Gene Expression Of Antioxidant Enzymes Research Articles

Rosmarinic acid mitigates intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress in bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeiana) fed high soybean meal diets

High proportions of soybean meal in aquafeed have been confirmed to induce various intestinal pathologies. This study aims to investigate the regulatory effects of rosmarinic acid (RA), an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, when added to high soybean meal feeds in different doses, (0, 0.5, 1, and 4 g/kg). During the 56-day feeding trial, results indicated that, compared to the control group without RA (0 g/kg), the 1 g/kg and 4 g/kg RA groups increased bullfrog survival rates and total weight gain while reducing feed coefficient. Additionally, these doses markedly suppressed the expression of key intestinal inflammatory markers (tlr5, myd88, tnfα, il1β, cxcl8, cxcl12) and the activity and content of intestinal antioxidants (CAT, MDA, GSH, GPX). Concurrently, RA significantly downregulated the transcription levels of antioxidant-related genes (cat, gpx5, cyba, cybb, mgst, gclc, gsta, gstp), suggesting RA's potential to alleviate intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress induced by high soybean meal and to help downregulate and restore normal expression of antioxidant enzyme genes. However, the 0.5 g/kg RA group did not show a significant improvement in survival rates; instead, it upregulated the transcription of some antioxidant genes (cat, gpx5, cyba, cybb), revealing the complexity and dose-dependency of RA's antioxidant action. Furthermore, RA supplementation significantly reshaped the intestinal microbial community structure and relative abundance in bullfrogs, particularly affecting the genera Hafnia, Phascolarctobacterium, and Lactococcus. Notably, high doses of RA (1 g/kg, 4 g/kg) were able to downregulate pathways associated with the enrichment of gut microbiota in diseases such as Parkinson's, Staphylococcus aureus infection, and Systemic lupus erythematosus, suggesting its potential in anti-inflammatory action and health maintenance to prevent potential diseases.

Differential Antioxidant Enzyme Gene Expression and Functional Analysis of Pyridaben-Susceptible and -Resistant Strains of Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae) under High Temperature Stress

Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae) has caused serious economic losses on some crops (soybean, corn, and cotton) in China, and has developed resistance to most acaricides. Our laboratory study found that T. truncatus was resistant to pyridaben and also adapted to high temperature (34–40 °C). High temperature stress may cause arthropods to produce a large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing oxidative damage. Antioxidant enzymes, as the main antioxidants, can reduce the damage caused by excessive ROS in arthropods. In order to study the adaptation mechanism of the pyridaben-resistant strain of T. truncatus to high temperature and the role of antioxidant enzyme genes under high temperature stress, four antioxidant enzyme genes, TtSOD, TtPOD3, TtPOD4, and TtGSTs2, were screened according to the transcriptome sequencing data of pyridaben-susceptible and -resistant strains in T. truncatus. Firstly, the phylogeny and structure analyses of these four genes were carried out. Then, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) technology was used to analyze the gene expression patterns of antioxidant enzymes in two strains of T. truncatus at three different high temperature ranges (34 °C, 38 °C, and 42 °C). The results showed that the expression levels of four antioxidant enzyme genes of two strains of T. truncatus were induced by high temperature stress, and the expression levels of antioxidant enzyme genes were significantly different in each development state. The gene expression of antioxidant enzyme genes in resistant strains at the adult stage was significantly higher than that in susceptible strains. After the TtSOD and TtPOD4 genes of adult mites of the resistant strain were silenced by RNA interference (RNAi) technology, the mortality rate of mites with TtPOD4 gene silencing reached 41.11% after 96 h at 34 °C, which was significantly higher than that of the control and TtSOD gene silencing. It has been confirmed that the TtPOD4 gene plays a key role in the adaptation of pyridaben-resistant strain of T. truncatus to high temperature. It lays a theoretical foundation for revealing the thermal adaptation mechanism of T. truncatus.

Ameliorative effect of aqueous avocado seed extract against chromium‐induced oxidative stress and cellular damage in rabbit kidney

AbstractThe accumulation of chromium in renal tissues promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, genomic and cellular harm, and ultimately necrotic and apoptotic cell death induced by free radicals. Hence, the utilization of antioxidant phytochemicals becomes crucial for cellular defense against oxidative damage. This study endeavors to explore the potential protective effects of an aqueous avocado seed extract (ASE) on rabbit kidneys exposed to chromium‐induced damage. Fifteen adult rabbits were distributed into three groups: Group 1 was kept as the control. The second and third groups received a daily dose of K2Cr2O7 (5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. While the third group was given an oral dose of ASE (400 mg/kg). In rabbits administered with Cr (VI), kidney homogenates showed a marked increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA) (69.3 ± 4.1 nmol/g) along with a decrease in glutathione (59 ± 5.8 nmol/mg) content and the activity superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.5 ± 0.05 U/mg protein), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (16.7 ± 1.1 μmol/mg protein), and catalase (CAT) (73.8 ± 3.9 U/g protein) compared to the levels in control group. Also, the gene expression data for the enzymes SOD, GPx, and CAT dropped dramatically in kidney tissue following Cr (VI) injection. Additionally, Bowman's capsule and glomerulus showed degenerative alterations in the kidney's histopathology and immunohistochemistry. ASE treatment when administered along with Cr (VI) enhanced the activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and improved histopathological conditions. The findings of this study unequivocally show that avocado seed extract, which is rich in phenolic derivatives, is a potent nephroprotective agent that inhibits nephrotoxicity induced by Cr (VI) in rabbits.

StMAPKK5 responds to heat stress by regulating potato growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant defenses

BackgroundsAs a conserved signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade regulates cellular signaling in response to abiotic stress. High temperature may contribute to a significant decrease in economic yield. However, research into the expression patterns of StMAPKK family genes under high temperature is limited and lacks experimental validation regarding their role in supporting potato plant growth.MethodsTo trigger heat stress responses, potato plants were grown at 35°C. qRT-PCR was conducted to analyze the expression pattern of StMAPKK family genes in potato plants. Plant with StMAPKK5 loss-of-function and gain-of-function were developed. Potato growth and morphological features were assessed through measures of plant height, dry weight, and fresh weight. The antioxidant ability of StMAPKK5 was indicated by antioxidant enzyme activity and H2O2 content. Cell membrane integrity and permeability were suggested by relative electrical conductivity (REC), and contents of MDA and proline. Photosynthetic capacity was next determined. Further, mRNA expression of heat stress-responsive genes and antioxidant enzyme genes was examined.ResultsIn reaction to heat stress, the expression profiles of StMAPKK family genes were changed. The StMAPKK5 protein is located to the nucleus, cytoplasm and cytomembrane, playing a role in controlling the height and weight of potato plants under heat stress conditions. StMAPKK5 over-expression promoted photosynthesis and maintained cell membrane integrity, while inhibited transpiration and stomatal conductance under heat stress. Overexpression of StMAPKK5 triggered biochemical defenses in potato plant against heat stress, modulating the levels of H2O2, MDA and proline, as well as the antioxidant activities of CAT, SOD and POD. Overexpression of StMAPKK5 elicited genetic responses in potato plants to heat stress, affecting heat stress-responsive genes and genes encoding antioxidant enzymes.ConclusionStMAPKK5 can improve the resilience of potato plants to heat stress-induced damage, offering a promising approach for engineering potatoes with enhanced adaptability to challenging heat stress conditions.

Vitamin E alleviates chlorpyrifos induced glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation to inhibit ferroptosis in hepatocytes and mitigate toxicity in zebrafish

Organophosphates, a widely used group of pesticides, can cause severe toxicity in human beings and other non-target organisms. Liver, being the primary site for xenobiotic metabolism, is extremely vulnerable to xenobiotic-induced toxicity. Considering the numerous vital functions performed by the liver, including xenobiotic detoxification, protecting this organ from the ubiquitous pesticides in our food and environment is essential for maintaining homeostasis.In this study, we have investigated the impact of the organophosphate pesticide, Chlorpyrifos (CPF), on zebrafish liver at a concentration (300 μg/L) which is environmentally realistic. We have also demonstrated the role of dietary supplementation of α-tocopherol or Vitamin E (Vit E) (500 mg/kg feed) in mitigating pesticide-induced liver toxicity. Mechanistically, we showed that Vit E resulted in significant elevation of the Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expressions, especially that of GST and GPx, resulting in reduction of CPF-induced intracellular lipid ROS and hepatic LPO. Further interrogation, such as analysis of GSH: GSSG ratio, intracellular iron concentration, iron metabolizing genes, mitochondrial dysfunction etc. revealed that CPF induces ferroptosis which can be reversed by Vit E supplementation. Ultimately, reduced concentration of CPF in zebrafish serum and flesh highlighted the role of Vit E in ameliorating CPF toxicity.

H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress Responses in Eriocheir sinensis: Antioxidant Defense and Immune Gene Expression Dynamics.

Eriocheir sinensis, a key species in China's freshwater aquaculture, is threatened by various diseases, which were verified to be closely associated with oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the response of E. sinensis to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress to understand the biological processes behind these diseases. Crabs were exposed to different concentrations of H2O2 and their antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expressions for defense and immunity were measured. Results showed that activities of antioxidant enzymes-specificallysuperoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)-varied with exposure concentration and duration, initially increasing then decreasing. Notably, SOD, GSH-Px, and T-AOC activities dropped below control levels at 96 h. Concurrently, oxidative damage markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), H2O2, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels, increased with exposure duration. The mRNA expression of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px also showed an initial increase followed by a decrease, peaking at 72 h. The upregulation of phenoloxidaseloxidase (proPO) and peroxinectin (PX) was also detected, but proPO was suppressed under high levels of H2O2. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression gradually increased with higher H2O2 concentrations, whereas induced nitrogen monoxide synthase (iNOS) was upregulated but decreased at 96 h. These findings emphasize H2O2's significant impact on the crab's oxidative and immune responses, highlighting the importance of understanding cellular stress responses for disease prevention and therapy development.

Regulation of photosynthetic function and reactive oxygen species metabolism in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) cultivars under waterlogging stress and associated tolerance mechanisms

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is an economically important sugar crop worldwide that is susceptible to sudden waterlogging stress during seedling cultivation, which poses a major threat to sugar beet development and production. Our understanding of the physiological basis of waterlogging tolerance in sugar beet is limited. To investigate the photosynthetic adaptation strategies of sugar beet to waterlogging stress conditions, the tolerant cultivar KUHN1260 (KU) and sensitive cultivar SV1433 (SV) were grown under waterlogging stress, and their photosynthetic function and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism were assessed. Our results showed that waterlogging stress significantly reduced the photosynthetic pigment content, rubisco activity, and expression level of the photosynthetic enzyme genes SvRuBP, SvGAPDH, and SvPRK, gas exchange parameters, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, induced damage to the ultrastructure of the chloroplast of the two sugar beet cultivars, inhibited the photosynthetic carbon assimilation capacity of sugar beet leaves, damaged the structural stability of photosystem II (PSII), and disturbed the equilibrium between electrons at the acceptor and donor sides of PSII, which was the result of stomatal and non-stomatal limiting factors. Moreover, the level of ROS, H2O2, and O2▪−, antioxidant enzyme activity, and gene expression levels in the leaves of the two sugar beet cultivars increased over time under waterlogging stress; ROS accumulation was lower and antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expression levels were higher in the waterlogging-tolerant cultivar (KU) than the waterlogging-sensitive cultivar (SV). In sum, these responses in the more tolerant cultivars are associated with their resistance to waterlogging stress. Our findings will aid the breeding of waterlogging-tolerant sugar beet cultivars.

Inhibitory effect of malonic acid on Microcystis aeruginosa: Cell morphology, oxidative stress and gene expression

The utilization of allelochemicals, which are regarded as eco-friendly algaecides for mitigating harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCB), has attracted increasing attention, owing to their negligible toxicity, high selectivity and excellent degradability. In the present study, the inhibitory effects of malonic acid on Microcystis aeruginosa were investigated in terms of growth indicators, cell morphology, antioxidant enzymes activities and gene expression. The results indicated that the exposure to 0.5 mmol L−1 malonic acid for 7 d caused a high microalgae inhibition rate of 86.88 %. Furthermore, the analysis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that the presence of malonic acid resulted in the disruption of cell integrity and the changes in cell morphology. Specifically, malonic acid was observed to cleave microalgae cells, while concurrently oxidizing the microalgae organic matter. In addition, under the exposure of 0.5 mmol L−1 malonic acid, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were 3.28 times as the control group on d-5, while the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were first increased by 5.96 and 11.73 fold compare to the control group on d-5, and then decreased, due to oxidative stress induced by malonic acid. Transcriptome-based gene expression analysis revealed that the presence of malonic acid significantly inhibited the transcription of genes (rbcL, psbA1) associated with photosynthesis, and the expression of DNA repair gene (recA), stress response gene (ftsH) and microcystin synthesis genes (mcyD, mcyH) were up-regulated. These findings provide novel insights into the inhibitory effect of malonic acid on M. aeruginosa, suggesting that malonic acid has the potential to control M. aeruginosa blooms.

The response of Anisakis simplex (s. s.) to anthelmintics - Specific changes in xenobiotic metabolic processes

Anisakiasis is a parasitic disease transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked fish and cephalopods that are infected with larvae of Anisakis simplex (sensu stricto) or Anisakis pegreffii. The purpose of this study was to investigate how A. simplex (s. s.) responds to the influence of anthelmintics such as ivermectin (IVM) and pyrantel (PYR). In vitro experiments were conducted using larvae at two developmental stages of A. simplex (s. s.) (L3 and L4) obtained from Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras). Larvae were cultured with different concentrations of IVM or PYR (1.56, 3.125, and 6.25 μg/mL) for various durations (3, 6, 9, and 12 h) under anaerobic conditions (37 °C, 5% CO2). The gene expression of actin, ABC transporter, antioxidant enzymes, γ-aminobutyric acid receptors, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, as well as the oxidative status were analyzed. The results showed that A. simplex (s. s.) L3 stage had lower mobility when cultured with PYR compared to IVM. The analysis of relative gene expression revealed significant differences in the mRNA level of ABC transporters after treatment with IVM and PYR, compared to the control group. Similar patterns were observed in the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes in response to both drugs. Furthermore, the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity were higher in the treatment groups than in the control group. These findings suggest a relationship between the expression of the studied genes, including those related to oxidative metabolism, and the effectiveness of the tested drugs.

Taurine prevented the decline of fillet quality and muscle antioxidant capacity in on-growing grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) fed non-fishmeal diet

Taurine is abundantly present in fishmeal, while plant protein sources typically contain minimal to no taurine. This disparity in taurine content may explain variations in fish quality traits caused by the dietary substitution of fishmeal with plant protein sources. This research explored whether taurine supplementation to non-fishmeal (NFM) diet could improve fillet quality and muscle antioxidant capacity in grass carp. A total of 540 fish (255.74 ± 0.65 g) were distributed among six groups. One of them was provided with a fishmeal (FM) diet, while the remaining five groups received NFM diets, formulated with incremental concentrations of crystalline taurine (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 g/kg) for 60 days. Our data showed that, in comparison with the un-supplemented group, the optimal taurine supplementation to NFM diet yielded the following findings: (1) increased fillet nutritional values by improving crude protein content, free amino acid and fatty acid compositions; (2) improved fillet physicochemical properties by improving water holding capacity (WHC), tenderness, and preventing pH decline; (3) enhanced antioxidant enzymes activities and gene expressions through nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. Additionally, this optimal NFM diet showed to be competitive with FM diet in terms of fillet quality. According to quadratic regression curves of ROS production and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content, the optimal taurine supplementation levels in NFM diet for on-growing grass carp were 1.12 and 1.18 g/kg diet, respectively.

Suitable Cottonseed Protein Concentrate Supplementation in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Serves as an Effective Strategy for Fish Meal Sparing Based on Improvement in Intestinal Antioxidant Capacity, Barrier and Microbiota Composition.

The application of cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) is an effective strategy to moderate the shortage of fish meal (FM) for the aquafeed industry. However, little attention has been paid to the effects of replacing fishmeal with CPC on cyprinid fish. This study used common carp (Cyprinus carpio) as the biological model and assessed the potential of applying CPC as a substitute for fishmeal in the diet of common carp. The proportion of fish meal substituted with CPC in the six diets was 0% (CPC0), 25% (CPC25), 50% (CPC50), 75% (CPC75), and 100% (CPC100). Each diet was fed to three replicate groups of common carp (4.17 ± 0.02 g) for 56 days. Results revealed that the CPC50 group significantly increased the growth indexes via up-regulating the genes of the GH/IGF axis and the TOR pathway. The intestinal digestive ability was also elevated in the CPC50 group via markedly increasing intestinal villus height, protease and lipase activities in the whole intestine, and the amylase activity of the foregut and midgut. The CPC50 group captured significantly higher activities and gene expressions of antioxidant enzymes and lower malonaldehyde contents via evoking the Nrf2/Keap1 signal pathway. The CPC50 group enhance the intestinal mechanical barrier via up-regulating the gene expressions of tight junction proteins and heighten the intestinal biological barrier by increasing the probiotics (Lactococcus) and decreasing the harmful bacteria (Enterococcus). But excessive substitution levels (75% and 100%) would compromise growth performance, intestinal antioxidant capacity, and immune function. The optimum substitution level was estimated to be 46.47%, 47.72%, and 46.43% using broken-line regression analyses based on mass gain rate, protein efficiency ratio, and feed conversion rate. Overall, the fishmeal in common carp feed could be substituted up to 50% by CPC without negative influence on growth, feed utilization, and or intestinal health.

Comparative Morpho-Physiological, Biochemical, and Gene Expressional Analyses Uncover Mechanisms of Waterlogging Tolerance in Two Soybean Introgression Lines.

Waterlogging is one of the key abiotic factors that severely impedes the growth and productivity of soybeans on a global scale. To develop soybean cultivars that are tolerant to waterlogging, it is a prerequisite to unravel the mechanisms governing soybean responses to waterlogging. Hence, we explored the morphological, physiological, biochemical, and transcriptional changes in two contrasting soybean introgression lines, A192 (waterlogging tolerant, WT) and A186 (waterlogging sensitive, WS), under waterlogging. In comparison to the WT line, waterlogging drastically decreased the root length (RL), shoot length (ShL), root fresh weight (RFW), shoot fresh weight (ShFW), root dry weight (RDW), and shoot dry weight (ShDW) of the WS line. Similarly, waterlogging inhibited soybean plant growth by suppressing the plant's photosynthetic capacity, enhancing oxidative damage from reactive oxygen species, and decreasing the chlorophyll content in the WS line but not in the WT line. To counteract the oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation, the WT line exhibited increased activity of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), as well as higher levels of proline content than the WS line. In addition, the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes (POD1, POD2, FeSOD, Cu/ZnSOD, CAT1, and CAT2) and ethylene-related genes (such as ACO1, ACO2, ACS1, and ACS2) were found to be up-regulated in WT line under waterlogging stress conditions. In contrast, these genes showed a down-regulation in their expression levels in the stressed WS line. The integration of morpho-physiological, biochemical, and gene expression analyses provide a comprehensive understanding of the responses of WT and WS lines to waterlogging conditions. These findings would be beneficial for the future development of soybean cultivars that can withstand waterlogging.

Humic Acid Mitigates Drought Stress in Tomato

Drought stress, one of the most important abiotic stresses, severely limits global crop production. To increase tolerance to this stress, environmentally friendly practices are emphasised. Humic acid, one of the most important natural biostimulants, has positive effects on plant growth and yield. Recently, it has also been reported to play an important role in resistance to various abiotic stresses. However, many physiological and molecular mechanisms by which humic acid confers drought resistance have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the effects of humic acid application on different morphological and physiological stress indicators and some antioxidative enzyme gene expressions of tomato seedlings under drought stress conditions were investigated in this study. It was found that drought stress decreased shoot fresh/dry weight, root fresh/dry weight, shoot and root length, chlorophyll and relative water content of plants by 67%, 56%, 31%, 38%, 22%, 20%, 15% and 25%, respectively. Humic acid application significantly increased these parameters, while reducing ion leakage, MDA and proline levels. The antioxidant enzyme gene expression of tomato seedlings under drought conditions showed no significant difference in SOD and APX gene expression, whereas CAT gene expression increased and GR gene expression decreased with humic acid application. Our results showed that humic acid application interacted with stress-related antioxidant enzyme gene expression and may be effective in reducing drought stress.

Involvement of abscisic acid on antioxidant enzymes activity and gene expression in Lavandula angustifolia cv. Munstead under drought stress

Involvement of abscisic acid on antioxidant enzymes activity and gene expression in Lavandula angustifolia cv. Munstead under drought stress

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) and Brazil nut oil: effects on oxidative stress and potential therapeutic health benefits from human, animal, and cell culture models.

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) is characterized by its high nutritional and energetic value. It contains high levels of l-arginine, antioxidant vitamins, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. In addition to their biological functions, bioactive compounds and essential fatty acids present therapeutic effects on chronic disease prevention through their antioxidant effects. Thus, this review aims to present the most recent scientific evidence on the effect of Brazil nut on human health. A search for scientific articles was carried out through the MEDLINE/PubMed, Science Direct, and LILACS databases, considering articles published between the years 2010 and 2023. The results showed that Brazil nuts and Brazil nut oil, when consumed regularly and associated with a balanced diet, can improve lipid profile, attenuate inflammatory response, and improve oxidative stress through increased activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes. However, further studies are recommended to better understand the mechanisms of action.

Lercanidipine's Antioxidative Effect Prevents Noise-Induced Hearing Loss.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent form of adult hearing impairment, characterized by oxidative damage to auditory sensory hair cells. Although certain dihydropyridines, the L-type calcium channel blockers, exhibit protective properties against such damage, the ability of third-generation dihydropryidines like lercanidipine to mitigate NIHL remains unclear.We utilized glucose oxidase (GO)-treated OC1 cell lines and cochlear explants to evaluate the protective influence of lercanidipine on hair cells. To further investigate its effectiveness, we exposed noise-stimulated mice in vivo and analyzed their hearing thresholds. Additionally, we assessed the antioxidative capabilities of lercanidipine by examining oxidation-related enzyme expression and levels of oxidative stress markers, including 3-nitrotyrosine (3NT) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE). Our findings demonstrate that lercanidipine significantly reduces the adverse impacts of GO on both OC-1 cell viability (0.3 to 2.5 µM) and outer hair cell (OHC) survival in basal turn cochlear explants (7 µM). These results are associated with increased mRNA expression of antioxidant enzyme genes (HO-1, SOD1/2, and Txnrd1), along with decreased expression of oxidase genes (COX-2, iNOS). Crucially, lercanidipine administration prior to, and following, noise exposure effectively ameliorates NIHL, as evidenced by lowered hearing thresholds and preserved OHC populations in the basal turn, 14 days post-noise stimulation at 110 dB SPL. Moreover, our observations indicate that lercanidipine's antioxidative action persists even three days after simultaneous drug and noise treatments, based on 3-nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxynonenal immunostaining in the basal turn. Based on these findings, we propose that lercanidipine has the capacity to alleviate NIHL and safeguard OHC survival in the basal turn, potentially via its antioxidative mechanism. These results suggest that lercanidipine holds promise as a clinically viable option for preventing NIHL in affected individuals.

Toxicity and Hepatoprotective Effects of ZnO Nanoparticles on Normal and High-Fat Diet-Fed Rat Livers: Mechanism of Action.

This experiment aimed to evaluate the beneficial and toxic properties of synthetic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the liver of normal and high-fat diet (HFD) fed-rats. The ZnO NPs were synthesized and, its characterizations were determined by different techniques. Effect of ZnO NP on cell viability, liver enzymes and lipid accumulation were measured in HepG2 cells after 24h. After that, rats orally received various dosages of ZnO NPs for period of 4weeks. Toxicity tests were done to determine the appropriate dose. In the subsequent step, the hepatoprotective effects of 5mg/kg ZnO NPs were determined in HFD-fed rats (experiment 2). The oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, inflammatory, and apoptosis pathways were measured. Additionally, the activity of caspase 3, nitric oxide levels, antioxidant capacity, and various biochemical factors were measured. Morphological changes in the rat livers were also evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) and Masson trichrome. Liver apoptosis rate was also approved by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Treatment of animals with 5mg/ZnO NPs revealed potential hepatoprotective properties, while ZnO NPs at the doses of above 10mg/kg showed toxic effects. Antioxidant enzyme gene expression and activity were significantly augmented, while apoptosis, NLRP3 inflammasome, and inflammation pathways were significantly reduced by 5mg/kg ZnO NPs. Liver histopathological alterations were restored by 5mg/kg ZnO NPs in HFD. Our study highlights the hepatoprotective effects of ZnO NPs against the HFD-induced liver damage, involving antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways, indicating their promising therapeutic potential.

Antioxidative and Anti-photooxidative Potential of Interruptins from the Edible Fern Cyclosorus terminans in Human Skin Cells.

<p>Background: Human skin is exposed daily to oxidative stress factors such as UV light, chemical pollutants, and invading organisms. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are intermediate molecules that cause cellular oxidative stress. In order to survive in an oxygen-rich environment, all aerobic organisms, including mammals, have evolved enzymatic and non-enzymatic defence systems. The interruptins from an edible fern Cyclosorus terminans possess antioxidative properties and can scavenge intracellular ROS in adipose-derived stem cells. <p> Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidative efficacy of interruptins A, B, and C in cultured human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and epidermal keratinocytes (HEKs). Moreover, the anti-photooxidative activity of interruptins in ultraviolet (UV)-exposed skin cells was investigated. <p> Methods: The intracellular ROS scavenging capacity of interruptins in skin cells was measured by flow cytometry. Their induction effects on gene expression of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes was monitored using real-time polymerase chain reaction. <p> Results: Interruptins A and B, but not interruptin C, were highly effective in ROS scavenging, particularly in HDFs. Interruptins A and B upregulated gene expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD)1, SOD2, catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in HEKs, but they only induced SOD1, SOD2, and GPx gene expression in HDFs. Additionally, interruptins A and B efficiently suppressed UVA- and UVB-induced ROS generation in both HEKs and HDFs. <p> Conclusion: The results suggest that these naturally occurring interruptins A and B are potent natural antioxidants and therefore may have the potential in the future of inclusion in antiaging cosmeceutical products.</p>.

Urtica pilulifera leaves extract mitigates cadmium induced hepatotoxicity via modulation of antioxidants, inflammatory markers and Nrf-2 signaling in mice.

Introduction: Cadmium (Cd) is a harmful heavy metal that results in many toxic issues. Urtica pilulifera showed potential pharmaceutical applications. This study investigated the possible ameliorative mechanism of Urtica pilulifera leaves extract (UPLE) against hepatotoxicity induced by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) in mice. Methods: In vitro phytochemical screening and the metal-chelating activity of UPLE were ascertained. Four groups of forty male mice were used (n = 10) as follows; Group 1 (G1) was a negative control. G2 was injected i.p., with UPLE (100mg/kg b. wt) daily. G3 was injected i.p., with Cd (5mg/kg b. wt) daily. G4 was injected with Cd as in G3 and with UPLE as in G2. On day 11, the body weight changes were evaluated, blood, and serum samples were collected for hematological and biochemical assessments. Liver tissues were used for biochemical, molecular, and histopathological investigations. Results: The results showed that UPLE contains promising secondary metabolites that considerably lessen the negative effects of Cd on liver. Furthermore, UPLE inhibited oxidative stress and inflammation; restored antioxidant molecules; and promoted nuclear-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) expression. Also, UPLE improved the histopathological alterations induced by Cd. Discussion: This study explored the beneficial role of UPLE treatment in Cd-induced liver injury through enhancing Nrf-2 signaling and antioxidant enzyme gene expression in the liver of mice. Therefore, UPLE could have valuable implications against hepatotoxicity induced by environmental cadmium exposure. Which can be used as a chelating agent against Cd.

Comparison effect of high-intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training on vascular function in a mouse model of lower extremity peripheral artery disease

Introduction&#x0D; Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), due to narrowing of the arteries supplying the legs, represents a major cause of physical disability. Exercise training is an important part of PAD treatment, improving functional capacity. Recent research suggests that exercise training-induced endothelial function improvement is involved in the benefits of exercise in PAD (Lee et al., 2023); however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. In addition, the potential vascular benefits of high intensity training in PAD remain unexplored. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on endurance capacity, vascular endothelial function and expression of genes related to nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability in a mouse model of PAD.&#x0D; Methods&#x0D; PAD disease model was generated in male C57BL/6 mice by ligation of the right iliac artery. Mice with PAD were divided into 3 groups: sedentary control group (SED), MICT (40 min running at 70% of maximal aerobic speed) and HIIT (8 intervals of 2.5 minutes running at 90% of maximal aerobic speed combined with 2.5 minutes of running at 50% of maximal aerobic speed). Mice were exercised three times per week for 8 weeks. Maximal running time was determined by an incremental test until exhaustion. Vascular reactivity was assessed by measuring vasoconstrictor responses to phenylephrine as well as endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilator responses to acetylcholine and DEA-NONOate, respectively, in isolated aortic rings. Gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase isoforms), prooxidant NADPH oxidase subunits (p22phox and p47phox), enzyme involved in NO production (endothelial NO synthase), vascular smooth muscle cell relaxation (soluble guanylate cyclase) and receptors involved in vascular tone regulation (a1 and b2 adrenergic receptors) was determined in aortic tissue by qPCR.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; Maximal running time was improved in both MICT and HIIT as compared to SED at the end of the study, but with no significant difference between the two exercise groups. Phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction as well as vasodilator responses to acetylcholine and DEA-NONOate were significantly improved in MICT compared to SED while no significant differences were reported between HIIT and SED. There was no significant difference in gene expression among the three groups.&#x0D; Discussion/Conclusion&#x0D; MICT and HIIT were equally effective at improving endurance capacity in mice with PAD. However, only MICT improved vascular reactivity.&#x0D; References&#x0D; Lee, J., Zarezadehmehrizi, A., LaVoy, E., Markofski, M., &amp; Park, Y. (2023). Exercise training improves brachial artery endothelial function, but does not alter inflammatory biomarkers in patients with peripheral artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Cardiovascular Translational Research. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12265-023-10451-0