Catalase Expression Research Articles

Fortifying plant fortresses: siderophores in defense against Cercospora leaf spot disease in Vigna radiata L.

Siderophores, specialized iron-chelating molecules produced by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D5, were investigated for their role in enhancing plant defense mechanisms against Cercospora canescens in mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). Siderophores were extracted and purified using Amberlite XAD-4 and applied to plants at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 µg/mL, followed by pathogen inoculation. The treatments significantly influenced enzymatic activities and defense-related gene expression. On Day 6, peroxidase (POD) activity reached its highest value of 0.563 in the SP15 (siderophore + pathogen at 15 µg/mL) treatment, with S15 (siderophore-only at 15 µg/mL) showing a lower but significant increase of 0.453, while control groups remained unchanged. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity peaked in SP15 (0.10 U/mL), followed by S15 (0.08 U/mL), highlighting the role of these treatments in enhancing stress responses. Chitinase activity was significantly elevated in SP15 on Day 6, with a sustained response through Day 8, while no significant change was observed in the control group. Total phenolic content was highest in SP15 (100 µg/mL), showing a a ramified immune response whereas S15 recorded 80 µg/mL, significantly above the control. Gene expression analysis further demonstrated the effectiveness of siderophore and siderophore + pathogen treatments. Catalase expression was upregulated by 21.1-fold in siderophore-only treatment and amplified to 25.9-fold in SP15. Epoxide hydrolase (EH) gene expression increased by 77.3-fold in S15 and further synergized to over 90-fold in SP15. Similarly, PR10 expression showed moderate upregulation in S15 and significantly higher levels in SP15, reflecting enhanced pathogen defense. Calmodulin (CAL) gene expression was moderately regulated in S15 but significantly amplified in SP15. These findings underscore the dual role of siderophores in nutrient acquisition and as potent elicitors of plant defenses, highlighting their potential as bio-stimulants. Field trials are essential to validate these results under natural conditions and optimize their use in agriculture.

Time Course of Mitochondrial Antioxidant Markers in a Preclinical Model of Severe Penetrating Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results from external mechanical forces exerted on the brain, triggering secondary injuries due to cellular excitotoxicity. A key indicator of damage is mitochondrial dysfunction, which is associated with elevated free radicals and disrupted redox balance following TBI. However, the temporal changes in mitochondrial redox homeostasis after penetrating TBI (PTBI) have not been thoroughly examined. This study aimed to investigate redox alterations from 30 min to two-weeks post-injury in adult male Sprague Dawley rats that experienced either PTBI or a Sham craniectomy. Redox parameters were measured at several points: 30 min, 3 h, 6 h, 24 h, 3 d, 7 d, and 14 d post-injury. Mitochondrial samples from the injury core and perilesional areas exhibited significant elevations in protein modifications including 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) and protein carbonyl (PC) adducts (14–53%, vs. Sham). In parallel, antioxidants such as glutathione, NADPH, peroxiredoxin-3 (PRX-3), thioredoxin-2 (TRX-2), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were significantly depleted (20–80%, vs. Sham). In contrast, catalase (CAT) expression showed a significant increase (45–75%, vs. Sham). These findings indicate a notable imbalance in redox parameters over the two-week post-PTBI period suggesting that the therapeutic window to employ antioxidant therapy extends well beyond 24 h post-TBI.

Effect of fructo-oligosaccharides on growth performance and meat quality in broilers.

This study investigated the fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) on growth performance and meat quality in broilers. Total 160 Xianghuang broilers aged 2 months were randomly assigned into 2 groups, CON (control), FOS (supplemented 0.5% fructo-oligosaccharides in diet). After 38 days, the breast, thigh muscle and liver samples were collected for further analysis. Results showed that no significant effect of 0.5% FOS on growth performance such as average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) or feed-to-gain ratio (F:G) were observed (P > 0.05). Broilers in FOS group had a yellower breast than that in CON group (P < 0.05). Breast pH45min and thigh pH24h value of FOS group were greater than that in CON group (P < 0.05). Max shear force and work of shear of cooked breast (pectoralis major) muscle was lower in FOS group compared with CON group (P < 0.05). Hardness (P = 0.065), fracturability (P = 0.063), gumminess (P = 0.079), chewiness (P = 0.080) of cooked thigh meat tended to be higher in FOS group compared to the CON group. Addition of 0.5% FOS resulted in lower thigh total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity compared to CON group (P < 0.05). The malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration (P = 0.066) of breast muscle tended to be lower in FOS group compared with CON group. There was an increasing trend for total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activity of thigh muscle in FOS group compared to CON group (P = 0.053). Relative mRNA expression of breast catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD) were up-regulated by FOS supplementation compared with CON group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, FOS can be utilized at 0.5 % to improve meat quality such as elevating pH value, yellowness and decreasing max shear force of muscle through enhancing the antioxidant activity in broilers.

Novel Insights into Hg0 Oxidation in Rice Leaf: Catalase Functions and Transcriptome Responses.

Rice leaves can assimilate atmospheric mercury (Hg0), which is accumulated by grains and causes health risks to rice consumers. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Hg0 assimilation in rice leaves remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated catalase's (CAT) function in Hg0 oxidation within rice leaves, as well as the Hg speciation and transcriptomic profiles of rice leaves exposed to Hg0. The inactivation of catalase reduced Hg0 oxidation by 91% in the leaf homogenate and the Hg0 oxidation rate increased along with CAT activity, showing the CAT's function in Hg0 oxidation. Hg0 was converted to Hg(cysteine)2 complexes in the leaf. Transcriptomic results revealed that the expression levels of both OsCATA and OsCATB (catalase-encoding genes) increased with Hg concentration, suggesting the involvement of catalase-related molecular network in Hg0 oxidation. Upstream transcription factors, including NAC (NAM-no apical meristem, ATAF-Arabidopsis transcription activation factor, and CUC-cup-shaped cotyledon), and ethylene-responsive transcription factor, are likely involved in catalase expression. Genes related to cysteine metabolism and amino acid transport appeared to regulate Hg accumulation. Our findings demonstrate the important function of catalase in Hg0 oxidation within rice and are fundamental for developing genetically modified rice cultivars to minimize human Hg exposure health risks.

Protective effects of resveratrol on the expression of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase genes in the ovary and their activity in the serum of rats exposed to lead acetate: An experimental study.

Lead (Pb) could be toxic to the female reproductive system, and resveratrol (Res) may overcome this toxicity. To investigate the Res impact on the catalase (Cat), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and superoxide dismutase (Sod) gene expression in the ovary and on the Cat and Gpx enzyme activity in the serum of rats exposed to lead acetate. In this experimental study, 33 female Wistar rats (8-10 wk, 180-200 gr) were divided into 6 groups: a control group (normal saline), a Res group (40 mg/kg), and a Pb group (lead acetate 30 mg/kg). 3 additional groups received lead acetate (30 mg/kg) with Res at 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg for 21 days. Gene expression of Cat, Gpx, and Sod was measured via qPCR, and serum Cat and Gpx activity was assessed using standard methods. Bioinformatics tools were used to evaluate Res effects on gene and protein function. Lead acetate significantly downregulates Cat, Gpx, and Sod gene expression, but Res significantly upregulates gene expression, especially at doses of 40 mg/kg for Cat, 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg for Gpx, and 80 mg/kg for Sod. Cat and Gpx enzyme activity increased and decreased in the lead acetate group, respectively. However, Res in all doses decreased only the Cat enzyme activity. Bioinformatics analysis indicates that Res can interact with the promoter regions and cavities of all 3 enzymes. Pb can dysregulate the expression and activity of the studied enzymes. However, the impact of Res is influenced by the dose, with 40 mg/kg frequently being the most effective.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in human granulosa cells: first in vivo presence and positive correlation with body mass index and in vitro ovarian cell steroidogenesis regulation.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure leads to disorders reported in female infertility patients. Our hypothesis is that PAHs accumulate in granulosa cells (Gc) according to body mass index (BMI) and directly affects its functions. All 16 high-priority PAHs were in human FF, Gc and blood plasma with the highest concentration in Gc (GC-MS/MS). Their highest concentration was in obese Gc, except for acenaphthene and acenaphthylene, and positively correlated with BMI. In FF, we noted only positive correlation between naphthalene and BMI, whereas in blood plasma positive correlation between naphthalene, acenaphthene, pyrene and BMI. Phenanthrene and naphthalene but not fluoranthene inhibited totally steroidogenesis (ELISA), CYP19A1 mRNA expression (real-time PCR) and increased oxidative stress index and catalase expression in Gc independently on BMI. While all studied PAHs decreased Gc proliferation (BrdU assay) and viability (Cell Count kit-8 assay). Thus, Gc PAHs concentrations are positively correlated with BMI and alter ovarian functions.

Phytic Acid Delays the Senescence of Rosa roxburghii Fruit by Regulating Antioxidant Capacity and the Ascorbate-Glutathione Cycle.

Rosa roxburghii fruit has a short postharvest shelf life, with rapid declines in quality and antioxidant capacity. This research assessed how phytic acid affects the antioxidant capacity and quality of R. roxburghii fruit while in the postharvest storage period and reveals its potential mechanism of action. The findings suggested that phytic acid treatment inhibits the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and enhances the activities and expressions of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) while decreasing the generation of superoxide anions (O2•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Phytic acid treatment activates the ascorbate-glutathione (AsA-GSH) cycle and enhances the activity and expression of key enzymes in the cycle: ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR). It also increases the levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH), while reducing the production of dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Moreover, phytic acid treatment enhances the ratios of AsA/DHA and GSH/GSSG, maintaining the reduced state of the fruit. In summary, phytic acid improves antioxidant defense system and activates the AsA-GSH cycle, alleviating oxidative damage and ensuring R. roxburghii fruit quality after harvest.

Machine learning reveals CAT gene as a novel potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer

BackgroundNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents one of the most prevalent forms of lung cancer, with a five-year survival rate of 21.7%. There is an urgent need to identify pertinent biomarkers to inform the diagnosis and prognosis of tumors, particularly those that can be applied to different age groups. Herein, we would apply machine learning methods to specifically analyze the issue of biomarker applicability across different age groups in NSCLC.MethodsStudies have shown a higher incidence of NSCLC in people over 40 years of age, and due to the limitations of data set, studies of individuals under 40 years of age were not included in this study. To simulate the human aging model as closely as possible, we gathered corresponding non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) samples from the UCSC Xena database based on patient age information. These samples were then categorized into three groups: 40–60, 60–80, and over 80 years old. Subsequently, we employed four machine learning methods—Random Forest, LASSO regression analysis, XGBoost, and GBM—to identify gene sets with significant diagnostic value for each age group. By taking the intersection of these sets, we identified the optimal gene and assessed its prognostic significance in NSCLC. Then, the diagnostic value of CAT gene was validated using global public databases, including the GSE32863, GSE43458, GSE68571, GSE10072, and GSE63459 datasets from the Americas, the GSE30219 and GSE102511 datasets from Europe, and the GSE31210 and GSE19804 datasets from Asia. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining was performed in an independent cohort from a tissue microarray. Additionally, cell culture and RT-qPCR were employed for external validation.ResultsThrough the implementation of machine learning methods, we successfully identified the catalase (CAT) gene. Our analysis revealed that individuals with high expression of the CAT gene experienced improved survival rates. Additionally, these individuals exhibited elevated immune scores. We further discovered that the CAT gene synergizes with multiple components of neutrophils, including TLRs, FcRn, and the selective GEF of Rho-family GTPases. In addition, we identified a potential immune checkpoint, TNFSF15, which is applicable to the human aging model. Finally, we validated the CAT gene's diagnostic value using databases encompassing the Americas, Europe, and Asia regions. Through external RT-qPCR validation, we verified that CAT expression in BEAS-2B was higher than that of A549. In an independent human cohort, we also verified that CAT is lowly expressed in lung cancer tissues. In addition, higher CAT levels were associated with improved survival in the 40–60 and 60–80 age groups.ConclusionsIn our analysis of the NSCLC database, we pinpointed the CAT gene, which holds promise for potential diagnostic and prognostic applications in the context of human aging. Furthermore, it may offer insights into addressing age-related heterogeneity of NSCLC.

Effects of vitamin D and common nettle (Urtica dioica) extract administration on Mn-SOD and Catalase (CAT) secretion in the colon tissues of rats with experimentally induced Crohn's disease.

We have examined some effects of administering vitamin D and extract of common nettle (Urtica dioica) to rats with experimentally induced Crohn's disease (CR). Body weight and colon length were lower in the CR group than in normal controls, whereas scores for histopathologic changes seen in sections stained by the H&E and PAS methods were lower in rats with CR than in those that also received either vitamin D (CRD) or nettle extract (CRI). Strong manganese-superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) immunoreactivity was detected in the crypt epithelium of the CR and CRI groups and in the lymphoid tissue of the CRD group. Weak catalase (CAT) immunoreactivity in the crypt epithelium in the CR, CRI, and CRD groups and strong CAT immunoreactivity in the lymphoid tissue in the CR group were also observed. Our results reveal that administering either vitamin D and common nettle extract can have augment Mn-SOD and CAT expression in colon tissues and contribute to alleviation of some complications of experimental Crohn's disease.

Protective effects of soybean peptides on H2O2-induced oxidative injury in IPEC-J2 cells

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate how soybean peptides (SBP) protect against H2O2 -induced injury in intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). SBP were prepared by protease hydrolysis, in which the molecular weights of 95.76% SBP were smaller than 3 kDa. Cell experiment included four groups: Control group (IPEC-J2 cells were treated with HGDMEM), SBP group (100 μg/mL SBP incubation for 13 h), H2O2 treatment group (1 mM H2O2 treatment for 1 h), SBP + H2O2 group (100 μg/mL SBP pretreatment for 12 h followed by 1 mM H2O2 treatment for 1 h). This study showed that that treatment with single 1 mM H2O2 for 1 h significantly reduced cell viability to 52.99% (p &amp;lt; 0.05), up-regulated Bax and Caspase-3 gene expressions (p &amp;lt; 0.05), and down-regulated gene expressions of ZO-1, CAT, SOD1, HO-1 and Nrf2 (p &amp;lt; 0.05), compared with the control group. However, pretreatment with SBP followed by H2O2 inducement significantly increased cell viability to 72.99%, decreased cell apoptosis, increased SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activity (p &amp;lt; 0.05), down-regulated Bax and Caspase-3 gene expressions (p &amp;lt; 0.05), and up-regulated the gene expressions of ZO-1, Claudin-1, Occludin, catalase, glutathione GPX1, SOD1, HO-1, NQO1 and Nrf2, compared with the single H2O2–induced cells. According to the study, SBP pretreatment reduced H2O2-induced oxidative stress in cells and preserved the integrity of intestinal cells.

Exploring the Antioxidant Mechanisms of Nanoceria in Protecting HT22 Cells from Oxidative Stress.

An excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, is a major factor in aging. Antioxidant therapies are considered crucial for delaying aging. Nanoceria, a nanozyme with antioxidant activity, holds significant potential in protecting cells from oxidative stress-induced damage. This research examines the neuroprotective role of nanoceria on HT22 cells subjected to oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and explores the associated molecular mechanisms. Our findings indicate that nanoceria enhances bcl-2 expression and significantly reduces Bax expression, resulting in an increased bcl-2/Bax ratio, which confirms its anti-apoptotic effect. Nanoceria boosts catalase expression and suppresses the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, indicating its role in shielding HT22 cells from oxidative stress damage induced by H2O2 through various protective mechanisms. These findings provide crucial experimental evidence for the potential applications of nanoceria in skin anti-aging and the prevention and treatment of other oxidative stress-related diseases.

Effects of different concentrations of N-acetylcysteine on the sperm quality, antioxidant enzyme activity, and antioxidant gene expression of cryopreserved goat semen.

During cryopreservation, spermatozoa produce excess reactive oxygen species (ROS), which attack the plasma membrane, disrupt the physiological structure of the sperm, and ultimately decrease semen quality. This study investigated the effects of different N-acetylcysteine (NAC) concentrations on the cryopreservation of semen from Qianbei Ma goats. Semen samples were collected from five bucks with motility rates above 80%. The treatment groups were diluted 20-fold in extenders containing 3 or 9mM NAC and cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen, whereas the control group did not include NAC. After thawing, the sperm motility, antioxidant gene expression, enzyme activity, and cell structure were analysed. The NAC-treated groups showed improved post-thaw sperm motility. The 9mM NAC group presented the highest catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase activities, lowest ROS levels, and fewest apoptotic sperms. Moreover, the 3mM NAC group presented the highest superoxide dismutase activity and L-cysteine levels and the lowest malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, sperm membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential were significantly higher in the NAC-treated group than that in the control. Further analysis of antioxidant and apoptotic gene expression in the treated sperm revealed that the 9mM NAC group presented significantly greater CAT and GPX4 expression than the control and 3mM NAC groups, whereas the apoptotic genes BAX and Caspase3 were elevated in the control group compared to both the NAC groups. In summary, adding NAC to semen extenders enhanced antioxidant gene expression, increased enzyme activity, and improved post-thaw semen quality, with the 9mM NAC treatment showing the optimal effects.

Assessment of Placental Antioxidant Defense Markers in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated COVID-19 Third-Trimester Pregnancies.

Pregnancy has been identified as a risk factor for severe COVID-19, leading to maternal and neonatal complications. The safety and effects of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination during pregnancy, particularly on placental function and oxidative stress (OxS), remain underexplored. We investigated the impact of vaccination on third-trimester placental antioxidant defense markers. Ninety full-term pregnant women were divided into the following groups: vaccinated (n = 27) and unvaccinated (n = 25) COVID-19-positive pregnant women; control subgroups were composed of vaccinated (n = 19) or unvaccinated (n = 19) COVID-19-negative women with a healthy term singleton pregnancy with no signs of COVID-19. Placental samples were collected after delivery. Lipid peroxidation (TBARS), gene expression of HIF-1α, and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) and CAT-SOD1 enzymatic activity were measured. COVID-19-positive placentae exhibited significantly higher TBARS and HIF-1α levels compared to controls, regardless of vaccination status. Vaccination significantly increased placental CAT and SOD1 expression and activity in COVID-19-positive women, suggesting enhanced antioxidant defense. Unvaccinated women showed a higher incidence of COVID-19 symptoms and lower antioxidant enzyme activity. SARS-CoV-2 infection induced placental OxS, which is countered by a placental adaptive antioxidant response. Vaccination during pregnancy enhances placental defense, further supporting the safety and benefits of COVID-19 vaccination in preventing complications and protecting fetal development.

Stimulatory effects of dietary savory (Satureja hortensis L.) ethanolic extract on growth, digestive enzymes, immune parameters, antioxidant defense, and immune and antioxidant-related genes in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

The current investigation focused on examining the growth performance, immune and antioxidative factors, and mRNA levels of immune and antioxidant-related genes in zebrafish (Danio rerio) that were fed with different levels of savory (Satureja hortensis L.) ethanolic extract (SEE) for 8 weeks. To achieve this objective, a total of 240 zebrafish with a mean weight of 65.37 ± 5.9 mg were fed on 0.0 (the control; T0), 0.5 % (T0.5), 1 % (T1), and 2 % (T2) of SEE for a period of 8 weeks. The results for the growth performance of zebrafish showed that the final weight (165.20±1.92 mg), Weight gain (147.71±1.15 mg), specific growth rate (1.62±0.03) was significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced with the dietary SEE levels and the best performance was noted in T1 and T2. highest activity levels of α-amylase (53.56±1.21), lipase (3.56±0.16), proteases (13.78±0.21), pepsin (0.31±0.01), chymotrypsin (0.44±0.01), and trypsin (0.68±0.01) were observed especially T2 (P < 0.05). The results of tissue and mucus immune factors revealed that feeding the fish on SEE diets significantly increased the immune activity represented by lysozyme, total Immunoglobulin (Ig), Immunoglobulin M (IgM), total protein, and ACH50 (P < 0.05). The malondialdehyde value was significantly (P < 0.05) affected by experimental diets and its lowest value was notably observed in T1 and T2 than those in T0 and T0.5. The tissue and mucus activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant activity (TAC) increased considerably (P < 0.05) in the treatments fed with SEE, and their highest levels were detected in T1 and T2. The relative mRNA expression of CAT, SOD, GPx, and glutathione reductase (GSR) genes in treatments fed with different SEE levels was higher than those in the control group. The relative expression of Lysozyme was notably higher, meanwhile the expression of genes including Interleukin 1β (IL.1B), Interleukin 8 (IL8), and Tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), significantly decreased in fish fed with SEE; especially at T1 and T2. The present study, 1–2 % savory ethanolic extract of SEE improved the performance, immune, and antioxidant levels.

DsbA-L deficiency promotes cigarette smoke-induced bronchial epithelial cells ferroptosis by inhibiting catalase in COPD

BackgroundFerroptosis, characterized by iron-dependent programmed cell death, has been implicated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Recent studies have shown that the disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein (DsbA-L) is associated with various diseases. However, the involvement of DsbA-L in COPD remains unclear. MethodsTo establish a COPD model, 8-week-old male mice were exposed to cigarette smoke (CS) for 6 months. BEAS-2B cells were cultured with cigarette smoke extract (CSE) in vitro. DsbA-L siRNA, DsbA-L plasmid, or catalase siRNA were used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Lung function; lung histopathology; Fe2+ concentration; glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels; and protein expression of DsbA-L, xCT, glutathione peroxidase-4 (GPX4), and catalase were measured. ResultsDsbA-L expression was significantly decreased in the lung tissues of COPD mice and CSE-treated BEAS-2B cells. DsbA-L knockout exacerbated COPD progression by increasing ferroptosis, as confirmed by reduced GSH, xCT, and GPX4 levels and elevated Fe2+, ROS, 4-HNE and MDA levels. Catalase expression was also attenuated in the lung tissues of COPD mice and CSE-treated BEAS-2B cells. DsbA-L overexpression ameliorated ferroptosis by upregulating catalase expression in BEAS-2B cells, whereas catalase knockdown abolished the effects of DsbA-L overexpression on ferroptosis. ConclusionDsbA-L deficiency exacerbated COPD progression by promoting ferroptosis in bronchial epithelial cells through catalase inhibition. These findings indicate that DsbA-L may be an underlying therapeutic strategy for COPD.

Therapeutic Potential of Oligo-Fucoidan in Mitigating Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Fibrosis.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) serves as a home-based kidney replacement therapy with increasing utilization across the globe. However, long-term use of high-glucose-based PD solution incites repeated peritoneal injury and inevitable peritoneal fibrosis, thus compromising treatment efficacy and resulting in ultrafiltration failure eventually. In the present study, we utilized human mesothelial MeT-5A cells for the in vitro experiments and a PD mouse model for in vivo validation to study the pathophysiological mechanisms underneath PD-associated peritoneal fibrosis. High-glucose PD solution (Dianeal 4.25%, Baxter) increased protein expression of mesothelial-mesenchymal transition (MMT) markers, such as N-cadherin and α-SMA in MeT-5A cells, whereas it decreased catalase expression and stimulated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, macrophage influx and increased serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, MCP-1, and TNF-α, were observed in the PD mouse model. Interestingly, we discovered that oligo-fucoidan, an oligosaccharide extract from brown seaweed, successfully prevented PD-associated peritoneal thickening and fibrosis through antioxidant effect, downregulation of MMT markers, and attenuation of peritoneal and systemic inflammation. Hence, oligo-fucoidan has the potential to be developed into a novel preventive strategy for PD-associated peritoneal fibrosis.

Liposome encapsulating pine bark extract in Nile tilapia: Targeting interrelated immune and antioxidant defense to combat coinfection with Aeromonas hydrophila and Enterococcus faecalis

Application of smart delivery systems for encapsulation of natural ingredients provides novel avenues and is being frequently developed. Thus, we aimed to highlight the effects of cyclosome liposomal pine bark extract (CL-PBE) on Nile tilapia growth, immunomodulation, antioxidant capacity and resistance against coinfection with Aeromonas hydrophila and Enterococcus faecalis and their associated virulence genes. The experiment was conducted on four fish groups receiving a control diet (control) along with three baseline meals supplemented with 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg diet of CL-PBE (CL-PBE 200, 400 and 600, respectively). At the end of the 12-weeks feeding trial, the tilapias were intraperitoneally challenged with virulent A. hydrophila strain and five days later, E. faecalis challenge was carried out. The results revealed that tilapias fed diets fortified with CL-PBE displayed significantly enhanced growth rate and feed conversion ratio in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, we demonstrated that CL-PBE had potent antioxidant property presented by modulation of several markers of oxidative stress; substantial reductions in reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels, an elevation in total antioxidant capacity and boosting glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in fish serum and muscle tissues. This was also correlated with augmenting the expression of CAT, SOD, GSH-Px, Nrf2 and caspase-1 genes alongside reducing those of COX-2, HSP70 and iNOS genes in response to CL-PBE. Our data demonstrated that CL-PBE fortification counteracted the overly pronounced inflammatory response-mediated induction of IL-1β, TNF-α, MHCII and TLR2 genes at the transcriptional levels post coinfection together with promotion in MUC2 and IL-10 genes expression. Notably, our findings displayed optimal well-functioning fish immune system post dietary supplementation of CL-PBE for the protection against coinfection with A. hydrophila and E. faecalis. This was evident from the decline of their counts and hence encompassing the capacity to reduce cumulative mortality percentage in conjunction with interference with their virulence via the significant downregulatory effects of CL-PBE on E. faecalis esp and gelE and A. hydrophila act and fla virulence genes. Taken together, our study strongly suggested dietary inclusion of CL-PBE for Nile tilapias with superior growth performance and significant economic benefits coupled with potent stimulatory effects on antioxidant capacity and immune response expediting our detailed understanding of how coinfection with A. hydrophila and E. faecalis was controlled.

Free Cholesterol-Induced Liver Injury in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Mechanisms and a Therapeutic Intervention Using Dihydrotanshinone I.

Build-up of free cholesterol (FC) substantially contributes to the development and severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Here, we investigate the specific mechanism by which FC induces liver injury in NAFLD and propose a novel therapeutic approach using dihydrotanshinone I (DhT). Rather than cholesterol ester (CE), we observed elevated levels of total cholesterol, FC, and alanine transaminase (ALT) in NAFLD patients and high-cholesterol diet-induced NAFLD mice compared to those in healthy controls. The FC level demonstrated a positive correlation with the ALT level in both patients and mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that FC elevated reactive oxygen species level, impaired the function of lysosomes, and disrupted lipophagy process, consequently inducing cell apoptosis. We then found that DhT protected mice on an HCD diet, independent of gut microbiota. DhT functioned as a potent ligand for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), stimulating its transcriptional function and enhancing catalase expression to lower reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. Notably, the protective effect of DhT was nullified in mice with hepatic PPARα knockdown. Thus, these findings are the first to report the detrimental role of FC in NAFLD, which could lead to the development of new treatment strategies for NAFLD by leveraging the therapeutic potential of DhT and PPARα pathway.

Survival, serum biochemical parameters, hepatic antioxidant status, and gene expression of three Nile tilapia strains under pathogenic Streptococcus agalactiae challenge

Streptococcosis is the leading bacterial disease impacting Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and causes substantial economic losses in China. This study assessed the resistance and tolerance of three Nile tilapia (88, 99, and NG) to Streptococcus agalactiae infection. Survival rates were monitored, and samples were collected from blood, liver, and spleen at 0, 1, 2, 5, 7, and 14 days post-infection. Serum biochemical parameters, hepatic antioxidant enzymes, and the expression of related antioxidant and immune genes were measured. Results showed that strain 88 had superior resistance, with the highest survival rate, reduced liver damage, and lower alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels at 1 and 5 days post-infection. This strain also had higher serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels between days 5 and 14. Antioxidant activities increased in all strains post-infection, with strain 88 showing significantly higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and elevated catalase (CAT) and SOD gene expressions; this indicated enhanced control of reactive oxygen species and reduced tissue damage. Additionally, strain 88 exhibited lower levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10) with higher IgM levels and superior MHC-II expression during early infection, which demonstrated a strong immune response. These results indicate that strain 88 is a promising candidate for selective breeding to improve streptococcosis resistance in tilapia.

Comparative metabolome and transcriptome analyses reveal the role of MeJA in improving postharvest disease resistance and maintaining the quality of Rosa roxburghii fruit

Rosa roxburghii has a short and concentrated harvest period, during which rapid decay and quality deterioration at room temperature pose significant challenges to the supply chain. To address this, we applied methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment and stored the fruit at low temperatures. MeJA treatment effectively reduced decay, maintained fruit firmness and brightness, suppressed respiration, and decreased malondialdehyde content. Further analysis revealed that MeJA reduced hydrogen peroxide levels by boosting the activities and gene expressions of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). Additionally, MeJA upregulated the expression of disease resistance-related genes (RrRGA3, RrPPO, RrCHIT, RrPRB1, and RrRPM1). It also stimulated genes involved in the AsA synthesis and AsA-GSH cycle (RrMIXO, RrAKRC9, RrDHAR, and RrGPX), thereby increasing AsA content. Moreover, MeJA promoted the activities (PAL, C4H, and 4CL) and gene expressions (RrPAL, Rr4CL, RrCSE, RrCCR, RrPGT, RrHCT, RrDFR and RrERF114) of phenylpropane metabolism, resulting in increased levels of L-phenylalanine, caffeic acid, phlorizin, and other phenolic acids and lignin content. Furthermore, MeJA induced the expression of genes related to JA biosynthesis (RrAOC, RrOPR, and RrACX), and abscisic acid synthesis (RrNCED). In conclusion, these findings suggest that MeJA treatment enhances disease resistance and preserves the postharvest quality of R. roxburghii, making it a promising preservation method for large-scale commercial application in fruit storage.