GST), Reduced Glutathione Research Articles

Study of Liposomes Containing Extract from the Leaves of Protium heptaphyllum (Aubl.) March in Animals Submitted to a Mutagenic Model Induced by Cyclophosphamide.

Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is an alkylating agent used as a chemotherapy agent in the treatment of cancer, but it has immunosuppressive effects. Protium heptaphyllum (P. heptaphyllum) is a plant rich in triterpenes and flavonoids, with some bioactive and therapeutic properties presented in the literature. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the chemoprotective potential of P. heptaphyllum extract inserted into liposomes against oxidative damage chemically induced by CPA. Male Swiss mice received 1.5 mg/kg of P. heptaphyllum liposomes as a pre-treatment for 14 consecutive days (via gavage) and 100 mg/kg of CPA in a single dose (via intraperitoneal) on the 15th day. After the experimental period, blood and organ samples were collected for histopathological and biochemical analyses, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), ascorbic acid (ASA), carbonyl protein, cytokine measurement, and micronucleus testing. The results showed that liposomes containing P. heptaphyllum extract have an antimutagenic effect against damage induced to DNA by CPA, and that they also protect against oxidative stress, as verified by the increase in the antioxidant enzymes SOD and GPx. The improvement in alkaline phosphatase and creatinine markers suggests a beneficial effect on the liver and kidneys, respectively. However, the depletion of GSH in the liver and brain suggests the use of antioxidants for the metabolism of molecules generated in these tissues. In general, these data show good prospects for the use of P. heptaphyllum liposomes as a cancer chemoprotective agent, as well as possible antioxidant action, conceivably attributed to the flavonoids present in the plant extract.

Investigation of crude methanolic extract from poison secreted by the Rhaebo gutattus on status redox antioxidant in mice

The study evaluated the antioxidant properties of a crude methanolic extract (CME) from Rhaebo guttatus poison in mice over a period of 7 and 30 days. The mice were divided into groups and treated with different concentrations of the extract (0; 8 μg mL-1; 16 μg mL-1 and 32 μg mL-1 or vehicle; 100 μL/animal/day; via gavage). The liver samples were analyzed for status redox parameters as catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). The results showed that the CME caused changes in the levels of various antioxidants and oxidative stress markers. At 7 days, there was an increase in TBARS levels (8 μg mL-1 dose) and GST activity (16 μg mL-1 dose), and a reduction in GSH levels (32 μg mL-1 dose) compared to the control group. At 30 days, TBARS and GSH levels returned to control values in the same period, but GSH increased (32 μg mL-1 dose) compared at 7 days; GST activity remained high after 30 days for 32 μg mL-1 dose compared other groups and time of treatment (7 days). Overall, the study suggests that the extract modulates antioxidant properties per se that can affect various markers of status redox in the liver of mice, mainly 16 μg mL-1 dose demonstrated to act under antioxidant enzymes in different times (7 or 30 days).

Biomarker response index in earthworms following chronic exposure to leachate from a closed dumpsite: Behavioral, cytotoxicity and antioxidant system alterations

Leachate, an effluent produced during solid waste decomposition, interacts directly with soil, mainly in dumpsite areas. Studies on terrestrial animal exposure to leachate are, however, lacking. Plants are the most frequently studied organisms, while animal studies, especially earthworms, are limited. Nevertheless, ecotoxicological assessments involving earthworms are crucial due to their role in soil health and ecosystem maintenance, which are paramount in understanding potential terrestrial ecosystem leachate effects. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate behavioral effects, sublethal cytotoxicity and antioxidant system alterations in Eisenia andrei earthworms chronically exposed to leachate from a closed dumpsite. Cytotoxicity was determined by coelomocyte density, viability and cell typing, while antioxidant system alterations were assessed through superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and metallothionein (MT) determinations. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonylation (PTC) levels were also determined as oxidative effect markers. Finally, the Biomarker Response Index (BRI) was assessed, aiming to quantitatively integrate the results of the investigated endpoints and establish a biological health state (BHS) for each leachate concentration. Leachate exposure led to leak responses at concentrations of up to 50%, but attraction at higher concentrations. Decreased cell density (28%) was observed after 48 days and reduced viability (50%), after 14 days of leachate exposure. The observed cell typing changes indicate anti-inflammatory immune system effects. Leachate exposure led to several antioxidant system alterations, increasing SOD (2–6 %), CAT (5–35 %) and GST (5–70 %) activities and GSH (7–37%) and MT (3–67%) levels. Earthworm antioxidant defenses were, however, able to prevent lipid peroxidation, which decreased (11–37%) following leachate exposure to concentrations above 12.5%, and PTC, which increased at 42 days (26%) and reduced at 56 days (12 %). This is the first PTC assessment in leachate-exposed earthworms. The increased carbonylation levels observed after 42 days alongside MDA decreases highlight the need for further research employing oxidative effect biomarkers other than MDA. Finally, an integrated approach employing the BRI was carried out, revealing mild initial changes evolving to moderate to major effects at the highest leachate exposure concentration, with an effect attenuation detected at the end of the experiment. In this sense, this study brings forth a significant novelty, employing a biomarker previously not assessed in earthworms, demonstrating an oxidative effect, alongside the use of the BRI as an integrative tool for the endpoints applied in this assessment.

Assessment of Plasma Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Metabolic Parameters of Dairy Heifers: Relationship with Success at First Service


 First insemination success is considered as good indicator of heifer fertility to ensure renewal of dairy herds. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between first insemination success and biomarkers of oxidative stress (OS). A total of 25 heifers were divided into two groups according to their success at first insemination: group FS+ (heifers that were pregnant at first service, n = 14) and group FS- (heifers that were not pregnant at first service, n = 11). The serum of these two groups were analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric Oxide (NO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as oxidative stress biomarkers and biochemical parameters. Heifers in the group FS+ showed no significant difference in all OS parameters compared to heifers in the group FS-. The OS parameters showed almost similar values in both groups except for GST and CAT where the difference was at the limit of significance. The plasma concentration of OS biomarkers assessed in our study were not related to first service success in heifers. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of oxidative status in the reproductive performance of heifers.

Characterization of Copper/Zinc Superoxide Dismutase Activity on Phascolosoma esculenta (Sipuncula: Phascolosomatidea) and Its Protection from Oxidative Stress Induced by Cadmium.

Phascolosoma esculenta, an economically important species inhabiting the high tide areas of the intertidal zone, is particularly sensitive to water pollution. Considering its potential as a bioindicator, studies on the ecotoxicology of P. esculenta are imperative. The toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) were analyzed by exposing P. esculenta to different concentrations of Cd (6, 24, 96 mg/L). In this study, the changes in the antioxidative indexes of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione s-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and microscale malondialdehyde (MDA) were recorded. Copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) is one of the most important free radical scavenging members. To reveal the antioxidative function of P. esculenta, an important member of the antioxidative system, designated Pe-Cu/Zn SOD, was cloned and analyzed. Phylogenic analysis revealed that Pe-Cu/Zn SOD was located in the invertebrate evolutionary branch of intracellular Cu/Zn SOD (icCu/Zn SOD). The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed that Pe-Cu/Zn SOD messenger ribonucleic acid was widely expressed in all tissues examined. The highest expression levels in coelomic fluid after Cd exposure indicated its function in the stress response. Using a prokaryotic expression system, we obtained a Pe-Cu/Zn SOD recombinant protein, which enhanced the heavy metal tolerance of Escherichia coli. In vivo assays also confirmed that the Pe-Cu/Zn SOD recombinant protein had an antioxidative and free radical scavenging ability. A Cd toxicity experiment, in which purified Pe-Cu/Zn SOD protein was injected into the body cavities of P. esculenta, showed that the reactive oxygen species content in the coelomic fluid of the experimental group was significantly lower compared with the control group. These results suggest that Pe-Cu/Zn SOD played a role in Cd detoxification by chelating heavy metal ions and scavenging reactive oxygen free radicals, and that P. esculenta could be used as a bioindicator to evaluate heavy metal pollution.

Evaluation of the developmental effects of a glyphosate-based herbicide complexed with copper, zinc, and manganese metals in zebrafish.

The use of glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH) has increased dramatically, being currently the most used herbicides worldwide. Glyphosate acts as a chelating agent, capable of chelate metals. The synergistic effects of metals and agrochemicals may pose an environmental problem as they have been shown to induce neurological abnormalities and behavioural changes in aquatic species. However, as their ecotoxicity effects are poorly understood, evaluating the impacts of GBH complexed with metals is an ecological priority. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the potentially toxic effects caused by exposure to a GBH (1 μg a.i. mL−1), alone or complexed with metals (Copper, Manganese, and Zinc (100 μg L−1)), at environmentally relevant concentrations, during the early period of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo development (96 h post-fertilization), a promising model for in vivo developmental studies. To clarify the mechanisms of toxicity involved, lethal and sublethal development endpoints were assessed. At the end of the exposure, biochemical and cell death parameters were evaluated and, 24 h later, different behavioural responses were assessed. The results showed that metals induced higher levels of toxicity. Copper caused high mortality, low hatching, malformations, and changes in biochemical parameters, such as decreased Catalase (CAT) activity, increased Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), Glutathione S-Transferase (GST), reduced Glutathione (GSH) and decreased Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, also inducing apoptosis and changes in larval behaviour. Manganese increased the activity of SODs enzymes. Zinc increased mortality, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, superoxide dismutase activity (SODs) and caused a decrease in AChE activity. Embryos/larvae exposed to the combination of GBH/Metal also showed teratogenic effects during their development but in smaller proportions than the metal alone. Although more studies are needed, the results suggest that GBH may interfere with the mechanisms of metal toxicity at the biochemical, physiological, and behavioural levels of zebrafish.

CoenzymeQ10, Biochanin A and Phloretin Attenuate Cr(VI)-Induced Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage by Stimulating Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway in the Experimental Model.

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] has emerged as a prevailing environmental and occupational contaminant over the past few decades. However, the knowledge is sparse regarding Cr(VI)-induced neurological aberrations, and its remediation through natural bioactive compounds has not been fully explored. This study intended to probe the possible invigorative effects of nutraceuticals such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), biochanin A (BCA), and phloretin (PHL) on Cr(VI) intoxicated Swiss albino mice with special emphasis on Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 gene expressions. Mice received potassium dichromate (75ppm) through drinking water and were simultaneously co-treated intraperitoneally with CoQ10 (10mg/kg), BCA, and PHL (50mg/kg) each for 30-day treatment period. The statistics highlight the elevated levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyl content (PCC) with a concomitant reduction in the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), total thiols (TT), catalase (CAT), and cholinesterase activities in the Cr(VI)-exposed mice. The collateral assessment of DNA fragmentation, DNA breakages, and induced histological alterations was in conformity with the above findings in conjugation with the dysregulation in the Nrf2 and associated downstream HO-1 and NQO1 gene expressions. Co-treatment with the selected natural compounds reversed the above-altered parameters significantly, thereby bringing cellular homeostasis in alleviating the Cr(VI)-induced conciliated impairments. Our study demonstrated that the combination of different bioactive compounds shields the brain better against Cr(VI)-induced neurotoxicity by revoking the oxidative stress-associated manifestations. These compounds may represent a new potential combination therapy due to their ability to modulate the cellular antioxidant responses by upregulating the Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 signaling pathway against Cr(VI)-exposed population. HIGHLIGHTS: Cr(VI)-associated heavy metal exposure poses a significant threat to the environment, especially to living organisms. Cr(VI) exposure for 30 days resulted in the free radical's generation that caused neurotoxicity in the Swiss albino mice. Natural compounds such as coenzyme Q10, biochanin A, and phloretin counteracted the neurotoxic effect due to Cr(VI) exposure in scavenging of free radicals by enhancing Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 gene expressions in maintaining the cellular homeostasis.

Investigation of the possible protective effect of Smilax fluminensis steud. leaf in mice subjected to oxidative stress by paracetamol

Paracetamol (PCM) is a drug widely used by the population as an antipyretic and analgesic. If administered in high doses it can cause liver damage, leading to hepatoxicity. The genus Smilax, found in temperate and tropical regions, is traditionally used by the population through the extract of leaves and roots for several conditions, such as in the treatment of syphilis, diabetes, asthma and as a diuretic action. Through this, Smilax fluminensis leaf extracts were used to evaluate the protective effect against oxidative stress induced by a high dose of PCM in mice that received the drug and after receiving treatment with crude extract and fractions. Plasma analysis was performed using as partate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol, in addition to biochemical techniques such as catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (ASA), substances reactive to thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) and carbonylated proteins (CARBONYL) of liver, brain and kidneys. Fraction 1 of the extract was the most promising, decreasing the plasma levels of AST and ALT, the levels of CAT and GST of the liver, together with GSH and in the renal and brain tissue there was a decrease in carbonylated proteins (PCM + F1 versus PCM ). Besides, fraction 1 proved to be hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic. It is concluded that fraction 1 of Smilax fluminensis leaves has good antioxidant activity in the face of the damage caused by the high dose of paracetamol.

Antioxidant system alterations and biological health status of earthworms following long-term exposure to antibiotic-contaminated poultry litter.

Poultry litter is widely applied as a fertilizer even though it is one of the main antibiotic sources to agricultural soils. Long-term sublethal effects (56 days) on the antioxidant system of Eisenia andrei earthworms following exposure to fluoroquinolone-contaminated poultry litter (enrofloxacin + ciprofloxacin) at 5.0, 10, and 20 g kg-1 were evaluated. The following biomarkers were assessed: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and a lipid peroxidation (LPO) proxy. Significant CAT and SOD increases, and a moderate positive correlation (ρ = 0.67, p < 0.05) between these enzymes was observed. Glutathione-S-transferase levels increased significantly at 10 g kg-1, while GSH exhibited a dose-dependent response at 5.0 mg kg-1 (4-106%), 10 mg kg-1 (28-330 %), and 20 mg kg-1 (45-472%). LPO levels exhibited a decreasing trend with increasing poultry litter concentrations of 8-170% (5.0 g kg-1), 7-104% (10 mg kg-1), and 3-6% (20 mg kg-1). A principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted increased SOD and CAT activities, possibly due to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations. Biological health status assessments based on the biomarker response index indicate major alterations in the first month of exposure and becoming moderate in the second month. These findings indicate an antioxidant system attenuation trend. It is possible, however, that successive poultry litter applications may reduce the long-term recovery capacity of the evaluated biomarkers.

Toxicity evaluation and oxidative stress response of fumaronitrile, a persistent organic pollutant (POP) of industrial waste water on tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus)

The study was designed to determine the impact of acute toxicity of fumaronitrile exposure through tissue damaging, oxidative stress enzymes and histopathological studies in gills, liver and muscle cells of freshwater tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus). In gill, liver, and muscle cells, biochemical indicators such as tissue damage enzymes (Acid Phosphatase (ACP), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)) and antioxidative enzymes (Superoxide Dismutase (SOD); Catalase (CAT); Glutathione-S-transferase (GST); Reduced Glutathione (GSH); Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) were quantified in the time interval of 30, 60 and 90 days exposure to the fumaronitrile. After 90 days, under 6 ppb exposure conditions, the acid phosphatase (ACP) levels of fish increased significantly in the gills (3.439 μmol/mg protein/min), liver (1.743 μmol/mg protein/min), and muscles (2.158 μmol/mg protein/min). After 90 days of exposure to the same concentration and days, ALP activity increased significantly in gills (4.354 μmol/mg protein/min) and liver (1.754 μmol/mg protein/min), but muscle cells had a little decrease in ALP activity (2.158 μmol/mg protein/min). The LDH concentration in gills following treatment with fumaronitrile over a period of 0–90 days was 3.573 > 3.521 > 2.245 μmol/mg protein/min over 30 > 60 > 90 days. However, at the same dose and treatment duration, a greater LDH level of 0.499 μmol/mg protein/min was found in liver and muscle cells. Histopathological abnormalities in the gills, liver, and muscle cells of treated fish were also examined, indicating that fumaronitrile treatment generated the most severe histological changes. The current study reveals that fumaronitrile exposure has an effect on Oreochromis mossambicus survival, explaining and emphasising the risk associated with this POP exposure to ecosystems and human populations.

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Melon (Citrallus Lanatus) Seed Oil on the Growth Performance and Antioxidant Status of Growing Rabbits

This study was carried out to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of melon (Citrallus lanatus) seed oil (WMO) on the growth performance and immune response of growing rabbits. Thirty-six (36), 5-6 weeks weaner rabbit of mixed breed and sex with an average weight of 435 g – 438 grams were randomly divided into four (4) treatments of nine rabbits per group and each rabbit served as a replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). The experiment lasted for 12 weeks and all other management practices were strictly observed. The basal diet was formulated according to the nutrient requirements of the rabbit according to NRC (1977). Treatment (T1) was fed basal diet with 0 % WMO, T2, T3, and T4 were fed basal diet supplemented with WMO at 0.2 %, 0.4 % and 0.6 % respectively. Results obtained were used to examine the average daily weight gain (ADWG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed: gain, mortality, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malonyl dialdehyde (MLA). ADWG, feed: gain, and mortality were significantly different (P˂0.05) among the treatments. ADFI increased as the level of WMO increases, though not at a significant level (P˃0.05). The highest mortality was recorded among animals in T1 (1.00 %), none was recorded in the other treatments (P˂0.05). Activities of SOD, GST, GSH, and MLA were significantly (P˃0.05) influenced by WMO. It was concluded that dietary supplementation of WMO up to 0.6 % enhanced growth performance, improved feed: gain, and had no negative effect on the antioxidant parameters of rabbits, it is safe and could be used to bridge the gap between food safety and production.

Ameliorative Effect of Graviola (Annona muricata) on Mono Sodium Glutamate-Induced Hepatic Injury in Rats: Antioxidant, Apoptotic, Anti-inflammatory, Lipogenesis Markers, and Histopathological Studies.

Simple SummaryFood additives, especially monosodium glutamate (MSG), induces serious liver disorders. This study premeditated to investigate the effect of Graviola extract (GE) on hepatic and cellular alterations induced by MSG. Our result revealed that GE administration normalized the oxidative stress markers, as well as the proinflammatory cytokines, in addition to downregulation of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and FAS, hepatic fatty acid synthase, and led to the upregulation of the silent information regulator protein one (SIRT1) gene. This is the first report investigating the intracellular pathway and mechanism of Graviola extract’s action in alleviating the MSG supplementation injuries.Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used food additive, and there is a trepidation that MSG plays a critical role in multiple hepatic disorders. This study was planned to investigate Graviola extract (GE) effects on hepatic and cellular alterations induced by MSG. Fifty Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups: control (received normal saline), Graviola (received 200 mg/kg body weight), MSG (received 2.4 gm MSG/kg, 15% of Lethal dose (LD50) of MSG), Graviola + monosodium glutamate (MSG + GE; received GE, 200 mg/kg/day and MSG 2.4 gm/kg body weight (BW) for the next four weeks), and monosodium glutamate + Graviola (received MSG only (2.4 gm/kg BW) daily for four weeks, then concomitant with Graviola (200 mg/kg BW) daily for the next four weeks. MSG and GR were administered orally for eight weeks. Our results showed that MSG caused a significant increase in oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) level, a tumor protein (P53), hepatic cellular damage, as well as proapoptotic markers caspase-3, and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2)-like protein 4 (Bax). A significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and an antiapoptotic agent B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCl-2) was observed. The detected MSG effects were normalized by Graviola administration, either a prophylactic or protecting dose. Besides, Graviola reduced the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and hepatic fatty acid synthase (FAS) and led to the upregulation of the silent information regulator protein one gene expression gene (SIRT1).In conclusion, the results suggest that Gaviola’s interrelated antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties are potential mechanisms to enhance hepatic deficits and protect the liver. Graviola can, therefore, be considered a promising hepatoprotective supplement. Additionally, further human clinical trials are also necessary to validate the present research.

Oxidative stress in benthic oligochaete worm, Tubifex tubifex induced by sublethal exposure to a cationic surfactant cetylpyridinium chloride and an anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate

The present study was assessed to determine the in vivo toxic effects of a cationic surfactant, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in terms of oxidative stress biomarkers in benthic oligochaete worm Tubifex tubifex for 14 days. The investigation demonstrated that sublethal concentrations of CPC (0.0213, and 0.0639 mg L−1) and SDS (1.094 and 3.092 mg L−1)induced paramount alterations in the oxidative stress enzymes in Tubifex tubifex. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) exhibited an initial notable increase in their activities in the surfactants exposed worms at 1d and 7d of exposure period followed by consequential reduction at 14d exposure period with respect to control, while catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities markedly incremented gradually throughout the exposure periods. Through the construction of the correlation matrix and integrated biomarker response (IBR), the effects of CPC and SDS on Tubifex tubifex were distinguished. These results indicate that exposure to these cationic and anionic surfactants modulates the levels of oxidative stress enzymes in Tubifex tubifex.

Parsley Extract Improves Physio-biochemical Traits and the Activity of the Defense System in Mallow (Corchorus Olitorius L.) Under Na2SO4 Salinity

Salinization of the agricultural soil, caused by natural factors or human activities, is one of the greatest challenges facing food production in the current time, as it negatively affects soil construction along with growth and yield of crops. In this study, an experiment was conducted on mallow plants (Corchorus olitorius L.) growing in pots to determine the effect of Na2SO4 stress on growth, physio-biochemical attributes, as well as antioxidative response, and the effect of parsley extract on salinity stress. Treatments consisted of 100 mM Na2SO4 and 10% parsley extract as single or combined treatments. Na2SO4 stress significantly reduced the plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, amino acids, glycinebetaine (GB), tannins, glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbic acid (AsA), and DPPH activity, while it significantly increased soluble sugars, proteins, proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), phenolics, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant activity (via phosphomolybdate assay (PMA)) and reducing power activity (RPA). Pre-soaking of mallow seeds in parsley extract enhanced growth, pigments, phenolics, tannins, CAT, GST, DPPH and RPA compared to salt-stressed plants. Integrative treatments of parsley with Na2SO4 remarkably increased growth, pigments, sugars, GR, GST, DPPH and RPA of stressed plants, but these treatments declined proteins, amino acids, proline, GB, lipid peroxidation (MDA), tannins, CAT, SOD and GSH in stressed mallow plants. Moreover, priming with parsley extract restored the ionic homeostasis in salt-stressed mallow. The results of this study recommend pre-soaking of mallow seeds in parsley extract to confer mallow growth in moderate saline soils.

Acute exposure to the fungicide penconazole affects some biochemical parameters in the crayfish (Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823).

Penconazole is one of the most widely used fungicides all over the world, and since it spreads to large environments, its toxic effects on non-target organisms are of great concern. The toxic effects of penconazole on crayfish (Astacus leptodactylus), which is a bioindicator in freshwater ecosystems and consumed economically, are not known. Therefore, in this study, the purpose was to contribute to the literature on the potential harmful effects of penconazole on a non-target species, Astacus leptodactylus. For this aim, the acute toxicity (96 h) of penconazole was examined. The 96-h LC50 value of penconazole was detected as 18.7 mg L-1. Four concentrations of penconazole (18.7 mg L-1, 9.35 mg L-1, 4.68 mg L-1, 2.34 mg L-1) were applied to crayfish for 96 h. The results showed that penconazole had destructive effects on esterase mechanisms by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carboxylesterase (CaE) activities. Significant increases were observed in all antioxidant parameters (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA)) in all doses except the lowest concentration (2.34 mg L-1). All adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activities (Na+/K+-ATPase, Mg2+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, total ATPase) had significant dose-related inhibition in both gill and muscle tissues. In summary, our findings show that acute penconazole administration to crayfish causes significant toxic effects on esterase, antioxidative parameters, and metabolic enzymes.

Evaluation of the Oxidative Stress Status in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Liver Induced by Three Typical Organic UV Filters (BP-4, PABA and PBSA).

Organic UV filters are a kind of emerging pollutants, which have been widely used in personal care products (PCPs). This study evaluated the effects of benzophenone-4 (BP-4), 4-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), and 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid (PBSA) on the selected indices of antioxidative responses in zebrafish (Danio rerio) liver. Zebrafish were exposed to two different doses (i.e., 0.5 and 5 mg L−1) of semi-static water with three individual compounds. Liver samples were collected on 7 and 14 days to analyze biochemical indicators, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Oxidative stress occurred in zebrafish liver with significantly changed indicators during the whole exposure period. Different experimental groups could induce or inhibit the activity of antioxidant enzymes with varying degrees. With a prolonged exposure time and increased exposure dose, the hepatic lipid peroxidation was also obviously observed. Moreover, the toxicity order of three organic UV filters was analyzed using the integrated biomarker response (IBR) index and the results indicate that exposure to PABA for 7 days at 0.5 mg L−1 and PBSA for 7 days at 5 mg L−1 induced the most severe oxidative stress in the liver of zebrafish.

The Ethanol Leaf Extract of Moringa Oleifera Blunts Isoproterenol‐induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats through Mitigation of Free Radical Production and Down Regulation of Cardiac Troponin and Nuclear Factor Kappa B

Moringa oleifera is a plant that is widely distributed in the tropical environment and is used for medicinal purpose. It is believed that every part of this plant has medicinal value. The study evaluated the effect of the ethanol leaf extract of Moringa oleifera (EMOL) on isoproterenolinduced myocardial infarction in rats. Thirty‐five male Wistar rats weighing between 100 and 160 mg/kg were used for the study. The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of 7 animals per group. Group A (control) animals were given normal saline, Group B (Toxicant) animals were given 100 mg/kg of isoproterenol administered subcutaneously on day 8. Groups C and D animals were given 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of ethanol leaf extract of Moringa oleifera (ELMO) respectively for 7 days and on day 8 were given 100mg/kg of isoproterenol. Group E animals received 100 mg/kg of Moringa oleifera only for 7 days. On day 9 blood sample was taken for serum analysis of CK‐MB, Myeloperoxidase, Nitric oxide and Total protein, thereafter the animals were sacrificed via cervical dislocation and heart harvested for biochemical assays for the analysis of Advanced oxidative protein product (AOPP), Protein Carbonyl (PC), Malonaldehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione‐S‐Transferase (GST), Reduced glutathione (GSH), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Total thiol, Non‐protein thiol and Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation), histopathology and immunohistochemistry (CTnI, NF‐KB).In this study there is significant (p &lt; 0.05) reduction in SOD, GPx, GST, increased AOPP, PC, MDA, MPO levels and H2O2 generation in toxicant group (group B) but there was corresponding increase in the antioxidant enzymes and decrease in markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in ELMO treated groups. The toxicant also caused severe histopathological changes in the heart tissues but these were corrected by all the doses of the extract. There was increase expression of CTnI and NF‐KB in the toxicant group; pre‐treatment with ELMO however caused significant down regulation of all these proteins signifying its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative property.In conclusion, these experiments showed that ethanol leaf extract of Moringa oleifera possess cardiac protective effect through mitigation of free radicals production and down regulation of the studied cytokines.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Temporal relationship between the levels of melatonin and different antioxidants in the liver of a surface feeding carp Catla catla

ABSTRACTPresent study provided the first information on temporal relationship between melatonin concentrations and oxidative status of the liver in any fish. Accordingly, the liver tissue homogenates of carp Catla catla were used to measure the diurnal levels of melatonin, malondialdehyde (MDA) – an intra-cellular stress marker, and different antioxidants [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRd), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH)] during four distinct reproductive seasons of an annual cycle. The hepatic melatonin titres exhibited significant daily variations with a peak in early dark-phase and nadir at midday in each season, though its diurnal values were highest in post-spawning phase and lowest during spawning. Likewise, the activities/levels of different antioxidants, other than GSH, displayed diurnal peak in early dark-phase and seasonal peak during post-spawning phase. The hepatic MDA levels were diurnally maximum in midday, and seasonally highest during spawning and lowest in post-spawning phase. Although hepatic melatonin titres were positively correlated with the levels of each antioxidant, MDA levels were negatively correlated with the levels of both melatonin and each antioxidant. Collectively, current study underlines possible influences of endogenous hepatic melatonin on the oxidative status of liver relating to seasonal reproductive events in a fish species.

Relationship of brain antioxidant protection of aged mice with memory enhancing efficiency of Aegiceras corniculatum leaves

The present study was investigated the brain antioxidant status and the memory enhancing efficiency of methanolic extract of Aegiceras corniculatum (AC) leaves in mice. The effects of 7-day oral administration of extracts at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg BW were examined in both adult and aged group of mice. The memory enhancing activity was assessed by passive avoidance (PA) test and Morris water maze test (MWM). Amnesia was induced by scopolamine in MWM test. Both groups were subdivided into three groups (n = 10/groups) for PA test and five groups (n = 5/groups) for MWM test. Instantly after experiment, mice brain homogenates were subjected to determination of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). In PA test, both doses were significantly increased step through and escape latencies in both group of mice, whereas in MWM test, AC extract also significantly attenuated the effects of scopolamine compared to negative control animals in respective models. Additionally, the highest levels of SOD, CAT, GSH and GST were observed in the aged groups, whereas GR and GSHpx were observed in the adult groups. Moreover, AChE, TBARS and ROS levels were significantly decreased in both groups of mice in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological analysis also showed the protected effect of AC. These findings together that A. corniculatum has potent antioxidant properties, capable of enhancing cognitive function in both adult and aged mice.

Seasonal Alterations in Oxidative Stress Biomarkers of Freshwater Snails: Bellamya bengalensis and Lymnaea acuminata from Malangaon Reservoir of Dhule District, Maharashtra, India

Objectives: Two freshwater snails Bellamya bengalensis and Lymnaea acuminata from Malangaon reservoir of Dhule district (Maharashtra, India) were examined to study biomarkers of oxidative stress with the investigation of antioxidant enzyme activities. Methods: The experimental snail species were collected seasonally and acclimatized in the laboratory. Their digestive glands were used to study the activities of oxidative biomarker enzymes like Lipid PerOxidation (LPO), Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), SuperOxide Dismutase (SOD), CATalase (CAT) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx). All investigations were carried out on double beam spectrophotometer (Elico BL 200). Findings: It was observed that, LPO level in B. bengalensis was 0.63, 0.55and 0.60(nmol of MDA formed/mg protein) while in L.acuminata 0.74, 0.67 and 0.70 respectively in summer, monsoon and winter seasons. GST activity was 23.41,15.73 and 19.61 in B. engalensis while 26.29, 18.34 and 22.29 in L.acuminata. Level of GSH was 0.083, 0.117and 0.094 (μM/g wet tissue) in B. bengalensis while in L.acuminata it was 0.018, 0.056 and 0.026 (μM/g wet tissue) in three seasons. The level of SOD was 20.87, 24.83 and 23.33 (U/mg of protein) in B. bengalensis while in L. acuminata it was 18.32, 22.35 and 20.73 in three seasons. Level of CAT was 9.23, 13.20, and 11.56 (U/mg of protein) in B. bengalensis while in L.acuminata it was 7.02, 10.53 and 8.86 (U/mg of protein) respectively during three seasons. GPx movement was 6.57, 8.50 and 7.48 (mg of GSH utilized/min/mg protein) in B. bengalensis. It was 5.05, 8.07 and 7.04 (mg of GSH utilized/min/mg protein) in L.acuminata respectively in three seasons. The obtained data also showed the lowest levels of LPO and activities of GST and uppermost doings of SOD, CAT, and GPx and uppermost heights of GSH in two snail types in rainy period than summer and winter period. This designates that in summer, the snails were under more conservation stress than winter and rainy periods. Application: It was decided that changes in antioxidant enzymes and LPO and GST activity can be used as tool in ecological nursing packages.