Activity Of Antioxidant Superoxide Dismutase Research Articles

Captopril's influence on Danio rerio embryonic development: Unveiling significant toxic outcomes at environmentally relevant concentrations

Anticipating a global increase in cardiovascular diseases, there is an expected surge in the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, notably captopril (CAP). This heightened usage raises significant environmental apprehensions, mainly due to limited knowledge regarding CAP's toxic effects on aquatic species. In response to these concerns, the current study aimed to tackle this knowledge gap by evaluating the potential influence of nominal concentrations of CAP (0.2–2000 μg/L) on the embryonic development of Danio rerio. The findings revealed that CAP at all concentrations, even at concentrations considered environmentally significant (0.2 and 2 μg/L), induced various malformations in the embryos, ultimately leading to their mortality. Main malformations included pericardial edema, craniofacial malformation, scoliosis, tail deformation, and yolk sac deformation. In addition, CAP significantly altered the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase across all concentrations. Simultaneously, it elevated lipid peroxidation levels, hydroperoxides, and carbonylic proteins in the embryos, eliciting a substantial oxidative stress response. Likewise, CAP, at all concentrations, exerted significant modulatory effects on the expression of genes associated with apoptosis (bax, bcl2, p53, and casp3), organogenesis (tbx2a, tbx2b, and irx3b), and ion exchange (slc12a1 and kcnj1) in Danio rerio embryos. Both augmentation and reduction in the expression levels of these genes characterized this modulation. The Pearson correlation analysis indicated a close association between oxidative damage biomarkers and the expression patterns of all examined genes with the elevated incidence of malformations and mortality in the embryos. In summary, it can be deduced that CAP poses a threat to aquatic species. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to enhance our understanding of the environmental implications of this pharmaceutical compound.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Zinc Sulfate Alleviate Boron Toxicity in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.).

Boron toxicity significantly hinders the growth and development of cotton plants, therefore affecting the yield and quality of this important cash crop worldwide. Limited studies have explored the efficacy of ZnSO4 (zinc sulfate) and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) in alleviating boron toxicity. Nanoparticles have emerged as a novel strategy to reduce abiotic stress directly. The precise mechanism underlying the alleviation of boron toxicity by ZnO NPs in cotton remains unclear. In this study, ZnO NPs demonstrated superior potential for alleviating boron toxicity compared to ZnSO4 in hydroponically cultivated cotton seedlings. Under boron stress, plants supplemented with ZnO NPs exhibited significant increases in total fresh weight (75.97%), root fresh weight (39.64%), and leaf fresh weight (69.91%). ZnO NPs positively affected photosynthetic parameters and SPAD values. ZnO NPs substantially reduced H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) by 27.87% and 32.26%, MDA (malondialdehyde) by 27.01% and 34.26%, and O2- (superoxide anion) by 41.64% and 48.70% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. The application of ZnO NPs increased the antioxidant activities of SOD (superoxide dismutase) by 82.09% and 76.52%, CAT (catalase) by 16.79% and 16.33%, and POD (peroxidase) by 23.77% and 21.66% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. ZnO NP and ZnSO4 application demonstrated remarkable efficiency in improving plant biomass, mineral nutrient content, and reducing boron levels in cotton seedlings under boron toxicity. A transcriptome analysis and corresponding verification revealed a significant up-regulation of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, photosynthesis pathway, and ABC transporter genes with the application of ZnO NPs. These findings provide valuable insights for the mechanism of boron stress tolerance in cotton and provide a theoretical basis for applying ZnO NPs and ZnSO4 to reduce boron toxicity in cotton production.

Assessing the impact of COVID-19 era drug combinations on hepatic functionality: A thorough investigation in adult Danio rerio

Current and thorough information on the ecotoxicological consequences of pharmaceuticals is accessible globally. However, there remains a substantial gap in knowledge concerning the potentially toxic effects of COVID-19 used drugs, individually and combined, on aquatic organisms. Given the factors above, our investigation assumes pivotal importance in elucidating whether or not paracetamol, dexamethasone, metformin, and their tertiary mixtures might prompt histological impairment, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the liver of zebrafish. The findings indicated that all treatments, except paracetamol, augmented the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAD), along with elevating the levels of oxidative biomarkers such as lipid peroxidation (LPX), hydroperoxides (HPC), and protein carbonyl content (PCC). Paracetamol prompted a reduction in the activities SOD and CAT and exhibited the most pronounced toxic response when compared to the other treatments. The gene expression patterns paralleled those of oxidative stress, with all treatments demonstrating overexpression of bax, bcl2, and p53. The above suggested a probable apoptotic response in the liver of the fish. Nevertheless, our histological examinations revealed that none of the treatments induced an apoptotic or inflammatory response in the hepatocytes. Instead, the observed tissue alterations encompassed leukocyte infiltration, sinusoidal dilatation, pyknosis, fatty degeneration, diffuse congestion, and vacuolization. In summary, the hepatic toxicity elicited by COVID-19 drugs in zebrafish was less pronounced than anticipated. This attenuation could be attributed to metformin's antioxidant and hormetic effects.

Overexpression of OsDUF6 increases salt stress tolerance in rice

BackgroundSoil salinity is one of the primary environmental stresses faced in rice production. When plants are exposed to salt stress, a series of cellular balances will be disrupted. Dufulin is an immune-induced antiviral agent used in plants. The DUF gene family influences plant response to abiotic stress, and the functional role of OsDUF6(ABA98726.1) in rice response to salt stress is being investigated here.ResultsBased on the transcriptome analysis of Dufulin treatment in inducing salt tolerance in rice, we selected the OsDUF6 protein located on the cell membrane and studied its molecular function by overexpressing OsDUF6. Salt-induced decreases in root, stem, and leaf length and increased leaf yellowing rate and Na+ concentration in the wild-type plant were mitigated in the overexpressed lines. OsDUF6 overexpression increased the enzymatic antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. OsDUF6 also played a positive role in Na+ transport as reflected by the increased growth of a salt-sensitive yeast mutant complemented with OsDUF6 in the presence of salt stress. In addition, Reverse transcription quantitative PCR analysis confirmed that the overexpression of OsDUF6 significantly changed the expression level of other genes related to growth and stress tolerance.ConclusionsCombined with previously published data, our results supported the observation that OsDUF6 is an important functional factor in Dufulin-induced promotion of salt stress tolerance in rice.

Effects of hormopriming and pretreatment with gibberellic acid on fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) seed germination

Various approaches are used to improve crop production. Seed priming is one of the simplest and least expensive methods currently used to ensure rapid and uniform yields. Our study highlights the role of priming and imbibition in improving seed germination. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of seed imbibition and hormopriming with 0.1 mM gibberellic acid (GA3) on germination performance and biochemical changes in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) radicles. The results showed that hydropriming and imbibition with GA3 significantly improved germination performance and radicle growth. Concurrently, treatments induced stimulation of the antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase, ascorbic peroxidase, catalase and guaiacol peroxidase, and decreased lipid peroxidation, stimulated an increase in total non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione content. Accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and cytochemical analysis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ confirmed the role of imbibition in stimulating ROS. Interestingly the effects of imbibition with gibberellic acid were more effective then hormopriming, probably due to the partial degradation of GA3 during dehydration process.

Isoenzyme characterization of Leishmania infantum toward checking the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase

BackgroundLeishmania infantum is the major causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis in Mediterranean regions. Isoenzyme electrophoresis (IE), as a biochemical technique, is applied in the characterization of Leishmania species. The current study attempted to investigate the isoenzyme patterns of logarithmic and stationary promastigotes and axenic amastigotes (amastigote-like) of L. infantum using IE. The antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) was also checked in the aforementioned forms.MethodAfter L. infantum cultivation and obtaining logarithmic and stationary promastigotes, axenic amastigotes were achieved by incubation of stationary promastigotes at 37 °C for 48 h. The lysate samples were prepared and examined for six enzymatic systems including glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), nucleoside hydrolase 1 (NH1), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), glucose-phosphate isomerase (GPI), malic enzyme (ME), and phosphoglucomutase (PGM). Additionally, the antioxidant activity of SOD and GPX was measured.ResultsGPI, MDH, NH1, and G6PD enzymatic systems represented different patterns in logarithmic and stationary promastigotes and axenic amastigotes of L. infantum. PGM and ME showed similar patterns in the aforementioned forms of parasite. The highest level of SOD activity was determined in the axenic amastigote form and GPX activity was not detected in different forms of L. infantum.ConclusionThe characterization of leishmanial-isoenzyme patterns and the measurement of antioxidant activity of crucial antioxidant enzymes, including SOD and GPX, might reveal more information in the biology, pathogenicity, and metabolic pathways of Leishmania parasites and consequently drive to designing novel therapeutic strategies in leishmaniasis treatment.

Meta-topolin and silica nanoparticles induced vigorous carnation plantlet via regulation of antioxidant status and mineral absorption

This study is an attempt to explore the potential of meta-topolin (MT) and silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) in carnation micropropagation - an in vitro vitrification sensitive cut flower. Among MT concentrations (0.5 mg/L - 3.0 mg/L), 1.0 mg/L MT treatment showed a significant increase in shoot height, leaf length, chlorophyll content, dry weight and dry matter index (DM). However, MT concentration > 2.5 mg/L resulted in increased number of shoots and vitrification. Beside different concentrations SiNPs (0.1 mg/L - 3.0 mg/L) were tested in shoot multiplication, chlorophyll content and DM increased; in contrast, the number of shoots, shoot height and other growth indicators all decreased significantly. The results indicated that MT improved shoot multiplication and reduced vitrification, while SiNPs were less suitable for this stage due to limited water absorption of shoots. Interestingly, SiNPs induced compact shoot structure and stimulated root system development, as well as induced densely closed stomata. Furthermore, the presence of SiNPs increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes Catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Ascorbate peroxidase (APX); besides, SiNPs showed negative correlation with Cu, K and Ca uptake but significantly improved Mg, Fe and Si uptake. However, the plantlets derived from SiNPs showed 2.1–2.8-fold decrease in shoot height compared to the control but significantly increased chlorophyll content, DM index, primary root length and diameter as well as lateral root formation. At the highly tested concentrations of 2.0 mg/L - 3.0 mg/L SiNPs, a decrease in growth, uptake of Mg, Fe, Si and explosion of CAT, APX and SOD antioxidant activity was found, which presumably express stress-induced SiNPs. Nevertheless, carnation plantlets derived from SiNPs showed almost complete survival and well growth in greenhouse conditions. These findings suggest that MT and SiNPs can be used to stimulate growth, reduce vitrification, and harden carnation plantlet in practical micropropagation.

Analysis of antioxidants in water striders (Hemiptera: Gerridae) as bioindicator of water pollution.

The antioxidant enzyme system is an important defense mechanism to cope with Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) produced due to exposure to heavy metals. In the present study lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni) in water and the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) was investigated in three species (Metrocoris communis, Limnogonus fossarum fossarum, and Aquarius adelaidis) of water striders collected from the industrial triangle of Punjab, Pakistan. The results of present study revealed that Pb, Cr, As, Cd and Ni were according to the permissible amount of WHO. The antioxidant activity of SOD, CAT and POD was found significantly different among species against oxidative stress, but found the highest activity of determining parameters in A. adelaidis. This is one of the pioneer studies in Pakistan reporting the role of water striders as a bioindicator of heavy metals present in the water through antioxidants enzyme variations. The current results supported that variant level of antioxidant enzyme activities in different species of water strider were reflective of heavy metal pollution in the Industrial triangle of Punjab, Pakistan and will be a useful ecotoxicological tools to evaluate the detrimental effects of heavy metal pollutants in aquatic organisms.

The Role of Silver Nanoparticles in Response of In Vitro Boysenberry Plants to Drought Stress

Drought is one of the leading abiotic factors limiting morphological and physiological activities in blackberry cultivation. In this study, the effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on some morphological and biochemical processes in boysenberry (Rubus ursinus Chamisso and Schlenhtendal) under drought stress were investigated. The experiment was performed with three drought stress levels simulated with Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (0, 4, 8%) and three AgNP treatments (0, 0.1, 0.2 mg L−1) in vitro conditions. Drought stress reduced root and shoot development of boysenberry plants grown in vitro. The addition of AgNPs significantly alleviated the adverse effect of drought stress and increased the plant growth parameters. Antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes increased in boysenberry leaves when treated with AgNPs under drought conditions, while the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased. As a result of the study, 0.1 mg L−1 AgNPs is recommended as the most effective dose to promote the growth and development of in vitro boysenberry plants under drought stress.

CARDIOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF CALLIANDRA PORTORICENSIS LEAF ETHANOL EXTRACT AGAINST KEROSENE VAPOUR INDUCED CARDIOTOXICITY IN MALE ALBINO RATS

Aim and objective: This study investigated the cardioprotective activities of Calliandra portoricensis leaf ethanol extract (CPLEE) on kerosene vapour–induced cardiotoxic male albino rats. Methods: Twenty-five male albino rats (120-150 g) were grouped into five groups (n=5). Group 1 received distilled water (normal control), while CPLEE constituted doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg b.wt p.o were administered once daily for the last 4 weeks to animals in group 4 and 5 respectively.  Group 2 received kerosene vapour1.0 mL/kg body wt by inhalation for 4 weeks to induce toxicity, while group 3 received vitamin C 200 mg/kg p.o. Serum and cardiac samples were collected and used for the biochemical analyses. Results: Qualitative phytochemical analysis of CPLEE revealed the presence of different phytochemicals including flavonoids, tannin, saponin, alkaloids, cardiac-glycosides, etc. CPLEE caused a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP and LDH in the treated kerosene vapour groups in contrast to the untreated kerosene vapour induced cardiotoxic group. CPLEE showed potentials to mop-up free radicals generated by kerosene, by significantly reducing (p<0.05) lipid peroxidative-product (malondialdehyde, MDA) levels and increasing antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione (GSH) in dose dependent manner in the treated kerosene vapour groups compared to the untreated kerosene vapor-induced cardiotoxic group. Conclusion: The findings suggests that the CPLEE have the capacity to improving cardiac functions at safe doses possibly due to its abundant phytochemicals and antioxidants that offers protections against kerosene vapour-induced oxidative-damage.                          Peer Review History: Received: 15 June 2023; Revised: 20 July; Accepted: 23 August, Available online: 15 September 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Iman Muhammad Higazy, National Research Center, Egypt, imane.higazy@hotmail.com Received file:                             Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my Prof. Ali Gamal Ahmed Al-kaf, Sana'a university, Yemen, alialkaf21@gmail.com

Redox dysregulation in imaging professionals occupationally exposed to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation

Purpose: Imaging professionals are occupationally exposed to chronic ionizing radiation (IR) and non-ionizing radiation (NIR). This study aimed to investigate the influence of occupational radiation exposure on oxidative stress and antioxidant levels based on blood biomarkers in different hospital imaging professional groups. Materials and methods: The study groups included 66 imaging professionals occupationally exposed to IR (n = 58, 43 diagnostic radiography (G1), seven nuclear medicine (G2), eight radiation therapy (G3)), and NIR (n = 8, ultrasound imaging (G4)) and 60 non-exposed controls. Blood levels of superoxide (O2 •−) as an index of oxidative stress, and the antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG), and catalase (CAT) were measured. Results: The blood values of O2 •−, SOD, and CAT were significantly higher in imaging professionals occupationally exposed to radiation than in the control group (p < .05), while a significant decrease in the ratio of GSH/GSSG was observed (p < .05). The results from the NIR group were significantly higher compared to IR group. Conclusions: Based on these results, chronic exposure to radiation (IR and NIR) is associated with redox dysregulation that may result in damages to cellular biomolecules including lipids, proteins and DNA. Further studies are needed to determine the impact of redox dysregulation and the need for periodic examination among imaging professionals occupationally exposed to IR and NIR.

Fucoxanthin, a marine derived carotenoid, attenuates surgery-induced cognitive impairments via activating Akt and ERK pathways in aged mice

BackgroundFucoxanthin is the most abundant marine carotenoid derived from brown seaweeds, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, and might be benefit for the treatment of neurological disorders. Post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a neurological symptom with learning and memory impairments, mainly affecting the elderly after surgery. However, there is no effective treatments for this symptom. PurposesIn this study, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of fucoxanthin against POCD in aged mice after surgery. Study design and methodsThe animal model of POCD was established in 12 – 14 month aged mice with a laparotomy. Curcumin was used as a positive control. The beneficial effects of fucoxanthin on POCD was analyzed by behavioral tests. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). And the expressions of key proteins in the Akt and ERK signaling pathways were analyzed by Western blotting analysis. The morphology of microglial cells and astrocytes was explored by immunohistochemical staining. The activity of antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured by anti-oxidative enzyme activity assays. ResultsFucoxanthin at 100 – 200 mg/kg significantly attenuated cognitive dysfunction, with a similar potency as curcumin, in aged mice after surgery. In addition, fucoxanthin and curcumin significantly increased the expression of pAkt, prevented the activation of microglial cells and astrocytes, and inhibited the secretion of pro-inflammatory interleukin-1β (IL - 1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Furthermore, fucoxanthin and curcumin elevated the ERK pathway and potently increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Most importantly, U0126, an inhibitor of the ERK pathway, and wortmannin, an inhibitor of the Akt pathway, significantly abolished the cognitive-enhancing effects, as well as the inhibition of neuroinflammation and the reduction of oxidative stress, induced by fucoxanthin in aged mice after surgery. ConclusionFucoxanthin might be developed as a functional food or drug for the treatment of POCD by inhibiting neuroinflammation and enhancing antioxidant capacity via the activation of the Akt and ERK signaling pathways.

High molecular weight hyaluronic acid drastically reduces chemotherapy-induced mucositis and apoptotic cell death

Oral and intestinal mucositis (OIM) are debilitating inflammatory diseases initiated by oxidative stress, resulting in epithelial cell death and are frequently observed in cancer patients undergoing chemo-radiotherapy. There are currently few preventative strategies for this debilitating condition. Therefore, the development of a safe and effective mucositis mitigating strategy is an unmet medical need. Hyaluronic acid (HA) preparations have been tentatively used in oral mucositis. However, the protective effects of HA in chemotherapy-induced mucositis and their underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to assess these mechanisms using multiple formulations of enriched HA (Mucosamin®), cross-linked (xl-), and non-crosslinked high molecular weight HA (H-MW-HA) in an oxidative stress-induced model of human oral mucosal injury in vitro and an in vivo murine model of 5-flurouracil (5-FU)-induced oral/intestinal mucositis. All tested HA formulations protected against oxidative stress-induced damage in vitro without inducing cytotoxicity, with H-MW-HA also significantly reducing ROS production. Daily supplementation with H-MW-HA in vivo drastically reduced the severity of 5-FU-induced OIM, prevented apoptotic damage and reduced COX-2 enzyme activity in both the oral and intestinal epithelium. In 5-FU-injected mice, HA supplementation also significantly reduced serum levels of IL-6 and the chemokine CXCL1/KC, while the serum antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase was elevated. Our data suggest that H-MW-HA attenuates 5-FU-induced OIM, at least partly, by impeding apoptosis, inhibiting of oxidative stress and suppressing inflammatory cytokines. This study supports the development of H-MW-HA preparations for preventing OIM in patients receiving chemotherapy.

Ru360 Alleviates Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in Aged Mice by Inhibiting MCU-Mediated Mitochondrial Dysfunction.

Ru360, a selective inhibitor of mitochondrial calcium uptake, maintains mitochondrial calcium homeostasis. To evaluate whether mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU)-mediated mitochondrial function is associated with the pathological process of Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), elucidate its relationship with neuroinflammation, and observe whether the relevant pathological process can be improved with Ru360. Aged mice underwent experimental open abdominal surgery after anesthesia. Open field tests, Novel object recognition tests and Y Maze Tests were used to conduct behavioral experiments. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, the levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), intra-mitochondrial calcium, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the activity of antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the hippocampus of mice were detected using kits. The expression of proteins was detected using Western blot. After treatment with Ru360, MCU-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction was inhibited, neuroinflammation was reduced, and the learning ability of the mice was improved after surgery. Our study demonstrated that mitochondrial function plays a crucial role in the pathology of POCD, and using Ru360 to improve mitochondrial function may be a new and necessary direction for the treatment of POCD.

Evaluation of micronuclei and antioxidant status in hospital radiation workers occupationally exposed to low-dose ionizing radiation

PurposeThere is scientific evidence that ionizing radiation (IR) can be responsible for various health hazards that are one of the concerns in occupational exposure. This study was performed to evaluate DNA damage and antioxidant status in hospital workers who are occupationally exposed to low doses of IR.Materials and methodsIn this study, twenty occupationally exposed to low doses of IR (CT and angiography) comprising with control groups which matched them. In order to investigate the effects of chronic irradiation of radiation workers, Micronuclei (MN) frequency and the antioxidant activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) were measured. Then, to check adaptation against high challenge dose, the samples (in all groups) were irradiated in vitro and MN frequency was compared. Finally, to investigated the effect of the high dose after the acute and chronic low dose of ionizing radiation, MN frequency was compared in two groups (the control group that was to in-vitro irradiated (acute low dose + high dose) and radiation workers (chronic low dose + high dose)).ResultsMN frequency in the occupationally exposed group (n = 30) increased significantly when compared to the control group (p-value < 0.0001). However, chronic irradiation of radiation workers could not lead to an adaptive Sresponse, while acute low-doses could produce this effect (p-value ˂ 0.05). In addition, the activity levels of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and TAC were not statistically different between the radiation workers and the control group (p-value > 0.05).ConclusionsWe observed that exposure to low doses of IR leads to increased cytogenetic damage, could not cause an adaptive-response, and improve antioxidant capacity in radiation workers. Controlling healthcare workers' exposure is the first step to improving the health of hospital workers and the quality of patient care, thus decreasing human and economic costs.

Exogenous IL-10 posttreatment along with TLR4 and TNFR1 blockade improves tissue antioxidant status by modulating sepsis-induced macrophage polarization.

Multi-organ dysfunction is one of the major reasons behind the high mortality of sepsis throughout the world. With the pathophysiology of sepsis remaining largely unknown, the uncontrolled reactive oxygen species (ROS) production along with the decreased antioxidants contributes to the progression toward septic shock. Being the effector cells of the innate immunity system, macrophages secrete both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators during inflammation. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding to toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) releases TNF-α, which initiates pro-inflammatory events through tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) signaling. However, it is counteracted by the anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10) causing decreased oxidative stress. Our study thus aimed to assess the effects of exogenous IL-10 treatment post-neutralization of TLR4 and TNFR1 (by anti-TLR4 antibody and anti-TNFR1 antibody, respectively) in an in vivo murine model of LPS-sepsis. We have also examined the tissue-specific antioxidant status in the spleen, liver, and lungs along with the serum cytokine levels in adult male Swiss albino mice to determine the functional association with the disease. The results showed that administration of recombinant IL-10 post-neutralization of the receptors was beneficial in shifting the macrophage polarization to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. IL-10 treatment significantly downregulated the free radicals production resulting in diminished lipid peroxidase (LPO) levels. The increased antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GRX ) conferred protection against LPS-induced sepsis. Western blot data further confirmed diminished expressions of TLR4 and TNFR1 along with suppressed stress-activated protein kinases/Jun amino-terminal kinases (SAPK/JNK) and increased SOD and CAT expressions, which altogether indicated that neutralization of TLR4 and TNFR1 along with IL-10 posttreatment might be a potential therapeutic measure for the treatment of sepsis.

Selenium toxicity and bioaccumulation in selenium-enriched fly (Chrysomya megacephala) maggots.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for human health, and as a potential animal feed, the Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) fly is rich in protein and fat. By using different concentrations of sodium selenite (0, 30, 50, 70mgkg-1), the possibility of biological Se enrichment in C. megacephala (Fabricius) maggots (CMMs) was investigated. The accumulation, Se speciation, enzymatic activity, and concentrations of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), and cadmium (Cd) in the maggots were also determined. Transcriptomics was also used to investigate the mechanism of the Se response to CMM genes. The results showed that the CMMs had a survival rate of > 80% at Se exposure concentrations ranging from 0 to 100mgkg-1. The optimal concentration of sodium selenite for CMM growth was 50mgkg-1, and the weight, protein content, and total Se accumulation of the larvae (10.8g, 53.5%, and 72.6 ± 3.36mgkg-1 (DW), respectively) were considerably higher than the control and other exposure doses (p < 0.05). In addition, Se improved the ability of maggots to absorb Cu and Zn, decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxidation, but improved the antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Furthermore, Se negatively affected the absorption of Cd and Cr. According to the transcriptomic findings, Se supplementation can boost protein synthesis and control both antioxidant and non-antioxidant enzyme activity in CMMs. Therefore, our findings showed that Se-enriched CMMs may counteract the toxicity of Cd and Cr, and Se is an effective supplement for improving the consumption safety of cultured animals fed containing CMMs.

Inhibitory Effect of Styrylpyrone Extract of Phellinus linteus on Hepatic Steatosis in HepG2 Cells.

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is estimated to be approximately about 25.24% of the population worldwide. NAFLD is a complex syndrome and is characterized by a simple benign hepatocyte steatosis to more severe steatohepatitis in the liver pathology. Phellinus linteus (PL) is traditionally used as a hepatoprotective supplement. Styrylpyrone-enriched extract (SPEE) obtained from the PL mycelia has been shown to have potential inhibition effects on high-fat- and high-fructose-diet-induced NAFLD. In the continuous study, we aimed to explore the inhibitory effects of SPEE on free fatty acid mixture O/P [oleic acid (OA): palmitic acid (PA); 2:1, molar ratio]-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells. Results showed that SPEE presented the highest free radical scavenging ability on DPPH and ABTS, and reducing power on ferric ions, better than that of partitions obtained from n-hexane, n-butanol and distilled water. In free-fatty-acid-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells, SPEE showed an inhibition effect on O/P-induced lipid accumulation of 27% at a dosage of 500 μg/mL. As compared to the O/P induction group, the antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase were enhanced by 73%, 67% and 35%, respectively, in the SPEE group. In addition, the inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) were significantly down-regulated by the SPEE treatment. The expressions of anti-adipogenic genes involved in hepatic lipid metabolism of 5' adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) were enhanced in the SPEE supplemented HepG2 cells. In the protein expression study, p-AMPK, SIRT1 and PGC1-α were significantly increased to 121, 72 and 62%, respectively, after the treatment of SPEE. Conclusively, the styrylpyrone-enriched extract SPEE can ameliorate lipid accumulation and decrease inflammation and oxidative stress through the activation of SIRT1/AMPK/PGC1-α pathways.

Assessment of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Rat Blood.

Redox status assessments are time-consuming, require a large volume of samples and great reagent amounts, and are not adequately described for methodological reproducibility. Here, the objective was to standardize redox balance determination, based on previously described spectrophotometric tests in pregnant rats, to improve precision, time dispensed, and the volume of samples and reagents, while maintaining accuracy and adequate cost benefits. This protocol summarizes oxidative stress markers, which focus on spectrophotometric tests for the assessment of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, reduced thiol groups, and hydrogen peroxide, as well as the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in washed erythrocyte and serum samples from full-term pregnant rats. For non-pregnant rats and other species, it is necessary to standardize these determinations, especially the sample volume. All measurements were normalized by the estimated protein concentrations in each sample. To establish optimum conditions for the reproducibility of the proposed methods, we describe all changes made in each assay's steps based on the reference method reassessed for the new standardizations. Furthermore, the calculations of the concentrations or activities of each marker are presented. Thus, we demonstrate that the analysis of serum samples is easier and faster, but it is impossible to detect catalase activity. Furthermore, the proposed methods can be applied for redox balance determination, especially using smaller reagent amounts and lower sample volumes in lesser time without losing accuracy, as is required in obtaining samples during rat pregnancy.

Characterization and insecticidal activity of two natural formulation types against the scale insect (Parlatoria ziziphi) and their biochemical effects on Citrus aurantium

BackgroundThe scale insect, Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas) (Diaspididae: Hemiptera), is one of the most serious insects in citrus orchards in Egypt. The efficiency of two different formulation types (emulsifiable concentrates (EC) and nanoemulsions) based on the essential oils Artemisia herba-alba (Asso.) (Asterales: Asteraceae) and Laurus nobilis (L.) (Laurales: Lauraceae) at two concentrations of 3 and 5%, compared with the commercial mineral oil, Active Cable, was examined against P. ziziphi. The green formulations were named Artemisia and Laury relative to A. herba-alba and L. nobilis, respectively. The physicochemical properties of the tested formulations have been studied.ResultsAll the EC formulations of the essential oils (EOs) as well as the nanoemulsions with ratios of EOs to Tween 1:1.5 (Artemisia) and 1:2 (Laury) passed all the tested characteristics. The droplet sizes of the successful nanoemulsions’ formulations by the ultrasonic emulsification were 153.7, 113.4 nm for Artemisia and 139.3, 89.4 nm for Laury at 3 and 5% concentrations, respectively. Laury EC caused average reductions of 92.79 and 94.94% (nymphs and females) when applied at 3 and 5%, respectively, while the same oil prepared as nanoemulsions caused average reductions of 50.02 and 55.32% at the same concentrations, compared with 91.74% reduction resulted from spraying Active Cable. Moreover, Artemisia caused reduction percentages of 74.97, 91.52 for EC and 43.7, 54.01 for nanoemulsions, sprayed at 3 and 5%, respectively. Although EC emulsions were more effective in reducing insect populations than nanoemulsion formulations, the efficiency of nanoemulsions gradually increased with time elapsed. The antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and polyphenol oxidase enzymes were researched. It is recognized that insect infestations increase plant enzyme activity to defend them against insect attack. The results revealed a significant reduction of all the examined enzymes which were more obvious for EC emulsions than nanoemulsions.ConclusionsThe EC formulations originated from the EOs, especially Laury 3% EC and Artemisia 5% EC, could be an alternative to the traditional insecticides for controlling the scale insect, P. ziziphi.