GPx Activity Research Articles

Effects of fucoidan on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant ability, digestive enzyme activity, and hepatic morphology in juvenile common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Fucoidan with its excellent biological activities such as growth promotion, antioxidant and strong immunity, is widely used in animal production. The present study was conducted to investigate the influences of feeding fucoidan on growth performance, biochemical indices, immunity, the antibacterial ability of plasma, the digestive enzyme activity of the intestine, antioxidant capacity, and the histological structure of liver in juvenile common carp. Five experimental diets added with 0 (Diet 1), 500 (Diet 2), 1,000 (Diet 3), 1,500 (Diet 4), and 2,000 (Diet 5) mg/kg fucoidan were fed to triplicate groups of 30 fish (35.83 ± 0.24 g) respectively for 8 weeks. The results showed that fish fed diets with a fucoidan supplementation of 1,666.67–1,757 mg/kg might have the best growth performance (p< 0.05). The levels of plasma total protein (TP) and albumin (ALB) in Diet 3, Diet 4, and Diet 5 were higher than those in Diet 1 and Diet 2 (p< 0.05). Moreover, the contents of plasma C3, LYZ, and IgM; the antibacterial ability of serum; and the activity of SOD, CAT, POD, and GPX in the liver, and ACP, AKP, LPS, AMS, and TRY in the intestine significantly improved; the contents of LPO and MDA in the liver were notably decreased in diets with fucoidan supplement (p< 0.05). Furthermore, the activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the contents of total bilirubin (TB) and glucose (Glu) in Diet 5 were the highest among the groups. Meanwhile, proinflammatory factors (plasma IL-6 and IL-1β) had a higher expression, but anti-inflammatory factors (plasma IL-1) had a lower expression in Diet 5 (p > 0.05). It indicated that a higher dose (2,000 mg/kg) of fucoidan may induce inflammation and metabolic disorders. Interestingly, histological results of liver also indicated that dietary fucoidan intake in certain amounts (500–1,500 mg/kg) could ameliorate hepatic morphology, but the high dosage (2,000 mg/kg) probably damaged the liver. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the application of fucoidan as a functional additive to juvenile common carp. The results of the present study can be used to guide the application of fucoidan in healthy aquaculture and can further reveal the effect and mechanism of fucoidan on the nutritional physiology of aquatic animals.

Selenium Biomarkers and Their Relationship to Cardiovascular Risk Parameters in Obese Women.

A cross-sectional study was carried out with 210 women divided into a case group (obese, n = 84) and a control group (eutrophic, n = 126). Body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and hip and neck circumference were measured and the waist-hip ratio and conicity index were calculated. Selenium in plasma, erythrocytes and urine, erythrocyte GPx activity, lipid profile, Castelli I and II indices, and systolic and diastolic blood (DBP) pressure were evaluated. Mean dietary selenium intake (µg/kg/day) and plasma and erythrocyte concentrations were lower in the obese group compared to the healthy group (p < 0.001). while urinary selenium concentrations were higher (p < 0.001). There was a statistical difference between groups regarding cardiovascular risk parameters: waist circumference, neck circumference, waist-hip ratio, conicity index, triacylglycerols (TGC), and lipoproteins rich in triacylglycerols (VLDL-c) (p > 0.05). There was a negative correlation between plasma selenium concentrations and total cholesterol (TC), non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c), and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Urinary selenium correlated negatively with waist circumference and hip circumference and positively with neck circumference, TC, TGC, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c), non-HDL, and VLDL-c. There was a negative correlation between dietary selenium and waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, neck circumference, conicity index, non-HDL cholesterol, LDL-c, and Castelli indices I and II, as well as a positive correlation with HDL-c and diastolic blood pressure. Women with obesity present changes in their nutritional status related to selenium, as well as increased cardiovascular risk parameters. Thus, the positive role of selenium in protecting the risk of cardiovascular disease is likely.

Kuersetin'in Sipermetrin Kaynaklı Mide Hasarı Üzerine Etkileri: Oksidatif Stres, Enflamasyon ve Apoptozun Rolü

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of quercetin (QUE) on cypermethrin (CYP) induced gastrotoxicity in rats. 35 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups, 7 in each group. In the study, 25 and 50 mg/kg QUE were administered orally 30 min after 25 mg/kg cypermethrin was administered to rats for 28 days. Oxidative stress, inflammation, ER stress, apoptosis and autophagy markers were biochemically analyzed in gastric tissues. Additionally, histological analysis was performed for microscopic evaluation of gastric tissue. The results revealed that QUE prevented tissue damage by reducing CYP-induced lipid peroxidation (MDA) and increasing GSH, SOD, CAT and GPx activities. It also showed anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing inflammatory markers such as NF-𝜅B, IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS and COX-2. QUE administration down-regulated CYP-induced increased PERK, ATF6, Caspase-3 and Beclin-1 markers. In addition, administration of QUE ameliorated the pathological tissue damage in gastric tissue due to CYP. The data of this study show that Que suppresses CYP-induced gastric toxicity by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, ER stress, apoptosis a autophagy.

Oxydative stress in type 2 diabetic patients: involvement of HIF-1 alpha AND mTOR genes expression

Biochemical and genetic mechanisms of oxidative stress (OS) developing in blood of patients with type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were studied. Twenty patients with T2DM and 10 healthy persons participated in this study. Lipid peroxidation, the content of protein carbonyls and H2O2 production were measured in blood plasma and erythrocytes as OS biomarkers. Activity of SOD, catalase, and GPx as well as reduced glutathionе (GSH) level in plasma and erythrocytes were estimated. The gene expression of key regulators of oxygen and metabolic homeostasis (HIF-1α and mTOR) in leukocytes was studied. It was found a significant rise of TBARS and protein carbonyls content in plasma as well as of H2O2 production in erythrocytes from patients with T2DM compared to control. The diabetic patients also demonstrated an increase in the SOD and catalase activity in plasma and significantly lower GSH content and GPx activity in erythrocytes compared to the healthy participants. The established marked inhibition of mTOR gene expression and the tendency to an increase in HIF-1α gene expression in leukocytes of patients with T2DM may serve as a protective mechanism which counteracts OS developing and oxidative cell damage. Keywords: HIF-1α, mTOR, oxidative stress, type 2 diabetes mellitus

Seed Priming Based on Iodine and Selenium Influences the Nutraceutical Compounds in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Crop.

The use of trace elements in agriculture as a complement to crop fertilization programs is a practice that is gaining importance and relevance worldwide. Iodine and selenium perform essential functions in human health, related to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, acting as antioxidants and antiproliferatives, and their limited intake through food consumption can cause malnutrition, reflected in the abnormal development and growth of humans. This research aimed to evaluate the nutraceutical quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in response to seed priming based on KIO3 (0, 100, 150, 200, 250 mg L-1) and Na2SeO3 (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3 mg L-1), performed by interaction from a 52-factorial design and by independent factors in a 24-h imbibition time. The tomato crop was established under greenhouse conditions in 10-L polyethylene containers containing peat moss and perlite 1:1 (v/v). Regarding non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds, lycopene, β-carotene and flavonoid contents in tomato fruits significantly increased with KIO3 and Na2SeO3 treatments; however, vitamin C content was negatively affected. KIO3 increased the phenol and chlorophyll-a contents of leaves. In relation to enzymatic activity, KIO3 positively influenced GSH content and PAL activity in tomato fruits. KIO3 also positively influenced GSH content in leaves while negatively affecting PAL and APX activities. Na2SeO3 favored GSH content and GPX activity in tomato fruits and leaves. Na2SeO3 negatively affected the antioxidant capacity of hydrophilic compounds by ABTS in fruits and leaves and favored hydrophilic compounds by DPPH in leaves. Seed imbibition based on KIO3 and Na2SeO3 is a method that is implemented in the tomato crop and presents interesting aspects that favor the nutraceutical quality of tomato fruits, which may contribute to increasing the intake of these minerals in humans through tomato consumption.

Tannic acid may ameliorate doxorubicin-induced changes in oxidative stress parameters in rat spleen.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent and broad-spectrum drug widely used in the treatment of cancer. However, the toxicity and side effects of DOX on various organs limit its clinical use. Approaches using natural antioxidants with these drugs have the potential to alleviate negative side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective effect of tannic acid, a polyphenolic compound found naturally in plants, against DOX-induced spleen toxicity. Expression levels of Alox5, Inos, IL-6, Tnf-α, Casp-3, Bax, SOD, GST, CAT and GPx genes were determined using cDNAs obtained from spleen tissues of rats treated with DOX, tannic acid and both. In addition, SOD, CAT, GPx and GST enzyme activities, and GSH and MDA levels were measured in tissues. In the spleen tissues, DOX caused a decrease in the level of GSH and an increase in the level of MDA. In addition, it was determined that DOX had a suppressive effect on CAT, GST, SOD and GPx mRNA levels and its enzyme activities, which are antioxidant system components. The mRNA expression levels of proinflammatory cytokine markers, apoptotic genes, and some factors involved in cell metabolism showed a change compared to the control after DOX application. However, as a result of tannic acid treatment with DOX, these changes approached the values of the control group. The findings showed that tannic acid had a protective effect on the changes in the oxidative stress and inflammation system in the rat spleen as a result of the application of tannic acid together with DOX.

Assessment of glutathione peroxidase enzyme response and total antioxidant status in oral cancer - Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Oxidative stress induced by free radical accumulation contributes to many pathologies, including cancer. Antioxidant defense system fails to scavenge free radicals when it is excessively accumulated. Assessing individual antioxidant enzymes and total antioxidant capacity could direct the customized therapeutic strategies. Evaluation of total antioxidant status and enzyme glutathione peroxidase activity in the oral cancer group compared to the healthy control group. The literature search included databases PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley Online Library, Cochrane and Cross Reference between 1999 and 2021. The database search was completed in the month of August 2022. The extracted data were analyzed by Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) version 3 software (Biostat Inc. Englewood, NJ). Based on search strategies, 1435 articles have been retrieved from the database. In the segregated articles, 1365 were excluded due to duplicated articles, animal studies, low-quality studies, articles unrelated to the research question, and with unmatched objectives. Based on inclusion criteria, 70 articles were selected for full-text valuation. However, 33 articles were found highly suitable for inclusion and data extraction. Finally, 11 articles were selected for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis of four included studies of tissue samples showed a significantly (p < .001) increased GPx activity in the oral cancer group, when compared to the control group, whereas three included studies of erythrocyte samples displayed a significantly (p < .001) decreased GPx activity in the oral cancer group than the control group with the pooled standardized mean difference value of -2.766 moles/min/g Hb at 95% CI (-3.297 to -2.234). The meta-analysis of the included studies depicted an insignificant (p = .947) reduction of salivary TAS levels in the oral cancer group when compared to the control group. Our systematic review and meta-analysis depict antioxidant GPx enzyme activity in the regional tissue samples of the oral cancer group differs from other systemic biological fluid samples compared to the healthy control group.

Physiological and biochemical changes in response to Moringa oleifera biostimulant in petunia plants under water deficit

The present paper aimed to evaluate the effects of LME (Moringa oleifera leaf extract) in modifying growth, ornamental value and several physiological and chemical parameters of petunia (Petunia hybrida E.Vilm.) ‘GO!Tunia® Neon Pink’. Three level of water deficit were considered: control (100% of WCC, Water Container Capacity = 100% CC), 60% and 40% of WCC; for each level treatments with LME were also considered. Water deficit reduced growth parameters compared with full irrigation and LME application promoted almost all the growth parameters in both control and stressed conditions. The behavior in growth parameters is correlated with a decrease in photosynthesis activity and plant water status. Deficit irrigation reduced the Relative Water Content (RWC) without differences linked to LME application. The chlorophyll content was unchanged for effect of water deficit and enhanced by LME treatment. The capacity to accumulate protective compounds (Proline, MDA) allowed plant to reduce the negative effects of water stress; LME treatment is not always able to increase these compounds in more stressed plants. LME application increased GPX and SOD activities in plants grown under drought stress, and this facilitated the ROS scavenging and maintenance of plant growth under stress. Total phenol compounds (TPC) showed significant differences in relation to the water deficit treatments, but not to biostimulants; the interaction effect was significant. Total soluble sugars in the leaf tissues were significantly affected only by deficit irrigation treatments. Drought stress also affected the production of endogenous level of hormones and amino acid. The highest content for almost all free amino acids was observed in the most stressed treatment (40% CC and 40% CC + LME). The response of petunia plants to water deficit was related to its ability to decrease aerial growth and to modify leaf gas exchange, increasing secondary osmolytes and enzyme activity to contrast the ROS activity.

CARD2: Plasma Homocysteine and Oxidative Stress Markers May Predict the Stress Burden of Human Hearts Donated After Circulatory Death

Background: Initial result of heart transplantation using donation after circulatory death (DCD) heart with warm ischemic time (WIT) less than 30 minutes was encouraging. However, little is known about how donor respond to WIT systemically and its impact on the heart with subsequent cold storage as used in normothermic regional perfusion(NRP) on the DCD hearts. Since elevated homocysteine (Hcy) and oxidative stress burden in cardiovascular system have been associated with ischemia, we investigated if circulating Hcy, oxidative stress and antioxidant were elevated in DCD blood and myocardium and if there is temporal relationship with the WIT and subsequent cold storage. Methods: We studied 12 human DCD hearts for research (WIT range:20-110 min). They were assigned to 3 groups of WIT [20 (n=4), 40 (n=5), ≥60 (n=3) min.]. Two time-point donor blood samples were collected from each donor at the baseline (prior to or at extubation) and at the cross-clamp. All hearts received del Nido cardioplegia before they were placed at cold storage for 6 hours. Left ventricular (LV) biopsies were performed at hour 0,2,4 and 6. Circulating Hcy, oxidative stress (oxidized low-density lipoprotein: OxLDL, malondialdehyde: MDA) and total antioxidant in blood were quantified. The MDA and GPx activity (glutathione peroxidase: antioxidant) were quantified in cardiac biopsies. Results: Change in plasma Hcy (Fig.1A), oxidative stress (Fig.1B,C) and antioxidant (Fig.1D) found to be comparable between the 3 groups at baseline; while significant differences were noticed in samples at cross-clamping; especially in DCD≥60 groups. The WIT found to be positively correlated Hcy and oxidative stress at cross-clamping; and negatively correlated with antioxidant (p<0.05,Table:1). The myocardial oxidative stress (MDA) found to be minimal at baseline (DCD20 and 40), and slightly elevated at 2 hrs. and maintained at similar levels at 4 and 6 hrs. of cold storage (Fig.1E); while a preexisting high oxidative stress at baseline in DCD≥60, an exponential increase during the cold storage indicating severity of stress burden. Temporal decrease in cardiac antioxidant (GPx) found to be more pronounced in DCD≥60 group, while the rates of change are comparable in DCD:20 and 40 groups (Fig.1F). The change of blood markers was found to be correlated with change of myocardial markers(Table:1). Conclusions: Systemic warm ischemia promoted hyperhomocystenemia and increased oxidative stress and might be used as initial screening biomarkers for the stress burden on the donor hearts. The correlation between blood and myocardial markers suggested the systemic markers can potentially be used in predicting stress burden of donor hearts. The duration of cold storage was related to progressive increase in myocardial oxidative stress and diminished antioxidant status. We recommend rejecting DCD hearts with WIT≥60 minutes, as both the blood and tissue data indicating maximum oxidative stress burden in this group.

Prooxidant-antioxidant balance in seminal and blood plasma of men with idiopathic infertility and infertile men in combination with rheumatoid arthritis

Background. Male infertility is one of the most serious medical and social problems. Idiopathic infertility accounts for about 30 % of cases of infertile men. Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with a decreased fertility potential. The aim of the present work was to determine the lipid peroxidation level and the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in seminal plasma and blood plasma of infertile men with idiopathic infertility and concomitant autoimmune joint pathology (rheumatoid arthritis). Materials and Methods. 45 infertile men aged 22–48 were examined. They were divided into 2 groups: first group – 23 somatically healthy patients with idiopathic infertility; second group – 22 infertile men with rheumatoid arthritis. The control group consisted of 27 males with normal semen profile according to the WHO criteria and confirmed parenthood. The concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance and activity of antioxidant enzymes were measured in the blood and seminal plasma. Results. When analyzing the seminal fluid, we found that the TBARS content was 4-fold greater in infertile men with autoimmune pathology compared to fertile men (p &lt;0.001), whereas, in patients with idiopathic infertility its level was within the normal range. The activation of lipid peroxidation in infertile men with idiopathic infertility and in combination with rheumatoid arthritis was accompanied by a statistically significant decrease in the activity of enzymes of glutathione antioxidant system. It should be noted that more pronounced disorders of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity were found in seminal plasma compared to blood plasma. Conclusions. (1) An increased lipid peroxidation was observed in seminal and blood plasma of infertile men in combination with rheumatoid arthritis compared to normospermic men, whereas no differences were observed between men with idiopathic infertility and fertile men; (2) An impaired antioxidant status was observed in seminal and blood plasma of both men with idiopathic infertility and infertile men in combination with rheumatoid arthritis compared to normospermic men; (3) infertile men in combination with rheumatoid arthritis showed a significantly higher lipid peroxidation levels compared to men with idiopathic infertility, whereas no differences were observed in GPx and GR activity between groups.

Anticancer Effects of Alpha-lipoic Acid on A172 and U373 Human Glioblastoma Cells

The high mortality rate of Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients is partly due to the invasive behavior of the tumor cells. Given the increased resistance to conventional therapies of invasive cells after surgical operations, current treatments are ineffective. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of GBM cell invasion is critical for the development of successful therapeutic approaches. Natural small molecules and metabolites are widely used as chemotherapeutic and adjuvant agents in cancer treatments because they have strong anticancer properties and minimal side effects. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that has been found to reduce the level of ROS and increase GPx activity in cancer patients. In this study, we analyzed the in-vitro cytotoxic potential and apoptotic effect in A172 and U373 cells in the presence of various concentrations (7.8-500 µM) of ALA. We also investigated scratch assay in both cell lines. The ALA inhibited cell viability of A172 and U373 cells at 48h. In addition, Bax mRNA expression was significantly increased in response to ALA for A172 cells. Furthermore, the BCL-2 level was decreased in A172 cells with ALA after 48h. Caspase 3 and 9 mRNA expressions were increased in ALA treated U373 cell line. In summary, we found that ALA inhibits cell growth and causes apoptosis in A172 and U373 glioblastoma cells.

Evaluation of oxidative stress and its association with drug therapy in inpatients treated for cocaine dependence

The use of cocaine affects several systems and organs of the human body and the consumption of this substance leads to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species, and to the reduction of antioxidant defenses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oxidative stress (OS), biochemical and hematological parameters in patients hospitalized for treatment of cocaine addiction, comparing levels at hospital admission and discharge. Forty patients were included in the study. OS was evaluated using catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GPx), total antioxidant power (FRAP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and sulfhydryl group (GS). The medications used during hospitalization were registered and their influence on the parameters of OS was analyzed. After the hospitalization period, there was an increase in GGT levels, a reduction in SOD activity, and an increase in GPx activity and FRAP levels. Carbamazepine users had higher SOD values and lower FRAP values at hospital discharge. The use of chlorpromazine caused differences in creatinine and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) serum leves, and the levels of glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (TGO), MDA, and FRAP were increased at hospital discharge. Haloperidol and thiamine during hospitalization interfered with alkaline phosphatase levels. The use of risperidone caused an increase in the levels of SOD, and folic acid use was associated with lower levels of GPx and higher levels of glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (TGP) and alkaline phosphatase. Drug rehabilitation treatment was effective in decreasing oxidative damage represented by the reduction of biological markers.

β­caryophyllene oxide induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation of A549 lung cancer cells

One of the most common cancers that result in death is lung cancer. There is new hope in the fight against lung cancer thanks to the chemopreventive properties of natural dietary substances like β-caryophyllene oxide (CPO), and research is currently being done to test this theory. CPO, a sesquiterpene isolated from medicinal plant essential oils, inhibits carcinogenesis and has been effective in treating many cancers. This study examined how CPO affected proliferation of human lung cancer A549 cells. CPO was found to have an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 124.1 g/ml. The proliferative markers Ki67 and PCNA were significantly inhibited after cells were treated with CPO at a concentration of 50 g/ml compared to controls. CPO-treated cells expressed more P21, P53, and DNA strand breaks than controls. This was accompanied by a significant cell cycle arrest in the S and G2/M phases. In treated A549 cells, this was also associated with a significant induction of apoptosis, as shown by the upregulation of the expression of caspases 3, 7, and 9, as well as Bax, and the downregulation of Bcl-2. Furthermore, the redox status of treated A549 cells revealed a marked rise in GSH and GPx activity levels and a decline in 4-HNE levels, indicating low oxidative stress following CPO treatment of A549 cells. In conclusion, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, which are unrelated to oxidative stress, were the mechanisms by which CPO reduced cancer lung cell growth. This finding might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of lung cancer.Graphical abstractHypothetical scheme of CPO anticancer effects (mechanism of signaling) in A549 cells; in vitro. CPO treatment increases expression of p21, p53 and DNA fragmentation. These events cause arrest of cell cycle which was associated with significant induction in apoptosis via increase expression of caspases (-3,-7,-9), and Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2.

Effects of salinity stress on anxiety behavior and antioxidant capability of guppy (Poecilia reticulata).

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of salinity on anxiety behavior and liver antioxidant capacity in the guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Guppies were exposed to salinities of 0‰, 5‰, 10‰, 15‰ and 20‰ for acute stress tests, and then we analyzed the activity of antioxidant enzymes at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. During the experiment, the anxiety behavior of guppy was enhanced at salinities of 10‰, 15‰, and 20‰, as evidenced by a significantly higher latency time for the first passage through the upper part than that of the control group (P < 0.05). CAT activity was highest at 24 h in the treatment with the salinity of 10‰, and SOD and GPX activities were highest at 12 h into the treatment with the salinity of 10‰. The SOD and CAT activities were significantly higher than the control group after 96 h of treatment at different salinities (P < 0.05). The MDA contents of the experimental groups at salinities of 5‰ and 10‰ were not significantly different from the control group after 96 h of treatment (P > 0.05). While the MDA contents of the experimental groups at salinities of 15‰ and 20‰ were still significantly higher than the control group after 96 h of treatment (P < 0.05). The experimental results indicated that elevated salinity could lead to oxidative stress in the guppy, altering their anxiety behavior as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes. In conclusion, drastic changes in salinity during culture should be avoided.

Lactoferrin Relieves Deoxynivalenol-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response by Modulating the Nrf2/MAPK Pathways in the Liver.

Deoxynivalenol (DON), one of the most common mycotoxins contaminating food and feed, has been shown to induce hepatotoxicity. Lactoferrin (LF) enriched in human milk is a critical functional food component and performs the hepatoprotection function. Here, we aimed to explore whether dietary LF supplementation can protect from DON-induced hepatotoxicity and uncover the underlying mechanism in mice and alpha mouse liver 12 (AML12) hepatocytes. In vivo results revealed that LF alleviated DON-induced liver injury, reflected by repairing the hepatic histomorphology and decreasing the plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level and the number of blood white blood cells (WBC) and neutrophils (Neu). Moreover, LF decreased the hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation and enhanced the hepatic GSH-px activity and protein expression of Nrf2 and GPX4 to reverse the DON-induced hepatic oxidative stress. Furthermore, LF downregulated the pro-inflammatory-response-related gene expressions (IL1β, TNFα, and Tlr4) and the phosphorylation levels of IKK, IκBα, and p38 in the liver of DON-exposed mice. Additionally, in vitro studies confirmed that LF ameliorated the DON-induced oxidation-reduction imbalance, inflammatory responses, and associated core modulators of the Nrf2 and MAPK pathways in DON-induced hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, LF performs hepatic antioxidative and anti-inflammatory functions by regulating the Nrf2/MAPK signaling pathways, thus reducing DON-induced hepatotoxicity.

Lysine malonylation of DgnsLIPID TRANSFER PROTEIN1 at the K81 site improves cold resistance in chrysanthemum.

Lysine malonylation (Kmal) is a recently discovered posttranslational modification, and its role in the response to abiotic stress has not been reported in plants. In this study, we isolated a nonspecific lipid transfer protein, DgnsLTP1, from chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflorum var. Jinba). Overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene editing of DgnsLTP1 demonstrated that the protein endows chrysanthemum with cold tolerance. Yeast 2-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, luciferase complementation imaging, and coimmunoprecipitation experimental results showed that DgnsLTP1 interacts with a plasma membrane intrinsic protein (PIP) DgPIP. Overexpressing DgPIP boosted the expression of DgGPX (glutathione peroxidase), increased the activity of GPX, and decreased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby enhancing the low-temperature stress tolerance of chrysanthemum, while the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated mutant dgpip inhibited this process. Transgenic analyses in chrysanthemum showed that DgnsLTP1 improves the cold resistance of chrysanthemum in a DgPIP-dependent manner. Moreover, Kmal of DgnsLTP1 at the K81 site prevented the degradation of DgPIP in Nicotiana benthamiana and chrysanthemum, further promoted DgGPX expression, enhanced GPX activity, and scavenged excess ROS produced by cold stress, thereby further enhancing the cold resistance of chrysanthemum.

Comparison of Sodium Selenite and Selenium-Enriched Spirulina Supplementation Effects After Selenium Deficiency on Growth, Tissue Selenium Concentrations, Antioxidant Activities, and Selenoprotein Expression in Rats.

Selenium contributes to physiological functions through its incorporation into selenoproteins. It is involved in oxidative stress defense. A selenium deficiency results in the onset or aggravation of pathologies. Following a deficiency, the repletion of selenium leads to a selenoprotein expression hierarchy misunderstood. Moreover, spirulina, a microalga, exhibits antioxidant properties and can be enriched in selenium.. Our objective was to determine the effects of a sodium selenite or selenium-enriched spirulina supplementation. Thirty-two female Wistar rats were fed for 12 weeks with a selenium-deficient diet. After 8 weeks, rats were divided into 4 groups and were fed with water, sodium selenite (20 μg Se/kg body weight), spirulina (3 g/kg bw), or selenium-enriched spirulina (20 μg Se/kg bw + 3 g spirulina/kg bw). Another group of 8 rats was fed with normal diet during 12 weeks. Selenium concentration and antioxidant enzyme activities were measured in plasma, urine, liver, brain, kidney, heart, and soleus. Expression of GPx (1, 3), Sel (P, S, T, W), SEPHS2, TrxR1, ApoER2, and megalin were quantified in liver, kidney, brain, and heart. We showed that a selenium deficiency leads to a growth delay, reversed by selenium supplementation despite a minor loss of weight in week 12 for SS rats. All tissues displayed a decrease in selenium concentration following deficiency. The brain seemed protected. We demonstrated a hierarchy in selenium distribution and selenoprotein expression. A supplementation of sodium selenite improved GPx activities and selenoprotein expression while a selenium-enriched spirulina was more effective to restore selenium concentration especially in the liver, kidney, and soleus.

Heat stress, especially when coupled with high light, accelerates the decline of tropical seagrass (Enhalus acoroides) meadows

Heat stress threatens the survival of seagrass, but its damage mechanisms are unclear. In this study, the results reveal that heat stress exceeding 36 °C in the dark caused inactivation of the PSII reaction center, damaging both the PSII donor and acceptor sides in Enhalus acoroides. High light further increased the damage to the photosynthetic apparatus under heat stress. The stronger the heat stress under high light, the harder the recovery of photosynthetic activity. Therefore, during ebb tide at noon in nature, heat stress combined with strong light would induce a significant, even irreversible decrease in photosynthetic activity. Moreover, the heat stress hindered the transcription of psbA and RuBisCO, enhanced respiratory O2, and induced severe peroxidation even if the SOD, APX, and GPX activities significantly improved. The results clearly suggest that heat stress, especially when coupled with high light, may be an important cause for the decline of E. acoroides meadows.

Camptothecin Sensitizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Sorafenib- Induced Ferroptosis Via Suppression of Nrf2

Sorafenib is a potent inducer of ferroptosis used to manage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The ferroptosis induced by sorafenib activates the p62–Keap1–Nrf2 pathway. Abnormal activation of Nrf2 reduces sorafenib’s efficiency and ferroptosis action and induces sorafenib’s resistance. Consequently, our study tried to study the effect of a novel combination of sorafenib and Camptothecin (CPT, Nrf2 inhibitor) to improve sorafenib’s ferroptosis action and reduce sorafenib resistance in the treatment of HCC. We evaluated the efficacy of sorafenib and/or CPT using HepG2 and Huh7 cell lines. MTT assay evaluated the anti-proliferation effects. The combination index (CI) and dose reduction index (DRI) were calculated using Isobologram analysis. Malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), iron concentration, glutathione peroxidase (GPX4), and glutathione reductase (GR) activity assays were used to determine the ferroptosis action of drugs. Western blot was used to investigate the expression of the implicated proteins. Bioinformatics tools were used to determine the correlation between these proteins. Finally, the HPLC technique is used to measure cellular drug uptake. Our results revealed a strong synergism between sorafenib and CPT. The synergetic combination significantly increases lipid peroxidation and iron concentration, decreases TAC, GPX4 and GR activity, and reduces the expression of both Nrf2 and SLC7A11. The downregulation of Nrf2 expression has a vital role in the reduction of resistance mediators to sorafenib against HCC cells like (p62, MT1G, and ABCG2) and improves the cellular uptake of sorafenib. The current study provided evidence that Nrf2 inhibition by CPT improves sorafenib’s sensitivity and reduces sorafenib’s resistance via the augmentation of sorafenib’s ferroptosis action.

Immune Redox Modulation Effects of Non-Electrolyzed Hypochlorous Acid Water on Helicobacter pylori-Infected C57BL/6 Mouse Model

Recently, non-electrolyzed HOCl water has gained the attention of researchers as a new disinfecting agent owing to its high sterilization power, easy accessibility, and safety. Non-electrolyzed HOCl water was developed through mixing at a specific ratio based on hypochlorite and mineral supplements, which revealed a high oxidizing power. In this study, we investigated the effects of non-electrolyzed HOCl water on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in C57BL/6 mice over 10 weeks. Mice were divided into three groups: normal control (NC) group supplied with purified water (PW) without infection, PW + H. pylori group supplied with PW after H. pylori infection, and HOCl + H. pylori group supplied with HOCl after H. pylori infection. Our findings demonstrated that the HOCl + H. pylori group greatly inhibited WBC and its differential counts, including total white blood cell (WBC), neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils, when compared to the PW + H. pylori group. Accordingly, the amount of reactive oxygen species and calcium activity significantly decreased in the HOCl + H. pylori group compared to the PW + H. pylori group in both serum and stomach lysates. In contrast, HOCl water treatment enhanced GPx activity compared to PW treatment after H. pylori infection in both serum and stomach lysates. Accordingly, the levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, IL-1β, and TNF-α cytokine levels were significantly decreased in the HOCl + H. pylori group compared to those in the PW + H. pylori group in the stomach lysate; however, there was no significant difference in serum. In addition, the expression levels of Bax, MMP-3, MMP-9, and TLR-4 were found to decrease after HOCl water treatment, whereas the expression level of Bcl-2 was found to be enhanced after HOCl water treatment in the stomach lysate. Taken together, our results suggest that drinking non-electrolyzed HOCl water has positive anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects in H. pylori-infected mice through redox and immune regulation.