Decrease In Catalase Activity Research Articles

Assessing salivary innate immune responses in adolescents with dentofacial abnormalities and central precocious puberty

Relevance. Central precocious puberty (CPP), characterized by a high incidence of 60% among endocrinopathies during puberty, significantly influences dentofacial development and the local immune defense mechanisms in adolescents. However, the impact on saliva's innate immune function remains underexplored.This study aims to evaluate the innate immune function of saliva in individuals with CPP coexisting with dentofacial abnormalities.Materials and methods. An analysis of saliva biochemical markers was conducted on 59 adolescents diagnosed with CPP and dentofacial abnormalities, alongside a control group of 21 age-matched individuals with dentofacial abnormalities but without systemic conditions, aged 13-18 years. The evaluation focused on lysozyme and urease levels, dysbiosis markers indicating oral microbiota status, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and catalase activity to gauge the balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant systems, alongside proteolytic enzyme elastase activity.Results. Adolescents with combined CPP and dentofacial abnormalities exhibited weakened antioxidant and antibacterial defenses, evidenced by decreased catalase activity (0.105 ± 0.020 mkat/l, p < 0.001) and lysozyme levels (54.7 ± 3.2 U/l, p < 0.02), against a backdrop of increased lipoperoxidation and microbial contamination (MDA levels at 0.48 ± 0.11 μmol/l, p < 0.05, urease levels at 0.713 ± 0.015 μkat/l, p < 0.01), and heightened inflammation (elastase activity up to 2.71 ± 0.12 μkat/l, p < 0.01).Conclusion. The diminished innate immune function in saliva necessitates the development of strategies to enhance it, serving as a preventive measure against gingivitis in patients with CPP.

Comparative analysis of antioxidant enzyme activity and defence responses in root‐knot nematode resistant and susceptible carrot cultivars

AbstractRoot‐knot nematodes (RKNs) are one of the most serious pests of carrot plants. Resistance cultivars are a cost‐effective and ecofriendly management strategy for nematodes. To develop these, it is essential to understand the genetic, molecular and biochemical aspects underpinning RKN infection. Here, Meloidogyne javanica penetration and development, defence reactions and antioxidant enzyme activity were investigated in a resistant carrot cultivar (TN‐99‐129) compared to the susceptible cultivar TN‐99‐62. No significant difference was found in the number of J2s penetrating the roots of both cultivars. At 2 days post‐inoculation (DPI), necrosis symptoms were observed around the head of penetrated nematodes. Cell death also increased in the roots of the nematode‐infected TN‐99‐129 cultivar. Callose deposition happened at 6 DPI, and lignin content increased with delay (21 DPI) in the inoculated resistant cultivar. In addition, the reactive oxygen species metabolism process in resistant and susceptible cultivars was significantly different. In TN‐99‐129, catalase activity inhibition was observed at the early (2 DPI) phases of infection, and increasing superoxide dismutase activity and a relative decrease in catalase activity during nematode development. The activity of guaiacol peroxidase also increased significantly in the resistant cultivar, but no significant difference was observed in the activity of ascorbate peroxidase. This study explains the process of defence reactions in the TN‐99‐129 carrot cultivar during RKN penetration and development. The exhaustive characterization of the defence mechanism of a novel source of resistance to RKN in carrots constitutes a significant step toward their use in crop breeding.

BIOCHEMICAL RESPONSES IN AGROBACTERIUM-INFECTED OILSEED RAPE EXPLANTS DURING EARLY STAGES OF REGENERATION IN THE PRESENCE OF DITHIOTHREITOL

We investigated the impact of exogenous dithiothreitol on the activities of enzymatic antioxidants ascorbate peroxidase and catalase, and the levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants and osmoprotectant proline, and total soluble sugars in Agrobacterium-infected and non-infected (control) explants of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) after the 3rd and 17th day of in vitro culture. This investigation was conducted with or without dithiothreitol at a concentration of 1 mg/L. Dithiothreitol is a sulphur-containing compound that act as a reducing agent, impacting the redox environment within plant cells. Explants were obtained from six-day-old hypocotyls of the cultivars Ability and Lancia, and infected with Agrobacterium tumefaciens GV3101 carrying the binary vector. The application of dithiothreitol into co-cultivation and regeneration media led to a significant decrease in the activities of ascorbate peroxidase and catalase in both infected and non-infected explants of both cultivars. In contrast, explants regenerated without dithiothreitol exhibited a significant increase in ascorbate peroxidase activity and a decrease in catalase activity, although the decrease in catalase activity was not as pronounced. The proline content increased significantly in all analysed explants, with the highest increase observed in explants regenerated in the presence of dithiothreitol. This suggests that dithiothreitol might indirectly contribute to the reduced formation of reactive oxygen species, which is generally negatively correlated with transformation efficiency.

A Study on the Lateral Channel of Scytalidium Catalase

Catalases are antioxidant enzymes. Their main function is to convert hydrogen peroxide, one of the reactive oxygen species, into water and oxygen. A bifunctional catalase enzyme from Scytalidium thermophilum, which belongs to the monofunctional catalase family, exhibits oxidase activity in the absence of hydrogen peroxide without the need for a cofactor. It is able to oxidize a variety of ortho- and para-diphenolic compounds, but the oxidase activity is very low (~ 10,000-fold) compared to its main activity in peroxide degradation. In this study, an attempt was made to improve the oxidase activity of catalase for its industrial utilization. For this purpose, the residues located in the lateral channel (H214, D224, and K248), which are thought to play an important role in the access of oxidase substances to the active site, were selected and converted into an amino acid with a smaller side chain -Ala- by site-directed mutagenesis. The changes in the catalytic efficiency of the variants were evaluated by spectrophotometric analysis. The results showed that oxidase activity was increased two- to threefold in all variants, while some exhibited decreased catalase activity. The D224A variant gave the best results as it showed approximately 2-fold increase in oxidase activity without loss of catalase activity (about 92% of the wild-type catalase activity was retained). Thus, a protein variant with improved properties was successfully produced.

Sex-specific colonic mitochondrial dysfunction in the indomethacin-induced rat model of inflammatory bowel disease.

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and encompasses Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Women appear to have more severe and recurring symptoms of IBD compared to men, most likely due to hormonal fluctuations. Studies have shown that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a role in the development of inflammation and there is evidence of colon mitochondrial alterations in IBD models and patients. In this study we have identified the presence of sex-specific colon mitochondrial dysfunction in a rat model of IBD. Methods: Eight-week-old male and female rats were treated with indomethacin to induce IBD and mitoTEMPO was administered daily either after or before induction of IBD and until euthanasia. Colons were collected for histology and mitochondrial experiments. Intact mitochondrial respiration, reactive oxygen species (mtROS), the activities of the individual electron transport complexes and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes were measured to assess mitochondrial function. Results: IBD male rats showed a decrease in citrate synthase activity, cardiolipin levels, catalase activity and an increase in mtROS production. IBD females show a decrease in intact colon mitochondrial respiration, colon mitochondria respiratory control ratio (RCR), complex I activity, complex IV activity, and an increase in mtROS. Interestingly, control females showed a significantly higher rate of complex I and II-driven intact mitochondrial respiration, MCFA oxidation, complex II activity, complex III activity, and complex IV activity compared to control males. The use of a mitochondrial-targeted therapy, mitoTEMPO, improved the disease and colon mitochondrial function in female IBD rats. However, in the males there was no observed improvement, likely due to the decrease in catalase activity. Conclusion: Our study provides a better understanding of the role mitochondria in the development of IBD and highlights sex differences in colon mitochondrial function. It also opens an avenue for the development of strategies to re-establish normal mitochondrial function that could provide more options for preventive and therapeutic interventions for IBD.

A novel approach for reducing water stress on sunflower plants by using medicinal plant extracts rather than artificial growth regulators

One of the most significant physiological stressors that negatively impact plants in numerous vital areas of their growth and metabolism is water stress. This study estimates the effects of natural bio-stimulants (Origanum majorana, Nigella sativa and Curcurma longa) extracts for the first time, on water stress of sunflower plant in comparison with synthetic growth regulators (glycein betaine, proline, indole acetic acid, benzyl adenine and ascorbic acid). Water stress appeared to decrease of lengths, fresh and dry weights of shoot and root. Also caused a significant drop in chlorophylls and carotenoids. Foliar application of these synthetic and natural growth regulators significantly decreased the negative effects of drought stress on all studied morphological parameters and pigment contents of sunflower. HPLC analysis of bio-stimulants appeared six phenolic acids, one phenol and two flavonoids were found in all natural extracts. Gallic, rosmarinic, caffeic, syringic acids and kaempferol are the major phenolic compounds (more than 1000 µg/g) detected in Origanum majorana. While gallic acid, hesperetin and ferulic acid are the major phenolic compounds (more than 1000 µg/g) present in Curcurma longa. Chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, catechin, pyro catechol, coffeic acid and rutin are the dominant phenolic compounds present in Nigella sativa. The Nigella sativa treatment showed the highest decrease in proline levels. This may be due to the high concentration of caffeic acid (2406.97 g/g). The Origanum majorana treatment had the highest levels of chl. a and carotenoid contents, which rose by about 32% and 72%, respectively, compared to the stress-treated plant. The highly decrease in catalase activity, which is considered as most important indicator to water stress, appeared in Origanum majorana treatment. We suggest the use of these natural extracts as an alternative way, which appeared a significant increase in growth and biochemical near to synthetic regulators in the treatment of water stress due to the fact that these extracts contain many important phenolic compounds that have a role in the treatment of water stress.

Does the anesthetic tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222) distort oxidative status parameters in tadpoles?

The effect of anesthesia/euthanasia with ethyl 3-aminobenzoate methanesulfonate (MS-222) on the oxidative status of Hyla arborea tadpoles was examined to determine whether the use of the anesthetic can confound the experimental results of the oxidative stress-based investigation. The experiment was conducted on two groups of tadpoles reared at different temperatures to produce differences in antioxidant capacity between the groups. After development at different temperatures (20 °C and 25 °C), the animals were exposed to different concentrations of MS-222 (0, 0.1, 1, and 5 g/L) for 15 min. The higher temperature decreased catalase activity, glutathione and protein carbonyl levels and increased glutathione reductase activity. The glutathione level and glutathione/thiol-related parameters were significantly changed after MS-222 exposure. However, individuals from the different temperature groups responded differently to the tested anesthetic, pointing to the possible influence of the initial levels of antioxidant capacity. The analysis of the interaction between the factors (temperature and MS-222) confirmed that the anesthetic can confound the results regarding the effects of temperature on the oxidative status parameters. The concentration of 0.1 g/L MS-222 had the lowest influence on the alterations in oxidative status and the results of the effect of temperature. A brief review of the current literature on the use of MS-222 in tadpoles made clear the absence of precise information on anesthetic concentration and exposure time. Similar studies should be repeated and extended to other amphibian species and other factors of interest to provide better guidance on tadpole anesthesia/euthanasia for future experiments that consider oxidative status parameters.

In Vitro Filaricidal Properties of Aqueous Extracts of Combretum nigricans (Combretaceae) on Onchocerca ochengi (Onchocercidae).

Onchocerciasis is an endemic parasitic disease in sub-Saharan Africa that significantly impacts animal and human health. In Northern Cameroon, medicinal plants from the Combretum genus are used for onchocerciasis traditional treatment although there is no scientific evidence of their antifilarial potential. This study evaluates the in vitro macro- and microfilaricidal properties of water extracts from Combretum nigricans in Onchocerca ochengi. Material and Methods. O. ochengi microfilariae and adult male worms were recovered from cowhide fragments. Oxidative stress indicators and motility tests were used to assess the filaricidal impact. Female albino rats were used to test for acute toxicity. The contents of secondary metabolites were quantified. The bark aqueous extract was more active on macrofilariae at 1 mg/mL for 24 h (100%) than the leaf (63.9%) and root (75%) extracts at the same concentration. Likewise, a stronger microfilaricidal effect was found with this extract at 0.5 mg/mL for 1 h (100%) compared to root and leaf extracts. The dose-response effect with the bark extract gave an inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) of 351 μg/mL vs. 113 μg/mL for flubendazole after 24 h incubation, while the microfilaricidal efficacy revealed an IC50 of 158.7 μg/mL vs. 54.09 μg/mL for ivermectin after one-hour incubation. Examining stress indicators on parasite homogenates showed that macrofilaricidal activity is associated with a significant increase in nitric oxide, glutathione, and malondialdehyde generation and a decrease in catalase activity. At 2000 mg/kg, rats showed no harm. The phytochemical investigation revealed that the barks contained more phenolic acids, condensed tannins, flavonoids, and saponins than the leaves (p < 0.001). These findings support C. nigricans' antifilarial activity and identify oxidative stress indicators as prospective treatment targets in O. ochengi. It would be interesting to conduct in vivo studies to understand their antifilarial activity better.

Influence of Long-Term Anti-Seizure Medications on Redox Parameters in Human Blood.

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease affecting millions of people worldwide, but little is known about the impact of anti-seizure medications on redox homeostasis. This study aimed to compare the effects of the long-term use of oral anti-seizure medications in monotherapy (lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and valproate) on antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, haemoglobin, and methaemoglobin content in erythrocytes, and concentrations of total proteins and thiols, nitrites, lipid peroxides and total glutathione in the plasma of epilepsy patients and drug-naïve patients. The results showed that lamotrigine therapy led to lower superoxide dismutase activity (p < 0.005) and lower concentrations of total thiols (p < 0.01) and lipid peroxides (p < 0.01) compared to controls. On the other hand, therapy with carbamazepine increased nitrite levels (p < 0.01) but reduced superoxide dismutase activity (p < 0.005). In the valproate group, only a decrease in catalase activity was observed (p < 0.005). Canonical discriminant analysis showed that the composition of antioxidant enzymes in erythrocytes was different for both the lamotrigine and carbamazepine groups, while the controls were separated from all others. Monotherapy with anti-seizure medications discretely alters redox homeostasis, followed by distinct relationships between antioxidant components.

Study of the state of intermediate metabolism and antiradical defense of the body of meat quail during the elimination of mycotoxin

In the last decade, a new promising direction to reduce the risk of T-2 toxicosis at domestic poultry enterprises has been the rational use of antioxidants in the formulation of compound feeds. The purpose of the research is to determine the effect of the antioxidants santoquin (santoquin) and vitamin E in the composition of feed based on wheat grain, sorghum and rapeseed meal with a tolerant level of T-2 toxin on the state of intermediate metabolism and anti-radical protection of the body of meat quails. We have substantiated new data on the advisability of jointly introducing the antioxidants santoquin at a dose of 150 g/t and vitamin E at a dose of 25 thousand IU/t of feed into the composition of feed based on wheat grain, sorghum and rapeseed meal with a tolerant level of T-2 toxin to optimize the meat quail hematopoietic function of the body. The tested antioxidants, when fed in combination, contributed to the improvement of protein, carbohydrate, lipid and mineral metabolism in quails of the 3rd experimental group. Due to the synergistic effect of antioxidants in the composition of diets, an increase in protective functions in the body of quails of the 3rd experimental group was noted due to an increase in lysozyme activity in blood samples by 3,00% (P&gt;0,95) and bactericidal activity - by 8,30% (P&gt;0,95) than in the control group. While ensuring better detoxification of T-2 toxin in comparison with control analogues, meat quails of the 3rd experimental group improved the antioxidant defense of the body due to an increase in the enzymatic activity of glutathione reductase in the blood by 25,34% (P&gt;0,95), alkaline phosphatase - by 18,34% (P&gt;0,95) with a parallel decrease in catalase activity - by 9,54% (P&gt;0,95), the level of conjugated dienes - by 2,28 times (P&gt;0,95) and malondialdehyde - by 1,33 times (P&gt;0,95).

Studies on bioaccumulation patterns, biochemical and genotoxic effects of copper on freshwater fish, Catla catla: an in vivo analysis.

During present study, the copper (Cu) mediated oxidative stress was measured that induced DNA damage by concentrating in the tissues of fish, Catla catla (14.45±1.24g; 84.68±1.45mm) (Hamilton,1822). Fish fingerlings were retained in 5 groups for 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84 days of the exposure period. They were treated with 2/3, 1/3, 1/4 and 1/5 (T1-T4) of 96h lethal concentration of copper. Controls were run along with all the treatments for the same durations. A significant (p < 0.05) dose and time dependent concentration of Cu was observed in the gills, liver, kidney, muscles, and brain of C. catla. Among organs, the liver showed a significantly higher concentration of Cu followed by gills, kidney, brain, and muscles. Copper accumulation in these organs caused a significant variation in the activities of enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD). The SOD activity varied significantly in response to the exposure time of Cu as 56 > 70 > 42 > 84 > 28 > 14 days while CAT activity exhibited an inverse relationship with the increase in Cu concentration. POD activity showed a significant rise with an increase in Cu exposure duration. Comet assay exhibited significant DNA damage in the peripheral erythrocytes of Cu exposed C. catla. Among four exposure concentrations, 2/3rd of LC50 (T1) caused significantly higher damage to the nuclei compared to control. Increased POD and SOD activity, as well as a decrease in CAT activity in response to Cu, demonstrates the involvement of a protective mechanism against reactive oxygen species (ROS), whereas increased ROS resulted in higher DNA damage. These above-mentioned molecular markers can be efficiently used for the biomonitoring of aquatic environments and conservation of edible fish fauna.

Thymol, a bioactive component of ocimum gratissimum linn. leaf ameliorated diabetes-induced exocrine pancreas insufficiency in male wistar rats

Background and aims: Exocrine pancreas insufficiency characterized by decreased pancreatic enzyme activity is one of the conditions associated with prolonged diabetes mellitus. Anti-diabetic activity of Ocimum gratissimum linn. leaf in experimental animals is well documented and using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy analysis, thymol has been identified as one of its bioactive components. This study investigated the effect of thymol on pancreatic alpha amylase activities and oxidative stress biomarkers in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats grouped into four as Control, THY, DIA, and DIA+THY were used. Animals in DIA and DIA+THY were diabetic orally administered distilled water and thymol (20 mg/kg), respectively, while control and THY were normal rats treated similarly for 14 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), liver function, lipid profile, and oxidative stress biomarkers were determined in the blood while the pancreas was obtained for amylase activities. Results: Thymol treatment in the DIA+THY decreased FBG (119.75 ± 20.10 mg/dl), cholesterol (129.22 ± 8.34 mg/dl), triglycerides (116.41 ± 8.34 mg/dl), and low-density lipoprotein (101.89 ± 8.28 mg/dl) when compared with the DIA (209.25 ± 46.88 mg/dl, 156.31 ± 16.21 mg/dl, 143.13 ± 14.81 mg/dl, and 131.23 ± 13.38 mg/dl, respectively). Increased alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase observed in DIA were reversed in the Dia+THY. Pancreatic amylase activity was reduced in DIA (3.01 ± 0.50 Activity/mg.protein) compared with control (6.4 ± 0.42 Activity/mg.protein) and this was increased in DIA+THY (6.73 ± 0.39 Activity/mg.protein) relative to DIA. Increased plasma malondialdehyde and decreased catalase activity were observed in the DIA group and these were reversed in the DIA+THY group Conclusions: Thymol has hypoglycemic properties and stimulates pancreatic alpha-amylase activity through a mechanism that may be linked to its antioxidant properties.

IMPACT OF CHEMOTHERAPY ON PROOXIDANT-ANTIOXIDANT STATUS IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE MYELOMA AND CONCOMITANT CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Introduction. Multiple myeloma, an oncopathology that remains challenging to treat, is characterized by a 54% 5-year survival rate despite advancements in modern treatment strategies. Numerous studies have substantiated the correlation between high prooxidant concentrations and the progression of multiple myeloma. This progression is often associated with alterations in antioxidant defense mechanisms. Patients with coronary artery disease also experience changes in their antioxidant defense that may enhance the deleterious effects of active oxygen species and elevate the risk of chemotherapy-related organotoxic effects.&#x0D; The aim of this study is to investigate the specificities of the prooxidant-antioxidant status in patients with multiple myeloma and concomitant coronary artery disease during chemotherapy.&#x0D; Materials and methods. 42 patients with multiple myeloma were examined, 22 (52,5%) of them had concomitant coronary artery disease. According to the coronary artery disease, patients with multiple myeloma were divided into two groups. All patients obtain standard chemotherapy schemes. Assessment of the patients was performed four times: before and after the 1st and 5th chemotherapy course. TBA-reactants and catalase activity were measured in blood serum.&#x0D; Results. Both in I and II group of patients, TBA-reactants concentration in blood serum was increased in 1.85 (р1&lt;0,0001) and in 2.35 (р1&lt;0,0001) times respectively compare to healthy people before chemotherapy. Although in the patients with concomitant coronary artery disease TBA-reactants concentration in blood serum was increased in 1,28 (р2&lt;0,0001) times compare to I group of patients. Simultaneously in II group of patients catalase activity was decreased in 1.28 (р4 &lt;0,0001) times compare to healthy people and in 1,37 (р5 &lt;0,0001) times compare to I group patients. Before the second course of chemotherapy in II group of patients, TBA-reactants level was increased in 1.03 (р&lt;0.05) times compared to the first examination and in 1.27 (р&lt;0.05) times compared to I group. In II group of patients, catalase activity was decreased in 1.24 (р&lt;0.05) times compared to the first examination and in 1.38 (р&lt;0.001) times compared to the II group. In II group of patients level of TBA-reactants was decreased in 1,13 (p&lt;0,01) times compare to the first examination, but it was in 1,17(р&lt;0,05) higher than TBA-reactants level in I group. Simultaneously catalase activity was decreased in 1.4 (р&lt;0.05) times compare to the first examination.&#x0D; Conclusions. The progression of multiple myeloma is marked by the development of a prooxidant-antioxidant imbalance. In both the I and II patient groups, the level of TBA-reactants increased significantly by 1.85 (p&lt;0.0001) and 2.35 (p&lt;0.0001) times, respectively, compared to the reference value. The presence of concomitant coronary artery disease in multiple myeloma patients led to a 1.28-fold elevation in TBA-reactants levels (p&lt;0.0001) compared to those without cardiovascular diseases. Simultaneously, catalase activity decreased by 1.37 times (p&lt;0.0001) compared to patients without cardiovascular diseases.&#x0D; During chemotherapy, a progressive increase in the prooxidant-antioxidant imbalance was observed in multiple myeloma patients. This was evidenced by a 1.4-fold decrease in catalase activity (p&lt;0.05) compared to the initial examination.

Various green manure-fertilizer combinations affect the soil microbial community and function in immature red soil.

Green manure application is a common practice to improve soil fertility in China. However, the impact of different green manure-fertilizer combinations on the soil microbial communities in the low-fertility immature red soil in southern China remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a pot experiment using two common green manure crops, ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and Chinese milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L.), along with a fallow treatment. We also considered three combined fertilizer management strategies, including mineral, humic acid, and organic manure fertilizers. We evaluated the soil microbial biomass, activity, communities, functional prediction and their correlation with soil properties during green manure growth and incorporation periods, to assess the potential alterations caused by different green manure and fertilizer combinations. Our findings indicate that green manure application, particularly in combination with organic fertilizers, increased the alpha diversity of the soil bacterial community, while the opposite trend was observed in the fungal community. The application of green manure altered the soil microbial communities during both growth and incorporation periods, especially the taxa that participate in carbon, nitrogen and sulfur cycles. Notably, ryegrass significantly increased the relative abundance of bacterial phylum Firmicutes and fungal phylum Ascomycota, whereas Chinese milk vetch significantly stimulated the bacterial phylum Acidobacteria and fungal phylum Glomeromycota. Compared with fallow treatments, green manure application significantly increased the soil pH by 4.1%-12.4%, and microbial biomass carbon by 29.8%-72.9%, regardless of the types of combined fertilizer. Additionally, the application of green manure resulted in a 35.6%-142.6% increase in urease activity and a 65.9%-172.9% increase in β-glucosidase activity compared to fallow treatments, while led to a 22.5%-55.6% decrease in catalase activity. Further analysis revealed that the changes in both bacterial and fungal communities positively correlated with soil pH, soil organic matter, total nitrogen and alkali hydrolyzed nitrogen contents. Moreover, the relationship between the soil microbial community and soil enzyme activities was regulated by the specific green manure species. In conclusion, our results provide insight into the effects of different green manure-fertilizer combinations on soil microorganisms and their underlying mechanisms in improving soil fertility in the low-fertility immature red soil.

PSIV-11 The Effects of Vanillic Acid Supplementation During in Vitro Oocyte Maturation in Pigs

Abstract In vitro fertilization (IVF) typically has low success rates in pigs partially due to the negative effects of oxidative stress on both the sperm and egg. Antioxidants, such as vanillic acid, are known to have protective effects on the oocyte in terms of maturation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of vanillic acid supplementation during porcine oocyte maturation on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, IVF, early embryonic development success rates, membrane lipid peroxidation, and catalase activity. Oocytes were matured for 40 to 44 h supplemented with vanillic acid (0, 3, 6, 12 mg/mL; Sigma-Aldrich Co.). After maturation, oocytes were denuded and either evaluated for ROS production (n = 183, r = 3) by measuring the fluorescent intensity from the oxidation of 2’,7’-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate, membrane lipid peroxidation (n = 360), catalase activity (n = 724), or fertilized using frozen-thawed boar semen (1.0 x 105 sperm cells/mL) and co-incubated for 6 to 8 h followed by embryo culture for 144 h. After IVF, presumptive zygotes were fixed, permeabilized, and stained with bisBenzimide H 33342 trihydrochloride and evaluated for penetration, polyspermy, and pronucleus formation rates (n = 390) and embryos were evaluated for cleavage and blastocyst formation (n = 529) at 48 h and 144 h post-IVF, respectively. Fluorescent intensities indicating ROS of individual oocytes, lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, and were analyzed using GLM, and means were compared using LSD. The IVF and embryo development data were reported as the percent observed/drop, and mean percentages, and means were analyzed using a GLM with differences being compared using Tukey’s test. Supplementation of 6 g/mL vanillic acid or 12 mg/mL vanillic acid reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the amount of ROS (0.68 ± 0.06, 0.63 ± 0.06; respectively) compared with no vanillic acid supplementation (1 ± 0.06). Vanillic acid supplementation did not have any effect on oocyte penetration rates; however both 6 mg/mL and 12 mg/mL vanillic acid decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) polyspermic penetration rates (23.79 ± 0.02, 24.03 ± 0.02; respectively), and increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) pronuclear formation (83.76 ± 0.02, 84.80 ± 0.02; respectively). Supplementation of vanillic acid had no effect on cleavage rates (78.69 ± 0.02) by 48 h post-IVF or blastocyst formation (31.18 ± 0.03) by 144 h post-IVF. Supplementation of 6 mg/mL vanillic acid decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) membrane lipid peroxidation (0.46 ± 0.06) and catalase activity (0.01 ± 0.01) compared with no vanillic acid supplementation (0.79 ± 0.06, 0.03 ± 0.01; respectively). Based on these results, supplementation of 6 mg/mL vanillic acid or 12 mg/mL vanillic acid during oocyte maturation reduces the amount of ROS formed in vitro and improves IVF success rates. Supplementation of 6 mg/mL decreases catalase activity and membrane lipid oxidation following oocyte maturation.

Exploring the Anti-Cancer Properties of Pomegranate Peel Aqueous Extract

The objective of this work is to evaluate the influence of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) in the behavior of breast cell lines (epithelial and tumor type) and related oxidative metabolism. Fruit-based functional foods have been the target of increasing scientific research for their physiological and pathophysiological properties. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a suitable example with both prophylactic and medicinal effects. MCF-7 cell line from tumor breast carcinoma, and MCF-10A cell line from normal epithelial mammary gland were used and subjected to different concentrations of PPE, ranging from 1 to 5 mM of gallic acid equivalents (GAE). Viability, proliferation, mobility, and cytotoxicity assays were performed along with the quantification of antioxidant enzymes, namely, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione. We observed a decrease in viability and proliferation of MCF-7 cells, at higher concentrations of PPE, with no influence in epithelial cells. Interestingly, in a concentration-dependent manner, PPE triggered a significant decrease in migration on both cell lines, with a more pronounced effect in breast cancer cell line. Regarding antioxidant enzyme activity, on tumor cells higher concentrations of PPE decreased catalase activity and significantly increased SOD activity. Regarding GSH and GSSG, we observed different expression levels between MCF-7 and MCF-10A, with MCF-7 presenting lower levels compared to MCF-10A. GSH/GSSG ratio was notably higher in MCF-7 at 5 mM GAE. PPE exhibits anti-tumor effects without significantly affecting normal epithelial cells. Our work strengthens the potential antitumoral effect of PPE by reducing MCF-7 cell viability and proliferation through the imbalance of antioxidant enzymes.

Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Oxidative Stress in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the effects of Zn supplementation on oxidative stress by evaluating changes in serum Copper (Cu) to Zinc (Zn) ratio, homocysteine (hCys), Glutathione (GSH), Total Bilirubin (TB) and Catalase (CAT) activity in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Seventy-seven HD patients were enrolled in a multicenter simple-blind randomized clinical trial. Only 37 HD patients completed the study. They were randomly divided into two groups and supplemented with zinc sulfate (n = 17) or placebo (n = 20) for two months. Serum Zn and Cu were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Serum hCys was measured by immunology method, serum GSH and CAT activity were assessed by spectrophotometry method and TB was measured by colorimetric method. Determinations were performed before and after supplementation. Findings: After zinc supplementation, serum Zn, serum GSH, and Serum Total Bilirubin (STB) significantly increased. Serum Cu to Zn ratio, serum hCys, and CAT activity significantly decreased in the Zn Zn-supplemented group. Conclusion: Zinc supplementation increased serum antioxidant factors such as Zn, GSH, and bilirubin and decreased serum oxidative factors such as copper to zinc ratio, hCys, and decreased CAT activity. The study results suggest that zinc supplementation may be a useful tool for the improvement of oxidative stress in HD patients.

Transcriptomic analysis reveals the immune response mechanisms of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus under noise stress from offshore wind turbine

As an important form of renewable energy, offshore wind power can effectively reduce dependence on traditional energy sources and decrease carbon emissions. However, operation of wind turbines can generate underwater noise that may have negative impacts on marine benthic organisms in the surrounding area. Sea cucumbers are slow-moving invertebrates that inhabit the ocean, relying on their immune system to adapt to their environment. To evaluate the frequency range of characteristic noise produced by offshore wind turbines, we conducted a field survey. Additionally, we utilized sea cucumbers in simulated experiments to assess their response to the noise produced by offshore wind turbines. We established a control group, a low-frequency noise group simulating offshore wind turbine noise at 125 Hz and 250 Hz, and a high-frequency noise group at 2500 Hz, each lasting for 7 days. Results from measuring immune enzyme activity in the coelomic fluid suggest that noise can reduce the activity of superoxide dismutase enzymes, which may make sea cucumbers more susceptible to oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Exposure to low-frequency noise can have the effect of diminishing the activity of catalase, and this decrease in catalase activity could potentially increase the susceptibility of the sea cucumber's coelom to inflammation. In order to elucidate the hypothetical mechanism of immune response, intestinal tissue was extracted for transcriptome sequencing. The results showed that under 125 Hz low-frequency noise stress, the number of differentially expressed genes was the highest, reaching 1764. Under noise stress, sea cucumber's cell apoptosis and cell motility are reduced, interfering with lipid metabolism process and membrane synthesis. This research provides theoretical support for the environmental safety assessment of offshore wind power construction.

Chronic Oral Administration of Aluminum Hydroxide Stimulates Systemic Inflammation and Redox Imbalance in BALB/c Mice.

The present study is aimed at investigating the long-term effects of the aluminum hydroxide administration in the small intestine, lung, liver, and kidney of male BALB/c mice. The mice received via orogastric gavage phosphate buffered or 10 mg/kg aluminum hydroxide 3 times a week for 6 months. Administration of aluminum hydroxide decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte. In the blood, kidney and liver function markers were evaluated, and long-term administration of aluminum hydroxide led to an increase in AST levels and a decrease in urea levels. The animals exposed to aluminum showed higher lipid and protein oxidation in all the organs analyzed. In relation to the enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, the lungs showed lower superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity and a lower reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio. In the liver, aluminum administration led to a decrease in catalase activity and the GSH/GSSG ratio. Lower catalase activity was observed in the small intestine, as well as in the lungs and liver. In addition to alterations in antioxidant defense, increased levels of the chemokine CCL-2 were observed in the lungs, lower levels of IL-10 in the liver and small intestine, and decreased levels of IL-6 in the intestine of the animals that received aluminum hydroxide for 6 months. Long-term exposure to aluminum promoted steatosis in the liver. In the kidneys, mice treated with aluminum presented a decreased glomerular density than in the naive control group. In the small intestine, exposure caused villi shortening. Our results indicate that long-term oral administration of aluminum hydroxide provokes systemic histological damage, inflammation, and redox imbalance.

GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE EFFECT OF ANTIULCER DRUGS AND PLACENTA CRYOEXTRACT ON THE INTENSITY OF LIPID PEROXIDATION AND THE ACTIVITY OF THE ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM IN EXPERIMENTAL HEPATITIS WITH ETHANOL-INDUCED CIRRHOSIS

Introduction. It is well recognized that drug metabolism products in the liver can induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to the development of hepatocellular injury. As a potential agent capable of counteracting the hepatotoxic effects of drugs, we focused our attention on a domestic biotechnological preparation – cryopreserved placental extract (CPE).&#x0D; The aim. To characterize gender differences in the effect of esomeprazole, clarithromycin, metronidazole (E/C/M), and CPE on the intensity of lipid peroxidation and the activity of the antioxidant system in tetrachloromethane (CCl4) hepatitis with a background of ethanol-induced cirrhosis (ETCM).&#x0D; Materials and methods. The study was conducted with varying levels of sex hormones on 112 male and female rats. Chronic ETCM was induced by administering a 50.0% oil solution of CCl4 at a dose of 8 ml/kg body weight of the animals twice a week, in combination with a 5.0% ethanol solution for drinking over a period of 45 days. The content of TBA-RP in liver homogenates was determined spectrophotometrically by the method described by Asakawa T. et al. Catalase activity in liver homogenates was determined spectrophotometrically according to the method of Korolyuk M.A. and co-authors.&#x0D; Results. The most pronounced increase in lipid peroxidation processes was observed in females with chronic ETCM-induced liver damage and administration of antiulcer drugs following ovariectomy, resulting in a TBA-RS content of 36.1±2.79 μmol/kg of tissue. Administration of E/C/M in animals with chronic liver damage led to a suppression of the antioxidant system, as evidenced by a decrease in catalase activity in liver tissues.&#x0D; Conclusion. The combined use of anti-ulcer drugs and CPE on the background of chronic ETCM mitigated the activation of lipid peroxidation processes, which was indicated by a statistically significant (p &lt; 0.001) 2.7-fold lower content of TBA-RP in liver homogenates. Additionally, it was established that the administration of CPE was accompanied by a statistically significant increase in catalase activity in females, more prominently than in males. In females without changes in hormonal status, the introduction of CPE resulted in a growth (p &lt; 0.001) of catalase activity by 75.0%, with the most significant increase observed in females after ovariectomy – catalase activity statistically significantly (p &lt; 0.001) increased by 2.6 times compared to the indicators of females not administered with CPE. The administration of CPE in female rats without altering hormonal status was accompanied by a twofold (p &lt; 0.01) increase in the antioxidant-prooxidant index compared to male rats, indicating more pronounced antioxidant properties of CPE in female rats.