Effects of Dietary Selenium Yeast Supplementation on Oxidative Biomarkers of the Brain and Blood in Goats

The present study evaluated the effects of dietary selenium yeast (SY) on the brain, CSF, and blood of 30 crossbreed goats (5-6 months of age) of both sexes. After the acclimatization of 2 weeks, they were randomly separated into two groups (n = 15) named C and SY groups. The C group received only a basal diet, while SY received a basal diet along with 0.3 mg/kg/diet of SY (Sel-Plex®) in total 0.035 mg/kg/diet of SY for 10 weeks. Se concentration (µg /g dry weight) in 15 different parts of the goat's brain was accessed, and results showed that the highest concentration was found in the occipital cerebrum (322.0 ± 6.146), whereas the lowest concentration was found in the midbrain (10.33 ± 0.232). Besides, the oxidative biomarkers including GSH (12.13 ± 0.191), GSH-Px (206.7 ± 2.362), GST (23.80 ± 0.279), CAT (14.80 ± 0.279), and SOD (152.5 ± 9.540) were increased in SY as compared to GSH (8.200 ± 0.144), GSH-Px (112.9 ± 1.183), GST (18.93 ± 0.284), CAT (12.53 ± 0.215), and SOD (109.0 ± 1.966) of C. The level of cholesterol was also significantly decreased in the serum of the SY group (84.87 ± 0.960) as compared to C (110.5 ± 0.592). In addition, the cholesterol level in CSF decreased significantly in SY (0.3567 ± 0.016) as compared to C (0.509 ± 0.009). The current research suggests that SY supplementation has improved the brain's antioxidant status, blood biochemistry, and cholesterol levels in both serum and CSF of goats.

Optimization the extraction of anthocyanins from blueberry residue by dual-aqueous phase method and cell damage protection study

Blueberry residue is usually discarded as waste, but has a high anthocyanins content. The extraction method of anthocyanins from blueberry residue with ultrasonic assisted dual-aqueous phase system was optimized. In terms of the principle of central group and design (CCD) experimental design, three-factor and five-level response surface analysis was adopted to optimize the extraction conditions with the extraction rate of anthocyanins. The optimum extraction rate of anthocyanin was 12.372 ± 0.078 mg/g. Anthocyanin extract could protect the pBR322 DNA oxidative damage induced by Fenton reagent, increase the superoxide dismutase(SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) enzyme activities, and decrease the H₂O₂-induced cell apoptosis of human normal liver cell (LO2 cell). The study indicates that the extraction rate of anthocyanin was increased by optimized ultrasonic assisted dual-aqueous phase system. The anthocyanin extract could protect DNA and LO2 cell from oxidative damage.

Cysteamine administration in lambs grazing on mountain pastures: Effects on the body weight, antioxidant capacity, thyroid hormones and growth hormone secretion

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of intravenous injection of cysteamine (CS) on body weight (BW), growth hormone (GH), thyroid hormones (TH) secretion, and antioxidant status of growing lambs grazing on mountain pastures. Fifteen lambs (3-4 months of age) were randomly allocated into three experimental groups which received different dosages of CS: 0, 20, and 50 mg/kg BW^-1 . The CS was injected on the 1st, 10th^, and 20th days of the experiment to the lambs through the jugular vein. Assessment of plasma concentration of GH and TH hormones was carried out at days 0 (a day before the start of CS injections), 15, and 30 of the experiment. The antioxidant enzymes were measured at the end of the experiment. Lambs were weighed at days 0, 10, 20, and 30 of the experiment. The results showed that treatment and time affected the BW, GH, triiodothyronine (T₃ ), and tetraiodothyronine (T₄ ) secretion. The intravenous injection of CS increased the BW of growing lambs (p < 0.01) and increased the plasma concentration of GH, T3, and T4 (p < 0.01). The treatment also enhanced glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px; p < 0.05) and reduced malondialdehyde concentrations (MDA; p < 0.01). Total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level reduced in CS-1 treatment compared to GC and CS-2 treatments (p < 0.01). The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were not affected by CS. In conclusion, intravenous injection of CS improved BW, GH, and TH concentrations and antioxidant capacity in growing lambs grazing on mountain pastures.

Evaluation of the effective dose of amygdalin for the improvement of antioxidant gene expression and suppression of oxidative damage in mice

BACKGROUND

Little is known regarding the toxic and therapeutic doses of amygdalin. Treatment regimens and schedules can vary between humans and animal models, and there have been reports of cyanide toxicity due to amygdalin use.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different doses of amygdalin on antioxidant gene expression and suppression of oxidative damage in mice.

METHODS

Forty adult male mice were divided randomly into four groups (n = 10) as follows and treated orally for two weeks: a control group treated with saline solution, a group treated with amygdalin at 200 mg/kg body weight, a group treated with amygdalin at 100 mg/kg body weight, and a group treated with amygdalin at 50 mg/kg body weight. Liver and testis samples were collected for gene expression, biochemical and histopathological analyses.

RESULTS

The mice treated with medium-dose amygdalin (100 mg/kg) showed upregulated mRNA expression of glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.01) and superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05) and significantly decreased lipid peroxidation (P < 0.05) in hepatic and testicular tissues compared to those in the untreated groups (controls), with mild histopathological effects. The mice treated with high-dose of amygdalin (200 mg/kg) showed downregulated mRNA expression of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase (P < 0.01) and significantly increased lipid peroxidation (P < 0.05) in both hepatic and testicular tissues compared to those in the untreated groups (controls), with an apparent effect at the histopathological level. No effects were observed in the mice treated with low-dose amygdalin (50 mg/kg) at the gene, protein and histopathological level.

CONCLUSION

Low-and medium-dose amygdalin did not induce toxicity in the hepatic and testicular tissues of male mice, unlike high-dose amygdalin, which had a negative effect on oxidative balance in mice. Therefore, amygdalin at a moderate dose may improve oxidative balance in mice.

Protective effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) against diethylnitrosamine-induced renal injury in rats

Context: The kidney plays a central role in detoxification and excretion of toxic metabolites, and therefore, is susceptible to toxicity by xenobiotics.Objective: To investigate the protective effect of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) powder and its essential (volatile) oil against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced renal injury in rats.Materials and methods: Phenolic and flavonoid components were characterised in rosemary powder using HPLC-UV instrument while rosemary essential oil (E.O) was investigated via GC-MS technique. In rat model, rosemary was administrated orally (in diet) for two months. Lipid profile, antioxidant biomarkers, kidney functions and histopathological examinations were assessed.Results: Hesperidin (4878.88 ppm) and ellagic acid (403.57 ppm) are among the major phenolic and flavonoid constituents in rosemary powder. Camphor (18.36%) and α-pinene (12.74%) represent the main E.O active ingredients. Rats treated with rosemary E.O showed a significant elevation in serum HDL (28.28%) accompanied by a decrease in LDL (115.47%). A significant decrease in serum creatinine and urea was also reported (69.72 and 109.89%, respectively). Moreover, serum glutathione peroxidise (GSH-Px) activity has been significantly increased. Kidney histopathological examinations confirmed the protective effect against DEN-induced abnormalities.Conclusion: Rosemary (powder/E.O) was able to reduce or even prevent the severity of diethylnitrosamine-induced renal dysfunction.

Anti-atherosclerosis of oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea on rat model via hypolipemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities together with regulation of endothelial function

BACKGROUND

Rhodiola rosea has been used as a traditional medicine for a long history. Previous studies on oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea (OPCRR) have showed that it exhibited significant free radical-scavenging activities, antioxidant activities in aging mice and lipid lowering effects.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

We hypothesized that OPCRR can improve the atherosclerosis pathological in rats. In the present study, we investigated the effects of OPCRR on the serum lipid profiles, oxidant stress status, inflammatory cytokines and atherosclerotic mediators, and endothelial dysfunction as well as changes in abdominal aorta of atherosclerosis rats.

METHODS

The major components of OPCRR were analyzed by using infrared spectrum and HPLC-ESI-MS. The atherosclerosis rat model was induced by high fat and vitamin D3 feeding for 9 weeks and two OPCRR doses (60 and 120 mg/kg b.w.) were orally administered daily for 9 weeks. The rats were then sacrificed and the blood was collected via abdominal aorta and serum was separated by centrifugated for biochemical analysis. Part of the aorta tissues were excised immediately for histopathological examination and western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared to model group, OPCRR treatments significantly decreased the serum lipid profiles including total cholesterol, total triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and ox-LDL and increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); significant increased serum antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GSH-Px) and decrease of MDA content as a product of lipid peroxidation; lowered serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 and enhanced IL-10 level; increased the serum release of nitric oxide and expression of iNOS in aortic, whereas decreased the expression of eNOS.

CONCLUSION

OPCRR can improve the progress of atherosclerosis by regulation of lipid metabolism, restoring of the antioxidant capacities, and attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemcytokines release, and improving the endothelial dysfunction indicated by nitric oxide system.

Liver Antioxidant Enzyme Activities Increase After Taurine in Ovariectomized Rats

The present study was performed to know the effects of taurine on the lipid level of plasma and liver, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative enzyme activities of liver tissue in ovariectomized (OVX) rats fed cholesterol. Twenty-four female SD rats (200 ± 5 g) were grouped; sham and ovariectomy groups, which were each randomly subgrouped; fed control and control supplemented with taurine (20 g/kg diet). The serum total cholesterol, TG (triglyceride), LDL-cholesterol, athrogenic index, and HDL-cholesterol of taurine diet group were not statistically different. Also the levels of liver total cholesterol, triglyceride were not considerably different in different diets. The lipid peroxidation of malondialdehyde concentration was considerably lower in taurine-feeding group than control-feeding group in ovariectomy group. The superoxide dismutase activity in liver tissue was significantly higher in rats fed taurine than in rats fed control diet in OVX rats. GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase) activity was statistically greater at the rats fed taurine diets compared to rats fed control diet in ovariectomy group. Activity of catalase was higher in taurine group than in control group in ovariectomy group, but it was not significantly different. In conclusion, taurine supplementation was beneficial on antioxidative enzyme activities of liver tissue in ovariectomized rats fed cholesterol.

Modulation of reactive oxygen species via ERK and STAT3 dependent signalling are involved in the response of mesothelioma cells to exemestane

Pleural mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer. The prognosis is extremely poor due to the limited treatment modalities. Uptake of asbestos fibres, the leading cause of mesothelioma, lead to the accumulation of reactive-oxygen-species (ROS). Interestingly, increasing ROS production by using ROS-generating drugs may offer a strategy to selectively trigger cell death. Exemestane, an aromatase inhibitor, has previously shown anti-tumor properties in mesothelioma preclinical models suggesting a role of G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) in the drug response. As exemestane, in addition to blocking estrogen biosynthesis, generates ROS that are able to arrest the growth of breast cancer, we explored the role of ROS, antioxidant defense system, and ROS-induced signalling pathways in mesothelioma cells during exemestane response. Here we report that exemestane treatment reduced cell proliferation with an increase in ROS production and reduction of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in MSTO-H211, Ist-Mes1, Ist-Mes2 and MPP89 exemestane-sensitive mesothelioma cell lines, but not in NCI-H2452 exemestane-insensitive mesothelioma cells. Exemestane induced a significant antioxidant response in NCI-H2452 cells, as highlighted by an increase in γ-glutamylcysteine levels, catalase (Cat), superoxide-dismutase and (SOD) and glutathione-peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation, responsible for drug insensitivity. Conversely, exemestane elevated ROS levels along with increased ERK phosphorylation and a reduction of p-STA3 in exemestane-sensitive mesothelioma cells. ROS generation was the crucial event of exemestane action because ROS inhibitor N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) abrogated p-ERK and p-STAT3 modulation and cellular death. Exemestane also modulates ERK and STAT3 signalling via GPR30. Results indicate an essential role of ROS in the antiproliferative action of exemestane in mesothelioma cells. It is likely that the additional oxidative insults induced by exemestane results in the lethal effects of mesothelioma cells by increasing ROS production. As such, manipulating ROS levels with exemestane seems to be a feasible strategy to selectively kill mesothelioma cells with less toxicity to normal cells by regulating ERK and STAT3 activity.

Antioxidant properties of Ferulago angulata and its hepatoprotective effect against N-nitrosodimethylamine-induced oxidative stress in rats

CONTEXT

Ferulago angulata (Schlecht.) Boiss. (Apiaceae) (FASB) is used to treat liver diseases and has been used both as food and therapeutics by many cultures for thousands of years because of the natural antioxidant compounds.

OBJECTIVE

This study determines antioxidant properties of FASB flowers, the levels of minerals and vitamins, and also, evaluates the hepatoprotective effect of flowers against N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced on liver tissue by assessing antioxidant enzymes and histopathological parameters in Wistar albino rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the study, the rats were divided into six groups of ten. Control, untreated animals were given 0.9% NaCl. Rats were intraperitoneally given NDMA (10 mg/kg) for the first 7 days. FASB methanol extract (150 and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally for 21 days.

RESULTS

α-Tocopherol, retinol, ascorbic acid, total antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid contents of FASB were 0.70 ± 0.13, 0.29 ± 0.03 μg/g, 139.32 ± 7.06 μg/100 g, 171.61 ± 6.05 mM ascorbic acid/g, 90.47 ± 4.11 mg GA/g and 37.39 ± 2.85 mg QE/g. DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was obtained IC₅₀ 67.34 ± 4.14 and 64.87 ± 4.68 μg/mL, respectively.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results of the study indicated that FASB flowers contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, total antioxidant activity, phenolics and flavonoids. Due to the positive effect on significant changes in antioxidant enzymes of liver tissue and histopathological examination, it is thought that the plant could be used as a hepatoprotective.

Ceruloplasmin and antioxidative enzymes in pre-eclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate diagnostic value of ceruloplasmin together with other enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and uric acid) and to evaluate the level of oxidative stress in patients with pre-eclampsia (PE) and compare it with normal pregnancy.

METHODS

In this prospective study, antioxidative markers were investigated in two groups of pregnant women: patients with pre-eclampsia (n = 32) and the healthy pregnant women (n = 60). The following antioxidative markers and enzymes were evaluated: serum ceruloplasmin levels, uric acid, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px).

RESULTS

Serum levels of ceruloplasmin, uric acid and SOD were significantly higher in the PE group compared to the control group. Serum levels of GSH-Px were not significantly higher in the PE group compared to the control group. Serum ceruloplasmin and serum uric acid have the best diagnostic accuracy for oxidative stress in PE and are more accurate compared to antioxidative enzymes -SOD and specially more accurate than GSH-Px.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum ceruloplasmin level may have significant role as the markers of oxidative stress in pre-eclampsia especially when used in combination with uric acid levels.

Effects of hypothermia on skeletal ischemia reperfusion injury in rats

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hypothermia (H) on skeletal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in rats by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), nitric oxide (NO), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in muscle, and measureing immunohistochemical-inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) staining of skeletal muscle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen Wistar Albino rats were divided randomly into three groups (sham, IR, hypothermia) (n=6). The sham group had all procedures without the IR period. The lower right extremity of rats in the IR and hypothermia groups was subjected to 2 hours of ischemia and 22 hours of reperfusion by applying a clamp on the common iliac artery and a rubber-band at the level of the lesser trochanter under general anesthesia. Rats in the hypothermia group underwent 4 hours of hypothermia during the first four hours of reperfusion in addition to a 2-hour ischemia and 22-hour reperfusion period. All rats were sacrificed at end of the IR period using a high dose of anesthesia. The tibialis anterior muscles were preserved. Immunohistochemical iNOS staining was performed, and MDA, SOD, GSH-Px, NO, and IL-1β were measured in the muscle.

RESULTS

The level of MDA, NO, and IL-1β in muscle was increased in the IR group compared with that in the sham group, but these parameters were decreased in the hypothermia group compared with the IR group. The activities of SOD and GSH-Px in muscle were decreased in the IR group; however, these parameters were increased in the hypothermia group. The score and intensity of iNOS staining of skeletal muscle was dens in IR group, mild in hypothermia group, and weak in sham group.

CONCLUSION

The present study has shown that hypothermia reduced IR injury in the skeletal muscle by decreasing the levels of MDA, NO, and IL-1β, and increasing the activities of SOD and GSH-Px. In addition, hypothermia attenuated the score and intensity of iNOS staining.

Avermectin induced liver injury in pigeon: mechanisms of apoptosis and oxidative stress

Extensive use of avermectin (AVM) can result in environment pollution, and it is important to evaluate the potential impact this antibiotic has on ecological systems. Few published literatures have discussed the liver injury mechanisms induced by AVM on birds. In this study, pigeons were exposed to feed containing AVM (0, 20, 40 and 60 mg/kg diet) for 30, 60, 90 days respectively. The results showed that AVM increased the number of apoptosis and the expression level of caspase-3, 8, fas mRNA in the liver of pigeons. Ultrastructural alterations, including mitochondrial damage and chromatin aggregation, become severe with increase exposure dose. Exposure to AVM induced significant changes in antioxidant enzyme {superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)} activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, augmented protein carbonyl (PCO) content and DNA-protein crosslink (DPC) coefficient, in a concentration-dependent manner in the liver of pigeons. Our results show that AVM has toxic effect in pigeon liver, and the mechanism of injury caused by AVM is closely related to apoptosis and oxidative stress.

The impact of cold acclimation and hibernation on antioxidant defenses in the ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus): an update

Any alteration in oxidative metabolism is coupled with a corresponding response by an antioxidant defense (AD) in appropriate subcellular compartments. Seasonal hibernators pass through circannual metabolic adaptations that allow them to either maintain euthermy (cold acclimation) or enter winter torpor with body temperature falling to low values. The present study aimed to investigate the corresponding pattern of AD enzyme protein expressions associated with these strategies in the main tissues involved in whole animal energy homeostasis: brown and white adipose tissues (BAT and WAT, respectively), liver, and skeletal muscle. European ground squirrels (Spermophilus citellus) were exposed to low temperature (4 ± 1 °C) and then divided into two groups: (1) animals fell into torpor (hibernating group) and (2) animals stayed active and euthermic for 1, 3, 7, 12, or 21 days (cold-exposed group). We examined the effects of cold acclimation and hibernation on the tissue-dependent protein expression of four enzymes which catalyze the two-step detoxification of superoxide to water: superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 (SOD 1 and 2), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). The results showed that hibernation induced an increase of AD enzyme protein expressions in BAT and skeletal muscle. However, AD enzyme contents in liver were largely unaffected during torpor. Under these conditions, different WAT depots responded by elevating the amounts of specific enzymes, as follows: SOD 1 in retroperitoneal WAT, GSH-Px in gonadal WAT, and CAT in subcutaneous WAT. Similar perturbations of AD enzymes contents were seen in all tissues during cold acclimation, often in a time-dependent manner. It can be concluded that BAT and muscle AD capacity undergo the most dramatic changes during both cold acclimation and hibernation, while liver is relatively unaffected by either condition. Additionally, this study provides a basis for further metabolic study that will illuminate the causes of these tissue-specific AD responses, particularly the novel finding of distinct responses by different WAT depots in hibernators.

Taxifolin prevents diabetic cardiomyopathy in vivo and in vitro by inhibition of oxidative stress and cell apoptosis

Diabetic cardiomyopathy has been increasingly recognized as an important cause of heart failure in diabetic patients. Excessive oxidative stress has been suggested to play a critical role in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects and mechanisms of taxifolin on cardiac function of streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice and on hyperglycemia-induced apoptosis of H9c2 cardiac myoblasts. In vivo study revealed that taxifolin improved diastolic dysfunction, ameliorated myocardium structure abnormality, inhibited myocyte apoptosis and enhanced endogenous antioxidant enzymes activities. Interestingly, taxifolin reduced angiotensin II level in myocardium, inhibited NADPH oxidase activity, and increased JAK/STAT3 activation. In vitro investigation demonstrated that taxifolin inhibited 33 mM glucoseinduced H9c2 cells apoptosis by decreasing intracellular ROS level. It also inhibited caspase-3 and caspase-9 activation, restored mitochondrial membrane potential, and regulated the expression of proteins related to the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, thus inhibiting the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria into the cytoplasm. In conclusion, taxifolin exerted cardioprotective effects against diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting oxidative stress and cardiac myocyte apoptosis and might be a potential agent in the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Protective effect of Sheng-Nao-Kang decoction on focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sheng-Nao-Kang decoction (SNK), a modified traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been used clinically for the treatment of acute and chronic cerebrovascular related diseases. To evaluate the protective effect of SNK on focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Focal cerebral I/R injury in rats was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2h followed by reperfusion for 24h. Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into six kinds of groups: Sham group; I/R group; SNK-treated groups at doses of 0.7 g/kg, 1.4 g/kg and 2.8 g/kg; and nimodipine (NMP)-treated group. The recoveries of neurological function in rats were estimated by neurological defect scoring and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining after 24h reperfusion. Various biochemical indexes in serum were assayed by colorimetry, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and total nitric oxide synthase (TNOS). Histological structures of the brain in rats were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the caspase-3 protein content in rats.

RESULTS

SNK administration significantly reduced the neurological defect scores and lessened the cerebral infarction volume. The treatment of SNK lowered MDA content, up-regulated SOD and GSH-Px levels, down-regulated iNOS and TNOS levels in serum. Furthermore, histological examination indicated that dense neuropil and largely surviving neurons were seen in SNK-treated rats. SNK administration restrained the expression of caspase-3 positive protein significantly.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that SNK demonstrates a strong and ameliorative effect on cerebral I/R damage in rats. The protective mechanisms of SNK are associated with its properties of anti-apoptosis and anti-oxidation as well as regulation of iNOS and TNOS.

Oxidative stress and tardive dyskinesia: pharmacogenetic evidence

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a serious adverse effect of long-term antipsychotic use. Because of genetic susceptibility for developing TD and because it is difficult to predict and prevent its development prior to or during the early stages of medication, pharmacogenetic research of TD is important. Additionally, these studies enhance our knowledge of the genetic mechanisms underlying abnormal dyskinetic movements, such as Parkinson's disease. However, the pathophysiology of TD remains unclear. The oxidative stress hypothesis of TD is one of the possible pathophysiologic models for TD. Preclinical and clinical studies of the oxidative stress hypothesis of TD indicate that neurotoxic free radical production is likely a consequence of antipsychotic medication and is related to the occurrence of TD. Several studies on TD have focused on examining the genes involved in oxidative stress. Among them, manganese superoxide dismutase gene Ala-9Val polymorphisms show a relatively consistent association with TD susceptibility, although not all studies support this. Numerous pharmacogenetic studies have found a positive relationship between TD and oxidative stress based on genes involved in the antioxidant defense mechanism, dopamine turnover and metabolism, and other antioxidants such as estrogen and melatonin. However, many of the positive findings have not been replicated. We expect that more research will be needed to address these issues.

Free radicals, antioxidant defense systems, and schizophrenia

The etiopathogenic mechanisms of schizophrenia are to date unknown, although several hypotheses have been suggested. Accumulating evidence suggests that excessive free radical production or oxidative stress may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia as evidenced by increased production of reactive oxygen or decreased antioxidant protection in schizophrenic patients. This review aims to summarize the basic molecular mechanisms of free radical metabolism, the impaired antioxidant defense system and membrane pathology in schizophrenia, their interrelationships with the characteristic clinical symptoms and the implications for antipsychotic treatments. In schizophrenia, there is accumulating evidence of altered antioxidant enzyme activities and increased levels of lipid peroxidation, as well as altered levels of plasma antioxidants. Moreover, free radical-mediated abnormalities may contribute to specific aspects of schizophrenic symptomatology and complications of its treatment with antipsychotic drugs, as well as the development of tardive dyskinesia (TD). Finally, the potential therapeutic strategies implicated by the accumulating data on oxidative stress mechanisms for the treatment of schizophrenia are discussed.

Trace elements (copper, zinc, selenium and molybdenum) as markers in oral sub mucous fibrosis and oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral cancer is a major cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide and is prevalent in most areas where tobacco related practices are observed. Essential elements play a role in many biochemical reactions as a micro-source and there is growing evidence that their concentrations are altered on the onset and progress of malignant disease. In this study the levels of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and molybdenum (Mo) in serum of patients with oral sub mucous fibrosis (OSMF) (n = 30) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) (n = 30); were determined and the alterations of these critical parameters were analyzed in comparison with controls (n = 30) to identify predictors amongst these parameters for disease occurrence and progression. The serum Cu and Zn were established using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Serum estimation of Se and Mo was done by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). Data analysis revealed a marked, progressive and significant increase in Cu levels in precancer (OSMF) and cancer (OSCC) groups as compared to the normal group. The level of Zn in serum was slightly elevated in OSMF and OSCC though not statistically significant. Cu/Zn ratio was slightly but not significantly elevated. Serum levels of Se and Mo were significantly decreased in the precancer and cancer groups as compared to the normals.

Antifibrotic activity of galangin, a novel function evaluated in animal liver fibrosis model

This study aimed to investigate the effects of galangin on liver fibrosis in rats induced by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The administration of CCl4 to rats for 12 weeks caused significant increase of hyaluronic acid, laminin, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and decrease of total protein, albumin in serum, while the influences could be reversed by galangin. Galangin markedly reduced hepatic malondialdehyde, hydroxyproline concentration, increased activities of liver superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase compared with CCl4-treated rats. Histological results indicated that galangin alleviated liver damage. In addition, treatment with galangin significantly down-regulated expressions of α-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor β1. These results suggest galangin can inhibit liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 in rats, which was probably associated with its effect on removing oxygen free radicals, decreasing lipid peroxidation, as well as inhibiting hepatic stellate cells activation and proliferation.

Study on anti-Ehrlich ascites tumour effect of Pinellia ternata polysaccharide in vivo

The objectives of the study were to investigate the anti-tumour activity of Pinellia ternata polysaccharide in vivo, and to preliminarily explore the possible mechanism of its antitumour action. Mouse model of Ehrlich ascites tumour (solid tumour) was used to detect the serum SOD, MDA and GSH-Px levels in mouse and to measure the tumour inhibition rate and survival prolongation rate. The results showed that Pinellia ternata polysaccharide had some tumour inhibitory effect. Tumour weight of Pinellia ternata polysaccharide high-dose group was highly significantly different (P<0.01) compared with the model group. Tumour weight between Pinellia ternata polysaccharide medium-dose group and model group also had a significant difference (P<0.05). Moreover, in the Pinellia ternata polysaccharide high-dose group, survival prolongation rate of ascites tumour mice reached 62.23%, and mouse serum SOD, MDA and GSH-Px levels also rose in varying degrees. The study concluded that Pinellia ternata polysaccharide extract had some in vivo anti-tumour effects, which were probably associated with the enhancement of the body's ability to scavenge excess free radicals by improving the body's enzyme activity.

The antidepressant-like effect of bacopaside I: possible involvement of the oxidative stress system and the noradrenergic system

In the present study, the antidepressant-like effect of bacopaside I, a saponin compound present in the Bacopa monniera plant, was evaluated by behavioral and neurochemical methods. Bacopaside I (50, 15 and 5 mg/kg) was given to mice via oral gavage for 7 successive days. The treatment significantly decreased the immobility time in mouse models of despair tests, but it did not influence locomotor activity. Neurochemical assays suggested that treatment by bacopaside I (50, 15 and 5 mg/kg) improved brain antioxidant activity to varying degrees after the behavioral despair test. Bacopaside I (15 and 5 mg/kg) significantly reversed reserpine-induced depressive-like behaviors, including low temperature and ptosis. Conversely, bacopaside I did not affect either brain MAO-A or MAO-B activity after the behavioral despair test in mice. Additionally, 5-hydroxytryptophan (a precursor of 5-serotonin) was not involved in the antidepressant-like effect of bacopaside I. These findings indicated that the antidepressant-like effect of bacopaside I might be related to both antioxidant activation and noradrenergic activation, although the exact mechanism remains to be further elucidated.

The roles of glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and the carbonyl protein in pulmonary and extra pulmonary tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

This study determines the protein carbonyls which cause cellular damage and glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase act as antioxidants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was carried out in different categories of pulmonary and extra pulmonary tuberculosis cases of newly sputum culture positive diagnosed pulmonary categorie I (n=100), extra pulmonary patients categorie (n=35) before and after the DOTS treatment of 6 months, categorie II (n=100), categorie III (n=100) and in normal control subjects (n=100).

RESULTS

The serum protein carbonyl levels were significantly increased in the pulmonary and extra pulmonary tuberculosis patients. The activities of blood glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were found to be significantly decreased in subjects of all the categories of pulmonary and extra pulmonary tuberculosis. A negative correlation between the carbonyl protein content and glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase was seen in pulmonary tuberculosis, p<0.001.

CONCLUSION

Increased antioxidant defense mechanism due to increase oxidative stress in tuberculosis. The changes were reversed after 6 months of antitubercular treatment in patients with a good recovery, but the increase in the oxidative stress was not completely reversed.

Antioxidant effect of a marine oligopeptide preparation from chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) by enzymatic hydrolysis in radiation injured mice

Marine oligopeptide preparation (MOP) obtained from Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) by the method of enzymatic hydrolysis, has been found to possess a radioprotective property through stimulation of the radiation-induced immunosuppression. The current study aimed to further investigate the free radicals scavenging and antioxidant effects of MOP in radiation injured mice. Female ICR mice (6-8 weeks old) were randomly divided into 5 groups, i.e., blank control, irradiation control and MOP (0.225, 0.450 and 1.350 g/kg body weight) plus an irradiation-treated group. The result revealed that MOP significantly increased the white blood cell counts after irradiation, and lessened the radiation-induced oxidative damage. These effects may be caused by augmentation of the activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD and GSH-Px, reduction of the lipid peroxidation (MDA level) in liver, and protection against radiation-induced apoptosis. Therefore, we propose that MOP be used as an ideal antioxidant to alleviate radiation-induced oxidation damage in cancer patients.