Alanine Aminotransferase Activity Research Articles

The effects of probiotic-based additives on aflatoxin intoxication in Piaractus mesopotamicus: a study of liver histology and metabolic performance.

Mycotoxins, produced by fungi, can contaminate fish food and harm their health. Probiotics enhance immune balance and primarily function in the animal intestine. This study aimed to assess aflatoxin's impact on Piaractus mesopotamicus and explore probiotic-based additive (PBA) benefits in mitigating these effects, focusing on antioxidant activity, biochemical indices, and hepatic histopathology. Two experiments were conducted using P. mesopotamicus fry. The first experimental assay tested various levels of aflatoxin B1 (0.0, 25.0, 50.0, 100.0, 200.0, and 400.0µg kg-1) over a 10-day period. The second experimental assay examined the efficacy of the probiotic (supplemented at 0.20%) in diets with different levels of aflatoxin B1 (0.0, 25.0, and 400.0µg kg-1) for 15 days. At the end of each assay, the fish underwent a 24-hour fasting period, and the survival rate was recorded. Six liver specimens from each treatment group were randomly selected for metabolic indicator assays, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and albumin. Additionally, histopathological analysis was performed on six specimens. The initial study discovered that inclusion rates above 25.0µg kg-1 resulted in decreased activity of AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALB (albumin), CAT (catalase), and SOD (superoxide dismutase), accompanied by liver histopathological lesions. In the second study, the inclusion of PBA in diets contaminated with AFB1 improved the activity of AST and ALT up to 25.0µg kg-1 of AFB1, with no histopathological lesions observed. The study demonstrated the hepatoprotective effects of PBA in diets contaminated with AFB1. The enzyme activity and hepatic histopathology were maintained, indicating a reduction in damage caused by high concentrations of AFB1 (400.0µg kg-1 of AFB1). The adverse effects of AFB1 on biochemical and histopathological parameters were observed from 25.0µg kg-1 onwards. Notably, PBA supplementation enhanced enzymatic activity at a concentration of 25µg kg-1 of AFB1 and mitigated the effects at 400.0µg kg-1 of AFB1. The use of PBAs in pacu diets is highly recommended as they effectively neutralize the toxic effects of AFB1 when added to diets containing 25.0µg kg-1 AFB1. Dietary inclusion of aflatoxin B1 at a concentration of 25.0µg kg-1 adversely affects the liver of Piaractus mesopotamicus (Pacu). However, the addition of a probiotic-based additive (PBA) to the diets containing this concentration of aflatoxin neutralized its toxic effects. Therefore, the study recommends the use of PBAs in Pacu diets to mitigate the adverse effects of aflatoxin contamination.

Assessing the Impact of Annona muricata Aqueous Extract on Liver Enzymes in Wister Rats Exposed to Paracetamol Over Dose

Aims: This study examines the effect of the aqueous leaf extract of Annona Muricata on liver enzymes in wister rats using the spectrophotometric method. Methodology: 20 Wister rats were divided into groups A, B, C, and D, of 5 rats each, housed, fed, and the experimental groups administered treatments orally in distilled water (10 ml/kg) by means of orogastric cannula for 14 days. 500g of the plant powder was submerged for 72 hours 1500ml of distilled water. The sample was taken with a rotating evaporator, an electrical evaporator extraction apparatus. With water heated to 45°C, the solvent was removed. Before use, a paste-like sample was made and kept in a refrigerator at 4 degrees Celsius. The animals in group A were used as the control. The animals in group B were given feeds + 20mg of paracetamol, and the animals in group C were administered 100mg of paracetamol + silymarin. In comparison, the ones in group D were given 150mg of paracetamol + Annona muricata extracts. The animals were then sacrificed 48 hours following the final dose. A blood sample was collected, allowed to coagulate, and then the serum was separated, while the liver was excised and utilized for biochemical analyses. Results: The alanine aminotransferase activities (ul) recorded 9.0±2.71, 14.67±1.5, 13.50±0.58, 15.75±2.50 for animals in groups A, B, C, and D respectively with corresponding activities of aspartate aminotransferase (ul) of 7.25±0.50, 27.33±4.04, 20.00±2.71, 17.25±1.71. Results revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in the activities of ALT and AST of all the treated groups. Thus, the aqueous leaf extract of Annona muricata could be hepato-protective. The silymarin could also be hepatoprotective, but it is less effective than Annona muricata. The untreated group, B, showed elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, confirming paracetamol's hepatotoxic activity. Conclusion: The ethanol leaf extract of Annona muricata decreased the activities of liver enzymes in male wister rats, suggesting its hepato-protective tendency. It also does not encourage body weight loss.

Evaluation of Some Liver Enzymes in HIV/AIDS Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy in University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Background: Hepatoxicity is a major complication and side effect of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Unfortunately, such studies in this area of evaluating the adverse drug reaction of ART on the liver hepatocytes are only few in number in Nigeria.Objective: To determine the levels of some liver enzymes in HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and as well evaluate their impact on liver hepatocytes.Methods: This is a hospital-based case-control study. A total of 153 subjects were recruited in the study, and they were divided into three groups: the control group (which consist of apparently healthy subjects), the study group 1 (consist of HIV positive subject not on ART), and study group 2 (consist of HIV/AIDS patients on ART). The liver enzymes Alanine amino Transferase (ALT), Asparate amino Transfarase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) were determined using enzyme linked spectrophotometric assay methods, according to the manufacturer’s specifications.Results: The mean standard deviation (SD) of ALT and AST activity of the study group 1 showed significant differences when compared with that of the control group P<0.001, but the ALP has no significant differences P>0.05. In Study group 2, (HIV/AIDS patients on ART) showed significant differences of P<0.001 in ALT, AST and ALP.Conclusion: Some liver enzymes were elevated in subjects on antiretroviral therapy; this elevation could be due to hepatotoxicity of the (ART) used by the HIV/AIDS patients on the liver hepatocytes.International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 08 No. 02 Apr’24 Page: 126-131

Beta-Cyfluthrin-Induced Hepatic Alterations in Zebrafish: Enzymatic Profiles and Oxidative Stress Responses

Beta-Cyfluthrin is a widely used pesticide belonging to class of synthetic pyrethroids which affects the central and peripheral nervous systems. The current study investigates the impact of beta-Cyfluthrin on the biochemical parameters of liver of zebrafish (Danio sp.). Adult zebrafish were exposed to concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L of beta-Cyfluthrin for acute (96 hours) and chronic (21 days) exposure periods respectively (n=20). It was observed that exposure to beta-Cyfluthrin led to variations in biochemical markers in both acute and chronic exposure groups. Liver function tests revealed significant elevated activity of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) at exposure concentrations of 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L of beta-Cyfluthrin in both acute and chronic groups, while acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity decreased significantly at concentrations of 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L in the chronic group. Lipid peroxidation exhibited a concentration and time-dependent increase with significant difference at 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L in both acute and chronic groups, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (PER) levels declined significantly in both acute and chronic exposure groups at exposure concentrations of 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L for SOD and 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L for PER. Catalase (CAT) initially increased significantly in acute groups of 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L but decreased in chronic ones. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) levels exhibited a significant increase at lower concentrations of 0.25 µg/L but a decrease at higher concentrations, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 µg/L of beta-Cyfluthrin. The level of significance were considered at p<0.05 and p<0.01. This research suggests that exposure to beta-Cyfluthrin leads to hepatic damage in adult zebrafish. This indicates a potential risk to non-target aquatic fauna, through runoff where beta-Cyfluthrin is used as an agricultural pesticide.

Effect of Swimming Free 50 Meters for Males on Calcium Levels and Some Enzymes of Thyroid and Parathyroid Gland

Study purpose. This study aimed to investigate the effect of swimming free 50 meters on calcium levels and activities of some key enzymes involved in calcium metabolism in males. Materials and Methods. Eleven healthy male adults were selected to participate in the study. They freely swam 50 meters daily for four weeks. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used to evaluate the effect of the swimming intervention on markers of calcium metabolism. Measurements were taken for participants before and after swimming. Fasting blood samples were collected before and after swimming to measure serum calcium levels as well as the activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), 5'-nucleotidase, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and parathormone (PTH) by standard enzymatic methods. Results. After four weeks of swimming free 50 meters daily, serum calcium levels showed a statistically significant increase compared to baseline (p < 0.05). The activities of ALP, AST, and ALT were significantly higher post-intervention (p < 0.05 for all enzymes). There were no significant changes in 5'-nucleotidase, TSH, and PTH activities. Conclusions. The results indicate that swimming free 50 meters daily for four weeks increases serum calcium levels, likely through enhanced bone resorption as suggested by the elevated activities of ALP, AST, and ALT. However, there were no significant effects on thyroid and parathyroid functions as assessed by TSH and PTH.

The effect and mechanism of combined exposure of MC-LR and NaNO2 on liver lipid metabolism

Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and sodium nitrite (NaNO2) co-exist in the environment and are hepatotoxic. The liver has the function of lipid metabolism, but the impacts and mechanisms of MC-LR and NaNO2 on liver lipid metabolism are unclear. Therefore, we established a chronic exposure model of Balb/c mice and used LO2 cells for in vitro verification to investigate the effects and mechanisms of liver lipid metabolism caused by MC-LR and NaNO2. The results showed that after 6 months of exposure to MC-LR and NaNO2, the lipid droplets content was increased, and the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were raised in the liver (P < 0.05). Moreover, MC-LR and NaNO2 synergistically induced hepatic oxidative stress by decreasing total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) levels and increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) content levels. In addition, the levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and P-AMPK was decreased and Keap1 was increased in the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. The key factors of lipid metabolism, SREBP-1c, FASN and ACC, were up-regulated in the liver. More importantly, there was a combined effect on lipid deposition of MC-LR and NaNO2 co-exposure. In vitro experiments, MC-LR and NaNO2-induced lipid deposition and changes in lipid metabolism-related changes were mitigated after activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway by the Nrf2 activator tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). Additionally, TBHQ alleviated the rise of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LO2 cells induced by MC-LR and NaNO2. Overall, our findings indicated that MC-LR and NaNO2 can cause abnormal liver lipid metabolism, and the combined effects were observed after MC-LR and NaNO2 co-exposure. The Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway may be a potential target for prevention and control of liver toxicity caused by MC-LR and NaNO2.

Biomarker responses of Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis, Lamarck 1819) regarding marine mucilage in the Sea of Marmara

It has been proposed that marine mucilage intensifies the biological effects of chemical pollutants and can increase their bioaccumulation in seafood. Indeed, in 2021, mucilage caused a major environmental disaster in the Sea of Marmara. Limited resources on the possible effects of marine mucilage on sustainable food security have increased the importance of this study. The aim of this study is to investigate the biochemical effects of mucilage in wild and cultured mussels, a bioindicator species collected from four different regions [Istanbul Strait (S1) and Canakkale Strait (S2), Bandirma (S3), Gelibolu (S4)] during the 2021 fishing season in the Sea of Marmara. The levels of reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation, activities of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, activities of biomarker enzymes like alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase activities were determined. Our findings demonstrated that mucilage had an impact on cellular oxidative state and compromised the lipid cell membranes in the mantle tissues of Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis, Lamarck 1819). It was found that there is a high positive relationship between seawater temperatures and bioparameters in S2 and S3 regions, except for GSH level. This study puts forward that in the presence of marine mucilage the biological responses and the state of health of mussels are negatively affected. Parameters which exhibit this kind of response may be used as biomarkers of exposure to marine mucilage in wild and culture mussel populations. Environmental disasters such as marine mucilage naturally affect food security by putting the sustainability of these species at risk.

Long-term thermal stress induces hepatic injury and alters the thermotolerance response in Hong Kong catfish (Clarias fuscus)

Global climate change has a significant impact on fish survival and the aquaculture industry. Even highly adaptable organisms like Siluriformes fish are susceptible to these effects. This study investigates the consequences of extreme high temperature on Hong Kong catfish (Clarias fuscus), a species known for its long-term habitation in tropical and subtropical regions. In this study, C. fuscus were cultivated for 90 days at high temperature (HT, 34 °C) and normal temperature (NT, 26 °C), followed by subjecting the two groups to high temperature stress (34 °C) and temperature recovery (26 °C). The hepatic histology, biochemical, and transcriptomic characteristics of the species were examined before acute high temperature stress (NT-C, HT-C), after acute high temperature stress (NT-T, HT-T), and after temperature recovery (NT-R, HT-R). The histological analysis revealed that long-term heat stress damaged the liver tissue of C. fuscus. Furthermore, significant damage was observed in the liver tissues of the NT group under acute high temperature stress, while no further damage was observed in the HT group. The biochemical analysis showed that 90 days of heat stress altered the body's immune and oxidative balance, resulting in an increase in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities, and a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Upon acute heat stress, the liver function of the NT group was disordered and unable to produce enough total-bilirubin (T-BIL), while the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity of the HT group was more susceptible to being affected. Long-term heat stress led to significant changes in gene expression, with the NT group showing three times more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified in the liver compared to the HT group under acute heat stress conditions. Analysis of DEG enrichment during the same treatment period in both groups revealed significant differences in amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism pathways. These results suggest that long-term heat stress caused liver tissue damage in C. fuscus, altering immune and oxidative balance, enzyme activity sensitivity, as well as the body's response to acute heat stress pathways and intensity. This study lays the groundwork for future investigations into fish adaptability to sudden temperature changes and aquaculture strategies to mitigate heat stress in fish facing extreme temperatures.

Effects of a blend of acidifiers added continuously to the drinking water of nursery piglets

Context Adding organic and inorganic acids to the drinking water is a potential alternative to improve production results in nursery piglets, and a strategy for reducing the use of antimicrobials. Aims To assess the effects of adding a blend of organic and inorganic acids to drinking water on the oxireduction potential (ORP) of water, and growth performance, biochemical, antioxidant and blood gas profiles, intestinal morphometry, biometry of organs, and intestinal microbiome of nursery piglets. Methods Experiment involved 1080 female piglets assessed over 30 days (Landrace × Large White, weaned at 26 days of age, weighing 6.8 ± 0.29 kg), randomly assigned to the following three treatments: (1) piglets received drinking water of natural pH of 7.39 (pH7.39), (2) piglets received drinking water of pH of 5.31 (pH5.31), and (3) piglets received drinking water of pH of 3.40 (pH3.40), with eight replicates and 45 piglets/stall. Piglets had ad libitum access to diet and water throughout the experiment, and received different diets in each phase. Key results Receiving drinking water of pH3.40 promoted a higher ORP, and a lower total water consumption was observed in Starter II piglets with pH5.31. There was no treatment effect on the performance, but mortality was lower in starter piglets in the pH3.40 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment had lower blood alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, differing from the result obtained for total cholesterol concentrations. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower concentration of total protein than did piglets in the pH7.39 treatment. Piglets in the pH3.40 treatment had higher weights of empty stomach, spleen, and liver with gallbladder than did those in the pH7.39 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower relative abundance of the Escherichia–Shigella genus and bacteria of Enterobacteriaceae family than did those in the pH5.31 treatment. Conclusions Acidification of drinking water to pH3.40 for nursery piglets can be used to partially increase the ORP of the water, and promote a greater weight of organs with metabolic and immune functions, while decreasing mortality. In addition, acidification of drinking water does not compromise performance or intestinal histology, but improves the profile of the intestinal microbiome in piglets. Implications This research has provided new information on the effects of acidifiers in the drinking water for nursery piglets and has shown their potential use for bolstering general health.

Evaluation of interleukin 4, high sensitivity C-reactive protein and activity of alanine transaminase among cooks in Nnewi

Evaluation of interleukin 4, high sensitivity C-reactive protein and activity of alanine transaminase among cooks in Nnewi

Effects of luteolin supplementation on growth, histology, antioxidant capacity, non−specific immunity and intestinal microbiota of the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

To investigate the effects of luteolin (LUT) on the growth, antioxidant capacity, non−specific immunity and intestinal microbiota of the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), 300 individual P. clarkii (4.17 ± 0.50g average body weight and 50.19 ± 1.40mm average body length) were randomly divided into five groups and fed with LUT doses of 0mg/kg (CG), 50mg/kg (LG50), 100mg/kg (LG100), 300mg/kg (LG300), and 500mg/kg (LG500) for 8 weeks, respectively. Firstly, the results demonstrated that survival rates were significantly higher in all LUT added groups compared to the CG group, with no significant differences in hepatosomatic index, feed coefficient and muscle components. Secondly, dietary supplementation with LUT improves the growth performance of P. clarkii. Thirdly, histological observations displayed that the hepatopancreas and intestine tissues were not damaged in the LUT−supplemented group, and the length of intestinal folds was significantly increased in the LG100 and LG300 groups. Fourthly, the LG50, LG100, and LG300 groups produced significantly increased hepatopancreatic antioxidant enzyme activities and hemolymph immune indicators compared with the CG group. In all experimental groups, malondialdehyde contents were significantly reduced, as were aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities. Adding LUT to the diet specifically improved the structure and optimized the function of the gut microbiota. Compared to the CG group, the LG group (100mg/kg) displayed a significant increase in the index of Chao1 and Observed species, an increase in the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, a decrease in the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes, and an increase in the abundance of Thermomonas, Turicibacter, Bdellovibrio and Enterococcus. PICRUSt analysis demonstrated a significant improvement in the KEGG pathway associated with isoflavone biosynthesis in the LG group. In conclusion, the present study confirms that dietary supplementation with 50−300mg/kg LUT favors growth, non−specific immunity and antioxidant function in P. clarkii, with optimal additions ranging from 102−165mg/kg. Furthermore, it optimized gut microbiota function, suggesting that LUT can be used as a potential feed additive for P. clarkii. These findings provide new insights for healthy P. clarkii culture.

Ascertaining variations in the activity of larval midgut enzymes of Helicoverpa armigera by dietary emamectin benzoate through biochemical and in silico docking study

Helicoverpa armigera, a ubiquitous polyphagous pest, poses a significant threat to global agriculture, causing substantial economic losses and demonstrating resistance to synthetic pesticides. This study investigates the potential of emamectin benzoate (EMB), an avermectin derivative, as an effective control agent against H. armigera. The larvae of the NBII-MP-NOC-01 strain of H. armigera were reared on an artificial diet. The impact of dietary EMB was examined on four midgut enzymes; alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), acid phosphatase (ACP), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Results showed a dose-dependent and time-dependent reduction in ALT and AST activity, while an initial increase and subsequent decline in ACP and ALP activity at higher EMB concentrations. Computational modelling of enzyme structures and molecular docking studies revealed differential binding of EMB with the midgut enzymes. The strongest interaction was observed between EMB and ALT residues, contrasting with weakest interactions observed with AST. The study also showed that decreased activity of transaminases in H. armigera caused by EMB may be because of stability-activity trade-off, while in phosphatases reverse may be the case. This research provides crucial insights into the biochemical responses and the intricate insecticide-enzyme interactions in H. armigera caused by EMB exposure. This study lays the foundation for further research aimed at developing environmentally friendly approaches for managing H. armigera, addressing the challenges associated with conventional pesticides.

HEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF WEANED PIGS FED MAIZE COB-CASSAVA PEEL MIXTURE AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR MAIZE

This study was carried out to investigate the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of weaned pigs fed maize cob-cassava peel mixture as partial replacement for maize. A total of 36 crossbreed male piglets with initial body weight (6.07±0.02 kg) of about 7-8 weeks’ old were randomly distributed into four groups of nine animals per treatment. Each treatment was further divided into three replicates consisting of three pigs in a completely randomized design. Pigs in treatment 1 were fed 0 % maize cob-cassava peel mixture (CPMCM) while CPMCM was used to replace maize at 10 % (T2), 20 % (T3) and 30 % (T3). Phytochemical evaluation of CPMCM revealed the presence of alkaloids (19.10 mg/kg), tannins (8.17 mg/kg), saponins (9.11 mg/kg), cyanide (16.50 mg/kg), flavonoids (12.86 mg/kg) and phenol (7.72 mg/kg). All the haematological parameters: red blood cell, pack cell volume, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell, monocytes, basophils and lymphocytes were significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced by the treatment except for platelet values (P&gt;0.05). Similarly, total protein, total bilirubin and gluscose levels were significantly different (P&lt;0.05) among the treatments except for cholesterol, urea, creatinine, activities of alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were not influenced by the treatment (P&gt;0.05). However, values were within the normal range for heathy weaner pigs. It was concluded that CPMCM can be used to partially replace maize up to 30 % without having any negative effect on the health status of pigs.

Determination of reference ranges of blood biochemical markers for track and field athletes considering specialization and preparation period

The analysis of blood biochemistry data in high-performance sports is necessary to calculate reference ranges under the influence of physical activity. The athletes of the national team of the Republic of Belarus and the nearest reserve were studied. Reference ranges of some biochemical and hematological blood parameters for athletes have been determined. The ranges of creatine kinase activity, the upper limit of the ranges of aspartate aminotransferase activity, and the lower limit of hemoglobin and hematocrit indicators have the greatest variability. In track and field athletes in long-distance running, they are higher compared to the clinical norm. The reference ranges of alanine aminotransferase activity, glucose, urea, and triglyceride concentrations have a narrower range compared to the clinical norm.

Dietary multi-strains Bacillus spp. enhanced growth performance, blood metabolites, digestive tissues histology, gene expression of Oreochromis niloticus, and resistance to Aspergillus flavus infection

AbstractThe present study tested the symbiotic effects of dietary multi-strain Bacillus probiotics (MSB) (Bacillus licheniformis, B. pumilus, and B. subtilis) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to Aspergillus flavus infection. Furthermore, this study investigated water quality, growth performance, blood metabolites, histological morphology, immune regulatory genes, and resistance to A. flavus infection. For 70 days, fish (n = 240) were divided into four groups in triplicate: T0 (control group; MSB0), T1 (1 g/kg, MSB1), T2 (2 g/kg, MSB2), and T3 (3 g/kg, MSB3). The immune response was then assessed by challenging all fish groups with the A. flavus pathogen. The results showed that the rearing water quality, fish growth, and blood parameters, as well as total proteins, albumin, globulins, and amylase activity were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) increased in all MSB-treated groups with the best results in MSB2 and MSB3 groups. Meanwhile, the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cholesterol, and glucose levels were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) modulated, particularly at higher concentrations of the probiotic mixture (MSB3 group). Fish fed with various levels of MSB showed a maintained histological structure of the hepatopancreas, intestine, and spleen tissues. The mRNA expression of growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGF-1R), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were increased in a dose-dependent manner due to MSB dietary inclusion (P &lt; 0.05). Conversely, the mRNA expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene was significantly decreased in MSB groups compared to untreated group (P &lt; 0.05). Surprisingly, supplemented groups in Bacillus spp. probiotics exhibited significant modulations in all computed parameters. MSB supplementation improved the pathogenic tolerance of tilapia after change with A. flavus. The integration of growth performance, biochemical, and transcriptomic results confirms that the dietary intervention of multi-strain Bacillus spp. is symbiotic and enhances the benefits for the maintenance of O. niloticus’ health, growth, and digestion. This is achieved by supporting growth genes, reducing inflammatory genes, and enhancing immune-antioxidant resistance to combat A. flavus infection.

Effects of Ramulus mori oligosaccharides on growth performance, serum physiological and biochemical parameters, and immunomodulation in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study examined the effects of dietary Ramulus mori oligosaccharides (RMO) supplementation on the growth, antioxidant capacity, and immunomodulatory capacity in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Fingerlings weighing 26.82 ± 0.31 g were randomly divided into three groups that were fed either the basal diet, supplementation with 0.5% RMO, or supplementation with 1.0% RMO. The feeding trial lasted 80 days, after which the fish were experimentally challenged with largemouth bass iridovirus (LMBV). The integration of RMO into the diet resulted in a slower rate of weight gain for largemouth bass, and it also led to an elevation in the feed coefficient. RMO supplementation significantly declined the serum levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein, and lowered the activities of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.05); increased the levels of serum total protein, albumin, and lysozyme (P < 0.05); and increased the survival rate of fish infected with LMBV. Additionally, RMO supplementation boosted the activity of superoxide dismutase in both serum and liver, decreased the malondialdehyde content, and enhanced the total antioxidant capacity of serum and liver. The addition of RMO to the diet can also lower the phenomenon of liver vacuolization and upregulate the gene expression of liver sod and cat, reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory factors tnf-α and il-8, and regulate the intestinal microbiota structure. In summary, RMO supplementation to a pelleted compound feed could improve the antioxidant capacity, increase disease resistance, affect the gut microbial composition, and protect the liver health of largemouth bass, showing the potential for development of this aquafeed additive.

Evaluation of capillary miR-122 as a prognostic biomarker of paracetamol-induced liver toxicity.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose is a leading cause of acute liver failure in many Western countries. Diagnostic tools for this poisoning may be suboptimal in some cases and new biomarkers have been investigated. We investigated the role of capillary microRNA-122 (miR-122) as a prognostic biomarker of liver injury in the clinical management of patients with paracetamol overdose. In a paracetamol overdose patient cohort, miR-122 was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in a blood drop obtained by a finger prick at the end of an antidote cycle treatment with N-acetylcysteine treatment (12h). Liver injury was defined as serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity > 100IU/L collected at 10 or 20h after the start of treatment. Pearson's correlation analyses were performed. In patients with paracetamol overdose, capillary miR-122 was positively correlated with ALT measured at 10h and at 20h (r = 0.83, P < 0.0001; r = 0.96, P < 0.0001, respectively). This work supports the potential use of capillary miR-122 as a prognostic biomarker of liver injury throughout clinical management of patients with paracetamol overdose. Capillary miR-122 can be measured in a blood drop collected by a finger prick, a minimally invasive diagnostic test for patient stratification.

Biomarkers in Detection of Hepatitis C Virus Infection.

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 58 million people worldwide. In the United States, the incidence rate of acute hepatitis C has doubled since 2014; during 2021, this increased to 5% from 2020. Acute hepatitis C is defined by any symptom of acute viral hepatitis plus either jaundice or elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity with the detection of HCV RNA, the anti-HCV antibody, or hepatitis C virus antigen(s). However, most patients with acute infection are asymptomatic. In addition, ALT activity and HCV RNA levels can fluctuate, and a delayed detection of the anti-HCV antibody can occur among some immunocompromised persons with HCV infection. The detection of specific biomarkers can be of great value in the early detection of HCV infection at an asymptomatic stage. The high rate of HCV replication (which is approximately 1010 to 1012 virions per day) and the lack of proofreading by the viral RNA polymerase leads to enormous genetic diversity, creating a major challenge for the host immune response. This broad genetic diversity contributes to the likelihood of developing chronic infection, thus leading to the development of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies for HCV infection are highly effective with a cure rate of up to 99%. At the same time, many patients with HCV infection are unaware of their infection status because of the mostly asymptomatic nature of hepatitis C, so they remain undiagnosed until the liver damage has advanced. Molecular mechanisms induced by HCV have been intensely investigated to find biomarkers for diagnosing the acute and chronic phases of the infection. However, there are no clinically verified biomarkers for patients with hepatitis C. In this review, we discuss the biomarkers that can differentiate acute from chronic hepatitis C, and we summarize the current state of the literature on the useful biomarkers that are detectable during acute and chronic HCV infection, liver fibrosis/cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

EVALUATION OF SOME LIVER ENZYMES AND ALPHA-FETOPROTEIN IN WORKERS OCCUPATIONALLY EXPOSED TO E-WASTE IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE NIGERIA

BACKGROUND: The advent of electricity has spurred significant technological advancements, leading to the production of numerous electrical and electronic devices. This progress, however, has resulted in a surge of largely irreparable electronic waste (e-waste) being constantly shipped to Nnewi, a metropolitan city with large-scale commercial and industrialactivities. E-waste contains thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic to humans upon exposure.AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in workers occupationally exposed to e-waste.METHODOLOGY: The study comprised 40 e-waste workers (exposed group) and 40 healthy individuals (control group). Approximately 5 ml of venous blood was collected from each participant. The liver enzymes – ALT, AST, and ALP were evaluated colorimetrically, while AFP was assayed by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. Data obtained was statistically analyzed using SPSS windows version 25 with significance set as p&lt;0.05 at 95% confidence interval; Independent T-test, descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation were employed where relevant. Results were presented as means ± standard deviation in contingency tables.RESULT: There was no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) in the activities of ALT, AST, ALP and serum level of AFP between the exposed subjects and the control. However, significantly negative correlation was found between age and ALT (r = -0.294; p= 0.024), while DOE also had negative correlation with ALP (r= -0.294; P= 0.024) - all among e-waste exposed group.CONCLUSION: This study has shown that exposure to e-waste may not have a harmful effect on the liver function, since there was no significant difference in the liver function enzymes, and serum levels of AFP. However, age and longer duration of exposure to e-waste could be detrimental to health.

The p21+ perinecrotic hepatocytes produce the chemokine CXCL14 after a severe acetaminophen overdose promoting hepatocyte injury and delaying regeneration

Fifty percent of all acute liver failure (ALF) cases in the United States are due to acetaminophen (APAP) overdose. Assessment of canonical features of liver injury, such as plasma alanine aminotransferase activities are poor predictors of acute liver failure (ALF), suggesting the involvement of additional mechanisms independent of hepatocyte death. Previous work demonstrated a severe overdose of APAP results in impaired regeneration, the induction of senescence by p21, and increased mortality. We hypothesized that a discrete population of p21+ hepatocytes acquired a secretory phenotype that directly impedes liver recovery after a severe APAP overdose. Leveraging in-house human APAP explant liver and publicly available single-nuclei RNAseq data, we identified a subpopulation of p21+ hepatocytes enriched in a unique secretome of factors, such as CXCL14. Spatial transcriptomics in the mouse model of APAP overdose confirmed the presence of a p21+ hepatocyte population that directly surrounded the necrotic areas. In both male and female mice, we found a dose-dependent induction of p21 and persistent circulating levels of the p21-specific constituent, CXCL14, in the plasma after a severe APAP overdose. In parallel experiments, we targeted either the putative senescent hepatocytes with the senolytic drugs, dasatinib and quercetin, or CXCL14 with a neutralizing antibody. We found that targeting CXCL14 greatly enhanced liver recovery after APAP-induced liver injury, while targeting senescent hepatocytes had no effect. These data support the conclusion that the sustained induction of p21 in hepatocytes with persistent CXCL14 secretion are critical mechanistic events leading to ALF in mice and human patients.