Altered Redox Status Research Articles

Paired analysis of host and pathogen genomes identifies determinants of human tuberculosis

Infectious disease is the result of interactions between host and pathogen and can depend on genetic variations in both. We conduct a genome-to-genome study of paired human and Mycobacterium tuberculosis genomes from a cohort of 1556 tuberculosis patients in Lima, Peru. We identify an association between a human intronic variant (rs3130660, OR = 10.06, 95%CI: 4.87 − 20.77, P = 7.92 × 10−8) in the FLOT1 gene and a subclavaluee of Mtb Lineage 2. In a human macrophage infection model, we observe hosts with the rs3130660-A allele exhibited stronger interferon gene signatures. The interacting strains have altered redox states due to a thioredoxin reductase mutation. We investigate this association in a 2020 cohort of 699 patients recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the prevalence of the interacting strain almost doubled between 2010 and 2020, its infection is not associated with rs3130660 in this recent cohort. These findings suggest a complex interplay among host, pathogen, and environmental factors in tuberculosis dynamics.

Advances in myocardial energy metabolism: metabolic remodeling in heart failure and beyond.

The very high energy demand of the heart is primarily met by ATP production from mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, with glycolysis providing a smaller amount of ATP production. This ATP production is markedly altered in heart failure, primarily due to a decrease in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. Although an increase in glycolytic ATP production partly compensates for the decrease in mitochondrial ATP production, the failing heart faces an energy deficit, that contributes to the severity of contractile dysfunction. The relative contribution of the different fuels for mitochondrial ATP production dramatically changes in the failing heart, which depends to a large extent on the type of heart failure. A common metabolic defect in all forms of heart failure (including HFrEF, HFpEF, and diabetic cardiomyopathies) is a decrease in mitochondrial oxidation of pyruvate originating from glucose (i.e. glucose oxidation). This decrease in glucose oxidation occurs regardless of whether glycolysis is increased, resulting in an uncoupling of glycolysis from glucose oxidation that can decrease cardiac efficiency. The mitochondrial oxidation of fatty acids by the heart increases or decreases, depending on the type of heart failure. For instance, in HFpEF and diabetic cardiomyopathies myocardial fatty acid oxidation increases, while in HFrEF myocardial fatty acid oxidation either decreases or remains unchanged. The oxidation of ketones (which provides the failing heart with an important energy source) also differs depending on the type of heart failure, being increased in HFrEF, and decreased in HFpEF and diabetic cardiomyopathies. The alterations in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism and glycolysis in the failing heart are due to transcriptional changes in key enzymes involved in the metabolic pathways, as well as alterations in redox state, metabolic signaling, and posttranslational epigenetic changes in energy metabolic enzymes. Of importance, targeting the mitochondrial energy metabolic pathways has emerged as a novel therapeutic approach to improving cardiac function and cardiac efficiency in the failing heart.

A short duration of mechanical ventilation alters redox status in the diaphragm and aggravates inflammation in septic mice

BackgroundMechanical ventilation (MV) is a life support method used to treat patients with respiratory failure. High tidal volumes during MV can cause ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), but also affect other organs, such as the diaphragm (Dia) causing ventilator-induced diaphragmatic dysfunction (VIDD). VIDD is often associated with a complicated course on MV. Sepsis can induce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the impairment of the Dia and worsening of the prognosis. This study evaluated the additive or synergistic effects of a short course of mechanical ventilation on Dia in healthy and septic adult mice. Methods32 adult male C57BL/6 mice were randomly into four groups: Control (CG), non-ventilated animals instilled with saline solution (PBS1x); Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), non-ventilated animals instilled with PBS solution containing lipopolysaccharide; Mechanical Ventilation (MV) for 1 h, ventilated animals instilled with PBS solution; and Mechanical Ventilation and LPS (MV+LPS), ventilated animals instilled with PBS solution containing LPS. At the end of the experimental protocol, the animals were euthanized, then blood and diaphragm tissue samples were collected. ResultsEvaluation of leukocyte/blood parameters and diaphragm muscle showed that MV, LPS and the combination of both were able to increase neutrophil count, creatine kinase, inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress in all groups compared to the control. MV and sepsis combined had additive effects on inflammation and lipid peroxidation. ConclusionsA short course of Mechanical ventilation promotes inflammation and oxidative stress and, its combination with sepsis further increases local and systemic inflammation.

The Interplay of Carveol and All-Trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA) in Experimental Parkinson's Disease: Role of Inflammasome-Mediated Pyroptosis and Nrf2.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating and the second most common neurodegenerative disorder with a high prevalence. PD has a multifaceted etiology characterized by an altered redox state and an excessive inflammatory response. Extensive research has consistently demonstrated the role of the nuclear factor E2-related factor (Nrf2) and inflammasomes, notably NLRP3 in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, our focus was on exploring the potential neuroprotective properties of carveol in Parkinson's disease. Our findings suggest that carveol may exhibit these effects through Nrf2 and by suppressing pyroptosis. Male albino mice were treated with carveol, and the animal PD model was induced through a single intranigral dose of 2µg/2µl lipopolysaccharide (LPS). To further demonstrate the essential role of the Nrf2 pathway, we utilized all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) to inhibit the Nrf2. Our finding showed the induction of pyroptosis as evidenced by increased levels of NLRP3 and other inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, iNOS, p-NFKB, and apoptotic cell death indicated by positive fluoro Jade B (FJB) staining. Moreover, increased levels of lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species indicated a significant rise in oxidative stress due to LPS. The administration of carveol mitigates oxidative stress and suppresses inflammatory pathways through the augmentation of intrinsic antioxidant defenses, primarily via the activation of the Nrf2. Conversely, ATRA reversed carveol protective effects by increasing FJB-positive cells, inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers. Taken together, our findings suggest that carveol mitigated LPS-induced Parkinson-like symptoms, partially through the activation of the Nrf2 and downregulation of pyroptosis notably NLRP3.

MicroRNA mediated suppression of airway lactoperoxidase by TGF-β1 and cigarette smoke promotes airway inflammation

Transforming Growth Factor Beta1 (TGF-β1) signaling is upregulated in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD), smokers, and people living with HIV. Cigarette smoking and HIV are also independent risk factors for COPD. Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of COPD. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Previous research has suggested that TGF-β1 alters the airway epithelial microRNAome and transcriptome, potentially contributing to lung inflammation. The Lactoperoxidase (LPO) system is an integral component of innate immunity within the airway. LPO plays a crucial role in host defense by catalyzing the oxidation of thiocyanate to hypothiocyanite in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), generating a potent antibacterial and antiviral agent. Additionally, the LPO system potentially aids in maintaining cellular redox balance by reducing the levels of H2O2, thus mitigating oxidative stress within the airway epithelium. LPO dysfunction can impair immune responses and exacerbate inflammatory processes in respiratory diseases.In this study, primary bronchial epithelial cells and bronchial cell lines were treated with TGF-β1 and exposed to cigarette smoke to characterize the effect of these factors on LPO and their downstream effects. RT-qPCR and Western Blot were applied to quantify mRNA and proteins’ expression. The levels of H2O2 were detected using the Amplex Red Assay. Magnetofection and transfection were applied to probe the effect of miR-449b-5p. Staining procedures using the MitoTracker Green and C12FDG dyes were used to establish mitochondria mass and senescence. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured via Luminex assays.We found that TGF-β1 and cigarette smoke suppressed airway LPO expression, increasing H2O2 levels. This increase in H2O2 had downstream effects on mitochondrial homeostasis, epithelial cellular senescence, and the pro-inflammatory cytokine response. We demonstrate for the first time that airway LPO is regulated by TGF-β1-induced miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional silencing through miR-449b-5p in the lungs. Further, we identify and validate miR-449-5p as the candidate miRNA upregulated by TGF-β1, which is involved in LPO suppression. This paper demonstrates a new mechanism by which TGF-β1 can lead to altered redox status in the airway.

Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Magnetotactic Bacteria-Based Multi-Drug Delivery Platform for MRI-Visualized Tumor Photothermal Chemodynamic Therapy.

Cancer cells display elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and altered redox status. Herein, based on these characteristics, we present a multi-drug delivery platform, AMB@PDAP-Fe (APPF), from the magnetotactic bacterium AMB-1 and realize MRI-visualized tumor-microenvironment-responsive photothermal-chemodynamic therapy. The Fe3+ in PDAP-Fe is reduced by the GSH at the tumor site and is released in the form of highly active Fe2+, which catalyzes the generation of ROS through the Fenton reaction and inhibits tumor growth. At the same time, the significant absorption of the mineralized magnetosomes in AMB-1 cells in the NIR region enables them to efficiently convert near-infrared light into heat energy for photothermal therapy (PTT), to which PDAP also contributes. The heat generated in the PTT process accelerates the process of Fe2+ release, thereby achieving an enhanced Fenton reaction in the tumor microenvironment. In addition, the magnetosomes in AMB-1 are used as an MRI contrast agent, and the curing process is visualized. This tumor microenvironment-responsive MTB-based multi-drug delivery platform displays the potency to combat tumors and demonstrates the utility and practicality of understanding the cooperative molecular mechanism when designing multi-drug combination therapies.

Mitohormesis during advanced stages of Duchenne muscular dystrophy reveals a redox-sensitive creatine pathway that can be enhanced by the mitochondrial-targeting peptide SBT-20

Mitochondrial creatine kinase (mtCK) regulates the “fast” export of phosphocreatine to support cytoplasmic phosphorylation of ADP to ATP which is more rapid than direct ATP export. Such “creatine-dependent” phosphate shuttling is attenuated in several muscles, including the heart, of the D2.mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy at only 4 weeks of age. However, the degree to which creatine-dependent and -independent systems of phosphate shuttling progressively worsen or potentially adapt in a hormetic manner throughout disease progression remains unknown. Here, we performed a series of proof-of-principle investigations designed to determine how phosphate shuttling pathways worsen or adapt in later disease stages in D2.mdx (12 months of age). We also determined whether changes in creatine-dependent phosphate shuttling are linked to alterations in mtCK thiol redox state. In permeabilized muscle fibres prepared from cardiac left ventricles, we found that 12-month-old male D2.mdx mice have reduced creatine-dependent pyruvate oxidation and elevated complex I-supported H2O2 emission (mH2O2). Surprisingly, creatine-independent ADP-stimulated respiration was increased and mH2O2 was lowered suggesting that impairments in the faster mtCK-mediated phosphocreatine export system resulted in compensation of the alternative slower pathway of ATP export. The apparent impairments in mtCK-dependent bioenergetics occurred independent of mtCK protein content but were related to greater thiol oxidation of mtCK and a more oxidized cellular environment (lower GSH:GSSG). Next, we performed a proof-of-principle study to determine whether creatine-dependent bioenergetics could be enhanced through chronic administration of the mitochondrial-targeting, ROS-lowering tetrapeptide, SBT-20. We found that 12 weeks of daily treatment with SBT-20 (from day 4–∼12 weeks of age) increased respiration and lowered mH2O2 only in the presence of creatine in D2.mdx mice without affecting calcium-induced mitochondrial permeability transition activity. In summary, creatine-dependent mitochondrial bioenergetics are attenuated in older D2.mdx mice in relation to mtCK thiol oxidation that seem to be countered by increased creatine-independent phosphate shuttling as a unique form of mitohormesis. Separate results demonstrate that creatine-dependent bioenergetics can also be enhanced with a ROS-lowering mitochondrial-targeting peptide. These results demonstrate a specific relationship between redox stress and mitochondrial hormetic reprogramming during dystrophin deficiency with proof-of-principle evidence that creatine-dependent bioenergetics could be modified with mitochondrial-targeting small peptide therapeutics.

Peroxiredoxin 2 regulates DAF-16/FOXO mediated mitochondrial remodelling in response to exercise that is disrupted in ageing

ObjectivesA decline in mitochondrial function and increased susceptibility to oxidative stress is a hallmark of ageing. Exercise endogenously generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in skeletal muscle and promotes mitochondrial remodelling resulting in improved mitochondrial function. It is unclear how exercise induced redox signalling results in alterations in mitochondrial dynamics and morphology. MethodsIn this study, a Caenorhabditis elegans model of exercise and ageing was used to determine the mechanistic role of Peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX-2) in regulating mitochondrial morphology. Mitochondrial morphology was analysed using transgenic reporter strains and transmission electron microscopy, complimented with the analysis of the effects of ageing and exercise on physiological activity. ResultsThe redox state of PRDX-2 was altered with exercise and ageing, hyperoxidised peroxiredoxins were detected in old worms along with basally elevated intracellular ROS. Exercise generated intracellular ROS and rapid mitochondrial remodelling, which was disrupted with age. The exercise intervention promoted mitochondrial ER contact sites (MERCS) assembly and increased DAF-16/FOXO nuclear localisation. The prdx-2 mutant strain had a disrupted mitochondrial network as evidenced by increased mitochondrial fragmentation. In the prdx-2 mutant strain, exercise did not activate DAF-16/FOXO, mitophagy or increase MERCS assembly. The results demonstrate that exercise generated ROS increased DAF-16/FOXO transcription factor nuclear localisation required for activation of mitochondrial fusion events that were blunted with age. ConclusionsThe data demonstrate the critical role of PRDX-2 in orchestrating mitochondrial remodelling in response to a physiological stress by regulating redox dependent DAF-16/FOXO nuclear localisation.

ABCC2 induces metabolic vulnerability and cellular ferroptosis via enhanced glutathione efflux in gastric cancer.

Although it is traditionally believed that ATP binding cassette subfamily C member 2 (ABCC2) is a multidrug resistance-associated protein correlated with a worse prognosis, our previous and several other studies demonstrated the contrary to be true in gastric cancer (GC). We aim to explore the underlying mechanism of this discovery. Our study utilized whole-exome sequencing (WES), RNA sequencing, and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) analysis of 80 gastric cancer samples, along with comprehensive immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of 1044 human GC tissue samples.By utilizing CRISPRCas9 to genetically modify cell lines with the ABCC2-24C > T (rs717620) point mutation and conducting dual-luciferase reporter assays, we identified that transcription factors SOX9 and ETS1 serve as negative regulators of ABCC2 expression. Seahorse assay and mass spectrometry were used to discover altered metabolic patterns. Gain and loss-of-function experiments in GC cell lines and preclinical models were carried out to validate ABCC2 biological function. ABCC2 high expression correlated with better prognosis, and rs717620 can influence ABCC2 expression by disrupting the binding of ETS1 and SOX9. Gain and loss-of-function experiments in GC cell lines demonstrated amino acid deprivation reduces proliferation, migration, and drug resistance in ABCC2-high GC cells. ABCC2 leads to reduced intracellular amino acid pools and disruption of cellular energy metabolism. This phenomenon depended on ABCC2-mediated GSH extrusion, resulting in alterations in redox status, thereby increasing the cell's susceptibility to ferroptosis. Furthermore, patient-derived organoids and patient-derived tumor-like cell clusters were used to observe impact of ABCC2 on therapeutic effect. In the xenograft model with high ABCC2 expression, we observed that constricting amino acid intake in conjunction with GPX4 inactivation resulted in notable tumor regression. Our findings demonstrate a significant role of ABCC2 in amino acid metabolism and ferroptosis by mediating GSH efflux in GC. This discovery underlines the potential of combining multiple ferroptosis targets as a promising therapeutic strategy for GC with high ABCC2 expression. ABCC2 plays a crucial role in inducing metabolic vulnerability and ferroptosis in gastric cancer through enhanced glutathione efflux. The ABCC2 24C > T polymorphism is a key factor influencing its expression. These results highlight the potential of ABCC2 as a predictive biomarker and therapeutic target in gastric cancer.

Protective Effects of Curcumin and its Analogues via the Nrf2 Pathway in Metabolic Syndrome.

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) refers to a set of medical conditions including insulin resistance, central obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Due to these dysregulations, if not treated, MetS could increase the risk of CVA, CVD, and diabetes. As described by WHO, CVD is the leading cause of mortality in the world which motivates researchers to investigate the management of its risk factors, especially MetS. It is reported that oxidative stress secondary to the abundant generation of free radicals oxygen species (ROS) and the ensuing altered redox status play an important role as a mediator in MetS. As a result, using new antioxidant agents with higher bioavailability has been proposed as an efficient treatment. Curcumin (a polyphenol of the diarylheptanoids class), which is used as a traditional medicine for various diseases including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, is characterized by its antioxidant properties which, at least in part, are mediated via the activation of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that plays a key role in regulating internal defense systems and increases antioxidant levels to decrease oxidative damage and cell apoptosis. Nrf2 expression and stability are enhanced by curcumin, leading to a higher rate of Nrf2 migration to the cell nucleus to regulate ARE gene expression, thus protecting cells against oxidative stress. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the molecular effect of curcumin and its derivatives via Nrf2 regulation in several conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity.

P-082 Use of TetraSOD® in male infertility: double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study

Abstract Study question Can the use of TetraSOD® (microalgae with high content of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase) improve semen quality and reduce oxidative stress in sperm? Summary answer The use of TetraSOD® reduces the oxidative stress of sperm, increasing the total sperm count in oligozoospermia and reducing the double-stranded DNA sperm fragmentation. What is known already Male factor is present in approximately 50% of the infertile couples, a large number of them of unknown or idiopathic origin. It has been demonstrated that semen quality is deteriorating over time, perhaps as a result of exposure to several environmental factors related with lifestyle that could impact both directly and indirectly on the complex process of spermatogenesis. Some of these bad habits of lifestyle increase the levels of oxidative stress in semen, which is associated with lower sperm concentration and motility. In this scenario, the use of antioxidants can be useful to increase sperm quality. Study design, size, duration Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical study to assess the effect of 250 mg of TetraSOD® (microalgae with high content of the primary antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase). Eighty patients with idiopathic infertility showing asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia or oligoasthenozoospermia were recruited and randomized to receive 250 mg of TetraSOD® (TSOD group) or placebo (Placebo group) for 3 months. Participants/materials, setting, methods Men with asthenozoospermia, oligozoospemia or aligoastenozoospermia and idiopatic infertility were recruited after informed consent signature. Patients were randomized into two groups. TetraSOD® group received 250 mg of TetraSOD®during 3 months, and Placebo group received capsules without TetraSOD® during the same period of time. Seminogram, double-strand sperm DNA fragmentation (COMET assay) and sORP (static oxidation- reduction potential) were studied at baseline (V0) and after 3 months (V3). Main results and the role of chance TetraSOD® consumption for three months elicited a statistically significant increase (Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test; p=0.02) in the average number of sperms per ejaculate (from 17.06 x 106 to 41.94 x 106) in participants displaying oligozoospermia (<39 x 106 sperms) at V0. In contrast, the lower variation in the measured values in the Placebo group was not statistically significant. Regarding sORP, a statistically significant decrease (Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test; p=0.0233) was observed in participants who displayed a value at V0 between 1.34-10. After TetraSOD® consumption, the average changed from 2.96 to 1.91 mv/106 sperm/ml from V0 to V3. However, not statistically significant changes were detected in the Placebo group between sORP values at V0 and V3. Moreover, in relation to double-stranded DNA breaks, a statistically significant decrease (Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test; p=0.01) in the average percentages (from 31.81% to 25.93%) was measured after consumption of TetraSOD® at V3 in participants displaying a compromised redox status (sORP>1.34-10) at V0. No significant changes were found in the Placebo group. Limitations, reasons for caution The study was performed only in one ethnic group, so in future studies other ethnicities should be included. Wider implications of the findings TetraSOD® may improve male fertility because increases the number of sperms per ejaculate in oligozoospermia and reduces double-stranded DNA fragmentation in sperm when individuals display an altered redox status in semen. Such results might be related to the indirect antioxidant effect of TetraSOD®, reducing oxidative stress in seminal fluid. Trial registration number Not applicable

New perspectives on the role of biological factors in anorexia nervosa: Brain volume reduction or oxidative stress, which came first?

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder (ED) that has seen an increase in its incidence in the last thirty years. Compared to other psychosomatic disorders, ED can be responsible for many major medical complications, moreover, in addition to the various systemic impairments, patients with AN undergo morphological and physiological changes affecting the cerebral cortex. Through immunohistochemical studies on portions of postmortem human brain of people affected by AN and healthy individuals, and western blot studies on leucocytes of young patients and healthy controls, this study investigated the role in the afore-mentioned processes of altered redox state. The results showed that the brain volume reduction in AN could be due to an increase in the rate of cell death, mainly by apoptosis, in which mitochondria, main cellular organelles affected by a decreased dietary intake, and a highly compromised intracellular redox balance, may play a pivotal role

Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seed improves redox state and reverts extracellular matrix collagen deposition in skeletal muscle of sucrose-rich diet-fed rats.

Skeletal muscle (SkM) is a plastic and dynamic tissue, essential in energy metabolism. Growing evidence suggests a close relationship between intramuscular fat accumulation, oxidative stress (OS), extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and metabolic deregulation in SkM. Nowadays natural products emerge as promising alternatives for the treatment of metabolic disorders. We have previously shown that chia seed administration reverts SkM lipotoxicity and whole-body insulin resistant (IR) in sucrose-rich diet (SRD) fed rats. The purpose of the present study was to assess the involvement of OS and fibrosis in SkM metabolic impairment of insulin-resistant rats fed a long-term SRD and the effects of chia seed upon these mechanisms as therapeutic strategy. Results showed that insulin-resistant SRD-fed rats exhibited sarcopenia, increase in lipid peroxidation, altered redox state, and ECM remodeling-increased collagen deposition and lower activity of the metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) in SkM. Chia seed increased ferric ion reducing antioxidant power and glutathione reduced form levels, and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymes. Moreover, chia seed reversed fibrosis and restored the MMP-2 activity. This work reveals a participation of the OS and ECM remodeling in the metabolic alterations of SkM in our experimental model. Moreover, current data show novel properties of chia seed with the potential to attenuate SkM OS and fibrosis, hallmark of insulin-resistant muscle.

Potential small effector molecules restoring cellular defects due to sialic acid biosynthetic enzyme deficiency: Pathological relevance to GNE myopathy

GNEM (GNE Myopathy) is a rare neuromuscular disease caused due to biallelic mutations in sialic acid biosynthetic GNE enzyme (UDP-N-acetylglucosamine 2-epimerase/N-acetylmannosamine Kinase). Recently direct or indirect role of GNE in other cellular functions have been elucidated. Hyposialylation of IGF-1R leads to apoptosis due to mitochondrial dysfunction while hyposialylation of β1 integrin receptor leads to altered F-actin assembly, disrupted cytoskeletal organization and slow cell migration. Other cellular defects in presence of GNE mutation include altered ER redox state and chaperone expression such as HSP70 or PrdxIV. Currently, there is no cure to treat GNEM. Possible therapeutic trials focus on supplementation with sialic acid, ManNAc, sialyllactose and gene therapy that slows the disease progression. In the present study, we analyzed the effect of small molecules like BGP-15 (HSP70 modulator), IGF-1 (IGF-1R ligand) and CGA (cofilin activator) on cellular phenotypes of GNE heterozygous knock out L6 rat skeletal muscle cell line (SKM‑GNEHz). Treatment with BGP-15 improved GNE epimerase activity by 40 % and reduced ER stress by 45 % for SKM‑GNEHz. Treatment with IGF-1 improved epimerase activity by 37.5 %, F-actin assembly by 100 %, cell migration upto 36 % (36 h) and atrophy by 0.44-fold for SKM‑GNEHz. Treatment with CGA recovered epimerase activity by 49 %, F-actin assembly by 132 % and cell migration upto 41 % (24 h) in SKM‑GNEHz. Our study shows that treatment with these small effector molecules reduces the detrimental phenotype observed in SKM‑GNEHz, thereby, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for GNEM.

Capsicum chinense Jacq.-derived glutaredoxin (CcGRXS12) alters redox status of the cells to confer resistance against pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV-I).

The CcGRXS12 gene protects plants from cellular oxidative damage that are caused by both biotic and abiotic stresses. The protein possesses GSH-disulphide oxidoreductase property but lacks Fe-S cluster assembly mechanism. Glutaredoxins (Grxs) are small, ubiquitous and multi-functional proteins. They are present in different compartments of plant cells. A chloroplast targeted Class I GRX (CcGRXS12) gene was isolated from Capsicum chinense during the pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) infection. Functional characterization of the gene was performed in Nicotiana benthamiana transgenic plants transformed with native C. chinense GRX (Nb:GRX), GRX-fused with GFP (Nb:GRX-GFP) and GRX-truncated for chloroplast sequences fused with GFP (Nb:Δ2MGRX-GFP). Overexpression of CcGRXS12 inhibited the PMMoV-I accumulation at the later stage of infection, accompanied with the activation of salicylic acid (SA) pathway pathogenesis-related (PR) transcripts and suppression of JA/ET pathway transcripts. Further, the reduced accumulation of auxin-induced Glutathione-S-Transferase (pCNT103) in CcGRXS12 overexpressing lines indicated that the protein could protect the plants from the oxidative stress caused by the virus. PMMoV-I infection increased the accumulation of pyridine nucleotides (PNs) mainly due to the reduced form of PNs (NAD(P)H), and it was high in Nb:GRX-GFP lines compared to other transgenic lines. Apart from biotic stress, CcGRXS12 protects the plants from abiotic stress conditions caused by H2O2 and herbicide paraquat. CcGRXS12 exhibited GSH-disulphide oxidoreductase activity in vitro; however, it was devoid of complementary Fe-S cluster assembly mechanism found in yeast. Overall, this study proves that CcGRXS12 plays a crucial role during biotic and abiotic stress in plants.

Gut microbiome alterations at acute myeloid leukemia diagnosis are associated with muscle weakness and anorexia.

The gut microbiota makes critical contributions to host homeostasis, and its role in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has attracted attention. We investigated whether the gut microbiome is affected by AML, and whether such changes are associated with hallmarks of cachexia. Biological samples and clinical data were collected from 30 antibiotic- free AML patients at diagnosis and matched volunteers (1:1) in a multicenter, cross-sectional, prospective study. The composition and functional potential of the fecal microbiota were analyzed using shotgun metagenomics. Fecal, blood, and urinary metabolomics analyses were performed. AML patients displayed muscle weakness, anorexia, signs of altered gut function, and glycemic disorders. The composition of the fecal microbiota differed between patients with AML and control subjects, with an increase in oral bacteria. Alterations in bacterial functions and fecal metabolome support an altered redox status in the gut microbiota, which may contribute to the altered redox status observed in patients with AML. Eubacterium eligens, reduced 3-fold in AML patients, was strongly correlated with muscle strength and citrulline, a marker of enterocyte mass and function. Blautia and Parabacteroides, increased in patients with AML, were correlated with anorexia. Several bacterial taxa and metabolites (e.g., Blautia, Prevotella, phenylacetate, and hippurate) previously associated with glycemic disorders were altered. Our work revealed important perturbations in the gut microbiome of AML patients at diagnosis, which are associated with muscle strength, altered redox status, and anorexia. These findings pave the way for future mechanistic work to explore the function and therapeutic potential of the bacteria identified in this study.

Ellagic acid protects against angiotensin II-induced hypertrophic responses through ROS-mediated MAPK pathway in H9c2 cells.

The early myocardial response of hypertension is an elevation of angiotensin-II (Ang-II) concentration, leading to heart failure and cardiac hypertrophy. This hypertrophic event of the heart is mediated by the interaction of Ang type 1 receptors (AT-R1), thereby modulating NADPH oxidase activity in cardiomyocytes, which alters redox status in cardiomyocytes. Ellagic acid (EA) has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative capacities. Thus, EA has potential preventive effects on cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. In the last decades, because the protective effect of EA on Ang-II-induced hypertrophic responses is unclear, this study aims to investigate the protective effect of EA in cardiomyocytes. H9c2 cells were treated to Ang-II 1 μM for 24 h to induce cellular damage. We found that EA protected against Ang-II-increased cell surface area and pro-hypertrophic gene expression in H9c2. EA reduced Ang-II-caused AT-R1 upregulation, thereby inhibiting oxidative stress NADPH oxidase activation. EA mitigated Ang-II-enhanced p38 and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. Moreover, EA treatment under Ang-II stimulation also reversed NF-κB activity and iNOS expression. This study shows that EA protects against Ang-II-induced myocardial hypertrophy and attenuates oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways in H9c2 cells. Thus, EA may be an effective compound for preventing Ang-II-induced myocardial hypertrophy.

Recent Advances in Our Understanding of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Redox Signaling, and the Complement System.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent degenerative disorder of the central retina, which holds global significance as the fourth leading cause of blindness. The condition is characterized by a multifaceted pathophysiology that involves aging, oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular dysfunction, and complement activation. The complex interplay of these factors contributes to the initiation and progression of AMD. Current treatments primarily address choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in neovascular AMD. However, the approval of novel drug therapies for the atrophic and more gradual variant, known as geographic atrophy (GA), has recently occurred. In light of the substantial impact of AMD on affected individuals' quality of life and the strain it places on healthcare systems, there is a pressing need for innovative medications. This paper aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of advancements in our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of AMD. Special attention will be given to the influence of aging and altered redox status on mitochondrial dynamics, cell death pathways, and the intricate interplay between oxidative stress and the complement system, specifically in the context of GA. Additionally, this review will shed light on newly approved therapies and explore emerging alternative treatment strategies in the field. The objective is to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding AMD, offering insights into the latest developments that may pave the way for more effective management and intervention approaches.

Myeloprotective and Hematinic Influence of Harungana madagascariensis in Benzene-initiated Onco-hematologic Process in Wistar Rats

Background: Harungana madagascariensis is a medicinal plant that is traditionally utilized for the treatment of anaemia. Benzene constitutes an occupational toxicant due to its adverse effect on hematology of exposed industrial workers leading to onco-hematology. Therefore, the efficacy of Harungana madagascariensis against benzene-induced pre-leukaemic condition was investigated in rat model.
 Methodology: Hematological disturbance leading to pre-leukemic conditions was induced in Wistar rats by intraperitoneal administration of 400mg/kg of benzene in propan-2-ol:water (1:1 v/v) every other day for 28 days. Following benzene intoxication, 200 mg/ kg HM was administered orally for 14 days. Hematological parameters and blood cell morphology were compared between baseline control and benzene-intoxicated rats with or without HM extract treatment.
 Results: BZ-induced hematologically disturbed rats exhibited anaemic symptoms marked by reduction in hemoglobin level, red blood cells, and packed cell volume with morphologic blast cell appearance, polychromasia, hypersegmented neutrophil, anisocytosis and poikilocytosis. Moreover, there was an altered redox status depicted by a significant reduction in plasma level of total sulfhydryl content with concomitant increase in advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) that were accompanied by increased frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and hypercellularity in the bone marrow of benzene intoxicated rats. However, treatment with Harungana madagascariensis restored blood hematology and alleviated the blood cell morphological alteration induced by benzene. It also improved plasma redox status, reduced the frequency of micronucleus and improve the architecture of bone marrow cellularity in treated intoxicated rats.
 Conclusion: Harungana madagascariensis protected against benzene-induced hematological alterations leading to pre-leukemic conditions in Wistar rats.

Main Colonic Metabolites from Coffee Chlorogenic Acid May Counteract Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in 3T3-L1 Cells.

Obesity is coupled with an altered redox state and low-level inflammation. Oxidative stress may increase pre-adipocyte proliferation, adipocyte differentiation and mature adipocyte size. Regarding inflammation, the dysregulation of cytokine production by adipose tissue takes place in obesity, which is promoted by oxidative stress. Polyphenols may exert a positive effect on obesity, not only by modulating the redox state, but also due to their anti-inflammatory activity. Coffee, which is one of the most consumed beverages, is very rich in phenolic compounds. Bioavailability studies on coffee phenols have shown that the most abundant group of metabolites in plasma and urine are dihydrocaffeic (DHCA), dihydroferulic (DHFA), and hydroxyhippuric (HHA) acids, the three acids of colonic origin. To better understand the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of DHCA, DHFA, and HHA, an inflammation/oxidation model was set up in the pre-adipocyte 3T3-L1 cell line using tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). After the exposure of 3T3-L1 cells to 0.5, 1, 5, and 10 µM of TNF-α at different times, the cell viability, interleukin (IL)-6 secretion, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and glutathione (GSH) were determined. Using the TNF-α prooxidant and proinflammatory conditions established (10 µM, 24 h), it was observed that the physiological concentrations (0.5, 1, 5, and 10 µM) of DHCA, DHFA, and HHA induced dose-dependent antioxidant effects according to the ROS, GSH, and antioxidant enzyme (glutathione peroxidase) results. In addition, reductions in the IL-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) concentrations were observed to different extents depending on the metabolite (DHFA, HHA, or DHCA) and the concentration used. In conclusion, the main colonic metabolites from coffee chlorogenic acids may counteract TNF-α-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in the 3T3-L1 cell line, and thus, they present antiobesity potential.