Serum Glutathione Peroxidase Activity Research Articles

Effects of stocking density on growth, stress, and immune responses of juvenile Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) in a recirculating aquaculture system

The present study was to investigate the effects of stocking density on the welfare of juvenile Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) cultured in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for three months. Fish (average weight 760.86 g) were reared in triplicate under three densities: low density (4.80 kg m−2), medium density (8.99 kg m−2), and high density (12.68 kg m−2). The results showed that the 12.68 kg m−2 treatment significantly suppressed fish growth, gene expression of glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and enhanced serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, glucose, lactate levels, and the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) mRNA level (P < 0.05). Additionally, the 12.68 kg m−2 treatment significantly decreased serum glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities, and increased the formation of malondialdehyde (P < 0.05). Serum immunoglobulin M (IgM), lysozyme, alkaline phosphatase, and acid phosphatase activities showed a significant decline in this group (P < 0.05). Transcriptions of immune-related genes, including lysozyme, hepcidin antimicrobial peptide 1 (HAMP1), tumor necrosis factor-ɑ (TNF-ɑ), interleukin 1β, and interleukin 8 significantly reduced in the 12.68 kg m−2 group (P < 0.05). In the somatotropic axis, both the serum values and gene expressions of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) resulted in a down-regulation in the 12.68 kg m−2 group (P < 0.05). Overall, these results suggest that high stocking density could negatively influence the growth, stress, and immune responses of juvenile Chinese sturgeon. Consequently, the appropriate stocking density recommended for culturing juvenile Chinese sturgeon in an RAS is between 4.80 kg m−2 and 8.99 kg m−2.

Requirement of fingerling Indian major carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton) for dietary iron based on growth, whole body composition, haematological parameters, tissue iron concentration and serum antioxidant status

To estimate the requirement of fingerling Labeo rohita (6.4 ± 0.10 cm; 2.23 ± 0.05 g) for dietary iron, the present study was conducted by feeding seven casein-gelatin based isonitrogenous (350 g kg−1 crude protein) and isoenergetic (16.7 kJ g−1 gross energy) diets with different levels of iron (13.2, 65.4, 116.2, 165.6, 218.8, 312.5 and 427.3 mg kg−1 diet). The experimental diets were hand-fed to triplicate group of fish at 08:00, 12:00 and 16:00 h to apparent satiety for 8-week. Live weight gain (LWG; 874%), specific growth rate (4.06% day−1), feed conversion ratio (1.46), protein efficiency ratio (PER; 1.96) and protein gain (PG; 3.27 g fish−1) improved (P < 0.05) with the increase in iron levels from 13.2 to 165.6 mg kg−1 diet. Dietary iron levels significantly influenced whole body moisture, protein and lipid content. Tissue iron concentration and haematological indices such as haematocrit (Hct), haemoglobin (Hb) and red blood cell counts (RBCs) increased linearly (P < 0.05) with increase in levels of iron up to 218.8 mg kg−1 diet and then stabilized. Serum iron concentration, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities responded positively up to 218.8 mg kg−1 dietary iron, whereas malondialdehyde content responded negatively up to the above level of dietary iron. Quadratic regression analysis of growth parameters such as LWG and PG, and broken-line regression analysis of liver iron concentration, Hct, Hb, and serum iron concentration against different dietary iron levels revealed the requirements at 265, 262, 238, 211, 238 and 218 mg kg−1 diet, respectively. Judging from the regression analyses, dietary iron requirement in the range of 211–265 mg kg−1 diet is recommended for fingerling L. rohita for maximizing growth, maintaining normal tissue iron concentration and haematological parameters, and improved antioxidant activities.

Ameliorative Effect of Methanol Extract of Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus) On Oxidative Stress Induced By Lead Poisoning In Red Sokoto Goat

Tiger nut is a small tuberous rhizome with medicinal and antioxidant properties. The present study was conducted to investigate the ameliorative effect of the methanol extract of tiger nut against the oxidative stress induced by lead acetate poisoning in Red Sokoto goat (RSG). Twelve adults Red Sokoto goat (16.50 ± 1.41 to 21.92 ± 0.97 kg) were grouped into four. Group I was administered with equivalent volume of distilled water. Group II was administered with lead acetate (200 mg/kg) only. Group III was administered with methanol extract of tiger nut (METN) (150 mg/kg) and lead acetate (200 mg/kg). Group IV was administered METN (200 mg/kg) only. The serum oxidative stress changes in the different experimental groups were determined by commercial kits. The distilled water group showed no toxic response. The lead acetate (200 mg/kg) group showed decreased activity levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). The co-treatment groups with lead acetate and METN showed an increase in serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, CAT and SOD. Additionally, there was a decreased MDA concentration in the same group. The group administered with METN only showed slight changes in the activities of oxidative stress makers. In conclusion, Oxidative stress biomarkers such as glutathione peroxidases, superoxide dismutase, catalase and malondialdehyde were altered in a manner indicative of oxidative stress following lead acetate exposure and ameliorated to some extent by methanolic extract of tiger nut.

Hyptis verticillata attenuates dyslipidaemia, oxidative stress and hepato-renal damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

AimsChronic hyperglycaemia in diabetes mellitus (DM) increases the production of free radicals which results in oxidative stress and related disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, compromised hepatic and renal functions. Hyptis verticillata reportedly demonstrated glucose lowering activity in previous studies. The present study therefore evaluated the effect of H. verticillata on hyperglycaemia-induced dyslipidaemia, hepatorenal distortions, oxidative stress, as well as calculated indices of cardiovascular function. MethodsWistar rats employed for this study consisted of normoglycaemic and diabetic rats in nine experimental groups. The normoglycaemic and diabetic rats were either treated with metformin (500 mg/kg b.w.), quercetin (10 mg/kg b.w.), or ethanol extract of H. verticillata leaf (250 mg/kg b.w. and 500 mg/kg b.w.) administered orally for 28 days. Key findingsResults revealed that H. verticillata significantly lowered blood glucose level, attenuated dyslipidaemia, decreased atherogenic coefficient, atherogenic and coronary risk indices, and increased cardioprotective index in diabetic rats. Also, H. verticillata significantly decreased serum urea, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and unconjugated bilirubin levels, relative to untreated diabetic rats. Further, H. verticillata increased serum superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities and glutathione level, and decreased malondialdehyde level in diabetic rats in a manner similar to metformin and quercetin. Histopathological investigation of the liver and kidney revealed restored hepatocytes and amelioration of congested interstitial blood vessel of the Bowman's space of the kidneys upon intervention with H. verticillata. SignificanceH. verticillata in addition to its anti-hyperglycaemic activity ameliorates oxidative stress, dyslipidaemia, atherogenicity and hepatorenal lesions in DM.

Dietary zinc requirement of fingerling Indian major carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton)

The current investigation was carried out to estimate the requirement of dietary zinc for fingerling Labeo rohita (6.3 ± 0.09 cm; 2.12 ± 0.08 g) by feeding casein-gelatin based seven isonitrogenous (350 g kg−1 crude protein) and isoenergetic (16.7 kJ g−1 gross energy) diets with incremental levels of zinc (9.52, 19.73, 29.84, 51.42, 71.91, 93.14 and 112.32 mg kg−1 diet). The experimental diets were hand-fed to triplicate group of fish at 08:00, 12:00 and 16:00 h to apparent satiety for 8-week. Significant improvement (P < .05) in live weight gain (LWG), specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, protein gain and feed conversion ratio were evident in fish fed incremental zinc levels up to 51.42 mg kg−1 (Zn4). No significant differences in the body protein and moisture contents were noted. However, body fat content decreased and ash content increased significantly with increment in zinc levels up to 51.42 mg kg−1 diet (Zn4). Zinc concentration in the whole body, liver, scales, vertebrae and serum significantly enhanced (P < .05) with increment in zinc levels up to 51.42 mg kg−1 diet and then levelled off. Fish fed basal diet (Zn1) containing 9.52 mg kg−1 dietary zinc exhibited significantly highest apparent zinc retention compared with other dietary treatment groups. The magnesium and iron contents in the whole body, liver, scales and vertebrae were significantly affected by the increasing levels of dietary zinc, but no change (P > .05) was noted in calcium and phosphorus concentrations. Haematological parameters such as haematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell counts, mean cell volume and mean cell haemoglobin were significantly affected (P < .05) excepting the mean cell haemoglobin concentration. Serum superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities responded positively (P < .05), while malondialdehyde concentration responded negatively up to 51.42 mg kg−1 dietary zinc level. Broken-line regression analysis of LWG, whole body, scales, vertebrae and serum zinc content, and ALP activity against dietary zinc concentrations indicated the break points at 50.90, 51.23, 49.19, 48.52, 52.93 and 47.85 mg kg−1 diet, respectively. Based on the above results of this investigation, inclusion of dietary zinc in the range of 47.85–52.93 mg kg−1 is recommended for L. rohita fingerlings for maintaining optimal growth, haematological parameters, tissue zinc concentration and antioxidant status.

Effect of single- and multi-strain probiotics on broiler breeder performance, immunity and intestinal toll-like receptors expression

ABSTRACT Effects of multi-strain (Lactofeed) and mono-strain (Pediguard) probiotics on broiler breeder performance and expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) were evaluated. Three hundred broiler breeder hens (Ross 308) at the age of 51 weeks were randomly allocated into 1 of 5 dietary treatments with 6 replicates in each in a completely randomized design. The dietary treatments included (1) the basal diet (control), (2) control + 0.1 g/kg Lactofeed, (3) control + 0.1 g/kg Pediguard, (4) control + 0.1 g/kg Lactofeed + 0.1 g/kg Pediguard and (5) control + 0.5 g/kg oxytetracycline antibiotic. Compared to the control group, treatments had no effect on hen-day egg production and body weight of broiler breeders (P > .05). The egg yolk cholesterol concentration of broiler breeders fed probiotic-supplemented diet was decreased (P < .05). There were no differences in the immune response to PHA-P injection, serum glutathione peroxidase activity, malondialdehyde and cholesterol concentration and blood haematology of broiler breeder among different dietary treatments (P > .05) while TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression up-regulated (P < .05). It can be concluded Lactofeed and Pediguard did not improve broiler breeder performance and T-cell-mediated immune response and are not advisable for breeder nutrition.

Palygorskite Supplementation Improves Growth Performance, Oxidative Status, and Intestinal Barrier Function in Cherry Valley Ducks.

The effects of dietary palygorskite (Pal) supplementation on growth performance, oxidative status, and intestinal barrier function in ducks were investigated. In total, 720 one-day-old Cherry Valley ducks were categorized into 4 treatments comprising 6 replicates with 30 ducks each. Ducks were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0, 5, 10, or 20 g/kg Pal for 42 days. Twenty-four ducks (1 male/replicate) were slaughtered at 14 and 42 days and samples were collected for analysis. Pal supplementation quadratically increased weight gain and linearly and quadratically increased feed intake (P<0.05) during the starter period. Pal enhanced serum glutathione peroxidase activity (GSHPx) at 14 (linear and quadratic, P<0.05) and 42 days (linear, P<0.001), and lowered serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content at 14 and 42 days (quadratic, P<0.05). It enhanced 42-day liver superoxide dismutase activity (linear, P=0.003) and GSH-Px activity at 14 (quadratic, P=0.044) and 42 days (linear and quadratic, P<0.001), but decreased 14-day liver MDA content (quadratic, P=0.003). Pal reduced 42-day serum diamine oxidase activity (linear and quadratic, P<0.05) and serum endotoxin content at 14 (linear and quadratic, P<0.05) and 42 days (quadratic, P=0.017). It linearly and quadratically increased jejunal mucosal immunoglobulin (Ig) M at 42 days and IgG at 14 and 42 days, and 42-day ileal mucosal IgG and secretory IgA (P<0.05). Ileal mucosal IgM content was quadratically increased at 14 and 42 days (P<0.05) by Pal. Moreover, Pal enhanced the mRNA expression of 14-day occludin in the jejunal mucosa (quadratic, P=0.033) and that of 42-day zonula occludens-1 in the ileal mucosa (linear, P=0.027). Thus, dietary Pal supplementation exerts beneficial effects through improving growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal barrier function of ducks.

Effects of dietary 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 supplementation on growth performance, immune function and antioxidative capacity in weaned piglets

ABSTRACTThe study evaluated the effects of different doses of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) on growth performance, immune function and antioxidative capacity in piglets. In a 21-d trial, 35 weaned pigs were divided into five groups and diets were supplemented with 5.5 (control), 43.0, 80.5, 118.0 and 155.5 μg 25(OH)D3/kg, respectively. No treatment effects were observed for average daily gain, average daily feed intake and feed to gain ratio. Increasing dietary 25(OH)D3 levels increased serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations linearly (p < 0.01), decreased the frequency of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T cells (p < 0.01), and the serum level of complement component 3 (p < 0.05). Supplementation of 80.5 and 118.0 μg 25(OH)D3/kg enhanced the activity of serum glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.05) and addition of 43.0 μg 25(OH)D3/kg increased the malondialdehyde concentration (p < 0.05). Overall, feeding high-dose 25(OH)D3 to weaned pigs partly improved immune functions and the antioxidative capacity.

Influence of Dietary Copper Methionine Concentrations on Growth Performance, Digestibility of Nutrients, Serum Lipid Profiles, and Immune Defenses in Broilers.

A 42-day experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of dietary copper (Cu) concentrations on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and serum parameters in broilers aged from 1 to 42days. Five hundred forty 1-day-old broilers were randomly assigned into 1 of the following 6 dietary treatments: (1) control (basal diet without supplemental Cu), (2) 15mg/kg supplemental Cu (Cu15), (3) 30mg/kg supplemental Cu (Cu30), (4) 60mg/kg supplemental Cu (Cu60), (5) 120mg/kg supplemental Cu (Cu120), and (6) 240mg/kg supplemental Cu (Cu240), Cu as copper methionine. A 4-day metabolism trial was conducted during the last week of the experiment feeding. The results showed that dietary Cu supplementation increased the average daily gain and the average daily feed intake (P < 0.01). The feed gain ratio, however, was not affected by dietary Cu (P > 0.10). Additionally, dietary Cu supplementation increased the digestibility of fat and energy (P < 0.05). The concentration of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased with dietary Cu supplementation (P < 0.05). The activities of serum Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05), glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.05), and ceruloplasmin (P = 0.09), on the contrary, were increased by Cu addition. For immune indexes, dietary Cu supplementation increased serum IgA and IgM (P < 0.05). In addition, the activities of serum ALT increased with increasing dietary Cu supplementation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, our data suggest that Cu supplementation can increase fat digestibility and promote growth. Additionally, dietary Cu supplementation can reduce serum cholesterol and enhance antioxidant capacity in broilers.

Decreased Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody Titer in Response to Selenium Supplementation in Autoimmune Thyroiditis and the Influence of a Selenoprotein P Gene Polymorphism: A Prospective, Multicenter Study in China.

Background: Recent intervention studies have suggested that selenium (Se) is an effective treatment for autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). However, the exact effect of Se on AIT is unclear as well as the mechanism of action. The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of Se on thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) titers in patients with AIT and to analyze the potential impact of the genetic background on the effect of Se supplementation. Methods: This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Three hundred and sixty-four patients with elevated TPOAb (>300 IU/mL) were recruited and randomized to receive Se yeast 200 μg/day supplementation or placebo. Urinary iodine concentration, serum thyrotropin, free thyroxine, TPOAb, Se, malondialdehyde, and serum glutathione peroxidase activity were measured at baseline and follow-up. Ninety-six patients were genotyped for single nucleotide polymorphism r25191G/A in the selenoprotein P (SEPP1/SELENOP) gene. Results: The median urinary iodine concentration was 182 μg/L. Serum Se increased significantly (p < 0.001) after Se treatment. TPOAb titer decreased by 10.0% at 3 months and by 10.7% at 6 months after Se supplementation, while there was a moderate increase in TPOAb titers over the follow-up period in patients receiving placebo. Glutathione peroxidase activity significantly increased (p < 0.001), and malondialdehyde significantly decreased (p < 0.001) after 6 months of Se supplementation. TPOAb titers decreased to variable extents in patients with different genotypes of single nucleotide polymorphism r25191G/A after Se supplementation. Serum TPOAb titers in patients with the AA genotype showed a more significant decrease (by 46.2%) than those with the GA and GG genotypes (by 14.5 and 9.8% respectively) at 3 months of Se supplementation (p = 0.070). Conclusions: Se supplementation significantly reduced TPOAb titers in patients with AIT, and there may be an important genetic component influencing interindividual differences in the decrease in TPOAb titers.

THE POSSIBLE AMELIORATIVE EFFECT OF VITAMIN C AND ARTEMISIA JUDAICA EXTRACT AGAINST TOXICITY INDUCED BY ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES IN MALE ALBINO RATS

Recently, many biological fields including medicine, personal care products, sunscreens and food additives, also many industrial domains such as ceramics, rubber, paints and alloys, have been extensively applied by Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), as it has the ability to pass through the cell membrane easily and even pass through blood-brain barrier. They are highly reactive and may cause oxidative stress, which induces serious damages in DNA and protein structures forming mutation. So, the current study was designed to assess the possible mitigating effect of Artemisia judaica (Art. j.), vitamin C (vit. C) or their co-administration against ZnO NPs–induced hepatorenal toxicity in male rats. Eighty adult male rats were divided into 8 groups: the 1st (control group) with distilled water for 45 days; the 2nd (twin 80 group) with twin 80 for 45 days; the 3rd (ZnO NPs group), rats were gavaged daily with 10 mg/kg body weight (b.wt) of ZnO NPs for 15 days; the 4th (vit. C group), rats were gavaged daily with 100 mg/kg b.wt of vit. C for 30 days; the 5th (Art. j. group), rats were gavaged daily with 150 mg/kg b.wt of Art. j. extract for 30 days; the 6th (ZnO NPs + vit. C group), rats were gavaged daily with 10 mg/kg b.wt of ZnO NPs for 15 days then gavaged daily with 100 mg/kg b.wt of vit. C for 30 days; the 7th (ZnO NPs + Art. j. group), rats were gavaged daily with 10 mg/kg b.wt of ZnO NPs for 15 days then gavaged daily with 150 mg/kg b.wt of Art. j. for 30 days; the 8th (ZnO NPs + vit. C and Art. j. group), rats were gavaged daily with 10 mg/kg b.wt of ZnO NPs for 15 days then gavaged daily with Art. j. and vit. C co-administration for 30 days. ZnO NPs group showed a high significant increase in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase enzyme (ALP) and gamma glutamyltransferase(GGT) activities, serum total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, urea and uric acid levels, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and malondialdhyde (MDA) levels. While, it showed a high significant decrease in serum albumin, protein and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and catalase (CAT) activities, as well as blood hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and packed cell volume (PCV) as compared with control group. ZnO NPs groups that were treated by vit. C or Art. j. showed partial ameliorative effect against ZnO NPs-induced hepatorenal toxicity with convergent degree, but the efficacy of Art.j. was better than vit. C. ZnO NPs group that was treated by vit. C and Art. j. co-administration showed marked significant curative effects against ZnO NPs- induced hepatorenal toxicity.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Background: Oxidative stress has become the focus of interest in most biomedical disciplines and many types of clinical research. Increasing evidence from research on several diseases shows that oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of diabetes and many other diseases. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the status of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes related parameters in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. Patients and Methods: A total of 110 patients (70 patients newly diagnosed diabetic and 40 healthy) were studied by evaluating the level of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA]), nitric oxide (NO), fasting blood sugar (FBS), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were also evaluated. Results: The FBS and HbA1c levels were significantly higher in diabetic patients compared to those of healthy participants. Higher levels of MDA and NO were observed in the diabetic group compared to those in the healthy participants. A significant decrease was observed in serum SOD, CAT, and GPx activities in the serum of T1DM patients by 16.7%, 72.8%, and 15.3%, respectively (P &lt; 0.05), as compared with their activities in the controls. On the basis of sex, both male and female patients showed a significant reduction in antioxidant levels as compared to their respective controls. Conclusions: These results indicated that oxidative status and antioxidant levels were affected in T1DM. The results suggested that the biomarkers such as the plasma levels of lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in early diagnosed diabetics can be used to monitor the developing complications of the diabetes.

Effects of stocking density on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, antioxidant resistance, and intestinal microflora of blunt snout bream ( Megalobrama amblycephala ) juveniles

In this study, effects of stocking density on the growth performance and physiological responses of blunt snout bream, Megalobrama amblycephala juveniles were evaluated. The fish (average body weight, 25.76 ± 2.25 g) were randomly stocked at densities of 30F (30 fish/m³), 60F, 90F and 120F in 12 cages (1 m × 1 m × 1 m) in a concrete pond, with three cages for each density, for a period of 6 weeks. The higher stocking densities had a negative effect on individual growth performance. The results indicated that serum cortisol, triglyceride, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and malondialdehyde activities; and Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Pseudomonas and Vibrio numbers in the intestinal microflora increased significantly as the stocking density increased. In contrast, the viscerosomatic index, hepatosomatic index survival rate; serum glucose, total cholesterol, lipase, protease, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities; and Clostridium, Bacteroides, Lactococcus, Lactobacillus and Bacillus numbers in the intestinal microflora decreased significantly. The 90F and 120F groups showed obvious enlargement of the lamina propria and goblet cell damage, indicating that the gut showed inflammatory responses. The specific growth rate and weight gain rate increased significantly as the stocking density increased from 30 to 60 fish/m³, but decreased significantly when the stocking density was over 60 fish/m³.

Effects of Different Selenium Sources on Laying Performance, Egg Selenium Concentration, and Antioxidant Capacity in Laying Hens.

Supplementation of selenium (Se) is a common practice in the poultry industry via sodium selenite (SS) and selenium yeast (SY), while the effects of nano-selenium (NS) on laying hens are poorly known. This study aimed to compare the effects of NS, SS, and SY on productivity; selenium (Se) deposition in eggs; and antioxidant capacity in laying hens. A total of 288 30-week-old Brown Hy-line laying hens were randomly assigned into four dietary treatments, which included corn-soybean meal basal diet (Con) without Se sources and basal diets supplemented with 0.3mg Se/kg as SS, SY, or NS, respectively. The results exhibited that Se-supplemented treatments achieved greater egg production, egg weight, and daily egg mass, also better feed conversion ratio than Con group (p < 0.05). Se supplementation significant increased egg Se concentration and decreased the egg Se deposition efficiency (p <0.05), while SY or NS supplementation had higher Se deposition efficiency than SS group at 35days (p < 0.05). Moreover, serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity increased in SS or NS group compared to Con group (p < 0.05). The glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX-4) mRNA levels in liver were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in SS or SY group than in NS group, and mRNA levels of the methionine (Met) metabolism gene glycine N-methyltranserfase (GNMT) were markedly upregulated (p < 0.05) in SY group compared to SS or NS group. Taken together, the results revealed Se from SY is deposited into eggs more efficiently than Se from NS or SS, probably via enhancing the route of Met metabolism. Meanwhile, it might be concluded that SS or SY supplementation directly regulated GSH-Px activity via enhancing GPx4 level, whereas NS via GPx1, thus affecting body oxidation and development.

Effects of three probiotic Bacillus on growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, antioxidative capacity, serum immunity, and biochemical parameters in broilers.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three Bacillus strains on growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, antioxidative capacity, serum immunity, and biochemical parameters in broilers. A total of 360 one-day-old Ross 308 chicks were randomly allocated into four groups with three replicates per group (n=30). The control group was fed a basal diet, whereas the other groups fed basal diet supplemented with either Bacillussubtilis natto or Bacilluslicheniformis or Bacilluscereus (108 cfu/kg) for 42days, respectively. The results revealed that the probiotic-treated groups markedly improved final body weight, daily weight gain, and the activities of trypsin, amylase, lipase and total protease (p<0.05). Moreover, chicks fed probiotics had higher serum glutathione peroxidase activity and O2 - level, as well as hepatic catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, whereas malondialdehyde levels in serum and liver were reduced (p<0.05). The significant increased IgA (p<0.05) was observed in the probiotics groups as compared to the control group. In addition, dietary administration of probiotic strain markedly reduced the levels of serum ammonia, uric acid, total cholesterol, and triglyceride. Taken together, these three probiotic Bacillus showed beneficial effects on chickens with minor strain specificity.

Effect of Valsartan and Folic Acid on Vascular Reactivity, Leptin Hormone and Some Biochemical Parameters in Fat Diet-Induced Obese Male Rats

AbstractBackground: The development of a chronic low-grade inflammatory state has been shown to play a central role in the development of metabolic complications associated with obesity.Aim of Study: The aim was to determine the impact of oral administration of valsartan and folic acid to fat diet-induced obese male rats on the vascular reactivity & on the serum levels of leptin and some inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.Material and Methods: Fifty male albino rats of local strain were randomized into five equal groups: Control, obese, valsartan-treated obese, folic acid-treated obese and combined valsartan and folic acid-treated obese groups. Obesity was induced by feeding high fat diet and treatment was done for indicated groups for 16 weeks. Thereafter, weight and length were measured, and rats were subjected for rat tail-measurement of Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP). Then, fasting retro-orbital blood samples were collected for measuring serum Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TGs), Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), High Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (HDL-C), Malondialdehyde (MDA), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and leptin levels, as well as serum Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activities, andurinary nitrite/nitrate (NOx) level. Rats were tested for Vascular Reactivity to Acetylcholine (VRACh) and sodium nitroprusside (VRSNP) by Doppler flowmeter. Lastly, rats were sacrificed and abdominal visceral fats were resected and weighed.Results: High fat diet resulted in marked impairment of all the measured parameters, except VRSNP. Treatment of obese rats with valsartan resulted in improvement of BMI, adipose tissue mass, TC, LDL, CRP, leptin, NOx, MDA, SBP and VRACh; however, total body weight, TGs, HDL-C and antioxidant enzyme activities were not affected. Folic acid administration to obese rats improves all serum lipid param-eters, increased GPx and SOD activities, and showed a better effect than valsartan on NOx, leptin andVRACh, but less effect on CRP. On the other hand, folic acid had no effect on the anthropometric parameters and SBP of obese rats. Com-bined treatment showed a reduction in total body weight, and a significant better improvement of all the measured parame-ters, except MDA, than those of isolated valsartan or folic acid treatment, with normalization of MBI, TGs, LDL-C, NOx and VRACh.Conclusion: Both valsartan and folic acid, when admin-istered separately, ameliorate the detrimental effects of fat diet-induced obesity in rats. Combined valsartan and folic acid prophylactic treatment of fat diet-induced obese rats has an additive beneficial effect on the associated dyslipidemia, inflammatory state, oxidative stress, leptin hormone level, and endothelial dysfunction that is possibly achieved by different mechanisms of action.

Effects of dietary inclusion of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) meal on growth performance, feed utilization, body composition, plasma biochemical indices, selected immune parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities of mandarin fish (Siniperca scherzeri) juveniles

A feeding trial was designed to examine the potential of yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, as a locally available renewable protein source in juvenile mandarin fish feed. Triplicate groups of fish (Initial mean body weight ± S E.; 20.8 ± 0.05 g) were assigned to each of four isonitrogenous (50%) and isocaloric (22 MJ kg−1) practical diets containing graded level of a full fat yellow mealworm meal (WM) (0, 10, 20, and 30%) at the expense of fish meal (FM) (designated as WM0, WM10, WM20, and WM30). Each group of 20 fish were housed in a 60-L aquarium connected to a closed freshwater recirculating system, with a delivery rate of about 2 L min−1, and fed twice daily to apparent satiation for a period of 8 weeks. The results revealed that fish growth rates and efficiency of nutrient utilization tended to increase with increasing dietary WM levels from 0 to 20%, and then declined as dietary WM level further increased from 20 to 30%, with the most pronounced effect observed in those of fish fed the WM20 diet. Plasma total cholesterol contents were significantly reduced in fish fed the diet with the highest WM level (WM30). Fish carcass composition did not show any definite pattern of change due to feed composition. Fillets of juvenile mandarin fish fed diets containing WM in place of FM had much higher levels of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids and lower levels of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) than those fed WM-free control diet (WM0). Serum lysozyme and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were found to be significantly higher for fish fed the WM30 diet compared with fish fed WM0 diet. Overall, the efficacy of WM as alternative dietary protein source for juvenile mandarin fish has been proved not only in relation to weight gain and efficiency of feed utilization, but also the view point of health-promoting effects in fish.

Effects of Different Forms and Levels of Selenomethionine on Productive Performance and Antioxidant Status of Broiler Breeders and Its Offspring

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different selenomethionine (SM) forms and levels on productive performance and antioxidant status of broiler breeders and its offspring. Four hundred eighty 48-week-old Lingnan Yellow broiler breeders were randomly divided into four groups, provided basal diet with 0.15 or 0.30mg/kg Se coming from two SM forms of DL-SM and L-SM. The experiment included a 4-week pretreatment period and an 8-week trial period. During the trial period, eggs were incubated once a week under standard conditions. The broiler breeders were slaughtered after the trial period. At the same time, 15 1-day-old chicks were selected at random per replicate and killed. The results showed that different SM forms and levels had no significant differences in average egg weight, feed intake, and feed-to-egg ration. The DL-SM group in contrast to the L-SM group induced a notable elevation of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in serum (P< 0.01) and liver (P< 0.05), and the 0.15mg/kg group had higher GPx activity than 0.30mg/kg in serum (P < 0.01) and pancreas (P < 0.05). Different SM forms showed no significant differences in total antioxidant capability (T-AOC). Diets with 0.15mg/kg Se exhibited a higher level of T-AOC in serum (P < 0.01) and some tissues. Besides, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in serum, liver, and kidney significantly decreased due to the supplementation of DL-SM. Supplemental 0.15mg/kg Se reduced MDA concentrations in kidney and muscle. The offspring of broiler breeders fed on DL-SM had higher GPx activity in liver and kidney than L-SM treatment. Supplemental 0.15mg/kg Se also improved GPx activity in kidney and muscle and T-AOC in kidney of 1-day-old chicks. In summary, our study demonstrated that compared with L-SM, DL-SM was more effective for enhancing the antioxidant status of broiler breeders and its offspring. Moreover, the recommended level of Se supplementation was 0.15mg/kg Se in Lingnan Yellow broiler breeder diets.

Effects of curcumin and melatonin on bone formation in orthopedically expanded suture in rats: A biochemical, histological and immunohistochemical study.

To investigate the effects of curcumin (CUR) and melatonin (MEL) on new bone formation following rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in rats. For this study, 24 12-week-old adult male Wistar albino rats from the Animal Laboratory at Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine, were used. The rats were randomly divided into the following 3 groups (n=8 each): only expansion (OE), expansion plus MEL (MEL) and expansion plus CUR (CUR). CUR and MEL were given to the rats during the study period. After the sacrifice of the animals, biochemical, histological and immunohistochemical examinations were performed. Serum bone alkaline phosphatase levels in the MEL group were statistically (P=.007) higher than in the OE group. Serum glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities in the CUR and MEL groups were significantly higher than in the OE group (P=.007 and P=.021, respectively). Inflammatory cell infiltration, new bone formation and capillary intensity parameters did not demonstrate statistically significant differences between the groups (P=.865, P=.067 and P=.055, respectively). The immunohistochemical findings revealed that IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α H scores showed considerable differences between the groups (all P<.001). The highest IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α H scores were found in the OE groups rather than in the other groups (P<.001). CUR and MEL treatments may be effective in accelerating new bone formation and beneficial in preventing relapse following the RME procedures.

Ameliorative effects of Antrodia cinnamomea polysaccharides against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression related to Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in BALB/c mice

The objective of this study was to determine the ameliorative effects of Antrodia cinnamomea polysaccharide (ACPS) against cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression in BALB/c mice. Four weeks of oral ACPS treatment successfully improved bodyweight and organ indexes and enhanced the function of T cells and the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells. CTX administration has been shown to notably decrease immunoglobulin A, G and M, interleukin 2, 6 and 12, and interferon α and γ levels in serum and in the spleen, and ACPS abolished these effects. Furthermore, ACPS effectively increased the total antioxidant capacity by stimulating superoxidase dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activity in serum and in the spleen and by inhibiting the increases in reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels. Notably, ACPS induced the activation of erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) related to down-regulating Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 expression, which leads to enhanced levels of downstream antioxidative enzymes, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase 2, and catalase in the spleen and thymus. Therefore, the protective effects of ACPS on CTX-induced immunosuppression in mice may be the result of a reduction in oxidative stress and involved in the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Our study suggests that ACPS has potential for development as an effective anti-immunosuppressive agent.