Activity Of Antioxidant System Research Articles

Study on the Mechanism of Grafting to Improve the Tolerance of Pepper to Low Temperature

Pepper is a horticultural crop that does not tolerate low temperatures. To investigate how the grafted pepper responds to low temperature stress in the short term, transcriptome analysis was performed on grafted seedlings treated with low temperature for 1 h, 4 h, 12 h and 24 h compared with those treated for 0 h. The results showed that genes related to CAM4, MPK8, RbohD and OXI1 might be related to the response of grafted seedlings to low temperature stress in the short term. To investigate how low temperature tolerant rootstocks can improve the low temperature tolerance of grafted peppers, morphological and physiological indices of self-rooted and grafted seedlings were analyzed under low temperature conditions for different days. The results showed that the degree of wilting, REL and MDA content of grafted seedlings were significantly lower than those of self-rooted seedlings, and the antioxidant enzyme activities were significantly higher than those of self-rooted seedlings under low temperature stress. The results indicated that grafted pepper would activate ROS-related genes in a short period of time after low temperature stress and produce a large amount of ROS in response to the low temperature stress. When ROS accumulated to a certain level, the grafted pepper could increase the enzyme activity of antioxidant system to remove the ROS produced in the body, and help the pepper seedlings adapt to low temperature stress through osmoregulation mechanism, so as to resist the damage caused by low temperature. The results of the study provide ideas for growing pepper in low temperature environment.

Mechanisms Limiting Renal Tissue Protection and Repair in Glomerulonephritis.

Glomerulonephritis are renal disorders resulting from different pathogenic mechanisms (i.e., autoimmunity, complement, inflammatory activation, etc.). Clarifying details of the pathogenic cascade is basic to limit the progression from starting inflammation to degenerative stages. The balance between tissue injury, activation of protective systems and renal tissue repair determines the final outcome. Induction of an oxidative stress is part of glomerular inflammation and activation of protective antioxidant systems has a crucial role in reducing tissue effects. The generation of highly reactive oxygen species can be evaluated in vivo by tracing the inner-layer content of phosphatidyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl serine in cell membranes. Albumin is the major antioxidant in serum and the level of oxidized albumin is another indirect sign of oxidative stress. Studies performed in Gn, specifically in FSGS, showed a high degree of oxidation in most contexts. High levels of circulating anti-SOD2 antibodies, limiting the detoxyfing activity of SOD2, have been detected in autoimmune Gn(lupus nephritis and membranous nephropathy) in association with persistence of proteinuria and worsening of renal function. In renal transplant, high levels of circulating anti-Glutathione S-transferase antibodies have been correlated with chronic antibody rejection and progressive loss of renal function. Annexins, mainly ANXA1 and ANXA2, play a general anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting neutrophil functions. Cytosolic ANXA1 is decreased in apoptotic neutrophils of patients with glomerular polyangitis in association with delayed apoptosis that is considered the mechanism for polyangitis. High circulating levels of anti-ANXA1 and anti-ANXA2 antibodies characterize lupus nephritis implying a reduced anti-inflammatory effect. High circulating levels of antibodies targeting Macrophages (anti-FMNL1) have been detected in Gn in association with proteinuria. They potentially modify the intra-glomerular presence of protective macrophages (M2a, M2c) thus acting on the composition of renal infiltrate and on tissue repair.

Molecular and genetic characterization of the Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca mutant strain with increased resistance to hydrogen peroxide

A whole genome sequencing of natural and mutant producer strains is the best way to analyze the genome and to search for mutations that could cause the acquisition of a number of properties valuable for biotechnological and pharmaceutical industry.The main goal of current research was to identify mutations that had been induced by chemical mutagenesis in the genome of the mutant strain Рseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca B-162/15 resistant to hydrogen peroxide. It would give an opportunity to discover new genes potentially participating in phenazine compounds biosynthesis. Such an approach also makes it possible to identify genes, whose products do not directly participate in the phenazine synthesis, but influence the phenazine detoxification, excretion, and optimization of antioxidant system activity. Most of all, it could help us to discover new unpredicted enzyme systems that might be involved into this process.The genome size of P. chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca B-162/15 was 7109863 b. p. It contained 6493 open reading frames and 66 sequences encoding transport and ribosomal RNA. Comparison of a wild-type strain and B-162/15 mutant genomes revealed 16 mutations, 13 of which were located in coding sequences and 3 were located in intergenic regions. Six mutations led to radical replacements in amino acid sequences of coded proteins (with a Grantham distance of more than 80). We managed to identify four potential gene-candidates, which could influence the phenazine metabolism and provided the ability of mutant strain to superproductivity. They were arginine N-succinyltransferase, phosphoenolpyruvate synthase, iron-contain-ing redox enzyme family protein, membrane-associated proteins in eicosanoid and glutathione metabolism. Three prophage regions were identified, two regions of which were intact and one region was incomplete. The prophage genes, as well as the bacterial genes were inside these regions. We also managed to identify two genes of Agrobacterium tumefaciens inside prophage region 2. It was possible that these regions were introduced into the genome of studied strain by viral transduction.

STRESS-PROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF THE COMPLEX REMEDY IN ACUTE IMMOBILIZATION STRESS

Relevance. The range of medicinal remedies in the traditional Tibetan medicine contains several tens of formulae named bchud len. They are multicomponent remedies of natural origin having a stimulating non-specific effect on the human body. The analysis of such formula under the name ‘Rejuvenating-35’ has been presented in the paper. The complex remedy on the base of this formula was developed. Its composition includes 14 species of the plants and chitosan as a source of mineral substances. Previous phytochemical studies have revealed that the given remedy contains a wide spectrum of biologically active substances, namely triterpene saponins, flavonoids, ether oils, tannins, polysaccharides, etc. The aim of the present work was to evaluate stress-protective activity of the complex remedy in acute restraint stress. Material and methods. Experiments were carried out on white Wistar rats. The acute stress was simulated by immobilization of animals in supine position for 18 hours. The tested remedy was introduced in the form of decoction for 7 days before exposure to stress. Results. It has been established that the course administration of the complex remedy decreases the manifestation of the Selye’s triad signs: 26% decrease of adrenal glands hypertrophy, 45% and 60% decrease in involution of thymus and spleen respectively as compared to the data in the control group of animals. Besides, its administration prevents the development of rough destructions in the stomach mucosa in the form of erosions and linear ulcers. Against the background of the complex remedy administration there was noted twofold decrease of TBA-active products concentra-tion, fourfold increase of superoxide dismutase activity, 30% increase of catalase activity and the content of the reduced glutathione was 30% in-creased as compared to the data in the control. Conclusions. The preventive administration of the complex remedy has stress-protective effect against the background of acute restraint stress. Molecular-cell mechanisms of its anti-stress effect are connected with the inhibition of free-radical oxidation processes and the increased activity of the endogenic antioxidant system.

Physiological and Biochemical Changes in Soybean Plants Caused by Iodine-Selenium Chelates and Phytopathogenic Bacteria

The search for effective and environmentally sound measures to fight against plant diseases caused by phytopathogenic microorganisms is of great importance. It is especially important to investigate alternative measures to protect cultivated plants that combine elements beneficial to human health such as iodine and selenium. Purpose. The study of physiological and biochemical changes in soybean leaves after artificial inoculation of plants with different strains of phytopathogenic bacteria on the background of pre-sowing treatment of seeds with a solution of iodine-selenium (I-Se) chelates. Methods. Soybean plants of the Artemis variety were grown in field conditions. Before sowing, the seeds were treated with a 1% I-Se chelated solution (I — 80 mg/L and Se citrate — 0.05 mg/L). The experimental plants were inoculated with phytopathogenic bacteria from the microbiological collection of the Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology of the National Academy of Sciences, namely Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. glycinea IMВ B-9190, P. agglomerans IMВ B-9185, and P. syringae pv. syringae IMВ B-8531. The contents of chlorophyll-a, b and carotenoids in the leaves were determined by extraction in DMSO followed by spectrophotometry. Catalase activity was determined by the method of titrimetric permanganatometry with a 0.01M solution of KMnO4, the activity to non-specific peroxidases — according to Boyarkin’s method. Evaluation of the photochemical activity of photosynthesis according to the parameters F0, Fv/Fm, and RFd was carried out by the method of induction of chlorophyll fluorescence using a portable device «Floratest». Statistical processing of experimental data was carried out using the built-in functions of the Microsoft Excel program. Results. The increase of peroxidase activity of leaves was revealed after both pre-sowing treatment with 1% I-Se solution of intact plants and inoculation of them with different strains of bacterial pathogens in the following order: I-Se > I-Se+P. syringae pv. syringae 8531 > I-Se+P. agglomerans 9185 > I-Se+P. savastanoi pv. glycinea 9190. The catalase activity of leaves tissues increased only when infected with a specific pathogen P. savastanoi pv. glycinea 9190 (by 20.6%). After artificial inoculation with strains of both specific and facultative bacterial pathogens and the pre-sowing treatment with I-Se, there was observed an increase in the quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv /Fm) and fluorescence in decline index (Rfd). An increase in the content of chlorophyll-a (by 18%), b and carotenoids (by 7%) in the leaves after the pre-sowing treatment with I-Se has been shown. The content of chlorophyll-a in soybean leaves due to pre-sowing treatment with I-Se had the most significant increase after inoculation of P. agglomerans 9185 (20%). Due to the inoculation with a specific pathogen P. savastanoi pv. glycinea 9190 (after the pre-sowing treatment with I-Se), the content of chlorophyll-a tended to decrease, and the content of chlorophyll-b decreased by 7%. The carotenoid content in leaves increased significantly at inoculation of plant with facultative pathogens: P. agglomerans 9185 (by 28.2%) and P. savastanoi pv. syringae 8531 (by 20.7%). The chlorophyll a/b ratio increased in all experimental variants. Conclusions. 1. It was found that pre-sowing seed treatment with 1% I-Se chelated solution results in increasing disease resistance in nonspecific adult soybean plants, including increasing their thermotolerance. This is evidenced by increasing the peroxidase activity of leaves and the content of photosynthetic pigments in natural conditions: chlorophyll-a and carotenoids. 2. Inoculation of soybean plants with a specific pathogen causes an increase in catalase and peroxidase activities in leaves. The significant increase in peroxidase activity after plant inoculation with facultative pathogens was shown. 3. A significant increase in the content of chlorophyll-a in soybean leaves after inoculation with P. agglomerans 9185 and pre-sowing treatment with I-Se was observed. The significant reduction of chlorophyll-b in leaves due to the inoculation of plants with P. savastanoi pv. glycinea 9190 and pre-sowing treatment of the seeds with I-Se was shown. The most significant increase in the content of carotenoids in leaves was detected after inoculation of plants with facultative pathogens — P. agglomerans 9185 and P. syringae pv. syringae 8531. 4. Significant stimulation of both maximum quantum yield of PSII photochemistry (Fv /Fm) and the rate of carbon assimilation (Rfd) due to the pre-sowing seed treatment with I-Se and inoculation of plants with different strains of phytopathogens was observed. It resulted from the activation of antioxidant systems and increased need for assimilates due to changes in plant metabolism.

Simulated Gastric Acid Promotes the Horizontal Transfer of Multidrug Resistance Genes across Bacteria in the Gastrointestinal Tract at Elevated pH Levels.

The assessment of factors that can promote the transmission of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) across bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract is in great demand to understand the occurrence of infections related to antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in humans. However, whether acid-resistant enteric bacteria can promote ARG transmission in gastric fluid under high-pH conditions remains unknown. This study assessed the effects of simulated gastric fluid (SGF) at different pH levels on the RP4 plasmid-mediated conjugative transfer of ARGs. Moreover, transcriptomic analysis, measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, assessment of cell membrane permeability, and real-time quantitative assessment of the expression of key genes were performed to identify the underlying mechanisms. The frequency of conjugative transfer was the highest in SGF at pH 4.5. Antidepressant consumption and certain dietary factors further negatively impacted this situation, with 5.66-fold and 4.26-fold increases in the conjugative transfer frequency being noted upon the addition of sertraline and 10% glucose, respectively, compared with that in the control group without any additives. The induction of ROS generation, the activation of cellular antioxidant systems, increases in cell membrane permeability, and the promotion of adhesive pilus formation were factors potentially contributing to the increased transfer frequency. These findings indicate that conjugative transfer could be enhanced under certain circumstances in SGF at elevated pH levels, thereby facilitating ARG transmission in the gastrointestinal tract. IMPORTANCE The low pH of gastric acid kills unwanted microorganisms, in turn affecting their inhabitation in the intestine. Hence, studies on the factors that influence antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) propagation in the gastrointestinal tract and on the underlying mechanisms are limited. In this study, we constructed a conjugative transfer model in the presence of simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and found that SGF could promote the dissemination of ARGs under high-pH conditions. Furthermore, antidepressant consumption and certain dietary factors could negatively impact this situation. Transcriptomic analysis and a reactive oxygen species assay revealed the overproduction of reactive oxygen species as a potential mechanism by which SGF could promote conjugative transfer. This finding can help provide a comprehensive understanding of the bloom of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the body and create awareness regarding the risk of ARG transmission due to certain diseases or an improper diet and the subsequent decrease in gastric acid levels.

Сезонная динамика содержания компонентов антиокислительной системы хвои сосны обыкновенной (Pinus sylvestris L.) в зоне локального теплового воздействия

The seasonal changes in a period of low temperatures and characteristic correlations of some antioxidant system (AOS) components in pine needles influenced by a gas flare are investigated in this study. The parameters taken are total water content (TWC) in needles, peroxidase activity (AP) and selected elements of the antioxidant system of needles, such as content of carotenoids (Car), ascorbic acid (AA), catechins (Cat) and flavanols (Fl). The needles come from Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris L.), which grow in a gradient of environmental conditions formed in the zone of thermal field of the gas flare impact (at various distances). The gas flare is situated on the territory of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug (UGRA) of Russia. Three hypotheses were subject to verification: 1) the thermal field of the gas flare during the low temperature period affects the water exchange and the AOS state of needles; 2) increase in temperature of the environment in the flare impact zone during the autumn-winter period causes the decrease in amount of moisture in needles, which is a trait of oxidative stress in cells; 3) in the functioning of а needle’s AOS, there are correlations between its components, which values depend on distance from the gas flare and environment created by it. It was found that in the thermal field gradient of the flare, there is neither an additional reduction in TWC in needles compared to the background nor signs of change in the state of AOS corresponding to the oxidative stress in the cells. The greatest impact of the gas flare on characteristics of the physiological state of pine needles is observed in the section closest to the flare. It reveals in the higher values of AP, TWC, Car and decrease in concentration of Fl and AA. The seasonal dynamics of the studied traits values do not correlate with the temperature of the environment. It indicates the indirect effect on the regulation of needle’s AOS activity. The factor and correlation analysis of the data indicate a difference in physiological state of pine needles at different distances from the flare. There is no domination of any processes in the functioning of AOS components. The observed correlations between the studied properties change according to distance to the flare. The most stable is a negative AP relationship with ofter parameters, which rise with the increased distance from the flare. The consistency degree of separate AOS components functioning is maximal in background conditions and decreases when approaching the flare. This fact is explained by the modifying effect of the flare on physiological and biochemical processes of the needle’s adaptation to specific climatic conditions of the environment. For citation: Shavnin S.A., Yusupov I.A., Montile A.A., Golikov D.Yu., Marina N.V. Seasonal Dynamics of Content of Antioxidant System Components in Needles of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Trees Situated in the Local Warming Impact Zone. Lesnoy Zhurnal = Russian Forestry Journal, 2023, no. 2, pp. 38–57. (In Russ.). https://doi.org/10.37482/0536-1036-2023-2-38-57

The Residual Effect of C60 Fullerene on Biomechanical and Biochemical Markers of the Muscle Soleus Fatigue Development in Rats

Muscle fatigue as a defense body mechanism against overload is a result of the products of incomplete oxygen oxidation such as reactive oxygen species. Hence, C60 fullerene as a powerful nanoantioxidant can be used to speed up the muscle recovery process after fatigue. Here, the residual effect of C60 fullerene on the biomechanical and biochemical markers of the development of muscle soleus fatigue in rats for 2 days after 5 days of its application was studied. The known antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was used as a comparison drug. The atomic force microscopy to determine the size distribution of C60 fullerenes in an aqueous solution, the tensiometry of skeletal muscles, and the biochemical analysis of their tissues and rat blood were used in this study. It was found that after the cessation of NAC injections, the value of the integrated muscle power is already slightly different from the control (5%–7%) on the first day, and on the second day, it does not significantly differ from the control. At the same time, after the cessation of C60 fullerene injections, its residual effect was 45%–50% on the first day, and 17%–23% of the control on the second one. A significant difference (more than 25%) between the pro- and antioxidant balance in the studied muscles and blood of rats after the application of C60 fullerene and NAС plays a key role in the long-term residual effect of C60 fullerene. This indicates prolonged kinetics of C60 fullerenes elimination from the body, which contributes to their long-term (at least 2 days) compensatory activation of the endogenous antioxidant system in response to muscle stimulation, which should be considered when developing new therapeutic agents based on these nanoparticles.

Cadmium exposure induces testicular oxidative damage and histopathological changes in the freshwater leech Limnatis nilotica (Savigny, 1822): the protective role of salicylic acid

The present study examined the histopathological changes and some parameters of oxidative stress in the testes of the freshwater leech Limnatis nilotica, following their exposure to 50 µg l−1 of cadmium (Cd). The protective effects of salicylic acid (SA) in mitigating Cd-induced oxidative and histopathological injury were also investigated. We found that Cd exposure caused several histopathological changes in leech testes, such as vacuolisation of spermatogenic cysts which were strongly destroyed and disorganised. Biochemical study showed oxidative stress damage marked by a substantial increase in malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxidase levels as well as disturbance in the activity of the leech antioxidant system. Interestingly, the testes from the Cd and SA leech-exposed group exhibited increased enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant mechanism defenses, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, oxidized glutathione, thiols, and ascorbic acid, in comparison with the testes of leeches exposed to Cd alone. Thus, SA supplementation considerably attenuated the histopathological lesions induced by Cd exposure, thereby restoring the normal appearance of the testes. In summary, the findings of this study indicate that SA treatment ameliorated the testicular histopathological and oxidative stress-induced damages caused by exposure to Cd through enhancing the antioxidant defense system.

Translocator protein alleviates allodynia and improves Schwann cell function against diabetic peripheral neuropathy via activation of the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant system and promoting autophagy.

In diabetes, autophagy and the nuclear factor erythroid-derived-2-like 2 (Nrf2)-dependent antioxidant system are impaired. Translocator protein (TSPO) agonist Ro5-4864 alleviates neuropathic pain, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). However, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the effects of Ro5-4864 on autophagy and the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant system in the sciatic nerves of DPN rats. All rats were randomly assigned to Sham or DPN group. After type 2 diabetes modelling (established by high-fat diet and streptozotocin injection) followed by behavioural tests, established DPN rats were randomly assigned to the DPN group, the Ro (TSPO agonist Ro5-4864) group, the Ro + 3-MA (autophagy inhibitor) group and the Ro + ML385 (Nrf2 inhibitor) group. Behavioural assessments were performed at baseline, on days 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Sciatic nerves were collected on day 28 for immunofluorescence, morphological and western blot analyses. Ro5-4864 alleviated allodynia and increased myelin sheath thickness and myelin protein expression after DPN. Beclin-1 (p < 0.01) and LC3-II/LC3-I ratio (p < 0.01) decreased and p62 (p < 0.01) accumulated in the DPN rats. Ro5-4864 administration increased the Beclin-1 and LC3-II/LC3-I ratio and decreased p62 accumulation. Furthermore, nuclear Nrf2 contents (p < 0.01) and cytoplasmic HO-1 (p < 0.01) and NQO1 (p < 0.01) expressions were significantly inhibited in the DPN rat, which was also improved by Ro5-4864. All the beneficial effects were abrogated by 3-MA or ML385. TSPO exhibited a potent analgesic effect and improved Schwann cell function and regeneration against DPN by activating the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant system and promoting autophagy.

Antioxidant effect of Morus indica L against paraquat-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster

BACKGROUND: Mulberry extracts and active components have numerous good neurological and biological benefits, making them promising candidates in the research for new medications to treat neurological problems. METHODS: In the present study we evaluated the neuroprotective role of mulberry fruit extract against the paraquat (PQ) induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster. After the exposure to PQ, Flies were assayed for climbing activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxide (LPO) content, acetylcholine esterase activities (AChe), and also the antioxidant defense system such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activities (CAT) and glutathione synthetase (GSH) RESULTS: In a negative geotaxis assay, MF pre-treated flies exposed to PQ showed a lower incidence of mortality and enhanced climbing activities of flies when compared to untreated flies exposed to PQ. In addition, when exposed to PQ, untreated flies resulted in a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in oxidative stress markers such as ROS, LPO content and AChe and decreased the antioxidant defense system such as SOD, CAT, and GSH. However, flies pre-treated with MF when exposed to PQ ameliorated oxidative stress markers and by restoring the antioxidant defense system, additionally, the pre-treatment of MF flies also reduced AChe activities. CONCLUSION: The pre-treatment of flies with MF extract has the potential to reduce PQ-induced oxidative stress due to its antioxidative nature and ability to modify the activities of antioxidant defense systems. However, further research is needed to understand the exact mechanism of its activity.

A combination of acidic electrolyzed water with modified atmosphere packaging improves quality of jujube during cold storage by enhancing antioxidant activity.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the quality of jujube stored at 1±0.5°C for 40 days. Jujube was treated with AEW+MAP, AEW, and MAP, respectively, to identify an appropriate preservation method based on the changes of quality indicators, activities of antioxidant enzymes and nonenzymatic antioxidant systems, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and cell membrane permeability. Results showed that the combined treatment maintained higher storage quality of jujube than the other threetreatments. The combined treatment significantly suppressed softening, weight, and color loss and maintained total soluble solid and titratable acidity. Moreover, the combined treatment improved antioxidant capacity showing high levels of nonenzymatic antioxidant systems (ascorbic acid and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity), and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase). These effects remarkably suppressed the increase of MDA level and cell membrane permeability, thereby inhibiting oxidative damage and alleviating quality deterioration. Furthermore, kinetic model indicated that AEW+MAP decreased rate constant of quality deterioration. Principal component analysis also showed that AEW+MAP treatment alleviated quality deterioration, with higher comprehensive score than other treatments. In summary, AEW+MAP was an effective preservation method to maintain storage quality and delay postharvest senescence of jujube. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In this study, a combination of acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been found to have effective preservation effects on jujube. AEW+MAP treatment improved quality of jujube during cold storage mainly by enhancing antioxidant capacity. The combined treatment may provide a new preservation technology for jujube.

Priming Potato Plants with Melatonin Protects Stolon Formation under Delayed Salt Stress by Maintaining the Photochemical Function of Photosystem II, Ionic Homeostasis and Activating the Antioxidant System.

Melatonin is among one of the promising agents able to protect agricultural plants from the adverse action of different stressors, including salinity. We aimed to investigate the effects of melatonin priming (0.1, 1.0 and 10 µM) on salt-stressed potato plants (125 mM NaCl), by studying the growth parameters, photochemical activity of photosystem II, water status, ion content and antioxidant system activity. Melatonin as a pleiotropic signaling molecule was found to decrease the negative effect of salt stress on stolon formation, tissue water content and ion status without a significant effect on the expression of Na+/H+-antiporter genes localized on the vacuolar (NHX1 to NHX3) and plasma membrane (SOS1). Melatonin effectively decreases the accumulation of lipid peroxidation products in potato leaves in the whole range of concentrations studied. A melatonin-induced dose-dependent increase in Fv/Fm together with a decrease in uncontrolled non-photochemical dissipation Y(NO) also indicates decreased oxidative damage. The observed protective ability of melatonin was unlikely due to its influence on antioxidant enzymes, since neither SOD nor peroxidase were activated by melatonin. Melatonin exerted positive effects on the accumulation of water-soluble low-molecular-weight antioxidants, proline and flavonoids, which could aid in decreasing oxidative stress. The most consistent positive effect was observed on the accumulation of carotenoids, which are well-known lipophilic antioxidants playing an important role in the protection of photosynthesis from oxidative damage. Finally, it is possible that melatonin accumulated during pretreatment could exert direct antioxidative effects due to the ROS scavenging activity of melatonin molecules.

Heat-Stress-Induced Changes in Physio-Biochemical Parameters of Mustard Cultivars and Their Role in Heat Stress Tolerance at the Seedling Stage

In the era of global warming, heat stress, particularly at the seedling stage, is a major problem that affects the production and productivity of crops such as mustard that are grown in cooler climates. Nineteen mustard cultivars were exposed to contrasting temperature regimes-20 °C, 30 °C, 40 °C and a variable range of 25-40 °C-and evaluated for changes in physiological and biochemical parameters at the seedling stage to study their role in heat-stress tolerance. Exposure to heat stress showed detrimental effects on seedling growth as revealed by reduced vigor indices, survival percentages, antioxidant activity and proline content. The cultivars were grouped into tolerant, moderately tolerant and susceptible based on the survival percentage and biochemical parameters. All the conventional and three single-zero cultivars were found to be tolerant and moderately tolerant, respectively, while double-zero cultivars were reckoned to be susceptible except for two cultivars. Significant increases in proline content and catalase and peroxidase activities were found associated with thermo-tolerant cultivars. More efficient antioxidant system activity and proline accumulation were noticed in conventional along with three single-zero (PM-21, PM-22, PM-30) and two double-zero (JC-21, JC-33) cultivars that might have provided better protection to them under heat stress than the remaining one single- and nine double-zero cultivars. Tolerant cultivars also resulted in significantly higher values of most of the yield attributing traits. Heat-stress-tolerant cultivars could easily be selected based on the survival percentage, proline and antioxidants at the seedling stage and included as efficient cultivars in breeding programs.

EFFECTS OF THE ESSENTIAL OIL OF DRIED FRUITS OF PIPER GUINEENSE (PIPERACEAE) ON NEUROLOGICAL SYNDROMES ASSOCIATED WITH CEREBRAL MALARIA IN MICE

Background: Cerebral Malaria (CM), is associated with neurological syndromes characterized by cognitive and neurobehavioral abnormalities. Piper guineense Schum and Thonnis known to possess anti-oxidant and central nervous system activities. In this study, effects of essential oil of P. guineense (EOPG) dried fruitson selected behavioral and functional indices in mice with cerebral malaria was evaluated. Method: Mice with confirmed CM, following intraperitoneal inoculation with 1x107 Plasmodium berghei ANKA parasitized blood in 0.2 ml of normal saline, were randomly allocated into 14 groups (n=12), namely, parasitized control, quinine control, EOPG graded doses (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100 and 150mg/kg), and combination of quinine and EOPG graded doses. Quinine was administered at a dose of 20 mg/kg stat, then 10 mg/kg twice daily for next two days, while EOPG was administered once daily for 3 days, beginning from day 5 post inoculation. Non-parasitized (n=12) and parasitized controls were treated with the vehicle (5% Tween 80 in distilled water). Parasitemia, weight, survival and behavioral assessment using SHIRPA protocol were taken daily. Results: EOPG showed anti-plasmodial activity in a dose dependent manner, significantly mitigated mortality rate at higher doses (100 and 150mg/kg), and exhibit dose dependent central nervous system protective effects. Also, except for quinine/6.25 mg/kg EOPG, 100% mortality was observed with combination groups, suggesting a potential to precipitate toxicity. Conclusion: The study concluded that EOPG possesses antimalarial and central nervous system protective effects and may therefore serves to mitigate neurological syndrome in cerebral malaria. Peer Review History: Received: 20 December 2022; Revised: 27 January 2023; Accepted: 28 February, Available online: 15 March 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Jennifer Audu-Peter, University of Jos, Nigeria, drambia44@gmail.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Dr. Rima Benatoui,Laboratory of Applied Neuroendocrinology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Badji Mokhtar University Annaba, Algeria. benattouiryma@gmail.com Dr. Nuray Arı, Ankara University, Turkiye, ari@ankara.edu.tr

A Mini Review on Pancreatin: Prodigious Focus on Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Pancreatin is a natural mixture of digestive enzymes derived from the pancreas of vertebrates. Recent studies have demonstrated that pancreatin has protective effects against various types of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. In this review, we summarize the existing evidence regarding the protective effects of pancreatin on hepatic I/R injury. We discuss the potential mechanisms behind the protective effects of pancreatin, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-fibrotic effects. Moreover, we discuss the potential application of pancreatin as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of I/R injury in the liver. Numerous studies have shown that pancreatin can protect against hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury by targeting multiple pathways and processes involved in I/R injury, including reduction in oxidative stress, suppressing inflammatory response, promoting cell proliferation as well as improvement in apoptosis process. In addition, pancreatin has a protective effect on liver injury by promoting the antioxidant defence system, inhibiting the accumulation of intracellular lipid peroxides, and restoring cellular antioxidant status. Thus, pancreatin may be a promising and effective treatment for hepatic I/R injury, and further research is needed to explore its clinical efficacy. In conclusion, pancreatin is a potential natural remedy that has been studied to potentially reduce hepatic I/R injury. Although further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of pancreatin in clinical settings, it has been suggested that it can act as a natural remedy for hepatic I/R injury due to its multiple mechanisms of action and its ability to restore the balance of oxidative stress. Pancreatin has been studied as a potential natural remedy for hepatic I/R injury due to its ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation, promote antioxidant defence system activity, and restore cellular antioxidant status. Keywords: Pancreatin, hepatic ischemia-reperfusion, antioxidant activity, PI3K-AKT pathway, hepatoprotective strategies.

Recombinant human metallothionein-III alleviates oxidative damage induced by copper and cadmium in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Recombinant human metallothionein III (rh-MT-III) is a genetically engineered product produced by Escherichia coli fermentation technology. Its molecules contain abundant reducing sulfhydryl groups, which possess the ability to bind heavy metal ions. The present study was to evaluate the binding effects of rh-MT-III against copper and cadmium in vitro and to investigate the antioxidant activity of rh-MT-III using Caenorhabditis elegans in vivo. For in vitro experiments, the binding rates of copper and cadmium were 91.4% and 97.3% for rh-MT-III at a dosage of 200 μg/mL at 10h, respectively. For in vivo assays, the oxidative stress induced by copper (CuSO4 , 10μg/mL) and cadmium (CdCl2 , 10μg/mL) was significantly reduced after 72 h of exposure to different doses of rh-MT-III (5-500 μg/mL), indicated by restoring locomotion behavior and growth, and reducing malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels in C. elegans. Moreover, rh-MT-III decreased the deposition of lipofuscin and fat content, which could delay the progression of aging. In addition, rh-MT-III (500 μg/mL) promoted the up-regulation of Mtl-1 and Mtl-2 gene expression in C. elegans, which could enhance the resistance to oxidative stress by increasing the enzymatic activity of antioxidant defense system and scavenging free radicals. The results indicated that supplemental rh-MT-III could effectively protect C. elegans from heavy metal stress, providing an experimental basis for the future application and development of rh-MT-III.

Endogenous intoxication, oxidative stress and antioxidant system in acute lower limb ischemia

Aim. To study features of endogenous intoxication syndrome (EI), oxidative stress (LPO) and antioxidant defence (AOS) in patients with acute lower limb ischemia (LLI).Materials and methods. Some parameters of EI, LPO and AOS were studied. EI syndrome was studied in 86 patients with LLI who underwent complex examination and treatment in 2020-2021 in the Department of Vascular Surgery of the RNCfCS. POL and AOS parameters were studied in 14 patients out of 86. There were 51 (59.3%) men and 35 (40.7%) women, mean age was 56.0±5.8 years. Acute occlusion of the iliofemoral segments was noted in 33 (38.4%) patients, in 32 (37.2%) - the femoral segment, and in 21 (24.4%) - the popliteal and femoral vessels. In all cases, ischemia had a unilateral localization - on the right in 59 (68.6%) cases and on the left in 27 (31.4%) cases. In 52 (58.1%) cases, there were clinical signs of grade II b ischemia, and in 36 (41.9%) cases - grade III A (according to V.S. Saveliev, 1987). The average duration of ischemia was 77.9±28.3 hours.Results and discussion. In all cases of LLI before revascularization, there were signs of acute inflammatory reaction and EI syndrome in the form of increased ESR (42.3±7.1 mm/h), CRP concentration (16.1±4.2 mg/L), fibrinogen (8.5±0.9 g/L) and leukocytosis (12.7±1.5×109/L). Also, all patients had a slight elevation of blood glucose against the background of EI (7.5±1.8 mmol/L), a significant increase of creatinine concentration (128.9±6.1 µmol/L), urea (9.2±0.6 mmol/L) and aminotransferases as compared to normal indices. Results of LPO and AOS indices study in 14 patients showed that in LLI, malondialdehyde (MDA) increases 2.6-fold (3.9±0.1 μmol/L), diene conjugate increases 3.7-fold (0.77±0.04 units a/mL). However, after the elimination of ischemia, there was no significant decrease for 12.2±2.4 days, which confirms the presence of reperfusion syndrome. AOS indices - superoxide dismutase (20,8±1,0 u/l) and catalase (128,9±11,2 μl/l) increased 1,2 and 1,1 times in the examined patients cohort, respectively. Statistically significant associations were established between the following indices: Ischemia level and urea (r=0.89), Ischemia level and white blood cell count (r=-0.82), Hb and Er (r=0.99), Hb and creatinine (r=0.79), Hb and urea (r=0.79), Er and urea (r=0.79), creatinine and Er (r=0.90), ACTV and creatinine (r=-0.77), creatinine and urea (r=0.90).Conclusion. Acute lower limb ischemia is accompanied by ischemia-reperfusion damage manifested by endogenous intoxication syndrome, impaired glucose metabolism and activation of lipoperoxidation processes and antioxidant system. After the elimination of acute ischemia, there is not always a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation and some inflammation parameters. Therefore, prolonged use of antioxidants in the reperfusion period is recommended.

ПОЛИМОРФИЗМЫ ГЕНОВ ФЕРМЕНТОВ АНТИОКСИДАНТНОЙ СИСТЕМЫ SOD2 (C47T, rS4880) И CAT (G262A, rS1001179) В ПАТОГЕНЕЗЕ ХРОНИЧЕСКОГО ГЕПАТИТА С

Introduction. An important component in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis C is the imbalance in oxidant and antioxidant systems. It is known that mutations in genes of antioxidant enzymes can lead to changes in antioxidant potential. Aim. To determine correlations of polymorphic variants of SOD2 (C47T, rs4880), CAT (G262A, rs1001179) superoxide dismutase and catalase genes with antioxidant system activity and features of clinical course of chronic hepatitis C. Material and Methods. The study of single nucleotide variants of genes of antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase SOD2 (C47T) and catalase CAT (G262A) was undertaken in 90 patients with chronic hepatitis C and 64 healthy controls. Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid from the epithelium of the inner surface of the cheek using ‘SNP-screen ‘ diagnostic reagents was analysed. The levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, alanine aminotransferase enzymes and degree of liver fibrosis were determined in the group of chronic hepatitis C patients. Correlations between investigated indexes were studied. Results and discussion. The distribution of alleles and genotypes of single nucleotide variants of catalase CAT (G262A) and superoxide dismutase SOD2 (C47T) genes among healthy subjects and chronic hepatitis C patients (p&gt;0,05) had no significant difference (p&gt;0,05), which testified to absence of influence of the studied gene variants on the risk of hepatitis C virus infection. We revealed statistically significant correlation of single-nucleotide variants of SOD2 (C47T) and CAT (G262A) genes with the development of chronic hepatitis C. Patients having G allele (genotypes GG and GA) of CAT (G262A) single nucleotide variants had low level of catalase enzyme, high level of alanine aminotransferase and high degree of F3-F4 fibrosis (correlation coefficient = -0,88*, p˂0,01). In patients with CC genotype SOD2 (C47T) a strong correlation with serum superoxide dismutase activity, severity of cytolysis syndrome (increased alanine aminotransferase) and degree of liver fibrosis (correlation coefficient = +0,70; p˂0,01) was established. Conclusion. In infection with hepatitis C virus polymorphic variants of SOD2 (C47T) and CAT (G262A) antioxidant system enzyme genes are the risk factors of hepatitis C progression, influencing catalase and superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, cytolysis syndrome development, determining liver fibrosis formation.

Transcription Factor NRF2 in Endothelial Functions

The transcription factor NRF2 is a major regulator of cell antioxidant defense. NRF2 is activated by various stimuli, such as oxidants and electrophiles, to induce transcription of a number of genes whose products are involved in xenobiotic metabolism and contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress. NRF2 is one of the key transcription factors that ensure the endothelial cell function. The endothelium is a cell layer that lines the lumens of blood vessels and performs various homeostatic functions, controlling migration of leukocytes, regulating thrombosis and vascular tone, and playing a role in angiogenesis. Endothelial dysfunction is often accompanied by inflammation and oxidative stress, which may lead to cell aging and cell death by apoptosis, necrosis, or ferroptosis. Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the development of diabetes and common cardiovascular disorders, such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Many pathophysiological processes in the endothelium, including senile changes, are associated with decreased NRF2 activity, leading to inflammatory activation and decreasing activity of the cell antioxidant defense systems. Activation of the NRF2 signaling pathway generally contributes to the resolution of inflammation and oxidative stress. The review focuses on the role that NRF2 plays in basic functions of the endothelium in normal and pathological conditions. Advantages and disadvantages of NRF2 activation as a way to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases are discussed additionally.