Component Of Defense Research Articles

Antifungal peptides from living organisms

In the post-COVID-19 era, people are increasingly concerned about microbial infections, including fungal infections that have risen in recent years. However, the currently available antifungal agents are rather limited. Worse still, the widespread use of the antifungal agents has caused the emergence of antifungal resistance in Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus species. Therefore, the development of novel antifungals is urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as components of the first-line defense of the host, are found to exhibit broad antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, and protozoa. AMPs with antifungal activity are specifically referred to as antifungal peptides (AFPs). AFPs are currently regarded as the most promising alternative to conventional antifungal agents due to the fact that they are highly selective and less prone to facilitate the selection of drug resistance. In this review, we present an overview of the origin and classification of natural AFPs as well as their modes of action. Additionally, the production of natural, semisynthetic, and synthetic AFPs with a view to greater levels of exploitation is discussed. Finally, we evaluate the current and potential applications of AFPs in clinics and in the food industry.

Selective Biofilm Inhibition through Mucin-Inspired Engineering of Silk Glycopolymers.

Mucins are key components of innate immune defense and possess remarkable abilities to manage pathogenic microbes while supporting beneficial ones and maintaining microbial homeostasis at mucosal surfaces. Their unique properties have garnered significant interest in developing mucin-inspired materials as novel therapeutic strategies for selectively controlling pathogens without disrupting the overall microbial ecology. However, natural mucin production is challenging to scale, driving the need for simpler materials that reproduce mucin's bioactivity. In this work, we generated silk-based glycopolymers with different monosaccharides (GalNAc, GlcNAc, NeuNAc, GlcN, and GalN) and different grafting densities. Using the oral cavity as a model system, we treated in vitro cultures of pathogenic Streptococcus mutans and commensal Streptococcus sanguinis with our glycopolymers, finding that silk-tethered GalNAc uniquely prevented biofilm formation without affecting overall bacterial growth of either species. This relatively simple material reproduced mucin's virulence-neutralizing effects while maintaining biocompatibility. These mucin-inspired materials represent a valuable tool for preventing infection-related harm and offer a strategy for the domestication of pathogens in other environments.

Beyond the Surface: Investigating Ethical Hacking for Cyber Defense

Ethical hacking is basic for proactively distinguishing and settling security vulnerabilities in data frameworks. As cyber dangers gotten to be more modern, solid defense components are more critical than ever. This paper examines how ethical hacking enhances cybersecurity by combining traditional penetration testing with modern machine learning techniques. A case study on using the insulation timber algorithm for anomaly discovery demonstrates its effectiveness in relating implicit security breaches in network business. The paper also underscores the need to follow legal and ethical guidelines in hacking practices. Integrating ethical hacking with advanced analytical methods helps organizations better detect and address vulnerabilities, ultimately strengthening their defenses against cyberattacks. In addition to technical strategies, the paper emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal and ethical standards in all hacking activities. Ethical hacking must be conducted within a framework of clear guidelines and permissions to ensure it remains a constructive force for improving security rather than becoming a potential threat itself. Integrating ethical hacking practices with advanced analytical methods allows organizations to develop a more resilient defense posture, facilitating the early detection and mitigation of vulnerabilities and reducing the risk of successful cyberattacks.

Employing the Trifluoromethyl Group on a 5/5 Fused Triazolo[4,3-b][1,2,4]triazole Backbone: A Viable Strategy for Attaining Balanced Energetics.

In this study, we synthesized trifluoromethyl-substituted bis-triazole nitrogen-rich compounds (3-5) using a simple, cost-effective method. The newly made compounds were characterized using NMR, IR, elemental analysis, TGA-DSC, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (for compounds 3 and 4). They demonstrated high density (1.82-1.92 g cm-3), moderate detonation performance (7567-7905 m s-1), good thermal stability (146-215 °C), and low sensitivity to impact (40 J) and friction (360 N), offering high potential nature as a cationic component in energetic salts, defense, and civilian applications.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio): A Pioneer Model in Medical Chemical Defense Researches

Preparing the highest level of preparedness plans and treatment procedures against the adverse effects of chemical warfare agents (CWA) is the most important component of chemical defense. Currently, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model, which exhibits superior qualities compared to rodents for evaluating CWA effects, is the most important subject of this study. An overview of the zebrafish model and existing research using this model in CWA studies is presented. The anatomical and physiological features of the zebrafish have made it a popular model organism. Literature studies have shown that the zebrafish model is a versatile model for observing the effects of CWA.

Rosmarinic acid alleviates the cardiac abnormalities in high fat diet induced hypercholesterolemic rats

Hyperlipidemia is a well-known risk factor for atherosclerosis and subsequent atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases that are associated with high morbidity and mortality in obese and diabetic patients worldwide. The current study looked on rosmarinic acid's cadioprotective effects in rats fed a high-fat diet as there was no study on this aspect. The rats were given a high-fat diet comprising of 84.3 % conventional laboratory rat chow, 5 % lard, 10 % egg yolk powder, 0.2 % cholesterol, and 0.5 % bile salt to produce hypercholesterolemia. Over a span of eight weeks. The plasma lipid profile, cardiac marker enzymes, membrane bound ATPases, lysosomal enzymes, CRP, fibrinogen, proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6,TNF-α, NF-κB),anti-inflammatory cytokine(IL-10) lipid peroxidation markers, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant enzymes activity were examined. The thoracic aorta's histopathology was also analyzed. It was discovered that the rats fed a high-fat diet had hypercholesterolemia and showed aberrant values in the aforementioned parameters. However, rats given rosmarinic acid (100 mg/kg b.w.) had these anomalies reversed to near-normal levels. The biochemical investigation was corroborated by enhanced histological examination of the thoracic aorta in rats suffering from hypercholestolemia. The effects of rosmarinic acid on a number of measures were similar to those of the prescription medication simvastatin. These findings revealed that rosmarinic acid is an important component in the cardiovascular system's defence against a high-fat diet induced hypercholesterolemia

Immune defense adaptation of Strauchbufo raddei population in heavy metal polluted area: Insights from developmental and environmental perspectives

The adjustment of immune defense mechanisms is a crucial aspect of biological adaptation to stressful environments. Amphibians, with their unique metamorphic process, experience distinct life stages and exhibit diverse immune defense components. While previous studies have focused on specific immune changes during particular life stages under stress, this research addresses a critical gap by exploring the adaptive immune defense strategies of Strauchbufo raddei in heavy metal-polluted environments. We conducted laboratory experiments, exposing offspring from both polluted and unpolluted areas to control and heavy metal treatments, while continuously monitoring changes in immune components during key metamorphic stages. Notably, we examined the role of the skin microbiome, a crucial but often overlooked barrier against pathogens. The results indicated that individuals from polluted areas exhibited some tolerance to heavy metal exposure, though overall immune function remained diminished. During metamorphosis, when immune defenses are most vulnerable, the skin microbiome rapidly enriched beneficial bacteria, preventing pathogenic colonization and playing a pivotal role in maintaining immune defense in contaminated environments. Moreover, our research highlights energy allocation strategies involving corticosterone and body fat content, enabling populations to maintain development despite immune compromise. The immune adaptations observed may be fixed through genetic assimilation, suggesting a rapid evolutionary response to environmental stress. However, this reduces phenotypic plasticity, making populations more vulnerable to future environmental changes. This study provides key insights into the survival strategies of amphibian populations in heavy metal-contaminated areas, laying the foundation for future research on molecular and evolutionary adaptations.

Integrated Defense: Combining Aspects of Social Media, Cyber and Technology in the Context of Asymmetric Warfare

Integrated defense is a core component of Indonesia's defense and security strategy, designed to protect the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national safety from both physical and non-physical threats, especially cyber threats. With the rapid technological advancements and the rise of social media, cyber threats have become a significant concern as they impact various aspects of national security. Indonesia's large population of internet and social media users heightens the urgency for strategic attention to cyber defense. The government has introduced various policies and regulations, such as those by the Ministry of Defense, to strengthen cyber security and integrate it into national defense mechanisms. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach, analyzing literature and legal frameworks to highlight the significance of integrated defense in addressing modern, asymmetric threats. In asymmetric warfare, non-military means, including cyber-attacks, are used to weaken a nation's ideological, political, economic, and social systems. The research emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and adaptive strategy, involving collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society, to counter these complex threats. Strengthening cyber defense through education, training, and public awareness is crucial for safeguarding Indonesia's national security in the digital age.

The protein segregase VCP/p97 promotes host antifungal defense via regulation of SYK activation.

C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) are essential to execute host defense against fungal infection. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of CLR signaling remains a work in progress. Here, we searched for yet-to-be-identified tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in Dectin-1 signaling and linked the stress-response protein valosin containing protein (VCP)/p97 to Dectin-1 signaling. Knockdown of VCP expression or chemical inhibition of VCP's segregase activity dampened Dectin-1-elicited SYK activation in BMDMs and BMDCs, leading to attenuated expression of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and CXCL1. Biochemical analyses demonstrated that VCP and its cofactor UFD1 form a complex with SYK and its phosphatase SHP-1 following Dectin-1 ligation, and knockdown of VCP led to a more prominent SYK and SHP-1 association. Further, SHP-1 became polyubiquitinated upon Dectin-1 activation, and VCP or UFD1 overexpression accelerated SHP-1 degradation. Conceivably, VCP may promote Dectin-1 signaling by pulling the ubiquitinated SHP-1 out of the SYK complex for degradation. Finally, genetic ablation of VCP in the neutrophil and macrophage compartment rendered the mice highly susceptible to infection by Candida albicans, an observation also phenocopied by administering the VCP inhibitor. These results collectively demonstrate that VCP is a previously unappreciated signal transducer of the Dectin-1 pathway and a crucial component of antifungal defense, and suggest a new mechanism regulating SYK activation.

Study on Active Components and Mechanism of Lettuce Latex Against Spodoptera Litura.

Plant latex is a sticky emulsion exuded from laticifers once the plant is damaged. Latex is an essential component of plant defense against herbivores. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in the Compositae family has relatively fewer insect herbivores compared with other leaf vegetables. The larvae of a generalist lepidopteran pest Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) avoided feeding on living lettuce plants. However, the larvae rapidly damaged the excised leaves that were unable to produce latex. Six compounds were isolated from lettuce latex. They were identified as 2,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (1), 3β-hydroxy-4,15-dehydrograndolide (2), annuolide D (3), lactucin (4), lactucopicrin (5), and hanphyllin (6). Bioassays showed that the inhibition rate of compound 1 (2,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde) and 6 (hanphyllin, a sesquiterpene lactone) on the weight gain of S. litura were 52.4 % and 10 %, respectively, at the concentration of 100 μg/g. RNA-seq analyses showed that larval exposure to compound 1 down-regulated the genes associated with heterobiotic metabolism including drug metabolism-cytochrome P450, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, retinol metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and drug metabolism-other enzymes (mainly uridine diphosphate glucuronyltransferase, UGTs). RT-qPCR further confirmed that 33 genes in the family of carboxylesterase (CarE), P450s and UGTs were down-regulated by compound 1. The activities of CarE, P450s and UGTs in the larvae fed on diets containing compound 1 were significantly lower than those fed on control diets, with the inhibition for the three detoxification enzymes being 55.4 %, 53.9 %, and 52.9 %. These findings suggest that secondary metabolites including 2,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde in the latex play a key role in protecting lettuce from insect herbivory.

Roles of Macrophages in Viral Infections

Macrophages are an important component of the first-line defense against pathogens, including viruses [...]

Acute and multigenerational effects of short-chain chlorinated paraffins on the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus japonicus

Although the measurement of short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) in aquatic ecosystems has increased, limited information is available on their toxic effects on aquatic animals. To evaluate the harmful effects of SCCPs, we assessed their acute impact on 24-h survival and biochemical parameters, as well as their chronic effects on growth and reproduction over three generations in the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus japonicus. Dose-dependent increases in mortality were observed, with an LC50 value of 74.6 μg L−1 for 24 h. Acute exposure to the LC10 value for 24 h significantly reduced feeding behavior, accompanied by a notable decrease in acetylcholinesterase enzymatic activity. Simultaneously, the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species increased, along with elevated malondialdehyde contents. Glutathione level was increased by the LC10 value of SCCPs with the induction of enzymatic activities of antioxidant defense components, including glutathione S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. When T. japonicus was continuously exposed to 1/10 of the NOEC and NOEC values for 12 days across three generations (F0–F2), growth retardation was observed in the F2 generation, with delay in the developmental periods from nauplius to adult. Although the total number of nauplii per brood was not significantly altered across generations, a significant delay in the onset of reproduction was observed in the F2 generation. Our findings suggest that even sublethal concentrations of SCCPs can negatively affect the health of copepod populations with consistent exposure.

Human microglia polarization following infection with the Lyme disease spirochete.

Infection with Borrelia burgdorferi can spread and cause central nervous system involvement, known as neuroborreliosis. Microglia phagocytose bacteria, mediate inflammation, and elicit an immune response toward the spirochete. Like other tissue macrophages, microglia can polarize into two different modulatory phenotypes, M1 and M2. We explored human microglial polarization changes upon infection with B. burgdorferi. HMC3 human microglia cell line was infected with B. burgdorferi for 24 h. Expression of polarization markers was evaluated via flow cytometry at 4 and 24 h. Secreted immunological mediators were evaluated using a multiplex ELISA system at 4, 18, and 24 h. An early decrease followed by a later increase in expression of M1 polarization marker iNOS was observed at 4 h, and 24 h, respectively. A decrease in M2 marker CX3CR1 occurred at 24 h. There were no changes in expression of M1 markers CD14, or in M2 markers CD163 and CD206. Multiplex ELISA evidenced an increase in secretion of activation markers MIP-1α, MIP- 1β, IP-10, chemotactic factor MCP-1, M1 polarization cytokine IL-8, and VEGF, at 4, 18, and 24 h. A decrease of iNOS at 4 h of infection suggests a diminished production of reactive nitrogen species that are a critical component of innate defense against infection. Increased iNOS and simultaneously decreased expression of CX3CR1 at 24 h, may suggest initiation of neuroprotective regulation of microglia recruitment to neuroinflammation. The dynamics of major inflammatory cytokines appear to be important in the microglial response to B. burgdorferi and should be further studied as these could become therapeutic targets in neuroborreliosis.

Thioredoxin System in Insects: Uncovering the Roles of Thioredoxins and Thioredoxin Reductase beyond the Antioxidant Defences.

Increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during aerobic metabolism in animals can negatively affect the intracellular redox status, cause oxidative stress and interfere with physiological processes in the cells. The antioxidant defence regulates ROS levels by interplaying diverse enzymes and non-enzymatic metabolites. The thioredoxin system, consisting of the enzyme thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), the redox-active protein thioredoxin (Trx) and NADPH, represent a crucial component of antioxidant defence. It is involved in the signalling and regulation of multiple developmental processes, such as cell proliferation or apoptotic death. Insects have evolved unique variations of TrxR, which resemble mammalian enzymes in overall structure and catalytic mechanisms, but the selenocysteine-cysteine pair in the active site is replaced by a cysteine-cysteine pair typical of bacteria. Moreover, the role of the thioredoxin system in insects is indispensable due to the absence of glutathione reductase, an essential enzyme of the glutathione system. However, the functions of the Trx system in insects are still poorly characterised. In the present review, we provide a critical overview of the current knowledge on the insect Trx system, focusing mainly on TrxR's role in the antioxidant and immune system of model insect species.

First comprehensive evaluation of genetic variability for bacterial blight resistance in wild Punica granatum L. populations from the North-Western Himalayas

Identifying and selecting disease-resistant sources from wild germplasm pools is pivotal due to their ecological benefits and cost-effectiveness. This study encompassed the survey and collection of wild pomegranate genotypes alongside commercial cultivars, followed by screening against native pathogens. Additionally, biochemical analyses were conducted to elucidate defense mechanisms in both resistant and susceptible genotypes. Cuttings from selected germplasm across four districts were obtained, grown for one year, and assessed for pathogenicity and biochemical responses. Microscopic and molecular analyses confirmed the pathogen as Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae (Xap), identified by its distinctive morphology and a 1500 bp amplicon along with phylogeny analysis. Germplasm screening via detached and attached leaf assays identified genotypes with minimal disease severity, highlighting SH-14 and SH-16 as highly resistant in the attached leaf assay. Principal component analysis categorized genotypes based on disease parameters, with PC1 explaining approximately 75 % of the variability. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering further grouped genotypes into ten clusters, emphasizing clusters IX and X for their significant resistance traits. Biochemical studies revealed that the resistant genotype SH-16 exhibited higher levels of constitutive defense components like chlorophyll and vitamin C, as well as induced defense components such as phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants, compared to the susceptible cultivar Bhagwa. These findings underscore the critical roles of both constitutive and induced defense mechanisms in conferring pomegranate resistance to Xap. The study's comprehensive approach in evaluating genetic and biochemical resistance provides valuable insights for breeding disease-resistant pomegranate varieties, marking a significant advancement in exploring pomegranate wild relatives from the Himalayan region for their resistance to bacterial blight.

The Role of the Ministry of Home Affairs as Non-Military Defense in Handling Inflation to Support National Security

Inflation is one of the non-military threats in the economic dimension, as stipulated in Presidential Regulation Number 8 of 2021 concerning the General Defense Policy of 2020-2024. The Ministry of Home Affairs plays a crucial role as a key component in non-military defense against the threat of inflation in Indonesia. This research aims to elucidate the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs as part of non-military defense in handling inflation to support national security of a country. The author employs a qualitative research method with data collection techniques including interviews, observations, literature review, and data analysis using an interactive model by Miles Huberman, Saldana (2014), and Bruce J. Cohen's Theory of Roles (1992). The research findings indicate that the Ministry of Home Affairs, as part of Non-Military Defense, has played an enacted role in concrete efforts to control inflation. In the context of National Security, these follow-up actions by the Ministry of Home Affairs can have implications for economic stability and the inflation rate to support or maintain national security of a country

Enhanced Antimicrobial Peptide Response Following Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Vaccination in Elderly Individuals.

Antimicrobial peptides are an important component of host defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, the ability of BCG to induce AMPs as part of its mechanism of action has not been investigated in detail. We investigated the impact of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination on circulating plasma levels and TB-antigen stimulated plasma levels of AMPs in a healthy elderly population. We assessed the association of AMPs, including Human Beta Defensin 2 (HBD-2), Human Neutrophil Peptide 1-3 (HNP1-3), Granulysin, and Cathelicidin (LL37), in circulating plasma and TB-antigen stimulated plasma (using IGRA supernatants) at baseline (pre-vaccination) and at Month 1 and Month 6 post vaccination. Post BCG vaccination, both circulating plasma levels and TB-antigen stimulated plasma levels of AMPs significantly increased at Month 1 and Month 6 compared to pre-vaccination levels in the elderly population. However, the association of AMP levels with latent TB (LTB) status did not exhibit statistical significance. Our findings indicate that BCG vaccination is linked to heightened circulating levels of AMPs in the elderly population, which are also TB-antigen-specific. This suggests a potential mechanism underlying the immune effects of BCG in enhancing host defense against TB.

Yak DEFB123 alleviates lung injury caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae through MAPKs signaling pathway

Beta-defensins, such as β-defensin 123 (DEFB123), are vital components of the immune system's defense against infections due to their strong antimicrobial properties and capacity for modulating the body's immunological responses. In this study, we successfully cloned and analyzed the yak DEFB123 gene sequence. Subsequently, we obtained recombinant protein DEFB123 (rDEFB123) through prokaryotic expression. Our results demonstrate that rDEFB123 effectively inhibits the growth of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, rDEFB123 enhances the phagocytic activity of macrophages by regulating specific factors. In a mouse model infected with Klebsiella pneumoniae, the administration of rDEFB123 showed significantly lower levels of serum ALT and AST compared to the control group. Moreover, IFN-γ and IgG were significantly increased in the rDEFB123-treated groups, indicating an enhanced immune response. In the MAPKs signaling pathway of the infected mouse lungs, the expressions of JNK, TRAF2, TRAF6, MIF, and IL-1β genes were downregulated in the rDEFB123-treated groups. Moreover, the levels of p-JNK protein were significantly decreased in these groups as well. Klebsiella pneumoniae caused systemic infection with organ damage in mice. However, the administration of rDEFB123 suppressed the expressions of inflammatory factors, thereby mitigating organ injury and regulating the activity of apoptosis-related factors to enhance immunity. These findings provide valuable theoretical data for future exploration of the functionality and potential applications of DEFB123 in yak.

Diagnostic tests for primary immunodeficiency disorders: Classic and genetic testing.

Primary immunodeficiency diseases encompass a variety of genetic conditions characterized by a compromised immune system and typically results in increased susceptibility to infection. In fact, they also manifest as autoimmunity, autoinflammation, atopic diseases, and malignancy. Currently, the number of recognized monogenic primary immunodeficiency disorders is set at ∼500 different entities, owing to the exponential use of unbiased genetic testing for disease discovery. In addition, the prevalence of secondary immunodeficiency has also been on the rise due to the increased use of immunosuppressive drugs to treat diseases based on immune dysregulation, an increase in the number of individuals undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other chronic medical conditions, including autoimmunity. Although the clinical symptoms of immunodeficiency disorders are broad, an early diagnosis and tailored management strategies are essential to mitigate the risk of infections and prevent disease-associated morbidity. Generally, the medical history and physical examination can provide useful information that can help delineate the possibility of immune defects. In turn, this makes it feasible to select focused laboratory tests that identify immunodeficiency disorders based on the specific immune cells and their functions or products that are affected. Laboratory evaluation involves quantitative and functional classic testing (e.g., leukocyte counts, serum immunoglobulin levels, specific antibody titers in response to vaccines, and enumeration of lymphocyte subsets) as well as genetic testing (e.g., individual gene evaluation via Sanger sequencing or unbiased evaluation based on next-generation sequencing). However, in many cases, a diagnosis also requires additional advanced research techniques to validate genetic or other findings. This article updates clinicians about available laboratory tests for evaluating the immune system in patients with primary immunodeficiency disorders. It also provides a comprehensive list of testing options, organized based on different components of host defense.

Lipid peroxidation – antioxidant defense system in children with seasonal influenza

Introduction. Influenza remains a serious viral infection in children and has consequences for the organism.The aim of the study. To analyze the lipid peroxidation products and antioxidant defense (AOD) components level in children of two age groups with seasonal influenza.Materials and methods. We examined 141 children aged from 1 month to 6 years with a diagnosis of influenza (subgroup 1 – 1 month – 2.11 years (n = 78); subgroup 2 – 3–6 years (n = 63)), 47 children of control group (subgroup 3 – 1 month – 2.11 years (n = 17); subgroup 4 – 3–6 years (n = 30)). Spectrophotometric, fluorometric and statistical methods were used.Results. In subgroup 1 of children with influenza, there were higher levels of compounds with double bonds (p = 0.001), conjugated dienes (CDs) (p < 0.0001), ketodienes and conjugated trienes (KD and CT) (p = 0.004); in subgroup 2 of children with influenza – increased values of CDs (p < 0.0001), KD and CT (p < 0.0001) and thiobarbituric acid reactants (p < 0.0001) compared to the control. The AOD system in subgroup 1 was characterized by a decrease in the level of α-tocopherol (p < 0.0001), retinol (p < 0.0001) and higher oxidized glutathione (GSSG) values (p = 0.002) compared to the control. Children of subgroup 2 had lower values of the level of α-tocopherol (p < 0.001), retinol (p = 0.012) and total antioxidant activity (p < 0.0001) and higher values of GSSG (p = 0.035) compared to the control.Conclusion. In children with influenza, regardless of age, there is a higher level of production of lipid peroxidation indicators, a lack of fat-soluble vitamins and higher values of oxidized glutathione than in healthy children