Enzymes Glutathione Peroxidase Research Articles

Impact of organic and nanoparticle-selenium fortified larval weaning diet on survival, growth, gastrointestinal, and (GPx) activity of European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) Larvae

AbstractThe study involved three groups of six broodstock with a 1:1 male-to-female ratio. They were injected with 13 µg/kg LHRHa to stimulate spawning. We fed the broodstock three diets: a control diet without selenium, a diet containing 0.3 mg of nano-selenium /kg (N-Se), and a diet containing 4 mg of organic selenium /kg (O-Se). The broodstock diet consisted of equal parts of dry feed (45% protein), sardines, and squid. After being laid, the eggs were obtained from the collection ponds at the General Authority for Fisheries Development's fish hatchery and incubated until hatching. The larvae were given a micro diet containing 51.7% crude protein and live food (Rotifer and Artemia). Rotifer density increased from 5/ml to 15/ml by day 22 dph, Artemia nauplii increased from 0.2 to 4 ind./ml, from 7 to 35 dph then decreased to 0 at 55 dph, and micro-diets increased from 100-200 µ at 16 dph to 200-400 µ at 23-40 dph to 300-500 µ at 55 dph, and 500-1000 µ until the experiment ended. Three different diets in three replicates were tested: A micro diet free of selenium as a control diet (C), A micro diet with 0.3 mg of nano selenium (N-Se) kg-1, and A micro diet supplemented with organic selenium 4 mg (O-Se). Each group was taken from the three Broodstock groups respectively. Sixteen days after hatching, the three experimental micro diets were introduced to the larvae and continued for 76 days post-hatch. Larvae (260,000 per tank) were placed in fiberglass tanks with 4 m3 of water at a temperature of 19±2°C for optimal conditions. The larvae fed the N-Se diet had significantly better survival rates (75.0 ± 1.2 %), final body weight (240.0 ± 5.8 mg), weight gain (239.00 ± 5.8 mg), average daily gain (3.98±0.1mg), total length (39.0±0.06 mm), specific growth rate (9.133±0.04 %/day), feed intake (471.67±0.01 mg), and better feed conversion ratio (1.97±0.01) than the other groups (P < 0.05). The group provided with N-Se also had the highest levels of glutathione peroxidase enzyme (GPx) content in the whole larval body, whereas the control diet without Se supplementation recorded the lowest value of (14.8 ± 0.1 U/mg protein). The number and length of folds in the stomach and esophagus of sea bass post-larvae fed on diets fortified with selenium in both forms, nanoparticles or organic, showed a significant (P < 0.05) enhancement on the larval gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Moreover, selenium has an anti-inflammatory action in sea bass post-larvae. This study concluded that using N-Se as an antioxidant supports the growth and survival of European seabass D. labrax, gastrointestinal development and antioxidant efficacy during critical weaning.

Impact of organic and nanoparticle-selenium fortified larval weaning diet on survival, growth, gastrointestinal, and (GPx) activity of European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) Larvae

AbstractThe study involved three groups of six broodstock with a 1:1 male-to-female ratio. They were injected with 13 µg/kg LHRHa to stimulate spawning. We fed the broodstock three diets: a control diet without selenium, a diet containing 0.3 mg of nano-selenium /kg (N-Se), and a diet containing 4 mg of organic selenium /kg (O-Se). The broodstock diet consisted of equal parts of dry feed (45% protein), sardines, and squid. After being laid, the eggs were obtained from the collection ponds at the General Authority for Fisheries Development's fish hatchery and incubated until hatching. The larvae were given a micro diet containing 51.7% crude protein and live food (Rotifer and Artemia). Rotifer density increased from 5/ml to 15/ml by day 22 dph, Artemia nauplii increased from 0.2 to 4 ind./ml, from 7 to 35 dph then decreased to 0 at 55 dph, and micro-diets increased from 100-200 µ at 16 dph to 200-400 µ at 23-40 dph to 300-500 µ at 55 dph, and 500-1000 µ until the experiment ended. Three different diets in three replicates were tested: A micro diet free of selenium as a control diet (C), A micro diet with 0.3 mg of nano selenium (N-Se) kg-1, and A micro diet supplemented with organic selenium 4 mg (O-Se). Each group was taken from the three Broodstock groups respectively. Sixteen days after hatching, the three experimental micro diets were introduced to the larvae and continued for 76 days post-hatch. Larvae (260,000 per tank) were placed in fiberglass tanks with 4 m3 of water at a temperature of 19±2°C for optimal conditions. The larvae fed the N-Se diet had significantly better survival rates (75.0 ± 1.2 %), final body weight (240.0 ± 5.8 mg), weight gain (239.00 ± 5.8 mg), average daily gain (3.98±0.1mg), total length (39.0±0.06 mm), specific growth rate (9.133±0.04 %/day), feed intake (471.67±0.01 mg), and better feed conversion ratio (1.97±0.01) than the other groups (P < 0.05). The group provided with N-Se also had the highest levels of glutathione peroxidase enzyme (GPx) content in the whole larval body, whereas the control diet without Se supplementation recorded the lowest value of (14.8 ± 0.1 U/mg protein). The number and length of folds in the stomach and esophagus of sea bass post-larvae fed on diets fortified with selenium in both forms, nanoparticles or organic, showed a significant (P < 0.05) enhancement on the larval gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Moreover, selenium has an anti-inflammatory action in sea bass post-larvae. This study concluded that using N-Se as an antioxidant supports the growth and survival of European seabass D. labrax, gastrointestinal development and antioxidant efficacy during critical weaning.

Effectiveness of setarud (IMOD™) in attenuating gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in male rats

BackgroundGentamicin (GEN) can have serious adverse effects including nephrotoxicity. Setarud (IMOD™) is a new herbal drug with beneficial immune effects, obtained by mixing Tanacetum vulgare (tansy), Rosa canina and Urtica dioica (nettle) extracts as well as selenium, flavonoids and carotenes. This novel study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Setarud (IMOD™) in attenuating GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in male rats. Twenty-eight adult male Sprague Dawley rats (weighing 180–200 g) were randomly divided into four groups (7 rats in each group): Control, IMOD treated (20 mg/kg body weight), GEN treated (100 mg/kg body weight), and GEN + IMOD co-treated. Injections were done intraperitoneally for 12 days. Serum urea, creatinine (Cr), Cr clearance, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) level, and activities of antioxidant enzymes Peroxidase (POD), Catalase (CAT), and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured by the colorimetric method. Volume density of proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), tubular necrosis, tubular cast formation, and leukocytic infiltration were evaluated histopathologically.ResultsIn the GEN group, there were significantly higher serum urea, Cr, and MDA levels with lower Cr clearance, GSH levels, POD, GPx and CAT activities, and PCT volume density with presence of tubular necrosis compared to the control and IMOD groups (P < 0.05). Treatment with IMOD significantly reduced the levels of urea, Cr and MDA, and increased Cr clearance and the activities of POD and CAT enzymes (P < 0.05). No significant differences in the activity of GSH and GPx were reported in the GEN + IMOD co-treated group compared to the GEN group. Moreover, IMOD significantly ameliorated PCT volume density and renal lesions caused by GEN.ConclusionIMOD (20 mg/kg body weight) can attenuate GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in rats by inhibition of oxidative stress or increasing the normal activity of antioxidant enzymes. Further studies are recommended on the effects of different doses of IMOD.

Immunotoxicity and oxidative damage in Litopenaeus vannamei induced by polyethylene microplastics and copper co-exposure

This study examines the combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) and copper (Cu2+) on the immune and oxidative response of Litopenaeus vannamei. PE-MP adsorbed with Cu2+ at 2.3, 6.8, and 16.8 ng (g shrimp)−1) were injected into L. vannamei. Over 14 days, survival rates were monitored, and immune and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. The results showed that combined exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ significantly reduced the survival rate and decreased total haemocyte count. Immune-related parameters (phagocytic rate, phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and antioxidant-related parameters (SOD, catalase and glutathione peroxidase mRNA and enzyme) also decreased, while respiratory burst activity significantly increased, indicating immune and antioxidant system disruption. Additionally, there was a significant increase in oxidative stress, as measured by malondialdehyde levels. Histopathological analysis revealed severe muscle, hepatopancreas, and gill damage. These results suggest that simultaneous exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ poses greater health risks to white shrimp.

Lovastatin Combination Therapy Increases the Survival and Proliferation of Rat Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Against the Inflammatory Activity of Lipopolysaccharide.

Oxidative stress hurts the survival of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) preconditioning inhibits apoptotic death in MSCs. Also, Lovastatin's protective effect was reported on MSCs. Here, we investigated the potential of LPS and Lovastatin combination therapy on the survival and proliferation of MSCs. MSCs harvested from adult rats (240-260 g) femur and tibia bone marrow. Third passage MSCs were divided into 6 groups control group, LPS, LPS + Lovastatin (10 and 15 µM), and Lovastatin (10 and 15 µM). Cell survival and proliferation were assessed using an MTT assay 24 h after LPS, Lovastatin, or LPS + Lovastatin treatment. Also, Malondialdehyde (MDA) as a lipid peroxidation marker and antioxidant enzymes such as Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity levels evaluated. Finally, the expression level of tumor protein P53 (P53) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) genes were measured by qRT-PCR test. Lovastatin 10 μM potentiated proliferation and survival of MSCs. It can increase the activity of GPX and SOD. 10 µM Lovastatin could not affect MDA amounts but decreased the expression levels of P53 and Oct4 significantly. Nevertheless, treatment with LPS reduced the survival and proliferation of MSCs, along with a significant reduction in GPX activity. LPS + Lovastatin could increase SOD activity, however, GPX enzyme activity and MSCs proliferation did not change so, and it was not effective. We propose Lovastatin at the dose of 10 µM as a suitable combination agent to increase the survival and proliferation of MSCs in oxidative stress conditions.

Antioxidant synergistic anti-inflammatory effect in the MAPK/NF-κB pathway of peptide KGEYNK (KK-6) from giant salamander (Andrias davidianus).

Giant salamander protein peptide is a peptide with rich functional properties. Giant salamander protein peptide KGEYNK (KK-6) is a peptide with both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of KK-6 are still unclear. When we studied the functional mechanism of KK-6, we found that the antioxidant property of KK-6 has a synergistic and promoting effect on anti-inflammatory properties. KK-6 enhances cellular resistance to LPS via the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway, leading to increased levels of inflammatory factors: interleukin-1β (764.81 ng mL-1), interleukin-6 (1.06 ng mL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (4440.45 ng mL-1). KK-6 demonstrates potent antioxidant properties by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, resulting in elevated levels of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase: 0.03 μg mL-1; superoxide dismutase: 0.589 μg mL-1) and a reduction in the concentration of the oxidative product malondialdehyde (967.05 μg mL-1). Our findings highlight the great potential of KK-6, a peptide extracted from giant salamander protein, as a remedy for intestinal inflammation. Through its dual role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, KK-6 offers a promising avenue for alleviating inflammation-related damage and oxidative stress. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of giant salamander products and highlights their importance in health and novel food development. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluation of the sperm parameters, oxidative stress, and histopathological effects of vitamin B12 in preventing Helicobacter pylori-induced testicular toxicity: An experimental study

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes sterility by affecting the reproductive system. vitamin B12 improves sperm quantity and function. Objective: Vitamin B12 protection against H. pylori adverse effects was investigated. Materials and Methods: 40 C57 male mice (6 wk) were randomly assigned to 4 equal groups (n = 10) including, group 1 (control without any intervention), group 2 (H), 3 (HP), and 4 (HB) received 1×109 colony forming unit (CFU) of H. pylori, 1×109 CFU of H. pylori+phosphate buffered saline, 1×109 CFU of H. pylori+50 μg/kg vitamin B12 intraperitoneally, respectively. In the induction groups, the H. pylori was orogasterically injected 3 times with 1 cc phosphate buffered saline throughout the day. Then testicular metrics, sperm motility, viability, quantity, and shape, plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity were measured. Also, testicular-tissue changes were examined using Johnson scores, tubular differentiation index, and spermatogenesis index. Vitamin B12, homocysteine, and testosterone serum levels were examined. Results: The results showed a significantly lower Johnson score, tubular differentiation index, and spermatogenesis index, and serum level of testosterone and homocysteine as well as a higher MDA level in the H and HP groups than the HB group (p &lt; 0.05). In contrast, the highest superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes activity and total antioxidant capacity as well as the lowest serum level of MDA were found in the HB group compared to other groups (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin B12 increased antioxidant enzyme activity, enhanced sperm parameters, and decreased injury to testicular tissue. It can be used as a potent antioxidant in reducing testicular damage induced by H. pylori. Key words: Helicobacter pylori, Reproductive medicine, Oxidative stress.

Cerium oxide nanoparticles display antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects on gamma irradiation-induced hepatotoxicity.

Throughout radiotherapy, radiation of the hepatic tissue leads to damage of the hepatocytes. We designed the current study to examine how cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) modulate gamma irradiation-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Animals received CONPs (15 mg/kg body weight [BW], ip) single daily dose for 14 days, and they were exposed on the seventh day to a single dose of gamma radiation (6 Gy). Results showed that irradiation increased serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities. Furthermore, it elevated oxidative stress biomarker; malondialdehyde (MDA) and inhibited the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) in hepatic tissues homogenate. Additionally, hepatic apoptotic markers; caspase-3 (Casp-3) and Casp-9 were elevated and the B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) gene level was decreased in rats exposed to radiation dose. We observed that CONPs can modulate these changes, where CONPs reduced liver enzyme activities, MDA, and apoptotic markers levels, in addition, it elevated antioxidant enzyme activities and Bcl-2 gene levels, as well as improved histopathological changes in the irradiated animals. So our results concluded that CONPs had the ability to act as radioprotector defense against hepatotoxicity resulted during radiotherapy.

Effect of regular winter swimming on blood morphological, rheological, and biochemical indicators and activity of antioxidant enzymes in males

BackgroundExposure of the human body to cold water triggers numerous beneficial physiological changes. The study aimed to assess the impact of regular winter swimming on blood morphological, rheological, and biochemical indicators and activity of antioxidant enzymes in males.MethodsThe study involved 10 male winter swimmers (the same participants examined before the season and after the season) and 13 males (not winter swimming, leading a sedentary lifestyle) in the control group. Fasting blood was collected twice: in November and in March of the following year. Basic blood morphological indicators, red cell elongation index (EI) and aggregation index (AI), concentrations of testosterone, cortisol, urea, and creatinine, as well as plasma activity of antioxidant enzymes of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were determined.ResultsThe data were collected from the same winter swimmers at the beginning and end of the season. Winter swimming resulted in a significant increase of EI values at a shear stress of 0.30 (p = 0.40), 0.58 (p < 0.001), 4.24 (p = 0.021), 8.23 (p = 0.001), 15.59 (p = 0.001), 30.94 (p = 0.004), and 60.00 Pa (p = 0.043); haemoglobin was lower than before the season (p < 0.027). No significant changes were observed in AI, AMP, T1/2, the levels of urea, creatinine, eGFR, testosterone, cortisol, or the activity of CAT or SOD. There was a statistically significant increase in GPx activity (p = 0.014) and increase in testosterone concentration (p = 0.035) in the group of winter swimmers examined before the season as compared with the control group. No statistically significant differences were found for the mean values of blood morphological indicators and other parameters.ConclusionsWinter swimming can prove to be a health-promoting factor in males, as indicated by a rise in the deformability of red blood cells in the blood vessel system after a full season of winter swimming, leading to better body oxygenation, and improves the antioxidant defence and testosterone concentration (within standard limits) in the group of winter swimmers examined before the season as compared with the control group. Winter swimming helps maintain appropriate levels of blood rheological indicators, urea, creatinine, eGFR, cortisol, testosterone, and activity of antioxidant enzymes.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT06223087, 15.01.2024.

Role of Corn Peptide Powder in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes.

Corn peptide (CP) is a short, naturally occurring, and physiologically active peptide generated from corn-protease-catalyzed hydrolysis. CP plays a role in preventing obesity-related disorders, but its impact on reducing inflammation is unknown. Hence, this study examined the possible protective effects of corn peptide powder (CPP) against the harmful effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), with a particular emphasis on reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in adipocytes. Hence, mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes underwent exposure to 10 ng/mL LPS, with or without CPP (10 and 20 μg/mL). LPS stimulation increased reactive oxygen species and superoxide anion generation. However, this effect was reduced in a dose-dependent manner by pretreatment with CPP. CPP treatment elevated the mRNA expressions of the antioxidant enzymes manganese superoxide dismutase (mnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) while reducing the mRNA expressions of the cytosolic reactive oxygen species indicators p40 and p67 (NADPH oxidase 2). In addition, CPP inhibited the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, Toll-like receptor 4, and nuclear factor kappa B mRNA expressions induced by LPS. These findings demonstrate that CPP may ameliorate adipocyte dysfunction by suppressing oxidative damage and inflammatory responses through a new mechanism known as Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B-mediated signaling.

Comparative Brain Microanatomical and Neurochemical Alterations Following the Administration of Seven Oral Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapies in Swiss Mice

Over a decade after artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) approval as the most preferred anti-malarial drug. Seven ACTs can be sourced as over-the-counter medications in most African pharmacies without prescription. A comparative neurotoxicity of these ACTs was investigated in an in vivo experimental model. Swiss mice numbering 40, weighing 18 - 26 g were allotted to eight groups (n = 5). Group 1 (normal control [NC]), received distilled water 10 mL, while groups 2 to 8 were administered (5.71 mg artesunate+amodiaquine [AA]); (19.29 mg artesunate+mefloquine [AM]); (10.36 mg artesunate+sulfadoxine+pyrimethamine [ASP]); (19.29 mg artesunate+pyronaridine [APy]); (12.5 mg artemisinin+piperaquine [AP]); (15.42 mg dihydroartemisinin+piperaquine [DP]); and (8 mg artemether+lumefantrine [AL]) per kg body weights, respectively orally for 3 days, but for 2 days in group 6. Animals were sacrificed 24 hrs after last administration under ketamine anaesthesia (100 mg/kg, i.p), and excised brains were evaluated for neurochemical and neurohistological alterations. Oxidative stress markers: malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione significantly (p &lt; 0.05) increased as well as antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase in ACT-administered groups compared to NC. Neurohistology of hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) and cerebellum demonstrated vacuolations, neuronal hypertrophy and atrophy pyramidal, and Purkinje neurons. Immunohistochemistry with glial fibrillary acidic protein antibody demonstrated mild to mostly severe astrogliosis in the ACT-administered groups. In conclusion, oxidative stress markers and antioxidants were elevated in the order DP&gt;APy&gt;AP&gt;ASP&gt;AA&gt;AL&gt;AM. Together with the neurohistology, neurotoxicity were in the order DP&gt;ASP&gt;APy&gt;AP&gt;AL&gt;AA&gt;AM particularly in the hippocampus compared to the cerebellum. KEYWORDS: Artemisinin-based combination therapies, Cerebellum, CA1 region of the hippocampus, Neurodegeneration, Oxidative stress.

The Role of Ayahuasca in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cell Survival, Proliferation and Oxidative Stress.

The psychedelic beverage ayahuasca is originally obtained by Banisteriopsis caapi (B. caapi) (BC) and Psychotria viridis (P. viridis) (PV). However, sometimes these plant species are replaced by others that mimic the original effects, such as Mimosa hostilis (M. hostilis) (MH) and Peganum harmala (P. harmala) (PH). Its worldwide consumption and the number of studies on its potential therapeutic effects has increased. This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer properties of ayahuasca in human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. Thus, the maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of decoctions of MH, PH, and a mixture of these (MHPH) was determined. The activities of caspases 3 and 9 were evaluated, and the cell proliferation index was determined through immunocytochemical analysis (Ki-67). Two fluorescent probes were used to evaluate the production of oxidative stress and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was also evaluated. It was demonstrated that exposure to the extracts significantly induced apoptosis in Caco-2 cells, while decreasing cell proliferation. MH and MHPH samples significantly reduced oxidative stress and significantly increased glutathione peroxidase activity. No significant differences were found in SOD activity. Overall, it was demonstrated that the decoctions have a potential anticancer activity in Caco-2 cells.

Exploring the effects of varying levels of selenium-chitosan on production performance, egg quality, and immune health in laying japanese quail

The purpose of this research was to see how different levels of Se-chitosan, a novel organic source of Se, affected the production performance, egg quality, egg Se concentration, microbial population, immunological response, antioxidant status, and yolk fatty acid profile of laying Japanese quail. This experiment used a totally randomized design, with 5 treatments, 6 repeats, and 10 birds in each repetition. The dietary treatment groups were as follows: no Se supplementation (control group), 0.2 mg/kg Na-selenite supplementation, and 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 mg/kg Se-chitosan supplementation. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved linearly in quails fed different levels of Se-chitosan compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, Se-chitosan at concentrations of 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg demonstrated both linear and quadratic increases in albumen height, Haugh unit, and yolk color in fresh eggs compared to the control group. Additionally, Se-chitosan contributed to enhanced shell thickness and strength, along with an increased Se concentration in the yolk. Se-chitosan supplementation at different levels linearly and quadratically reduced coliforms (COL) while increasing lactic acid bacteria (LAB)/coliform ratios (P < 0.05). Se-chitosan supplementation linearly and quadratically increased the total antibody response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and IgG titers (P < 0.05). It also linearly decreased the level of malondialdehyde in fresh and stored egg yolks and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase linearly, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) both linearly and quadratically in quail blood serum (P < 0.05). Additionally, supplementation of Se-chitosan at levels of 0.2 and 0.6 mg/kg linearly decreased the ∑ n-6 PUFA/∑ n-3 PUFA ratio in the yolk compared to the control group (P < 0.05). It can be concluded that incorporating Se-chitosan as a novel organic source of Se in the diet of laying quails can enhance production performance, egg quality, egg Se concentration, yolk lipid oxidation, microbial population, immune response, antioxidant enzyme activity, and yolk fatty acid profile.

Intravesical Instillation of Hyaluronic Acid With Epidermal Growth Factor for Restoring Urothelial Denudation and Alleviating Oxidative Stress in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Interstitial Cystitis of Rats.

To investigate the efficacy of an intravesical instillation of hyaluronic acid (HA) combined with epidermal growth factor (EGF) for the treatment of interstitial cystitis (IC) using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced IC animal model. A total of 24 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to 4 groups: sham control, IC, HA, and treatment (HA/ EGF) groups. A polyethylene-50 tube was placed inside the bladder of each animal. IC was induced by twice-weekly instillations of LPS for 3 weeks, which resulted in chronic injury of the urothelium. Animals in the sham control group only received saline instillation. Treatment solutions of HA and HA/EGF were given on days 0, 7, and 14 after IC induction (400 μL of HA in a concentration of 0.4 mg/0.5 mL and 400 μL of NewEpi, a commercialized HA/EGF mixture containing 2 μg of EGF and 0.4 mg of sodium hyaluronate). Animals were sacrificed on day 21 for further examinations. The HA/EGF group showed visible improvement in hematuria with a significant reduction of red blood cells in the urine compared to the HA group. Histological examination revealed that HA/EGF treatment reversed the abnormalities developed in IC, including infiltration of inflammatory cells, irregular re-epithelialization, and fibrotic tissue. Moreover, HA/ EGF significantly reduced the levels of proinflammation cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin [IL]-6, and IL-1β) and substantially lowered the elevated oxidative stress biomarker malondialdehyde, yet restored the levels of antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, with superior results than HA treatment. Cystometry studies indicated that HA/EGF significantly prolonged intercontraction interval and increased micturition volume. HA/EGF has been demonstrated as a more effective treatment for enhancing the urothelium lining and reducing inflammatory changes to alleviate clinical symptoms associated with IC in rats, compared to HA alone.

Assessment of the effect of sodium tetraborate on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in lead-induced nephrotoxicity

Exposure to Pb, a toxic heavy metal, is a risk factor for renal damage. Borax, an essential trace element in cellular metabolism, is a naturally occurring compound found in many foods. This study investigated the effects of sodium tetraborate (ST), a source of borax, on renal oxidative stress and inflammation in rats exposed to Pb. Wistar Albino rats (n = 24) were divided into four groups: Control (0.5 mL, i.p. isotonic), Pb (50 mg/kg/day/i.p.), ST (4.0 mg/kg/day/oral), and Pb + ST groups. At the end of the five-day experimental period, kidney tissue samples were obtained and analyzed. Histopathologically, the Pb-induced damage observed in the Pb group improved in the Pb + ST group. Immunohistochemically, Pb administration increased the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, and caspase-3. When evaluated biochemically, Pb application inhibited catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) enzyme activities and activated superoxide dismutase enzyme activity. An increase in malondialdehyde levels was considered an indicator of damage. ST application increases glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity and decreased malondialdehyde levels. These results indicate that ST might play a protective role against Pb-induced renal damage via the upregulation of renal tissue antioxidants and cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and caspase-3 immunoexpression.

Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seed improves redox state and reverts extracellular matrix collagen deposition in skeletal muscle of sucrose-rich diet-fed rats.

Skeletal muscle (SkM) is a plastic and dynamic tissue, essential in energy metabolism. Growing evidence suggests a close relationship between intramuscular fat accumulation, oxidative stress (OS), extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and metabolic deregulation in SkM. Nowadays natural products emerge as promising alternatives for the treatment of metabolic disorders. We have previously shown that chia seed administration reverts SkM lipotoxicity and whole-body insulin resistant (IR) in sucrose-rich diet (SRD) fed rats. The purpose of the present study was to assess the involvement of OS and fibrosis in SkM metabolic impairment of insulin-resistant rats fed a long-term SRD and the effects of chia seed upon these mechanisms as therapeutic strategy. Results showed that insulin-resistant SRD-fed rats exhibited sarcopenia, increase in lipid peroxidation, altered redox state, and ECM remodeling-increased collagen deposition and lower activity of the metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) in SkM. Chia seed increased ferric ion reducing antioxidant power and glutathione reduced form levels, and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymes. Moreover, chia seed reversed fibrosis and restored the MMP-2 activity. This work reveals a participation of the OS and ECM remodeling in the metabolic alterations of SkM in our experimental model. Moreover, current data show novel properties of chia seed with the potential to attenuate SkM OS and fibrosis, hallmark of insulin-resistant muscle.

Reduced Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) Activity in Patients with Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a tropical parasitic infection that involves several factors in its pathogenesis, including oxidative stress. The oxidative stress in CL may deplete antioxidant nutrients. Objectives: The aim of the study was to measure glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in patients with CL. Methods: The investigation included 80 patients with CL and 80 healthy participants. A diagnostic kit was used to measure GPx activity. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in GPx activity in the CL patient group compared to the control group (P &lt; 0.001), which is related to increased oxidative stress in patients. Conclusions: According to the results, GPx enzyme activity can serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of treatment in patients with CL.

Improving the anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic activities of extra virgin olive oil by the incorporation of diallyl sulfide.

Development of novel functional foods is trending as one of the hot topics in food science and food/beverage industries. In the present study, the anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemic and histo-protective effects of the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) enriched with the organosulfur diallyl sulfide (DAS) (DAS-rich EVOO) were evaluated in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The ingestion of EVOO (500µL daily for two weeks) attenuated alloxan-induced elevated glucose, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), urea and creatinine. It also normalized the levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterols (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) and their consequent atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in diabetic animals. Additionally, EVOO prevented lipid peroxidation (MDA) and reduced the level of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in diabetic animals. Concomitantly, it enhanced the activity of the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), reducing thereby tissue oxidative stress injury. The overall histologic (pancreas, liver, and kidney) alterations were also improved after EVOO ingestion. The manifest anti-diabetic, lipid-lowering and histo-protective properties of EVOO were markedly potentiated with DAS-rich EVOO suggesting possible synergistic interactions between DAS and EVOO lipophilic bioactive ingredients. Overall, EVOO and DAS-rich EVOO show promise as functional foods and/or adjuvants for the treatment of diabetes and its complications.

Ameliorative effect of aqueous avocado seed extract against chromium‐induced oxidative stress and cellular damage in rabbit kidney

AbstractThe accumulation of chromium in renal tissues promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, genomic and cellular harm, and ultimately necrotic and apoptotic cell death induced by free radicals. Hence, the utilization of antioxidant phytochemicals becomes crucial for cellular defense against oxidative damage. This study endeavors to explore the potential protective effects of an aqueous avocado seed extract (ASE) on rabbit kidneys exposed to chromium‐induced damage. Fifteen adult rabbits were distributed into three groups: Group 1 was kept as the control. The second and third groups received a daily dose of K2Cr2O7 (5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. While the third group was given an oral dose of ASE (400 mg/kg). In rabbits administered with Cr (VI), kidney homogenates showed a marked increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA) (69.3 ± 4.1 nmol/g) along with a decrease in glutathione (59 ± 5.8 nmol/mg) content and the activity superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.5 ± 0.05 U/mg protein), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (16.7 ± 1.1 μmol/mg protein), and catalase (CAT) (73.8 ± 3.9 U/g protein) compared to the levels in control group. Also, the gene expression data for the enzymes SOD, GPx, and CAT dropped dramatically in kidney tissue following Cr (VI) injection. Additionally, Bowman's capsule and glomerulus showed degenerative alterations in the kidney's histopathology and immunohistochemistry. ASE treatment when administered along with Cr (VI) enhanced the activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and improved histopathological conditions. The findings of this study unequivocally show that avocado seed extract, which is rich in phenolic derivatives, is a potent nephroprotective agent that inhibits nephrotoxicity induced by Cr (VI) in rabbits.

Decreased antioxidant capacity in children with diabetic ketoacidosis

Objective. To analyze the levels of antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GP) against the background of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) children and adolescents. Materials and methods. The study involved examination of 74 children: 50 DKA children (study group) and 24 relatively healthy children (control group). The study group children were divided into two subgroups: subgroup 1 included children with DKA against the background of type 1 DM onset (n=27), subgroup 2 consisted of children with DKA against the background of chronic type 1 DM (n=23). SOD and GP concentrations in blood plasma were determined in all children by enzyme immunoassay. The reliability between the data was estimated using the Mann-Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman coefficient. Results. A significant decrease in SOD and GP in children with DKA was revealed as follows: 13130 [13005–18255] Pg/ml and 50.085 [42.02–70.325] Ng/ml, compared to controls: 16415 [13370–19935] Pg/ml and 84.695 [52.49–144.5] Ng/ml, respectively. Minimal SOD and GP were noted in patients with DKA at the background of chronic type 1 DM, compared to DM onset children. The study indicates a reliable correlation between age, duration of the disease, number of DKA in the history and low values of SOD and GP. Conclusion. Decreased antioxidant capacity was found in children with DKA in type 1 DM. SOD and GP can be considered in pediatric practice as markers of oxidative stress in DKA. In addition, an early detection of SOD and GP contributes to the efficient therapy of DKA in children and adolescents.