Antioxidant Function Research Articles

Quality characteristics and antioxidant activity of the Korean traditional rice-oat wine “Makgeolli” supplemented with green seaweed Codiumfragile

In this study, we prepared Makgeolli, a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage, by adding 20 % raw Codium fragile (Cf) to a base of rice and oats (1:1 ratio) (COM). We analyzed its quality characteristics and antioxidant activity. The rice-based Makgeolli with Cf was designated as the control (CRM). We assessed the physicochemical (pH, acidity), microbiological (yeast, lactic acid bacteria), antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS), and taste properties (7-point hedonic scale) of CRM and COM during a 7-day fermentation. The pH/acidity levels of CRM and COM reached 3.66/0.68 and 3.69/0.95, respectively, after 7 days of fermentation. Compared with CRM, COM had a lower alcohol and sugar content (P < 0.05) (CRM: 14.5 %/9.8 Brix, COM: 11.2 %/7.4 Brix). However, COM contained more yeasts and lactic acid bacteria (P < 0.05) (CRM:4.30/4.28 log, COM: 6.04/6.09 log) than CRM. The antioxidant activity of DPPH/ABTS (P < 0.05) was approximately 1.4 times higher in COM than in CRM (CRM: 40.00/51.57 %, COM: 56.76/70.91 %). In addition, COM had an excellent taste preference score (P < 0.05) due to its overall fresh flavor and taste (CRM: 4.93, COM: 6.06). Therefore, the results demonstrated that COM is a Makgeolli with enhanced antioxidant function against yeast and lactic acid bacteria, as well as improved flavor, suggesting the possibility for commercialization.

Influence of Goji Berry EM Fermentation and Saccharification Products as Cosmetic Raw Materials on Hair Protection

Purpose: Recently, as the number of cases of side effects due to exposure to chemicals has increased, consumers' anxiety about chemicals has deepened, and interest in cosmetics using natural extracts that do not use chemical ingredients has increased. No-chemicals are being created and scientific research using natural extracts is expanding. Accordingly, Goji berry, which is a natural product handed down from the private sector and is rich in various functional ingredients such as carotinoids, choline, and zeatin, and is said to be excellent for antioxidation effects, was fermented and the active ingredients and effectiveness (in vitro) were investigated.&#x0D; Method: Goji berry, which has been found to contain large amounts of functional ingredients such as betaine and rutin, is extracted through double fermentation using EM (Effective Microorganisms) and malt to obtain total polyphenol content, flavonoid content, total sugar content, DPPH radical scavenging ability, and SOD. Effectiveness (in vitro) was examined through activity, catalase activity, hydrogen peroxide, and peroxidase verified.&#x0D; Results: As a result of the measurement, the sugar content increased when the EM (Effective Microorganisms) fermented product was enzymatically fermented after extracting Goji berry fruit with purified water. The difference depending on the enzyme fermentation temperature was also higher when the enzyme fermented at 60°C compared to immediately after fermentation. The sugar content increased by about two-fold. The total polyphenol and total flavonoid content decreased when the EM (Effective Microorganisms) fermentation product of the sealed pressurized hot water extract was enzymatically fermented at 60°C.&#x0D; Conclusion: The extract double-fermented from Goji berry fruit through EM (Effective Microorganisms) fermentation and malt enzyme fermentation has excellent antioxidant ability, suggesting the possibility of using Goji berry fruit and EM (Effective Microorganisms) fermentation as a natural antioxidant. I confirmed that it exists. In particular, it has antioxidant and antibacterial functions, and its feasibility as a natural raw material used in hair products was found.

Oxidative stress causes liver injury via the damage of redox system and the apoptosis induced by mitochondria of broiler

The aim of this study was conducted to explore the effects of oxidative stress on the redox system, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis in liver of broilers. 144 one-day-old male Ross-308 broilers from the same batch had been prepared in advance and were divided into 3 treatments: normal control group (without intraperitoneal injection), normal saline group (intraperitoneal injection of normal saline), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) group (intraperitoneal injection of H2O2) with 6 replicates of 8 chickens each. The experimental period was 42 days. The injection volumes were 1.0 mL/kg of Ross-308 broiler body weight. On the 42nd day of the experimental period, two Ross-308 broilers were randomly selected from each cage, a total of 36 broilers were stunned by electric shock and slaughtered to collect liver samples. The results showed that compared with the non-injection group and the injection of saline group, H2O2 exposure elevated the relative weight of liver and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in serum of Ross-308 broilers (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, compared with the non-injection group and the injection of saline group, the H2O2 exposure increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), MDA, lipid peroxide (LPO) and protein carbonyl, decreased the activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.05). Compared with the non-injection group and the injection of saline group, the H2O2 exposure caused microvesicular steatosis and mitochondrial vacuolisation in the liver tissues of broilers. Additionally, after H2O2 exposure, the levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) positive cells were reduced and the relative percentage of hepatocyte apoptosis were increased in the liver tissues of broilers (p < 0.05). The conclusion of this study is that the oxidative stress induced by intraperitoneal injection of H2O2 could induce excessive production of ROS in broiler liver, which damage the antioxidant status and mitochondrial function of liver cells, leading to cell apoptosis. HIGHLIGHTS Oxidative stress can cause severe damage to the liver of broilers. Oxidative stress can mainly damage liver antioxidant function Oxidative stress can induce cell apoptosis by damaging mitochondria in the liver of broilers

Exploring Liraglutide in Lithium-Pilocarpine-Induced Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Model in Rats: Impact on Inflammation, Mitochondrial Function, and Behavior.

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide are known for their neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disorders, but their role in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the effects of liraglutide on several biological processes, including inflammation, antioxidant defense mechanisms, mitochondrial dynamics, and function, as well as cognitive and behavioral changes in the TLE model. Methods: Low-dose, repeated intraperitoneal injections of lithium chloride-pilocarpine hydrochloride were used to induce status epilepticus (SE) in order to develop TLE in rats. Fifty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were subjected and allocated to the groups. The effects of liraglutide on inflammatory markers (NLRP3, Caspase-1, and IL-1β), antioxidant pathways (Nrf-2 and p-Nrf-2), and mitochondrial dynamics proteins (Pink1, Mfn2, and Drp1) were evaluated in hippocampal tissues via a Western blot. Mitochondrial function in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was examined using flow cytometry. Cognitive-behavioral outcomes were assessed using the open-field, elevated plus maze, and Morris water maze tests. Results: Our results showed that liraglutide modulates NLRP3-mediated inflammation, reduces oxidative stress, and triggers antioxidative pathways through Nrf2 in SE-induced rats. Moreover, liraglutide treatment restored Pink1, Mfn2, and Drp1 levels in SE-induced rats. Liraglutide treatment also altered the mitochondrial function of PBMCs in both healthy and epileptic rats. This suggests that treatment can modulate mitochondrial dynamics and functions in the brain and periphery. Furthermore, in the behavioral aspect, liraglutide reversed the movement-enhancing effect of epilepsy. Conclusions: This research underscores the potential of GLP-1RAs as a possibly promising therapeutic strategy for TLE.

Redox Homeostasis and Molecular Biomarkers in Precision Therapy for Cardiovascular Diseases.

Precision medicine is envisioned as the future of cardiovascular healthcare, offering a more tailored and effective method for managing cardiovascular diseases compared to the traditional one-size-fits-all approaches. The complex role of oxidative stress in chronic diseases within the framework of precision medicine was carefully explored, delving into the cellular redox status and its critical involvement in the pathophysiological complexity of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The review outlines the mechanisms of reactive oxygen species generation and the function of antioxidants in maintaining redox balance. It emphasizes the elevated reactive oxygen species concentrations observed in heart failure and their detrimental impact on cardiovascular health. Various sources of ROS within the cardiovascular system are examined, including mitochondrial dysfunction, which contributes to oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA degradation. The article also addresses oxidative stress's role in myocardial remodeling, a process pivotal to the progression of heart diseases. By integrating these aspects, the review underscores the importance of redox homeostasis and identifies molecular biomarkers that can enhance precision therapy for CVDs. The insights provided aim to pave the way for targeted therapeutic strategies that mitigate oxidative stress, thereby improving patient outcomes in cardiovascular medicine.

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide promotes broiler health by regulating lipid metabolism, antioxidants, and intestinal microflora

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLP) are the primary bioactive macromolecular compounds of Ganoderma lucidum, possessing antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Hot water extract of Juncao-substrate Ganoderma Lucidum residue (HWE-JGLR) is abundant in GLP. There are few research reports on the application of HWE-JGLR in animal husbandry. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of HWE-JGLR supplementation on growth performance, serum biochemistry, the antioxidant function of serum and liver, and the intestinal microbiota of yellow-feathered broilers. The control group was fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet, while the HJ I, II, and III groups received diets supplemented with 0.25 %, 0.5 %, and 1 % of HWE-JGLR, respectively. Results showed that HWE-JGLR increased the serum HDL-C content and decreased the TG content in broilers. Moreover, HWE-JGLR enhanced the antioxidant function by the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway and the antioxidative enzyme in broilers. In addition, the cecum of the metagenomic analysis of 16S rRNA showed that the relative abundance of no-rank Ruminococcacea was increased in the HJ I group. Our findings indicate that HWE-JGLR has strong potential for development as a green feed additive based on its functions of lipid-lowering, antioxidation, and the modulation of gut microbiota composition.

Genomic analysis and functional properties of Lactobacillus johnsonii GJ231 isolated from healthy beagles.

Probiotics are one of the management tools to improve the host's healthy microbiota. The positive effects of probiotics on host health are species-specific, so probiotics isolated from host's own gut may be most beneficial. Many of the metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids, bacteriocins, and hydrogen peroxide) produced by Lactobacillus johnsonii have specific inhibitory profiles against invading pathogens. In this study, we isolated L. johnsonii GJ231 from the intestinal tract of healthy female beagles. The genome size of 1.763 M encoded a total of 1,691 predicted genes. Many carbohydrate-active enzymes responsible for carbohydrate degradation and the production of short-chain fatty acids were also predicted. The metabolic profile of short-chain fatty acids in L. johnsonii GJ231 was determined using LC-MS/MS. The bacteriocin-producing gene bacteriocin (lactacin F) in L. johnsonii GJ231 was also predicted. In vitro, experiments demonstrated that GJ231 can thrive in weak acids, 0.3% bile salts, and artificial gastrointestinal fluid models. It was tolerant of to high temperatures up to 70°C, was non- hemolytic, inhibited pathogenic bacteria, and had a high antioxidant capacity. In vivo safety experiments conducted in mice revealed that oral administration of GJ231 not only had no toxic side effect but also increased their antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, combining the above test results, which collectively demonstrate that canine-derived L. johnsonii GJ231 was a non-pathogenic, acid-tolerant and bile-salt-tolerant probiotic strain that inhibits pathogenic bacteria and improves host antioxidant function. This may make it a promising candidate for the development of innovative functional foods for pets.

Safe concentration, unsafe effects: Impact of BPA on antioxidant function in the hepatopancreas and ovarian gene expression in oriental river prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense)

This study investigated the effects of Bisphenol A (BPA), a common endocrine-disrupting chemical, on the antioxidant enzyme activities in the hepatopancreas and the expression of genes related to ovarian development in oriental river prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense). The 24hLC50 and 48hLC50 values for BPA were 80.59 mg/L and 63.90 mg/L, respectively, with a safe concentration of 12.06 mg/L. Prawns were exposed to low (4.85 mg/L), safe (12.06 mg/L), and high (30.00 mg/L) concentrations of BPA for 10 days to measure enzyme activities, and for 20 days followed by 7 days in BPA-free water to measure gene expression.Short-term exposure (12 h, 1d, 3d) to low concentration BPA did not significantly affect superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the hepatopancreas (P > 0.05), but long-term exposure (6d, 10d) significantly reduced SOD activity (P < 0.05). Catalase (CAT) activity showed no significant changes throughout the low concentration exposure period (P > 0.05). At safe and high concentrations, SOD and CAT activities significantly decreased after 12 h of exposure (P < 0.05).BPA affected heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) expression in the ovary, with low concentration BPA significantly upregulating HSP90 after 1 day (P < 0.05), but returning to normal levels after 10 and 20 days. At the safe concentration, HSP90 was significantly upregulated at all three sampling points (1d, 10d, 20d) (P < 0.05), while high concentration exposure led to significant upregulation only on day 10 (P < 0.05).Low concentration BPA had no significant effect on Cathepsin B (CB) and Cathepsin L (CL) gene expression in the ovaries (P > 0.05). However, safe concentration exposure promoted CB expression on days 1, 10, and 20 (P < 0.05), while high concentration exposure significantly increased CB expression on day 1 (P < 0.05), with levels returning to normal on days 10 and 20. CL expression significantly increased after 20 days of exposure to both safe and high concentrations (P < 0.05). Gene expression levels in the ovaries returned to normal after transfer to BPA-free water, with HSP90 and CB normalizing by day 1, and CL by day 7.These results indicate that even safe concentrations of BPA impose stress on the hepatopancreas and increase the expression of HSP90, CB, and CL genes in the ovaries, affecting ovarian development. And, these effects are reversible within a certain period after the removal of BPA.

Antioxidant Peptides Derived from Cheese Products via Single and Mixed Lactobacillus Strain Fermentation.

Probiotics are used in cheese fermentation to endow the product with unique functional properties, such as enhanced flavor and aroma development through proteolysis and lipolysis. In this study, two probiotic Lactobacillus strains, Lactobacillus plantarum A3 and Lactobacillus reuteri WQY-1, were selected to develop new probiotic cheeses in the form of single- and mixed-strain starters. The results demonstrated that the L. plantarum A3 single-strain group and the L. plantarum A3/L. reuteri WQY-1 mixed fermentation group exhibited superior product performance, particularly the release of functional hydrolysates during cheese ripening. Furthermore, Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis revealed 26 unique antioxidant peptides in the L. plantarum A3 single-strain group and 53 in the L. plantarum A3/L. reuteri WQY-1 mixed fermentation group. Among these, CMENSAEPEQSLACQCL (β-lactoglobulin), CMENSAEPEQSLVCQCL (β-lactoglobulin), and IQYVLSR (κ-casein) have been found to possess potential antioxidant properties both in vitro and in vivo. This confirmed that milk-derived protein peptides in cheese products exhibit potential antioxidant functions through the hydrolysis of probiotic strains.

Associations Between Intakes of Carotenoids and Tocopherols with Risk of Pancreatic Cancer in a Population-Based Case-Control Study

Objective Experimental studies suggest that carotenoids and tocopherols modulate pancreatic carcinogenesis because they have antioxidant and other functions. We investigated the associations between intakes of these compounds and the risk of pancreatic cancer in a case-control study conducted in 1994–1998. Methods The present analysis included 150 cases of pancreatic cancer recruited from all hospitals in the metropolitan area of the Twin Cities and Mayo Clinic and 459 controls randomly selected from the general population and frequency matched to cases by age, sex, and race. The intakes of carotenoids and tocopherols were assessed with a validated food frequency questionnaire. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the associations of interest. Results The energy-adjusted intake of lutein/zeaxanthin was significantly lower in cases (2410 µg/day) than in controls (3020 µg/day). After adjustment for confounders, persons in the fourth quartile of lutein/zeaxanthin intake had a reduced risk of pancreatic cancer compared with those in the first quartile [odds ratio (OR) (95% CI): 0.40 (0.17-0.91)]. There were no significant associations with intakes of other carotenoids and tocopherols considered and with a composite score created from all individual carotenoids examined. We did not detect any significant interactions of intakes of carotenoids and tocopherols with age, sex, cigarette smoking, or alcohol intake in relation to pancreatic cancer risk. Conclusion The present study suggests an inverse association between lutein/zeaxanthin intake and pancreatic cancer risk, but a potential beneficial effect was not observed for other carotenoids and tocopherols.

The Role of Plant Extracts in Enhancing Nutrition and Health for Dogs and Cats: Safety, Benefits, and Applications.

Plant extracts, derived from various natural sources, encompass primary and secondary metabolites, which include plant polysaccharides, polyphenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenes, and volatile oils. These compounds exhibit a range of biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial functions. Currently, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds are being incorporated into the diets of farm animals, fish, and pets to promote health benefits. Despite this, the application and potential of plant extracts in canine and feline nutrition have not been comprehensively explored. Many aspects of the mechanisms underlying the action of these plant metabolites remain to be analyzed and elucidated. Furthermore, leveraging natural plant extracts for the treatment of clinical conditions in dogs and cats is a crucial component of clinical nutrition. Consequently, this review aims to highlight the impact of plant extracts on overall health, gastrointestinal health, immune health, cardiovascular health, redox balance, and pathology in dogs and cats.

TRIM21-mediated ubiquitination of SQSTM1/p62 abolishes its Ser403 phosphorylation and enhances palmitic acid cytotoxicity

ABSTRACT Long-chain free fatty acids (FFAs) accumulation and oxidative toxicity is a major cause for several pathological conditions. The mechanisms underlying FFA cytotoxicity remain elusive. Here we show that palmitic acid (PA), the most abundant FFA in the circulation, induces S403 phosphorylation of SQSTM1/p62 (sequestosome 1) and its aggregation, which sequesters KEAP1 and activates the non-canonical SQSTM1-KEAP1-NFE2L2 antioxidant pathway. The PA-induced SQSTM1 S403 phosphorylation and aggregation are dependent on SQSTM1 K7-D69 hydrogen bond formation and dimerization in the Phox and Bem1 (PB1) domain, which facilitates the recruitment of TBK1 that phosphorylates SQSTM1 S403. The ubiquitin E3 ligase TRIM21 ubiquitinates SQSTM1 at the K7 residue and abolishes the PB1 dimerization, S403 phosphorylation, and SQSTM1 aggregation. TRIM21 is oxidized at C92, C111, and C114 to form disulfide bonds that lead to its oligomerization and decreased E3 activity. Mutagenizing the three C residues to S (3CS) abolishes TRIM21 oligomerization and increases its E3 activity. TRIM21 ablation leads to decreased SQSTM1 K7 ubiquitination, hence elevated SQSTM1 S403 phosphorylation and aggregation, which confers protection against PA-induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity. Therefore, TRIM21 is a negative regulator of SQSTM1 phosphorylation, aggregation, and the antioxidant sequestration function. TRIM21 is oxidized to reduce its E3 activity that helps enhance the SQSTM1-KEAP1-NFE2L2 antioxidant pathway. Inhibition of TRIM21 May be a viable strategy to protect tissues from lipotoxicity resulting from long-chain FFAs. Abbreviations: ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FFA: free fatty acid; HMOX1/HO-1: heme oxygenase 1; IB: immunoblotting; IF: immunofluorescence; IP: immunoprecipitation; KEAP1: kelch like ECH associated protein 1; MASH: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis; MEF: mouse embryonic fibroblast; NFE2L2/Nrf2: NFE2 like BZIP transcription factor 2; PA: palmitic acid; PB1: Phox and Bem 1; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SLD: steatotic liver disease; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TBK1: TANK-binding kinase 1; TRIM21: tripartite motif containing 21.

Effects of Sophora flavescens dietary supplementation on the growth performance, haematological indices, and intestinal bacterial community of Oreochromis niloticus.

Sophora flavescens is considered to be of various medicinal and economic importance. Previous studies have shown that it has antibacterial, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing functions. To explore the full potential of S. flavescens in fish feed development, we investigated the effects of different levels of S. flavescens added to the diet on the growth performance, haematological indices, and the intestinal bacterial community of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The feeding trial lasted for 56 days, and the initial weight of the fish was 40.00 ± 5.00 g. Nile tilapia were randomly divided into six groups: a control group (CN) and five S. flavescens supplementation groups (0.02%, 0.04%, 0.08%, 0.16%, and 0.3% [w/w] of S. flavescens in diet). The growth performance of fish increased first and then decreased with the increase of S. flavescens supplemental level. Compared with other experimental groups, the growth performance of fish supplemented with 0.08% S. flavescens was significantly improved (p < 0.05). Haematological indices exhibited that erythrocyte (RBC), along with leucocyte (WBC) indices, exhibited a secondary trend of increasing and then decreasing with the increase of S. flavescens, reaching the highest level at 0.08% (p < 0.05). However, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) exhibited a secondary trend of first decreasing and then increasing with the increase of S. flavescens and reached the lowest value at 0.08% (p < 0.05). Compared with the CN, alkaline phosphatase (AKP) significantly decreased and changed when the additional amount of S. flavescens was 0.04% in each treatment group (p < 0.05). In another way, the gut microbial profiles revealed that Bacteroides dominated the gut communities, and compared with the control group, two uncultured bacteria were suppressed. In addition, when the supplemental level of S. flavescens was more significant than 0.04%, the proliferation of Arcobacter cryaerophilus, Solibacillus silvestris, and Escherichia sp. in the gut of Nile tilapia was promoted. The results revealed that S. flavescens, as an additive to the Nile tilapia diet with levels ranging from 0.04% to 0.08%, can enhance the growth performance and immunity and promote the proliferation of intestinal beneficial bacteria of Nile tilapia.

Terminalia Chebula Extract Replacing Zinc Oxide Enhances Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Capabilities, Improves Growth Performance, and Promotes Intestinal Health in Weaned Piglets.

This study aimed to assess the effects of substituting zinc oxide with terminalia chebula extract (TCE) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and intestinal health in weaned pigs. Initially, 72 weaned Duroc × Landrace × Large White piglets, 28 days old with an initial weight of 7.43 ± 0.14 kg, equally divided by gender, were randomly assigned into three groups, with six replicates and four piglets per replicate. They were fed a basal diet (CON group), a diet containing 2 g/kg zinc oxide (ZnO group), or 2 g/kg TCE (TCE group) for a duration of 28 days. Subsequently, to further confirm the most appropriate levels of TCE in piglets, 96 piglets of the same breeds and age, with an initial weight of 7.42 ± 0.12 kg, also equally divided by gender, were randomly assigned into four groups, each with six replicates and four piglets per replicate, and fed a basal diet (CON group), or diets supplemented with 1 g/kg TCE (LTCE group), 2 g/kg TCE (MTCE group), or 4 g/kg TCE (HTCE group) for a duration of 28 days. The results demonstrated that both TCE and ZnO reduced diarrhea rates (p = 0.001) and enhanced average daily gain (ADG) (p = 0.014) compared to the control group. TCE at 1 g/kg and 4 g/kg reduced the feed to gain ratio (p = 0.050). Dietary supplementing with TCE and ZnO increased serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.020). Various doses of TCE also increased jejunal IgA (p = 0.000) levels and IL-10 expression (p = 0.004), and decreased the levels of TNF-α in both serum (p = 0.043) and jejunal mucosa (p = 0.000). Notably, TCE reduced the crypt depth (CD) of the duodenal (p = 0.007) and increased the villus height (VH) of the ileal (p = 0.045), and with increased dosage, there was a rise in the villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH:CD) in the duodenum (p = 0.000) and jejunum (p = 0.001). Higher abundances of Lactobacillaceae (p = 0.000) and lower levels of Streptococcaceae (p = 0.000) and Peptostreptococcaceae (p = 0.035) in cecal contents were fed the ZnO and TCE pigs compared with CON pigs. Therefore, TCE was firstly presented as being able to replace zinc oxide, improve intestinal morphology, and enhance antioxidant and immune functions, thus safeguarding intestinal mucosal health and promoting piglet growth.

Impaired HDL antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions are linked to increased mortality in acute heart failure patients

AimsAcute heart failure (AHF) is typified by inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, which are associated with unfavorable patient outcomes. Given the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), this study sought to examine the relationship between impaired HDL function and mortality in AHF patients. The complex interplay between various HDL-related biomarkers and clinical outcomes remains poorly understood. MethodsHDL subclass distribution was quantified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Lecithin–cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity, cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) activity, and paraoxonase (PON-1) activity were assessed using fluorometric assays. HDL-cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) was assessed in a validated assay using [3H]-cholesterol-labeled J774 macrophages. ResultsAmong the study participants, 74 (23.5 %) out of 315 died within three months after hospitalization due to AHF. These patients exhibited lower activities of the anti-oxidant enzymes PON1 and LCAT, impaired CEC, and lower concentration of small HDL subclasses, which remained significant after accounting for potential confounding factors. Smaller HDL particles, particularly HDL3 and HDL4, exhibited a strong association with CEC, PON1 activity, and LCAT activity. ConclusionsIn patients with AHF, impaired HDL CEC, HDL antioxidant and anti-inflammatory function, and impaired HDL metabolism are associated with increased mortality. Assessment of HDL function and subclass distribution could provide valuable clinical information and help identify patients at high risk.

Surface modification of sodium hyaluronate with ferulic acid to enhance its application performance

AbstractHyaluronic acid (HA) is a mucopolysaccharide alternately linked by glucuronic acid and n‐acetylglucosamine, which is usually used as a moisturizer in cosmetics. In this study, HA derivative (FA‐HA) was prepared by modifying sodium hyaluronate with ferulic acid (FA). The chemical and morphological structure of FA‐HA were characterized by UV, FTIR, 1H‐NMR, DLS and TEM. The results showed that FA was grafted onto HA chains via ester bonds and self‐assembled into nanoparticles in aqueous solution. The introduction of FA endowed the nanoparticles with antioxidant function. The FRAP value of 10 mg/mL FA‐HA was 1.985 mM, and the clearance rate of O2−, DPPH+ and ABTS+ could reach 83.13%, 88.86% and 99.48% respectively. Moreover, FA‐HA can be used as Pickering emulsifiers to stabilize the emulsion. The results showed that the size of emulsion droplets decreased as the concentration of FA‐HA increased. When the mass ratio of oil to water was 7/3, the emulsion droplets were the smallest. The addition of sodium chloride will increase the size of emulsion droplets, destroying the stability of the emulsion. In addition, FA‐HA was also universal and was capable of emulsifying alkanes, esters, and natural oils, which was expected to be applied in the cosmetics and food fields.

Biomimetic nanoplatform with microbiome modulation and antioxidant functions ameliorating insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction for T2DM management

Insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction are the main pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, insulin therapy and diabetes medications do not effectively solve the two problems simultaneously. In this study, a biomimetic oral hydrogen nanogenerator that leverages the benefits of edible plant-derived exosomes and hydrogen therapy was constructed to overcome this dilemma by modulating gut microbiota and ameliorating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Hollow mesoporous silica (HMS) nanoparticles encapsulating ammonia borane (A) were used to overcome the inefficiency of H2 delivery in traditional hydrogen therapy, and exosomes originating from ginger (GE) were employed to enhance biocompatibility and regulate intestinal flora. Our study showed that HMS/A@GE not only considerably ameliorated insulin resistance and liver steatosis, but inhibited the dedifferentiation of islet β-cell and enhanced pancreatic β-cell proportion in T2DM model mice. In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, HMS/A@GE augmented the abundance of Lactobacilli spp. and tryptophan metabolites, such as indole and indole acetic acid, which further activated the AhR/IL-22 pathway to improve intestinal-barrier function and metabolic impairments. This study offers a potentially viable strategy for addressing the current limitations of diabetes treatment by integrating gut-microbiota remodelling with antioxidant therapies.

A Flavonoid Concentrate from Moringa Oleifera Lam. Leaves Extends Exhaustive Swimming Time by Improving Energy Metabolism and Antioxidant Capacity in Mice.

Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves contain various nutrients and bioactive compounds. The present study aimed to assess the anti-fatigue capacity of a flavonoids concentrate purified from M. oleifera Lam. leaves. The total flavonoids in the purified extract were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). The mice were supplemented with purified M. oleifera Lam. leaf flavonoid-rich extract (MLFE) for 14 days. The weight-loaded forced swimming test was used for evaluating exercise endurance. The 90-min non-weight-bearing swimming test was carried out to assess biochemical biomarkers correlated to fatigue and energy metabolism. UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified 83 flavonoids from MLFE. MLFE significantly increased the swimming time by 60%. Serum lactate (9.9 ± 0.9 vs. 8.9 ± 0.7), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (8.8 ± 0.8 vs. 7.2 ± 0.5), and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) (2.4 ± 0.2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3) were significantly elevated; phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), glucokinase (GCK), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA expression were significantly downregulated; and heme oxygenase 1 mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in muscle after swimming. MLFE supplement significantly decreased serum lactate (8.0 ± 1.0 vs. 9.9 ± 0.9), BUN (8.6 ± 0.4 vs. 8.9 ± 0.8), and NEFA (2.3 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.2) and increased the protein and mRNA expression of GCK, PEPCK, and Nrf2. The enhancement of glucose metabolism and antioxidant function by MLFE contributes partly to its anti-fatigue action.

Role of Melatonin in Periodontal Diseases: A Structured Review.

Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland and plays a role in regulating circadian rhythm. It influences the physiologic processes, such as the activation of the immune system and the antioxidant function. Melatonin has been reported in the samples of patients with periodontitis. Therefore, the role of melatonin in periodontal diseases must be appraised. Using the strategy of electronic search of various databases, we included studies, published until December 2021, measuring the expression of melatonin in patient samples and evaluating the effect of periodontal therapy on melatonin expression. This review also included studies evaluating the effect of melatonin supplementation on periodontal parameters. In total, 15 articles fulfilled the study inclusion criteria. The results revealed that melatonin is negatively correlated with the severity of periodontal diseases, and melatonin supplementation reduces the levels of periodontal inflammatory parameters. Hence, melatonin has a role in periodontal diseases, but additional studies are warranted to substantiate its use as a biomarker and host modulatory agent.

Beneficial effects of Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, immune status, antioxidant function and intestinal microbiota in broilers

Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) has been globally regarded as antibiotic alternative in animal farming in the past few years. However, the potential function of L. plantarum in broilers has not been systemically explored. In this study, a total of 560 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into 3 groups, fed with basal diet and drank with L. plantarum HJZW08 (LP) at the concentration of 0 (CON), 1000 × 10^5 (LP1000), and 2000 × 10^5 CFU/L (LP2000) for 70 d. Results showed that the body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgY, and anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10) were markedly improved (P < 0.05), while the levels of pro-inflammatory IL-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum were decreased (P < 0.05) in the LP2000 group comparing with the CON group. Besides, LP treatment groups prominently increased the levels and activities of antioxidant enzymes and decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). Additionally, the levels of isobutyric acid in the LP1000 and LP2000 groups and isovaleric acid in the LP2000 group were significantly improved. More importantly, the α-diversity and microbial structure of intestinal microbiota were pronounced altered by LP supplementation. The results showed that only the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota was significantly increased in the LP2000 group, while 6 kinds of bacteria on genus level were significantly changed. For further validation, linear discriminant analysis with effect size (LEfSe) plots revealed that 8 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were predominant in the CON group, while Bacteroides and other beneficial species such as Lactimicrobium massiliense (ASV4 and ASV36), Intestinimonas butyriciproducens (ASV71), and Barnesiella viscericola (ASV152 and ASV571) were enriched in the LP groups. Taken together, dietary supplementation with LP obviously enhanced the immune status, antioxidant capacity, and stabilized the cecal microbiota and SCFAs, contributing to the improvement of growth performance of broilers. Our study laid good foundation for the application of probiotic Lactobacillus in animal industry in the future.