Antioxidant Enzyme Activities In Tissues Research Articles

The anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant potential of a polysaccharide extracted from the brown alga Cystoseira humilis

The present study aimed to evaluate the properties of a sulfated polysaccharide (PSCH) extracted from the brown alga Cystoseira humilis. We analyzed the chemical composition, anti-angiogenesis activities, anticoagulant, and anti-inflammatory effects of the PSCH, using various techniques encompassing UV–visible spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (X-RD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), steric exclusion chromatography (SEC) and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to refractive index detector (HPLC-RID). The study found that PSCH was a sulfated heteropolysaccharide consisting of glucuronic acid, arabinose, galacturonic acid, xylose and fructose, and has a semi-crystalline nature with a molecular weight of about 379.44 kDa. The PSCH contains 41.77 % carbohydrates, 12.33 % proteins, and 4.59 % sulfates. The PSCH fraction has anti-angiogenic potential highlighted through assays on the chorioallantoic membrane, where vascular branching was inhibited by about 41.65 % and 61.38 % at concentrations of 50 and 100 μg/egg, respectively, compared to the untreated group. PSCH displayed an anti-edematous effect in vivo by reducing malondialdehyde and advanced oxidation protein products in paw tissue after five hours of carrageenan injection. When rats were co-treated with PSCH, there was evidence of a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione) in edematous paw tissues compared to untreated rats. Furthermore, PSCH significantly influenced hematological parameters and the rate of anti-inflammatory serum protein fractions compared to the inflamed group. Interestingly, PSCH may exhibit anticoagulant properties by extending activated partial thrombosis time, thrombin time and prothrombin time. The present study has shown that Cystoseira humilis polysaccharides have antioxidant, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulant properties, making them suitable for therapeutic purposes.

Accumulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Their Effects on Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Tissues of the Ark Shell (Anadara kagoshimensis)

Accumulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Their Effects on Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Tissues of the Ark Shell (Anadara kagoshimensis)

The effects of vitamin E supplementation on sperm parameters, chromatin integrity, and gene expression before and after freezing in aged mice.

Some age-related testicular changes, such as Sertoli cell vacuolization and blood-testis barrier breakdown, reduce total sperm production and male fertility. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of vitamin E on restoring testicular function in aged mice. Sperm cryo-resistance was also assessed. Twenty-eight 48-week-old male Naval Medical Research Institute mice were divided into four groups for a daily gavage of vitamin E: the control group received distilled water, while the three treatment groups were administered 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively, for 4 weeks. Subsequently, semen analyses, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and protamine deficiency tests were conducted. Testicular histology, tissue antioxidant enzyme activity, and gene expression levels were also assessed. The two higher dosages of vitamin E were associated with a higher sperm count, greater progressive motility, and improved sperm morphology (p<0.05). These benefits were also evident after sperm freezing (p<0.05). Although chromatin abnormalities increased following vitrification, the treatment groups showed better outcomes (p<0.05). The tubular diameter, epithelium height, and luminal diameters remained unchanged with age. The tissue antioxidant capacity was greater in the groups receiving the high doses of vitamin E. Additionally, significant increases in inhibitor of DNA binding protein-4 (Id4) and GDNF family receptor alpha-1 (Gfra1) expression were observed in the higher vitamin E dosage groups, and promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (Plzf) expression was notably present in the 400 mg/kg treatment group compared to the control group (p<0.05). Antioxidant supplementation might enhance reproductive outcomes in aging males. The observed effects included improved sperm cryo-resistance, which is advantageous for future applications such as sperm freezing or fertility preservation.

Exploring the dietary and therapeutic potential of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) sprouts.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThis research substantiates the traditional use of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. for liver health, with scientific evidence of the non-toxic and lipid-lowering properties of licorice sprout extracts. The sprouts' rich mineral and amino acid content, along with their strong antioxidant activity, reinforce their value in traditional medicine. These findings bridge ancient herbal practices with modern science, highlighting licorice's potential in contemporary therapeutic applications. Aim of the studyThe study aimed to investigate the dietary and medicinal potential of G. uralensis sprouts by assessing their safety, nutritional content, and antioxidant properties using both plant and animal models. Specifically, the study sought to determine the effects of different sizes of licorice sprouts on lipid metabolism in human liver cancer cells and their overall impact on rat health indicators. Materials and methodsThe study examined the effects of aqueous and organic extracts from G. uralensis sprouts of varying lengths on the cytotoxicity, lipid metabolism, and antioxidant activity in HepG2 cells, alongside in vivo impacts on Sprague-Dawley rats, using MTT, ICP, and HPLC. It aimed to assess the potential health benefits of licorice sprouts by analyzing their protective effects against oxidative stress and their nutritional content. ResultsLicorice sprout extracts from G. uralensis demonstrated no cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells, significantly reduced lipid levels, and enhanced antioxidant activities, with the longest sprouts (7 cm) showing higher mineral, sugar, and arginine content as well as increased glycyrrhizin and liquiritigenin. In vivo studies with Sprague-Dawley rats revealed weight gain and improved antioxidant enzyme activities in blood plasma and liver tissues after consuming the extracts, highlighting the sprouts' dietary and therapeutic potential. ConclusionsThis study is the first to demonstrate that G. uralensis sprouts, particularly those 7 cm in length, have no cytotoxic effects, reduce lipids, and have high mineral and antioxidant contents, offering promising dietary and therapeutic benefits.

The Growth, Leaf Antioxidant Enzymes and Amino Acid Content of Tomato as Affected by Grafting on Wild Tomato Rootstocks 1 (S. Pimpinellifolium and S. Habrochaites) Under Salt Stress

Salinity in soil or water is a serious threat to plant growth, which reduces yields and threatens food security. It is possible to reduce the negative effects of salinity on tomato scions through grafting. To evaluate the effects of salt stress on graft combinations in hydroponic conditions, SP3, SP4, SP5 (S. pimpinellifolium), SH1, SH3, SH5 (S. habrochaites) and two hybrids L × SP5 (S. lycopersicum L. × S. pimpinellifolium) and L × SH3 (S. lycopersicum L. × S. habrochaites) were used as rootstock and two varieties Galaxy and H2274 (S. lycopersicum L.) were used as scion. Plants were evaluated in terms of biomass parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities and amino acid contents in leaf tissues under control and salt stress conditions. Salt stress decreased the fresh weight of shoots and roots by 68.71 and 23.59, respectively, and increased H2O2 content (93.90 %) and MDA content (63.71 %). In addition, salt stress in leaf tissues POD (204.49 %), CAT (83.87 %), SOD (204.49 %), GR (88.23 %), GST (100.16 %), G6PD (32.85 %), 6GPD (46.19 %), APX (157.29 %) caused an increase in enzymes and total amino acid content (160.57 %). In salt stress conditions, SH5/Galaxy and L × SP5/Galaxy are the graft combinations with the highest fresh shoot and root weight, leaf number and root volume. These graft combinations contain the most isoleucine, proline lysine, alanine arginine, sucrosine leucine, methionine, hydroxyproline glutamate, glutamine and histidine amino acids in leaf tissues and have the lowest MDA content. Ungrafted H2274 and Galaxy plants have the highest MDA and content under salt stress conditions, these ungrafted plants have the least other amino acids and enzymes other than theonine amino acid in their leaf tissues. Furthermore, ungrafted plants under saline conditions had the lowest shoot and root fresh weight, leaf number and root volume. MDA content correlated negatively with shoot and root fresh weight, leaf number and root volume. H2O2 correlated positively with CAT, SOD, GST and peroxidase enzymes and negatively with APX, GR and G6PD enzymes. It seems that the antioxidant enzyme activity and amino acid content in leaf tissues influence salinity response and the appropriate rootstock/scion combination could be a viable method for tomato cultivation in saline conditions.

Punicalagin attenuates myocardial oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats: Biochemical, immunohistochemical, and in silico molecular docking studies

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a life-threatening ischemic disease and is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Punicalagin (PU), the major ellagitannin found in pomegranates, is characterized by multiple antioxidant activities. The aim of this study is to assess the protective effects of PU against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced acute myocardial damage and to investigate its underlying vascular mechanisms using rat model. MethodsRats were randomly divided into five groups and were treated orally (p.o.) with PU (25 and 50 mg/kg) for 14 days. ISO was administered subcutaneously (S.C.) (85 mg/kg) on the 15th and 16th days to induce Myocardial infarction. Cardiac markers, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines levels were determined in the heart tissue. Immunohistochemistry analysis was performed to determine the protein expression pathways of inflammation, apoptosis and oxidative stress (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in all the groups. In silico study was carried out to evaluate the molecular interaction of PU with some molecular targets. ResultsOur results showed that ISO-induced cardiac tissue injury was evidenced by increased serum creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), associated with several histopathological changes. ISO also induced an increase of MDA, PCO, NO, and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), along with a decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities in the myocardial tissues. In addition, an increase of TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS, Nrf2 and (HO-1) was observed. Pre-treatment with PU reduced myocardial infract area, ameliorated histopathological alterations in myocardium, and decreased activities of myocardial injury marker enzymes in ISO-induced rats. In addition, PU remarkably restored ISO-induced elevation of lipid peroxidation and decrease of antioxidants, significantly reduced myocardial pro-inflammatory cytokines concentrations in this animal model. Molecular docking analysis of PU with protein targets showed potent interactions with negative binding energies.In conclusion, PU can protect the myocardium from oxidative injury, inflammatory response, and cell death induced by ISO by upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and antioxidants.

The Effects of Varying Combinations of Dietary Selenium, Vitamin E, and Zinc Supplements on Antioxidant Enzyme Activity, and Developmental and Histological Traits in Testicular Tissues of 1-Year-Old Native Turkish Ganders

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of varying combinations of dietary selenium (Se), vitamin E (Vit E), and zinc (Zn) supplements on antioxidant enzyme activity, and developmental and histological traits in testicular tissues of 1-year-old native Turkish ganders. A total of 48 animals were used and randomly assigned to 8 treatment groups (control, Se, Vit E, Zn, Se + Vit E, Se + Zn, Vit E + Zn, and Se + Vit E + Zn), with 6 birds in each group. In addition to the control (basic) diet, specific levels of supplements (0.3 mg/kg Se, 100 mg/kg Vit E, and 100 mg/kg Zn) were added to the diet of each treatment group. Antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase activities, and malondialdehyde level) were more advantageous in the testicular tissue of ganders fed with Se + Vit E + Zn. Malondialdehyde (MDA), which is an important indicator of lipid peroxidation, was not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. However, it was negatively correlated with the seminiferous tubule area (−0.34) and diameter (−0.35). Compared to the control, the highest seminiferous tubule area and germinative epithelial thickness were determined as being fed with Se + Vit E + Zn. The lowest seminiferous tubule diameter was determined in the control and Zn groups, while the highest was in the group fed with Se + Vit E + Zn and Se + Vit E. This study showed that the simultaneous supplementation of Se + Vit and E + Zn into the diet of native Turkish ganders had positive effects on the testicular tissue, by reducing oxidative damage and improving histological parameters without affecting their physiological status.

Tissue metal concentrations and antioxidant enzyme activity in western north Atlantic white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias)

Anthropogenic practices have increased metal contamination in marine ecosystems. Most sharks have long lifespans, occupy an important ecological position at the top of marine food webs, and can accumulate metals. However, reference levels of metal contaminants in the tissues of sharks, particularly, apex predators such as the white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), are lacking. In this study, concentrations of copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), silver (Ag), and zinc (Zn) were measured in the muscle tissue of white (n = 42) and tiger (Galeocerdo cuvier; n = 3) sharks. Metal exposure in various species, including sharks, has been correlated with increased oxidative stress. Therefore, the main objectives of this study were to assess metal accumulation and antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) in the muscle tissue of the population of white sharks and tiger sharks inhabiting the Western North Atlantic. The measured parameters were qualitatively compared between species. The small sample size of tiger sharks (collected from only one site) limited statistical analyses, therefore, white sharks were the primary focus of this study. Differences in tissue metal (Cu, Cd, Ni, and Zn) concentrations and antioxidant enzyme activities were detected based on collection site, with significant positive correlations between Cd and enzymes, SOD and CAT, and Zn and enzymes, SOD and GPx in C. carcharias. Differences in Ni concentration were detected based on sex, with females having higher Ni levels. Additionally, plasma osmolality was not correlated with tissue metal concentrations; however, osmolality decreased with increasing length in C. carcharias. This study is the first to report baseline levels of Cu, Zn, Cd, Ni, Ag, and Pb in muscle of North Atlantic white sharks and provides new insights into oxidative stress responses of these sensitive species to metal contaminants.

Short-time salinity fluctuations are strong activators of oxidative stress in Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis)

Salinity stress is an emerging key factor affecting aquatic animals in coastal waters. In bivalves, physiological responses to anisosmotic conditions are frequently associated with excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, lipid peroxidation processes and alterations of the antioxidant enzyme activity in tissues. In this study, we investigated whether short-time exposure to high (20-40 ‰) or low (6-14 ‰) salinity induces oxidative stress in hemocytes and gills of Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Our findings showed that both hypoosmotic and hyperosmotic stress enhanced formation of ROS in hemocytes, which was accompanied by an increase in DNA damage. Experimental acclimation to low salinity (6‰, 10 ‰) led to a decrease of the activity of superoxide dismutase but did not affect catalase activity in gills. Exposure to high salinity (24 ‰) inhibited activities of both antioxidant enzymes, whereas at 30 ‰ activity of both enzymes recovered up to controls. We found that exposure to high salinity was associated with lower risks of oxidative stress in mussels, and changes in redox balance are observed in hemocytes and gills even if the range of salinity changes is in range of species adaptive potential. Taken together, this study suggests that short-time salinity fluctuations promote oxidative stress in bivalves.

Antioxidant enzyme activities, molecular docking studies, MM-GBSA, and molecular dynamic of chlorpyrifos in freshwater fish Capoeta umbla

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), which was started to be used in 1965, is a broad spectrum organophosphate insecticide that is used more and more day by day. Commonly used to control pests in farmland and homes, CPF is more toxic to fish than organochlorine compounds. CPF poses a serious threat to the health of humans and aquatic organisms. This paper studies the relationship between CPF exposure and antioxidant enzyme activities in gill, kidney and liver tissues of Capoeta umbla. Different time intervals (12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h) and CPF doses (55 and 110 µg L−1) were used in the study. Spectrophotometrical measures were taken in all tissues for antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as indices of the lipid peroxidation (LPO). A positive relationship between CPF and MDA levels was found in the study at a statistically significant level (p < 0.05). The study also found a negative relationship between CPF levels and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR) activity. Independent variables in the study can act as biomarkers of CPF exposure. The study recommends employing proper ecotoxicological risk evaluations in cases of CPF usage as a pesticide. The activities of the studied molecules against various proteins that are crystal structure of human peroxiredoxin 5 (PDB ID: 1HD2) has docking score value is −2.67, crystal structure of Bovine Xanthine Oxidase (PDB ID: 3NRZ) has docking score value is −3.76, and crystal structure of antibacterial FabH (PDB ID: 4Z8D) has docking score value is −3.16, were compared. Molecular dynamic (MD) calculations were made in 100 ns. MM/GBSA methods are calculated binding free energy. Afterwards, ADME/T analysis was performed to examine the some properties of the molecules. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

The protective effects of baicalin and chrysin against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity in Wistar albino rats.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of baicalin, chrysin and their combinations against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity in rats. For this purpose, sixty four rats were divided into evenly8 groups with 6-8-week-old male Wistar albino rats, weighing 180-250g, in each group. While the first group was kept as a control (corn oil), the remaining 7 groups were administered with emamectin benzoate (10mg/kg bw), baicalin (50mg/kg bw) and chrysin (50mg/kg bw) alone or together for 28days. Oxidative stress parameters, serum biochemical parameters and blood/tissue (liver, kidney, brain, testis and heart) and tissue histopathology were investigated. Compared to the control group, the emamectin benzoate-intoxicated rats had significantly higher tissue/plasma concentrations of nitric oxide(NO) and malondialdehyde(MDA), as well as lower tissue glutathione(GSH) concentrations and antioxidant enzyme activity (glutathione peroxidase/GSH-Px, glutathione reductase/GR, glutathione-S-transferase/GST, superoxide dismutase/SOD, catalase/CAT). Biochemical analysis showed that emamectin benzoate administration significantly increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, as well as triglyceride, cholesterol, creatinine, uric acid and urea levels, and decreased serum total protein and albumin levels. The histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, brain, heart and testis tissues of the emamectin benzoate-intoxicated rats demonstrated necrotic changes. Baicalin and/or chrysin reversed the biochemical and histopathological alterations induced by emamectin benzoate on these tested organs. Therefore, baicalin and chrysin (alone or in combination) could offer protection against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity.

The antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties of vitamins A, C and E in heart tissue of rats exposed to zinc oxide nanoparticles.

The rapidly increasing applications of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in various industries have led to growing concerns about their damaging influence on human health. The present research was designed to determine the protective action of vitamins (Vits) A, C and E on the heart toxicity induced by ZnO NPs. Fifty-four male Wistar rats were allocated into 9 groups of 6 and then exposed to ZnO NPs (200mg/kg), water (Control1), olive oil (Control2), Vit A (1000 IU/kg), Vit C (200mg/kg), Vit E (100 IU/kg) and three groups were co-treated with ZnO and one of the Vits A, C or E. The oxidative stress situation was evaluated by measuring oxidative stress markers and the tissue antioxidant enzyme activity. Besides, the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 and Bax and caspase 3,7 activity were assessed. A histopathological examination was also performed to determine the rate of cardiac injury. The results indicated that co-administration of ZnO NPs and the aforementioned Vits significantly reduced the total oxidant status and lipid peroxidation relative to the ZnO group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the supplementation of vitamins, notably Vit E, decreased the ZnO NPs-induced oxidative damage by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes compared to the ZnO NPs-fed rats (P < 0.05). Data also showed the mitigating effects of Vits against ZnO NPs-mediated apoptosis by suppressing the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 expression and caspase 3,7 activity. This study highlights the protective role of Vits A, C and E against ZnO NPs cardiotoxicity, though at different levels of effectiveness.

Long-distance transit alters liver and skeletal muscle physiology of beef cattle

Transportation of cattle is necessary but negatively impacts animal health and production efficiency. To gain a better understanding of the physiological responses to long-distance road transit, 36 crossbred beef steers (324 ± 36 kg) were randomly assigned to treatments (n = 12 steers/treatment): no transit and ad libitum access to feed and water (CON), no transit but deprived of feed and water for 18 h (DEPR), or road transit and no access to feed or water for 18 h (1 790 km; TRANS). Blood, liver, and muscle (longissimus dorsi) samples were collected pre- and post-treatment for analysis of blood metabolites, blood leukocyte profiles, blood markers of oxidative stress, and tissue antioxidant enzyme activity. Additionally, discovery-based metabolomics and proteomics analyses were performed on tissue samples collected immediately post-treatment (d 1). Data (except for omics) were analyzed using ProcMixed of SAS 9.4 with the fixed effect of treatment and steer as the experimental unit. Omics data were analyzed using MetaboAnalyst; metabolites and proteins of interest were identified based on a fold change threshold of 1.20 and t-test P-value of 0.10. On d 1, percent of pretreatment BW and DM intake were least for TRANS steers (P ≤ 0.06). Percent of pretreatment BW remained lesser for TRANS steers on d 8 (P = 0.05). Serum haptoglobin was greatest for TRANS steers immediately post-treatment (P = 0.02). Additionally, TRANS steers exhibited the greatest increase in the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and serum non-esterified fatty acids during the treatment period (P < 0.01), indicating TRANS steers experienced a more robust inflammatory and neuroendocrine response. Immediately post-treatment, liver superoxide dismutase activity tended to be greatest for both DEPR and TRANS (P = 0.07) while muscle superoxide dismutase activity was only greatest for TRANS (P = 0.02), suggesting TRANS steers may have experienced more oxidative stress due to the additional physical effort required to stand and maintain balance during transit. The abundance of several proteins (alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein) and metabolites (lactate, citrate, tri-hydroxybutyric acid, and leucine) associated with energy metabolism were altered in the liver and muscle of TRANS. The differential responses for DEPR versus TRANS steers indicate muscle plays an important role in how cattle respond to and recover from transportation stress.

Protective mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine guizhi fuling pills against carbon tetrachloride-induced kidney damage is through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and regulating the intestinal flora

BackgroundChemical or drug-induced kidney damage has been recognized as a critical cause of kidney failure. The oxidative stress, inflammation, and imbalance of intestinal flora caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) play a fundamental role in chronic kidney damage. Guizhi Fuling pills (GZFL) is a traditional formula consisting of five traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, which can promote blood circulation and improve kidney function. The underlying mechanisms of GZFL improving kidney damage are not fully understood yet. AimThe current study aimed to explore the effects of GZFL on CCl4-induced kidney damage and intestinal microbiota in mice. MethodsMale ICR mice were intraperitoneally administered with 20% CCl4 (mixed in a ratio of 1:4 in soybean oil) twice a week, for 4 weeks to induce kidney damage. Creatinine (CRE), urea nitrogen, antioxidant enzymes, and inflammatory cytokines were measured and the histology of the kidney, jejunum, and colon examination to assess kidney and intestinal damage. The expressions of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) family members, nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in kidney tissues, and the tight junction proteins in colonic tissues were detected by Western blot. The gut microbiota was analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. ResultsGZFL treatment decreased the serum CRE and urea nitrogen levels. Moreover, GZFL reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased antioxidant enzyme activities in kidney and colonic tissues. GZFL improved the kidney, jejunum, and colon histology. Furthermore, GZFL inhibited the expressions of NLRP3, ASC, and cleaved-Caspase-1, while Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, GCLM, and tight junction proteins were increased. The dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota improved after GZFL treatment. ConclusionsThis study showed that GZFL could improve kidney damage, which might be mainly via the integrated regulations of the Nrf2 pathway, NLRP3 inflammasome, and composition of intestinal microbiota.

Acute Exposure to Biogenic Nanosilver Produced from Fusarium oxysporum in a Neotropical Fish.

Biogenic nanosilver (bNAg) has emerged as a potentially less toxic alternative to synthetic nanosilver. However, no studies have evaluated its effects on a fish species from the Neotropical region. Thus, our aim was to evaluate the effects of a bNAg on the Neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus. For this purpose, after 24h of exposure to 100µg L-1 of bNAg, blood samples were collected to evaluate hematological, genotoxic, and plasma parameters. Gills and liver were sampled to evaluate biomarkers of oxidative stress and brain samples were used to assess neurotoxicity. The fish presented hyperglycemia, an increased number of erythrocytes, a reduction in antioxidant enzyme activity in both tissues evaluated, and a decrease in lipid peroxidation in the gills. We concluded that P. lineatus is a sensitive species to this nanoparticle, since it presented alterations in several biomarkers after an acute exposure.

L-carnitine protects cardiac damage by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory response via inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction

Brief introductionMyocardial infarction (MI) is a common manifestation of certain cardiac diseases where oxidative stress and fibrosis aggravate the condition markedly. Main objective of the studyInvestigation of L-carnitine’s cardioprotective roles and mechanism of action in a rat model of MI. MethodsTo develop a MI animal model, Isoproterenol (ISO) was administered in male Long Evans rats where animals were divided into five groups (six rats/group). The oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined by different biochemical tests. The real-time PCR was performed to determine the expression of TNF-α and Il-1β. Histopathological observations by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome were made to observe the tissue damage and fibrosis in heart and kidney. Significant findings from the studyThe ISO-treated rats showed increased levels of troponin I and lipid peroxidation and lower antioxidant enzyme activity in heart and kidney tissues. The levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were also increased in ISO-rats. Co-administration of L-carnitine with ISO reversed all these parameters. The elevated levels of uric acid and creatinine kinase and ALP, AST and ALT activities in ISO-rats were also significantly reduced by L-carnitine administration. L-carnitine markedly decreased the infiltration of inflammatory cells and improved the tissue architecture in heart and kidney. Control animals did not show any appreciable response upon L-carnitine administration. Relevant contribution to knowledgeThese results suggest that L-carnitine plays a defensive role against cardiac and renal damage in ISO-treated MI rat model via suppressing oxidative stress and increasing antioxidant enzyme functions through inhibition of TNF-α and IL-1β.

Aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata prevents Cadmium Chloride-induced testicular damage in Wistar Rats.

The role of aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata was investigated against cadmium chloride-induced testicular damage in Wistar Rats. Thirty (30) male Wistar Rats weighing (150-170) were divided into six groups (n=5). Group A served as control and received oral administration of phosphate buffer saline; group B received 800mg/kg A.digitata only; group C were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2mg/kgb.w cadmium chloride; group D were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2mg/kgb.w cadmium chloride and treated with 800mg/kg aqueous extract of A.digitata; group E received 300mg/kg vitamin E only; group F were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2mg/kgb.w cadmium chloride and treated with 300mg/kg vitamin E. After 21days, the animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, the testes were excised fixed in Bouins fluids for histological analysis and the other homogenized in 5% sucrose solution for determination of tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme activity, biochemical assay. The group treated with cadmium chloride plus A.digitata caused significant decrease in MDA levels with significant increase (p<0.05) in antioxidant activities and biochemical enzymes when compared to cadmium chloride only group. Aqueous extract of A.digitata appears to have ameliorative effect against cadmium chloride-induced testicular damage. This could be attributed to the presence of polyphenolic compound.

Mangiferin Inhibits Inflammation and Cell Proliferation, and Activates Proapoptotic Events via NF-κB Inhibition in DMBA-Induced Mammary Carcinogenesis in Rats.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory, antiproliferatiive, and proapoptotic molecular mechanisms of mangiferin (MGN) against mammary carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA). Mammary cancer in rats was induced by single-dose subcutaneous injection of 0.5 ml DMBA (80 mg/kg in sesame oil) in the mammary gland. Increased tumor incidence and volume and other tumorigenic properties were observed. Further, we observed in these rats reduced antioxidant enzyme activity and elevated thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels in plasma and tissues. DMBA-induced rats shows enhanced expression of the inflammatory markers NF-κBp65, COX-2, and iNOS and proliferation of PCNA and Cyclin D1, and overexpression of the antiapoptotic marker Bcl-2. Mangiferin (100 mg/kg body weight), administered orally once per day, significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) antioxidant levels and reduced TBARS levels. Moreover, MGN inhibited NF-κBp65 nucleus transcriptional activation, thereby suppressing inflammation and cell proliferation, and it increased proapoptotic proteins. Apoptosis was confirmed by TUNEL assay. In summary, MGN suppressed DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis through enhanced antioxidant levels, NF-κB inhibition, and positive regulation of apoptotic signals.

Neferine Inhibits 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-Induced Mammary Tumorigenesis by Suppression of Cell Proliferation and Induction of Apoptosis via Modulation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

To investigate the anticancer mechanism of neferine on DMBA-prompted mammary tumorigenesis in animals. Mammary cancer was prompted by the subcutaneous injection of 25 mg DMBA mixed in 1 ml of the vehicle (sunflower oil [0.5 ml] and saline [0.5 ml]). We analyzed the biochemical and molecular expression of cell-proliferation and apoptotic markers in normal and DMBA-induced rats. We detected low body weight, elevated quantities of lipid peroxidation, and low antioxidant enzyme activities in mammary tissues of DMBA-induced animals. We also found an invasive ductal carcinoma in DMBA-induced animals by histopathological assessment. Furthermore, western blotting findings displayed an augmented expression of PI3K, AKT, NF-κB, PCNA, cyclin D1, Ki-67, and Bcl-2, while reducing expression of p53, Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 in DMBA-induced cancer-bearing animals. RT-PCR results found upregulation of cyclin D1, PCNA, and Ki-67, and reduced expression of p53 in DMBA-prompted animals. The oral administration of neferine effectually inhibited mammary tumors via improved antioxidants and prevented lipid peroxidation activities when compared with tumor-bearing rats. Furthermore, neferine also modulated PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling through inhibiting cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in tumor-bearing rats. In our findings, we concluded that neferine has an anti-proliferative and enhancing apoptotic property against DMBA-induced mammary cancer.

Fe3O4 methylprednisolone plus calpain inhibitor protects against spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

To investigate the neuroprotective effects of pretreatment with Fe3O4 methylprednisolone plus calpain inhibitor against spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury (SCI) in rats. A total of 18 male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham operation, model, and pretreatment + SCI groups (receiving 25 mg/kg Fe3O4 methylprednisolone plus calpain inhibitor) (n = 6 each). The SCI model was established by clamping the left renal inferior abdominal aorta. Hindlimb motor function was evaluated 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after reperfusion. At 48 hours after reperfusion, spinal cord tissues were collected for histopathological examination, measurement of oxidation product accumulation (malondialdehyde, MDA), and antioxidant enzyme activity assays [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX)]. Motor function scores were compared using non-parametric rank sum (Kruskal-Wallis) test, and mean tissue MDA content and antioxidant enzyme activities were compared using one-way analysis of variance. Compared with the sham operation group, the model group showed significantly increased MDA content (2.95 vs. 5.90 g mg; P = 0.023); significantly increased GSH-Px activity (0.31 vs. 0.78 U/mg; P = 0.001); significantly decreased SOD (16.03 vs. 8.37 U/mg; P = 0.001) and CAT (1.24 vs. 0.54 U/mg; P = 0.002) activities; and significantly decreased hindlimb motor function score at 6 hours (21 to 15.5; P =0.001). Compared with the model group, the pretreatment + SCI group showed significantly decreased MDA content (5.90 vs. 3.27 mg; P = 0.0355); significantly decreased GSH-Px activity (0.78 vs. 0.36 U/mg; P = 0.001); and significantly increased SOD (8.37 vs. 14.79 U/mg; P = 0.001) and CAT (0.54 vs. 0.89 U/mg; P = 0.043) activities. Histopathological changes were significantly less severe in the pretreatment + SCI group than in the model and sham operation groups (P &lt; 0.05). Pretreatment with Fe3O4 methylprednisolone plus calpain inhibitor can prevent SCI by improving the balance between oxidation and antioxidant systems.