in Sareki was statistically significantly higher as in Chorvila and Sairkhe (p=0.002; p=0.004); in Sareki inhabitant’s blood serum levels of the IL-6, NO are increased (p=0.004, p=0.05), and IL-17, TGFβ, and IL-10 levels are decreased (p=0.010, p=0.001, p=0.033) in comparison to data in Chorvila; in Chorvila inhabitants’ indicators of TAA of blood serum and MnB of epithelium cell levels were lower (p=0.001,p=0.045) then in Sairkhe and Sareki.

Conclusion:

The existence of statistically reliable associations between the levels of cancer incidence in the populations of the surveyed villages and the indicators of immune and oxidative status in their virtually healthy subpopulations, with a high degree of persuasiveness, allows us to assume a close causal link between them. Clarifying the reasons for the identified patterns and their significance requires more detailed studies.

Alteration in viability and proliferation activity of mitogen stimulated Jurkat cells

The aim of our study was the establishment of mechanisms of alterations in viability and mitogen stimulated T lymphocyte proliferation activity. In PHA-stimulated Jurkat cells along with increased proliferation level the reduction of mitochondrial dehydrogenases activity (by 20%) and rising number of cells with low mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was revealed. It was concluded that interaction of mitogen (PHA) with T cells receptors (TCR) contributes reduction activity of mitochondrial NADH-dehydrogenase (via phospolipasa C-diacilglicerol (PLC-DAG)-induced PKCs (PKCα, PKCθ) activation pathway). Supression activity of I complex (NADH-dehydrogenase) of mitochondrial respiratory chain and reduction of mitochondrial membrane potencial (ΔΨm) is accompanied with intensification of superoxide radicals production. Superoxide radicals as secondary messengers involve in the induction of T cells viability and proliferative activity regulating genes (CD95L and IL-2) and by this way contribute modification of cell proliferation and apoptosis intensity.

Jurkat cell as an appropriate model for drug investigation

Increasing of number of various therapeutic agents or medications on the world market require the development of rapid and comparatively cheap methodology for screening of these preparations, elucidation their efficacy and mechanisms of action. In article was investigated the methodology based on modeling of human lymphoblastoid T-cell line Jurkat for the modeling and correction of cell homeostasis disregulation, mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, T-lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation conditions, T-cell activity dependence on the alterations of oxidative metabolism, T cell antigen and effector specificity. This methodology gives rapid and comparatively cheap possibility to provide screening of various medical agents, assessment of their immunomodulatory, pro-and antiapoptogenic efficacy and studying mechanism of action of potentially cardioprotective, antyatherogenic medications increasing efficacy of traditional treatment of cardiovascular diseases.