Administration Of Antioxidants Research Articles

Optimization of Laser-Based Method to Conduct Skin Ablation in Zebrafish and Development of Deep Learning-Based Method for Skin Wound-Size Measurement

Skin plays an important role as a defense mechanism against environmental pathogens in organisms such as humans or animals. Once the skin integrity is disturbed by a wound, pathogens can penetrate easily into a deeper part of the body to induce disease. By this means, it is important for the skin to regenerate quickly upon injury to regain its protective barrier function. Traditionally, scientists use rodents or mammals as experimental animals to study skin wound healing. However, due to concerns about animal welfare and increasing costs of laboratory animals, such as rodents, scientists have considered alternative methods of implementing replace, reduce, and refine (3Rs) in experimentation. Moreover, several previous studies on skin wound healing in fish used relatively expensive medical-grade lasers with a low calculation efficiency of the wound area, which led to human judgment errors. Thus, this study aimed to develop a new alternative model for skin wound healing by utilizing zebrafish together with a new rapid and efficient method as an alternative in investigating skin wound healing. First, in order to fulfill the 3Rs concept, the pain in the tested zebrafish was evaluated by using a 3D locomotion assay. Afterward, the obtained behavior data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by Dunn’s multiple comparisons tests; later, 3 watts was chosen as the power for the laser, since the wound caused by the laser at this power did not significantly alter zebrafish swimming behaviors. Furthermore, we also optimized the experimental conditions of zebrafish skin wound healing using a laser engraving machine, which can create skin wounds with a high reproducibility in size and depth. The wound closure of the tested zebrafish was then analyzed by using a two-way ANOVA, and presented in 25%, 50%, and 75% of wound-closure percentages. After imparting wounds to the skin of the zebrafish, wound images were collected and used for deep-learning training by convolutional neural networks (CNNs), either the Mask-RCNN or U-Net, so that the computer could calculate the area of the skin wounds in an automatic manner. Using ImageJ manual counting as a gold standard, we found that the U-Net performance was better than the Mask RCNN for zebrafish skin wound judgment. For proof-of-concept validation, a U-Net trained model was applied to study and determine the effect of different temperatures and the administration of antioxidants on the skin wound-healing kinetics. Results showed a significant positive correlation between the speed of wound closure and the exposure to different temperatures and administration of antioxidants. Taken together, the laser-based skin ablation and deep learning-based wound-size measurement methods reported in this study provide a faster, reliable, and reduced suffering protocol to conduct skin wound healing in zebrafish for the first time.

Use of Ozone Therapy and Thymoquinone in the Prevention of Formaldehyde Toxicity by Inhalation: An Experimental Study.

The study determined the damage caused by formaldehyde (FA) exposure in blood and liver samples using biochemical markers. Histopathological analysis was performed using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) method and measurement of CD68 cell density. To what extent the antioxidant molecules thymoquinone (TQ) and ozone (O3) reversed the damage caused by FA exposure was investigated, both when used alone and combined. Fifty-six Sprague-Dawley male rats of eight to ten weeks of age were used in the experiment. The rats were divided into eight groups, with seven rats in each group: the untreated control group, the group treated with TQ (10 mg/kg/day), the group treated with O3 (150 μg/kg/day), the group treated with TQ+O3, the group exposed to FA (10 ppm 8 h/day), the group receiving FA+TQ, the group receiving FA+O3, and the group receiving FA+TQ+O3.Serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total antioxidant (TAS, U/mL), and total oxidant (TOS, nmol/mL) levels were analyzed. TAS and TOS levels, CD68 cell density, and apoptotic cells were determined in liver tissues. FA exposure caused an increase in serum AST and ALT levels of (p<0.05) experimental animals, a decrease in TAS levels in serum (p=0.03) and liver (p>0.05) and an increase in TOS levels (p>0.05), TUNEL positivity (p<0.001), and CD68 cell density (p=0.004). Administration of TQ and O3as antioxidants significantlyreversed biochemical and histopathological alterations in the serum and liver. TQ and ozone therapy suppressed oxidative stress caused by FA exposure and reversed the emerging histopathological deteriorations. Ozone therapy did not suppress the effects of TQ. Therefore, ozone therapy can be given as a supportive therapy along with the main therapeutic agents. We think TQ and ozone therapy may be useful to protect individuals exposed to FA.

Parvalbumin Interneuron Disorders Triggered by Oxidative Stress as a Common Mechanism Causing Schizophrenia in the Elderly: a Literature Review Study

Schizophrenia is a functional psychotic disorder with the main disturbance of the thought process and the disintegration of the thought process, affect or emotion, volition and psychomotor accompanied by a distortion of reality, especially due to delusions and hallucinations, fragmented associations resulting in incoherence, inadequate affect and emotion, and psychomotor which shows withdrawal, ambivalence and bizzare behavior. The research design used is the literature review method. Literature study is research carried out by researchers by collecting a number of articles or journals related to research problems and objectives. The study results show that various literature shows evidence that schizophrenia in the elderly occurs due to changes in antioxidant enzymes in schizophrenia. Increased levels of lipid peroxidation products and nitric oxide (NO) occurred in schizophrenia, while superoxide dismutase activity was found to decrease significantly in this disorder, but glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity had no effect in schizophrenia patients. In schizophrenic patients, it was found that there was an increase in the production of free radicals, therefore the administration of anti-oxidants is necessary to increase antioxidants which can reduce symptoms in schizophrenic patients.

In vivo and in vitro effects of crocetin and its amide derivative on acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity.

Acrylamide (ACR) is a neurotoxic agent whose damage could be attenuated by antioxidants administration. Crocetin is a saffron-derived antioxidant that has neuroprotective effects. This study evaluates the protective effects of trans-sodium crocetinate (TSC) and its water-soluble derivative, Bis-N-(N-methylpyprazinyl) crocetinate (BMPC) against ACR neurotoxicity. PC12 cells were treated with TSC and BMPC (1.95, 3.9, 7.81, 15.62, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 μM) for 24 hr. ACR was then added at a concentration of 6.5 mM (IC50), and cell viability was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide. In the in vivo study, male Wistar rats were treated with ACR (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.)) for 11 days alone or in combination with TSC and BMPC (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg, i.p.) or vitamin E (200 IU/kg, i.p.). Motor impairments were then evaluated. The cerebral cortex of sacrificed rats was taken for the malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels measurement. In vitro studies showed that TSC at a concentration of 7.81 μM and BMPC at concentrations of 3.9, 7.81, and 15.62 μM exhibited the lowest toxicity in acrylamide administration. In the in vivo study, pretreatment with 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg of TSC ameliorated behavioral impairments, but BMPC could not attenuate them. GSH and MDA were improved by 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg TSC and 2.5 mg/kg BMPC. TSC and BMPC administration improved behavioral index and oxidative stress injuries in Wistar rats exposed to ACR through MDA reduction and GSH content enhancement in the cerebral cortex.

Autoxidation interference assay to evaluate the protection against lipid oxidation of antioxidant administration: Comparison of the efficiency of progressive release or total administration

Lipid oxidation is a cause of food spoilage, and antioxidants are used to retard it, but the timing of administration is important for this effect. The research aims to evaluate the protective efficiency against oxidative deterioration through the prolonged or complete addition of antioxidants without retention in the matrix. For this purpose, three modes of administration of the synthetic antioxidant BHT and oregano essential oil were evaluated: 100, 50, and 25 in which 100 % was incorporated at the beginning, 50 % in two aliquots, and 25 % in 4 aliquots. After adding the aliquots, all treatments reached 0.02 w/w of antioxidant in oil. An accelerated oxidation study was performed at 60 °C for 12 days, and chemical indicators (Peroxide and Conjugated Dienes value) along with volatiles (2-Heptenal and 2,4-Decadienal EE) were assessed. The order of protection shows that the initial addition of antioxidants yielded the highest efficiency.

Role of traditional Chinese medicine in age-related macular degeneration: exploring the gut microbiota’s influence

The pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative retinopathy, remains unclear. Administration of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents, antioxidants, fundus lasers, photodynamic therapy, and transpupillary warming has proven effective in alleviating symptoms; however, these interventions cannot prevent or reverse AMD. Increasing evidence suggests that AMD risk is linked to changes in the composition, abundance, and diversity of the gut microbiota (GM). Activation of multiple signaling pathways by GM metabolites, including lipopolysaccharides, oxysterols, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bile acids (BAs), influences retinal physiology. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), known for its multi-component and multi-target advantages, can help treat AMD by altering GM composition and regulating the levels of certain substances, such as lipopolysaccharides, reducing oxysterols, and increasing SCFA and BA contents. This review explores the correlation between GM and AMD and interventions for the two to provide new perspectives on treating AMD with TCM.

Biologically Active Natural Compounds in SARS-Cov-2 Adherence Prevention

Taking into account the information on the mechanism of of SARS-CoV-2 development, during treatment, it is advisable to pay attention to inhibition of viral replication; reduction hypoxia; elimination drug poisoning and toxic, allergic consequences; add antioxidant therapy to prevent formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at recovery phase and hook up anti-inflammatory therapy. This goal could be achieved through the administration of antioxidants with anti-viral properties. For example, using superoxide dismutase mimics metalloporphyrins, metallocorroles, Mn biliverdins, Mn cyclic polyamines, Mn salens, metal oxides/salts and inducers of antioxidant protection. It is also possible to increase the antioxidant enzymes genes expression or the activity of the enzyme itself. Patients taking antibiotics for SARS-CoV-2 were more susceptible to exacerbations due to opportunistic infections, so alternatives to antibiotics with high efficacy and well-absorbed antioxidant properties are more appropriate. In this regard, vitamin C, N-acetylcysteine, and glycine, as well as melatonin, quercetin, astaxanthin, glutathione, fat-soluble vitamins, polyphenols, unsaturated fatty acids, and a number of other substances with high anti-inflammatory effects exhibit positive effect.

Mitochondrial oxidative stress in immunopathogenesis of diseases.

Mitochondria are subcellular organelles involved in many metabolic events, including oxidative phosphorylation and signaling in tissue-specific processes. They play akey role in cell proliferation, differentiation and death.Diseases in the pathogenesis of which mitochondrial oxidative stress and immunity play asignificant role include cancer, cardiovascular, nervous and rheumatic diseases as well as liver, lung and kidney diseases. In addition, mitochondria participate in the pathogenesis of infections and autoimmunity.Mitochondrial dysfunction can be positively influenced by administration of antioxidants, including coenzyme Q10 (Tab. 1, Fig. 5, Ref. 20). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: mitochondria, immunopathogenesis, bronchial asthma, chronic hepatitis C, reactive oxidative species, antioxidants, coenzyme Q10.

The role of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the Nandrolone-Decanoate-induced liver fibrosis

To determine the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its relationship with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) during the process of developing liver fibrosis induced by Nandrolone Decanoate, 36 adult male Wistar rats are divided into 3 groups. Except for the control group, the other 2 experimental groups are injected with nandrolone decanoate (3.5 mg/kg/5 times/IM/week) for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks of injection, one experimental group (A) is decapitated. Samples from livers and plasma are obtained to conduct histopathological section, TNF-alpha ELISA, and EPR for ROS level. Then along with the same dosage of nandrolone decanoate, raxofelast (15mg/kg/day) is administrated orally to the experimental group (B) for another 4 weeks. The result of the histopathology section, ELISA, and EPR tests of group A and group B were compared. The degree of liver fibrosis, reactive oxygen species amount, and TNF-alpha level before and after the administration of antioxidants indicate the role of ROS in the development of TNF-alpha-mediated liver fibrosis. Another purpose of this experiment is to discuss the potential of antioxidants in the treatment of steroid-induced liver fibrosis.

Effects of antioxidant treatment on cell differentiation in rabbit embryos

The antioxidant coenzyme Q10 can influence the expression of genes involved in apoptosis and energy metabolism of oocytes and quercetin can improve oocyte maturation and early embryonic development. In this study, the gene expression of GATA6 and NANOG in rabbit embryos was assessed using the qRT-PCR reaction. The groups were: group A- control group (no treatment added), group B (hormonal treatment of superovulation, which included the administration of PMSG and hCG), group C (administration of quercitin) and group D (administration of Coenzyme Q10). Our results show that the expression of the two genes was different depending on both the stage of embryonic development and the treatment administered. The highest values of gene expression for GATA6 and NANOG were obtained in groups 2, 4, 7, 8 and 9, corresponding to morula and blastocyst stages. In addition to the fact that NANOG and GATA6 are factors that are involved in early embryonic development, we believe that the administration of extrapituitary gonadotropins and antioxidants contributed to the increase in gene expression.

PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF GRAPE SEED EXTRACT (VITIS VINIFERA) AGAINST CISPLATIN-INDUCED LIVER DAMAGE IN RABBITS. (HISTOLOGICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDY)

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug used in the treatment of various cancer types. It can be considered a double-edged sword. It is a potent anticancer agent at the same time has toxic effect on various tissues as it causes hepatotoxicity. It was determined to cause liver toxicity and to weaken the antioxidant defense systems in liver. A decrease in antioxidant enzymes resulted from cisplatin induced tissue toxicity. Moreover, the development of therapies to prevent the appearance of cisplatin- induced tissue toxicities has focused on administration of antioxidants along with cisplatin treatment. The grape seeds exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties against oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of present study was designed to investigate the protective effects of grape seed extract on the liver damage in cisplatin treated rabbits. Twenty seven healthy rabbits of local mixed breed were selected, divided into three equal groups, the first group (CON group) served as control and received a single intraperitoneal injection of normal saline solution once per week for 6 weeks; the second group (CIS group) were treated with therapeutic dose of cisplatin intraperitoneally once per week for six weeks; the third group (CIS+GSE group) served as protective group and was concomitantly treated with grape seeds extract by oral gavages and cisplatin injection intraperitoneally once per week for six successive weeks. Administration of grape seeds extract by oral gavages starting from the first day of the experiment for 6 consecutive days before and 6 consecutive days after the cisplatin injection and continued daily for 6 weeks. The histopathological findings present in current study showed that cisplatin toxicity produced significant structural changes in the liver of CIS group, cisplatin treated group, in the form of prominent disorganized architecture and loss of liver lobulation, distortion of the arrangement of parenchyma of the liver, loss of radial arrangement of sinusoids from the central vein of the liver, Dilatation and congestion of central veins, sinusoids and portal traids, degenerative changes in hepatocytes and pyknotic nuclei indicating necrosis. Marked vacuolar degeneration mainly hydropic ballooning degeneration and hyper activation of Kupffer cells and inflammatory cellular infiltrations were also observed. This finding reflected the cytotoxic effects of cisplatin in hepatic tissue. While, in the sections from the liver of animals received therapeutic dose of cisplatin and treated by grape seed extract, group (CIS+GSE) clearly showed that there was a significant alleviated hepatotoxicity, since histopathological changes were markedly less pronounced compared to animals treated with cisplatin alone. Therefore, and based on our findings, the grape seed extract contributes significantly to the improvement of histological alterations in rabbit liver caused by cisplatin.

Targeted Therapy of Acute Liver Injury via Cryptotanshinone-Loaded Biomimetic Nanoparticles Derived from Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Driven by Homing.

Acute liver injury (ALI) has the potential to compromise hepatic function rapidly, with severe cases posing a considerable threat to human health and wellbeing. Conventional treatments, such as the oral administration of antioxidants, can inadvertently lead to liver toxicity and other unwanted side effects. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can target therapeutic agents directly to inflammatory sites owing to their homing effect, and they offer a promising avenue for the treatment of ALI. However, the efficacy and feasibility of these live cell products are hampered by challenges associated with delivery pathways and safety concerns. Therefore, in this work, MSC membranes were ingeniously harnessed as protective shells to encapsulate synthesized PLGA nanoparticle cores (PLGA/MSCs). This strategic approach enabled nanoparticles to simulate endogenous substances and yielded a core-shell nano-biomimetic structure. The biomimetic nanocarrier remarkably maintained the homing ability of MSCs to inflammatory sites. In this study, cryptotanshinone (CPT)-loaded PLGA/MSCs (CPT@PLGA/MSC) were prepared. These nanoparticles can be effectively internalized by LO2 cells. They reduced cellular oxidative stress and elevated inflammatory levels. In vivo results suggested that, after intravenous administration, CPT@PLGA/MSCs significantly reduced uptake by the reticuloendothelial system and immune recognition compared to PLGA nanoparticles without MSC membrane coatings, subsequently resulting in their targeted and enhanced accumulation in the liver. The effectiveness of CPT@PLGA/MSCs in alleviating carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in a mouse model was unequivocally demonstrated through comprehensive histological examination and liver function tests. This study introduces a pioneering strategy with substantial potential for ALI treatment.

In vitro diffusion of plant phenolics through the skin: Areview update.

Excessive skin exposure to deleterious environmental variables results in inflammation as well as molecular and cellular impairments that compromise its functionality, aesthetic qualities, and overall well-being. The implementation of topical administration of antioxidants and other compounds as a method for preventing or reversing damage is a rational approach. Numerous phenolic compounds derived from plants have demonstrated capabilities such as scavenging free radicals and promoting tissue healing. However, the primary obstacle lies in effectively delivering these compounds to the specific place on the skin, and accurately forecasting their diffusion through the skin can assist in determining the most effective tactics. Hence, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of recent literature pertaining to the invitro skin diffusion characteristics of plant phenolics. The aim is to gain a deeper understanding of their behaviour when present in various forms such as solutions, suspensions, and formulations. The data on plant extracts and isolated plant phenolic compounds invitro skin diffusion assays published over the last six years were compiled and discussed. Even though the gold standard Franz diffusion cell is the most commonly used in the assessment of invitro plant phenolic skin diffusion profiles, a plethora of skin models and assay conditions are reported for a variety of compounds and extracts in different vehicles. The presence of numerous models and vehicles poses a challenge in creating correlations among the existing data on plant phenolic compounds. However, it is possible to draw some general conclusions regarding molecular, vehicle, and skin characteristics based on the gathered information.

Clinical presentation, medical management, and outcomes in 35 hospitalized sheep diagnosed with bluetongue virus disease.

There is only limited information on the clinical presentation, medical management, and outcomes of hospitalized sheep diagnosed with bluetongue virus (BTV) disease. To describe the signalment, history, clinical signs, clinicopathological findings, medical management, and clinical outcomes of sheep diagnosed with BTV disease. Thirty-five hospitalized sheep with BTV disease. Retrospective case series. Medical records from 1989 to 2021 were evaluated. History, signalment, clinical signs, laboratory test results, treatments, and outcomes were recorded. BTV disease was diagnosed from July to December, with a peak proportion (43%; 15/35) of diagnoses recorded in October. Pyrexia and anorexia, respiratory disease, vasculitis, coronitis and lameness, and ulcerative mucosal lesions were present in 71%, 71%, 66%, 49%, and 22% of sheep, respectively. BTV serotypes 10, 11, 13, and 17 were identified, with serotype 17 (75%) being the most frequent. Management of cases included administration of antimicrobials (89%), anti-inflammatories (77%), IV fluids (60%), vitamins (20%), proton-pump inhibitors (14%), diuretics (9%), and antioxidants (9%). Six ewes were pregnant on presentation, but none aborted. Six (17%) sheep died or were euthanized because of clinical deterioration, whereas 83% were discharged. The proportion of sheep that survived BTV disease after treatment was relatively high. Serotyping of BTV is recommended because of the mismatch between frequently identified serotypes and the serotype present in the vaccine.

Possible prospects for the combined administration of antidepressants and antioxidants in neurological patients

Antidepressants (ADs) are a group of drugs whose action primarily consists of stimulating neurotransmitter systems (dopaminergic, serotonergic and noradrenergic systems). Neurologists prescribe them for the treatment of post-stroke and other depression, chronic pain syndromes, neuropathic pain, panic attacks, correction of post-Covid syndrome, for the prevention of migraines, Parkinson’s disease and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. However, even with appropriate therapy, many people with depressive disorder may experience subsyndromal symptoms and complete remission is short-lived, so there is a need to use other therapeutic approaches. Combining two or more antidepressants may target different neurochemical pathways while increasing the risk of side effects and the development of resistance. Therefore, the search for alternative treatments is urgent, and oxidative stress appears to be an interesting therapeutic target. The combined use of AD and antioxidants may provide an effective and safe approach to enhancing antidepressant effects by synergistically enhancing certain antidepressant activities (eg, enhancing monoamine reuptake inhibition) or by additive pharmacological effects, such as adjusting neurotransmitters and reducing the damaging effects of active agents. forms of oxygen. There are a number of clinical studies to prove the effectiveness of the combined use of antioxidants and antioxidants. In the group of patients receiving a combination of antioxidants and antidepressants/anti-anxiety drugs, there was a better regression of symptoms and severity of depression, which probably indicates the usefulness of adjuvant antioxidant therapy with regular psychotropic treatment. The use of combination drugs in complex therapy with blood pressure seems to be a promising direction and requires further study.

NRF2 is essential for adaptative browning of white adipocytes

White adipose tissue browning, defined by accelerated mitochondrial metabolism and biogenesis, is considered a promising mean to treat or prevent obesity-associated metabolic disturbances. We hypothesize that redox stress acutely leads to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which activate electrophile sensor nuclear factor erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2) that over time results in an adaptive adipose tissue browning process. To test this, we have exploited adipocyte-specific NRF2 knockout mice and cultured adipocytes and analyzed time- and dose-dependent effect of NAC and lactate treatment on antioxidant expression and browning-like processes.We found that short-term antioxidant treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) induced reductive stress as evident from increased intracellular NADH levels, increased ROS-production, reduced oxygen consumption rate (OCR), and increased NRF2 levels in white adipocytes. In contrast, and in line with our hypothesis, longer-term NAC treatment led to a NRF2-dependent browning response. Lactate treatment elicited similar effects as NAC, and mechanistically, these NRF2-dependent adipocyte browning responses in vitro were mediated by increased heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) activity. Moreover, this NRF2-HMOX1 axis was also important for β3-adrenergic receptor activation-induced adipose tissue browning in vivo.In conclusion, our findings show that administration of exogenous antioxidants can affect biological function not solely through ROS neutralization, but also through reductive stress. We also demonstrate that NRF2 is essential for white adipose tissue browning processes.

Protein Carbonylation as a Biomarker of Oxidative Stress and a Therapeutic Target in Neonatal Brain Damage.

Oxidative stress (OS) constitutes a pivotal factor within the mechanisms underlying brain damage, for which the immature brain is particularly vulnerable. This vulnerability is caused by the abundance of immature oligodendrocytes in the immature brain, which are highly susceptible to OS-induced harm. Consequently, any injurious process involving OS within the immature brain can lead to long-term myelination impairment. Among the detrimental repercussions of OS, protein carbonylation stands out as a prominently deleterious consequence. Noteworthy elevation of protein carbonylation is observable across diverse models of neonatal brain injury, following both diffuse and focal hypoxic-ischemic insults, as well as intraventricular hemorrhage, in diverse animal species encompassing rodents and larger mammals, and at varying stages of brain development. In the immature brain, protein carbonylation manifests as a byproduct of reactive nitrogen species, bearing profound implications for cell injury, particularly in terms of inflammation amplification. Moreover, protein carbonylation appears as a therapeutic target for mitigating neonatal brain damage. The administration of a potent antioxidant, such as cannabidiol, yields substantial neuroprotective effects. These encompass the reduction in cerebral damage, restoration of neurobehavioral performance, and preservation of physiological myelination. Such effects are linked to the modulation of protein carbonylation. The assessment of protein carbonylation emerges as a reliable method for comprehending the intricate mechanisms underpinning damage and neuroprotection within neonatal brain injury.

An Ayurvedic approach in the management of vitreous floaters: A case report

Abstract: Vitreous floater is a commonly found eye condition in patients who complain of visualizing non-existing figures such as hair lines, black spots, and webs. Vitreous floaters are a sign of degeneration of vitreous gel, which if left untreated may cause severe irritation in the visual field of the patient. In modern science, floaters are treated with oral administration of antioxidants and pars plana vitrectomy surgeries. Conventional treatment options are not affordable to all patients and they may cause postoperative complications. These complications include moderate-to-severe pathophysiologies such as posterior vitreous detachment, traction retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, macular edema, and full-thickness macular holes. A 56-year-old female patient who suffered from vitreous floaters was presented to Shalakya tantra outpatient department whose condition was managed by Ayurveda treatment approaches. The Triphala-yashti yoga was selected as a plan of treatment. The principle of treatment used in this study involves Ayurvedic medicines having an activity such as Chakshushya (~beneficial for eyes) to mitigate intravitreal oxidative stress, which has been linked to vitreous degeneration and associated symptoms. Changes in the symptoms were noted and the Short Floater Questionnaire score was reduced to 3.75/13 from 07/13 after three months of treatment. The utilization of a classical literature-based approach, combined with a methodology of identifying commonly mentioned botanicals within diverse mixtures, demonstrated favorable outcomes in the current study.

Overall Role of Contactins Expression in Neurodevelopmental Events and Contribution to Neurological Disorders.

Neurodegenerative disorders may depend upon a misregulation of the pathways which sustain neurodevelopmental control. In this context, this review article focuses on Friedreich ataxia (FA), a neurodegenerative disorder resulting from mutations within the gene encoding the Frataxin protein, which is involved in the control of mitochondrial function and oxidative metabolism. The specific aim of the present study concerns the FA molecular and cellular substrates, for which available transgenic mice models are proposed, including mutants undergoing misexpression of adhesive/morphoregulatory proteins, in particular belonging to the Contactin subset of the immunoglobulin supergene family. In both mutant and control mice, neurogenesis was explored by morphological/morphometric analysis through the expression of cell type-specific markers, including -tubulin, the Contactin-1 axonal adhesive glycoprotein, as well as the Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP). Specific consequences were found to arise from the chosen misexpression approach, consisting of a neuronal developmental delay associated with glial upregulation. Protective effects against the arising phenotype resulted from antioxidants (essentially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) administration, which was demonstrated through the profiles of neuronal (-tubulin and Contactin 1) as well as glial (GFAP) markers, in turn indicating the concomitant activation of neurodegeneration and neuro repair processes. The latter also implied activation of the Notch-1 signaling. Overall, this study supports the significance of changes in morphoregulatory proteins expression in the FA pathogenesis and of antioxidant administration in counteracting it, which, in turn, allows to devise potential therapeutic approaches.

Time to Take a Closer Look at the Controversial Effects of Antioxidants: Important Points to Be Remembered

The beneficial effects of antioxidants have been investigated and reported for decades. These include (but are not limited to) the positive effects on the endocrine, reproductive, and central nervous systems. Free radicals, which have been known to be formed during many processes, including drug metabolism, and introduced as the main player in oxidative stress conditions, would be scavenged and neutralized by antioxidant agents. Whether endogenous or exogenous, they have been known to stand against many pathologies such as neurodegeneration, nephrotoxicity, inflammation, cancer, and aging, as well as pain and related challenges, namely, tolerance and dependence on analgesics. Despite the numerous reports of the benefits, the volume of studies focusing on the potential harms seems to be insufficient. It is important to note that some of the negative effects can be serious and challenging. In fact, the words "negative" or "positive" would be defined under a particular condition. Most likely, the most well-known example would be the challenges of antioxidant consumption in carcinogenesis, although many other conditions would be the focus. In this regard, the overuse of many antioxidant nutraceuticals, such as vitamin E, β-carotene, and lipoic acid, has been reported to be associated with serious complications. In this review, in addition to the bright side, we are going to scrutinize the controversies surrounding antioxidant administration.