Higher Malondialdehyde Levels Research Articles

Assessing the impact of arsenite and arsenate on Sarcodia suae: a tale of two toxicities.

Inorganic arsenic (iAs), which predominantly occurs as arsenite (As3+) and arsenate (As5+) in natural water, is primarily accumulated by seaweed in marine environments. However, the detailed mechanisms through which As3+ and As5+ affect the physiological processes of these organisms remain largely unknown. This study focused on evaluating the toxicological effects of As3+ and As5+ on the seaweed Sarcodia suae. Exposure to As3+ and As5+ resulted in IC50 values of 401.5 ± 9.4 μg L-1 and 975.8 ± 13 μg L-1, respectively. Morphological alterations and a reduction in phycoerythrin content were observed, particularly under As3+ exposure, with increased lipid peroxidation as evidenced by higher malondialdehyde levels. Exposure to As3+ also elevated the production of superoxide radicals, while decreasing hydrogen peroxide levels specifically in the presence of As3+. The induction of antioxidative enzyme activities, namely superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and ascorbate peroxidase was observed, signaling an adaptive response to iAs-induced oxidative stress. Moreover, levels of the antioxidants ascorbate and glutathione were elevated post-exposure, especially in response to As3+. Additionally, bioaccumulation of arsenic was significantly higher in the As3+ compared to As5+. Collectively, the data suggest that As3+ imposes greater adverse effects and oxidative stress to S. suae, which responds by adjusting its antioxidative defense mechanisms to mitigate oxidative stress.

Express Diagnosis and Prediction of Remote Mass Mortality of Scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis in Mariculture Farms Using Biomarkers

The cage method for the cultivation of the seaside scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis is the most developed and popular method at sea farms in Primorsky Krai (Sea of Japan). However, this method of mollusk cultivation requires the careful planning of farming activities. Recently, mariculture farms in different countries have often encountered the mass mortality of cultured hydrobionts. The causes of such diseases are not quite clear, and often their identification requires a large amount of time and financial expenditure. Therefore, the use of predictive mechanisms based on biomarkers can help identify hidden threats in cultured scallop organisms that lead to mass mortality. In this study, we propose a rapid diagnostic method for predicting the distant mass mortality of M. yessoensis cultured in cages using biomarkers. The assessment of the pathological state of cultured mollusks at earlier developmental stages using the DNA comet method and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde) will allow the diagnosis and prediction of significant losses of marketable individuals in marine farms. In this study, we evaluated different age groups of mollusks cultured in the different water areas of Peter the Great Bay (Sea of Japan). During the study, we found that the death of cultured mollusks increased with increasing DNA damage and the active accumulation of malondialdehyde in tissues. It was observed that in scallops aged 1+ cultured in Severnaya Bay, high levels of DNA molecule damage and malondialdehyde were registered in the digestive glands and gills, which subsequently led to the death of almost all marketable individuals aged 3+. Therefore, the work is of significant value in assisting the aquaculture industry in solving the emerging problems of scallop farming and preserving marketable products. The proposed markers effectively reflect the condition of molluscs under extreme conditions caused by various factors, making them highly suitable for monitoring studies and forecasts on aquaculture farms.

Disrupted neuregulin 1-ErbB4 signaling: Consequences of prenatal morphine exposure in rat pups and molecular gateway to neurological impairment

ObjectiveMorphine exposure during pregnancy has detrimental effects on both the mother and her offspring, both during and after childbirth. This study aimed to investigate the impact of prenatal morphine exposure on rat pups and dams, specifically focusing on changes in Neuregulin-1 (Nrg-1)/ErbB4 gene expression, inflammation, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Materials and methodsTwenty female rats were randomized into two experimental groups:1-Morphine Group: Dams received morphine throughout pregnancy. 2-Control Group: Dams received no interventions.At the end of gestation, blood samples were collected from the dams. Subsequently, dams and their pups underwent tissue collection from the cortical area of the brain to evaluate the following parameters: Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-10 (IL-10), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), Malondialdehyde (MDA), and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).Additionally, RNA was extracted from the pup's cortical brain tissue for the assessment of gene expression levels of Neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) and ErbB-4 using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qrt-PCR). ResultsThe molecular investigation revealed a decrease in NRG-1 and ErbB-4 expressions in the brain cortex of offspring exposed to morphine during prenatal development. Additionally, the levels of IL-6 and IL-10 in both the serum and brain of both the mothers and their offspring in the morphine group were significantly higher compared to the control group. The morphine-exposed group also exhibited significantly lower levels of TAC and higher levels of MDA, indicating increased oxidative stress. Furthermore, the levels of BDNF in the morphine group were significantly lower compared to the control group. ConclusionPrenatal morphine exposure in rats has detrimental effects on both the dams and their offspring. This study demonstrates that prenatal morphine exposure disrupts critical molecular pathways involved in neurodevelopment, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurotrophic signaling. These findings suggest that prenatal morphine exposure can have long-lasting consequences for the offspring, potentially contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders and other health issues later in life.

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

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

Antihyperglycemic, Antihyperlipidemic, and Antioxidant Effects of Morin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Recently, natural remedies for the management of diabetes observed a rise in interest as a result of the negative impacts of conventional treatment. The present work studies the beneficial effects of morin in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats on glucose levels, tissue antioxidant state, and lipid peroxidation. Oral delivery of morin (25 and 50 mg/kg body weight/day) for 21 days to normal and diabetic rats could not prevent weight loss, but consumption of food and water (25 mg/kg) was considerably reduced. Morin substantially decreased glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL cholesterol in the blood of diabetic rats. Additionally, it greatly halted the rise in aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels as well as the decline in HDL cholesterol levels in diabetic rats. In comparison to normal rats, diabetic rats had higher levels of malondialdehyde, lower levels of nitric oxide, decreased glutathione, and lower levels of superoxide dismutase in their hepatic, renal, and pancreatic tissues. The morin treatments substantially reduced the levels of hepatic and pancreatic reduced glutathione, hepatic and pancreatic reduced nitric oxide, and hepatic, renal, and pancreatic superoxide dismutase. They also prevented the increase of hepatic, renal, and pancreatic malondialdehyde. Histopathological findings revealed a reduction in pancreatic damage in morin-treated rats. Morin exerts antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities in diabetic rats.

Exposure to pesticides used in rice farming (bentazone, chlorantraniliprole and tebuconazole) affects biochemical biomarkers and hepatic histopathological parameters of hammertoad tadpoles (Boana faber)

Pesticides used in rice cultivation can cause negative health effects to non-target organisms representative of natural biodiversity. In this context, the present study aimed to investigate the occurrence of pesticides in surface waters from a river that flows in the middle of a rice farming-dominated area. We were also interested in evaluate biochemical and histological effects caused by exposure (16 d) to the lower and higher concentrations of the main found herbicide (bentazone, BTZ), insecticide (chlorantraniliprole, CTP) and fungicide (tebuconazole, TBZ), isolated or mixed, in Boana faber tadpoles. No significant differences were observed in the development of the animals. Tadpoles exposed to the herbicide BTZ showed higher hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). In animals exposed to CTP, MDA levels were lower than controls. Animals exposed to the fungicide TBZ showed higher hepatic activity of glutathione S-transferase and carboxylesterase (CbE), as well as higher levels of carbonyl proteins and MDA. Animals exposed to Mix showed higher activity in CbE and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in the liver, as well as higher levels of MDA. In the brain and muscle of tadpoles exposed to Mix, acetylcholinesterase activity was higher. Histological changes were also observed in pesticide-exposed animals, such as increased occurrence of melanomacrophages, inflammatory infiltrates and congestion. Our data evidences the contamination of natural aquatic environments by rice pesticides, and the adverse effects of main ones in B. faber tadpoles, which suggests the contribution of pesticides derived from rice cultivation to the degradation of local biodiversity health.

Dietary chamomile flowers extract improved performance and mitigated aflatoxin B1 toxicity in rabbits.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is among the poisonous mycotoxins that contaminate food and feed. Limited studies are available on the efficacy of chamomile (Cha) against oxidative stress, liver damage and pro-inflammatory response induced by AFB1. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of Cha on the performance and protective effects against AFB1 in growing rabbits. The experimental rabbits were divided into four different groups, including Cha (70 mg kg day-1), AFB1 (AF; 30 μg kg day-1), AFB1+Cha (AFLCha) and control (CON). The results indicated that the AFB1 treatment had lower values of performance, and carcass parameters compared to the Cha and AFLCha treatments. Furthermore, the Cha and AFLCha groups had lower values of liver and kidney function activities compared to the AFB1 treatment. The higher values of antioxidant enzymes were observed in Cha and AFLCha treatments than in the AFB1 treatment. AFB1 treatments had higher levels of malondialdehyde and liver functions with lower levels of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione and superoxide dismutase) compared to Cha and CON groups. In conclusion, dietary Cha could mitigate the oxidative stress of AFB1-induced liver deterioration.

Assessing the possible association between MTHFR (rs1801133) and GPx-1 (rs1050450) polymorphisms with the risk of type 2 diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic retinopathy.

Oxidative stress in chronic hyperglycemia could injure the tissues and onset of diabetes-related complications like retinopathy and neuropathy. This study investigates the association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) genetic variants with these complications. In this case-control study, 400 individuals, including 100 healthy subjects and 300 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in three subgroups: with retinopathy(n = 100), with neuropathy(n = 100), and without complication (n = 100) from West Iran, were studied. MTHFR (rs1801133) and GPx-1 (rs1050450) variants were identified by the PCR-RFLP method. The plasma levels of GPx activity, glutathione, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidative stress (TOS) were measured by chemical methods. Higher BMI, TOS and MDA levels were observed in patients with neuropathy compared to other patients and controls. Diabetic patients with neuropathy had lower levels of glutathione (7.8 ± 4.5; P < 0.001), GPx activity (39.5 ± 8.5; P < 0.001), and TAC (703.1 ± 129.1; P = 0.0001) in comparison with other groups. The patients without complication and retinopathic patients had higher plasma levels of glutathione (12.2 ± 2.4; p = 0.02) and TAC (793.4 ± 124.6; P < 0.001), respectively. MTHFR TT genotype significantly correlated with lower levels of TOS (3.5 ± 1.1; P < 0.001) and OSI (0.0050 ± 0.001; P < 0.001). Subjects with the GPx-1 TT genotype had higher levels of MDA (6.8 ± 2.5; P = 0.02) and lower levels of TOS (3.7 ± 1.6; P < 0.001), which is statistically significant. TT genotype of MTHFR was associated with 3.9 fold (95% CI 1.04-4.76; P = 0.0436) increased risk of neuropathy. Also, GPx-1 CT genotype increased the risk of retinopathy [OR = 2.7 (95% CI = 1.38-5.44; P = 0.0039)]. The MTHFR TT genotype increased the risk of neuropathy in diabetic patients significantly. The GPx-1 CT genotype is related to increased retinopathy risk among diabetic patients. Both MTHFR and Gpx-1 TT genotypes were associated with higher BMI levels.

Exploring the Associations of Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers with Pancreatic Diseases: An Observational and Mendelian Randomisation Study.

Identifying biomarkers linked to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) is crucial for early detection, treatment, and prevention. Methods: Association analyses of 10 serological biomarkers involved in cell signalling (IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10), oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzyme activities, total glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels), and intestinal permeability proteins (zonulin, I-FABP2) were conducted across PDAC (n = 12), CP (n = 21) and control subjects (n = 23). A Mendelian randomisation (MR) approach was used to assess causality of the identified significant associations in two large genetic cohorts (FinnGen and UK Biobank). Results: Observational results showed a downregulation of SOD and GPx antioxidant enzyme activities in PDAC and CP patients, respectively, and higher MDA levels in CP patients. Logistic regression models revealed significant associations between CP and SOD activity (OR = 0.21, 95% CI [0.05, 0.89], per SD), GPx activity (OR = 0.28, 95% CI [0.10, 0.79], per SD), and MDA levels (OR = 2.05, 95% CI [1.36, 3.08], per SD). MR analyses, however, did not support causality. Conclusions: These findings would not support oxidative stress-related biomarkers as potential targets for pancreatic diseases prevention. Yet, further research is encouraged to assess their viability as non-invasive tools for early diagnosis, particularly in pre-diagnostic CP populations.

Immunocompromisation of wheat host by L-BSO and 2,4-DPA induces susceptibility to the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum

Susceptibility is defined as the disruption of host defence systems that promotes infection or limits pathogenicity. Glutathione (GSH) is a major component of defence signalling pathways that maintain redox status and is synthesised by γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase (γ-ECS). On the other hand, lignin acts as a barrier in the primary cell wall of vascular bundles (VBs) synthesised by phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) in the intracellular system of plants. In this study, we used two inhibitors, such as L-Buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO), which irreversibly inhibits γ-ECS, and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (DPA), which reduces PAL activity and leads to the induction of oxidative stress in wheat (Triticum aestivum) seedlings after exposure to Fusarium oxysporum. Seedlings treated with 1 mM L-BSO and 2,4-DPA showed high levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl (CO) content, and low activity of antioxidative enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR)] as compared to wild-type (WT) seedlings under F. oxysporum infection. Further, the content of reduced glutathione (RGSH), ascorbate (ASC), and lignin was decreased in BSO and DPA treated seedlings as compared to WT seedlings during Fusarium infection. Moreover, treatment with BSO and DPA significantly inhibited the relative activity of γ-ECS and PAL (P ≤ 0.001) in WT seedlings during Fusarium infection, which led to disintegrated VBs and, finally, cell death. Our results demonstrate that inhibition of γ-ECS and PAL by BSO and DPA, respectively, disrupts the defence mechanisms of wheat seedlings and induces susceptibility to F. oxysporum.

Salicylic Acid and Gemma-Aminobutyric Acid Mediated Regulation of Growth, Metabolites, Antioxidant Defense System and Nutrient Uptake in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Under Arsenic Stress.

Arsenic (As) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic pollutant commonly found in soil and water, posing significant risks to human health and plant growth. The objectives of this study to evaluate morphological, biochemical, and physiological markers, as well as ion homeostasis, to alleviate the toxic effects of As in sunflowers through the exogenous application of salicylic acid (SA), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and their combination. A pot experiment was conducted using two sunflower genotypes, FH-779 and FH-773, subjected to As stress (60mg kg-1) to evaluate the effects of SA at 100mg L-1, GABA at 200mg L-1, and their combination on growth and related physiological and biochemical attributes under As stress. The study revealed that As toxicity had a detrimental effect on various growth parameters, chlorophyll pigments, relative water content, total proteins, and nutrient uptake in sunflower plants. It also led to increased oxidative stress, as indicated by higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), along with As accumulation in the roots and leaves. However, the application of SA and GABA protected against As-induced damage by enhancing the enzymatic antioxidant defense system. This was achieved through the activation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) activities, as well as an increase in osmolytes. They also improved nutrient acquisition and plant growth under As toxicity. We investigated the regulatory roles of SA and GABA in mitigating arsenic-induced phytotoxic effects on sunflower. Our results revealed a significant interaction between SA and GABA in regulating growth, photosynthesis, metabolites, antioxidant defense systems, and nutrient uptake in sunflower under As stress. These findings provide valuable insights into plant defense mechanisms and strategies to enhance stress tolerance in contaminated environments. In the future, SA and GABA could be valuable tools for managing stress in other important crops facing abiotic stress conditions.

Enhancement of cryopreserved rooster semen and fertility potential after oral administration of Thai ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) extract in Thai native chickens.

Semen cryopreservation is an effective method of preserving genetic material, particularly in native chicken breeds facing a substantial decline. In this study, we evaluated the quality of frozen/thawed rooster semen treated with different concentrations of oral administrations of black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora: KP) extract and determined its fertility. Thirty-two Thai native roosters (Pradu Hang Dum, 42 weeks old) were used in this study. The treatments were classified into four groups according to the concentration of KP extract administered to the roosters: 0, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg body weight. The quality of fresh semen was analyzed before cryopreservation. Post-thaw sperm quality and fertility potential were determined. Also, lipid peroxidation was determined. The results showed that sperm concentration and movement increased in roosters treated with 200 mg/kg of KP extract (p<0.05). The malondialdehyde (MDA) in the roosters receiving 200 mg/kg KP extract was lower than that in the other but had an insignificant difference within the KP treatment groups (p>0.05). The highest MDA levels were observed in the control group (p<0.05). The percentage of motile sperm (total motility and progressive motility) after semen thawing was higher in roosters that received 150 and 200 mg/kg KP extract than in those that received 100 mg/kg KP extract and the control (p<0.05). MDA levels decreased significantly in roosters that received 150 and 200 mg/kg KP extract than in those that received 100 mg/kg KP extract and the control (p<0.05). Fertility and hatchability were greater in the KP150 and KP200 groups than in the KP100 and control groups (p<0.05). The optimal amount of KP extract influencing initial sperm quality was determined to be 200 mg/kg. However, 150 mg/kg was the optimal low dosage of KP extract administration that maintained sperm quality and fertility following semen cryopreservation.

Malondialdehyde as a Prognosticating Marker for Staging of HIE - A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Prediction of outcomes of asphyxiated neonates is imperative. Timely intervention and effective resuscitation are beneficial for intact neurodevelopmental outcomes. In this study, we assessed the level of oxidative stress at birth in cord blood and correlated it with the Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) staging and outcomes.&#x0D; Methodology: This Prospective Cohort Study was conducted between January 2020 and June 2022. All neonates requiring resuscitation at birth were enrolled in a study group. The control group included neonates who did not require resuscitation. Cord blood was collected at birth, centrifuged, serum separated, and stored at -200C. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was read at 535nm on spectrometry.&#x0D; Results: 102 neonates were enrolled, among which 29 neonates were asphyxiated and 73 non-asphyxiated. The cord blood mean MDA level was significantly high in Severe HIE, with a p-value of &lt;0.001. The serum MDA level in cord blood had a significant difference in asphyxiated neonates (8.59±1.99) and normal neonates (3.18±1.04) (P&lt;0.001). There is a significant difference in MDA levels in cord blood; the mean MDA level was significantly higher in HIE III (10.93±2.50), compared to HIE II (9.98±2.34) and HIE I(7.72±1.09) with a p-value of &lt;0.001. Deceased neonates had higher MDA levels than those neonates who survived.&#x0D; Conclusion: Neonates with high oxidative stress at birth require advanced resuscitation. MDA levels above 7.64 mm/L have 100% sensitivity and 81.4% specificity with respect to mortality in asphyxiated neonates. Hence, cord blood MDA can be a prognostic marker of oxidative stress to predict the outcomes in asphyxiated neonates.

EVALUATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS BIOMARKERS MDA AND SOD IN OCCUPATIONALLY EXPOSED ALUMINUM WORKERS IN ONITSHA, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Aim: This research study was conducted to evaluate oxidative stress biomarkers using malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in aluminum workers exposed to occupational hazards. Research Method: The participants were recruited from an industrial area in Onitsha and divided into two groups: an exposure group composed of workers occupationally exposed to aluminum and a control group without exposure. The method of Gutteridge and Wilkins, (1982) was used for the estimation of malondialdehyde levels. SOD activity was measured according to the method as described by Misra and Fridovich, 1972. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 (IBM, USA, 2018). Independent T-test, descriptive, statistics, and Spearman correlation were used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed a significant increase in MDA in the aluminum workers group (3.53±1.04) as compared to the control group (1.65±0.58) (p&lt;0.005). The SOD levels were reduced in the aluminum workers (21.55±3.85) as compared with the control samples (24.12±3.54) (p&lt;0.005), indicating an elevation of oxidative stress. The study results revealed a significant positive correlation between MDA levels, age and duration of exposure. The SOD levels revealed a nonsignificant negative correlation with age and a significant correlation with duration of exposure. Conclusion: The findings indicate that long-term occupational exposure to aluminum can lead to increased oxidative stress, as indicated by higher MDA levels and lower SOD levels

Enhancing salt stress tolerance in kidney beans: The synergistic effects of biochar and salicylic acid in arid and semi-arid regions

Salt stress is one of the most damaging environmental stresses of recent times and poses a significant threat to food security. Here, we conducted an experimental study over two consecutive years (2022–2023) to evaluate the physiological and biochemical characteristics of kidney beans. The study used a randomized complete block design with 4 replications (n = 4). The experiment included three levels of salicylic acid (SA): SA0 (0 mM), SA0.5 (0.5 mM) and SA1 (1 mM). The study also used biochar in four levels, without biochar as the control treatment (B0), regular biochar (Rb) by 2.5 % per soil weight, modified biochar with phosphoric acid (PA) by 1.25 % per soil weight, and modified biochar with sulfuric acid (Sb) by 1.25 % per soil weight. Additionally, salt stress (SS) was induced using NaCl in three levels, SS0 (distilled water), SS4 (4 4 dS m−1), and SS8 (8 dS m−1). The results showed that salt stress, biochar, and salicylic acid significantly affected the measured parameters. Salt stress (SS4 and SS8) negatively affected the measured parameters compared to the control. However, the application of biochar and salicylic acid regulated the alleviation of the impact of salt stress. Under SS4, the application of Rb along with SA1 resulted in the highest value of proline content. The highest enzymatic activity of catalase was observed due to the use of PA in combination with SA0.5 under non-saline soil conditions. The use of PA under SS8 increased the hydrogen peroxide and caused the highest activity, while the lowest activity was obtained under non-saline soil conditions with the application of Sb. In the first year of the experiment, it was found that the use of SA1 without biochar under non-stress conditions resulted in the highest levels of malondialdehyde. Likewise, in the second year, the highest malondialdehyde activity was observed by applying Rb and SA1 under SS8. The research concludes that kidney bean plants are significantly impacted by salt stress, which affects their biochemical characteristics. Nonetheless, the combined application of biochar and salicylic acid showed promise in addressing these challenges. This approach could be particularly effective in managing salinity issues in arid and semi-arid regions, highlighting the potential of biochar and salicylic acid for improving plant resilience under such conditions.

Связь гена GSTP1 с функциональным состоянием почек у больных сахарным диабетом

Introduction of point genetic associations into clinical and laboratory diagnosis will allow the physician to determine the risk of severe diabetes mellitus and its complications with a focus on detection of the genetically determined disorder. The study was aimed to identify the molecular genetic markers of severe diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) based on the GSTP1 (I105V) gene assessment. Genotyping of the GSTP1 gene I105V locus was performed in patients with type 1 and 2 DM. Then we identified the features of oxidative status, free radical oxidation, and renal function in patients with various polymorphic variants of the studied gene. Patients with type 1 DM, who were carriers of the GSTP1 heterozygous polymorphic variant (Ile/Val), showed higher activity of the oxidative stress enzymes (glutathione-S-transferase, catalase) and malondialdehyde compared to homozygous carriers (р &lt; 0.001, р &lt; 0.001, р &lt; 0.05). They also showed a significant increase in the levels of triglycerides (1.6-fold) and the glycated hemoglobin levels (1.1-fold) (p &lt; 0.05). Patients with type 2 DM, who were carriers of the GSTP1 polymorphism homozygous for allele 2 (Val\Val), had a higher level of malondialdehyde (100.5 µmol/L, (р &lt; 0.001)), which was associated with the more severe diabetic nephropathy (average glomerular filtration rate — 48 mL/min/1.73 m2, 24-h urinary albumin excretion — 0.9 g/L; р &lt; 0.01). It has been proposed to assess the GSTP1 (I105V) gene in individuals with type 1 and 2 DM. This polymorphism that is heterozygous in individuals with type 1 DM and homozygous for allele 2 in individuals with type 2 DM is unfavorable in terms of the DM course and complications.

Neferine inhibits the progression of diabetic nephropathy by modulating the miR-17-5p/nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 axis.

To investigate the effect of Neferine (Nef) on diabetic nephropathy (DN) and to explore the mechanism of Nef in DN based on miRNA regulation theory. A DN mouse model was constructed and treated with Nef. Serum creatinine (Crea), blood urea (UREA) and urinary albumin were measured in mice by kits, and renal histopathological changes and fibrosis were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining. Renal tissue superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blotting was used to detect the expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) signaling pathway-related proteins in kidney tissues. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of miR-17-5p in kidney tissues. Subsequently, a DN in vitro model was constructed by high glucose culture of human mesangial cells (HMCs), cells were transfected with miR-17-5p mimic and/or treated with Nef, and we used qRT-PCR to detect cellular miR-17 expression, flow cytometry to detect apoptosis, ELISAs to detect cellular SOD, MDA, and GSH-Px activities, Western blots to detect Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway-related protein expression, and dual luciferase reporter gene assays to verify the targeting relationship between Nrf2 and miR-17-5p. Administration of Nef significantly reduced the levels of blood glucose, Crea, and UREA and the expression of miR-17-5p, improved renal histopathology and fibrosis, significantly reduced MDA levels, elevated SOD and GSH-Px activities, and activated Nrf2 expression in kidney tissues from mice with DN. Nrf2 is a post-transcriptional target of miR-17-5p. In HMCs transfected with miR-17-5p mimics, the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2 were significantly suppressed. Furthermore, miR-17-5p overexpression and Nef intervention resulted in a significant increase in high glucose-induced apoptosis and MDA levels in HMCs and a significant decrease in the protein expression of HO-1 and Nrf2. Collectively, these results indicate that Nef has an ameliorative effect on DN, and the mechanism may be through the miR-17-5p/Nrf2 pathway.

Ecophysiological response of Populus alba L. to multiple stress factors during the revitalisation of coal fly ash lagoons at different stages of weathering.

The enormous quantities of fly ash (FA) produced by thermal power plants is a global problem and safe, sustainable approaches to reduce the amount and its toxic effects are still being sought. Vegetation cover comprising long-living species can help reduce FA dump-related environmental health issues. However, the synergistic effect of multiple abiotic factors, like drought, low organic matter content, a deficit of essential nutrients, alkaline pH, and phytotoxicity due to high potentially toxic element (PTE) and soluble salt content, limits the number of species that can grow under such stressful conditions. Thus, we hypothesised that Populus alba L., which spontaneously colonised two FA disposal lagoons at the 'Nikola Tesla A' thermal power plant (Obrenovac, Serbia) 3 years (L3) and 11 years (L11) ago, has high restoration potential thanks to its stress tolerance. We analysed the basic physical and chemical properties of FA at different weathering stages, while the ecophysiological response of P. alba to multiple stresses was determined through biological indicators [the bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) for PTEs (As, B, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Se, and Zn)] and by measuring the following parameters: photosynthetic efficiency and chlorophyll concentration, non-enzymatic antioxidant defence (carotenoids, anthocyanins, and phenols), oxidative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations), and total antioxidant capacity (IC50) to neutralise DPPH free radical activity. Unlike at L3, toxic As, B, and Zn concentrations in leaves induced oxidative stress in P. alba at L11, shown by the higher MDA levels, lower vitality, and reduced synthesis of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and total antioxidant activity, suggesting its stress tolerance decreases with long-term exposure to adverse abiotic factors. Although P. alba is a fast-growing species with good metal accumulation ability and high stress tolerance, it has poor stabilisation potential for substrates with high As and B concentrations, making it highly unsuitable for revitalising such habitats.

Reduced SIRT1 and SIRT3 and Lower Antioxidant Capacity of Seminal Plasma Is Associated with Shorter Sperm Telomere Length in Oligospermic Men.

Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide and has a profound impact not only on their families, but also on communities. Telomere attrition has been associated with infertility, DNA damage and fragmentation. Oxidative stress has been shown to affect sperm DNA integrity and telomere length. Sirtuins such as SIRT1 and SIRT3 are involved in aging and oxidative stress response. The aim of the present study is to determine the role of SIRT1 and SIRT3 in regulating oxidative stress, telomere shortening, and their association with oligospermia. Therefore, we assessed the protein levels of SIRT1 and SIRT3, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase activity (CAT) in the seminal plasma of 272 patients with oligospermia and 251 fertile men. We also measured sperm telomere length (STL) and leukocyte telomere length (LTL) using a standard real-time quantitative PCR assay. Sperm chromatin and protamine deficiency were also measured as per standard methods. Our results for oligospermic patients demonstrate significant reductions in semen parameters, shorter STL and LTL, lower levels of SOD, TAC, CAT, SIRT1 and SIRT3 levels, and also significant protamine deficiency and higher levels of MDA and DNA fragmentation. We conclude that a shorter TL in sperms and leukocytes is associated with increased oxidative stress that also accounts for high levels of DNA fragmentation in sperms. Our results support the hypothesis that various sperm parameters in the state of oligospermia are associated with or caused by reduced levels of SIRT1 and SIRT3 proteins.

Leverage of Matricaria chamomilla L. Oil Supplementation over Ochratoxin A in Growing Quails

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is one of the mycotoxins in the agriculture and livestock sectors. The poultry sector suffered from significant economic losses due to the adverse impacts of OTA on the growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and livability. Thus, the present investigation aimed to determine the impact of chamomile essential oil supplementation against OTA toxicity in growing quails. 360 one‐week‐old growing quails were distributed into six groups (n = 60) with four replicates of 15 birds. The groups were G1 (control negative), G2 (OTA 1 mg/kg diet, control positive), G3 (chamomile oil 0.5 g/kg diet), G4 (chamomile oil 1 g/kg diet), G5 (OTA 1 mg/kg diet + chamomile oil 0.5 g/kg diet), and G6 (OTA 1 mg/kg diet + chamomile oil 1 g/kg diet). Adding OTA significantly (P &lt; 0.05) reduced live body weight and weight gain at 5 weeks. Feed intake at 5 weeks was nonsignificantly reduced in G3 and G4 compared to G1. G4 showed a significant (P &lt; 0.05) increase in weight gain and the lowest feed conversion ratio. The G2 showed the lowest superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione transferase (GST) activity, and the highest levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, they showed a significant improvement in liver enzymes and kidney function tests and a significant (P &lt; 0.05) reduction in the levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Chamomile supplementation alone or with OTA significantly (P &lt; 0.05) increased immunoglobulin M, G, A, and complement 3 than OTA alone. Chamomile oil with an OTA diet or alone reduced the negative effects of OTA and improved the performance, antioxidant status, lipid profile, and immunological state of growing Japanese quails.