Plasma Biochemical Parameters Research Articles

Correlation between plasma biochemical parameters and cardio-hepatic iron deposition in thalassemia major patients

Introduction Major Thalassemia patients suffer from iron overload and organ damage, especially heart and liver damage. Early diagnosis and treatment with a chelator can reduce the complications and mortality of iron overload. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the biochemical and hematological predictors as an alternative and indirect indicator of iron deposition in heart and liver cells in comparison with the MRI T2* method as the gold standard. Material and method MRI T2* was evaluated in the heart and liver tissues of 62 major beta-thalassemia patients undergoing regular transfusion and chelator therapy. Biochemical and hematological factors were also measured, including serum ferritin, serum electrolytes, liver enzymes, hemoglobin, blood glucose, and serum magnesium. The correlation between these factors was assessed using statistical evaluations. Result Serum ferritin had a positive and significant correlation with liver siderosis based on MRI T2* (p-value = .015), and no significant association was observed with cardiac siderosis (p-value = .79). However, there was a significant positive correlation between cardiac iron deposition and fasting blood sugar level (p-value = −.049), and plasma level of liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p-value = .001), aspartate aminotransferase (AST ((p-value = .01)). Moreover, there was a significant negative correlation between cardiac iron overload and plasma magnesium level (p-value = .014). According to MRI T2*, there was no significant correlation between cardiac and hepatic iron overload (p value = .36). Conclusion An increase in blood sugar or liver enzymes and a decrease in serum magnesium was associated with an increase in cardiac iron overload based on MRI T2*. Liver iron overload based on MRI T2* had a significant correlation with serum ferritin.

Effects of biochanin A on lactational performance, nitrogen metabolism, and blood metabolites in dairy cows

Optimizing nitrogen utilization efficiency and mitigating nitrogen losses in cows plays a pivotal role in fostering economic sustainability within contemporary agricultural systems. Biochanin A (BCA), a natural component in red clover, has the potential to improve nitrogen metabolism in dairy cows. The primary objective of this study was to probe the impact of biochanin A supplementation on lactational performance, nitrogen metabolism, and blood metabolites in dairy cows. A complete randomized block design experiment was conducted over 28 d, involving 36 multiparous Holstein cows (comparable milk yield = 37.1 ± 2.90 kg, BW = 642 ± 70.0 kg, days in milk = 92 ± 8.0 d, and parity = 2.4 ± 0.50), which were allocated to three treatment groups: the control group (with 0 g/d BCA), the low group (with 10 g/d BCA), and the high group (with 40 g/d BCA). Biochanin A supplementation improved the lactational performance of cows by increasing milk yield by 6.3% (P = 0.007) and feed efficiency by 12.7% (P = 0.009). Total intestinal apparent digestibility was unaffected by BCA supplementation (P > 0.05), but microbial nitrogen was increased by 30.0% (P = 0.002) for promoting nitrogen utilization efficiency by 20.7% (P = 0.004). Milk competent yields (protein, lactose, and non-fat milk solid) were increased with increasing BCA supplementation (P < 0.05). Urea nitrogen levels in plasma and milk were both decreased by BCA supplementation (P < 0.05). Blood routine parameters and plasma biochemical parameters both received no effect by BCA supplementation (P > 0.05). BCA did not affect body health of dairy cows. Additionally, none of the plasma endocrine hormones were affected (P > 0.05). A total of 95 significantly different metabolites were screened from the plasma metabolites of cows in the BCA-added and non-added groups. After performing an enrichment analysis of the metabolic pathways associated with the different metabolites, six specific pathways were identified: bile acid biosynthesis, aspartate metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, the urea cycle, and ammonia recycling. The inclusion of BCA is suggested to enhance milk yield and modulate nitrogen metabolism by influencing relevant metabolites within the metabolic pathways.

Hematological and plasma biochemical profile of two species of freshwater stingrays from the Amazon.

The evaluation of hematological and plasma biochemical parameters and the subsequent establishment of reference intervals facilitate the diagnosis of the health status of animals. This work aimed to determine the blood parameters of wild specimens of the stingrays Potamotrygon motoro and Potamotrygon orbignyi from the lower Solimões River region, Amazonas, Brazil. One hundred forty-one stingrays were captured, 92 specimens of P. motoro and 49 of P. orbignyi, of both sexes and at different stages of development. No effect of sex was observed on the blood parameters of juvenile animals for both species. P. motoro neonates presented a distinct hematological and biochemical profile, with significantly lower hematocrit values, hemoglobina, number of erythrocytes, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, monocytes, plasma glucose, total proteins, albumin, and globulin. On the other hand, total cholesterol and urea levels were significantly higher in this same group compared to juveniles of the same species. Comparison between species revealed lower values of triglycerides and total cholesterol in P. orbignyi of both sexes. The results obtained are pioneering for these Amazonian species in white water environments and will serve as a basis for evaluating the health status of wild stingrays. Thus, from the analysis of the blood of the P. motoro and P. orbignyi stingrays, it was possible to observe good health conditions.

Protective Activity of Palm Oil Extracts against Dichlorvos Poisoning in Rats: Biochemical Parameters and Mechanisms of Action

Protective activity on biochemical parameters and possible mechanisms of action of palm oil extracts were investigated in orally Dichlorvos poisoned rats and the efficacy of treatments in the poisoned rats. The safety profile of the extracts was evaluated via acute toxicity studies which was done in two phases. To screen for phytochemicals, present in this extract. This study was carried out in Pharmacy and KIUTH laboratories, Kampala International University, Uganda. Wistar rats of both sexes, weighing 85g and above were used for the study. Selection of rats was done by simple random sampling. At the end of the administration, plasma biochemical parameters were measured as indices of organ toxicity. The red palm oil used in treatment of Dichlorvos poisoned rats caused a reduction in concentration of some of the biochemical parameters of the rats when given simultaneously compared to the kernel oil combinations. Administration of palm oil does not have prophylactic effect against the poison. However, it does seem to have similar protective effects against oxidative stress with ascorbic acid. In summary the administration of palm oil seemed to have limited ameliorative role against Dichlorvos poisoning in rats. Keywords: Dichlorvos, palm oil, palm kernel oil, rats, acute toxicity, oxidative stress.

The Levels of Cortisol and Selected Biochemical Parameters in Red Deer Harvested during Stalking Hunts.

As a reactive species, the red deer is sensitive to both negative exogenous and endogenous stimuli. An intensive hunting period may have a particularly negative impact on game animals. The aim of this study was to determine the plasma cortisol level and biochemical parameters in 25 wild red deer (Cervus elaphus) harvested during stalking hunts in correlation with the sex and age of the animals. The mean cortisol concentrations in the stags and hinds analyzed in this study were similar (20.2 and 21.5 ng/mL, respectively). Higher HDL cholesterol values were found in the blood of the hinds than in stags (p < 0.05). Similarly, the mean levels of LDL cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase, and alanine aminotransferase were higher by 21%, 16%, and 42%, respectively, in the blood of the hinds. In contrast, the levels of alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and aspartate aminotransferase were higher in the stags (by 30%, 49%, and 36%, respectively). There was a negative correlation of the cortisol concentration with urea and bilirubin and a positive correlation between cortisol and aspartate aminotransferase in the stags (p < 0.05). In turn, a negative correlation was found between the cortisol and urea levels in the hinds (p < 0.05). In summary, the stress caused by stalking hunts and the characteristic behavior of red deer during the mating season had an impact on chosen biochemical parameters. The increased concentration of cortisol resulted in a decrease in the carcass mass, which may lead to the deterioration of the physical condition of animals on hunting grounds.

Haematological and Plasma Biochemical Parameters in Response to Natural Coccidian Infection in Barbari and Jamunapari Goat Breeds in Semi-arid Tropics

Background: Small ruminants like goats are considered the most resourceful and efficient animal all over the world. Eimeria species causes disease in goats associated with poor growth, diarrhoea and decrease in production, high morbidity and mortalities. The present study was conducted to analyse the haematological and biochemical parameters in response to natural coccidian infection in Barbari and Jamunapari goat breeds in semi-arid tropics. Methods: A total of 474 goats were examined; 96 goats were selected (48 Barbari and 48 Jamunapari) and divided on the basis of high (12 males and 12 females) and low (12 males and 12 females) oocyst per gram (OPG) counts of both Barbari and Jamunapari goats. The blood was aseptically collected from the jugular vein, using a 22-gauge needle for each animal separately in 5 ml blood for the haematological and biochemical estimations. Result: In haematological parameters of Barbari goats there were no significant (P greater than 0.05) differences in males and females. Although significantly higher values of RBC were observed in low OPG females, similar results were also observed in Hct, Mcv, Hb, MCH and MCHC. Whereas, in WBC, Lymphocyte, Monocyte and Granulocyte statistically had no significant (P greater than 0.05) differences among all the groups. In haematological parameters of Jamunapari goats no significant (P greater than 0.05) differences was seen in males and females of both the groups. The same group of Barbari goats were also selected for biochemical parameters and high OPG females had significantly (P less than 0.05) higher blood glucose values. The blood potassium concentration was found to be significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in low OPG males compared to high OPG males. The same group of Jamunapari goats were selected for biochemical parameters and ALT, total protein and globulin had significantly (P less than 0.05) higher values in high OPG females than others. A/G ratio had significantly (P less than 0.05) higher value observed in high OPG males.

Salvia officinalis Improves Glycemia and Suppresses Pro-inflammatory Features in Obese Rats with Metabolic Syndrome.

Obesity is regarded as the main cause of metabolic diseases and a core factor for all-cause mortality in the general population, notably from cardiovascular disease. The majority of people with type 2 diabetes have obesity and insulin resistance. Some evidence indicates that an individual with obesity is approximately 10 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than someone with moderate body weight. One of the most significant therapeutic herbs, Salvia officinalis (Lamiaceae) (SAGE), possesses potent medicinal importance. The aim of this article was to evaluate the anti-diabetic and antiobesity activity of SAGEAE against HFD-induced obesity in rats. Thirty adult albino rats were randomly divided into five equal groups: control, High-fat Diet (HFD) administrated rats, HFD + Salvia officinalis Aqueous Extract (SAGEAE) (150 mg/kg.bw.), HFD + SAGEAE (300 mg/kg.bw.) and HFD + metformin (500 mg/kg.bw.). Body weight, plasma biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, inflammatory indicators, hepatic Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase 1 (PCK1), Glucokinase (GK), brain Leptin Receptor (LepRb), Glucose Transporter-4 (GLUT4), Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and mRNA33-5P gene signalling mRNA levels were all assessed after 8 weeks. A histological examination of the liver was also performed to check for lipid accumulation. The administration of HFD resulted in increased body weight, glucose, insulin, leptin, Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), Thiobarbaturic Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS), Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP1), Interleukine-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF- α) as well as hepatic PCK1, brain LepRb and adipose tissue mRNA33-5P gene expression. However, our findings revealed a significant reduction in adiponectin, High-density Lipoproteincholesterol (HDL-C), reduced glutathione (GSH) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) levels as well as the expression of hepatic GK and adipose tissue SIRT1 and GLUT4 genes. Also, administration of SAGEAE significantly normalized body weight, glucose, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, TC, TG, HDL-C, TBARs, SOD, IL-6, MCP-1 and TNF-α in plasma and liver tissue of HFD-treated rats. On the other hand, PCK1, GK, LepRb, SIRT1, GLUT4 and mRNA33-5P gene expression was enhanced in obese rats when administrated with SAGEAE. Histological and US studies support the biochemical, PCR and electrophoretic results. The findings imply that SAGEAE could be used as a new pharmaceutical formula in the treatment of obesity.

Impact of dietary supplementation with β-alanine on the rumen microbial crude protein supply, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen retention in beef steers elucidated through sequencing the rumen bacterial community

This study investigated the effects of β-alanine (β-Ala) on rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen (N) metabolism, plasma biochemical parameters, and rumen bacterial communities in beef steers. Six steers with initial liveweight of 252.8 ± 5.2 kg and 3 treatments of supplementing with 0, 30, or 60 g β-Ala per day to basal diet were allocated in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. Each experimental period was 20 d, of which the first 15 d were for adaptation and the subsequent 5 d were for sampling. The results showed that β-Ala linearly increased the ruminal concentration of microbial crude protein (MCP) (P = 0.005), but it did not affect the ruminal concentrations of ammonia N and total volatile fatty acids (P > 0.10). β-Ala also linearly increased the dry matter (DM) (P = 0.009), organic matter (OM) (P = 0.017) and crude protein (CP) (P = 0.043) digestibility, tended to decrease the acid detergent fiber digestibility (P = 0.077), but it did not affect the neutral detergent fiber digestibility (P = 0.641). β-Ala quadratically increased the relative abundance of ruminal Bacteroidota (P = 0.021) at the phylum level, and increased Prevotella (P = 0.028) and Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 (P = 0.014), and decreased the relative abundance of NK4A214_group (P = 0.009) at the genus level. Feeding steers with β-Ala linearly increased the urinary N (P = 0.006), urea excretions (P = 0.002) and the N retention (P = 0.004), but it did not affect the N utilization efficiency (P = 0.120). β-Ala quadratically increased the plasma concentration of the total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.011) and linearly increased the plasma concentration of insulin-like growth factor-1 (P < 0.001). In summary, dietary supplementation with β-Ala improved the rumen MCP supply and increased the digestibility of DM, OM, CP and the N retention. Further research is necessary to verify the ruminal degradability of β-Ala and to investigate the mechanism of the impact of absorbed β-Ala on the anti-oxidative ability in steers.

High protein-low carbohydrate diet can improve hypoxia tolerance of triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Effects on physiological and metabolic responses to acute hypoxia

Triploid rainbow trout is a hypoxia-sensitive fish species, and is susceptible to death in summer with high water temperature induced acute hypoxia. The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of high protein diet and high carbohydrate diet on hypoxic tolerance of triploid rainbow trout. Two isolipidic and isoenergetic diets with low protein-high carbohydrate level (LPHC) and high protein-low carbohydrate level (HPLC) were specifically formulated. After the feeding trial with 80 days, two group fish were treated with acute hypoxic challenge. Plasma biochemical parameters, hepatic anti-stress, antioxidant and immune related genes expression, and hepatic glucose, lipid, protein and amino acid metabolism related genes expression were then analyzed. The results showed that compared with HPLC diet, LPHC diet could result in excessive plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT; 36.3 VS 14.0 U/L), aspartate aminotransferase (AST; 978 VS 366 U/L), alkaline phosphatase (ALP; 374 VS 204 U/L), creatine phosphokinase (CPK; 7538 VS 4937 U/L) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; 940 VS 451 U/L). In addition, HPLC diet could remodel metabolism of glucose, lipid and protein based on the mRNA expression levels of the genes regulating glycometabolism, lipometabolism, and protein and amino acids metabolism. HPLC diet also enhanced the mRNA expression levels of the genes regulating anti-stress (HSP70, HIF-1a and HIF-2a), antioxidant (Nrf2, SOD, CAT, GPx and HO-1) and immune (IFN-γ, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-8). In total, LPHC diet could aggravate hypoxic stress of triploid rainbow trout, while HPLC diet could improve fish hypoxic tolerance.

Effects of dietary carbohydrate levels on growth performance, feed utilization, liver histology and intestinal microflora of juvenile tiger puffer, Takifugu rubripes

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary carbohydrate levels on growth performance, body composition, and plasma biochemical parameters, liver and gut histology, and intestinal microbiota of Takifugu rubripes. Five isonitrogenous and isolipidic experimental diets were formulated with graded levels of cassava starch: 0% (C0), 8% (C8), 16% (C16), 24% (C24), and 32% (C32). The results showed that weight gain rate, specific growth rate (SGR) and protein efficiency ratio significantly increased in C16 and C24 groups (P < 0.05), while the feed conversion ratio expressed an opposite trend. Feeding rate is decreased with the increasing of carbohydrate levels (P < 0.05). Liver lipid content was dramatically increased in C24 treatment (P < 0.05). The intestinal amylase activity and muscle glycogen content were higher than other groups (P < 0.05). Plasma glucose levels were increased in C24 and C32 groups (P < 0.05). In addition, the abundance of intestinal potentially pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus) decreased, and the intestinal probiotics (Lactobacillus) increased with the increasing of dietary carbohydrate level (P < 0.05). The intestinal bacteria, indicated by Sobs, Chao and Shannon indexes, were more diverse with the increasing of the carbohydrate level (P < 0.05), meanwhile the abundance of transport and metabolism of carbohydrate, lipid and amino acid were enhanced with the increasing of carbohydrate levels (P < 0.05). In conclusion, appropriate supplementation of carbohydrate in diet promoted growth performance and feed utilization of juvenile Takifugu rubripes, and increased the liver lipid and muscle glycogen content, as well as intestinal microbial diversity. Based on the quadratic regression between SGR and carbohydrate levels, the optimal dietary carbohydrate level of juvenile Takifugu rubripes is 21.6%.

Correlation between seminal plasma biochemical markers and semen parameters in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: identification of biomarkers for L-carnitine therapy.

L-carnitine therapy for idiopathic sperm abnormalities exhibits variable effectiveness, and currently, there are no established criteria to predict patient response. This study investigated correlations between seminal plasma markers and semen parameters to identify biomarkers that can guide indications for L-carnitine therapy indications in patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities. A retrospective review was conducted on 223 male patients with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia, who sought medical attention at our clinic between January 2020 and October 2022. These patients underwent a pretreatment seminal plasma biochemical analysis, followed by a three-month continuous L-carnitine treatment. The correlation between seminal plasma biochemical parameters and pretreatment semen parameters was analyzed. Semen quality was compared between cases with normal and abnormal seminal plasma biochemical parameters, both pretreatment and posttreatment. The correlation between the changes in semen parameters after treatment and seminal plasma biochemical parameters were investigated. Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between all pretreatment semen parameters and seminal plasma biochemical markers, except for liquefying time and the ratio of normal morphology. Subgroup analysis, stratified by seminal fructose, zinc, citric acid, and neutral glycosidase levels, demonstrated that abnormal groups exhibited significantly different levels of semen parameters compared with the normal groups. The changing difference and changing ratio in the ratio of forward motile sperm showed a negative correlation with seminal fructose levels (r=-0.165 and -0.144). The changing difference in semen volume was negatively correlated with the level of seminal neutral glycosidase (r=-0.158). The changing ratio in semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and count of forward motile sperm all exhibited negative correlations with the levels of seminal neutral glycosidase (range from -0.178 to -0.224). Seminal plasma biochemical markers, particularly fructose and neutral glycosidase, may serve as valuable indicators for determining the eligibility of patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities for L-carnitine therapy.

Effect of β-alanine on the athletic performance and blood amino acid metabolism of speed-racing Yili horses.

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of supplemental β-alanine feeding on the athletic performance of Yili horses involved in speed racing, focusing on alterations in plasma free amino acid patterns pre and post exercise. Additionally, the research aimed to evaluate the effects of carnosine on the plasma acid-base buffering capacity and antioxidant levels in these horses. Twelve Yili horse stallions, averaging 3 years in age and 346.50 ± 21.39 kg in weight, were chosen and randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a test group, each comprising six horses. The control group received a supplementation of 300 mg/kg BW/day of α-alanine, while the test group received 300 mg/kg BW/day of β-alanine. This supplementation regimen was maintained for a 30-day supplementation trial period, under identical feeding and management conditions. Throughout the trial, the horses participated in the 1,000 Speed Race, and three distinct blood samples were gathered for assessing plasma free amino acids, blood gases, biochemical parameters, and antioxidant parameters. The outcomes indicated a considerable enhancement in the 1,000 m exercise performance of the speed racing Yili horses in the test group compared to the control group, showcasing a noteworthy improvement of 12.01%, with the test group completing the race 13.29 s faster. Notably, the α-alanine content in the plasma of the control group Yili horses remained higher than that of the test group, demonstrating a consistent increasing trend. By contrast, the plasma β-alanine content was notably higher in the test group than in the control group. Over the course of the supplementation period, plasma β-alanine exhibited an escalating and then stabilizing trend in the test group, whereas in the control group, although β-alanine content also increased, the trend was less pronounced. The plasma levels of histidine and carnosine showed minimal variance between the two groups. Overall, the test group of Yili horses exhibited slightly higher plasma levels of histidine and carnosine compared to the control group. The addition of β-alanine to their diet for a duration of 30 days notably affected the plasma levels of amino acids both pre- and post-exercise in speed-racing Yili horses. Furthermore, β-alanine demonstrated an inhibitory effect on the catabolism of these horses' bodies during high-intensity exercise. Ten marker amino acids, including valine, leucine, β-alanine, isoleucine, carnosine, 3-methyl-histidine, lysine, ethanolamine, argnine, and taurine, displayed statistically significant changes. β-alanine notably increased the blood glucose levels of Yili horses and played a role in expediting the restoration of blood gas levels post-exercise. Moreover, in the test group of Yili horses, the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased both before and after the race, while the content of malondialdehyde, an oxidation product, exhibited an extremely significant decrease immediately after the race. These outcomes suggest that the addition of β-alanine significantly augmented antioxidant levels during high-intensity exercise in Yili horses. Consequently, it reduced post-exercise injuries and accelerated the recovery process after exercise.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction Affects Colonic Barrier Function via Regulating the Nrf2/Keap1 and TLR4-NF-κB/ERK Pathways and Altering Colonic Microbiome and Metabolome Homeostasis in Growing-Finishing Pigs.

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) pigs are characterized by long-term growth failure, metabolic disorders, and intestinal microbiota imbalance. The characteristics of the negative effects of IUGR at different growth stages of pigs are still unclear. Therefore, this study explored through multi-omics analyses whether the IUGR damages the intestinal barrier function and alters the colonization and metabolic profiles of the colonic microbiota in growing-finishing pigs. Seventy-two piglets (36 IUGR and 36 NBW) were allocated for this trial to analyze physiological and plasma biochemical parameters, as well as oxidative damage and inflammatory response in the colon. Moreover, the colonic microbiota communities and metabolome were examined using 16s rRNA sequencing and metabolomics technologies to reveal the intestinal characteristics of IUGR pigs at different growth stages (25, 50, and 100 kg). IUGR altered the concentrations of plasma glucose, total protein, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Colonic tight junction proteins were markedly inhibited by IUGR. IUGR decreased plasma T-AOC, SOD, and GSH levels and colonic SOD-1, SOD-2, and GPX-4 expressions by restraining the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, IUGR increased colonic IL-1β and TNF-α levels while reducing IL-10, possibly through activating the TLR4-NF-κB/ERK pathway. Notably, IUGR pigs had lower colonic Streptococcus abundance and Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio at the 25 kg BW stage while having higher Firmicutes abundance at the 100 kg BW stage; moreover, IUGR pigs had lower SCFA concentrations. Metabolomics analysis showed that IUGR increased colonic lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic acids and derivatives, and organoheterocyclic compounds concentrations and enriched three differential metabolic pathways, including linoleic acid, sphingolipid, and purine metabolisms throughout the trial. Collectively, IUGR altered the nutrient metabolism, redox status, and colonic microbiota community and metabolite profiles of pigs and continued to disrupt colonic barrier function by reducing antioxidant capacity via the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and activating inflammation via the TLR4-NF-κB/ERK pathway during the growing-finishing stage. Moreover, colonic Firmicutes and Streptococcus could be potential regulatory targets for modulating the metabolism and health of IUGR pigs.

Mentha rotundifolia (L.) Huds. and Salvia officinalis L. hydrosols mitigate aging related comorbidities in rats.

Aging is often linked to oxidative stress, where the body experiences increased damage from free radicals. Plants are rich sources of antioxidants, playing a role in slowing down aging and supporting the proper functioning and longevity of cells. Our study focuses on exploring the impact of Mentha rotundifolia (MR) and Salvia officinalis (SO) hydrosols on aging-related comorbidities. The chemical composition of MR and SO hydrosols was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. 2,2-Diphenyl 1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,20-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radicals scavenging assays were used to assess their in vitro antioxidant activity, and heat induced albumin denaturation test was used to evaluate their anti-inflammatory activity. Subsequently, we administered 5% of each plant hydrosol in the drinking water of 18-month-old rats for six months. We then conducted behavioral tests, including open field, dark/light box, rotarod, and Y-maze assessments, and measured biochemical parameters in plasma, liver and brain tissues. At two years old, animals treated with MR and SO hydrosols displayed fewer physical and behavioral impairments, along with well-preserved redox homeostasis in comparison with animals in the control group. These results highlighted the significance of MR and SO hydrosols in addressing various aspects of age-related comorbidities. The study suggests that these plant-derived hydrosols may have potential applications in promoting healthy aging and mitigating associated health challenges.

Altered Plasma microRNA Signature in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients Requiring Oxygen Support.

To discover potential micro(mi)RNA biomarkers of SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease progression, large-scale deep-sequencing analysis of small RNA expression was performed on plasma samples from 40 patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 infection (median 13.50 [IQR 9-24] days since symptoms initiation) and 21 healthy noninfected individuals. A total of 1218 different miRNAs were identified. When compared with healthy noninfected donors, SARS-CoV-2-infected patients showed significantly (fold change [FC] > 1.2 and adjusted p [padj] < 0.05) altered expression of 190 miRNAs. The top-10 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were miR-122-5p, let-7b-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-342-3p, miR-146b-5p, miR-629-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-12136, let-7a-5p, and miR-191-5p, which displayed FC and padj values ranging from 153 to 5 and 2.51 × 10-32 to 2.21 × 10-21, respectively, which unequivocally diagnosed SARS-CoV-2 infection. No differences in blood cell counts and biochemical plasma parameters, including interleukin 6, ferritin, and D-dimer, were observed between COVID-19 patients on high-flow oxygen therapy, low-flow oxygen therapy, or not requiring oxygen therapy. Notably, 31 significantly deregulated miRNAs were found, when patients on high- and low-flow oxygen therapy were compared. SARS-CoV-2 infection generates a specific miRNA signature in hospitalized patients. Specific miRNA profiles are associated with COVID-19 prognosis in patients requiring oxygen flow.

Experimental Type 2 diabetes and lipotoxicity-associated neuroinflammation involve mitochondrial DNA-mediated cGAS/STING axis: implication of Type-1 interferon response in cognitive impairment.

Type-1 IFN (interferon)-associated innate immune response is increasingly getting attention in neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, its significance in T2DM/lipotoxicity-induced neuroglia changes and cognitive impairment is missing. The present study aims to evaluate the involvement of cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase)-STING (stimulator of interferon gene), IRF3 (interferon regulatory factor-3), TBK (TANK binding kinase)-mediated Type-1 IFN response in the diabetic brain, and lipotoxicity (palmitate-bovine serum albumin conjugate/PA-BSA)-induced changes in cells (neuro2a and BV2). T2DM was induced in C57/BL6 mice by feeding on a high-fat diet (HFD, 60% Kcal) for 16weeks and injecting a single dose of streptozotocin (100mg/kg, i.p) in the 12th week. Plasma biochemical parameter analysis, neurobehavioral assessment, protein expression, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction study were carried out to decipher the hypothesis. T2DM-associated metabolic and lipotoxic stress led to mitochondrial impairment causing leakage of mtDNA to the cytoplasm further commencing cGAS activation and its downstream signaling. The diseased hippocampus and cortex showed decreased expression of synaptophysin (p < 0.01) and PSD-95 (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) with increased expression of cGAS (p < 0.001), p-STING (p < 0.001), p-STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription) (p < 0.01), and IFN-β (p < 0.001) compared to normal control. The IFN-β/p-STAT1-mediated microglia activation was executed employing a conditioned media approach. C-176, a selective STING inhibitor, alleviated cGAS/p-STING/IFN-β expression and proinflammatory microglia/M1-associated markers (CD16 expression, CXCL10, TNF-α, IL-1β mRNA fold change) in the diabetic brain. The present study suggests Type-1IFN response may result in neuroglia dyshomeostasis affecting normal brain function. Alleviating STING signaling has the potential to protect T2DM-associated central ailment.

INCREASED LEVELS OF PROINFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN BLOOD PLASMA IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC THROMBOEMBOLIC PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

HighlightsIL-8 and MCP-1 have a significant role in the CTEPH pathogenesis, which indicates the importance of nonspecific immunity in the formation and progression of CTEPH. The coupling between cytokines and hemodynamic parameters, cardiac structural changes and plasma biochemical parameters were determined. AbstractBackground. Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) pathogenesis is complex and not fully understood. Particular attention to the microvascular damage genesis in CTEPH is given to aseptic inflammation, which in turn could be mediated through various molecular mechanisms. According to the conflicting and incomplete data on changes in the profile of factors controlling inflammation in CTEPH, research in this field would identify new therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of CTEPH.Aim. To study the profile of plasma proinflammatory cytokines in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and evaluate the coupling of these cytokines with the main morphofunctional and laboratory values of the disease severity.Methods. 34 patients with CTEPH were included in this study. To characterize the group, the following methods were used: echocardiographic examination, catheterization of the right cardiac chambers. Biomarkers of heart failure, systemic inflammation, as well as erythropoiesis and iron metabolism were assessed in all patients. The control group included 10 donors. To study the proinflammatory cytokine profile in plasma, interleukins (IL) 6, 8, 18, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 were determined using standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits.Results. Hemodynamic and morphofunctional changes in the pulmonary circulation specific to pulmonary hypertension were determined with catheterization of the right cardiac chambers and echocardiography. During plasma proinflammatory cytokines analysis, a significant increase in the level of IL-8 (p = 0.030) and MCP-1 (p = 0.031) in CTEPH group compared to the control group was observed. No significant differences for other analyzed markers were found. In the elaboration of the correlation analysis, moderate inverse coupling between proinflammatory markers and hemodynamic parameters characterizing the CTEPH severity were revealed, as well as positive correlations with parameters of remodeling of the right cardiac chambers and iron metabolism.Conclusion. The increased levels of IL-8 and MCP-1 in patients with CTEPH identified in the present study indicate a significant role of nonspecific immunity in the formation and progression of CTEPH. The coupling between cytokines and hemodynamic parameters, structural cardiac changes and plasma biochemical parameters were determined. Based on the obtained data, it is possible to develop new medicinal substances, targeting towards proinflammatory cytokines, their receptors and signaling pathways.

The Effect of an Innovative Combination of Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction and Cynara cardunculus L. Extract on Weight Gain Reduction and Fat Browning in Obese Mice.

Obesity is one of the world's most serious public health issues, with a high risk of developing a wide range of diseases. As a result, focusing on adipose tissue dysfunction may help to prevent the metabolic disturbances commonly associated with obesity. Nutraceutical supplementation may be a crucial strategy for improving WAT inflammation and obesity and accelerating the browning process. The aim of this study was to perform a preclinical "proof of concept" study on Bergacyn®, an innovative formulation originating from a combination of bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) and Cynara cardunculus (CyC), for the treatment of adipose tissue dysfunction. In particular, Bergacyn® supplementation in WD/SW-fed mice at doses of 50 mg/kg given orally for 12 weeks, was able to reduce body weight and total fat mass in the WD/SW mice, in association with an improvement in plasma biochemical parameters, including glycemia, total cholesterol, and LDL levels. In addition, a significant reduction in serum ALT levels was highlighted. The decreased WAT levels corresponded to an increased weight of BAT tissue, which was associated with a downregulation of PPARγ as compared to the vehicle group. Bergacyn® was able to restore PPARγ levels and prevent NF-kB overexpression in the WAT of mice fed a WD/SW diet, suggesting an improved oxidative metabolism and inflammatory status. These results were associated with a significant potentiation of the total antioxidant status in WD/SW mice. Finally, our data show, for the first time, that Bergacyn® supplementation may be a valuable approach to counteract adipose tissue dysfunction and obesity-associated effects on cardiometabolic risk.

Sophora interrupta bedd., ameliorates doxorubicin induced myocardial necrosis by attenuation of oxidative stress and structural cardiomyocyte alterations in rats

The present study aimed at investigating the cardioprotective activity of Sophora interrupta Bedd against doxorubicin induced myocardial necrosis by attenuation of oxidative stress and structural cardiomyocyte alterations in rats.The experimental procedure was carried out with male Wistar rats inducing cardiotoxicity by administrating Doxorubicin in normal saline 3.750 mg/kg i.p on day 7, 14, 21 and 28 and treated with test extract of Sophora interrupta Bedd at a dose of 200 &amp; 400 mg/kg, b.wt., per orally once daily for 28 days. The heart weight to body weight ratio was measured to evaluate the effect of extract on MI. The plasma was evaluated for the biochemical parameters and cardiac markers. Pro-oxidant &amp; anti-oxidant levels were measured along with the histopathological examination of the heart. The test extractsSophora interrupta Bedd showed a significant (p&amp;#60; 0.001) restoration of the altered plasma biochemical parameters and cardiac markers reducing the extent of damage in heart musculature. The anti-oxidant effect of the test extract plays a prominent role in curative effect of cardiomyopathy associated with doxorubicin.The test extract of Sophora interrupta Bedd was beneficial for doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity by ameliorating oxidative stress and restoring the abnormal structural changes in the heart tissue.

Dietary crude protein time-dependently modulates the bacterial community and metabolites and changes dietary nutrient efficiency in growing pigs

The reduced nutrient digestibility of low-protein (LP) diets has been shown to be caused by the weakened fermentative capacity of the post-gut flora. The dynamic regulation of dietary protein contents on post-gut microbial population and fermentative metabolism is unclear. Twelve growing barrows (19.9 ± 0.8 kg) fitted with a T-cannula at the blind end of the cecum were randomly administered a high-protein (HP, 21.5% crude protein [CP]) diet or an LP (15.5% CP) diet for 28 d. The cecal content and feces were collected at d 1, 14, and 28 of the experiment for microflora structures and metabolite concentrations analysis. The nutrient digestibility coefficient and plasma biochemical parameters were also determined. Compared with the HP treatment, the LP treatment showed decreased plasma urea nitrogen concentration and apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, gross energy, and CP (P < 0.01). In addition, urinary nitrogen losses, total nitrogen losses, and daily nitrogen retention in the LP treatment were lower than those in the HP treatment (P < 0.01), and the nitrogen retention-to-nitrogen intake ratio in the LP treatment was increased (P < 0.01). The HP group showed increased cecal total short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) concentration and fecal propionate, butyrate, and total SCFA concentrations (P < 0.05) on d 14 and 28, which may be mainly related to the elevated abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, such as Ruminococcus, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella (P < 0.05). Probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium, Bacteroidales S24-7, and Rikenella, enriched in the LP treatment possibly contributed to reduced plasma endotoxin content. The differences in the abundances of almost all the above-mentioned flora appeared on d 28 but not d 14. Likewise, differences in the Simpson and Shannon indices and clustering patterns of the microbiota between treatments were also only observed on d 28. To sum up, in a time-dependent manner, the LP diet increased probiotics with gut-improving functions and decreased SCFA-producing bacteria, which may cause enhanced intestine health and reduced nutrient digestibility.