Antioxidant System Parameters Research Articles

The evaluations of oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in threatened endemic fish Barbus meridionalis from Osor River (Spain)

Mediterranean barbel (Barbus meridionalis) an endemic species is currently facing habitat destruction and pollution in Osor River (Spain) due to mining runoff that has severely deteriorated the water quality by metals, primarily zinc (Zn). In order to assess the potential risk of metal contamination and hydrological changes in the Osor River by using oxidative stress and neurotoxicity biomarkers via IBR analyses in the barbel, five different stations were chosen: upstream (S1: reference site and S2: hydrologically changed), mine (S3), and downstream (S4 and S5). The highest tissue metal levels were measured particularly at S3 and following downstream sites. SOD activity and the GSH system parameters (GPX, GST, and GSH) were the most sensitive oxidative stress indicators among the antioxidant system parameters. The organs with the greatest changes in antioxidant biomarkers were the liver and gill. As a sign of neurotoxicity, AChE activities significantly raised in the brain and muscle but drastically lowered in the kidney, liver, and gill particularly in the area of mine and downstream compared to reference site. Integrated biomarker response index (IBR) method was applied to visualize the affect of metal and hydrological alterations with biomarker response according to sites in the Osor River. IBR analyzes together with correlations between metal levels and oxidative stress biomarkers, emphasized that S2 and S3 have the greatest impact on the biomarker levels due to mine activity and hydrological changes highlighting the vulnerability to extinction of native fish B. meridionalis. It is also critical to assess the current data based on the multi-biomarker approach for a range of detrimental effects on fish fitness at the individual level as well as population persistence from an ecological standpoint.

Silicon attenuates nutritional disorder of phosphorus in seedlings of Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla

BackgroundNutritional disorders of phosphorus (P), due to deficiency or toxicity, reduce the development of Eucalyptus spp. seedlings. Phosphorus deficiency often results in stunted growth and reduced vigor, while phosphorus toxicity can lead to nutrient imbalances and decreased physiological function. These sensitivities highlight the need for precise management of P levels in cultivation practices. The use of the beneficial element silicon (Si) has shown promising results under nutritional stress; nevertheless, comprehensive studies on its effects on Eucalyptus spp. seedlings are still emerging. To further elucidate the role of Si under varying P conditions, an experiment was conducted with clonal seedlings of a hybrid Eucalyptus spp. (Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla, A207) in a soilless cultivation system. Seedlings were propagated using the minicutting method in vermiculite-filled tubes, followed by treatment with a nutrient solution at three P concentrations: a deficient dose (0.1 mM), an adequate dose (1.0 mM) and an excessive dose (10 mM), with and without the addition of Si (2mM). This study assessed P and Si concentration, nutritional efficiency, oxidative metabolism, photosynthetic parameters, and dry matter production.ResultsSi supply increased phenolic compounds production and reduced electrolyte leakage in seedlings provided with 0.1 mM of P. On the other hand, Si favored quantum efficiency of photosystem II as well as chlorophyll a content in seedlings supplemented with 10 mM of P. In general, Si attenuates P nutritional disorder by reducing the oxidative stress, favoring the non-enzymatic antioxidant system and photosynthetic parameters in seedlings of Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla.ConclusionThe results of this study indicate that Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla seedlings are sensitive to P deficiency and toxicity and Si has shown a beneficial effect, attenuating P nutritional disorder by reducing the oxidative stress, favoring the non-enzymatic antioxidant system and photosynthetic parameters.

Evaluation of Himalayan nettle (Urtica ardens) extract meal in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) feed: Impact on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity and antioxidant capacity

This research aims to evaluate the impact of an extract derived from the leaves of Himalayan nettle (Urtica ardens) leaf extract on common carp, Cyprinus carpio, growth, digestive enzymes, fish body carcass composition, antioxidant system, and water quality parameters. For a duration of 90 days, experimental diets containing nettle extract were given to 150 fish (12.38 ± 0.53 g) in 15 tanks (10 fish per tank). The five groups in triplicate were: control or T0 (untreated), T1 (fed 0.3% extract), T2 (0.6% extract), T3 (0.9% extract), and T4 (1.2% extract). Results revealed that nettle extract in the diet increases common carp growth up to 0.9% concentration of extract. Its feed conversion ratio decreases, while weight gain and specific growth rate rise significantly compared to the control diet. No mortality was observed during the 90-day experiment. Dietary nettle extract did not affect whole-body fibre and crude ash percentages (p > 0.05). Nettle-fed and control groups showed significant differences in crude protein, body fat, and total body moisture (p < 0.05). After a 90-day feeding trial, 0.9% nettle extract-fed fish had higher protease, amylase, lipase, and cellulase levels than the control group (p < 0.05). When nettle content reached 1.2%, enzyme activity decreased. Orthophosphate production peaked at 4 and 8 hours after feeding, while ammonia excretion peaked at 2 and 6 hours. The control group excreted the most ammonia and orthophosphate, while the 0.9% group excreted the least. Liver and kidney SOD levels were higher in common carp fed a 0.6% nettle extract diet. Feeding with a 0.9% nettle extract diet improved hepatic lipid peroxidation, gut and liver glutathione. Gut and kidney SOD, catalase, LPO, and GSH increased dramatically on the 1.2% diet. Statistically, the 0.9% nettle extract (T3) group showed the overall best results compared to the control diet. These findings demonstrate the potential of nettle extract as a dietary supplement in aquaculture.

Accumulation of Salicylic Acid and 12-oxo-phytodienoic Acid Acting on the Antioxidant Pathway to Keep Stability of Striped Leaves of Variegated Temple Bamboo

Variegated temple bamboo (Sinobambusa tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata) is one of the native variegated bamboo species has some whole green (WG) and whole white (WW) leaves in addition to striped green and white ones. The life span of WW leaves is short, but the life span of striped leaves (SLs) is unaffected by the area of white mesophyll, and the SL phenotype is well maintained. To explore the mechanism of phenotypic stability of SL, we took five leaf phenotypes as study materials: WG, WW, SL, the green part of SL (SG), and the white part of SL (SW). Through the measurement of photosynthetic pigments, leaf nutrient elements, chloroplast synthesis–related hormones and their precursors in the leaves, and antioxidant system parameters, we examined the antioxidant adaptation mechanism of the white mesophyll cells of S. tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata. The results indicated that abscisic acid (ABA) levels were substantially higher in WW leaves than in SW leaves, and salicylic acid (SA) levels were significantly higher in SW leaves compared with WW leaves. Levels of 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid (OPDA), and SA were substantially higher in WW and SW than in the leaves of the other three phenotypes. Glutathione (GSH) levels were substantially higher in SW than in SG and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were significantly lower. Overall, the white mesophyll cells of S. tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata had strong antioxidant properties. SA and OPDA jointly act on the antioxidant pathway to reduce the content of ROS in leaves, thus ensuring the stability of SL.

Physiological and biochemical in vivo study of polyphenols and 20-hydroxyecdisone from quinoa grains effect on resistance to physical exercise in Wistar rats

Increasing the ability of the human body to adapt to physical stress is relevant from the standpoint of using foods for special uses containing functional food ingredients (FFI) with effectiveness proven in vivo. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of FFI from Chenopodium quinoa grains with a high content of polyphenols and phytoecdysteroids on the physical endurance of male Wistar rats. Material and methods. The experiment was carried out during 36 days using 50 weaned male Wistar rats. The animals were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=12): Control, Run and Run-FFI. Rats of the Control and Run groups received a standard semisynthetic diet during the experiment. Rats of the Run-FFI group received a semi-synthetic diet with the addition of FFI in an amount of 0.055±0.003%, containing phytoecdysteroids (50.4±0.6 mg/g) and polyphenols (212.0±2.0 mg/g). During the experiment, the rats were assessed for their neuromotor function (grip strength of front paws), memory, and behavioral reactions in the "Elevated Plus Maze" (EPM), "Conditioned Passive Avoidance Reflex" (CPAR) and "Open Field" (OF) tests. Once a week, animals from the Run and Run-FFI groups were subjected to moderate physical load on a "Treadmill". On the 36th day of the experiment, the animals of these groups were subjected to exhausting physical load. Immediately after running, the animals were placed in metabolic cages to collect daily urine. At the end of the experiment, the content of corticosterone, the activity of catalase, indicators of protein, lipid and mineral metabolism, indexes of the liver functional state and antioxidant defense system parameters were analyzed in the blood serum; the level of prostaglandin E2 and dopamine were determined in daily urine. Results. Physiological tests (CRAR, OF) showed that weekly exercise increased anxiety in laboratory animals. The FFI introduction into the diet led to normalization of the assessed parameters (EPM). As a result of 36-day consumption of FFI against the background of physical loads, a significant decrease by 22% in the main stress marker, corticosterone, was revealed in the blood of rats, as well as significant increase by 23% in the stress inhibitor - prostaglandin E2 urinary excretion, compared with animals of the Run group to the level not differed from the indicators of the control animals. There were no differences in endurance performance between the Run and Run-FFI groups on the results of the exhaustive exercise. Consumption of FFI prevented the formation of excess ammonia, significantly reducing the level of urea in the blood and normalizing its excretion to control levels in the urine, which was increased in the Run group by 19%. Conclusion. The results obtained demonstrated the adaptogenic properties of the developed FFI in response to stress caused by weekly moderate and acute exhaustive physical activity. The obtained data on the biological effect of the developed FPI on the adaptive potential of laboratory animals will serve as an experimental basis for its inclusion in the composition of specialized foods.

Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) improves the antioxidant system but induces lipid accumulation in the liver of rats.

Acrocomia aculeata pulp (ACP) is a source of oleic acid, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids that protect against diseases and improve antioxidant capacity. We evaluated whether regular intake of ACP, in combination with a standard diet, improves the antioxidant system and physiological parameters. Male Wistar rats were divided into: control (C), 250 mg/kg ACP, and 500 mg/kg ACP groups. Rats received either water or the respective A. aculeata solution doses for 28 days. We observed increased food intake, lower carcass protein levels, and higher carcass lipid levels in the 500 mg/kg ACP group than in the other groups. Postprandial glucose, oral glucose tolerance test results, and the area under the curve were greater, while urea was lower in the 500 mg/kg ACP group. Total liver lipids were increased, and PPAR-α, PPARγ, and carbonylated protein levels were reduced in the 500 mg/kg ACP group. NRF2 contents and glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were increased in the 500 mg/kg ACP group. In the 250 mg/kg ACP group, only glutathione system activity increased. Thus, ACP intake improved the enzymatic antioxidant system in the liver at the evaluated doses, although the 500 mg/kg dose induced alterations in lipid, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Assessment of antioxidant system status before and after operation in neonates with congenital heart disease.

Oxidative stress is considered to have a significant role in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) as well as many other diseases. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the antioxidant system status at pre- and post-operative period in newborns with congenital heart disease (CHD) requiring operation. Fifty CHD patients participated in this research. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels were studied in blood samples. RACHS-1 score, blood lactate levels, and hypoxic events were also recorded. Comparisons of antioxidant system parameters were conducted at pre- and post-operative periods and also between exitus and discharged groups. GPx activity and TBARS levels were significantly higher in the pre-operative period than post-operative period though the other antioxidant enzymes were not altered. In pre-operative period, GPx activity was low in addition to rarer hypoxic events in the discharged group. Also, a negative correlation was found between SOD and GPx activities in pre-operative period. The results provide fundamental data showing the lowered GPx activity and TBARS levels considered as sensitive oxidative biomarkers after the operation. It was assumed that antioxidant system parameters might show changes after the operation, and GPx is prominent for resistance to hypoxic conditions. Post-operative reduction of GPx and TBARS levels is significant for evaluating the antioxidant system alterations after the operation. However, further investigations follow long-term duration for post-operative monitoring to estimate how antioxidant system status changes to improve the treatment of the health condition.

A comprehensive model for predicting the development of defense system of Capparis spinosa L.: a novel approach to assess the physiological indices

Capparisspinosa L. (caper) is a halophytic plant that grows in semi-arid or arid environments. The current study used an integrated experimental and computational approach to investigate the network of inter-correlated effective variables on the activity of antioxidant enzymes, proline, and photosynthetic pigments in stressed caper. To investigate the possible relationships among intercorrelated variables and understand the possible mechanisms, predictive regression modelling, principal component analysis (PCA), Pearson's correlation, and path analysis were implemented. PCA successfully discerned different salt ratio- and drought-specific effects in data in the current study, and treatments with higher growth indices are easily recognizable. Different salt ratios did not have a significant effect on the activity of four antioxidant enzymes, proline and photosynthesis pigments content of caper. While at the mean level, the activity of four antioxidant enzymes of SOD, POD, CAT, and APX significantly increased under drought stress by 54.0%, 71.2%, 79.4%, and 117.6%, respectively, compared to 100% FC. The drought stress also significantly increased the content of carotemoid (29.3%) and proline (by 117.7%). Predictive equation models with highly significant R2 were developed for the estimation of antioxidant enzyme activity and proline content (> 0.94) as well as pigments (> 0.58) were developed. Path analysis studies revealed that proline is the most important regressor in four antioxidant enzyme activities, while leaf tissue density was the most effective variable in the case of chlorophylls. Furthermore, the network of intercorrelated variables demonstrated a close relationship between caper's antioxidant defence system, pigments, and morphological parameters under stress conditions. The findings of this study will be a useful guide to caper producers as well as plant ecophysiological researchers.

Polyphosphate fertilizer impacts the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity of wheat plants grown under salinity

By 2050, the predicted global population is set to reach 9.6 billion highlighting the urgent need to increase crop productivity to meet the growing demand for food. This is becoming increasingly challenging when soils are saline and/or deficient in phosphorus (P). The synergic effect of P deficiency and salinity causes a series of secondary stresses including oxidative stress. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production and oxidative damage in plants caused either by P limitation or by salt stress may restrict the overall plant performances leading to a decline in crop yield. However, the P application in adequate forms and doses could positively impact the growth of plants and enhances their tolerance to salinity. In our investigation, we evaluated the effect of different P fertilizers forms (Ortho-A, Ortho-B and Poly-B) and increasing P rates (0, 30 and 45 ppm) on the plant's antioxidant system and P uptake of durum wheat (Karim cultivar) grown under salinity (EC = 3.003 dS/m). Our results demonstrated that salinity caused a series of variations in the antioxidant capacity of wheat plants, at both, enzymatic and non-enzymatic levels. Remarkably, a strong correlation was observed between P uptake, biomass, various antioxidant system parameters and P rates and sources. Soluble P fertilizers considerably enhanced the total plant performances under salt stress compared with control plants grown under salinity and P deficiency (C+). Indeed, salt-stressed and fertilized plants exhibited a robust antioxidant system revealed by the increase in enzymatic activities of Catalase (CAT) and Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and a significant accumulation of Proline, total polyphenols content (TPC) and soluble sugars (SS) as well as increased biomass, Chlorophyll content (CCI), leaf protein content and P uptake compared to unfertilized plants. Compared to OrthoP fertilizers at 45 ppm P, Poly-B fertilizer showed significant positive responses at 30 ppm P where the increase reached + 18.2% in protein content, + 156.8% in shoot biomass, + 93% in CCI, + 84% in shoot P content, + 51% in CAT activity, + 79% in APX activity, + 93% in TPC and + 40% in SS compared to C+. This implies that PolyP fertilizers might be an alternative for the suitable management of phosphorus fertilization under salinity.

Does Dietary Sodium Alginate with Low Molecular Weight Affect Growth, Antioxidant System, and Haemolymph Parameters and Alleviate Cadmium Stress in Whiteleg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)?

Decreasing low molecular weight can improve the digestibility and availability of ingredients such as sodium alginate. This study aimed to test the four dosages of low molecular weight sodium alginate (LMWSA) (0%: Control, 0.05%: 0.5 LMWSA, 0.10%: 1.0 LMWSA, and 0.2%: 2.0 LMWSA) in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) (3.88 ± 0.25 g) for eight weeks. After finishing the trial, shrimp were exposed to cadmium (1 mg/L) for 48 h. While feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved in shrimp fed dietary 2.0 LMWSA (p < 0.05), there was no significant difference in growth among treatments. The results showed a linear relation between LMWSA level and FCR, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) before; and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), GST, and alanine transaminase (ALT) after cadmium stress (p < 0.05). The GST, MDA, ALT, and aspartate transaminase (AST) contents were changed after stress but not the 2.0 LMWSA group. The survival rate after stress in 1.0 LMWSA (85.23%) and 2.0 LMWSA (80.20%) treatments was significantly higher than the Control (62.05%). The survival rate after stress negatively correlated with GST and ALT, introducing them as potential biomarkers for cadmium exposure in whiteleg shrimp. Accordingly, the 2.0 LMWSA treatment had the best performance in the abovementioned parameters. As the linear relation was observed, supplementing more levels of LMWSA to reach a plateau is recommended.

Oxidative modification of proteins and antioxidant status in blood of the rats with experimental acute generalized peritonitis against the background of streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Modern aspects of the pathogenesis of acute inflammation of the peritoneum that is concurrent with diabetes involves analysis of metabolic mechanisms, in particular peroxidaton of proteins – antioxidant defense. Therefore, the objective of our study was to examine the interrelation between the processes of free-radical oxidation of proteins and antioxidant system in the dynamics of development of acute generalized peritonitis against the background of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. The study was performed on 56 non-linear white mature male rats. Diabetes mellitus was modeled by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). On the 14th day of the development of streptozotocin-induced diabetes, we injected 10% filtrated faeces suspension (0.5 mL) into the abdominal cavity, thus initiating acute generalized peritonitis. Oxidative modification of proteins in blood serum was studied using the I. F. Meshchyshen’s method and the condition of antioxidant protection was monitored according to the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, content of reduced glutathione, and the level of ceruloplasmin. The study of the parameters of free-radical oxidation of proteins and study of the condition of antioxidant system in blood of the rats with experimental acute generalized peritonitis against the background of streptozotocin-induced diabetes demonstrated that oxidative protein modification grew, while the parameters of the activity of antioxidant system were being inhibited, depending on the stage of acute inflammation of the peritoneum. We determined inverse correlation relationships between the products of free-radical oxidation of proteins and parameters of antioxidant system on the third and on the seventh days of modelling of combined pathology. Manifestation of acute generalized peritonitis concurring with streptozotocin-induced diabetes was accompanied by a gradual accumulation of the products of free-radical oxidation of proteins and exhaustion of the antioxidant defense during all stages of the development of acute inflammation of the peritoneum, peaking on the seventh day after administration of faecal suspension (terminal stage of peritonitis). The observed inverse correlations between the levels of oxidative modification of proteins and the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, and ceruloplasmin on the third and on the seventh days of modelling of combined pathology indicate a predictive role of the processes of free-radical oxidation of proteins in exhaustion of antioxidant-defense resources.

Morpho-physiological and biochemical responses in wheat foliar sprayed with zinc-chitosan-salicylic acid nanoparticles during drought stress

Drought is considered as a significant stress that hampers growth, development as well as productivity of wheat crop around the globe. The present investigation was performed to determine the changes induced by drought on morpho-physiology, antioxidative system, metabolism and yield parameters in wheat crop. The study also focussed on evaluating the effect of zinc-chitosan-salicylic acid (ZCS) nanoparticles in alleviating physiological and biochemical alterations and overcoming yield losses caused by drought. Drought was provided during the vegetative stage on four different varieties (two drought tolerant viz. C-306 and PBW-644 and two drought susceptible viz. HUW-322 and HUW-843) by withholding irrigation and maintaining moisture capacity of soil at 40%. ZCS nanoparticles were foliar sprayed on wheat at concentrations of 100, 200 and 400 mg L−1. Application of ZCS nanoparticles at 100 mg L−1 significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced relative water content (RWC), alleviated levels of antioxidative enzymes like superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase and guaiacol peroxidase and metabolites like proline, ascorbate, malondialdehyde and flavanoid in wheat leaves subjected to drought. Drought recovery was noteworthy in tolerant as well as sensitive varieties. Water stress reduced grain yield / plant by nearly 45% in tolerant varieties and nearly 50% in sensitive varieties. Spray of the nanoparticles on wheat foliage incremented the yield to 63% and 41% in tolerant varieties and 50% and 46% in sensitive varieties. This study suggests an outstanding role of ZCS nanoparticles at a concentration of 100 mg L−1 in mitigation of ill effects of drought. These nanoparticles have the ability to improve osmotic status of plant, enhance synthesis of osmoprotectants, activate ROS scavenging enzymes for maintaining membrane integrity and cellular protection and promote yield increment during drought stress. This implicates its role in ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture with reduction in environmental pollution due to limited use of fertilizers.

Metabolic Consequences of the Water We Drink: A Study Based on Field Evidence and Animal Model Experimentation.

The effect of the chronic consumption of water contaminated with residual concentrations of DDT's metabolites (DDD-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane and DDE-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene) found in the environment were evaluated on the biometric, hematological and antioxidant system parameters of the hepatic, muscular, renal and nervous tissues of Wistar rats. The results showed that the studied concentrations (0.002 mg.L-1 of DDD plus 0.005 mg.L-1 of DDE) could not cause significant changes in the hematological parameters. However, the tissues showed significant alteration in the activity of the antioxidant system represented by the increase in the activity of the enzymes gluthathione S-transferases in the liver, superoxide dismutase in the kidney, gluthathione peroxidase in the brain, and several changes in enzymatic activity in muscle (SOD, GPx and LPO). The enzymes alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) were also evaluated for the amino acids' metabolism in the liver, with ALT showing a significant increase in the exposed animals. In the integrative analysis of biomarkers (Permanova and PCOA), the studied concentrations showed possible metabolic changes and damage to cellular structures evidenced by increased oxidative stress and body weight gain among the treated animals. This study highlights the need for further studies on the impact of banned pesticides still present in soils that may induce adverse effects in organisms that may prevail in future generations and the environment.

Effect of dendritic cell vaccine on blood redox status in patients with cervical cancer

Purpose of the study. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the dynamics of parameters of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with advanced cervical cancer (CC) receiving anticancer treatment with dendritic cell vaccine (DCV).Patients and methods. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activity were studied in 27 patients aged 27–65 years with advanced primary and recurrent CC receiving chemotherapy (CT) with DCV or DCV as monotherapy at a dose of 10 million cells intradermally once a week. The same indices were studied in 20 healthy women from the comparison group.Results. The majority of patients showed the initial increase of MDA: in blood plasma by an average of 66.7 %, in red blood cells – statistically insignificant. After CT, MDA levels were elevated respectively in primary and recurrent patients in erythrocytes by 85.6 % and 96.4 % compared to donors, and by 53.9 % and 33.7 % compared to the initial values; the levels in plasma were elevated by 79.8 % and 57.1 % compared to donors. After 5–7 DCVs in combination with CT, MDA levels in erythrocytes and in blood plasma were similar to the donor values. MDA in erythrocytes of patients receiving DCV without CT decreased by 36 % compared to initial values. Oxidase activity of ceruloplasmin, initially increased by 34.2–57.1 %, normalized after DCV. Superoxide dismutase activity decreased by 16.7–27.3 % after 4–6 DCVs and normalized after 7 DCVs. Catalase activity, initially reduced by more than 40 %, remained 20–38 % lower than the norm at all stages of DCV. In this setting, hydrogen peroxide was probably inactivated by glutathione peroxidase whose activity was increased at all stages of treatment and decreased only when MDA was normalized after 7 DCVs.Conclusion. Administration of 5–7 DCVs in combination with CT or as monotherapy to patients with advanced CC normalizes parameters of free radical oxidation and antioxidant system of the blood.

Metabolic, Antioxidant and Hematologic Adjustment of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp) Fed Commercial Diets with Different Protein Levels and Reared in Sea Water with Biofloc

This study was conducted to evaluate the physiological response of juvenile red tilapia Oreochromis sp. (initial average body weight of 2.82 ± 0.02 g) reared in seawater with biofloc and fed extruded commercial diets containing 25, 35 and 40% of crude protein (P25, P35 and P40, respectively). After 7 weeks of assay, fish fed P35 and P40 showed similar weight gain, specific growth rate, fed conversion ratio and Fulton's condition factor. Both, P35 and P40 showed higher values of growth performance than P25 treatment. Otherwise, fish from P35 showed the lower activity of metabolic enzymes (ASAT, ALAT, GK, FBPase, G6PD and FAS) than P40. While, fish from P25 showed the highest levels of catalase activity and lower values of hepatic lipid peroxidation (like MDA). However, the decrease in protein in the diets was reflected in the decrease in Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration, as well as a decrease in the concentration of albumin in the blood plasma. In conclusion, the marine biofloc allows hybrid red tilapia juveniles to be fed with 35% CP without compromising their productive performance, antioxidant system and hematological parameters.

Seasonal Variation of Water Quality Modulated Redox Regulatory System in the Apple Snail Pila globosa and Its Use as a Bioindicator Species in Freshwater Ecosystems across India

Studies on oxidative stress physiology on molluscs to monitor the aquatic environment, influenced by pollutants and stressors are very limited in general and in Indian apple snails, P. globosa in particular. The main focus of the present study was to establish the baseline data on a redox regulatory system in P. globosa sampled across the Indian subcontinent. Snails were sampled from different zones of India in three seasons (rainy, summer and winter) and the redox regulatory system (levels of antioxidant enzyme activities and small redox regulatory molecules) and oxidative stress indicator (lipid peroxidation) were analyzed. The observed elevated lipid peroxidation level in the summer season accompanied with elevated pH, salinity and temperature indicates induction of stress. In the summer season, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GR) enzymes were augmented, whereas the level of the free -SH group and the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were found to be increased. Similarly, correlation analysis between the antioxidant system and aquatic parameters revealed that SOD, CAT and GR were influenced by pH as well as salinity, whereas CAT was strongly correlated with temperature. Collectively, our data indicate the use of P. globosa as a model organism to monitor and access the freshwater environment by determining the redox regulatory status of this animal.

Mechanism of Response of Alveolar Macrophages in Wistar Rats to the Composition of Atmospheric Suspensions

Atmospheric air quality is a crucial factor in the health of human populations. Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is one of the most dangerous components polluting urban air. The aim of the present article is to study the effect of model suspensions (MS) of SPM that are characteristic of the composition of atmospheric air at locations with various anthropogenic loads on redox processes in alveolar macrophages (AM). Atmospheric air sampling was carried out in the breathing zone according to the method developed by one of the authors. AM were isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of experimental animals. The MS of SPM were prepared in accordance with the actual air pollution: MS No. 1 corresponded to an area with a low man-made load, and MS No. 2 corresponded to an area with a high man-made load. Load tests with model suspensions were carried out for 2 days. Parameters of oxidant processes and antioxidant system (AOS) were determined in cells and culture media. The proportion of the influence of the qualitative and dispersed composition of MS and the indicator of intra-system tension were calculated based on correlation dependencies. The atmospheric air with a high man-made load was dominated by particles up to 10 µm, whereas air with an insignificant man-made load contained SPM of more than 10 µm in size. Unidirectional changes were observed due to an exposure to both model suspensions, but the most pronounced oxidative modifications of lipids, proteins and genetic structures were caused by the exposure to MS No. 2. When exposed to MS No. 1, the AOS maintained the redox balance at the physiological level, localizing the resulting destruction inside the cells. MS No. 2 caused the redox balance to shift towards oxidants, potentiating the generalization of the destruction process. An increase in the content or a longer stress-inducing effect of PM2.5 causes a depletion in the reserve capacity of the AOS and the transition of destruction processes to the systemic level, which contributes to the development of the preconditions for environmentally dependent pathology.

Synergistic Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Alleviates Cadmium Toxicity in Linum usitatissimum: Antioxidants and Physiochemical Studies

Among heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) is one of the toxic metals, which significantly reduce the growth of plants even at a low concentration. Cd interacts with various plant mechanisms at the physiological and antioxidant levels, resulting in decreased plant growth. This research was conducted to exploit the potential of synergistic application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and Moringa oleifera leaf extract in mitigation of Cd stress in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) plants. The main aim of this study was to exploit the role of M. oleifera leaf extract and ZnO NPs on Cd-exposed linseed plants. Cd concentrations in the root and shoot of linseed plants decreased after administration of MZnO NPs. Growth parameters of plants, antioxidant system, and physiochemical parameters decreased as the external Cd level increased. The administration of MZnO NPs to the Cd-stressed linseed plant resulted in a significant increase in growth and antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the antioxidative enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) exhibited a considerable increase in the activity when MZnO NPs were applied to Cd-stressed seedlings. The introduction of MZnO NPs lowered the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the linseed plant grown in Cd-toxic conditions. The NPs decreased electrolyte leakage (EL) in Cd-stressed linseed leaves and roots. It was concluded that synergistic application of ZnO NPs and M. oleifera leaf extract alleviated Cd stress in linseed plants through enhanced activity of antioxidant enzymes. It is proposed that role of MZnO NPs may be evaluated for mitigation of numerous abiotic stresses.

Tocopherol Enhances the Antioxidant Defense System and Histomorphometric Parameters in The Gastrointestinal Tract of Rats Treated with Sodium Arsenite.

Arsenic compromises the gastrointestinal integrity and function via the body's anti-oxidative system breakdown. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of tocopherol on redox imbalance and histoarchitectural alterations in rats' gastrointestinal tract exposed to sodium arsenite. Sodium arsenite and graded doses of tocopherol were administered orally into experimental rats assigned to different groups for four weeks concurrently. Redox status assay was done in homogenized samples by spectrophotometry. Parietal cell mass and mucous cell density (stomach), villus height and crypt depth (ileum), goblet cells count, and crypt depth (colon) were evaluated by histomorphometry. Inflammatory cells infiltration was also assessed using a semi-quantitative procedure.Sodium arsenite caused a significant increase in Malondialdehyde and Myeloperoxidase but, decreased Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, Nitric oxide, Glutathione peroxidase, Glutathione, and Glutathione-S-Transferase. Tocopherol treatment reversed the changes (p<0.05) though not largely dose-dependent. Furthermore, tocopherol annulled sodium arsenite-induced increase in parietal cell mass and decrease in mucous cell density in the stomach, decrease in villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio in the ileum, and decrease in goblets cells and increase in crypt depth in the colon. Moreover, activated inflammatory cell infiltration by sodium arsenite was mitigated by tocopherol. Sodium arsenite provokes not only marked inflammatory cellular infiltration but a focal loss of glands, hyperplasia of crypts, atrophic villi, and hypertrophy of Peyer's patches in the intestines, which are all lessened with tocopherol treatment. These findings underscore the anti-oxidative properties of tocopherol as a potent dietary factor against sodium arsenite toxicity in the gastrointestinal tract. Keywords: Tocopherol, arsenic, stomach, ileum, colon.

EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF "PRAVAD" POLYVALENT FUNCTIONAL FEED ADDITIVE

In the modern market of feed and feed additives, a new trend has emerged - functional feeding complexes that heal fish, correct its metabolism, and increase productivity and quality of fish products. Such feed additives include "PRAVAD" polyvalent functional feed additive. The aim of the research was to study the effect of the new feed additive "PRAVAD" on parameters of fish antioxidant system. In order to accomplish this, two groups of sexually mature African catfish were formed. The first experimental group received PRAVAD feed supplement containing probiotics, adaptogens, essential amino acids and vitamins. It was used in addition to the main diet - "Som" feeds of LimKorm company. The control group, which was the second, received only LimKorm “Som” feed. Three months later, the content of glutathione (GSH) and the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were examined. As for fish reared with application of "PRAVAD" polyvalent functional feed additive, the GSH level of males was two times higher than that of the fish of the control group. GST activity in the group of males and females fed with the feed additive was more than 30% higher than in fish of the control group. The obtained results indicate that application of "PRAVAD" polyvalent functional feed additive in the diet of African catfish is highly effective and leads to a decrease of the damaging effect of oxidative stress. This mechanism is realized by increase of glutathione level and glutathione-S-transferase activity, both of which increase resistance to free radical and peroxide processes.