Antioxidant Levels Research Articles

Effects of nano-selenium and/or vitamin E supplementation on growth performance, antioxidant status, histopathology and resistance to Aspergillus flavus in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Abstract Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and/or vitamin E (VE) on the growth, body composition, metabolic parameters, histopathology, and resistance of Nile tilapia to Aspergillus flavus. Results Monosex Nile tilapia fingerlings were sourced from the Bazina farm and hatchery in Ismailia Governorate, Egypt, where the experiment was also conducted. The fish were acclimatized for 15 days before the trial. A total of 240 fingerlings (average weight 46 ± 3.0 g/fish) were divided equally across 12 concrete tanks (1 × 1 × 1.2 m, 1 m³ capacity), with 20 fish per tank. The fish were fed a control diet (T0), which was a basal diet with no supplementation, or one of three experimental diets for 60 days: T1 (1 mg SeNPs/kg), T2 (100 mg VE/kg), and T3 (1 mg SeNPs + 100 mg VE/kg). The experiment followed a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates per treatment. The combination of SeNPs and VE (T3) resulted in the best feed conversion ratio. A slight but significant increase (P < 0.05) in whole-body composition was observed in all treatment groups compared to the control. Biochemical parameters, serum digestive enzyme activity, and antioxidant levels improved significantly with dietary supplementation. Histopathological analysis revealed somewhat lacerated gill arches in fish fed SeNPs, VE, or their combination, but the overall gill structure remained normal. The SeNPs + VE group exhibited improved villi length and normal morphology of portal veins and hepatic sinusoids, though some vacuolated hepatocytes were noted. Fish in the SeNPs + VE group had the lowest mortality rates and the highest resistance to A. flavus. Conclusion Supplementing diets with SeNPs and/or VE enhances growth, body composition, biochemical parameters, and histopathology in Nile tilapia. The combination of 1 mg SeNPs + 100 mg VE/kg improves immune response and growth, offering a promising strategy to enhance Tilapia health and productivity.

Polypropylene microplastics triggered mouse kidney lipidome reprogramming combined with ROS stress as revealed by lipidomics and Raman biospectra.

Microplastics intrigue kidney toxicity such as mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation promotion. However, as an organ relying heavily on fatty acid oxidation, how microplastics influence kidney lipidomes remain unclear. Hence, we performed Raman spectra and multidimensional mass spectrometry-based shotgun lipidomics to decode kidney lipidomics landscape under polypropylene microplastics exposure. Kidney functions and cellular redox homeostasis were remarkably disturbed as revealed by levels of biochemical renal function markers, malonaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide and antioxidants. Ultrastructure alterations including the foot process fusion implied the kidney injury associated with lipidomic changes. Raman spectra successfully further confirmed the cellular change of reactive oxygen species and lipid disorders. Lipidomics showed that polypropylene microplastics caused abnormal lipidome and irregular exchange by remodeling triglycerides and phospholipids. Genes involved in lipid metabolism such as Fads1 and Elovl5 exhibited highly diversified expression profiles responding to polypropylene microplastics stress and possessed significant correlations with ROS indicators. These results explained ultrastructure alterations and aggravation of kidney injuries. Our work revealed polypropylene microplastics inducing lipidomic detriment in mouse kidney by Raman spectra and lipidomics firstly, elucidating the significances of lipidomic remodeling coupled with ROS stress in the kidney damages. The findings provided reliable evidence on the health risks of polypropylene microplastics in kidney.

Investigating the protective effects of luteolin and gallic acid from Luffa acutangula L. (Roxb.) amara (Roxb.) C. B. Clarke. Fruit pericarp against alcohol-induced liver toxicity: Extraction, bioactivity-guided fractionation, molecular docking, and dynamics studies.

Luffa acutangula var. amara (Roxb.) C.B. Clarke, known as 'Katu Koshataki' in Ayurveda, is a traditional medicinal plant in India. The juice of these fruits is recommended for chronic alcohol-induced liver diseases. This study aimed to validate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties of Luffa acutangula var. amara fruit pericarp ethanolic extract (EOLA) against ethanol-induced chronic hepatotoxicity in rats, isolate bioactive phytochemicals and in silico evaluation. Ethanolic extract of L. acutangula var. amara fruit pericarp was evaluated in chronic alcohol-induced hepatitis (20% ethanol orally twice daily for 28 days) at doses of 100 and 200mg/kg p.o. Additionally, in vivo anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential were assessed. Luteolin and gallic acid were isolated using bioactivity guided fractionation. Furthermore, these phytochemicals were assessed for hepatoprotective potential using molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies against different targets. The EOLA demonstrated efficacy in stabilizing elevated biochemical markers and antioxidant levels associated with ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats, and it preserved the normal architecture of hepatocytes in histological analyses compared to the ethanol control group. The EOLA was subjected to fractionation using hexane: chloroform (8:2 → 2:8), followed by chloroform: methanol (8:2 → 2:8) to yield a total eight fractions. The fractions 1, 2, and 3 showed potent antioxidant potential, yielding luteolin and gallic acid as LAC-1 and LAC-3 from fractions 1 and 8, respectively. Gallic acid and luteolin were investigated using molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation techniques to assess their interactions with key proteins such as Cytochrome P450 2C9, Superoxide Dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase, Glutathione S-Transferase, Catalase, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-ϒ, Vanin-1, and Cannabinoid Receptor CB2. The metabolites exhibit strong binding stability, with a root mean square deviation range of less than 2.8Å. It can be concluded that the fruit pericarp of L. acutangula var. amara could be used as a functional food for reducing the liver damage caused by alcohol and other factors.

Thriving in adversity: Understanding how maize seeds respond to the challenge of combined cold and high humidity stress.

Extreme conditions, such as cold and high humidity in northeast China's high-latitude maize region, can hinder crop yield and stability during the vegetative stage. However, there is a paucity of research examining the effects of simultaneous cold and high humidity stress on plant responses. In this study, we characterized the acclimation of JD558 (cold- and high humidity-sensitive hybrid) and JD441 (cold- and high humidity-tolerant hybrid) to stress at sowing caused by cold (4°C), high humidity (25%), and their combined stress for five days, using physiological measurements and metabolomics during the stress treatments and recovery stages. Cold, high humidity, and their combined stress prolonged seed development and restricted material transport, with high humidity harming seed survival more than cold. Combined stress exhibited a more significant inhibitory effect on growth than individual stress. Individual and combined stress reduced α-amylase activity, disrupted antioxidants levels, increased malondialdehyde content, disturbed the oxidative balance within seeds, and impeded seed growth and development. Most carboxylic acids and their derivatives were downregulated caused by combined stress. In JD558, sucrose, D-glucose, glucose-1-phosphate, and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate were downregulated, while these metabolites were upregulated in JD441, leading to a blockage of glycolysis in JD558. After eliminating stress, JD441 showed greater α-amylase activity and a smaller decrease in MDA levels, resulting in a smaller reduction in root growth and transport rate than JD558. In summary, the different responses of the cold and high humidity sensitive hybrid and the tolerant hybrid to combined stress are related to the recovery ability after stress elimination.

Docetaxel-induced liver and kidney toxicity in rats can be alleviated by suppressing oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy signaling pathways after Silymarin treatment.

Approximately 20 million new cancer cases have occurred worldwide, and dose limitation occurs because of the liver and kidney toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents. Inflammation/apoptosis/ROS pathways appear to be activated in the liver and kidney toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents. This study was conducted to investigate the potential effects of silymarin (SLY) use against docetaxel (DTX)-induced liver and kidney damage in rats. For this purpose, 30mg/kg DTX was administered intraperitoneally to Sprague Dawley rats on the first day of the study, followed by SLY (25 or 50mg/kg/day) orally for 7 days. Then, various analyses were performed on liver and kidney tissues using biochemical, molecular and histological methods. The data obtained showed that DTX administration suppressed antioxidant markers and increased lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney tissues. It was also determined that DTX administration triggered markers of endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy. On the other hand, SLY treatment increased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels and decreased malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, SLY alleviated DTX-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy in liver and kidney tissues. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that DTX increased the density of 8-OHdG positive cells in liver and kidney tissues, while oxidative DNA damage decreased after SLY administration. ALT, AST, ALP, Urea and Creatinine levels increased in the DTX group and decreased in the SLY treatment groups. In conclusion, DTX administration caused toxicity in liver and kidney tissues and damaged tissue integrity, while SLY treatment alleviated DTX-induced toxicity.

A Comparative Study of Nanoconjugates of a Synthetic and a Natural Drug Against T2DM-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction.

Type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is one of the risk factors for the development of dementia leading to cognitive dysfunctions. The present study evaluates the efficacy of a synthetic drug (Vildagliptin, VLD) and a natural glycosidic compound (Hesperidin, HSP) against T2DM-induced cognitive dysfunction in rats. The drugs were conjugated with metal nanoparticles like gold (Au) and selenium (Se) to enhance their efficacy. The synthesis of the monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles of VLD and HSP was established via the turkevich method and characterised by different spectroscopical techniques like UV (Ultraviolet)-visible, FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), zeta potential, particle size, HR-TEM (High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy), SAED (Selected Area Electron Diffraction) and SEM-EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis). Both Streptozotocin (STZ) of 65mg/kg (Group I-X) and Alloxan (ALX) of 150mg/kg (Group I-X) were injected into 120 Wistar rats to induce cognitive dysfunction. After the induction, the BGL levels were evaluated and rats with BGL > 250mg/dl were used in the study. Then the test drug and nanoformulations were administered for 21days. Neurobehavioral assessment, antioxidant studies, and estimation of AChE (acetylcholinesterase) and nitrite levels were done. The VLD and HSP with its nanoconjugates significantly attenuated the effect of STZ and ALX by improving the memory and learning function in Y-maze, radial arm maze (RAM), and elevated plus maze (EPM), increased antioxidant levels of SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), and GSH (glutathione); decreased lipid peroxidation and reduced the AChE and nitrite levels in the rat brain. The bimetallic nanoconjugates of both VLD and HSP were more effective than the monometallic forms of VLD and HSP. However, VLD and its nanoconjugates exhibited better neuroprotective activity than HSP and its nanoconjugates in STZ and ALX animal models. VLD and its nanoformulations were more effective against long-term memory than HSP and its nanoconjugates. Both VLD and HSP may be a potential lead for cognitive and neurodegenerative diseases.

Antioxidant Activity, Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoid Content of 22 Sabah Traditional Rice Varieties

Studies have demonstrated that the traditional rice cultivated in Sabah, East Malaysia, exhibits substantial genetic diversity and is renowned for its outstanding nutritional content. However, there are limited studies to ascertain the antioxidant activity and composition of biochemical substances in it. The present study evaluates the antioxidant properties of 22 Sabah Traditional Rice varieties, which are classified into pigmented and non-pigmented types. An analysis was performed on 22 Sabah Traditional Rice varieties to determine their Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), and DPPH assay. In addition, a metabolic profiling analysis was performed on biochemical substances extracted from a specific rice variety, Beras Perang, which is known for its high levels of TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activity. It was observed that pigmented rice possesses high phenolic content, namely Beras Perang and Baragang Merah (semi-polished), with values ranging from 1.300±0.004 to 1.967±0.019 mg GAE/g. For TFC results, Beras Perang, Masuri Hitam and Tadong Biasa (unpolished) showed higher abundance (1.000±0.001, 0.888±0.001 and 0.793±0.003 mg QE/g), respectively. The antioxidant assay results indicate that three varieties, namely Baragang Merah (92.832± 0.651%), Beras Perang (91.916± 0.331%), and Rongguol (91.965± 0.515%) have antioxidant levels exceeding 90%. Beras Perang has the greatest levels of TPC, TFC, and antioxidants. In metabolic profile analysis, Beras Perang contains a specific form of linoleic acid (12-oxo-10Z-octadecenoic acid) which is not present in the negative control. In conclusion, Sabah Traditional Rice exhibits a highly promising antioxidant activity, over 90%, making it a potential candidate for further development as an alternative superfood.

Developing Countries' Challenges in Cultivating Salt-Tolerant Fodder Peas for Animal Feed

As a result of the rapid increase in the world population, the problem of balanced and adequate nutrition has emerged, and the importance of animal production has increased even more. In this respect, to ensure sufficient and balanced nutrition of existing animals, there is a need to increase the cultivation areas of fodder crops and proper management of pastures and breeding studies. For this reason, fodder pea (Pisum sativum L.), which has high nutritional value and is preferred for animal consumption, is a vital fodder plant to meet this need. Fodder peas are suitable for consumption as animal feed because they contain high levels of carbohydrates and digestible substances. However, salinity, one of the abiotic stress factors, is an essential problem for fodder peas. Salinity significantly limits the development of the plant and leads to yield losses. Although the consequences of climate change vary in many parts of the world, it is predicted that the frequency and severity of conditions such as decreased precipitation, increased temperatures, floods, droughts, and increased saline areas will increase with climate change in developing countries. In addition, salt stress also affects the photosynthetic mechanism in plants and causes changes in chlorophyll, carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant concentrations. Since the reclamation of saline farmland is expensive and complex, it is more appropriate to grow salinity-resistant plants. Therefore, gene studies to improve the salinity tolerance of plants have gained momentum in recent years. In this review, studies conducted in the last 20 years are discussed. Salt tolerance in gene-transferred and non-transferred peas, as well as plant growth in a saline environment, were assessed by comparing proline, chlorophyll, total phenolic, and antioxidant levels. In summary, this study seeks to highlight the issues of drought, aridity, and salinity, all of which are expected to worsen as climate change progresses.

Effect of adenosine triphosphate on methylphenidate-induced oxidative and inflammatory kidney damage in rats

The purpose of this trial was to assess the effects of methylphenidate on the kidney tissues and to investigate the protective effect of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) against possible methylphenidate nephrotoxicity in rats. The rats were separated into; healthy control (HG), methylphenidate (MPHG), ATP (ATPG), and ATP+ methylphenidate (AMPG). The ATPG and AMPG groups were administered ATP 4 mg/kg bw/d, and the HG and MPHG groups received distilled water intraperitoneally. One hour from, ATP and distilled water administration, methylphenidate 10 mg/kg bw/d was applied via oral gavage to the AMPG and MPHG groups once daily for 30 d (1 × 1). Animals were euthanized after 30 d and tissues were collected. The levels of certain oxidant/antioxidant parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were measured. Kidneys were also examined histopathologically. ATP inhibited the increase in oxidant and decrease antioxidant levels induced by methylphenidate. The amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines were increased in methylphenidate-treated kidney tissue compared with the HG and AMPG groups. However, ATP increased oxidative damage markers and cytokines levels close to the healthy group. Serum BUN and creatinine levels increased with methylphenidate but ATP prevented BUN and creatinine from rising in the ATPG and MPHG groups. ATP also reduced the histopathological damage increased by methylphenidate. The potential efficacy of ATP in treating kidney damage induced by methylphenidate use.

Assessment of Opuntia ficus-indica supplementation on enhancing antioxidant levels

Opuntia ficus-indica (OFi) is a major fruit source prevalent in semiarid and arid regions across various countries worldwide. It is widely recognised for its potential health benefits; however, most studies investigating its effects have been limited to pre-clinical models, highlighting the need for further validation through clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of OFi supplementation in enhancing antioxidant levels. Fifty healthy participants, aged 18 years and older, including males and females, received a daily OFi supplement of 1500 mg for 3 months. These findings revealed a significant 48.1% increase in salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (P < 0.001), indicating improved antioxidant activity. Simultaneously, oxidative stress biomarkers showed substantial reductions: malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased by 28.3%, nitrotyrosine (3-NT) decreased by 51.5%, and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) decreased by 59.8% (P < 0.001). Furthermore, participants reported a 20.1% improvement (P < 0.001) in Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), reflecting a notable enhancement in overall well-being. In conclusion, OFi exhibited promising efficacy in elevating antioxidant levels and mitigating oxidative stress. These findings suggest its potential as an adjuvant therapy for managing chronic conditions associated with oxidative stress.

The Effect of Cinnamon-Based Cookies on Blood Glucose and Antioxidant Levels of ST-Induced Diabetic Rats

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a significant public health concern as its global prevalence continues to rise. Non-pharmacological treatments may offer promising results for diabetic patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cinnamon-based cookies on blood glucose and antioxidant levels in diabetic rats. Methods: A randomized block design was used, involving five groups: a non-diabetic group, a positive control group receiving 0.6 mg/kg/day of glibenclamide, a negative control group receiving aqua dest, a group receiving cinnamon extract cookies (0.2 g/kg), and a group receiving powdered cinnamon cookies (0.6 g/kg). A total of 40 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into these groups (n = 8 per group). Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). The intervention lasted for 21 days, during which body weight and blood glucose levels were monitored on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 21. At the end of the intervention, the rats were sacrificed, and blood serum was collected via intracardiac puncture. Body weight was measured using a digital scale, while blood glucose levels were determined using a glucometer. The serum was then analyzed for SOD, MDA, and insulin levels using the ELISA method. Results: The study demonstrated that both types of cinnamon cookies significantly decreased blood glucose levels by day 3, with the cinnamon powder cookies achieving levels comparable to those of non-diabetic rats by day 7. Additionally, both types of cookies significantly improved SOD and insulin levels and reduced MDA levels in the rats. However, the body weight of the diabetic rats was not fully restored. Conclusion: These findings suggest that cinnamon could be utilized in food product development for blood glucose control, with cinnamon powder potentially offering more favorable results. conclusion: These findings suggest that cinnamon could be utilized in food product development for blood glucose control, with cinnamon powder potentially offering more favorable results.

Microalgae as Potential Antioxidants: Assessment of Antioxidant Capacities in Microalgae from Selected Regions of Peninsular Malaysia

Antioxidants play critical roles in cellular defence mechanisms in both enzymatic and non-enzymatic forms within the intracellular and extracellular environments. While microalgae are recognised as a rich source of antioxidants, limited information is available on species native to Peninsular Malaysia that contain high antioxidant capacity for future applications. This study aimed to assess the antioxidant capacity of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in microalgae, particularly those cultivated locally in Malaysia, which are still scarce. Nineteen microalgae species collected from Kedah, Pahang, Terengganu and Johor were used in this study. Algal samples were cultured and harvested during the early stationary phase and then subjected to antioxidant assays. Enzymatic antioxidants were assessed using catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assays. Non-enzymatic antioxidants were evaluated through the quantification of ascorbate, α-tocopherol, and carotenoids. The findings reveal significant interspecies variation of microalgae in the types and quantities of antioxidants. Notably, Neochloris conjuncta and Mychonastes ovahimbae exhibited the highest levels of enzymatic antioxidants (p&lt;0.05) and SOD. Hematoccous sp. had the highest concentration of ascorbic acid, while Chlorella vulgaris from Terengganu contained the most α-tocopherol, both with statistical significance (p&lt;0.05). The data suggest that Chlorella vulgaris from Terengganu possesses considerable potential as a renewable source of antioxidants for diverse industrial applications, including food ingredients.

Synergistic Effects of Cyanus depressus and Schizochytrium sp. Extracts on Growth Indices and The Expression Levels of Antioxidant and Immunity-Related Genes in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

This study aimed to assess the combined effects of Cyanus depressus and Schizochytrium sp. extracts on growth indices and the expression of genes linked to antioxidant activity and immunity in carp (Cyprinus carpio). Fish, averaging 3.71 ± 0.16 g in weight, were assigned to three dietary groups over a 60-day period: a control group (0 g/kg extract) and two test groups receiving extract mixtures at 0.5 g/kg (CS05) and 1 g/kg (CS1). The supplemented groups, particularly those at 0.5 and 1 g/kg, showed significant increases in final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate. The highest superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) gene expression levels were seen in fish on the 0.5 g/kg CS-supplemented diet, and CS-fed groups displayed the greatest expression of the immune-related gene interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) relative to the control. Collectively, these findings indicate that Cyanus depressus and Schizochytrium sp. extracts, especially at a dosage of 0.5 g/kg, have promising potential as dietary supplements for enhancing the physiological health and growth of carp.

A Smartphone‐Integrated Coated Microneedle Sensor for In‐Situ Extraction and Rapid Detection of Total Phenols in Fruits and Vegetables

As interest in monitoring the nutritional and antioxidant levels in fruits and vegetables grows, the need for efficient, non‐invasive detection methods increases. In this work, a novel coated microneedle colorimetric sensing platform is designed to rapidly and sensitively detect total phenolic compounds (TPC) in fruits and vegetables, which is the key indicator of their nutritional and antioxidant properties. The platform utilizes a swollen microneedle structure to efficiently collect juice samples, enhancing detection efficiency through colorimetric analysis and eliminating the complexity of traditional methods. The microneedles are fabricated from a composite material consisting of 10,12‐pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA) and methacrylated gelatin (GelMA), with a secondary layer containing α‐cyclodextrin to selectively bind polyphenols, thereby inducing a visible color change for the specific detection of TPC. The colorimetric response is directly correlated with the concentration of TPC, facilitating on‐site analysis. Using phenol as a model molecule, the detection range of the system for phenol is 10‐60 mM, with an LOD of 0.5 mM. Furthermore, a mobile application enables portable detection and analysis, reducing detection time from several hours to just 30 min. This technology offers a promising approach for the rapid, reliable monitoring of phenolic content in fresh produce, with potential applications in food quality control, nutritional analysis, and agricultural monitoring.

Supplementation of Enzymatic Hydrolysate in Low-Fishmeal and Low-Crop Diet Improves Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immunity of Juvenile Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus (Selenka)

As the global demand for aquafeed ingredients continues to rise, sourcing sustainable alternatives is crucial for aquaculture industries. This study aimed to explore the potential of enzymatic hydrolysate as a substitute for traditional fishmeal and soybean meal in diets for juvenile sea cucumbers (Apostichopus japonicus). Three isonitrogenous (15% crude protein) and isolipidic (2.4% crude lipid) diets were formulated: a control diet containing 10% fishmeal and 5% soybean meal and two experimental low-fishmeal (8%) and low-soybean meal (0%) diets, supplemented with either 8% enzymatically hydrolyzed fish stickwater (EFS) or 8% enzymatically hydrolyzed chicken pulp (ECP), designated as Control, EFS, and ECP, respectively. Juvenile sea cucumbers (initial body weight, 0.25 ± 0.01 g) were fed these diets for 84 days to evaluate the effects of ECP and EFS on their growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory responses. The results revealed significantly higher final weights and specific growth rates in both experimental groups than the control (p &lt; 0.05). The proximate chemical compositions of sea cucumber were less affected by the diets (p &gt; 0.05). Compared with the control group, significantly elevated levels of digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and lysozyme, together with lower malondialdehyde levels, were recorded in the experimental groups (p &lt; 0.05). ECP appeared to exhibit greater potency than EFS in enhancing growth performance and antioxidant capacity. Similar trends were observed in the mRNA expression of SOD, CAT, and inflammation-related genes across the groups. In a nutshell, both ECP and EFS supplemented in a low-fishmeal and low-soybean meal diet could effectively promote the growth and health of A. japonicus, with ECP showing a superior effect over EFS. These findings suggest that enzymatic hydrolysate demonstrates potential as a viable alternative to traditional fishmeal and soybean meal in diets for sustainable sea cucumber aquaculture. Further investigations are warranted to reveal its underlying mechanism.

Combined Effects of Arsenic and Bisphenol-A on Locomotor Activity and Oxidative Stress Mediated Neurotoxicity in Mice.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer of plastic that can leach into water from scratched containers when used for an extended period. Arsenic (As) is an environmental toxicant, and people are exposed to both arsenic and BPA through drinking water and through scratched plastic containers used in contaminated areas. However, the combined effects of As and BPA on locomotor performance and neurobehavioral changes are yet to be investigated. Thus, this study was designed to assess the combined effect of As and BPA on locomotor activity and neurotoxicity through a mouse model. The neurobehavioral changes in experimental mice were evaluated using the different maze tests. Mice exposed to As or BPA exhibited higher anxiety-like behavior, decreased locomotor activity, and impaired learning and memory including social interaction compared with control mice. However, As + BPA-exposed mice showed a significantly reduced anxiety-like behavior, improved learning and memory including locomotor activity, and social interaction compared to individual As-exposed mice. Furthermore, mice exposed to As or BPA showed lower levels of antioxidant and cholinesterase enzymes activity, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the brain and higher levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the brain and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the serum compared to control mice. However, combined exposure augmented antioxidant and cholinesterase enzymes activity, Nrf2, HO-1, IL-10 levels in the brain and reduced serum LDH activity and IL-6 in the brain compared to As exposure. Therefore, this study suggests that As and BPA may have antagonistic effects, and BPA could attenuate the As-induced neurobehavioral and biochemical changes in co-exposed mice.

Effects of Pomegranate Seed Oil on Lower Extremity Ischemia-Reperfusion Damage: Insights into Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cell Death

Aim: This study sought to clarify the therapeutic benefits and mechanisms of action of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) in instances of ischemia–reperfusion (IR) damage in the lower extremities. Materials and Methods: The sample size was determined, then 32 rats were randomly allocated to four groups: Control (C), ischemia–reperfusion (IR), low-dose PSO (IR + LD, 0.15 mL/kg), and high-dose PSO (IR + HD, 0.30 mL/kg). The ischemia model in the IR group was established by occluding the infrarenal aorta for 120 min. Prior to reperfusion, PSO was delivered to the IR + LD and IR + HD groups at doses of 0.15 mL/kg and 0.30 mL/kg, respectively, followed by a 120 min reperfusion period. Subsequently, blood and tissue specimens were obtained. Statistical investigation was executed utilizing Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20.0 (SPSS, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results: Biochemical tests revealed significant variations in total antioxidant level (TAS), total oxidant level (TOS), and the oxidative stress index (OSI) across the groups (p &lt; 0.0001). The IR group had elevated TOS and OSI levels, whereas PSO therapy resulted in a reduction in these values (p &lt; 0.05). As opposed to the IR group, TASs were higher in the PSO-treated groups. Histopathological analysis demonstrated muscle fiber degeneration, interstitial edema, and the infiltration of cells associated with inflammation in the IR group, with analogous results noted in the PSO treatment groups. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expressions of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB), cytochrome C (CYT C), and caspase 3 (CASP3) were elevated in the IR group, while PSO treatment diminished these markers and attenuated inflammation and apoptosis (p &lt; 0.05). The findings demonstrate that PSO has a dose-dependent impact on IR injury. Discussion: This research indicates that PSO has significant protective benefits against IR injury in the lower extremities. PSO mitigated tissue damage and maintained mitochondrial integrity by addressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathways. Particularly, high-dose PSO yielded more substantial enhancements in these processes and exhibited outcomes most comparable to the control group in biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical investigations. These findings underscore the potential of PSO as an efficacious natural treatment agent for IR injury. Nevertheless, additional research is required to articulate this definitively.

The Enhanced Growth Performance and Antioxidant Capacity of Juvenile Procambarus clarkii Fed with Microbial Antioxidants

Given the economic significance of Procambarus clarkii in freshwater aquaculture and the lack of microbial antioxidants in Procambarus clarkii diet research, this study aimed to investigate the optimal supplementation level and feeding duration of microbial antioxidants in Procambarus clarkii diets. A series of three experiments were conducted to assess the long-term effects of different MA levels on crayfish and evaluate the palatability of the diets by observing feeding behavior and examining the short-term effects of high levels of MA. Our results indicate that long-term feeding using 1.5% MAs markedly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (T-AOC, T-SOD, and GSH-PX) and decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the hepatopancreas and hemolymph, with the crayfish showing significantly higher survival rates due to better antioxidant capacity after 24 h of air exposure stress. Under the condition of long-term feeding, the appropriate level of addition of MAs that can promote the growth of crayfish is 0.62–0.66%. The feeding behavior results indicate that the lower willingness and food intake of the crayfish in the high MA group may be the main reason affecting their growth. Conversely, short-term feeding using MAs alleviated the adverse effects on growth associated with the reduced palatability of the diet. The results indicate that the inclusion of 1.5% MAs in the diet for a period of 21 d optimized crayfish growth, accompanied by an improvement in antioxidant capacity and survival during transportation. This study demonstrates that diets supplemented with microbial antioxidants (MAs) can improve growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and resistance to air exposure stress in Procambarus clarkii. These results provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of MA supplementation in crayfish aquaculture.

Chemoprotective Effect of Myrrhone against Diethylnitrosamine and Ferric Nitrile Induced Renal Cancer via Alteration of HO-1/Nrf2 and TRL4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

. Following a single dose of intraperitoneal DEN (200 mg/kg) and a twice-weekly administration of Fe-NTA, rats were administered either an oral dose of myrrhone (5, 10, or 15 mg/kg). The body weights and food intake of the rats were monitored at regular intervals, and the levels of renal cancer markers, antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and other parameters were assessed. Additionally, histopathological studies were conducted on the renal tissues, and the mRNA expression of Bax, Bcl-2, HO-1, SOD2, mtDNA, ATP8, PGC-1α, TRL4, and NF-κB was analyzed. . The dosage-dependent administration of myrrhone demonstrated a remarkable suppression of tumor incidence and an improvement in body weight and food intake. Myrrhone markedly decreased the level of ODC, Thymidine [3H] incorporation, and renal parameters such as creatinine, uric acid, BUN, Kim-1, Cysc-C, and LDH. Additionally, myrrhone significantly altered the levels of MDA, GSH, GPx, CAT, and SOD, as well as inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, and inflammatory parameters such as COX-2, PGE2, TGF-β1, NF-κB, and iNOS. Furthermore, myrrhone significantly decreased the histopathological score and improved the condition of histopathology. Finally, myrrhone significantly altered the mRNA expression of Bax, Bcl-2, HO-1, SOD2, mtDNA, ATP8, PGC-1α, TRL4, and NF-κB. : The result clearly showed the chemoprotective effect of myrrhone against diethylnitrosamine and ferric nitrile induced Renal Cancer via alteration of HO-1/Nrf2 and TRL4/NF-κB Signaling pathway.

The Physiological Mechanism of Exogenous Melatonin Regulating Salt Tolerance in Eggplant Seedlings

There is little study on melatonin’s ability to prevent salt damage in eggplants, despite the fact that it is a strong antioxidant in plants that has been found to help mitigate a variety of adverse challenges. In this study, we used “Anhui Eggplant No.8” as the test material and simulated salt stress by irrigating the roots with 150 mmol·L NaCl solution. Subsequently, we treated the eggplants with different concentrations of exogenous melatonin (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 μmol·L) and assessed the plant traits and an array of physiological and biochemical indices following melatonin application to observe the impact of salt stress. Our study results indicate that exogenous melatonin at a concentration of 200 μmol·L can significantly alleviate the inhibition of eggplant photosynthesis under salt stress by increasing the content of chlorophyll in leaves and the activity of antioxidant enzymes. This leads to a notable increase in the levels of non-enzyme antioxidants and osmotic regulatory substances. As a result, the antioxidant capacity of the eggplants is enhanced, the degree of membrane lipid peroxidation is reduced, and the growth of eggplant seedlings under salt stress is effectively promoted, thereby strengthening the salt tolerance of eggplant seedlings. Fluorescence quantitative data analysis indicates that SmCAT4 is indeed a gene that positively regulates salt stress. However, in the SmPPO family, we did not find any genes that respond to salt stress. This research provides a theoretical foundation for improving the yield productivity and quality of eggplants under protected farming by clarifying the physiological mechanism by which melatonin controls the salt tolerance of eggplant seedlings.