Antioxidant Effects Research Articles

Distribution, Phytochemical Insights, and Cytotoxic Potential of the Sesbania Genus: A Comprehensive Review of Sesbania grandiflora, Sesbania sesban, and Sesbania cannabina.

This review evaluates the cytotoxic potential of the Sesbania genus, with a focus on Sesbania sesban, Sesbania grandiflora, and Sesbania cannabina. These species, known for their diverse phytochemical compositions, exhibit notable cytotoxic effects that suggest their utility in natural cancer treatments. Compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, and sesbagrandiforian A and B have been highlighted for their strong antioxidant and antiproliferative effects, further emphasizing their therapeutic potential. The genus Sesbania exhibits a wide range of in vitro and in vivo bioactivities. Extensive research on S. grandiflora has uncovered mechanisms such as the activation of caspase cascades and the induction of apoptosis, attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and alkaloids. Notably, sesbanimides derived from S. grandiflora seeds have demonstrated potent cytotoxic effects by disrupting mitochondrial function. While S. sesban and S. cannabina have been less extensively studied, early findings highlight their potential through the inhibition of key cancer pathways and the identification of bioactive compounds such as galactomannan derivatives and 2-arylbenzofurans. Notably, the galactomannan derivatives from S. sesban exhibit significant immune-modulating properties. Additionally, nanoparticles synthesized from Sesbania species, including Cadmium oxide and PEGylated silver nanoparticles, have demonstrated promising cytotoxic activity by disrupting mitosis and enhancing immune responses. While further research is warranted, the Sesbania genus offers a promising basis for the development of innovative anticancer therapies.

The activity of a herbal medicinal product of Phyllanthus niruri and Silybum marianum powdered extracts (Heptex®) in patients with apparent risk factors for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a phase II, multicentered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

BackgroundNonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized by damage and inflammation of hepatocytes. Some medicinal plants have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on liver cells. We aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Heptex® capsules containing 200 mg of Dukung Anak (a powdered extract from aerial parts of Phyllanthus niruri) and 100 mg of Milk Thistle (a powdered extract from fruits of Silybum marianum) in patients with an apparent risk factor for NASH.MethodsThis was a phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-arm, interventional clinical trial. Patients were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive placebo, low dose (one capsule) of Heptex®, or high dose (two capsules) of Heptex®. After 36 weeks, liver enzymes, Fib-4 score, lipid profile, CAP score, and kPa score were evaluated. Patients were monitored for safety throughout the treatment duration.ResultsA total of 146 patients were enrolled in the study. A significant decrease was observed in ALT levels in the low-dose group (57 IU/L to 40 IU/L, p = 0.026) and the high-dose group (61 IU/L to 47.5 IU/L, p < 0.0001) and in AST levels in the high-dose group (43.5 IU/L to 32 IU/L, p = 0.001), with no significant difference between the relative percent change in ALT (p = 0.465) or AST (p = 0.632) between the three groups. No significant difference was revealed between the three groups regarding the median change in Fib-4 score at the end of treatment (p = 0.985). No significant change in the lipid profile was observed in any of the three groups except for the total cholesterol level, which significantly decreased from 210 IU/L to 187 IU/L, p = 0.031 in the low-dose group.ConclusionHeptex® capsules were safe and well tolerated over a treatment period of 36 weeks. However, the hepatoprotective effect in patients at risk of NASH still needs further assessment using more accurate investigation tools, a larger sample size, and/ or higher doses of the combination.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered (registration date: 25/04/2022; trial registration number: NCT05343780)

Effects of Red Clover Isoflavones on Growth Performance, Immune Function, and Cecal Microflora of Mice.

Isoflavone components extracted from red clover have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune boosting effects. We hypothesize that red clover isoflavones (RCIs) achieve health-promoting effects via altering the gut microbiota. A total of 48 mice (20 ± 2 g) were randomly divided into a control group, low-dose group (0.05% RCIs in feed), middle-dose group (0.1% RCIs in feed), and high-dose group (0.2% RCIs in feed) with 12 mice per group. The feeding period was 20 d. The results showed that RCIs can increase the daily gain and decrease the ratio of feed to gain in mice. The organ indexes and blood biochemical indexes of the mice in each RCI group were in the normal range, indicating that RCIs do not damage liver or kidney function. RCI supplementation increased serum immunity and altered the microbial community structure in the cecum of the mice. RCIs can increase the diversity of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroidaceae, Muribaculaceae, and Akkermansiaceae, and reduced the pathogenic Staphylococcaceae. Therefore, supplementing the diet with RCIs results in improved growth performance and notable alterations in the cecal microbiota in mice, and has potential applications as a feed additive to improve livestock production.

Mangiferin Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Regulating the GAS6/Axl Signaling Pathway.

Ischemia reperfusion-induced myocardial injury is a prominent pathological feature in patients with coronary artery disease, contributing to significant mortality and morbidity rates. Mangiferin (MGF), the main active ingredient extracted from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge, has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-diabetes, and anti-tumor effects. The present study confirmed that the GAS6/Axl pathway was identified as a promising novel target for the treatment of myocardial ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. However, whether MGF exerts anti-myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury through GAS6/Axl is still unclear. In this study, BALB/c male mice and HL-1 cardiomyocytes were used to construct a model of IR and hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR) (or H2O2) injury invivo and invitro, respectively. MGF significantly improved cardiac function indicators, myocardial structure, myocardial enzymes, and mitochondrial function, together with reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in IR-injured mice. Invitro, MGF significantly increased cell viability, inhibited the release of LDH, reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis, and improved mitochondrial function in both HR and H2O2-injured HL-1 cells. In particular, the GAS6/Axl signaling pathway plays an important role in this process. Additionally, we also demonstrated that GAS6 gene knockout reversed the protective effect of MGF against HR and H2O2-injured cardiomyocytes. The present study confirmed that MGF has protective effects against myocardial IR injury by activating the GAS6/Axl pathway, providing a theoretical basis for MGF as a potential cardioprotective drug in the clinical setting of myocardial IR injury.

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fibrotic Effects of a Mixture of Polyphenols Extracted from "Navelina" Orange in Human Hepa-RG and LX-2 Cells Mediated by Cannabinoid Receptor 2.

Navelina oranges (Citrus sinensis) are rich in phytonutrients and bioactive compounds, especially flavonoids like hesperidin. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties of hesperidin (HE) and a polyphenol mixture from Navelina oranges (OE) in human hepatocytes (Hepa-RG) and hepatic stellate cells (LX-2), in order to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. In Hepa-RG cells, HE treatment increased expression of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R), which was associated with down-regulation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) but had minimal impact on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) levels. Conversely, OE treatment not only enhanced CB2R levels and reduced p38 MAPK, but also promoted a significant reduction in both COX-2 and TGF-β levels, suggesting that OE might be more effective in mitigating inflammatory and fibrotic processes than HE. In LX-2 cells, HE treatment caused a notable decrease in both COX-2 and TGF-β levels, reflecting its efficacy in targeting fibrosis-associated inflammation. OE treatment, on the other hand, reduced Nuclear Factor-Kappa B p65 (NF-κB) expression, a critical transcription factor involved in inflammatory responses, though it did not significantly affect COX-2. LX-2 cells induced to fibrosis with TGF-β and treated with HE and OE showed a reduction in the expression levels of several fibrosis markers. In addition, HE and OE showed antioxidant effects by increasing protein levels of Cu, Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1), Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD2) and catalase (CAT) and influencing the state of lipid peroxidation. Further research is needed to explore the effects of the treatments in activated hepatic stellate cells and in vivo liver disease models.

The Anticonvulsant and Antioxidant Effect of Rosa Moschata (J) Fruit Extract in Pentylenetetrazole induced Epileptic Mouse Model

Background: Rosa moschata (J) (RM (J)) is widely used as a traditional medicine in different ailments including central nervous system diseases, hepatic and gastrointestinal disease. The current study focused on the anticonvulsant effects and memory improvement property of RM (J) fruit extract by the modulation of oxidative stress markers and GABAA receptor in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced mice epileptic model. Methods: The epileptic mice model was developed using pentylenetetrazole (35 mg/kg). The extract were used at doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg. The seizure was evaluated according to the Racine Scale. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the Y Maze and Morris Water Maze behavioral tests. The antioxidant effect of RM (J) extract was measured by assessing the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT). Additionally, the effect of RM (J) extract on the expression of GABAA receptors was evaluated using the qPCR. Results: RM (J) fruit extract exhibited a significant (P&lt;0.5) dose-dependent improvement in memory compared to the mice treated with PTZ. Furthermore, the RM (J) extract significantly increased the levels of GSH and CAT and reduced LPO level compared to the PTZ group. The onset time of seizure was prolong while duration of seizure was significantly short in RM (J) extract treated group compared to PTZ group. Interestingly, there was a significant increase in the expression of GABAA receptors in the groups treated with the RM (J) extract, compared to the PTZ group. Conclusions: RM (J) extracts showed anticonvulsant effect and memory improvement potential due to the reduction of oxidative stress markers and enhanced in the expression of GABAA receptors.

Flavonoids for gastrointestinal tract local and associated systemic effects: A review of clinical trials and future perspectives.

Flavonoids are naturally occurring dietary phytochemicals with significant antioxidant effects aside from several health benefits. People often consume them in combination with other food components. Compiling data establishes a link between bioactive flavonoids and prevention of several diseases in animal models, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, gut dysbiosis, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). However, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the ineffectiveness of flavonoids contradicting rodent models, thereby challenging the validity of using flavonoids as dietary supplements. This review provides a clinical perspective to emphasize the effective roles of dietary flavonoids as well as to summarize their specific mechanisms in animals briefly. First, this review offers an in-depth elucidation of the metabolic processes of flavonoids within human, encompassing the small, large intestine, and the liver. Furthermore, the review provides a comprehensive overview of the various functions of flavonoids in the gastrointestinal tract, including hindering the breakdown and assimilation of macronutrients, such as polysaccharides and lipids, regulating gut hormone secretion as well as inhibition of mineral iron absorption. In the large intestine, an unabsorbed major portion of flavonoids interact with the gut flora leading to their biotransformation. Once absorbed and circulated in the bloodstream, bioactive flavonoids or their metabolites exert numerous beneficial systemic effects. Lastly, we examine the protective effects of flavonoids in several metabolic disorders, including endothelial dysfunction, MASLD, cardiovascular disease, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance. In conclusion, this review outlines the safety and future prospects of flavonoids in the field of health, especially in the prevention of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Effect of Antioxidants on the Gut Microbiome Profile and Brain Functions: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trial Studies.

Antioxidants are widely recognized for their potential health benefits, including their impact on cognitive function and gut microbiome modulation. Understanding these effects is essential for exploring their broader clinical applications. This review aims to evaluate the effects of antioxidants on the gut microbiome and cognitive function, with a focus on findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The studies involved human participants across a range of age groups, with interventions encompassing natural antioxidant sources, such as berries, as well as specific antioxidant vitamins. An extensive search across PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases identified six relevant RCTs, each evaluated for potential bias. These studies focused on a variety of antioxidant-rich products, including both naturally derived sources and supplemental forms. Antioxidants, including vitamins C, B2, and D, along with polyphenols such as xanthohumol, fermented papaya, peanuts, and berry extracts, demonstrate the potential to support cognitive function and promote gut health through mechanisms that modulate microbiome diversity and reduce inflammation. However, observed changes in microbiome diversity were modest and inconsistent across the studies. While preliminary evidence suggests that antioxidants may benefit gut health and cognitive function, the heterogeneity of existing studies limits their immediate clinical applicability. Additionally, more robust RCTs are needed to substantiate these findings and guide future interventions.

Effect of Rumex nervosus Leaf Extract on Eimeria exigua

Background: Coccidiosis is a serious parasitic disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, presents an important risk to rabbits’ health and production. Methods: Potential bioactive compounds in the extract were identified by FT-IR analysis and the total content of phenolics, tannins and flavonoids was calculated. In addition, enzyme inhibitory and antioxidant effects were investigated. Result: The phytochemical results of methanolic extract of the leaves of R. nervosus showed the presence of 14 compounds of active chemical constituents. In addition, the results showed that the methanolic extract had the amount of TPC (54.33±0.198 mg/g DW), TFC (21.51±0.155 mg/g DW) and TTC (29.37±1.43 mg/g DW). The sporulation inhibition rate between 72- and 96-hour exposures, as the rate rose significantly with an increasing incubation period (p less than 0.05). The extract has inhibitory abilities on tested enzymes á-amylase and-glucosidase.

Butyrate Supplementation Improves Intestinal Health and Growth Performance in Livestock: A Review.

Butyrate supplementation has gained considerable attention for its potential benefits in livestock, particularly concerning intestinal health and growth performance. This review synthesizes recent research on the diverse roles of butyrate, across various livestock species. As a short-chain fatty acid, butyrate is known for enhancing intestinal development, improving immune function, and modulating microbial diversity. Studies indicate that butyrate supports gut barrier integrity, reduces inflammation, and optimizes feed efficiency, especially during the critical weaning and post-weaning periods in calves, piglets, and lambs. Supplementation with butyrate in livestock has been shown to increase average daily gain (ADG), improve gut microbiota balance, promote growth, enhance gut health, boost antioxidant capacity, and reduce diarrhea. Additionally, butyrate plays a role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression through histone acetylation, influencing tissue development and immune modulation. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been demonstrated across various species, positioning butyrate as a potential therapeutic agent in animal nutrition. This review suggests that optimizing butyrate supplementation strategies to meet the specific needs of each species may yield additional benefits, establishing butyrate as an important dietary additive for enhancing growth performance and health in livestock.

Multifunctional Hydrogel with Photothermal ROS Scavenging and Antibacterial Activity Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing.

Poor diabetic wound healing poses a critical threat to human health. Excessive oxidative stress and increased susceptibility to bacterial infection are key issues that impede diabetic wound healing. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) have attracted increasing attention because of their unique antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Here, this work designs a near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)/CeO2/polydopamine (PDA) hydrogel with antibacterial and antioxidant effects. The hydrogel exhibits a stable, efficient, and controllable photothermal conversion capacity under NIR stimulation. The hydrogel can be used to construct a local microenvironment conducive to chronic diabetic wound healing. Significant antibacterial effects of the NIR-responsive GelMA/CeO2/PDA hydrogel on both Escherichia coli (E.coli) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are demonstrated by counting colony-forming units (CFUs) and in bacterial live/dead staining experiments. The strong antioxidant activity of hydrogels is demonstrated by measuring the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The effect of the NIR-responsive GelMA/CeO2/PDA hydrogel in terms of promoting diabetic wound healing is validated in full-thickness cutaneous wounds of diabetic rat models. Additionally, this work describes the mechanism by which the NIR-responsive GelMA/CeO2/PDA hydrogel promotes diabetic wound healing; the hydrogel inhibits the interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathway. This NIR-responsive, multifunctional hydrogel dressing provides a targeted approach to diabetic wound healing.

Unveiling the potential of bean proteins: Extraction methods, functional and structural properties, modification techniques, physiological benefits, and diverse food applications.

Bean proteins, known for their sustainability, versatility, and high nutritional value, represent a valuable yet underutilized resource, receiving less industrial attention compared to soy and pea proteins. This review examines the structural and molecular characteristics, functional properties, amino acid composition, nutritional value, antinutritional factors, and digestibility of bean proteins. Their applications in various food systems, including baked goods, juice and milk substitutes, meat alternatives, edible coatings, and 3D printing inks, are discussed. The physiological benefits of bean proteins, such as antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, are also presented, highlighting their potential for promoting well-being. Our review emphasizes the diversity of bean proteins and highlights ultrasound as the most effective extraction method among available techniques. Beyond their physiological benefits, bean proteins significantly enhance the structural, technological, and nutritional properties of food systems. The functionality can be further improved through various modification techniques, thereby expanding their applicability in the food industry. While studies have explored the impact of bean protein structure on their nutritional and functional properties, further research is needed to investigate advanced modification techniques and the structure-function relationship. This will enhance the utilization of bean proteins in innovative and sustainable food applications.

Green Extraction of Bioactives from Curcuma longa Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents: Unlocking Antioxidative, Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic, and Skin Depigmentation Potentials.

This study evaluates the efficiency of 20 Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) formulations for extracting curcuminoids and other bioactive compounds from turmeric and emphasize their ability to preserve and enhance antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and skin depigmentation effects. The NADES formulations, prepared using choline chloride (ChCl) combined with sugars, carboxylic acids, glycerol, amino acids, urea, polyols, and betaine, were assessed for their extraction efficiency based on the total phenolic content and curcumin concentration. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to characterize the synthesized NADES and confirm their chemical composition. Bioactivity evaluations included antioxidant assays (ABTS and DPPH), antidiabetic tests (α-amylase inhibition), antimicrobial assays, and skin depigmentation (tyrosinase inhibition). The results demonstrated that NADES significantly enhanced the extraction efficiency and bioactive properties of turmeric extracts compared to water as a conventional green solvent. NADES 18 (ChCl/1,2-propanediol/water 1:1:1) and NADES 19 (glycerol/betaine/water 1:1:3) exhibited the highest extraction yields, with curcumin concentrations of 30.73 ± 1.96 mg/g and 31.70 ± 2.02 mg/g, respectively, outperforming water (26.91 ± 1.72 mg/g), while NADES 17 (ChCl/1,2-propanediol/water 0.5:3:0.5:5) and NADES 20 (glycerol/lysine/water 1:1:3) exhibited the most potent antioxidant activity. Furthermore, NADES 14 (ChCl/lactic acid/water 1:2:5) demonstrated the strongest tyrosinase inhibition (98.7%), supporting its potential for skin-brightening applications, including notable α-amylase inhibition exceeding 90%. This study aligns with the principles of green chemistry, as NADES are effective and sustainable solvents for natural product extraction. The presenting benefits of improved extraction efficiency and enhanced bioactivities position NADES as a promising and eco-friendly approach for developing efficient bioactive compound extraction methodologies.

Protaetia brevitarsis Hydrolysate Mitigates Muscle Dysfunction and Ectopic Fat Deposition Triggered by a High-Fat Diet in Mice.

Obesity is a key factor in metabolic syndrome (MetS) development. Consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) accelerates the onset of obesity and associated metabolic complications. Protaetia brevitarsis (PB) has been traditionally utilized in Korean medicine for its antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anticancer, and hepatoprotective effects. However, specific effects of PB hydrolysate on skeletal muscles have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study sought to assess the influence of PB on HFD-induced MetS, focusing on the lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses mediated by AMP-activated protein kinase activation. To induce obesity, 6-week-old C57BL/6J mice were maintained on an HFD for 8 weeks, after which PB hydrolysate was orally administered for 16 weeks while the HFD regimen was sustained. A glucose tolerance test was conducted orally to evaluate glucose regulation, and forelimb grip strength was assessed upon completion of the experimental period. Histological assessments, serum biochemical analysis, lipid extraction, Western blot analysis, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed following euthanasia. PB significantly reduced ectopic lipid deposition in skeletal muscles, enhanced muscle strength, and improved insulin sensitivity by increasing fatty acid oxidation via AMP-activated protein kinase/carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 activation and inhibiting lipogenesis via stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 gene downregulation. Furthermore, PB alleviated HFD-induced low-grade chronic inflammation by decreasing systemic monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 levels, thereby reducing ectopic fat deposition. This study highlights the potential of PB as a nutraceutical to mitigate MetS in HFD-fed mice.

Histological Research and Phytochemical Characterization of Capsella bursa-pastoris Medik. from Bihor County, Romania.

Capsella bursa-pastoris Medik. (CBP) is a species with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and hepatoprotective effects. We have chosen to study this species because, although it is a common plant with a distinctive fruit appearance, its effects are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the histoanatomy of the vegetative, reproductive organs and to characterize CBP extracts in terms of bioactive compounds and its antioxidant capacity. This study investigated the quantitative chemical composition of this species using the HPLC method, revealing the total content in polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, and investigated the antioxidant potential through fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP assay), cupric ion (Cu2+) reduction, (CUPRAC assay), and a free radical scavenging method (DPPH). Our results show that CBP is a rich source of flavonoids, mainly from the extract obtained from the fruits; it has an antioxidant capacity, with the highest values being obtained from mature flowers and ripe fruits. Of the active principles, the highest amounts, according to HPLC determinations, were obtained in flowers and are represented by hyperoside. Thus, we can recommend the studied species for phytopharmaceutical preparations.

Gentiopicroside ameliorates psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice via regulating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting keratinocyte activation.

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic immune-mediated skin disease. Although many new strategies for psoriasis treatment have been developed, there is great need in clinic for treating psoriasis. Gentiopicroside (GPS), derived from Gentiana manshurica Kitagawa, has multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and antiviral activities. In this study, we investigated the potential effects of GPS in imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model and the underlying mechanisms. The mice were sensitized on their shaved back with IMQ cream for 7 days with or without topical application of 1% or 2% GPS cream. We showed that the application of GPS cream significantly ameliorated psoriasis-like skin lesions; GPS effect was better than that of calcipotriol. GPS rectified the immune cells infiltration and keratinocytes activation in the skin lesions, and significantly inhibited TNF-α/IFN-γ stimulated human keratinocyte (HaCaT) activation in vitro. Proteomic analysis from keratinocytes with and without GPS treatment prompted that GPS regulated the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, which was the most important pathway in regulating oxidative stress and inflammation. We demonstrated that GPS regulated the protein expression of p62 and Keap1, induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation followed by transcription of Nrf2 downstream antioxidant genes in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, the antioxidant effects of GPS were abolished in Nrf2-/- keratinocytes. Simultaneously, Nrf2-/- mice showed increased psoriasiform symptoms with a diminished protective effect in response to GPS treatment. Collectively, the study discloses that GPS inhibits keratinocyte activation and ameliorates psoriasis-like skin lesions in an Nrf2-dependent manner.

Disentangling the role of selenium in antagonizing the toxicity of arsenic and cadmium.

Cadmium (Cd) and inorganic arsenic (As) compounds are considered to be among the major public health hazards. This is due to both the high intrinsic toxicity of these substances and the often difficult to avoid exposure of the general population through contaminated water and food. One proposed method to reduce the toxic effects of As and Cd on animals and humans is the use of selenium (Se). As discussed in our previous article, laboratory studies show that this micronutrient can have a beneficial effect on the detoxification of As and Cd in the body through the formation of non-toxic complexes with these elements, as well as through the antioxidant effects of selenoproteins. New data that have emerged in recent years allow for a clearer description of the interaction between Se and As and Se and Cd. Human studies show that optimal levels of Se can have a beneficial effect in reducing the toxic effects associated with exposure to As or Cd. However, as Se levels in the body increase, the protective effects of Se may be reversed. Recent laboratory studies confirm the antagonistic effects of medium doses of Se toward Cd and As through the formation of nontoxic complexes, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, and induction of pro-survival pathways in cells. In conclusion, Se has a complex effect on As and Cd toxicity, with both benefits and potential risks, depending on the form of Se and its dose as a supplement or the status (level) of this micronutrient in the body.

Improvement of antioxidant protection and energy production in neurodegenerative processes in the brain caused by long-term alcoholism under the influence of Lophantus chinensis Benth extract

Long-term alcohol abuse causes psycho-emotional and cognitive impairment, including severe dementia. Oxidative stress is considered one of the main mechanisms in the cognitive disorders pathophysiology caused by long-term alcoholism. In this regard, the search for substances capable of correcting mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress that arise as a result of prolonged ethanol consumption is relevant. Of particular interest in the complex treatment of alcoholic encephalopathy is Chinese hyssop (Lophanthus chinensis), used in Tibetan and Mongolian traditional medicine for liver diseases, as well as a means of improving the functional state of the body and metabolism, slowing down the aging process. Material and methods. Alcohol intoxication was modeled in Wistar rats by per os administration of a 40 % ethanol solution in a volume of 10 ml/kg for six weeks. The L. chinensis dry extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg was administered to animals per os starting from the third week, an hour after ethanol. On day 45, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase, NADH dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase complex, concentration of ATP werei determined spectrophotometrically in the animal brain homogenate. Results. It was found that L. chinensis extract increases the activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase (by 10 %, р = 0.016, by 31 %, р = 0.001, by 30 %, р = 0.041, by 29 %, р = 0.009, respectively) and GSH content (by 24 %, р = 0.019), and also reduces the concentration of MDA (by 20 %, р = 0.014) in brain tissue. A decrease in the intensity of oxidative stress enhances the functioning of enzymatic complexes I (by 23 %, р = 0.017) and II of the mitochondrial respiratory chain (by 72 %, р = 0.001) and increases the ATP content (by 23 %, р = 0.029) in the rat’s brain. Conclusions. L. chinensis extract exhibits antioxidant effects and stimulates energy processes in neurodegenerative processes in the brain caused by long-term alcoholism.

Optimization of the Antibacterial Activity of a Three-Component Essential Oil Mixture from Moroccan Thymus satureioides, Lavandula angustifolia, and Origanum majorana Using a Simplex-Centroid Design.

The rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens has become a global health crisis, necessitating the development of alternative antimicrobial strategies. This study aimed to optimize the antibacterial effects of essential oils (EOs) from Thymus satureioides, Lavandula angustifolia, and Origanum majorana, enhancing their efficacy through optimized mixtures. This study utilized a simplex-centroid design to optimize the mixture ratios of EOs for maximal antibacterial and antioxidant effectiveness. The chemical profiles of the EOs were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antibacterial activity was assessed against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests, while antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays. The optimized essential oil mixtures demonstrated potent antibacterial activity, with MIC values of 0.097% (v/v) for E. coli, 0.058% (v/v) for S. aureus, and 0.250% (v/v) for P. aeruginosa. The mixture ratios achieving these results included 76% T. satureioides, and 24% O. majorana for E. coli, and varying proportions for other strains. Additionally, L. angustifolia essential oil exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 84.36 µg/mL (DPPH), and 139.61 µg/mL (ABTS), surpassing both the other EOs and standard antioxidants like BHT and ascorbic acid in the ABTS assay. The study successfully demonstrates that optimized mixtures of EOs can serve as effective natural antibacterial agents. The findings highlight a novel approach to enhance the applications of essential oils, suggesting their potential use in food preservation and biopharmaceutical formulations. This optimization strategy offers a promising avenue to combat antibiotic resistance and enhance food safety using natural products.

Resveratrol Alleviates NEFA-Induced Oxidative Damage in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells by Restoring Mitochondrial Function.

In periparturient dairy cows, high non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) caused by a severe negative energy balance induce oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction, which pose a severe challenge to the dairy industry. Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenolic compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and multiple other physiological effects. However, its effect on oxidative damage triggered by NEFAs in bovine mammary epithelial cells is rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of RES in NEFA-challenged BMECs. The results showed that RES ameliorated NEFA-induced oxidative damage by upregulating antioxidant enzyme expression and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, exogenous NEFAs resulted in a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, energy metabolism (NAD+/NADH ratio), abnormal mitochondrial structure and an increase in apoptosis levels. RES treatment restored mitochondrial function in NEFA-stressed BMECs, as evidenced by the increase in MMP, ATP generation and NAD+/NADH ratio accompanying the decline in mitochondrial structural abnormalities and cell apoptosis. In addition, in vivo studies in a mouse model of oxidative damage induced by high-fat diet (HFD) demonstrated that RES alleviated oxidative damage (decreased MDA content) and mitochondrial dysfunction (decreased expression of Drp1 and Fis1 and increased levels of Mfn2, Cyt C mRNA and ATP production) in mammary gland tissue. Overall, these findings suggested that RES could alleviate NEFA-induced oxidative damage in BMECs by modulating mitochondrial function, thereby contributing to the prevention and treatment of oxidative damage in perinatal dairy cows with a negative energy balance.