Enhanced Antioxidant Enzyme Activities Research Articles

Therapeutic potential of mackerel-derived peptides and the synthetic tetrapeptide TVGF for sleep disorders in a light-induced anxiety zebrafish model

IntroductionAnxiety-like insomnia is a known risk factor for the onset and worsening of certain neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Due to the adverse effects of current anti-insomnia medications, such as drug dependence and limited safety, researchers are actively exploring natural bioactive compounds to mitigate anxiety-like insomnia with fewer side effects. Mackerel (Pneumatophorus japonicus), a traditional Chinese medicine, is known for its tonic effects and is commonly used to treat neurasthenia. The use of mackerel protein extract has been shown to effectively improve symptoms of light-induced anxiety-like insomnia in a zebrafish model.MethodsThis study examines the effects of mackerel bone peptides (MW < 1 kDa, MBP1) and the synthetic peptide Thr-Val-Gly-Phe (TVGF) on light-induced anxiety-like insomnia in zebrafish. The evaluation is conducted through behavioral observation, biochemical marker analysis, and gene transcriptome profiling.ResultsMBP1 significantly alleviated abnormal hyperactivity and restored neurotransmitter levels (dopamine and γ-aminobutyric acid) to normal. Moreover, it mitigated oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species production and malonaldehyde levels, while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase). This was further attributed to the regulation of lipid accumulation and protein homeostasis. Furthermore, MBP1 ameliorated sleep disturbances primarily by restoring normal expression levels of genes involved in circadian rhythm (per2 and sik1) and visual function (opn1mw2, zgc:73075, and arr3b). Molecular docking analysis indicated that TVGF exhibited good affinity for receptors linked to sleep disturbances, including IL6, HTR1A, and MAOA. TVGF exhibited sedative effects in behavioral assays, mainly mediated by regulating the normal expression of genes associated with circadian rhythm (cry1bb, cry1ba, per2, per1b and sik1), visual function (opn1mw1, gnb3b, arr3b, gnat2), purine metabolism (pnp5a), and stress recovery (fkbp5).DiscussionThese findings suggest that MBP1 and TVGF could be promising therapies for light-induced anxiety-like insomnia in humans, offering safer alternatives to current medications. Additionally, the regulation of genes related to circadian rhythm and visual perception may be a key mechanism by which MBP1 and TVGF effectively relieve anxiety-like insomnia.

The Optimum Mixed Cropping Ratio of Oat and Alfalfa Enhanced Plant Growth, Forage Yield, and Forage Quality in Saline Soil

The forage shortage is more aggravating than ever before, with husbandry development accelerating and meat and dairy product demand increasing. Salinized soils are important reserve land encouraged to be used for forage production in China. However, the salt-tolerant cultivation techniques for forage crops are still inadequate. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to study the effects of the mixed cropping ratio of oat and alfalfa on plant growth and physiological traits, forage yield, and forage quality in saline soils. Oat (Avena sativa L.) variety of Canadian Monopoly and alfalfa variety of WL525HQ were used, and five mixed cropping ratios (T1 = 100% oat + 0% alfalfa, CK, T2 = 75% oat + 25% alfalfa, T3 = 50% oat + 50% alfalfa, T4 = 25% oat + 75% alfalfa, and T5 = 0% oat + 100% alfalfa) were evaluated. The results showed that plant height, chlorophyll, soluble sugar, starch, antioxidant enzymes, and crude fat were increased firstly and then decreased prominently with decreased oats and increased alfalfa sowing rate; the maximum values showed under T2 but the minimum value under T5 at evaluated growth periods. On the contrary, malondialdehyde and acid detergent fiber were significantly decreased and then increased; the lowest contents were recorded under T2 and highest under T5. Furthermore, the relative growth rate, forage yield, neutral detergent fiber, and crude ash were decreased prominently with decreased oats and increased alfalfa sowing rate, and the highest and lowest values showed under T1 and T5, respectively. Oppositely, the contents of sucrose, proline, N, P, K, relative feeding value, and crude protein were all increased, with the highest contents generated under T2 and the lowest under T1. On the whole, the mixed cropping treatment of T2 showed the best performance in improving both biomass yield and forage quality by enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, osmotic regulatory substances, and nutrient uptake and utilization. Therefore, this study indicates that 75% oat mixed cropping with 25% alfalfa can be recommended as a salt-tolerant cultivation technique for forage high-yield and high-quality production in moderately saline soil.

Application of hydrogen-rich water maintains red pitaya fruit quality through regulation of ROS and energy metabolism

Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) treatment has been shown to enhance the shelf life of fruit and vegetables. This study aimed to investigate the effects of HRW on improving the quality of red pitaya and its underlying regulatory mechanisms. The results revealed that applying HRW at a 70% concentration reduced decay and weight loss rates, slowed the respiratory rate, and delayed the decline in titratable acidity and total soluble solids. Additionally, HRW treatment mitigated the increase in superoxide anion production and hydrogen peroxide levels, while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expression, including those of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, and glutathione reductase. Non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds such as ascorbate and glutathione also increased. Moreover, RT-qPCR analysis showed that HRW treatment upregulated HcMYB6 and downregulated HcR2R3MYB. Dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that HcMYB6 activated the expression of HcSOD and HcCAT, whereas HcR2R3MYB repressed their expression. These findings suggest that HcMYB6 and HcR2R3MYB may be involved in reactive oxygen species metabolism, with HcMYB6 being induced and HcR2R3MYB inhibited by HRW treatment. Furthermore, HRW treatment led to increased adenosine triphosphate and adenosine diphosphate levels, a decrease in adenosine monophosphate content, and elevated gene expression and activity of Ca2⁺-ATPase, succinate hydrogenase, H⁺-ATPase, and cytochrome C. Collectively, these results demonstrate that HRW treatment effectively reduces oxidative damage and improves energy status, thereby preserving the quality of red pitaya fruit.

Antioxidant anthocyanin synergistic immune enhancer nanopeptide C-I20 remarkably enhances the protective effect of largemouth bass against largemouth bass ranavirus

Largemouth bass ranavirus (LMBV) infection results in huge economic losses in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) industry. Nanopeptide C-I20 and anthocyanins have a positive effect on promoting immune responses and antioxidant mechanisms in several aquatic organisms, and are therefore used to inhibit LMBV infection. In this study, we developed an LMBV immersion challenge model using three different viral concentrations (1×104 copies/mL, 1×105 copies/mL, and 1×106 copies/mL) to infect largemouth bass, and LMBV-MCP mRNA expression was detected in infected fish. Following infection, the fish exhibited severe external ulceration, redness swelling, and darkening of the skin. Histopathological examination revealed significant necrosis and inflammation in muscle tissue, epithelial cell shedding in renal tubules, macrophage aggregation centers and cellular vacuolization in spleen and head kidney, and cellular hypertrophy in liver. To mitigate LMBV infection, we explored the protective effects of a combined treatment strategy involving C-I20 and anthocyanin. Overall, the combination of anthocyanin and C-I20 demonstrated the highest protective efficacy, significantly reducing viral loads in muscle, liver, spleen, and head kidney. Moreover, this treatment regimen enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (T-AOC, TSOD, GSH-Px, CAT) and modulated important immune genes (IL-1, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-10, Mx, and IgM) expression. In conclusion, the synergistic application of anthocyanin and C-I20 demonstrates significant efficacy in mitigating LMBV infection. This research introduces a novel and promising approach to managing infectious diseases in aquaculture settings.

Folic Acid - Based Hydrogels Co-assembled with Protocatechuic Acid for Enhanced Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presents a significant therapeutic challenge due to the need for oral drug delivery systems that withstand acidic environment of stomach while effectively targeting intestinal inflammation. To address this issue, we created a novel hydrogel system based on a folic acid (FA)-dopamine (DA) conjugate, co-assembled with protocatechuic acid (PCA), to form F-DP hydrogels. These hydrogels demonstrated robust anti-gastric acid, mucosal adhesive, and injectable properties, enhancing their efficacy for targeted delivery. In DSS-induced colitis mouse models, treatment with F-DP hydrogels resulted in significant therapeutic improvements, including increased body weight, reduced disease activity index (DAI), and maintained colon length. Biochemical assays revealed that F-DP hydrogels significantly enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH and SOD) and reduced oxidative stress markers (NO and MDA). Histological assessments confirmed effective repair of the colonic mucosal barrier, restoration of tight junction protein ZO-1, and reduction of inflammatory lesions. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining indicated that F-DP hydrogels facilitated macrophages polarization from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Our study demonstrates that F-DP hydrogels show significant potential for improving IBD treatment through enhanced gastric resistance, intestinal adhesion, and synergistic anti-inflammatory effects, warranting further investigation for clinical applications.

Mung Bean Functional Protein Enhances Endothelial Function via Antioxidant Activity and Inflammation Modulation in Middle-Aged Adults: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial

This study examines the impact of mung bean (Vigna radiata) protein consumption on endothelial function in middle-aged adults, focusing on antioxidant enzyme activity and anti-inflammatory markers. Mung beans have shown promise in enhancing cardiovascular function, lowering blood pressure, and improving lipid profiles, but the underlying mechanisms of these functions remain unclear. Conducted as a three-arm randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, this study involved male and female participants aged 45 to 60 and assigned them to consume either a placebo or a mung bean functional drink containing 10 or 15 g of mung bean protein daily for six weeks. Vasodilation was assessed using flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzyme activity, and inflammatory markers were measured at baseline and after the intervention. The results indicate that six weeks of mung bean consumption significantly benefits healthy middle-aged adults by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and reducing inflammatory mediators’ expression. Additionally, the increase in brachial artery diameter following FMD indicates improved endothelial function.

Response mechanisms of Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) to cold, drought, combined stresses and recovery in morphology, photosynthesis, physiology and microstructure

Drought and cold stresses co-occur in nature, and significantly limited agricultural productivity in northwest China. Their effects on plant photosynthesis, physiology and biochemistry, and microstructure have been extensively studied, but their combined stress mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, growth chamber experiments were conducted using the Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) with the ‘HZ’ and ‘ZQ’ germplasms, our goal was to clarify the responses of leaves to cold (C), drought (D), and combined (D&C) stresses in the morphology, photosynthesis, physiology and biochemistry, and microstructure. The results showed that three stress types significantly suppressed growth, reduced photosynthetic pigments, photosynthetic capacity, and photosynthetic enzyme activities, with ‘ZQ’ being more sensitive than ‘HZ’. C stress (12/36 h) improved chlorophyll fluorescence parameters in ‘HZ’ (except for photochemical quenching coefficient), while D and D&C stresses diminished these parameters of both germplasms. Under single and combined stresses, leaf thickness and cuticle thickness generally increased then decreased with stress duration, except for ‘ZQ’ under D stress. D stress increased reactive oxygen species, relative conductivity, malondialdehyde content and stomatal density, while inhibited stomatal size. Conversely, C stress exacerbated the negative effects of drought on these traits. The D&C stress enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and proline content, which were similar to the responses to D stress, except for ‘ZQ’ under D&C stress. After 24 h of stress relief, the recoveries degree of most traits in plant under D and D&C stresses were similar, with ‘HZ’ recovering more than ‘ZQ’. This study indicated drought played a dominant role in combined stress. However, some unique responses could not be inferred from the superimposed effects of some single stresses.

Peanut-Colonized Piriformospora indica Enhanced Drought Tolerance by Modulating the Enzymes and Expression of Drought-Related Genes.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important cash and oil seed crop, mostly distributed in arid and semi-arid areas. In recent years, due to the influence of atmospheric circulation anomalies and other factors, drought has become frequent and increasingly serious in China. This has posed serious challenges to peanut production. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of the endophytic fungus Piriformospora indica to form a symbiotic relationship with peanut plants and to evaluate the drought tolerance of P. indica-colonized peanut plants subjected to a simulated drought stress treatment using 20% polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000). The endophytic fungus P. indica affected the physiological characteristics of the host plant by colonizing the plant roots, thereby conferring greater resistance to drought stress. This fungus strongly colonized the roots of peanuts and was found to enhance root activity after 24 h of P. indica colonization under PEG6000. Catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities were increased at 24 h in peanut leaves colonized with P. indica. Expression of drought-related genes, such as AhNCED1, AhP5CS, and DREB2A was upregulated at 24 h of P. indica colonization. In addition, after PEG6000 treatment, proline, soluble protein, and abscisic acid (ABA) concentrations in plants were increased, while the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was decreased in P. indica colonized peanut. In conclusion, P. indica mediated peanut plant protection against the detrimental effects of drought resulted from enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, and the upregulated expression of drought-related genes for lower membrane damage.

Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) Enhance Salt Tolerance in Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) by Boosting the Antioxidant System and Increasing Essential Oil Composition

Salinity represents a considerable environmental risk, exerting deleterious effects on horticultural crops. Nanotechnology has recently emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing plant tolerance to abiotic stress. Among nanoparticles, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) have been demonstrated to mitigate certain stress effects, including salinity. In the present study, the impact of CeO2 NPs (0, 25, and 100 mg L−1) on various morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments, biochemical parameters, and the essential oil profile of spearmint plants under moderate (50 mM NaCl) and severe (100 mM NaCl) salinity stress conditions was examined. As expected, salinity reduced morphological parameters, including plant height, number of leaves, fresh and dry weight of leaves and shoots, as well as photosynthetic pigments, in comparison to control. Conversely, it led to an increase in the content of proline, total phenols, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and antioxidant enzyme activities. In terms of CeO2 NP applications, they improved the salinity tolerance of spearmint plants by increasing chlorophyll and carotenoid content, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities, and lowering MDA and H2O2 levels. However, CeO2 NPs at 100 mg L−1 had adverse effects on certain physiological parameters, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the applied concentration of CeO2 NPs. Considering the response of essential oil compounds, combination of salinity stress and CeO2 treatments led to an increase in the concentrations of L-menthone, pulegone, and 1,8-cineole, which are the predominant compounds in spearmint essential oil. In summary, foliar application of CeO2 NPs strengthened the resilience of spearmint plants against salinity stress, offering new insights into the potential use of CeO2 NP treatments to enhance crop stress tolerance.

Zhachong Shisanwei pill drug-containing serum protects H2O2-Induced PC12 cells injury by suppressing apoptosis, oxidative stress via regulating the MAPK signaling pathway.

Zhachong Shisanwei Pill (ZSP) is a classical Mongolian formula that combines 13 types of Chinese medicinal materials and has been used for treating ischemic stroke (IS) for centuries. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms have yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of this study is to explore potential mechanism of ZSP on nerve cells in cerebral ischemic injury. To simulate the pathological process of oxidative stress following IS, an injury model using PC12 cells was induced with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Afterward, PC12 cells were treated with ZSP medicated serum at low, medium, and high doses. Various assays were conducted to assess cell viability and oxidative stress indicators, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Cell apoptosis was evaluated through morphological assessment and flow cytometry. Additionally, the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, PARP) and signaling pathway proteins (JNK, phosphorylated JNK, ERK, phosphorylated ERK, p38, and phosphorylated p38) were measured using automated Western blotting. Our findings indicate that ZSP medicated serum preconditioning improves the condition of PC12 cells injured by H2O2. Specifically, it increased cell survival rates and reduced LDH release. Additionally, ZSP treatment decreased ROS levels and MDA content, while enhancing the activity of SOD and CAT in the injured PC12 cells. ZSP also reversed the depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and protected cells from apoptosis by modulating the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, including Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, and PARP. Furthermore, the overactivation of the MAPK signaling pathway due to H2O2-induced injury was inhibited, as evidenced by the downregulation of phosphorylated JNK, ERK, and p38 levels. Mongolian medicine ZSP demonstrates protective effects against H2O2-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in PC12 cells. The underlying mechanism may involve the inhibition of the MAPK signaling pathway, enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activity, reduction of intracellular peroxidation levels, and suppression of intrinsic apoptosis pathways.

Genome wide analysis of HMA gene family in Hydrangea macrophylla and characterization of HmHMA2 in response to aluminum stress

Aluminum toxicity poses a significant threat to plant growth, especially in acidic soils. Heavy metal ATPases (HMAs) are crucial for transporting heavy metal ions across plant cell membranes, yet their role in Al3+ transport remains unexplored. This study identified eight HmHMA genes in the genome of Hydrangea macrophylla, categorizing them into two major clades based on phylogenetic relationships. These genes were found unevenly distributed across six chromosomes. Detailed analysis of their physicochemical properties, collinearity, and gene structure was conducted. RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses revealed that specific HmHMA genes, notably HmHMA2, were predominantly expressed in roots and flowers under Al3+ stress, indicating their potential role in Al3+ tolerance. HmHMA2 showed significant expression in roots, especially under Al3+ stress conditions, and when expressed in yeast cells, it conferred resistance to aluminum and zinc but increased sensitivity to cadmium. Overexpression of HmHMA2 in hydrangea leaf discs significantly improved Al3+ tolerance, reduced oxidative stress markers like hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity such as SOD, POD and CAT compared to controls. These findings shed lights on the potential role of HmHMAs in Al transport and tolerance in H. macrophylla.

Selenium-containing peptides as effective alleviators for low-level lead induced neural damage

The TSeMMM and SeMDPGQQ, two selenium-containing peptides derived from Se-enriched rice protein hydrolysates, have previously been demonstrated to show neuroprotective properties against high-dose lead exposure. However, the potential toxicological effects of these functional peptides on low-dose lead-induced neurotoxicity remain poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate the protective mechanism of two selenium-containing peptides in mitigating low-dose Pb2+-induced damage in HT22 cells. Results showed that treatment with 40 μmol/L Pb2+ significantly reduced cell viability and increased apoptosis, both of which were alleviated by 40 μmol/L TSeMMM and SeMDPGQQ treatment. Furthermore, two peptides exhibited antioxidant potentials by reducing reactive oxygen species levels to 32.19% and 79.29% of the model group, respectively. They also enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and mitigated oxidative stress through activation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. Additionally, two peptides improved mitochondrial function by elevating mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP production while dramatically reducing reactive oxygen species levels. Interestingly, TSeMMM exhibited superior neurointerventional effects compared to SeMDPGQQ. The RNA sequencing analysis revealed that TSeMMM modulated gene expressions related to oxidative stress and neuroprotective function. The study provides insights into the protective mechanism underlying selenium-containing peptides for mitigating neuronal damage.

Selenomethionine alleviates Aeromonas hydrophila-induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis via the Nrf2/HO1/GPX4 pathway in grass carp

Aeromonas hydrophila infection is a severe, acute, and life-threatening disease affecting grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) in aquaculture. Ferroptosis is a novel form of cell death characterized by the accumulation of free iron and harmful lipid peroxides within cells. While selenomethionine (Se-Met) is known to effectively inhibit ferroptosis and alleviate cell damage, its ability to counteract oxidative stress and ferroptosis induced by A. hydrophila remains unclear. The objective of this study is to reveal the possible mechanism behind the ferroptosis phenomenon during A. hydrophila infection. We established a macrophage model of A. hydrophila invasion to monitor the dynamic changes in iron metabolism markers to evaluate the correlation between ferroptotic stress and A. hydrophila infection. A. hydrophila infection induces cytotoxicity and mitochondrial membrane damage via ferroptosis. This damage is attributed to the accumulation of lipid peroxides due to intracellular ferrous ion overload and glutathione depletion. Supplementation of Se-Met reduced mitochondrial damage, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO1/GPX4 axis. These findings provide new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of A. hydrophila-induced ferroptosis in teleosts and suggest that targeted inhibition of ferroptosis may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for managing A. hydrophila infections.

New insights into evodiamine attenuates IPEC-J2 cells pyroptosis induced by T-2 toxin - Activating Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway through binding with Keap1

T-2 toxin (T-2) is a highly toxic mycotoxin with a molecular weight of 466.52 g/mol. Evodiamine (EV), an alkaloid component of Evodia, has anti-inflammation and antioxidant properties. As a receptor of oxidative stress, Keap1 with a molecular weight of 70 kDa, is a molecular switch that controls the Nrf2 signaling pathway. In this paper, the effect of EV on Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB pathway was investigated. Based on our research outcomes, it was observed that T-2 exposure substantially increased IPEC-J2 cells intracellular ROS levels and MDA accumulation, decreased SOD and CAT activities, disrupted intestinal tight junction (ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1), and up-regulated pyroptosis-related protein (ASC, NLRP3, caspase-1, GSDMD, IL-1β, and IL-18). Additionally, EV could bind well with Keap1, the separating it from Nrf2, promoting Nrf2 into the nucleus, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced the production of ROS, down-regulated NF-κB expression, alleviated T-2-induced pyroptosis, and restored tight junction protein expression. However, after treatment with the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385, ML385 reversed the protective effect of EV on IPEC-J2 cells. Collectively, EV can activate the Keap1-Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway via binding to Keap1, exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, inhibit the pyroptosis of IPEC-J2 cells triggered by T-2, and retore intestinal barrier function.

Evaluation of Anti-Depressant Potential of Standardized Hydroethanolic Extract of S. barbata D. Don Using Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Model

Background: S. barbata D. Don is a Chinese herb, that belongs to the family Lami-aceae. It has established traditional use in ethnomedicine for treating various ailments, includ-ing mood disorders and sleep disorders, which led to growing interest in exploring its neuro-logical potential, particularly as a potential anti-depressant agent. Aims: This study explores the anti-depressant potential of the HSBE utilizing a Chronic Un-predictable Mild Stress-induced depression model in mice. Additionally, the research aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action. Methods: Swiss albino mice were subjected to a 3-week CUMS paradigm and subsequently administered HSBE at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg via oral administration. The behavioral alterations were evaluated using the FST, TST, OFT, and SPT. Brain levels of serotonin, dopa-mine, and nor-epinephrine were estimated in different brain regions (cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus) to uncover the molecular mechanism. Additionally, assays for monoamine oxi-dase-A, monoamine oxidase-B, and antioxidant enzyme activities were conducted. Plasma ni-trite and corticosterone levels were also measured to get further insight into potential mecha-nisms underlying the anti-depressant effects of HSBE. Results: HSBE significantly ameliorated depressive-like behavior induced by CUMS para-digm, as evidenced by reduced immobility in FST and TST, increased locomotor activity in OFT, and improved sucrose preference in SPT. Neurochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus of HSBE-treated mice, implying a potential regulation of monoaminergic neuro-transmitter levels. Moreover, biochemical analyses demonstrated a significant inhibition of both MAO-A and MAO-B activity, contributing to the increase of the brain levels of neuro-transmitters. The administration of HSBE also led to a significant enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced brain lipid peroxidation, indicating a pronounced antioxidant effect of HSBE. Furthermore, decreased plasma nitrite and corticosterone levels provided ad-ditional insights into HSBE's potential multi-targeted anti-depressant mechanism. Conclusion: This study indicates that HSBE exhibits robust anti-depressant properties, sup-ported by behavioral, neurochemical, and biochemical alterations. These findings underscore the therapeutic promise of HSBE as a natural intervention for depressive disorders, warranting further clinical exploration.

Para-coumaric acid and cinnamic acid enhance resistance of Agaricus bisporus mushrooms to Brown blotch disease caused by Pseudomonas tolaasii

The effects of postharvest pre-treatments with para-coumaric acid (PCA) and cinnamic acid (CA) against brown blotch disease in Agaricus bisporus mushrooms caused by Pseudomonas tolaasii were investigated. PCA and CA at the concentration of 300 mg L−1 provided the highest inhibition ratio of 28.9% and 20.9%, respectively, on the in vitro growth of P. tolaasii. In addition, PCA and CA pre-treatments dramatically reduced the P. tolaasii-caused brown blotch disease in postharvest A. bisporus. Biochemical analysis revealed that PCA and CA inhibited P. tolaasii-induced activation of polyphenol oxidase and melanin production, increased activities of β-N-acetylglucosaminidase, β-1,3-glucanase and chitinase, promoted phenylpropanoid biosynthetic enzyme activities and metabolite production, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, and decreased malondialdehyde content in A. bisporus mushrooms. Collectively, these results demonstrated that PCA and CA can induce resistance to postharvest brown blotch disease in A. bisporus mushrooms, and have good prospects for disease control in edible mushrooms.

Chitosan/hesperidin nanoparticles formulation: a promising approach against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers via Sirt1/FOXO1/PGC-1α/HO-1 pathway.

Hesperidin (Hes) protects different organs from damage by acting as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This study aims to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of free hesperidin and its chitosan nanoparticles (HNPs) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats, hypothesizing that HNPs will enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy due to improved solubility and targeted delivery. HNPs were synthesized via ion gelation and characterized using TEM, SEM, and zeta potential analyses. Key assessments included gastric acidity, histological analysis, and markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. HNPs significantly decreased gastric acidity, reduced inflammatory and apoptotic markers, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities compared to free hesperidin and esomeprazole. Furthermore, Sirt-1, PGC-1α, HO-1, and FOXO1 gene expression were also evaluated. HNPs raised Sirt-1, PGC-1α, HO-1, and downregulated FOXO1, and they suppressed the activities of NF-κB p65, COX-2, IL-1β, CD86, FOXO1 P53, and caspase-3 and increased Sirt-1 activity. HNPs treatment notably restored antioxidant enzyme activity, reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, and improved histological outcomes more effectively than free hesperidin and esomeprazole. These results indicate that chitosan nanoparticles significantly enhance the gastroprotective effects of hesperidin against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers, potentially offering a more effective therapeutic strategy. Further research should explore the clinical applications of HNPs in human subjects.

Thrombopoietin ameliorates doxorubicin-induced toxicities in H9c2 myocardiocytes by inhibiting oxidative stress through the SIRT1/p38 MAPK signaling pathway

Objective: To explore whether thrombopoietin can exert a protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by modulating the sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) signaling pathway. Methods: H9c2 cell viability was determined by CCK-8 and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. The protein expressions of SIRT1 and p38 MAPK were measured by Western blot. RT-qPCR was also used to determine S1RT1 mRNA expression. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and antioxidant enzyme activities were evaluated. Results: Thrombopoietin treatment reversed doxorubicin-induced decline in H9c2 cell viability. It also increased SIRT1 and decreased p-p38 MAPK protein expressions. In addition, thrombopoietin significantly attenuated doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities. However, silencing S1RT1 abrogated the protective effects of thrombopoietin, as evidenced by reduced cell viability and increased oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species levels. Conclusions: Thrombopoietin alleviates doxorubicin-induced cardiomyocyte injury by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis via the SIRT1/p38 MAPK pathway. However, its protective effects need to be further verified in animal tests.

Moderate alternate wetting and drying irrigation enhances drought-resistance abilities by improving structural mesophyll conductance of water-saving and drought-resistant rice under severe drought.

Water-saving and drought-resistant rice (WDR) coupled with alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI) possesses a high photosynthetic potential due to higher mesophyll conductance (gm) under drought conditions. However, the physiological and structural contributions to the gm of leaves and their mechanisms in WDR under AWDI are still unclear. In this study, WDR (Hanyou 73) and drought-sensitive rice (Huiliangyou 898) were selected as materials. Three irrigation patterns were established from transplanting to the heading stage, including conventional flooding irrigation (W1), moderate AWDI (W2), and severe AWDI (W3). A severe drought with a soil water potential of -50 kPa was applied for a week at the heading stage across all treatments and cultivars. The results revealed that severe drought reduced gas exchange parameters and gm but enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde content in the three treatments and both cultivars. The maximal photosynthetic rate (Amax) of HY73 in the W2 treatment was greater than that in the other combinations of cultivars and irrigation patterns. The contribution of leaf structure (54%) to gm (gm-S, structural gm) was higher than that of leaf physiology (46%) to gm (gm-P, physiological gm) in the W2 treatment of Hanyou 73. Additionally, gm-S was significantly and linearly positively correlated with gm under severe drought. Moreover, both the initial and apparent quantum efficiencies were significantly and positively with gm in rice plants (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the improvements in photosynthesis and yield in the WDR combined with moderate AWDI can mainly be attributed to the enhancement of gm-S under severe drought conditions. Quantum efficiency may be a potential factor in regulating photosynthesis by cooperating with the gm of rice plants under severe drought conditions.

Laurus nobilis L. leaves Suppress Alcohol-Related Liver Disease by Exhibiting Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Alcohol-Treated Hepatocytes and Mice.

Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can lead to a serious health condition known as alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD). This ailment represents a significant worldwide health challenge, affecting populations across various demographics. ARLD has a multifactorial pathogenesis involving oxidative stress, inflammation, dysregulated lipid metabolism, and apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of Laurus nobilis L. leaf water extract (LLE) against ARLD in alcohol-treated hepatocytes and mice. LLE exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities and suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and CYP2E1 expression in ethanol-treated hepatocytes. Moreover, LLE mitigated lipogenesis by modulating the expression of lipogenic factors in ethanol-treated hepatocytes. In vivo, LLE administration attenuated liver injury, oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid accumulation induced by alcohol consumption in mice. Additionally, LLE suppressed apoptosis signaling pathways implicated in alcohol-induced hepatocyte apoptosis. These findings suggest that LLE functions as a multifaceted therapeutic agent for ARLD by modulating multiple cellular mechanisms, including the reduction of oxidative damage, mitigation of inflammatory responses, alleviation of lipid-mediated toxicity, and regulation of programmed cell death pathways.