Total Antioxidant Capacity Levels Research Articles

Therapeutic Effects of Althaea officinalis L. and Metformin on Estradiol-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Rats: Insights into The PI3K/AKT Pathway, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most important causes of infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and anovulation in women. The current study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Althaea officinalis L. (A. officinale) extract on PCOS in rats. In this experimental study, 70 rats in 7 groups (n=10/group) were studied for three weeks as follows; healthy control (HC), patient (PCOS), metformin (PCOS+MET), A. officinale treatment (PCOS+250 and 500 mg/kg A. officinale) and synergistic (PCOS+MET+250 and 500 mg/kg A. officinale) groups. Luteinizing hormone (LH), folliclestimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone (P) and testosterone (T) levels as well as inflammatory cytokines were measured. Total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation levels were analyzed in ovarian tissue. The expression of GLUT-4, AKT, PI3K, PTEN genes and Ki-67 was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry, respectively. A. officinale alone and especially in combination with MET moderated inflammatory and antioxidant parameters compared to the PCOS and MET groups. A. officinale in synergistic groups increased the apoptosis of granulosa cells by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, resulting in a rise in the number of Ki-67 positive cells (P<0.05). Furthermore, following A. officinale treatment the LH/FSH rate decreased and FSH and P increased (P<0.05). Also, A. officinale extract could effectively normalize estrus cycle duration close to the normal group. The extract of A. officinale, in combination with metformin, can enhance the hypothalamic-pituitaryovary (HPO) axis with synergistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Additionally, the extract showed apoptotic effect on cystic granulosa cells.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic Acid (AKBA) Ameliorates Histopathological and Oxidative Stress Brain Disorders in the Experimental Model of Cuprizone-induced Demyelination

Background: Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that destroys the myelin sheath (demyelination) and neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), with several factors contributing to its development. Objectives: This study investigated the impact of administering acetyl 11-keto-beta boswellic acid (AKBA) in an animal model of cuprizone-induced demyelination. Methods: Thirty-two C57BL/6 female mice (WT; 20 - 25 g, 8 - 10 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups: (1) Control (CO), (2) Cuprizone-treated (CPZ, 0.3%), (3) AKBA + CPZ (50 mg/kg, pre-treatment), and (4) CPZ + AKBA (50 mg/kg, post-treatment). At the end of the study, the weight and movement balance of the animals were assessed using the rotarod test. After sampling the brain, the extent of the demyelination area in the corpus callosum was measured with Luxol Fast Blue staining, the number of oligodendrocyte cells was determined by immunohistochemistry, and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as oxidative stress factors in the brain tissue were measured. Results: The use of acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid in the cuprizone-induced demyelination model prevented weight loss, increased animal resistance in the rotarod test, and reduced the demyelination rate in the corpus callosum. Additionally, AKBA elevated the number of oligodendrocytes and total antioxidant capacity levels while reducing malondialdehyde levels in brain tissue. Pretreatment with AKBA exhibited a more significant effect. Conclusions: This study showed that acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid, an important active substance of the frankincense plant, likely protects the nervous system and neurons in the cuprizone-induced demyelination model by preventing the decrease in the number of oligodendrocytes, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing the destruction of myelin.

Effects of including different levels of equal mix of soybean and flaxseed oils in Japanese quail diets on the growth, carcass quality, and blood biomarkers

Corn, the primary ingredient in modern poultry feeds, contains high levels of ω-6 fatty acids but lacks sufficient ω-3 fatty acids, creating an imbalance. Maintaining a balance between ω-6 and ω-3 fatty acids in poultry diets is crucial due to their competition. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating different concentrations of an equal mix of soybean oil (SO) and flaxseed oil (FO) into quail diets on growth performance, carcass quality, and blood biochemistry. One-week-old Japanese quail birds (n=200) were randomly assigned to four dietary groups, each comprising five replicates with 10 chicks per replicate. Four isonitrogenous/isocaloric basal diets were formulated. Group 1 (control) received a basal diet without SO or FO, while Groups 2-4 received basal diets supplemented with an equal mix of SO+FO at levels of 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0%, respectively. The inclusion of oil mixes significantly increased body weight (BW) at five weeks and daily weight gain (DWG) during weeks 3-5 and 1-5. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved with the addition of oil mixes throughout the trial period. Supplementing quail diets with oil mixes resulted in reduced serum total cholesterol (TC) and LDL cholesterol, elevated serum HDL cholesterol, and no significant effect on triglycerides (TG) and VLDL cholesterol levels. Quails fed oil-supplemented diets showed lower serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and creatinine levels, while urea and uric acid were significantly affected. Birds fed diets with oil mixes also had increased serum concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgY), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). However, serum immunoglobulin A (IgA), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels did not significantly change across experimental groups. Overall, adding up to 2% of the SO and FO mix in growing quail feeds improved growth performance, blood lipid profile, liver and kidney function markers, immune response, and antioxidant defense. The highest level of oil mix (2%) yielded the most beneficial effects.

Investigating the effects of vitamin B12 and Myo-inositol on human sperm parameters during the freeze-thaw process

Background and aims: While sperm freezing has proven to be beneficial for addressing clinical needs, it can also have negative impacts on sperm function. However, it has been observed that additives with antioxidant properties can help alleviate the damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cold shock. The objective of this research was to examine the effects of incorporating vitamin B12 and Myo-inositol into the freezing medium on human sperm and how they influence sperm parameters. Methods: The semen samples of 20 people with normal fertility were divided into four equal parts after preparation, including the control group, vitamin B12, Myo-inositol, and both vitamin B12 and Myo-inositol. Sperm parameters were examined after melting and washing the samples. The obtained data were analyzed with SPSS software (version 23) and analysis of variance (P&lt;0.05). Results: The results revealed that the groups receiving antioxidants experienced a significant improvement in sperm motility, viability, morphology, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels compared to the control group. Based on the obtained data, the average sperm motility in the control group was 40.65±4, which was less than that of the B12 group’s average (49.5±5.92), the Myo-inositol group (68.70±15.42), and the vitamin B12+Myo-inositol group (71.5±8.63), and this difference was significant (P&lt;.001). Conclusion: According to the findings, the quality of sperm and the rate of recovery of sperm parameters increase with an increase in the TAC concentration and a decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration.

Selected micro- and macro-element associations with oxidative status markers in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) blood serum and ejaculate: a correlation study

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to (1) determine complex interactions between macro- and micro-elements present in blood serum and ejaculate of common carp (Cyprinus carpio), and (2) examine the association between alterations in these macro- and micro-elements with markers of oxidative stress. Blood and ejaculate from 10 male carp were collected in the summer period on the experimental pond in Kolíňany (West Slovak Lowland). Reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), protein carbonyls (PC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in blood serum and ejaculate using spectrophotometric methods. The amounts of elements (Ag, Al, Ba, Co, Li, Mo, Ca, K, Na, and Mg) in all samples were quantified using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometry. Data demonstrated significant differences in elemental concentrations between blood and ejaculate, specifically significantly higher ejaculate levels were detected for Ag, Al, Ba, Co, Li, Mo, K, and Mg. Potassium was the most abundant macro-element in the ejaculate, while sodium was the most abundant in blood serum. Among the micro-elements, Al was predominant in both types of samples. It is noteworthy that oxidative status markers including ROS, TAC, and MDA were significantly higher in ejaculate indicating the presence of oxidative stress in C. carpio reproductive tissue. The positive correlations between Mg and Ca in blood serum and ejaculate suggest these elements play a functional role in metabolic and physiological processes. In contrast, the positive correlations of Ba and Al with markers of oxidative stress indicated the association of these metals with induction of oxidative stress. Our findings provide insights into the association of metals with biomarkers of physiological function as well as adverse effects in C. carpio.

A Comparative Analysis of Two Agonist Muscle Superset Training Variations on Muscle Damage and Oxidative Stress Markers in Resistance-Trained Men

Background: Evidence suggests that heavy resistance activities can damage muscle cell membranes by increasing free radical production. However, the specific type of resistance activity and the adaptations made by resistance-trained men can influence oxidative stress indicators and muscle damage. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the acute impact of two agonist muscle superset resistance training protocols on malondialdehyde (MDA), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT) in resistance-trained men. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design was conducted. Ten resistance-trained men (age: 24.25 ± 4.92 years; height: 175.12 ± 19.6 cm; weight: 74.75 ± 8.44 kg) participated in one of two superset agonist muscle resistance training protocols (post-exhaustion supersets and pre-exhaustion supersets). Subjects performed three sets of ten repetitions at an intensity of 80% of their 1-repetition maximum (1RM). Blood samples were taken immediately before and 24 hours after each session, and serum levels of MDA, CK, LDH, TAC, and CAT were evaluated. Results: Both types of superset resistance training significantly increased MDA, CK, LDH, TAC, and CAT levels, with no significant difference in the effects on MDA, CK, and LDH. However, a significant difference was observed between the two training protocols in terms of TAC and CAT, with post-exhaustion supersets showing a greater increase in these antioxidant indices. Conclusions: A single session of both protocols can induce oxidative stress and muscle damage in resistance-trained men. Additionally, post-exhaustion superset training of agonist muscles may have a greater impact on enhancing antioxidant capacity.

L‐arginine mitigates choroid plexus changes in Alzheimer’s disease rat model via oxidative/inflammatory burden and behavioral modulation

Aging is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), leading to choroid plexus (CP) alterations. This study aimed to explore the possible therapeutic mechanisms of ARG on AD-induced CP changes. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups (n = 7 per group): adult, adult+ARG, aged, aged+ARG, aged+AD, and aged+AD+ARG groups. Evaluations were for Y-maze test, serum levels of oxidative/inflammatory markers, and serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of AD, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and histomorphometry. The aged+AD group demonstrated a significant decline in maze test parameters, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) immunoexpression, while tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), beta-amyloid (Aβ) levels and amyloid protein precursor (APP), and heat shock protein90 (HSP90) immunoexpressions were significantly increased. Sections of this group showed flat epitheliocytes, congested capillaries, connective tissue expansion, and degenerated endothelium. These parameters were modulated by ARG administration, via increased levels of TAC (1.37 vs 2.17 mmol/L), (p = 0.018) BDNF (serum: 48.50 vs 78.41; CSF: 4.07 vs 7.11 pg/ml) (p< 0.001), and VEGF (0.07 vs 0.26 OD) (p< 0.001), in addition to decreased levels of TNF-α (86.63 vs 41.39 pg/ml) (p< 0.001), IL-1β (96.04 vs 39.57 pg/ml) (p< 0.001), Aβ (serum: 67.40 vs 47.30; CSF: 189.26 vs 169.84 pg/ml) (p< 0.001), and HSP90 (0.54 vs 0.13 OD) (p< 0.001). In conclusion, ARG ameliorates the AD-associated CP changes, including histopathological, oxidative/inflammatory, and AD markers, and VEGF and HSP90 immunohistochemical alterations. Dietary ARG consumption is recommended to avoid AD progression in the elderly.

Activation of GABABR Attenuates Intestinal Inflammation by Reducing Oxidative Stress through Modulating the TLR4/MyD88/NLRP3 Pathway and Gut Microbiota Abundance.

Oxidative stress emerges as a prominent factor in the onset and progression of intestinal inflammation, primarily due to its critical role in damaging cells and tissues. GABAergic signaling is important in the occurrence and development of various intestinal disorders, yet its effect on oxidative stress remains unclear. We attempted to assess whether GABAergic signaling participated in the regulation of oxidative stress during enteritis. The results showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly decreased γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the ileal tissues of mice. Interestingly, the application of GABA significantly repressed the shedding of intestinal mucosal epithelial cells and inflammatory cell infiltration, inhibited the expressions of proinflammatory factors, including granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, and enhanced the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10, indicating that GABA could alleviate enteritis in mice. This observation was further supported by transcriptome sequencing, revealing a total of 271 differentially expressed genes, which exhibited a marked enrichment of inflammatory and immune-related pathways, alongside a prominent enhancement of GABA B receptor (GABABR) signaling following GABA administration. Effectively, Baclofen pretreatment alleviated intestinal mucosal damage in LPS-induced mice, suppressed proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha expressions, and boosted total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels. Moreover, Baclofen notably enhanced the viability of LPS-stimulated IPEC-J2 cells, contracted the proinflammatory secretion factors, and reinforced SOD, GSH, and catalase levels, emphasizing the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects associated with GABABR activation. Mechanistically, Baclofen restrained the mRNA and protein levels of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), and inducible nitric oxide synthase, while elevating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 in both mice and IPEC-J2 cells, indicating that activating GABABR strengthened antioxidant abilities by interrupting the TLR4/MyD88/NLRP3 pathway. Furthermore, 16S rDNA analysis demonstrated that Baclofen increased the relative abundance of probiotic, particularly Lactobacillus, renowned for its antioxidant properties, while reducing the relative richness of harmful bacteria, predominantly Enterobacteriaceae, suggesting that GABABR signaling may have contributed to reversing intestinal flora imbalances to relieve oxidative stress in LPS-induced mice. Our study identified previously unappreciated roles for GABABR signaling in constricting oxidative stress to attenuate enteritis, thus offering novel insights for the treatment of intestinal inflammation.

Impact of weight variation on the microbiome of yak dams and calves.

Limited information exists regarding the microbiome composition of yak calves of varying weights. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the microbiomes of mother-calf pairs with different weight profiles. Fecal and blood samples were collected from both lower-weight (CB) and higher-weight (HB) yak calves, along with their corresponding female yaks (CA, HA). The results revealed significantly higher levels of T-AOC (total antioxidant capacity) and GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase) in HB animals (p < 0.001). Sequencing yielded 652,181 and 643,369 filtered reads in female and calf yaks, respectively. Alpha diversity analysis indicated that Chao1, Faith_pd, and Observed species were significantly higher in CA compared to HA (p < 0.01). Furthermore, nine genera were notably different between HA and CA yaks, including Avispirillum, Fimenecus, CAG-1031, Odoribacter 865974, and Jeotgalicoccus A 310962. Compared to CB yaks, CA animals exhibited significant differences in one phylum and six genera, including CAG-485 (p < 0.05), CAG-83 (p < 0.01), Copromorpha (p < 0.01), Phocaeicola A 858004 (p < 0.05), and UBA2253 (p < 0.05). In summary, higher-weight yak calves demonstrated increased oxidative resistance, and weight profiles were linked to the microbiomes of both female yaks and their calves. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing yak breeding practices in high-altitude regions.

The Biochemical Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Quercus brantii Fruit on Morphine-Induced Amnesia in the Presence and Absence of Cholinergic Muscarinic Receptors in Adult Male Mice

Background: In our previous study, we demonstrated that oak hydroalcoholic extract improves memory impairment in a postpartum depression model due to its antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study is to further investigate the effect of oak on another amnesia model and explore the mediating role of cholinergic muscarinic receptors. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of oak fruit on amnesia induced by morphine in the presence and absence of cholinergic muscarinic receptors, as well as changes in serum biochemical factors. Methods: In this experimental study, adult male mice were divided into groups: Control and morphine-receiving (5 and 7.5 mg/kg) groups to induce amnesia after training. In the groups receiving 7.5 mg/kg morphine, oak extract (1 and 10 mg/kg) was administered one day after training and continued for one week. Atropine (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) was injected only on the first day after training and before the oak extract injection. Passive avoidance memory was evaluated 1, 3, and 7 days after training using a step-down device. Motor activity was assessed using the open field test. Blood biochemical factors, including triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), were measured after one week of injections. Results: Morphine (7.5 mg/kg) impaired memory on days 1 and 7 (P &lt; 0.05), while oak extract (1 and 10 mg/kg) improved memory (P &lt; 0.001). Additionally, the oak extract maintained its enhancing effect even in the presence of atropine, a cholinergic muscarinic system antagonist. Oak extract significantly increased HDL and TAC levels but did not affect LDL, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that oak extract can improve morphine-induced amnesia due to its antioxidant effect, without involving the cholinergic system. Additionally, oak extract can increase beneficial lipids without affecting harmful lipids.

The effect of vitamin C on the recovery of activity and survival of autografted ovaries through inhibition of oxidation and inflammation

Ovarian tissue autografting is a valuable clinical option to help restore fertility in women with cancer. However, many follicles are lost due to ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury, which depletes follicles after grafting. We aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin C, an antioxidant with anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties, on improving the structure and function of autografted ovaries in mice. Thirty-six female NMRI mice (4–5 weeks old) were divided into three groups of 12: control (no grafting), autograft + vitamin C (50 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally), and autograft + saline (100 µl/day/animal, intraperitoneally). After the ovarian autografting and before the start of the experiment, each group was further divided into 7-day and 28-day subgroups. Seven days after ovary autografting, serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and inflammatory factors were measured. On day 28, ovarian histology, DNA fragmentation, and estradiol and progesterone levels were assessed. Results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test, with significance set at p<0.05. In the autograft + vitamin C group, there were significant increases in the mean total volume of the ovary, cortex (p<0.05), medulla, number of follicles, and levels of IL-10, progesterone, estradiol, and TAC (p<0.001), compared to the autograft group. Conversely, the rate of apoptosis and serum levels of MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α were notably reduced in the autograft + vitamin C group (p<0.001). These results suggest that vitamin C can significantly enhance the recovery of autografted ovaries through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Dose-response curves for the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, feed utilization, and health status of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp. Optimizing the economic efficiency of supplementation

Abstract A 14-weeks feeding trial was conducted to employ polynomial regression analysis to establish the optimal dosage of Lactobacillus plantarum (Lac) for enhancing the growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, and blood biochemical, redox balance, and immunity response of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp (initial body weight = 2.94 ± 0.03 g). A total of 240 healthy Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp were randomly distributed into four equal groups and were fed diets containing 0, 200, 400 and 800 mg Lac /kg diet respectively for 98 days. Increasing the levels of dietary Lac cubically improved growth performance and feed utilization ( p &lt;0.01), the optimal doses were established at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Muscles thickness decreased significantly in all treated group compared to the control ( p &lt;0.05). The dietary treatment quadratic ally affected total protein ( p &lt;0.0001), tri-glycerides ( p &lt;0.0001), and cortisol ( p =0.0097), the optimal responses were observed at 650, 700, and 600 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Meanwhile the activities of liver enzymes (ALT and AST), the levels of blood urea and digestive enzymes (amylase and proteases) were cubically enhanced by the treatment, the optimal dosages were at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet for liver enzymes, and urea concentration, respectively and at 650 and 700 mg Lac/kg diet for the activities of amylase and protease, respectively. With regards to redox balance, increasing the levels of Lac caused a quadratic decrease in the levels of malondialdehyde ( p =0.0398) and a cubic increase in the activities of superoxide dismutase ( p =0.0265), and catalase ( p =0.0163), the corresponding dose–response curves showed that the optimal dose was at 650 mg/kg diet. However, the levels of total antioxidant capacity were in a quadratic increase ( p =0.0372), maximizing at a level of 600 mg Lac / kg diet. Concerning the immunity response, both of lysozyme and IgM significantly affected by the dietary treatment ( p =0.0002 and 0.0001, respectively), maximizing at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Dietary supplementation of Lac had significant and substantial impacts on the economic efficiency ( p &lt;0.0001). In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of 600-700 mg Lac /kg diet can be used as an effective and practical feeding strategy to enhanced growth performance, feed efficacy, redox balance and nonspecific immune responses in Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp.

Effects of high-dose selenium-enriched Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance, antioxidant status, tissue fat content and selenium concentration, and selenoenzyme mRNA expression in chicks

Selenium-enriched Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SSC) as organic selenium (Se) has been shown to have better advantages and is approved for use in animal feed rather than inorganic Se, however, there is little available data on the toxic effects of SSC on poultry. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of high-dose SSC on growth performance, antioxidant status, tissue fat content and Se concentration, and selenoenzyme mRNA expression in chicks. A total of 500, 1-day-old SPF chicks were randomly divided into 5 groups with 10 replicates of 10 chicks each. Group 1 served as a control and was fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.15 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), group 2 was fed the basic diet supplemented with 1.5 mg/kg Se from SS, while groups 3, 4, and 5 were fed the basal diet supplemented with 1.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg Se from SSC, respectively. The results showed that SS and SSC supplementation significantly affected the average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed/gain ratio (FCR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, tissue fat content and Se concentration, and GPx1 and GPx4 mRNA levels compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with group 2, group 3 exhibited higher GPx and SOD activities, tissue Se concentration, and lower MDA content on d 30, and higher Se concentration, GPx1 mRNA levels in liver and breast muscle and GPx4 mRNA levels in liver and thigh muscle, and lower MDA content on d 60 (P < 0.05). The results of correlation analysis showed that high-dose SSC supplementation was positively correlated with AFDI, FCR, MDA content, and tissue Se concentration, and negatively correlated with GPx and SOD activities, T-AOC, GPx1 and GPx4 mRNA levels in tissues. In conclusion, up to 1.5 mg/kg Se from SSC in diet may be a safe concentration for chicks that exhibited better biological effects than SS, the toxic effects of high-dose SSC supplementation mainly exhibited growth decrease, peroxidation and lipid metabolism disturbance, and became stronger with the increase of dietary Se levels.

Consumption of a new developed synbiotic yogurt improves oxidative stress status in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and oxidative stress has been shown in numerous studies. It has been shown that probiotics could be the effective treatment strategy in improving oxidative stress. This study aimed to determine the effects of a new developed synbiotic yogurt on oxidative stress status in adults with MetS. Forty-four individuals were assigned into two groups and given 300 g of synbiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus pentosus, and Chloromyces marcosianos yeast or regular yogurt for 12 weeks in this randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Before and after the intervention, biochemical parameters were assessed. Daily consumption of synbiotic yogurt in adults with MetS showed a statistically significant improvement in the level of glutathione peroxidase (p = 0.01) and total oxidant status (p = 0.006) compared to the regular yogurt. Total Antioxidant Capacity and superoxide dismutase levels increased significantly (p = 0.002 and p = 0.02, respectively) in the intervention group compared to the baseline levels. In adults with MetS, daily consumption of the synbiotic yogurt containing native strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus pentosus, and Chloromyces marcosianos yeast for 12 weeks was associated with improvements in oxidative stress status.Trial registration number: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20220426054667N1) (18/05/2022)

Effect of Suan Zao Ren (Semen Ziziphi Spinosae) Extract on the TXNIP/NLRP3 Pathway in Insomniac Rats

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Suan Zao Ren (Semen Ziziphi Spinosae, SZS) extract on insomnia induced by p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) in rats and its influence on the thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)/nucleotide-binding domain Leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway, and to preliminarily explore the mechanism by which SZS extract improves insomnia. Methods Fifty male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were used, with 8 rats in the blank group and 42 rats in the modeling group. The modeling group was induced by intraperitoneal injection of PCPA at a dose of 500 mg·kg−1 for six consecutive days, with daily cage exchange. After 6 days, 40 successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into five groups: the model group (equal volume of distilled water), the positive group (0.75 mg·kg−1), and low-, medium-, and high-dose SZS extract groups (1.5, 3, and 6 g·kg−1, respectively), with 8 rats in each group. Treatments were administered for seven consecutive days. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the rat cerebral cortex. The thiobarbituric acid (TBA) method was used to determine malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and the hydroxylamine method was used to determine superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) method was used to measure total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) in the cerebral cortex. Pathological changes in the cerebral cortex were observed, and Western blot was used to detect the protein expressions of TXNIP, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a Caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD), and cysteine–aspartate-specific protease 1 (Caspase-1) in the cerebral cortex. Results Compared with the blank group, the model group showed a significantly prolonged sleep latency (p &lt; 0.001) and a significantly shortened sleep duration (p &lt; 0.001). There were no changes in serum MDA and SOD levels. MDA levels in the cerebral cortex were significantly increased (p &lt; 0.001), while SOD and TAOC levels were significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.001). The 5-HT level was increased (p &lt; 0.05), and the GABA level was significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.001). SZS extract improved these conditions to varying degrees. Light microscopy showed no significant changes in cortical neurons but transmission electron microscopy revealed intact mitochondrial structures in the blank group, while the model group showed swollen and unclear mitochondria with reduced organelles. After 7 days of treatment, these conditions improved in the SZS extract groups. Compared with the blank group, the expressions of the four proteins in the model group were increased, and the expressions of these proteins were decreased in the SZS extract groups compared with the model group. Conclusion SZS extract may exert an antioxidant effect to treat insomnia by downregulating the expression of TXNIP/NLRP3 proteins and regulating oxidative stress levels in the cerebral cortex.

Effect of L-glutathione treatment on biochemical properties, antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymes activity in strawberry fruits during storage

The potential of L-glutathione (GSH) (0, 4, 16, 32 and 64 mM) to improve the post-harvest quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberries was investigated during storage (0, 5, 10, and 15 days) in this study. Results showed that weight loss in fruits treated with 64 mM GSH was significantly lower than the control. GSH treatments resulted in higher levels of total phenol content and antioxidant capacity in treated fruits of strawberry. Based on the results, GSH 64 mM significantly increased the levels of total flavonoid, anthocyanin, ascorbic acid, total soluble protein, antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). In addition, GSH 64 mM decreased Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and prevented cell membrane lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, the results of the present study showed that the use of GSH 64 mM may be a promising strategy to improve the marketability, quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberry fruits during storage.

Silymarin mitigates toxic effects of cyclophosphamide on testicular tissue and sperm parameters in mice

Cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapy drug, increases oxidative stress in sperm and testicular tissue. This study evaluated the effect of silymarin, a potent antioxidant, on the quality of sperm and testicular tissue in mice treated with cyclophosphamide. NMRI adult male mice were divided into four groups: control; cyclophosphamide (intraperitoneal injection, 100 mg/kg, once a week); cyclophosphamide + silymarin; and silymarin (intraperitoneal injection, 200 mg/kg, every other day). After a 35-day treatment period, the caudal region of the epididymis was examined for sperm parameters, the right testis was used for stereological studies, and the left testis was used to assess biochemical factors. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software, one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. In the cyclophosphamide group, there was a significant reduction in the mean total volume of testicular tissue, the average volume of seminiferous tubules and their components, and the average volume of interstitial tissue. Additionally, there was a notable decrease (p < 0.001) in the average number of Leydig cells, Sertoli cells, and sperm parameters. The mean concentration of testosterone hormone (p < 0.05) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level (p < 0.01) also significantly decreased, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) level increased significantly (p < 0.05). However, these adverse changes were mitigated in the cyclophosphamide + silymarin group compared to the cyclophosphamide group. Our results showed that silymarin as an antioxidant can mitigate the adverse effects of cyclophosphamide on testicular tissue and sperm parameters.

Investigation of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) extract supplementation to extender on post-thawing ram sperm parameters and genes-related antioxidant capacity

Ram semen cryopreservation is not so widely used compared to bull semen. This study was carried out to explore the potential of methanolic chia seed extract (MCSE) in ram semen extender on kinematics, acrosome, apoptosis, antioxidant capacity, genes-related antioxidants, and caspase-3 in post-thawing ram semen. Semen from Rahmani rams (n=5) was collected, pooled, and diluted with Tris-extender (15 % egg yolk, 1 % soybean lecithin and 5 % glycerol) supplemented with MCSE (0, 125, 250, 375, and 500 µg/mL). MCSE had 67.5 % linolenic acid, 17.99 % linoleic acid, total phenolic, and flavonoid compounds. MCSE had higher antioxidant activity by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) and FRAP (Ferric-reducing antioxidant power) assays. MCSE (500 µg/mL) significantly improved sperm motility (43.6 vs. 30.0 %), vitality (44.0 vs. 30.7 %), and membrane integrity (43.1 vs. 31.3 %) as well as sperm velocity parameters and acrosome integrity (53.4 vs. 36.2 %) after thawing. MCSE at a level of 500 µg/mL increased viability, total antioxidant capacity level, and decreased apoptotic spermatozoa and malondialdehyde levels in post-thawed semen. MCSE at levels of 250, 375, and 500 µg/mL decreased caspase-3 level to 42.8, 35.6, and 30.0 % compared to control (54.6 %) after thawing, and resulted in a clear up-regulation of antioxidant-related genes of superoxide dismutase 1, catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1, and GA-binding protein transcription factor subunit beta-1 (GAPP1). The highest impact was observed for MCSE on GAPP1 as compared to other profiles as well as for MCSE at 500 µg/mL as compared to with other levels. All MCSE levels decreased Caspase-3 mRNA by about 44, 51, 61, and 61 %, respectively. In conclusion, MCSE had higher anti-oxidative activity. Tris-soya bean lecithin extender supplemented with MCSE at a level of 500 µg/mL, as a natural antioxidant, has a vital role in maintaining the freezing ability of ram spermatozoa after cryopreservation.

Impact of singular versus combinatorial environmental stress on RONS generation in Drosophila melanogaster larvae.

We investigated environmentally correlated abiotic stressor desiccation (D), heat (H), and starvation (S) in the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) using Drosophila melanogaster larvae as an experimental model, subjected to either individual stressors or exposed to a combinatorial form of stressors (D + H, H + S, and D + S). The study was also extended to find synergistic endpoints where the impacts of all three stressors (D + H + S) were exerted simultaneously. We estimated the lethal time (LT20) at specific doses using regression and probit analyses based on the larval survival. LT20 values were used as the base-level parameter for further oxidative stress experimental analysis work. First, all stressors led to the activation of a typical common oxidative stress-mediated response irrespective of the mode of exposure. As envisaged, D. melanogaster larvae exhibited a homeostatic stress tolerance mechanism, triggering an antioxidant defense mechanism, indicated by an elevated level of total antioxidant capacity and enhanced activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase. In all types of stress-exposed regimes, we found a negative impact of stressors on the activity of mitochondrial enzyme aconitase. Elevated levels of other oxidative stress markers, viz., lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content, and advanced oxidative protein products, were obvious although the increment was treatment-specific. Desiccation stress proved to be the most dominant stressor compared to heat and starvation. Among the combination of stressors, rather than a single stressor, D + H impacted more than other binary stress exposures. Focusing on the impact of singular versus combinatorial stress exposure on RONS generation, we observed an increase in the RONS level in both singular and combinatorial forms of stress exposure although the magnitude of the increment varied with the nature of stressors and their combinations. The present study indicated an "additive" effect when all three stressors (D + H + S) operate simultaneously, rather than a "synergistic" effect.

Total Antioxidant Capacity, Salivary Catalase, and Superoxide Dismutase in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Patients

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is one of the common causes of hypothyroidism. Although various factors are involved in its development, recently the role of oxidative stress in its pathogenesis has been known. The present study aimed to investigate the level of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), and salivary superoxide dismutase (SOD) in patients with HT compared with the control group. The present case-control design included patients aged 18-80 years suffering from HT referred to the endocrine clinic. Eligible patients were selected by the available sampling method. Complete unstimulated saliva was collected under a rest state in a comfortable room between 10:00 AM and 12:00 AM and a checklist was used to collect data. The chi-square, t-test, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for data analysis using SPSS 22 software. The mean age of the participants was 36.55±9.37 years (range: 20-56). The two groups were the same in terms of age and gender (P&gt;0.05). The findings indicated that the difference in the means CAT between the two groups was 22.63 which was strongly and statistically significant (P&lt;0.001). In this study, the level of TAC and SOD in Hashimoto's thyroid patients was decreased and the level of CAT was increased. These initial findings show that oxidative stress can be associated with Hashimoto's thyroid disease or the possibility of developing this disease increase.