Higher Levels Of Superoxide Dismutase Research Articles

The neuroprotective effect of submicron and blended Lycium barbarum for experiment retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective potential of submicron (milled) and blended Lycium barbarum (LB) in glaucomatous retinal neuropathy using a rat model of high intraocular pressure (HIOP) induced retinal ischemia. The rats were treated with 500, 250, 100 mg/kg LB (submicron or blended form) orally once daily for 56 days respectively after 1 week of retinal ischemia induction. We conducted electroretinography (ERG), histopathological analysis in retina and antioxidative level assays, such as total glutathione (GSH (glutathione) + reduced glutathione) + GSSH (glutathione disulfide), catalase activity, SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity, and lipid peroxidant malondialdehyde (MDA) in the retina and plasma of test rats. The results indicated that the amplitudes of a and b wave of ERG were preserved in rats treated with submicron and blended LB groups, the best protective effect on ERG b wave amplitudes was observed at the dosage of 250 mg/kg of both forms of LB. Retinal thickness was best preserved, particularly significant in the retinal inner nuclear layer in submicron 250 mg/kg LB group. The levels of antioxidant GSSH+GSH, SOD and catalase activity in the retina were higher in blended 500 mg/kg and submicron 250 mg/kg groups than other groups, while the MDA level was lower in submicron LB groups than that in blended LB and non-LB IR group. In the plasma, there was no significant difference in the levels of GSSH+GSH and catalase activity between treated groups, but higher levels of SOD and lower levels of MDA were observed in 250 mg/kg submicron and 500 mg/kg submicron LB groups than the blended LB and non-LB IR groups. Generally better antioxidative effects were observed in the submicron LB than blended LB among treated groups, especially the 250 mg/kg submicron LB, providing good retinal neuroprotection by preserving retinal structure and function with improved antioxidative capacity. The submicron LB may have clinical implication as an adjuvant therapy of oxidative stress and retinal damage caused by HIOP induced retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Phytogenic actives supplemented in hyperprolific sows: effects on maternal transfer of phytogenic compounds, colostrum and milk features, performance and antioxidant status of sows and their offspring, and piglet intestinal gene expression.

Phytogenic actives (PA) are plant-derived natural bioactive compounds that may promote livestock health and well-being, as well as improve growth performance and production efficiency. The current study aims to evaluate their effects on sows and their offspring. Eighty-one hyperprolific sows (up to parity 7) were assigned to 3 experimental treatments. Control sows were offered a nonsupplemented diet during gestation and lactation, and treated sows were fed the control diet supplemented with 1 g/kg of a blend of PA (BPA) in lactation (L) or during gestation and lactation (GL). An evaluation was made of placental and milk maternal transfer of these BPA and colostrum-milk features, sows and piglets antioxidant status, reproductive performance (litter size), body weight (BW) changes, weaning-estrus interval, and litter performance. Finally, piglet´s jejunum gene expression was measured. The BPA supplementation during gestation (GL) increased the number of piglets born alive (P = 0.020) and reduced (P < 0.05) the newborn piglets BW, while there were no differences among treatments on the suckling (day 20) and weaned (day 7) piglets BW (P > 0.05). Dietary phytogenic volatile compounds reached GL placental fluid, and milk of L and GL sows (P < 0.05). Moreover, colostrum protein in GL and milk fat content in L and GL were increased (P < 0.05). Milk of GL showed inhibitory activity against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus (P < 0.05). Antioxidant status of GL sows showed an enhanced (P < 0.05) of catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant capacity levels at early gestation (day 35), whereas higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) enzymes at late gestation (day 110). Likewise, GL newborn piglets showed higher CAT levels, whereas both CAT and SOD levels in suckling piglets, as well as CAT, SOD, and GSH-Px in weaned piglets, were increased in L and GL (P < 0.05). Jejunum messenger ribonucleic acid abundance of suckling piglets in L and GL groups showed overexpression of barrier function MUC2, digestive enzyme IDO, and immune response PPARGC-α, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and IL-10 genes (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary BPA supplementation in hyperprolific sows increased the litter size (born alive) and improved the composition and bioactivity of colostrum and milk, besides, modified the antioxidant status of sows and their offspring, as well as the suckling piglets gut health gene expression. Several BPA volatile compounds were prenatal and postnatal maternally transferred (placental fluid and milk).

Pyruvate Protects Against Intestinal Injury by Inhibiting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway in Rats With Hemorrhagic Shock

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the role of Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway in protection by peritoneal resuscitation (PR) using pyruvate-peritoneal dialysis solution (PY-PDS) against intestinal injury from hemorrhagic shock (HS) in rats. Materials and MethodsSixty-four rats were assigned to eight groups: group SHAM; group intravenous resuscitation (VR); groups NS, LA, and PY in which the rats were subjected to HS and PR with normal saline (NS), lactate-peritoneal dialysis solution (LA-PDS), and PY-PDS, respectively, combined with VR; and groups DMSO, RPM, and AG490 in which the rats were subjected to HS and VR with pretreatment of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), rapamycin (RPM), and tyrphostin B42 (AG490). ResultsAt 2 h after HS and resuscitation, the levels of diamine oxidase, 15-F2t-isoprostane, thromboxane B2, and endothelin-1, in the blood and the intestinal mucosal apoptotic index and caspase-3 were lower in groups PY, RPM, and AG490 than in groups VR, NS, LA, and DMSO. Group PY showed lower levels of malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase and a higher level of superoxide dismutase than groups VR, NS, and LA. Phosphorylated JAK2 and phosphorylated STAT3 levels were lower in groups PY, RPM, AG490, and LA than in groups VR, NS, and DMSO. ConclusionsThe protection mechanism of PR with PY-PDS combined with VR was related to the inhibition of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway during HS and resuscitation. The process might include suppression of oxidative stress, reduction of neutrophil infiltration, regulation of microcirculation, and inhibition of apoptosis.

Oxidative stress and risk of polycystic ovarian syndrome in women with epilepsy: implications of malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase serum levels on female fertility

BackgroundEpilepsy is a common neurologic disease and has important implications for women’s fertility, as approximately half of the epileptic women have reproductive disorders. Oxidative stress is a key contributor in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and epilepsy. We aimed to investigate the role of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) serum levels as predictors of PCOS in women with epilepsy (WWE) and to evaluate the possible relationship between oxidative stress and epilepsy characteristics as well as clinicomorphological features of PCOS.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional study enrolled 130 WWE. They were classified to two subgroups; women with PCOS (n=50) and women without PCOS (n=80) according to Rotterdam criteria. Metabolic markers and markers of PCOS were measured. Serum MDA and SOD concentrations were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsOur results revealed higher levels of MDA and SOD in WWE, in particular, women with PCOS. Moreover, serum MDA and SOD levels were significantly positively correlated with PCOS phenotypes. Linear regression test revealed that Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were the main predictors of serum MDA levels in PCOS, whereas BMI and LH were the main predictors of serum SOD levels. Regarding antiepileptic medication, there were significantly higher levels of MDA and SOD in patients treated with valproic acid compared with the ones treated with carbamazepine.ConclusionThe high levels of MDA and SOD among WWE, in particular, women with PCOS, were positively correlated with obesity indices and PCOS phenotypes. Thus, we recommended avoid using valproic acid in women during childbearing period.

Nanodoses of melatonin induces apoptosis on human breast cancer cells co-cultured with colostrum cells

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin nanodoses adsorbed to PEG microspheres during different phases of the day on oxidative stress and apoptosis in human colostrum mononuclear (MN) cells co-cultured with breast cancer tumor cells (MCF-7). The MCF-7 cells were obtained from the American Type Culture Collection, and the MN cells were obtained from volunteer donors. The cells were preincubated for 24 h with or without 100 ng.mL-1 melatonin (MLT), PEG microspheres (PEG) or 100 ng.mL-1 MLT adsorbed to PEG microspheres (PEG-MLT). Superoxide, superoxide dismutase (SOD), intracellular calcium and apoptosis in the MN cells, MCF-7 cells and co-cultures were determined. The MN cells and co-cultured cells during the nocturnal period and the MCF-7 cells during the diurnal period exhibited increased superoxide release in the presence of PEG-MLT. MN cells treated with MLT during both periods of the day exhibited the highest SOD concentrations, whereas the MCF-7 cells had high SOD levels when incubated with PEG-MLT during the nocturnal period. The nocturnal period co-culture, independent of treatment, showed the highest levels of the enzyme. The highest amount of intracellular Ca2+ release was observed in MN cells and MCF-7 cells co-cultured with PEG-MLT during the nocturnal period. Irrespective of the phase of the day, the highest apoptosis index was observed in co-cultures of cells incubated with MLT-PEG. These data suggest that nanodoses of melatonin-modified release plus physiological melatonin produced in higher concentrations during the night can increase the effective activity of this hormone against tumors.

Hepatoprotective effects of red beetroot-based beverages against CCl4 -induced hepatic stress in Sprague Dawley rats.

Red beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) is considered important to improve hepatic health but its use is primarily limited to fresh salads in Pakistan. This study was aimed at exploring prophylactic role of red beetroot-based beverages against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced hepatic stress. Purposely, red beetroot-based beverages (8ml/kg b.w. per day) were administered to normal and hepatotoxicity-induced rats for 8weeks. The biochemical analyses revealed significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase (25%-28%), catalase (21%-24%), and hepatic enzymes (15%-19%) alongside reduced lipid peroxidation (27%-32%) in liver tissues of hepatotoxicity-induced rats treated with beetroot-based beverages compared to control. Similarly, hepatic injury was reduced by 19%-26% as indicated by concentrations of serum hepatic health biomarkers. Moreover, histological architecture of hepatocytes also portrayed promising effects of beetroot-based beverages to preserve hepatocellular portfolio. It was concluded that red beetroot-based beverages considerably assuage negative impacts of hepatic stress. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Functional foods and nutraceuticals are considered vital in controlling the oxidative stress-mediated metabolic disorders as safer alternatives to pharmaceutical agents. The current research explored the protective effects of red beetroot-based beverages which can be utilized as an effective approach to prevent liver injuries. Also, the outcomes of this research endorsed the defensive role of these beverages against oxidative stress-induced hepatic stress, so dietary supplementation of such products can be synchronized in clinical practices to alleviate oxidative stress. However, there is a need to further explore the safety aspects of such products in their long-term usage before implementing this module in humans for disease prevention/cure.

Impact of uranium exposure on marine yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica: Insights into the yeast strategies to withstand uranium stress

A marine yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica, was evaluated for morphological, physiological and biochemical responses towards uranium (U) exposure at pH 7.5. The yeast revealed biphasic U binding - a rapid biosorption resulting in ∼35% U binding within 15–30 min followed by a slow biomineralization process, binding up to ∼45.5% U by 24 h on exposure to 50 μM of uranyl carbonate. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis of 24 h U challenged cells revealed the deposition of uranyl precipitates due to biomineralization. The loss of intracellular structures together with surface and subcellular localization of uranyl precipitates in 24 h U exposed cells were visualized by transmission electron microscopy. Cells treated with 50 μM U exhibited membrane permeabilization which was higher at 200 μM U. Enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and lipid peroxidation, transient RNA degradation and protein oxidation were observed in U exposed cells. High superoxide dismutase levels coupled with uranium binding and bioprecipitation possibly helped in counteracting U stress in 50 μM U treated cells. Resistance to U toxicity apparently developed under prolonged uranyl (50 μM) incubations. However, cells could not cope up with toxicity at 200 μM U due to impairment of resistance mechanisms.

Islet Transplantation Attenuating Testicular Injury in Type 1 Diabetic Rats Is Associated with Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation via Nrf-2/HO-1 and NF-κB Pathways.

Testicular structural and functional impairment is a serious complication in male diabetes mellitus (DM) patients that leads to impaired fertility in adulthood. In contrast to other endocrine therapies, islet transplantation (IT) can effectively prevent and even reverse diabetic nephropathy and myocardial damage. However, whether IT can alleviate diabetes-induced testicular injury remains unclear. In this study, we sought to investigate the effect of IT on diabetes-induced testicular damage. A diabetic rat model was established by streptozotocin injection. DM, IT, and insulin treatment (INS) groups were compared after 4 weeks of respective treatment. We confirmed that IT could effectively attenuate diabetes-induced testicular damage and recover sperm counts more extensively compared with INS in diabetic rats. In addition, significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and lower contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected in the testes of the IT group versus diabetic rats. Mechanism studies revealed that IT significantly activates the expression of Nrf-2, HO-1, and NQO-1 and inhibits upregulation of the NF-κB expression in response to DM, while INS only exhibit slight impact on the protein expression. Therefore, we speculate that IT may prevent the progression of testicular damage by downregulating oxidative stress and inhibiting inflammation via Nrf-2/HO-1 and NF-κB pathways.

Antioxidant supplementation to medium for in vitro embryo production in Felis catus.

The development of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) techniques in Felis catus is a fitting model with potential application to the conservation of endangered felid species. To improve the quality of IVEP techniques an appropriate balance of pro- and antioxidants should be provided. Under in vitro conditions, high levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) mRNA provide a defence mechanism against oxidative stress for embryos. In order to improve the development of cat oocytes, the effects of SOD and CAT supplemented to in vitro maturation (IVM) medium and of GPx supplemented to in vitro fertilization (IVF) medium on development and embryo production in vitro were evaluated. Data showed an increase of 70 and 77 % of cleaved embryo and blastocyst formation, respectively, in the experiment with SOD and CAT addition to IVM medium; in the experiment with GPx addition to IVF medium the number of cleaved embryos doubled and the number of embryos increased by 96 %. Therefore, our results were positive and encourage us to continue studies on cat oocytes evaluating the effects of various dosages and combination of antioxidants.

Effects of zinc supplementation on oxidant/antioxidant and lipids status of pesticides sprayers

Background Excess exposure to pesticides induces oxidative stress and causes alteration in the lipid profile Objectives The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Zinc (Zn) supplementation on the oxidant/antioxidant and lipid status in pesticide sprayers. Methods Forty pesticide sprayers were included in the study. Blood lipids, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Zn were estimated; before and after Zn supplementation. Results Statistical analysis revealed that after Zn supplementation, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and MDA were significantly decreased. However, there was a significant increase in the high density lipoprotein (HDL), SOD, GPx, and Zn levels. After Zn supplementation, significant inverse correlations were detected between the Zn and the levels of MDA, TG, and VLDL, while positive correlation between Zn and the levels of HDL and TC. Conclusions Zn supplementation improves the oxidative/antioxidants and lipid status in pesticide sprayers.

Effect of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) consumption on biomarkers of oxidative stress in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats

This study investigated the effect of consumption of diet supplemented with Bambara-groundnut (BGN) on some biomarkers of oxidative stress in diabetic induced rats. A total of 24 apparently healthy adult albino wistar rats were assembled and divided into 4 groups A-D; group A (Non diabetic rats, fed on normal diet), B (Diabetic rats fed on normal diet), C (Diabetic rats fed on 10% Bambara-groundnut diet), D (Diabetic rats fed on Nitrogen free diet) with each group consisting of 6 rats respectively. After 4 weeks of feeding, rats were sacrificed and blood collected into heparin container and used for laboratory analysis. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHPER), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) were assayed for using standard laboratory methods. The result showed that Group C rats had the lowest post-feeding glucose concentration (75 mg/dl). AST, ALT, and ALP were elevated in diabetic induced rats; but, treatment with Bambara-groundnut diet reversed the parameters close to control. The highest levels of SOD and GSHPER were found in group C rats while the group B rats had the highest oxidative stress. It can be concluded that Bambara-groundnut diet modulated and ameliorated the oxidative stress in diabetic rats.

Antioxidant defence system in protein fractions of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) seminal plasma

There are growing evidences that the damage which is caused to the spermatozoa by the reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a key role in male infertility. The seminal plasma is endowed with many enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants which protect the spermatozoa against oxidative stress. The present study was undertaken to compare the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in separated protein fractions of whole common carp Cyprinus carpio seminal plasma. Seminal plasma from six male common carp was separated into four fractions. The fractions differed from each other in their total seminal plasma protein content and antioxidant status. The highest value of SOD (2.81 ± 0.11 mU/mg protein) was found in fraction 4, and the lowest (1.83 ± 0.18 mU/mg protein) in fraction 1. There were significant variations (ANOVA; P = 0.05) in GR activity, mainly between fractions 1, 2, and 4. The lowest value of GPx activity (14.9 ± 0.4 mU/mg protein) was found in fraction 2; however, the GPx activity showed low variability among fractions. We conclude that distinct seminal plasma fractions differ in antioxidant capacity. The inclusion of fractions with high levels of SOD, GR, and GPx in sperm storage medium may enhance protection against oxidative stress and promote sperm survival during the in vitro storage.

Prymnesium parvum differentially triggers sublethal fish antioxidant responses in vitro among salinity and nutrient conditions

Significant fish kills have been attributed to Prymnesium parvum in coastal and inland waters around the world. However, specific mechanisms responsible for adverse outcomes resulting from this harmful algal bloom (HAB) species remain unclear, though the gill has previously been identified as an important target organ. In the present study, an in vitro approach was used to examine cytotoxicity and antioxidant responses in fish liver (Hepa-E1 and PLHC-1) and gill (G1B and RTgill-W1) cell lines, following exposure to P. parvum grown at different salinities and nutrient concentrations, which can influence the magnitude of acute toxicity. Cultures from high salinity compromised survival of hepatic cell lines exposed to high dilutions, whereas no significant cytotoxicity was observed for gill cell lines. With respect to control groups, catalase showed significant activity in both gill cell lines, especially RTgill-W1, following exposure to high salinity cultures. High levels of superoxide dismutase were measured in Hepa-E1 cells exposed to all experimental treatment combinations and in RTgill-W1 cells following exposure to high salinity conditions, with respect to non-exposed cells Glutathione peroxidase activity was also detected at significant levels in Hepa-E1 cells after exposure to cultures from high salinity and the low salinity X low nutrients. Slight GPx increases were only observed in PLHC-1 and G1B exposed to P. parvum grown at high salinity. These results suggest that: 1. specific combinations of salinity and nutrient levels may contribute to production and potency of P. parvum toxins resulting in sub-lethal effects, and 2. sub-lethal responses are more prominent than cytotoxicity, and that oxidative stress may be a significant adverse effect of toxins produced by P. parvum.

Assessment of Serum Cotinine and Oxidative Stress Markers in Tobacco Users

Augmented production of free radicals associated with smoking with decrease in antioxidant levels and increase in peroxidation of biomolecules have been shown in various studies. The studies with smokeless tobacco use having depictive data were lacking. To estimate serum cotinine (CTN) levels and oxidative stress markers in tobacco smokers and smokeless tobacco users and to compare them with tobacco nonusers. This cross sectional study was performed in 180 study subjects divided into 6 groups - tobacco smokers, tobacco chewers, tobacco mishri users, dual tobacco chewers and mishri users, dual smokers and smokeless tobacco users and tobacco nonusers. Serum CTN levels were estimated. Oxidative stress was estimated by Malondialdehyde (MDA) and enzymatic antioxidant Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Serum MDA levels were significantly high and erythrocytic SOD levels were significantly low in tobacco users than tobacco nonusers (P&lt;0.001). There was a significant negative relationship between cotinine and SOD, a significant positive relation between cotinine and MDA in tobacco users. There was a significant negative relationship between duration of tobacco use and SOD, a significant positive relation between duration of tobacco use and MDA. There was a significant negative relationship between amount of tobacco use and SOD. Tobacco users with longer duration of tobacco use with increased levels of serum cotinine have increased oxidative stress which can be a risk factor for many diseases. Tobacco chewing equally increases oxidative stress as that of smoking.

The Association of Oxidative Stress Status with Open-Angle Glaucoma and Exfoliation Glaucoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Purpose To systematically evaluate the associations between oxidative stress status and different types of glaucoma. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Web of Science for randomized controlled trials written in the English language between January 1, 1990, and November 30, 2016. A random effects model was used to estimate oxidative stress status along with weighted mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A funnel plot analysis and Egger's test were performed to assess potential publication bias. Main outcome measures Oxidative stress status was abnormal and different in patients with OAG (open-angle glaucoma) and EXG (exfoliation glaucoma). Results Blood TAS (total antioxidant status) was lower in the OAG group than in the control group, with a mean difference of 0.580 mmol/L (p < 0.0001, 95% CI = −0.668 to −0.492). The aqueous humor SOD (superoxide dismutase), GPX (glutathione peroxidase), and CAT (catalase) levels were higher in the OAG group than in the control group, with mean differences of 17.989 U/mL (p < 0.0001, 95% CI = 14.579–21.298), 12.441 U/mL (p < 0.0001, 95% CI = 10.423–14.459), and 1.229 fmol/mL (p=0.042, 95% CI = 0.043–2.414), respectively. Blood TAS was lower in the EXG group than in the control group, with a mean difference of 0.262 mmol/L (p < 0.0001, 95% CI = −0.393 to −0.132). However, there were no differences in blood TOS and aqueous humor TOS between the EXG group and the control group. Conclusions This meta-analysis indicates that OAG patients had a lower TAS in the blood and higher levels of SOD, GPX, and CAT in the aqueous humor, while EXG patients only had a decreased TAS in the blood.

Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Level of Stroke Patients in Osun State, South-Western Nigeria

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Oxidative stress which is as a result of increased activity of free radicals and decreased antioxidant mechanism plays a major role in the pathogenesis of stroke. This study determined the plasma level of malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress and enzymatic Antioxidants namely, superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and Catalase (CAT) in sixty stroke patients of both sexes attending Wesley Guide Hospital, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ilesa, Osun State. An equal number of healthy subjects were used as control. The result of this study revealed a significantly (p < 0.05) high plasma level of MDA in stroke patients when compared with the control subjects. Plasma level of SOD in stroke patients was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the control subjects while plasma GPx and CAT level were found to be significantly lower (p < 0.05) in stroke patients than the control subjects. The result of the study indicated high level of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in stroke patients and high degree of free radicals presence as indicated by the high level of SOD.

Short communication: Purple corn (Zea mays L.) stover silage with abundant anthocyanins transferring anthocyanin composition to the milk and increasing antioxidant status of lactating dairy goats

The present study used 16 multiparous lactating Saanen dairy goats (body weight, 41.80 ± 2.92 kg; mean ± standard deviation) with healthy and symmetrical udders. Goats were divided into 2 blocks of 8 goats based on milk yield averaged from 75 d in milk in a randomized completed block design. The 2 study groups were the control (CSSS), in which goats were fed sticky corn stover silage, and the treatment (TPSS), in which goats were fed anthocyanin-rich purple corn (Zea mays L.) stover silage (PSS). The results indicated that the TPSS group led to an elevation in the content of milk lactose relative to the CSSS. The inclusion of anthocyanin-rich PSS had no effect on the level of 5 particular anthocyanins [i.e., cyanidin-3-glucoside, delphinidin, cyanidin, pelargonidin (Pel), as well as total anthocyanins in milk]. The pelargonidin-3-glucoside and malvidin were unable to be detected in both groups. However, the TPSS resulted in higher levels of peonidin (Peo) and malvidin-3-O-glucoside (M3G) compared with the control. Moreover, goats receiving TPSS exhibited a higher level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in plasma and milk relative to the CSSS. Interestingly, some positive correlations were detected between the certain milk components [i.e., fat and total solids as well as fat and solids-not-fat (SNF); protein and SNF; and total solids and SNF]. In addition, the positive correlations were observed between individual anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-glucoside, delphinidin, Peo, M3G, cyanidin, and Pel) and total anthocyanins. Specifically, stronger positive correlations were noted between several antioxidant enzymes and anthocyanin composition in milk (total antioxidant capacity and Pel; SOD and Peo as well as SOD and M3G). Taken together, PSS with abundant anthocyanins can transfer anthocyanins to the milk and enhance the amount of antioxidants in lactating dairy goats.

Neuroprotective effects of α-lipoic acid on long-term experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an animal model commonly used in research on the acute phase of multiple sclerosis (MS), but studies on the pathology and pathogenesis of EAE with a long disease course are seldom conducted. Besides its antioxidant properties, the comprehensive mechanisms through which α-lipoic acid (LA) affects EAE remain obscure. We here conducted the study to explore the possible mechanisms. In this study, the following methods were used for investigating the effects of LA on long-term EAE: hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) and electron microscopic examinations of pathological changes; Western blotting of β-amyloid precursor protein (β-APP) and myelin basic protein (MBP); Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as flow cytometry of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). The results showed: (1) diverse pathological features of long-term relapsing-remitting EAE; (2) relatively increased MBP and reduced β-APP expression in LA recipients 180 days after onset; (3) down-regulated TNF-α and up-regulated TGF-β levels in LA recipients 7 days after onset; (4) lower MDA and higher SOD levels in LA recipients 180 days after onset; (5) increased Treg levels in LA recipients 7 days after onset. Aside from oxidative stress, LA possessed anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects on EAE. LA might be a promising candidate for MS treatment.

Study of Dynamics of Immunobiochemical Parameters and Pharmacological Interferences in the Metabolic Syndrome

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a frequent disorder of the present age, with increased global prevalence, with complex etiopathogenesis and physiopathology, with great impact upon the patients, society and economy and which often is difficult to treat. The main aim of the study was the evaluation of the pharmacodynamic effects of associated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on blood pressure values and markers of oxidative stress in rats with MetS. Material and methods: 9 groups of 6 Wistar rats weighing between 150-200g with uniform gender distribution were subjected to cholesterol diet. During 4 weeks, their exercise capacities were analyzed over a 10-minute interval after administration of the test substances. Results: All groups who received cholesterol showed significant increases in serum cortisol. The group receiving Enalapril noted the highest levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Conclusions: Comparing the results obtained in this study with the literature, it was noted that the administration of ACE and / or NSAIDs significantly improves the process of chronic inflammation.

Concomitant changes in radiation resistance and trehalose levels during life stages of Drosophila melanogaster suggest radio-protective function of trehalose

Purpose: During development, various life stages of Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) show different levels of resistance to gamma irradiation, with the early pupal stage being the most radiation sensitive. This provides us an opportunity to explore the biochemical basis of such variations. The present study was carried out to understand the mechanisms underlying radiation resistance during life stages of D. melanogaster.Materials and methods: Homogenates from all the life stages of D. melanogaster were prepared at stipulated age. These homogenates were used for the determination of (1) enzymatic antioxidants: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, D. melanogaster glutathione peroxidase (DmGPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST); (2) reducing non-enzymatic antioxidants: total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH) and non-reducing non-enzymatic antioxidant trehalose; and (3) levels of protein carbonyl (PC) content. Age-dependent changes in radiation resistance and associated biochemical changes were also studied in young (2 d) and old (20 and 30 d) flies.Results: TAC and GSH were found high in the early pupal stage, whereas catalase and DmGPx were found to increase in the early pupal stage. The non-feeding third instar (NFTI) larvae were found to have high levels of SOD and GST, besides NFTI larvae showed high levels of trehalose. A remarkable decrease was observed in radiation resistance and trehalose levels during the early pupal stage. The PC level was the highest during early pupal stage and was the lowest in NFTI larvae. Older flies showed high level of PC compared with young flies.Conclusion: In vitro increments in trehalose concentration correspond to reduced formation of PCs, suggesting a protective role of trehalose against free radicals. A strong correlation between levels of trehalose and PC formation suggests amelioration of proteome damage due to ionizing radiation (IR). Stages with high trehalose levels showed protected proteome and high radiation resistance, suggesting a significant role for this disaccharide in radiation resistance.