Blood Glutathione Peroxidase Activity Research Articles

The presence of virulence factor genes downregulates uterine AQP3 and alters glutathione peroxidase activity and uterine histopathology in canine pyometra.

Present study was designed to evaluate the role of virulence factor genes (papG, cnf1 and hylA) in the pathogenesis of canine pyometra. Antimicrobial susceptibility test and detection of virulence genes were performed Escherichia coli (E. coli) detected in uterine swab samples. Animals were divided into two groups based on the presence (VF+, n:14) or absence (VF-, n:7) of the virulence factor genes papG, cnf1 and hylA. Blood and tissue glutathione peroxidase activity, uterine histopathologic analysis and AQP3, ESR1, PGR, OXTR gene expressions were determined in both groups. Statistical analyses were performed using Stata version 15.1. All E. coli isolates were susceptible to amikacin, whereas resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and lincomycin. None of the isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime. E. coli isolates had at least one virulence gene. The most prevalent gene was fimH (100%), followed by fyuA (95.8%), usp (83.3%), sfa (75%), cnf1 and hlyA (70.8%) genes. Blood GPx activity was greater in VF+ animals. On the other hand, uterine tissue GPx activity was lower in VF+ group compared to the control group. Expression levels of AQP3 were upregulated more than fivefold in VF-dogs compared to the control group. In addition, AQP3 expression levels were found approximately threefold higher in VF (-) than VF (+) group (p < .05). Varying degree of inflammation noted for all animals with pyometra, but the presence of bacteria noted only in VF+ animals. In conclusion, the presence of virulence factor genes does not play a role in the histopathological degree of inflammation, the presence of bacteria was found to vary. Serum GPx activity increased in VF+ animals. While the hormone receptor expressions were similar, AQP expression was upregulated in the absence of virulence factor genes.

Glutathione-related antioxidant defence, DNA damage, and DNA repair in patients suffering from post-COVID conditions.

Post-COVID conditions are defined as the continuation of the symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) 3 months after the initial Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, with no other explanation. Post-COVID conditions are seen among 30%-60% of patients with asymptomatic or mild forms of COVID-19. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of post-COVID conditions are not known. In SARS-CoV-2 infection, activation of the immune system leads to increased production of reactive oxygen molecules, depleted antioxidant reserve, and finally occurrence of oxidative stress. In oxidative stress conditions, DNA damage increases and DNA repair systems impair. In this study, glutathione (GSH) level, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level, basal, induced, and post-repair DNA damage were investigated in individuals suffering from post-COVID conditions. In the red blood cells, GSH levels and GPx activities were measured with a spectrophotometric assay and a commercial kit. Basal, in vitro H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide)-induced, and post-repair DNA damage (DNA damage after a repair incubation following H2O2-treatment, in vitro) were determined in lymphocytes by the comet assay. The urinary 8-OHdG levels were measured by using a commercial ELISA kit. No significant difference was found between the patient and control groups for GSH level, GPx activity, and basal and H2O2-induced DNA damage. Post-repair DNA damage was found to be higher in the patient group than those in the control group. Urinary 8-OHdG level was lower in the patient group compared to the control group. In the control group, GSH level and post-repair DNA damage were higher in the vaccinated individuals. In conclusion, oxidative stress formed due to the immune response against SARS-COV-2 may impair DNA repair mechanisms. Defective DNA repair may be an underlying pathological mechanism of post-COVID conditions.

Tryptophan can alleviate the inhibition in growth and immunity of tilapia (GIFT Oreochromis spp.) induced by high dietary soybean meal level

A 85-day feeding trial was designed to verify the effects of soybean meal on growth, feed utilization, antioxidants, and immune response of tilapia (GIFT Oreochromis spp.), and evaluated the effects of dietary tryptophan on alleviating the negative responses induced by high inclusion of soybean meal. Five experimental diets, two of which substituted 15 % and 45 % of the fish meal with soybean meal, the others supplemented with 0.2 %, 0.4 % and 0.6 % L-tryptophan on the basis of 45 % soybean meal, respectively, were fed 400 juvenile fish (initial weight: 2.98 ± 0.04 g). The results showed that the crude ash content, red blood cell count (RBC), lipase (LPS) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities of tilapia significantly decreased when the soybean meal replaced fish meal by 45 % (p < 0.05). Although the growth performance values of replacing 45 % soybean meal were slightly lower than that of replacing 15 % soybean meal, while there was no significant difference between them (p > 0.05). However, supplementation with tryptophan in the high soybean meal replacement groups significantly improved the final weight, weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), phagocytosis index (PI), RBC, trypsin (TPS), LPS and GSH-Px activities of tilapia (p < 0.05), and the apparent digestibility and feed coefficient of tilapia were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggested that excessive soybean meal inhibited the feed utilization and immunity of tilapia to a certain extent, while the inclusion of 0.2 %−0.4 % tryptophan in the diet could alleviate the negative effects of high soybean meal diet in tilapia. This study will provide ideas and a theoretical basis for further expanding the application of soybean meal in tilapia feed.

Whole Genome Sequence of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HOM3204 and Its Antioxidant Effect on D-Galactose-Induced Aging in Mice.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, previously named Lactobacillus plantarum, is a facultative, homofermentative lactic acid bacterium widely distributed in nature. Several Lpb. plantarum strains have been demonstrated to possess good probiotic properties, and Lpb. plantarum HOM3204 is a potential probiotic strain isolated from homemade pickled cabbage plants. In this study, whole-genome sequencing was performed to acquire genetic information and predict the function of HOM3204, which has a circular chromosome of 3,232,697 bp and two plasmids of 48,573 and 17,060 bp, respectively. Moreover, various oxidative stress-related genes were identified in the strain, and its antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Compared to reference strains, the intracellular cell-free extracts of Lpb. plantarum HOM3204 at a dose of 1010 colony-forming units (CFU)/ml in vitro exhibited stronger antioxidant properties, such as total antioxidant activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging rate, superoxide dismutase activity, and glutathione (GSH) content. Daily administration of 109 CFU Lpb. plantarum HOM3204 for 45 days significantly improved the antioxidant function by increasing the glutathione peroxidase activity in the whole blood and GSH concentration in the livers of D-galactose-induced aging mice. These results suggest that Lpb. plantarum HOM3204 can potentially be used as a food ingredient with good antioxidant properties.

14 Systemic and local antioxidant status is unaffected by repeated gluteal muscle collections in mature sedentary horses

Repeated skeletal muscle tissue collections are routinely utilized in research settings to determine the effects of various interventions or stressors on the muscle tissue. However, there is limited data on the effects of these muscle collections on the animal, creating difficulty in delineating impacts of interventions from the physiological response to tissue collection. Twenty-five mature, sedentary, stock-type horses (8 geldings, 17 mares; mean ± SD 9.5 ± 3.5 y, 505 ± 52 kg) were used to test the hypothesis that repeated skeletal muscle collections would not impact systemic or local antioxidant status. Horses were stratified by age and sex and randomly assigned to one of 4 groups: gluteus medius samples collected at 1) 0 and 24 h (n = 7); 2) 0 and 6 h (n = 5); 3) 0, 6, and 12 h (n = 7); or 4) 0, 6, 12, and 24 h (n = 6) using a 14-gauge tissue collection needle inserted to a standardized depth of 5 cm. Before collection, the site was aseptically prepared. Approximately 500 mg of tissue was obtained per collection through repeated insertions of the collection needle into the same skin puncture but at different angles. Blood was collected via jugular venipuncture from all horses every 6 h for 72 h, starting 24 h before the first muscle collection and extending to 48 h post-initial muscle collection. Throughout the collection period, horses remained group housedon Bahiagrass pastures and were only brought up to stocks for tissue collections. Malondialdehyde concentrations in muscle and superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in muscle and whole blood were quantified via colorimetry. Data were analyzed using linear models in SAS v.9.4 with time as a repeated measure and horse as the subject. Time and sex were included as fixed effects. For blood parameters, collection group and the time × group interaction were included as additional fixed effects. Whole blood GPx activity was greater in group 4 horses (0, 6, 12, and 24 h) than horses in groups 1 (0 and 24 h) or 2 (0 and 6 h; P ≤ 0.02) and greater in mares than geldings (P ≤ 0.001). There were no other differences in skeletal muscle or whole blood antioxidant activities or muscle malondialdehyde concentrations over time or between groups of horses. These results suggest that repeated muscle tissue collections do not significantly impact antioxidant status of unstressed mature horses. Importantly, these data support the utility of repeated skeletal muscle collections in future study designs aimed at determining impacts of an array of interventions on skeletal muscle antioxidant status.

55 Impacts of dietary Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer on antioxidant status of mature, sedentary horses

Reactive oxygen species are normal by-products of cellular metabolism but may have detrimental effects on cellular matrices when overproduced. Dietary antioxidants may neutralize excess free radicals and prevent the imbalance of oxidants to antioxidants, referred to as oxidative stress. To test the hypothesis that supplementation of an herbal extract combination (Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer, LifeVantage Corporation) would improve the body's enzymatic defense system, 40 mature, sedentary horses (32 mares, 8 geldings, mean ± SD; 15.7 ± 4.9 y, 519 ± 46 kg) were stratified by age, sex, and body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to one of 4 dietary treatment groups for 56 d: 1) 0 mg (CON); 2) 675 mg (Pro1); 3) 2,025 mg (Pro3); or 4) 4,050 mg (Pro6) Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer per day (n = 10 per group). Horses were group housed and received a basal diet of coastal bermudagrass hay ad libitum and a custom-formulated concentrate grain fed individually at 0.5% BW/d (dry matter basis) split evenly between 2 meals per d. The supplement was top-dressed on the morning grain meal. Blood samples were collected at d 0, 28, and 56 of supplementation before the morning feeding and analyzed for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and concentration, superoxide dismutase(SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Data were analyzed using linear models in SAS v9.4; sex, treatment, time, time × treatment were fixed effects and time was a repeated effect with horse(treatment) as the subject. Day 0 was included in all models as a covariate. No measure was impacted by dietary treatment. Regardless of treatment, whole blood SOD activity, plasma MDA, and serum H2O2 concentration decreased from d 0 to 28 (P ≤ 0.0001) and remained suppressed at d 56 (P ≤ 0.0007). Conversely, whole blood GPx activity increased from d 0 to 28 (P = 0.01) and decreased from d 28 to 56 (P = 0.02) to be similar to d 0 at d 56. Serum H2O2 production was greater in geldings than mares (P = 0.04) but no other variable was impacted by sex. Dietary supplementation of up to 4,050 mg/d Protandim Nrf2 Synergizer did not impact antioxidant status in mature, sedentary horses. Effects of supplementation on antioxidant status should be investigated in horses subjected to elevated oxidative insult, such as exercise.

Selected biomarkers of oxidative stress in healthy Beagle dogs: A preliminary study.

While oxidative stress has been studied in pathologic conditions in dogs, data in presumably healthy dogs and standardized protocols are lacking. This work purposed to bridge the gap by presenting provisional physiological ranges for oxidative stress biomarkers in a group of Beagle dogs. Based on our long-standing clinical expertise in the field of oxidative stress, nine plasma biomarkers of oxidative stress were evaluated for their concentrations (mean ± SD) in 14 healthy adult Beagle dogs. Selected biomarkers were: vitamins C (7.90 ± 1.36 μg/mL) and E (34.1 ± 6.63 μg/mL), zinc (0.80 ± 0.17 mg/L), copper (0.54 ± 0.048 mg/L), selenium (256 ± 25.7 μg/L), total and oxidized glutathione (822 ± 108 μM and 3.56 ± 1.76 μM), myeloperoxidase (67.4 ± 56.2 ng/mL), and isoprostanes (340 ± 95.3 ng/mL). Glutathione peroxidase activity and superoxide anion production in whole blood were also measured. Glutathione peroxidase activity was 473 ± 34.0 IU/g of hemoglobin and superoxide anion production in whole blood was 18,930 ± 12,742 counts per 30 min. Reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione and copper/zinc ratios were, respectively, 280 ± 139 and 0.70 ± 0.15. Sex-related differences were recorded for zinc (p = 0.0081), copper/zinc ratio (p = 0.0036) and plasma isoprostanes (p = 0.0045). Provisional physiological norms covering 95% of our group were proposed for each biomarker and should be of interest for future studies of canine oxidative stress.

Comparative Effects of Inorganic and Organic Dietary Sources of Selenium on Selenium Levels and Selenium-Dependent Glutathione Peroxidase Activity in Blood of Young Turkeys

The effect of various dietary sources of Se on Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGSH-Px) activity in plasma and whole blood was studied in turkeys. Dayold poults were fed low Se diets (supplemented with vitamin E) for 15 to 24 days before being fed experimental diets for 7 to 10 days. Menhaden fish meal (0.1 ppm Se) increased plasma SeGSH-Px activity by 45% of the response to 0.1 ppm Se as Na2SeO3. Poults supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 ppm Se as Na2SeO3, had similar increases in plasma and whole blood Se levels; however, SeGSH-Px activity of plasma (r = 0.96) was better correlated with dietary Se than that of whole blood (r = 0.64). The supplement of 0.4 ppm Se increased the activity of SeGSH-Px almost 20 times in plasma but only 1.6 times in whole blood. The effectiveness of several compounds providing 0.2 ppm Se for increasing plasma SeGSH-Px activity was: Na2SeO4 > Se-dl-cystine > Se-dl-methionine and Se-dl-ethionine. The effect of Na2SeO3 was not significantly different from that of Se-dl-cystine, Se-dl-methionine or Se-dl-ethionine. The ratio of SeGSH-Px activity:Se concentration, indicating the amount of Se associated with enzyme activity, was highest in plasma of poults fed Na2SeO4 andSe-dl-cystine. The data demonstrate differences in the availability of various Se sources for SeGSH-Px activity in poults.selenium glutathione peroxidase turkeys fish meal

Comparison of dietary supplementation of sodium selenite and bio-nanostructured selenium on nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, antioxidant status, milk production, and lamb performance of Barki ewes

Selenium (Se) supplementation during early lactation can affect not only the ewe's health and milk production but also their lamb performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of two different forms of selenium [inorganic form as sodium selenite (SS), and bio-nanostructured selenium (SeNSM)] on ewes nutrient digestibility, milk yield, milk composition, blood biochemical parameters, and their lambs' growth performance. Twenty-one Barki ewes [32.72 ± 0.84 kg initial body weight (BW), 14 ± 7 days in milk] were assigned according to BW and milk yield from the previous lactation period into three experimental groups (n = 7 ewes/ group) for a period of 50 days. The control group fed the basal diet without Se addition, the SS group fed the basal diet supplemented with SS at 1.2 mg/ kg dry matter (DM), and the SeNSM group fed the basal diet supplemented with SeNSM at 1.2 mg/ kg DM. Supplementation of SeNSM improved (P = 0.053) neutral detergent fiber digestibility compared to the control. No differences were found among the treatments on blood metabolites, however, both Se forms tended to increase (P < 0.01) the blood Se concentration compared to the control. Ewes fed SeNSM had higher (P < 0.05) blood Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, milk yield, fat-corrected milk, milk fat, protein, lactose, and ash yields, and milk Se than ewes fed the control diet. The lambs of ewes fed SeNSM had higher (P = 0.03) BW gains compared to other treatments. In conclusion, the Se of SeNSM form was more effective than SS in improving the productive performance of both ewes and their lambs.

Dietary supplementation with garcinol during late gestation alleviates disorders of bile acid metabolism and improves the performance of sows and newborn piglets.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary garcinol supplementation during late gestation on bile acid metabolism and performance of sows. Sixty sows (Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace; second- or third-parity; n = 20) with disorder of bile acid metabolism were randomly divided into three groups: control diet (CON; basal diet), basal diet with 200 mg garcinol (Low Gar), and basal diet with 600 mg garcinol (High Gar) per kg of feed. The body weight (BW); backfat thickness and litter size of the sows; and birth weight, weaning weight, and mortality of piglets were recorded. Sows' blood was collected for the measurements of hematological parameters and antioxidative and immune indexes, and indicators related to bile acid metabolism, respectively. The colostrum and fecal samples of the sows were also collected for analysis of colostrum composition and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility. Garcinol had no effect on the BW and backfat thickness of the sows but significantly decreased the mortality and number of weak litter (P < 0.05). Moreover, the white blood cell counts, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activity in the plasma of the sows were increased more significantly (P < 0.05) in the garcinol groups than that in the CON group, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was decreased (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with garcinol significantly reduced TBA concentrations (P < 0.05). The content of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the plasma and in colostrum of sows were increased more significantly (P < 0.05) in the garcinol groups than that in the CON group. In addition, dry matter (DM), Ash, and EE in the colostrum were similar between groups (P > 0.05), whereas the garcinol significantly increased the crude protein (CP) in the colostrum. The apparent total tract nutrient digestibility was similar between treatments. Garcinol treatment induced a gradually decreased (P > 0.05) the expression of genes involved in BA synthesis (CYP7A1, CYP8B1), BA uptake (NTCP, OATP1A2), BA secretion (BSEP and MRP2), BA detoxification (SULT2A1), and BA efflux into the blood circulation (OSTβ). Collectively, this study indicates that sows fed with garcinol in late gestation showed relieved bile acid metabolism disorder and improved sows performance, antioxidative status, colostrum protein content, showing promise in natural plant extract nutrition for sows with disorder of bile acid metabolism.

Alleviation of negative effect of heat stress through supplementations of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and turmeric (Curcuma longa L) powders in diets of broiler chickens

This study was designed to assess the effect of cinnamon powder (CNP) and turmeric powder (TP) on growth performance, antioxidant status, liver function, meat quality and lactate dehydrogenase activity of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions. A total of 200, one day old as-hatched broiler chickens (ROSS 308) were randomly allotted into five treatments with four replicates (n = 10). Treatment groups were control (C): fed basal diet; T1: 0.5% CNP; T2: 1.0% CNP; T3: 0.5% TP and T4: 1.0% TP. Results indicated that body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were improved significantly (p < 0.05) in treatments fed CNP and TP. Serum malondialdehyde and lactate dehydrogenase activity were decreased (p < 0.05) while blood superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity were increased (p < 0.05) in treatments fed CNP and TP. Addition of CNP and TP decreased (p < 0.05) serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activity. Treatments fed CNP and TP resulted increased (p < 0.05) breast and thigh meat monounsaturated fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid and water holding capacity while decreased (p < 0.05) saturated fatty acid and cook loss. In conclusion CNP and TP possess advantageous effect on growth performance, antioxidant status, liver function, meat quality and lactate dehydrogenase activity.

Effects of Lactobacillus fermented plant products on dairy cow health, production, and environmental impact

During the onset of lactation, dairy cows experience increases in metabolic demands causing an increase in metabolic and oxidative stress that may result in disorders and reduced milk production. Dairy cows also represent a source of negative environmental impacts. Accordingly, natural products which alleviate these stresses and sources of environmental pollutants would be beneficial. The objective of this experiment was to determine how commercial products Lactobacillus fermented seaweed (Ecklonia radiata) (SWO; Animal Health Tonic; AgriSea Ltd.; Paeroa, NZ) and Lactobacillus fermented seaweed plus terrestrial plants (SWP; Fortress+; Agrisea Ltd.; Paeroa, NZ) influence dairy cow oxidative stress, environmental impacts, and production. Pregnant multiparous Holstein-Friesian × Jersey cross dairy cows (n = 27; body weight = 488.8 ± 47.6, mean ± SD) received daily oral doses of water (CON), SWO, or SWP. During the prepartum period (i.e., last third of gestation) the cows received 5-mL of their respective treatments once daily and this dose was increased to 100-mL per cow per d following calving. Ruminal fluid and blood samples were collected on d 0, 38, and 80 and blood samples were again collected 3 days after calving. Total volatile fatty acids concentrations in ruminal fluid were 26% greater (P = 0.05) in animals administered SWP compared with CON during the prepartum period. The CON cows had greater (P < 0.05) whole blood glutathione peroxidase activity than cows on SWP and SWO at all-time points following treatment application. After 80-d of administering the treatments and 3-d post calving, SWO and SWP had greater (P < 0.05) total antioxidant status of plasma (marker of ability to reduce oxidants). Three days after calving, the SWO and SWP cows had less (P < 0.05) plasma non esterified fatty acid concentrations and urea nitrogen than CON cows. Further, the SWP treatment had the lowest concentration of milk urea N and was less (P < 0.05) than CON. Accordingly, the calculated daily urinary N excretion of SWP was 18.0% lower (P < 0.05) than CON and SWO had a tendency (P = 0.07) to have 14.7% lower urinary N excretion than CON. Collectively, these results highlight the ability for these Lactobacillus fermented plant products to reduce oxidative stress during the onset of lactation in dairy cows and to reduce environmental impacts. This experiment provides important information for the improvement in periparturient dairy cows’ health and environmental impacts, which have economically important implications.

Effects of Regular Brazil Nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) Consumption on Health: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials.

The Brazil nut (BN) is a promising food due to its numerous health benefits, but it is still necessary to systematically review the scientific evidence on these benefits. Thus, we examined the effects of regular BN consumption on health markers in humans according to the health state (with specific diseases or not) of the subjects. PubMed, Embase®, and Scielo databases were used to search for clinical trials. The PRISMA guideline was used to report the review, and the risk of bias for all studies was assessed. Twenty-four studies were included in the present review, of which fifteen were non-randomized. BNs were consumed in the context of a habitual free-living diet in all studies. Improvement in antioxidant status through increased levels of selenium and/or glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma, serum, whole blood, and/or erythrocytes was observed in all studies that evaluated antioxidant status, regardless of the health state of the sample. In addition, healthy subjects improved lipid markers and fasting glucose. Subjects with obesity had improvement in markers of lipid metabolism. Subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia improved oxidative stress or DNA damage. Subjects undergoing hemodialysis benefited greatly from BN consumption, as they improved lipid profile markers, oxidative stress, inflammation, and thyroid function. Older adults with mild cognitive impairment improved verbal fluency and constructional praxis, and controversial results regarding the change in a marker of lipid peroxidation were observed in subjects with coronary artery disease. In conclusion, the benefits of BN consumption were found in different pathways of action and study populations.

Dietary supplementation of protexin and artichoke extract for modulating growth performance and oxidative stress in broilers

In this study, the effects of Protexin and artichoke extract (AE) were evaluated on the performance and oxidative stress of chickens. Totally, 300 chicks were divided into 4 groups that were fed a basal diet, a diet containing Protexin, AE, and Protexin plus AE all over the growing period. The growth indices were measured weekly and analyzed at 21 and 42 days of age. At 42 days of age, blood samples were collected from all chickens. The concentrations of liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and antioxidant status were measured in blood samples. Results showed that the weight gain (WG) was significantly higher and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly lower in chickens that received Protexin, or Protexin plus AE, in comparison with chickens that received AE and control chickens (P&amp;lt;0.05). Furthermore, the addition of AE plus Protexin can significantly increase the activity of blood Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant status (TAS) with respect to chickens that were fed Protexin and AE alone. The triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was lower and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were higher in chickens that received AE or Protexin plus AE, with a comparison of chickens fed Protexin and control chickens (P&amp;lt;0.05). The levels of aspartate transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) show a significant decrease in chickens that get Protexin plus AE. In conclusion, continuous utilization of Protexin along with artichoke extract in broiler diets can promote growth performance and modulate oxidative stress in broilers.

Effect of Pinus taeda Hydrolyzed Lignin on Biochemical Profile, Oxidative Status, and Semen Quality of Healthy Dogs.

Sub-fertility represents a frequent challenge in canine reproduction. The use of micronutrients and/or additives was investigated as an approach to improve sperm quality, which are the main constraints on reproduction in canine species. Although some information is available about the effect of daily supplementation with substances presenting antioxidant/antioxidative activity on semen quality, this study aimed to observe the effect of a polyphenolic mix of substances derived from hydroxylation of Pinus taeda lignin (PTHL). For the trial, 40 male dogs were involved, 20 received PTHL for 90 days and 20 were left untreated, serving as a control group. Every 30 days, blood and semen samples were collected and analyzed. The biochemical profile of both groups was not affected by treatment and time (p > 0.05). Differently, dogs that received PTHL showed higher blood superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity (p < 0.01). Moreover, the dietary addition of PTHL can significantly increase the semen volume, concentration, and spermatozoa motility (p < 0.01) in healthy dogs. PTHL supplementation represents a good way to enhance the semen quality of dogs and improve the antioxidant status of animals.

Dietary glycine supplementation modulates antioxidant and immune responses of beluga, Huso huso, juveniles

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid used in fish nutrition, and possess several important roles in physiological process. Despite such functions, little is known about the glycine roles in fish, particularly in sturgeons. Therefore, the present study aimed at assessing the effects of dietary glycine supplementation on growth performance, antioxidant, and immunological parameters in beluga, Huso huso. Four hundred eighty fish (~ 48 g) were randomly distributed in 12 fiberglass tanks (1200 L) at a stocking density of 40 fish per tank. Four diets supplemented with 0% (control), 0.25% (Gly0.25), 0.5% (Gly0.5), and 1% (Gly1) glycine were offered to the fish (each diet to a batch of three tanks) for eight weeks at water temperature of 23.2 ± 0.70 °C. At the end of the feeding trial, the fish were blood-sampled for blood leukocyte count, plasma cortisol, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), lysozyme, and alternative complement activity (ACH50) analysis. The results indicated there were no significant differences in the fish final weight (197–213 g; P = 0.511), weight gain (299–311%; P = 0.956) specific growth rate (2.46–2.52%/d; P = 0.944), feed conversion ratio (0.97–1.03; P = 0.863), protein efficiency ratio (2.29–2.45; P = 0.775), and survival (91.7–100%; P = 0.306) among the treatments. Plasma cortisol level significantly decreased in Gly0.25 treatment, compared to the control (24.7 vs. 28.8 ng/mL; P = 0.035). Plasma glucose levels exhibited significant (P < 0.001) elevation in Gly0.5 (51.0 mg/dL) and Gly1 (53.0 mg/dL) treatments, compared to the control (42.0 mg/dL). The treatment Gly0.5 showed significant elevations in blood leukocyte count (11.4 vs. 8.23 ×1000cell/µL; P = 0.032), plasma triglyceride (581 vs. 410 mg/dL; P = 0.017), cholesterol (71.3 vs. 59.8 mg/dL; P = 0.011), GSH (2.67 vs. 2.21 mM/mL; P = 0.003), GPx (243 vs. 217 U/mL; P < 0.001), and MDA (123 vs. 99 mM/L; P < 0.001), compared to the control treatment. Plasma GR (P < 0.001) showed significant decrease in Gly0.5 (1154 vs. 1784 U/mL) and Gly1 (1171 vs. 1784 U/mL) treatments. Besides, Gly0.25 and Gly0.5 treatments showed significantly higher plasma lysozyme (45.8–45.9 vs. 36.5 U/mL; P = 0.001) and ACH50 (138–139 vs. 130 U/mL; P < 0.001), compared to the control. Based on the results, dietary glycine supplementation at 0.25–0.5% could suppress plasma cortisol levels and improve antioxidant and immunological parameters on beluga, although has no beneficial effects on the fish growth performance.

Effects of supplementing diet with Thyme (Thymuas vulgaris L.) essential oil and/or selenium yeast on production performance and blood variables of broiler chickens.

BackgroundOrganic products for animals are becoming more widely accepted by consumers. Using herbal additives may lead to more healthy animal products. In this research, it is hypothesized that thyme essential oil (TEO) and/or selenium yeast (SY) would be helpful to enhance production performance in broilers.ObjectiveIn the current study, the effects of adding TEO and/or SY to the diet on broiler performance and blood parameters were evaluated in broiler chickens.MethodsA total of 480 chicks were distributed in 24 cages with 20 chicks (10 males and 10 females) each and assigned to be fed four iso‐caloric and iso‐nitrogenous diets including two levels (0 and 250 mg/kg) of TEO and two levels (0 and 0.3 mg/kg) of SY in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with six replicates.ResultsAdding SY significantly decreased feed intake in finishing period (22–42 d) (p < 0.05). Supplementation with SY and TEO significantly decreased plasma uric acid and triglyceride levels, respectively (p < 0.05). However, neither of the supplements had any influence on the plasma glucose and albumin levels (p > 0.05). The lowest level of plasma cholesterol was detected in the birds fed the TEO‐supplemented diet (p < 0.05). Addition of SY significantly increased blood glutathione peroxidase activity (p < 0.05).ConclusionsDietary supplemental TEO has a favourable effect on feed intake, weight gain, and body weight values. Besides, SY may decrease blood concentration of uric acid, as well as blood glutathione peroxidase activity. An interaction is detected between TEO and SY on blood cholesterol.

Do Concentration or Activity of Selenoproteins Change in Acute Stroke Patients? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses

Introduction: Stroke is characterized by deleterious oxidative stress. Selenoprotein enzymes are essential endogenous antioxidants, and detailed insight into their role after stroke could define new therapeutic treatments. This systematic review aimed to elucidate how blood selenoprotein concentration and activity change in the acute phase of stroke. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline databases for studies measuring serial blood selenoprotein concentration or activity in acute stroke patients or in stroke patients compared to non-stroke controls. Meta-analyses of studies stratified by the type of stroke, blood compartment, and type of selenoprotein measurement were conducted. Results: Eighteen studies and data from 941 stroke patients and 708 non-stroke controls were included in this review. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was the only identified selenoprotein, and its activity was most frequently measured. Results from 12 studies and 693 patients showed that compared to non-stroke controls in acute ischaemic stroke patients, the GPx activity increased in haemolysate (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.07–0.47) but decreased in plasma (mean difference [MD]: −1.08 U/L, 95% CI: −1.94 to −0.22) and serum (SMD: −0.54, 95% CI: −0.91 to −0.17). From 4 identified studies in 106 acute haemorrhagic stroke patients, the GPx activity decreased in haemolysate (SMD: −0.40, 95% CI: −0.68 to −0.13) and remained unchanged in plasma (MD: −0.10 U/L, 95% CI: −0.81 to 0.61) and serum (MD: −5.00 U/mL, 95% CI: −36.17 to 26.17) compared to non-stroke controls. Results from studies assessing the GPx activity in the haemolysate compartment were inconsistent and characterized by high heterogeneity. Conclusions: Our results suggest a reduction of the blood GPx activity in acute ischaemic stroke patients, a lack of evidence regarding a role for GPx in haemorrhagic stroke patients, and insufficient evidence for other selenoproteins.

Children Environmentally Exposed to Agrochemicals in Rural Areas Present Changes in Oxidative Status and DNA Damage.

Rural children are exposed to several chemicals. This study evaluated the environmental co-exposure of rural children to cholinesterase inhibitor insecticides and metals/metalloids, and the resulting oxidative stress and DNA damage. Seventy-two children (5 to 16years old) were studied at two different moments: period 1, when agrochemicals were less used, and period 2, when agrochemicals were extensively used in agriculture. Biomonitoring was performed by evaluating butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) activity in serum; arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), and nickel (Ni) levels in blood; malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma; glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities in whole blood; non-protein thiol levels in erythrocytes; and micronuclei (MN) assay in exfoliated buccal cells. Cr and As levels were higher than the reference values in both periods, and Ni levels were higher than the reference values in period 2 alone. BuChE activity was inhibited in period 2 compared with period 1. In period 2, there was an increase in endogenous antioxidants and a decrease in MDA, probably demonstrating a compensatory mechanism as a response to increasing xenobiotics. Also in period 2, the MN frequency increased and BuChE and As were positively associated, suggesting co-exposure. On the other hand, in period 1, it was observed that Cr, Ni, and Pb blood levels were negatively associated with GSH-Px and GST, while MDA was positively associated with As levels. Our findings demonstrated an imbalance in endogenous antioxidants, contributing to genotoxicity and lipoperoxidation, probably in response to exposure to xenobiotics, especially carcinogenic elements (Cr, As, and Ni).

Lactobacillus fermented plant extracts provided to yearling ewes improves their lambs’ antioxidant status at weaning

The objective of this experiment was to determine if supplementation with Lactobacillus fermented plant extracts will affect the livestock performance (BW change and reproduction) and antioxidant status of ewe lambs managed to lamb as yearlings (EWES). A further objective of this experiment was to determine how providing the Lactobacillus fermented plant extracts may influence their lambs’ (LAMBS) performance, rumen fermentation patterns, and antioxidant status following weaning. The EWES [n = 60; initial body weight (BW) = 29.6 ± 2.4] were provided a concentrate supplement (100 g/ewe/d) with either no extract (CON), a seaweed based extract (SWO; 10 mL/ewe/d), or a seaweed plus terrestrial plant extract (SWP; 10 mL/ewe/d), from their weaning through to the weaning of their lambs. Treatment did not influence EWES plasma total antioxidant status (TAS), whole blood glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), or EWES or LAMBS body weight change. However, one day after weaning, the LAMBS born to SWO and SWP EWES had 13–14% greater (P = 0.02) TAS and had lower (P = 0.03) GPx activity than LAMBS born to CON EWES indicating greater antioxidant transmission to their offspring in SWO and SWP EWES. Overall, it was concluded BW changes did not appear to be great enough to elicit oxidative stress in EWES. Supplying SWO and SWP to sheep increased the maternal transmission of antioxidants to their offspring.