Antioxidant Enzyme Activities Research Articles

Repercussion of manufacture and digestion process of foods enriched with sesame flour on the antioxidant response of human hepatocyte cultures

As natural bioactive compounds with recognized antioxidant power, polyphenols may impact on several diseases associated with oxidative stress. In this study, defatted sesame flour (DSF) was investigated as a potential source of dietary polyphenols and a functional ingredient. Additionally, the impact of manufacture and digestion processes on the biological efficacy of the resulting extracts in the HepG2 cell line was explored. For this purpose, polyphenolic extracts were obtained from three sources: DSF, a control sweet cookie formulation and 10% DSF-enriched cookies. In addition, extracts of potentially bioaccessible polyphenols from in vitro digested cookies were collected. Cells were incubated with all these extracts and then injured with H2O2. Intracellular oxidative state and viability, antioxidant enzymes activities, glutathione (GSH) content, and oxidation of proteins and lipids were analyzed. The results showed DSF pro-oxidant actions on the cellular redox state, which hormetically enhanced the antioxidant response. Similarly, biological activity of DSF enriched cookies was found to persist after manufacture and digestion, promoting lipid peroxidation alleviation and GSH replenishment.By promoting an antioxidant response in cells, DSF may be considered for functional incorporation, offering preventive benefits and protective action to counterbalance oxidative damage. This study contributes to highlighting the benefits of DFS validating its final biological effects in a cellular model.

New Application of an Old Drug: Anti-Diabetic Properties of Phloroglucinol.

Phloroglucinol (PHG), an analgesic and spasmolytic drug, shows promise in preventing high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance. In Wistar rats, 10 weeks of PHG treatment did not prevent HFD-induced weight gain but significantly mitigated fasting hyperglycemia, impaired insulin responses, and liver steatosis. This protective effect was not linked to hepatic lipogenesis or AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. Instead, PHG improved mitochondrial function by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing ATP production, and increasing anti-oxidant enzyme activity. PHG also relaxed gastric smooth muscles via potassium channel activation and nitric oxide (NO) signaling, potentially delaying gastric emptying. A pilot intervention in pre-diabetic men confirmed PHG's efficacy in improving postprandial glycemic control and altering lipid metabolism. These findings suggest PHG as a potential therapeutic for NAFLD and insulin resistance, acting through mechanisms involving mitochondrial protection, anti-oxidant activity, and gastric motility modulation. Further clinical evaluation is warranted to explore PHG's full therapeutic potential.

CfSGR1 and CfSGR2 from Cryptomeria fortunei exhibit contrasting responses to hormones and abiotic stress in transgenic Arabidopsis

Stay-green (SGR) genes are pivotal regulatory genes in the context of plant chlorophyll metabolism, but few studies on SGR homologues in Cryptomeria fortunei have been previously reported. We cloned two CfSGR genes and overexpressed them in Arabidopsis to explore their functions. Full-length CfSGR1 and CfSGR2 are 1265 and 1197 bp, encompassing open reading frames (ORFs) encoding 274 and 276 amino acids, respectively. SGRs exhibited high conservation in higher plants, and phylogenetic analysis indicated that SGRs from monocots and gymnosperms cluster in a clade. The proteins localized to chloroplasts and showed no transcriptional activity in yeast cells. The CfSGR gene expressions were induced by abiotic stresses and hormones. Under conditions of darkness, abscisic acid (ABA), salt, drought, or freezing stress, CfSGR2-transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited a delay in leaf yellowing compared to the WT, which was attributed to increased chlorophyll content and enhanced photosynthetic capacity. These transgenic plants exhibited improved resistance to stress via upregulated expression of resistance-related genes, increased antioxidant enzyme activities, and reduced malondialdehyde content and electrolyte leakage rate. In contrast, CfSGR1-transgenic plants may accelerate leaf yellowing and exhibit reduced stress resistance. Our findings highlight potential divergence in the functions of CfSGR genes concerning plant growth and development and responses to abiotic stresses or hormones, providing a scientific foundation for future breeding of stress-resistant C. fortunei cultivars.

The importance of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and treatment of bipolar affective disorder: a review of the literature

Introduction: Bipolar affective disorder (BD), also known as manic-depressive illness, is a chronic and recurrent psychiatric disorder characterised by significant mood disturbances. It is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and is associated with a high risk of suicide. Recent studies highlight the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of BD. The body's pro/antioxidant imbalance adversely affects cellular and molecular processes. Aim: The aim of this review is to synthesise the current state of knowledge on the role of OS in the aetiology and course of BD, including key biomarkers and potential therapeutic interventions. Methods: A review of the scientific literature was conducted, including articles published between 2000 and 2024. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, using the following keywords: 'bipolar disorder', 'oxidative stress', 'antioxidants', 'biomarkers', 'mitochondrial dysfunction', 'redox homeostasis', 'treatment'. Results: Results indicate that patients with BD have elevated levels of OS markers, including increased lipid peroxidation, altered antioxidant enzyme activity and impaired redox homeostasis. Treatment with lithium and other mood stabilisers may modulate levels of OS markers, which is one potential mechanism of drug action. However, inconclusive data suggest the need for further research to clarify the relationship between OS and BD. Conclusions: OS plays an important role in the pathophysiology of BD, offering potential directions for therapeutic interventions. Understanding the complex interactions between OS and BD may lead to the development of more targeted therapies aimed at reducing oxidative damage and improving patient health. Keywords: oxidative stress, bipolar affective disorder, redox, lipid peroxidation, protein damage, antioxidants, lithium

Protective Effect of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate against Hepatic Oxidative Stress Induced by tert-Butyl Hhydroperoxide in Yellow-Feathered Broilers.

Recent studies have shown that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), as an effective antioxidant, could attenuate the oxidative damage, inflammation and necrosis in the liver in response to oxidative stress. The present study investigated whether oral administration of EGCG could effectively alleviate the hepatic histopathological changes and oxidative damage in yellow-feathered broilers induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP). Broilers were exposed to 600 μmol t-BHP/kg body weight (BW) to induce oxidative stress by intraperitoneal injection every five days, followed by oral administration of different doses of EGCG (0, 20, 40 and 60 mg/kg BW) and 20 mg vitamin E (VE)/kg BW every day during 5-21 days of age. The results showed that t-BHP injection decreased (p < 0.05) body weight and the relative weight of the spleen; the enzyme activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT) and total superoxide dismutase (SOD); and gene mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), CAT, SOD1, SOD2 and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACACA); as well as increased (p < 0.05) necrosis formation, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, reactive oxygen species (ROS)accumulation, and peroxisome proliferator activates receptor-α (PPARα) mRNA expression in the liver of yellow-feathered female broilers at 21 days of age. Treatment with 60 mg EGCG/kg BW orally could enhance antioxidant enzyme activities and reverse the hepatic damage induced by t-BHP injection by reducing the accumulation of ROS and MDA in the liver and activating the Nrf2 and PPARα pathways related to the induction of antioxidant gene expression (p < 0.05). In conclusion, intraperitoneal injection of t-BHP impaired body growth and induced hepatic ROS accumulation, which destroyed the antioxidant system and led to oxidative damage in the liver of yellow-feathered broilers from 5 to 21 days of age. It is suggested that EGCG may play an antioxidant role through the Nrf2 and PPARα signaling pathways to effectively protect against t-BHP-induced hepatic oxidative damage in broilers, and the appropriate dose was 60 mg EGCG/kg BW by oral administration.

Effects of Various Levels of Water Stress on Morpho-Physiological Traits and Spectral Reflectance of Maize at Seedling Growth Stage

Water stress (drought and waterlogging) is one highly important factor affecting food security in China. Investigating the effects of soil moisture stress on the morphological and physiological characteristics of maize seedlings is crucial for ensuring food production. The use of spectral monitoring to observe crop phenotypic traits and assess crop health has become a focal point in field crop research. However, studies exploring the contribution of crop phenotypic and physiological data to the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) are still limited. In this study, a 35-day pot experiment was conducted with seven soil moisture gradients: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% (control group, CK), 90%, 100%, and 110% treatment. In order to investigate the effects of soil moisture stress on seedling phenotypes, antioxidant enzyme activities, and NDVI, an ASD FieldSpec 4 Hi-Res NG portable spectrometer was used to collect spectral data from maize (Zea mays L. B73) leaves. The contributions of maize phenotypic and physiological traits to NDVI were also examined. The results indicated that (1) the 50% and 110% treatments significantly affected maize seedling phenotypes compared to the CK group; (2) the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) in the leaves increased under water stress, while the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) decreased; (3) soil moisture stress (drought and waterlogging) reduced photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll content (SPAD), and NDVI, with inhibitory effects intensifying as the stress level increased; (4) Redundancy analysis showed that antioxidant enzymes explained 69.87% of the variation in seedling height, leaf area, and NDVI. Soil moisture stress, chlorophyll, and SPAD explained 58.14% of the variation in these parameters. The results demonstrated that maize seedlings were highly sensitive to soil moisture changes, and the SPAD value contributed significantly to NDVI (p &lt; 0.01). This study provides valuable insights for future research in precision agriculture management

Strigolactone Alleviates NaCl Stress by Regulating Antioxidant Capacity and Hormone Levels in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Seedlings

Salt stress is a key environmental factor altering rice plant growth. Strigolactones (GR24) play a vital role in responding to various abiotic stresses and regulating plant growth. However, the regulatory mechanisms of SLs on rice seedlings under salt stress have not yet been clarified. A pot experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effects of GR24 soaking on the rice variety ‘Huanghuazhan’ (salt-sensitive) seedling growth, antioxidant metabolism, and endogenous hormones under NaCl stress. Results showed that NaCl stress significantly inhibited rice growth; disrupted antioxidant enzymes activity; and increased the content of soluble proteins (SPs), proline (Pro), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen–peroxide (H2O2). GR24 significantly improved photosynthetic pigments and antioxidant–enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate–peroxidase (APX); increased SP, ascorbic acid (AsA); and reduced glutathione (GSH) content and MDA, H2O2, and Pro content, resulting in the mitigation of oxidative injury caused by NaCl stress. Moreover, GR24 significantly increased the content of strigolactones (SLs), cytokinin (CTK), auxin (IAA), Gibberellin A3 (GA3), and IAA/ABA and CTK/ABA ratios and decreased the abscisic acid (ABA). Findings indicated that GR24 alleviated oxidative damage caused by NaCl stress by increasing photosynthetic and antioxidant capacity and maintaining the balance of endogenous hormones, thus improving the salt tolerance of rice seedlings.

Dietary Addition of Selenium Attenuates Cadmium-Induced Liver Injury in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis

In order to investigate the effects of selenium (Se) against cadmium (Cd) toxicity, 180 healthy grass carp were separated into three groups and fed diets containing 0.147 (control group), 0.562, and 1.044 mg/kg of selenium Yeast throughout 60 days. In grass carp livers, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, antioxidant enzyme activities, and apoptosis-related gene expression were examined. As a result of acute exposure to cadmium, MDA content decreased significantly. With time, catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities changed. The relative transcript levels of heavy metal scavenging genes abcc2 and mt2 were significantly reduced. The relative levels of expression of jnk, bax, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in apoptosis-associated factors were significantly elevated after cadmium exposure. Selenium-supplementation downregulated the expression of apoptosis-related factors. As compared to the control group, liver cells supplemented with selenium had a significantly lower apoptotic index. Comprehensive analysis showed that dietary selenium supplementation significantly attenuated cadmium-induced peroxidative damage and apoptosis in liver by increasing GSH-Px activity, and that cadmium toxicity could be alleviated by the addition of yeast selenium.

Transcriptomic and Phenotypical Analysis of the Physiological Plasticity of Chamaecyparis hodginsii Roots under Different Nutrient Environments and Adjacent Plant Competition.

Chamaecyparis hodginsii seedlings undergo significant changes during growth due to different nutrient environments and adjacent plant competition, which is evident in the physiological plasticity changes in their roots. Therefore, in this experiment, 20 one-year-old elite C. hodginsii family seedlings were selected as the test objects, and the different nutrient environments and adjacent plant competition environments in nature were artificially simulated. Four nutrient environments (N heterogeneous nutrient environment, P heterogeneous nutrient environment, K heterogeneous nutrient environment, and homogeneous environment) and three planting patterns (single plant, conspecific neighbor, and heterospecific neighbor) were set up to determine the differences in root physiological indexes and plasticity of different family seedlings, and the families and treatment combinations with higher comprehensive evaluation were selected. The transcriptome sequencing of fine roots of C. hodginsii under different treatments was performed to analyze the differentially expressed genes. The results showed that the root activity, antioxidant enzyme activity, and nutrient element content of C. hodginsii seedlings in the N and P heterogeneous environments were higher than those in the homogeneous nutrient environment, while there was no significant difference between the K heterogeneous nutrient environment and the homogeneous environment, but MDA content was higher than that in other nutrient environments. The root activity and antioxidant enzyme activity in the competitive patterns were generally higher than those in the single plant and reached the peak in the heterospecific neighbor. The root physiological plasticity index of line 490 was the highest, but the comprehensive evaluation of root physiological indexes of lines 539 and 535 was better. The pattern with the highest comprehensive evaluation score was P heterogeneous nutrient environment × heterospecific neighbor. The effects of the N and P heterogeneous nutrient environments on root transcriptome genes were similar, which significantly increased DNA transcription and regulatory factor activity, while K heterogeneous nutrient environment focused on the regulation of root enzyme activity. The heterogeneous nutrient environment induces the conduction of hormone signals in the roots of C. hodginsii and induces the synthesis of phenylpropanone. The biosynthesis of phenylpropanone in the roots of C. hodginsii will increase significantly under competitive patterns. In summary, the N and P heterogeneous nutrient environments and the heterospecific neighbor can improve the root physiological indexes of C. hodginsii families, and the root physiological indexes of lines 539 and 535 are the best. The nutrient environment and competition pattern mainly affect the root system to transmit hormone signals to regulate enzyme activity.

Capsinoids Increase Antioxidative Enzyme Activity and Prevent Obesity-Induced Cardiac Injury without Positively Modulating Body Fat Accumulation and Cardiac Oxidative Biomarkers.

Capsinoids are potential antioxidant agents capable of reducing oxidative damage and the resulting complications triggered by obesity. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of capsinoids on adiposity and biomarkers of cardiac oxidative stress in obese rats induced by a high-fat diet. Male Wistar rats were exposed to a high-fat diet for 27 consecutive weeks. After the characterization of obesity (week 19), some of the obese animals began to receive capsinoids (10 mg/kg/day) by orogastric gavage. Adiposity and comorbidities were assessed. In the heart, remodeling, injury, and biomarkers of oxidative stress were determined. The treatment did not reduce obesity-induced adiposity but was efficient in reducing cholesterol levels. Capsinoid treatment did not cause a difference in heart and LV mass, despite having reduced troponin I concentrations. Furthermore, capsinoids did not reduce the increase in the advanced oxidation of protein products and carbonylated proteins caused by obesity in cardiac tissue. In addition, obese rats treated with capsinoids presented high levels of malondialdehyde and greater antioxidant enzyme activity compared to untreated obese rats. In conclusion, treatment with capsinoids increases antioxidative enzyme activity and prevents obesity-induced cardiac injury without positively modulating body fat accumulation and cardiac oxidative biomarkers.

New insights into evodiamine attenuates IPEC-J2 cells pyroptosis induced by T-2 toxin - Activating Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway through binding with Keap1

T-2 toxin (T-2) is a highly toxic mycotoxin with a molecular weight of 466.52 g/mol. Evodiamine (EV), an alkaloid component of Evodia, has anti-inflammation and antioxidant properties. As a receptor of oxidative stress, Keap1 with a molecular weight of 70 kDa, is a molecular switch that controls the Nrf2 signaling pathway. In this paper, the effect of EV on Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB pathway was investigated. Based on our research outcomes, it was observed that T-2 exposure substantially increased IPEC-J2 cells intracellular ROS levels and MDA accumulation, decreased SOD and CAT activities, disrupted intestinal tight junction (ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1), and up-regulated pyroptosis-related protein (ASC, NLRP3, caspase-1, GSDMD, IL-1β, and IL-18). Additionally, EV could bind well with Keap1, the separating it from Nrf2, promoting Nrf2 into the nucleus, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced the production of ROS, down-regulated NF-κB expression, alleviated T-2-induced pyroptosis, and restored tight junction protein expression. However, after treatment with the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385, ML385 reversed the protective effect of EV on IPEC-J2 cells. Collectively, EV can activate the Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway via binding to Keap1, exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, inhibit the pyroptosis of IPEC-J2 cells triggered by T-2, and retore intestinal barrier function.

Methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid treatment changes the nutritional quality, antioxidant profile and gene expression of postharvest blackberry fruit

Blackberry fruit is rich in various nutrients and has strong antioxidant activity. However, these fruit are soft, juicy, prone to decay and spoilage, and not suitable for storage. To ensure the quality of blackberry fruit and extend its shelf life, this study used methyl jasmonate (MJ), salicylic acid (SA), or MJ+SA to treat mature blackberry fruit after harvesting. And measure the fruit appearance indicators, antioxidant contents, antioxidant enzyme activities, and related gene expression levels stored at 4 °C for different durations. The results showed that the MJ, SA, and the combination of MJ+SA treatments could slow fruit softening by increasing antioxidant contents and antioxidant enzyme activities, with MJ+SA having the greatest effect on the postharvest treatment of blackberry. Compared with those in the control, the DPPH radical scavenging capacity, total phenol and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant enzyme (POD, GSH, and SOD) activities were increased in three hormone treatment groups. Moreover, the expression levels of key genes involved in flavonoid and phenol compound synthesis were upregulated in all the postharvest treatment groups. There was a positive correlation between the contents of total phenol and flavonoid and between their related structural enzyme-encoding genes and transcription factors. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of hormone application for prolonging the shelf life and changing in the antioxidant activity of blackberry fruit.

Salinity Tolerance Mechanism of Crithmum maritimum L.: Implications for Sustainable Agriculture in Saline Soils

Edible halophytes are attracting attention due to their potential for agriculture in saline and marginal areas. The salt tolerance mechanism was analyzed in Crithmum maritimum L., based on ionic, osmotic, and redox homeostasis strategies under salt stress. The methodology involved growing C. maritimum seeds in pots under controlled greenhouse conditions and exposing them to different NaCl concentrations (0, 100, 200, and 300 mM) for five months. High salinity levels decreased plant length and biomass, but the shoot-to-root length and biomass ratio increased significantly. Photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids) were quantified using spectrophotometric analysis, while macro- and micro-nutrient contents were determined via the Kjeldahl method, flame photometry, and atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Osmolyte accumulation, including proline and glycine betaine, was analyzed using specific biochemical assays, and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and POX) were measured to assess redox homeostasis. Photosynthetic pigments in C. maritimum leaves slightly increased at 100 mM NaCl, but significantly declined at 200 and 300 mM NaCl. A high Na content in the shoots indicated no restriction in mineral uptake in the roots. Nitrogen and phosphorus slightly decreased under high salinity. The cation content in the shoots varied: potassium decreased, while calcium and magnesium increased with salinity, although the Mg+2/Na+ and K+/Na+ ratios showed similar declining patterns. The micro-nutrients iron and manganese increased in the shoots, while copper remained unchanged. The content of osmolytes proline and glycine betaine significantly increased under the 200 and 300 mM NaCl treatments. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and POX) decreased at 100 and 200 mM NaCl, but were strongly induced at 300 mM NaCl. The total antiradical activity of the leaves increased with higher salinity levels. Our results indicated that the facultative halophyte characteristics of C. maritimum emerged after exposure to 200 mM NaCl. Increased calcium content may be a key factor in salinity tolerance. We concluded that C. maritimum employs strong osmotic adjustment and redox homeostasis mechanisms, making it a promising candidate for cultivation in saline environments.

Phloretin inhibits the growth of Arabidopsis shoots by inducing chloroplast damage and programmed cell death

Phloretin is a key secondary metabolite produced by apple trees. Known for its strong antioxidant properties, this dihydrochalcone has been extensively studied in animals but less so in plants. Recently, we identified phloretin as a phytotoxic allelochemical that inhibits growth in the model plant Arabidopsis by disrupting auxin metabolism and distribution in the roots. In this study, we found that phloretin significantly hinders the growth of Arabidopsis seedlings' aerial parts after a short-term treatment (10 days) and causes their decay after long-term exposure (28 days). These effects result from ultrastructural damage in the mesophyll cells of the leaves, including chloroplast displacement and swelling, lesions, and alterations in thylakoid and cell wall organization. Interestingly, phloretin-treated plants showed a decrease in malondialdehyde levels and antioxidant enzyme activities, while hydrogen peroxide and proline levels remained unchanged. This suggests that phloretin-induced chlorosis and seedling decay are not due to oxidative stress but rather to severe chloroplast structural damage, leading to inefficient photosynthesis, starch degradation, starvation, and activation of micro- and macroautophagic processes for self-preservation. Ultimately, these processes result in programmed cell death. These new insights into the phytotoxic effects of phloretin on Arabidopsis shoots could pave the way for future research into phloretin as a potential multitarget bioherbicide and enhance our understanding of autoallelopathy in apple trees.

Effects of LED polarized and vortex light on growth and photosynthetic characteristics of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

Most studies currently focus on traditional illuminant regulating plant growth, while less attention has been given to the LED internal luminescence. This study examined how polarized and vortex light affect the growth and photosynthetic traits of pepper plants, with LED light used as the control. The findings indicated that circular polarized light significantly increased the aboveground biomass of pepper. Additionally, both polarized and vortex light treatment significantly influenced the root development of pepper. In comparison to the control group, the chlorophyll content was highest under circular polarized light, while the Pn, Sc, Tr, and Ci values were highest under linear polarized light, and the enzyme activity of Rubisco was increased. Circular polarized light notably increased the activities of POD, CAT, and SOD, the activity of SOD reached its peak under the left vortex light. Moreover, the content of MDA was observed to be the lowest under linear and right vortex light treatments. The expressions of key genes for chlorophyll synthesis (CaHEMA1 and CaCAO) and antioxidant enzyme synthesis (CaPOD, CaSOD, and CaMDHAR) were significantly altered under varying polarized light conditions, The latter genes, which play crucial roles in antioxidant enzyme activity, also showed significant variations in response to different polarized light treatments. In conclusion, polarized light significantly impacts the growth of pepper and is anticipated to be utilized for plant growth, setting the stage for future research in this area.

Possible protective effect of remifentanil against testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury

Abstract Objectives This study aims to evaluate the protective efficacy of remifentanil against testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods The study included 24 male rats. The rats were randomized into three groups: Group 1 was the control group. Group 2 was subjected to a testicular torsion/detorsion model. Group 3 underwent similar procedures and additionally received remifentanil (0.6 μg/kg/min) intravenously for the first 20 min of reperfusion. Blood samples were taken for biochemical analyses, and orchiectomy was performed for histopathologic examination. Results Biochemical analysis of blood samples showed a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p:0.004 and p:0.002, respectively). There was a dramatic decrease in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 Beta), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p:0.001, p:0.046, and p:0.004, respectively). Similarly, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p:0.004). Histopathologic examination of Group 3 rats showed positive changes in inflammation, hemorrhage, edema, and congestion levels compared to Group 2 (p&lt;0.001). Similarly, there was a positive effect on the Johnsen and Cosentino score in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p:0.001 and p&lt;0.001, respectively). Conclusions In our study, it has been documented that remifentanil protects against testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Functional characterization of malate dehydrogenase, HcMDH1, gene in enhancing abiotic stress tolerance in kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)

Drought and salt stress are two important environmental factors that significantly restrict plant growth and reproduction. Malate dehydrogenase is essential to life as it is engaged in numerous physiological processes in cells, particularly those related to abiotic stress reactions. However, a complete understanding of MDH family members in kenaf is not clear yet. In this study, subcellular localization analysis and a yeast transcriptional activation assay revealed that HcMDH1 was localized in chloroplasts but had no transcriptional activation activity. When exposed to salt or drought stress, yeast cells expressing the HcMDH1 gene exhibit an increased survival rate. Overexpression of HcMDH1 in Arabidopsis increased seed germination rate and root growth when transgenic lines were exposed to varying concentrations of mannitol and NaCl. Subsequent physiological studies revealed that transgenic lines had higher concentrations of soluble carbohydrates, proline, and chlorophyll and lower concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, inhibiting HcMDH1 in kenaf using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) decreased salt and drought tolerance due to elevated ROS and MDA levels. In these silenced lines, the expression of six essential genes engaged in stress-resistance and photosynthesis, namely HcGAPDH, HcGLYK, HcFBA, HcFBPase, HcPGA, and HcLSD, is significantly altered under salt and drought stress. In summary, HcMDH1 is a complex and positive regulatory gene that plays a key role in regulating chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulation under salt and drought stress, which may have implications for kenaf transgenic breeding.Graphical

Exogenous Melatonin Alleviates NaCl Injury by Influencing Stomatal Morphology, Photosynthetic Performance, and Antioxidant Balance in Maize.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is sensitive to salt stress, especially during seed germination and seedling morphogenesis, which limits maize growth and productivity formation. As a novel recognized plant hormone, melatonin (MT) participates in multiple growth and developmental processes and mediates biotic/abiotic stress responses, yet the effects of salt stress on maize seedlings remain unclear. Herein, we investigated the effects of 150 μM exogenous MT on multiple phenotypes and physiologic metabolisms in three-leaf seedlings across eight maize inbred lines under 180 mM NaCl salt stress, including growth parameters, stomatal morphology, photosynthetic metabolisms, antioxidant enzyme activities, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Meanwhile, the six gene expression levels controlling antioxidant enzyme activities and photosynthetic pigment biosynthesis in two materials with contrasting salt resistance were examined for all treatments to explore the possible molecular mechanism of exogenous MT alleviating salt injury in maize. The results showed that 150 μM exogenous MT application protected membrane integrity and reduced ROS accumulation by activating the antioxidant system in leaves of maize seedlings under salt stress, their relative conductivity and H2O2 level average reduced by 20.91% and 17.22%, while the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) averaged increased by 13.90%, 17.02%, 22.00%, and 14.24% relative to salt stress alone. The improvement of stomatal size and the deposition of photosynthetic pigments were more favorable to enhancing photosynthesis in leaves when these seedlings treated with MT application under salt stress, their stomatal size, chlorophyll content, and net photosynthetic rate averaged increased by 11.60%, 19.64%, and 27.62%. Additionally, Gene expression analysis showed that MT stimulation significantly increased the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes (Zm00001d009990, Zm00001d047479, Zm00001d014848, and Zm00001d007234) and photosynthetic pigment biosynthesis genes (Zm00001d011819 and Zm00001d017766) under salt stress. At the same time, 150 μM MT significantly promoted seedling growth and biomass accumulation. In conclusion, our study may unravel crucial evidence of the role of MT in maize seedlings against salt stress, which can provide a novel strategy for improving maize salt stress resistance.

Interactions between feed protein source and feeding frequency on growth performance and health status of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides).

In order to evaluate the effects of the interaction between different proteins and feeding frequency on largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and to provide scientific guidance for the application of novel proteins and the corresponding optimal feeding strategy, a two-factorial design (5 × 3) with five protein feeds (fishmeal (FM), Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP), Tenebrio molitor (TM), Chlorella meal (ChM), cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC)), and three feeding frequency (1, 2, and 3 times/d; FF1, FF2, FF3) was designed in culturing largemouth bass (initial weight, 2.98 ± 0.22g/fish) for 8weeks. Z-score combined with cluster analysis was used to analyze and compare the effects of different treatments on different indicators, such as growth performance, feed utilization, antioxidant capacity, and immune response to draw a general picture of the relationship among all these massive biomarkers. The results showed that different protein sources and feeding frequencies had significant interactive effects on growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, body lipid, and health status of largemouth bass. Fish fed with ChM feed showed similar performance to that in FM group, implying its potential for complete replacement of fishmeal in largemouth bass. Fish fed with CAP, TM, and CPC feeds showed worse performance compared to FM and ChM groups, characterized by poor growth and feed utilization, enhanced stress, chronic inflammation, and varying symptoms of histological changes in the liver and intestine, which demonstrated the adverse effects of the complete replacement of fishmeal by these three proteins. In terms of feeding frequency, fish fed with FM feed in FF3 group led to liver hypertrophy, fat accumulation, and the risk of fatty liver, while inducing liver inflammation. In addition, the TM and CAP group had the higher expression levels of inflammatory factors at FF3 group, which displayed that the interactions between FM, CAP, TM feeds and feeding frequency at FF3 might aggravate the occurrence of liver inflammation and oxidative damage of hepatocytes. Overall, FF2 had higher feed efficiency, protein efficiency, antioxidant enzyme and lysozyme activities, lower MDA content, and lower gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and could be considered as the optimum feeding frequency for largemouth bass fed with different protein feeds.

Stimulating action of sodium nitroprusside and vinasse on salicin and direct regeneration in Salix Safsaf Forssk.

The present study aimed to enhance salicin and direct regeneration inwillow (Salix safsaf Forssk) using the sodium nitroprusside (SNP) regulation of nitric oxide (NO) and vinasse for its nutrition effect in culture medium. Internodes of Salix safsaf were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with benzyl adenine (BA) (0.25 mg L-1) and different concentrations of SNP (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg L-1) or vinasse (0, 5, 10, and 20%) to examine shoot regeneration, antioxidant defense enzyme activity, total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and salicine contents. The reported data revealed that application of SNP at15 mg L-1 and vinasse at10% induced asignificant effectin vitro Salix safsaf shoot regeneration. To confirm that, nitric oxide is required for auxin-mediated activation of cell division in a dose-dependent manner. A concentration of 15 mg L-1 SNP promotes regeneration and salicin accumulation (3162.16mg/100g) during signaling action. On the other hand, the cross talk effect of nitric oxide and vinasse combination inSalix safsaf significantly induced a synergistic effect on direct propagation more than vinasse alone. SNP significantly stimulates salicylate accumulation in a dose-dependent manner, but the data on the association of vinasse and SNP on salicylate up-regulation showed a significant reduction in salicin accumulation when SNP was combined with 10% vinasse, which directly affected the signaling action of SNP as secondary product stimulators. Vinasse's phenolic compounds affect directly on thereduction activity ofSNP to suppress its signaling action, or indirectly by inhibiting the sequence cascade of the SNP signaling transduction process to decrease the accumulation of salicin contents. Data confirmed that vinasse andSNP stimulatedtheantioxidant enzymes activity throw quenching thestimulated reactive oxygen species that produced via SNP. Results show that modified media with SNP administration at 15 mg L-1 and the combination of vinasse at 10% and SNP at 15 mg L-1 are recommended for modifying tissue culture media for induced direct regeneration and salicin accumulation in tissue culture applications, which will be very useful for commercial salicin overproduction as a biological active ingredient in willows.