Lower Total Antioxidant Capacity Research Articles

High serum levels of reactive nitrogen species and low total antioxidant capacity in patients with resistant hypertension compared to those in age- gender matched healthy controls, controlled hypertension and follow up with propranolol treatment in the extended APPROPRIATE trial

ObjectivesTo perform a comparative analysis of the extended APPROPRIATE trial of measures of reactive nitrogen species and antioxidant capacity in patients having resistant hypertension with controlled hypertension and healthy controls.ResultsMean serum NO2- and NOx levels were significantly lower and mean AOC was significantly higher in patients with controlled hypertension (n = 38) and healthy controls (n = 38) compared to resistant hypertension (RHTN) patients (n = 40) at the pre-intervention stage (p < 0.001). The serum NO2-, NOx and AOC levels of both controlled hypertension and healthy controls were comparable to those of the RHTN patients following treatment with propranolol (n = 18). Considering all samples (n = 114) we noted that there were significant weak and moderate positive correlations between NO2− levels with systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (r = 0.396, p < 0.001 and r = 0.292, p = 0.004) as well as total NOx levels with SBP and DBP (r = 0.636 and r = 0.480 respectively, p < 0.001). Conversely, there was a significant negative correlation between AOC levels with SBP and DBP (r= -0.846 and r = -0.626 respectively, p < 0.001).

Contrasting alterations in brain chemistry in a crustacean intermediate host of two acanthocephalan parasites

The dynamic properties of neural systems throughout life can be hijacked by so-called manipulative parasites. This study investigated changes in the brain chemistry of the amphipod Gammarus fossarum in response to infection with two trophically-transmitted helminth parasites known to induce distinct behavioral alterations: the bird acanthocephalan Polymorphus minutus and the fish acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus tereticollis. We quantified brain antioxidant capacity as a common marker of homeostasis and neuroprotection, and brain total protein, on 72 pools of six brains. We analyzed the concentration of serotonin (5HT), dopamine (DA) and tyramine in 52 pools of six brains, by using ultrafast high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (UHPLC-ECD). Brain total protein concentration scaled hypo-allometrically to dry body weight, and was increased in infected gammarids compared to uninfected ones. The brain of gammarids infected with P. minutus had significantly lower total antioxidant capacity relative to total proteins. Infection with P. tereticollis impacted DA level compared to uninfected ones, and in opposite direction between spring and summer. Brain 5HT level was higher in summer compared to spring independently of infection status, and was decreased by infection after correcting for brain total protein concentration estimated from dry whole-body weight. The potential implication of 5HT/DA balance in parasite manipulation, as a major modulator of the reward-punishment axis, is discussed. Taken together, these findings highlight the need to consider both brain homeostatic and/or structural changes (antioxidant and total protein content) together with neurotransmission balance and flexibility, in studies investigating the impact of parasites on brain and behavior.

The Double-Edged Sword of Total Antioxidant Capacity: Clinical Significance and Personal Experience.

Oxidative stress (OS) could be a condition underlying several human diseases, despite the physiological role of reactive oxygen species (oxidative eustress). Therefore, antioxidant compounds could represent a modulatory mechanism for maintaining a proper redox balance and redox signaling. When antioxidants are insufficient or overwhelmed, OS ensues, causing multiple damages at molecular, tissue, and cellular levels. This study focuses on the role of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as a biomarker to be interpreted according to several clinical scenarios. After a brief description of various assay methods to elucidate terminology and physiopathological roles, we focus on the hormonal influence on TAC in blood plasma and other biological fluids, as different endocrine systems can modulate the antioxidant response. Furthermore, OS characterizes several endocrinopathies through different mechanisms: an inadequate antioxidant response to an increase in reducing equivalents (reductive distress) or a marked consumption of antioxidants (oxidative distress), which leads to low TAC values. An increased TAC could instead represent an adaptive mechanism, suggesting a situation of OS. Hence, the clinical context is fundamental for a correct interpretation of TAC. This review aims to provide the reader with a general overview of oxidative stress in several clinical examples of endocrine relevance, such as metabolic syndrome, non-thyroid illness syndrome, hypopituitarism, and infertility. Finally, the impact of dietary and surgical interventions on TAC in the model of metabolic syndrome is highlighted, along with personal experience.

Dietary and serum antioxidant capacity is inversely associated with patients in osteoarthritis: a case-control study

This study aimed to examine dietary antioxidant and serum antioxidant capacity in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). This case-control study consisted of 47 patients with OA (case group) and 30 healthy subjects (control group). The control and case group were matched age, gender, and body mass index (p > 0.05). A food frequency questionnaire was administered to participants, and dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) was estimated using the ferric reducing antioxidant power method (FRAP). Participants’ serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant capacity (TOC) measurements were performed, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. DTAC of case group was found to be lower than the control group (p < 0.05). The daily consumption of red meat and butter of the individuals in the case group was higher than that of the control group, and their fish consumption, dietary vitamin A and carotene intakes were found to be lower (p < 0.05). In addition, OA patients have TAC and OSI was also found to be significantly higher than in control group (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001). Since low dietary total antioxidant capacity and high serum total oxidant capacity, individuals with OA should pay more attention to their diet to increase serum antioxidant status.

Relation of Total Antioxidant Capacity to Clinical Severity of COVID-19 Infection in Paediatric Patients

Abstract Objectives The pathogenesis of COVID-19 infection is still not well clarified. In this regard oxidative stress and its relation to disease severity is one of the topics that need to be investigated. Aim This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between the oxidant stress and antioxidant system represented by total antioxidant capacity and clinical severity of COVID19 infection in pediatric age group. Methods The current cross-sectional study included 45 patients with COVID 19 PCR-proven infection admitted at the Children’s Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University compared to 45 healthy age and sex matched control group. Detailed medical history, thorough examination and recording of all infection related laboratory parameters were done for each enrolled case. Measurement of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the serum of all studied patients and controls was done by ELISA. Results TAC levels were considerably lower in pediatric patients (median 24u/l, IQR 9-37u/l) compared to healthy individuals (median 90u/l, IQR 77-100u/l, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and the levels were statistically lower in severe cases compared to those with mild disease (p = 0.008). In this regard, 100% of controls showed normal TAC while only 31.1% from cases exhibited normal TAC levels and 68.9% of cases had low TAC levels. There was strong statistical significance between PICU admission and low TAC levels (p = 0.035). Additionally, the TAC showed negative correlation with the initial CRP of patients (r= -0.433, p = 0.003). There was also a significant inverse correlation between TAC and time needed for viral clearance (r=- 0.418, p = 0.004) as well as a significant positive correlation between body mass index z-score and TAC levels (r = 0.423, p value 0.004). Conclusion Total antioxidant capacity could serve as a novel prognostic marker of COVID -19 infection severity in pediatric patients.

The Effect of Total Antioxidant Capacity on Periodontal Diseases among Ionizing Radiation Workers

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of total antioxidant capacity on periodontal diseases among ionizing radiation workers. The relationship between oxidative stress and periodontal health in this specific occupational group was assessed to gain insights into potential antioxidant supplementation needs and strategies to promote periodontal well-being. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted among ionizing radiation workers (CT scan section) and control group participants. Salivary samples were collected from both groups, and total antioxidant capacity was measured using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Clinical periodontal parameters were also assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using T-tests to compare the results between the groups. Results: The study group showed a significantly lower total antioxidant capacity (2.534) compared to the control group (3.806) (p = 0.022). Significant differences were observed in plaque index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment loss between the groups. These findings suggest a potential association between radiation exposure, decreased antioxidant capacity, and periodontal tissue damage. Conclusion: Radiographic workers exposed to ionizing radiation had lower antioxidant capacity and higher rates of periodontal diseases. Maintaining adequate antioxidants is crucial for protecting periodontal tissues. Further research should investigate mechanisms and exposure variations.

Assessment of Total Antioxidant Capacity, 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxy-guanosine, the Genetic Landscape, and Their Associations in BCR::ABL-1-Negative Chronic and Blast Phase Myeloproliferative Neoplasms.

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), namely, polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), are clonal stem cell disorders defined by an excessive production of functionally mature and terminally differentiated myeloid cells. MPNs can transform into secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML/blast phase MPN) and are linked to alterations in the redox balance, i.e., elevated concentrations of reactive oxygen species and markers of oxidative stress (OS), and changes in antioxidant systems. We evaluated OS in 117 chronic phase MPNs and 21 sAML cases versus controls by measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxy-guanosine (8-OHdG) concentrations. TAC was higher in MPNs than controls (p = 0.03), particularly in ET (p = 0.04) and PMF (p = 0.01). MPL W515L-positive MPNs had higher TAC than controls (p = 0.002) and triple-negative MPNs (p = 0.01). PMF patients who had treatment expressed lower TAC than therapy-free subjects (p = 0.03). 8-OHdG concentrations were similar between controls and MPNs, controls and sAML, and MPNs and sAML. We noted associations between TAC and MPNs (OR = 1.82; p = 0.05), i.e., ET (OR = 2.36; p = 0.03) and PMF (OR = 2.11; p = 0.03), but not sAML. 8-OHdG concentrations were not associated with MPNs (OR = 1.73; p = 0.62) or sAML (OR = 1.89; p = 0.49). In conclusion, we detected redox imbalances in MPNs based on disease subtype, driver mutations, and treatment history.

The change of albumen quality during the laying cycle and its potential physiological and molecular basis of laying hens

To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms that impact variability in albumen quality of laying hens from the peak of lay to the late production phase. A 60-week study was conducted on a cohort of 20,000 Hy-Line Brown laying hens from 20 to 80 weeks old. Before commencement at 20 weeks, the 10-week-old hens were acclimatized for ten weeks. This study examined changes in albumen quality, serum, and liver antioxidant capacity, magnum morphology, and expression of albumen-protein-related genes in the magnum. To reduce sampling error, we collected eggs (n=90) from pre-determined cages at every sampling point (5-week intervals), and 8 hens were selected at 10-week intervals for blood and tissue collection. Our findings revealed that age significantly affected most evaluated parameters. Albumen gel properties, including hardness, gumminess, and chewiness, increased significantly with age (P < 0.05). With the increasing of hens' age from 20 to 80 weeks, the albumen proportion of eggs was decreased, but eggshell proportion, yolk proportion, thick albumen proportion, thick to thin ratio, thick albumen solid content, albumen height, Haugh units, and yolk color were increased and then decreased (P < 0.05). Compared to hens aged 20-60 weeks, the hens (70-80 weeks) had significantly reduced total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione levels (GSH) in the liver and lower serum TAC and superoxide dismutase levels (SOD) (P < 0.05). The magnum mucosal folds were highest in 40-60 weeks-old hens, and the luminal diameter increased with age (P < 0.05). In the magnum, the mRNA expression levels for OVA, CPE, and NUP205 increased significantly between 30 and 40 weeks, while FBN1 expression was higher between 30 and 50 weeks (P < 0.05). At 70-80 weeks, the expression of BRCA2 was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05). Albumen height, thick albumen proportion with protein secretion-related genes, enhanced antioxidant function, and luminal diameter correlated positively. However, the thick-to-thin albumen ratio negatively correlated with BRCA2, downregulated in aged laying hens. We used principal component and cluster analysis to deduce albumen quality changes during three phases: 25-35, 40-55, and 60-80 weeks. The decline in albumen quality in aging hens is linked with decreased antioxidant capacity, magnum health, and downregulation of key genes involved in protein synthesis and secretion. These findings emphasize critical albumen quality changes in laying hens and suggest molecular pathways underlying age-related albumen quality alterations.

High-intensity interval training mitigates the progression of periodontitis and improves behavioural aspects in rats.

To investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on periodontitis (PD) progression and behavioural outcomes. Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups: non-trained (NT); non-trained with PD; HIIT with PD; and HIIT. The HIIT protocol, involving daily treadmill sessions, spanned 8 weeks, with PD induced by ligature after the 6th week. Behavioural tests were conducted to assess anxiety and memory. Post euthanasia, we evaluated the systemic inflammatory profile and oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus and amygdala. A morphological evaluation and elemental composition analysis of the mandibular alveolar bone were performed. PD exacerbated alveolar bone level, bone surface damage and alterations in calcium and phosphorus percentages on the bone surface (p < .05), while HIIT attenuated these changes (p < .05). HIIT improved systemic inflammatory markers altered by PD (tumour necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-10, TNF-α/IL-10 and IL-1β/IL-10 ratios, p < .05). PD animals exhibited lower total antioxidant capacity and levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the amygdala and hippocampus, respectively (p < .05). HIIT maintained these parameters at levels similar to those in NT animals. HIIT improved anxiety and memory outcomes altered by PD (p < .05). HIIT attenuates systemic inflammation, anxiety and memory outcomes promoted by PD.

Prevalence of dental caries among coronavirus disease 2019-recovered patients and correlation with salivary total antioxidant capacity in Kalaburagi region of Indian subpopulation.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has vastly affected mankind worldwide, and its long-term effect on oral health needs to be studied. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of dental caries and its correlation with salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in Kalaburagi region of the Indian subpopulation. About 80 subjects (16-55 years) were included in the study based on selection criteria and were divided into two groups (n = 40). Group 1: no history of COVID-19 infection and Group 2: COVID-19-recovered subjects. Each group was subdivided into two subgroups (n = 20) A and B with and without dental caries. Dental caries was assessed using the decay, missing, filled, treatment (DMFT) index by the World Health Organization. About 5 ml of unstimulated saliva samples was collected and centrifuged at 2000 rpm for 10 min, and the supernatants were collected. Salivary TAC was estimated using 2,2'-azino-bis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic] acid assay and observed under spectrophotometer (734 nm). Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality distribution followed by one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test (P < 0.05). COVID-19-recovered subjects showed a higher prevalence of dental caries and lower TAC levels than non-COVID-19 subjects. Higher prevalence of dental caries with lower levels of salivary TAC was found in COVID-19-recovered individuals.

Effects of intratesticular injection of hypertonic mannitol and saline on the quality of donkey sperm, indicators of oxidative stress and testicular tissue pathology

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to examine donkey sperm quality after intratesticular injection of hypertonic mannitol (HM) and saline (HS).MethodsRandomly assigned to five treatment groups were 15 adult male donkeys: (1) Control group (no treatment), (2) Surgery group (surgical castration for testosterone control), (3) NS group (normal saline intratesticular injection), (4) HS group (hypertonic saline), and (5) HM group. We injected 20 mL per testicle. We took 5 mL blood from all donkeys before injection. Castration was performed under general anesthesia 60 days later. Samples included blood and testicular tissue. Total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), movementy features, DNA damage, morphology, viability, and plasma membrane functionality were evaluated. Hormone analyses, histomorphometric studies and oxidative stress indices including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and NADP+/NADPH were evaluated. Apoptosis, pyroptosis-related Bax, Caspase-1, GSDMD, and Bcl-2 expression were also assessed.ResultsIn HS and HM groups, testosterone, epididymal sperm count, motility, viability, and plasma membrane functionality dropped while sperm DNA damage increased. HS and HM groups had significantly lower histomorphometric parameters, TAC, GPx, SOD, GSH, and Bcl-2 gene expression. MDA, NADP+/NADPH, Bax, Caspase-1, and GSDMD gene expression were substantially higher in the HS and HM groups than in the control group.ConclusionsToxic effects of hypertonic saline and mannitol on reproductive parameters were seen following, hence, they might be considered as a good chemical sterilizing treatment in donkeys.

Effects of Parboiling on Chemical Properties, Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacity in Colored Landrace Rice

Parboiling influences chemical compositions in rice grains. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the change in chemical content, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of landrace rice genotypes under parboiling conditions and to identify the genotypes suitable for production of parboiled rice. Landrace rice varieties used in this study consisted of Glam Feang, Glam Tonkeaw, Kawgum, Glam Luem Phua, Medmakham, Deang Sakonnakhon, Sang Yod, Kawniewd-eang, Mali Deang, KDML105 and RD6. Parboiling reduced fiber content, total phenolic content and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging activity in rice grains. Fiber contents were 1.46% in brown rice (unpolished rice) and 1.40% in parboiled rice (24 h of soaking and 48 h of incubation). Total phenolic contents were 205.67 mg/100 g seed in brown rice and 35.34 mg/100 g seed in parboiled rice. Antioxidant capacity (DPPH) reduced from 68.45% in brown rice to 26.23% in parboiled rice. Ash content and protein content were not significantly affected by the parboiling process. Medmakham cv. had the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity in brown rice and parboiled rice. Gum Leamphea cv. and Medmakham cv. were the best genotypes for ash content, protein content, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (DPPH) in brown rice and parboiled rice. Glam Feang cv. had the highest protein contents in brown rice and parboiled rice although it had low total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Cluster analysis further showed variation among genotypes, revealing distinct groupings in brown rice and parboiled rice based on chemical properties, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. This research significantly contributes to a better understanding on how parboiling affects rice compositions and nutritional values. It emphasizes the importance of nuanced comprehension of how different rice varieties respond to parboiling, aiding informed decisions in rice processing and selection to meet specific nutritional needs.

Non-Thyroidal Illness in Chronic Renal Failure: Triiodothyronine Levels and Modulation of Extra-Cellular Superoxide Dismutase (ec-SOD).

Oxidative stress (OS) is implicated in several chronic diseases. Extra-cellular superoxide dismutase (ec-SOD) catalyses the dismutation of superoxide anions with a protective role in endothelial cells. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), OS and thyroid dysfunction (low fT3 syndrome) are frequently present, but their relationship has not yet been investigated. This cohort study evaluated ec-SOD activity in CKD patients during haemodialysis, divided into "acute haemodialytic patients" (AH, 1-3 months of treatment) and "chronic haemodialytic patients" (CH, treated for a longer period). We also evaluated plasmatic total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and its relationships with thyroid hormones. Two basal samples ("basal 1", obtained 3 days after the last dialysis; and "basal 2", obtained 2 days after the last dialysis) were collected. On the same day of basal 2, a sample was collected 5 and 10 min after the standard heparin dose and at the end of the procedure. The ec-SOD values were significantly higher in CH vs. AH in all determinations. Moreover, the same patients had lower TAC values. When the CH patients were divided into two subgroups according to fT3 levels (normal or low), we found significantly lower ec-SOD values in the group with low fT3 in the basal, 5, and 10 min samples. A significant correlation was also observed between fT3 and ec-SOD in the basal 1 samples. These data, confirming OS and low fT3 syndrome in patients with CKD, suggest that low fT3 concentrations can influence ec-SOD activity and could therefore potentially contribute to endothelial oxidative damage in these patients.

Does vitamin C supplementation in milk improve growth and health of diarrheic calves?

The objective of this study was to investigate how supplementing vitamin C (VC) in milk affects growth, starter intake, blood metabolites, and the health of young calves classified into healthy or diarrheic groups. Calves were classified as diarrheic if they experienced diarrhea for at least 3 days from birth to day 7, otherwise, they were classified as healthy (i.e., days with diarrhea < 3). From day 8 of age, a total of 48 Holstein calves were divided into four groups based on a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, with calf health status (healthy or diarrheic) and VC supplementation (VC+ or VC–) to pasteurized milk (0 or 2 g/d; 50% purity) being the main experimental factors. Calves were fed equal amounts of milk until weaning (d 60). Calves continued to be monitored until they reached 74 days of age. Calves in the VC+ group were heavier at weaning (74.3 vs. 72.2 kg; P = 0.04) compared to those calves that did not receive VC. Blood total antioxidant capacity (d 53 and 67) and superoxide dismutase activity (d 53) were greater (P < 0.01) in VC+ vs. VC– calves. Calf health status and VC supplementation interacted (P = 0.03) for blood β-hydroxybutyrate on d 53, with the lowest concentration observed in diarrheic/VC– calves. Calves in the diarrheic group had a lower total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.01) but a greater neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on d 53 and 67 (P < 0.01) than calves in the healthy group. Before weaning (d 53), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was greater, but hemoglobin was lower (P = 0.02) in calves classified into the diarrheic group that did not receive supplemental VC. The number of days medicated for diarrhea treatment was lower in VC+ calves than those in VC– group (1.73 vs. 2.47 days; P = 0.05). Overall, VC supplementation in pasteurized milk improved calf growth and health. Calves that experienced elevated episodes of diarrhea within the first week of life benefited more from supplemental VC than those classified into the healthy group.

Comparison of the protective effects of vanillic and rosmarinic acid on cardiac tissue: Lower limb ischemia-reperfusion model in rats.

Ischemia/reperfusion injury is one of the most challenging postoperative situations in vascular surgery, both in elective procedures with prolonged clamping time and in delayed emergency cases with vascular occlusion. The inflammatory response that develops during ischemia and the oxygen-free radicals that proliferate during reperfusion have detrimental effects on the brain, heart, and kidneys. In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of vanillic and rosmarinic acid in preventing ischemia/reperfusion injury in a lower limb ischemia-reperfusion model in rats. Thirty-two female Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 185-240 g were randomly divided into four groups of eight animals each. Group 1 was designated as the control, Group 2 as ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), Group 3 as ischemia/reperfusion + vanillic acid (I/R + VA), and Group 4 as ischemia/reperfusion + rosmarinic acid (I/R + RA). In all groups except the control, the infrarenal abdominal aorta was clamped, and 60 minutes of ischemia followed by 120 minutes of reperfusion was performed. Vanillic acid was administered intra-abdominally 15 minutes before the start of reperfusion in Group 3, and rosmarinic acid in Group 4. At the end of the reperfusion phase, blood samples and hearts were collected, and the rats were euthanized. Histopathologically, myofibrillar edema, myocytolysis, focal hemorrhages, and infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) in cardiac tissue were examined. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), 8-OH-deoxyguanosine, lactonase, and arylesterase activity were measured in blood samples. Myofibrillar edema was most pronounced in the I/R group and less pronounced in the I/R + VA and I/R + RA groups (p=0.005 and p=0.066, respectively). There was no difference between the ischemia/reperfusion groups regarding myocytolysis, focal hemorrhage, and PMNL infiltration (p>0.99). Among all groups, TOS and OSI were lowest in the control group, while TAC was highest. TAC was similar in the I/R + VA and I/R + RA groups but was significantly higher in these two groups than in the I/R group. The lactonase activity in the I/R + VA group was similar to that in the control group but was significantly higher compared to the I/R and I/R + RA groups. Our study shows that vanillic and rosmarinic acids reduce myofibrillar edema in the heart after lower limb ischemia and increase TAC. However, vanillic acid increases the activity of lactonase, an enzyme known for its antioxidant effect, more than rosmarinic acid.

Oxidative Stress Mediates Epigenetic Modifications and the Expression of miRNAs and Genes Related to Apoptosis in Diabetic Retinopathy Patients.

Knowledge on the underlying mechanisms and molecular targets for managing the ocular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains incomplete. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of irreversible visual disability worldwide. By using ophthalmological and molecular-genetic approaches, we gathered specific information to build a data network for deciphering the crosslink of oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis (AP) processes, as well as to identify potential epigenetic modifications related to noncoding RNAs in the eyes of patients with T2DM. A total of 120 participants were recruited, being classified into two groups: individuals with T2MD (T2MDG, n = 67), divided into a group of individuals with (+DR, n = 49) and without (-DR, n = 18) DR, and a control group (CG, n = 53). Analyses of compiled data reflected significantly higher plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and significantly lower total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the +DR patients compared with the -DR and the CG groups. Furthermore, the plasma caspase-3 (CAS3), highly involved in apoptosis (AP), showed significantly higher values in the +DR group than in the -DR patients. The microRNAs (miR) hsa-miR 10a-5p and hsa-miR 15b-5p, as well as the genes BCL2L2 and TP53 involved in these pathways, were identified in relation to DR clinical changes. Our data suggest an interaction between OS and the above players in DR pathogenesis. Furthermore, potential miRNA-regulated target genes were identified in relation to DR. In this concern, we may raise new diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that hold the potential to significantly improve managing the diabetic eye.

Adverse outcome pathways as a tool for optimization of the biomarker-based assessment of pollutant toxicity: A case study of cadmium in the blue mussels Mytilus edulis

Technogenic metals like cadmium (Cd) are discharged into the environment posing significant ecological risks to wildlife and contributing to a decline in biodiversity. Recent developments in toxicity testing and environmental risk assessment have shifted the focus towards prioritizing biological effects. To ensure effective environmental risk assessment, it is essential to develop sensitive sub-organismal biomarkers correlated with ecologically relevant organismal-level responses. Our study proposes a novel approach to enhance the evaluation of biomarker-based toxicity based on adverse outcome pathways (AOP) concept. We exposed the blue mussels M. edulis to Cd concentrations ranging from 200 to 600 µg l−1 (10–30 % of LC50) for 14 days, and assessed a comprehensive panel of 26 biomarkers related to molecular initiation events (Cd uptake and binding), key cellular events (oxidative stress, metabolic disturbances, and cytotoxicity), and adverse organismal outcomes (survival, energy metabolism, and reef-building capacity) in the putative AOP of Cd. Tissue Cd burdens increased linearly with exposure concentrations in the mussels. Although the condition index of the mussels remained unaffected, their biofiltration activity was suppressed at the highest Cd concentration. The negative effects of Cd exposure on the mussels' feeding were linked to reduced energetic scope for growth, impaired byssus production, increased hemocyte mortality, and altered functional traits of hemocytes. Additionally, Cd exposure induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by lower total antioxidant capacity and thiol pool, along with increased lipid peroxidation, leading to enhanced autophagy. Through Random Forest Analysis, we identified a minimal set of sensitive Cd effect biomarkers, including hemocyte mortality (contributing ∼0.32 to classification accuracy), hemocyte acid phosphatase activity, nitric oxide and metallothionein levels in the digestive gland, and whole-organism clearance rate and scope for growth (each contributing ∼0.02–0.08 to classification accuracy). These biomarkers collectively achieved a high accuracy of 90–100 % in distinguishing between control and Cd-exposed groups. Increasing the number of biomarkers did not improve classification accuracy. These findings suggest that using a smaller number of optimized biomarkers based on Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOP) can enhance the assessment of contaminant-induced negative effects while reducing testing costs in environmental risk assessments.

Relative importance of phenotypic plasticity and carryover effects in response to small salinity shifts during oyster aquaculture production

Variability of water conditions in coastal environments could affect oyster aquaculture production through three main environmental-tolerance mechanisms: phenotypic plasticity, within-generation carryover effects, and selective mortality. Aquaculture production of eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica, larvae occurs on weekly timescales in Virginia, with variations in salinity experienced by subsequent larval cohorts. The present study examined the relative importance of within-generation carryover effects – phenotypic changes during a previous life stage that impact a later stage – and phenotypic plasticity in shaping the performance of juvenile oysters after an experience of small differences in salinity (< 2 salinity units) during the larval stage. Genetic diversity was also assessed to rule out large shifts in allele frequencies, or loss of diversity, that would suggest observed effects were the result of selective mortality rather than carryover effects or phenotypic plasticity. Larval oysters were reared through settlement and metamorphosis under two salinities (thirteen and fifteen) that represent small differences between consecutive spawns in a hatchery. Juveniles were then raised in situ in two Virginia tributaries of the lower Chesapeake Bay, the York and Rappahannock rivers. Oyster production occurs within these two tributaries under distinct salinity conditions, with the Rappahannock tending to be of lower salinity. Metrics of survival, growth, oxidative stress, and condition index were compared to assess phenotypic plasticity and within-generation carryover effects. Juvenile oyster survival and physiology correlated with in situ environmental conditions rather than previous larval salinity experience. Specifically, juvenile oysters raised in the Rappahannock River had greater survival (13%), shell length (14%), condition index (38%), and dry tissue weight (78%) than those raised in the York River, regardless of larval salinity. Rappahannock River oysters also had 20% lower total antioxidant capacity than York River oysters. Genetic diversity remained high with no large shifts in allelic frequencies that would suggest non-random loss of alleles attributable to selection. Our results suggest that small salinity differences experienced in shellfish hatcheries 48 h after fertilization likely do not impact juvenile oyster performance during grow-out; rather, phenotypic plasticity likely underpins juvenile oyster performance during the transition from hatchery to farms. The importance of phenotypic plasticity presents another reason why farm site selection is critical to the performance and success of aquaculture product. Future studies are needed to further identify whether larval responses to salinity conditions are dependent on additional environmentally relevant conditions like temperature or the timing of exposure post-fertilization to better understand the relative importance of phenotypic plasticity, within-generation carryover effects, and selective mortality within oyster aquaculture.

Liver Oxidative Status, Serum Lipids Levels after Bariatric Surgery and High-Fat, High-Sugar Diet in Animal Model of Induced Obesity.

Nutritional status is a major determinant of hepatocyte injuries associated with changed metabolism and oxidative stress. This study aimed to determine the relations between oxidative stress, bariatric surgery, and a high-fat/high-sugar (HFS) diet in a diet-induced obesity rat model. Male rats were maintained on a control diet (CD) or high-fat/high-sugar diet (HFS) inducing obesity. After 8 weeks, the animals underwent SHAM (n = 14) or DJOS (n = 14) surgery and the diet was either changed or unchanged. Eight weeks after the surgeries, the activity of superoxide dismutase isoforms (total SOD, MnSOD, and CuZnSOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and lutathione S-transferase, as well as the thiol groups (-SH) concentration, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS) levels, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration liver tissue were assessed. The total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations were measured in the serum. The total SOD and GPX activities were higher in the SHAM-operated rats than in the DJOS-operated rats. The MnSOD activity was higher in the HFS/HFS than the CD/CD groups. Higher CuZnSOD, GST, GR activities, -SH, and MDA concentrations in the liver, and the triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations in the serum were observed in the SHAM-operated rats than in the DJOS-operated rats. The CAT activity was significantly higher in the HFS-fed rats. Lower TAC and higher TOS values were observed in the SHAM-operated rats. Unhealthy habits after bariatric surgery may be responsible for treatment failure and establishing an obesity condition with increased oxidative stress.

Total Antioxidant Capacity, Lipid Peroxidation, and Erythrocyte Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Subjects with Obesity: A Case-Control Study

Introduction: Considering that the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically in recent years, one of the key targets of public health is obesity and its associated pathological conditions. Recent evidence suggests that oxidative stress (OS) may be the mechanistic link between obesity and the development of metabolic and vascular diseases related to obesity. In this study, it was hypothesized that obesity would be associated with lipid peroxidation (LP) and antioxidant enzyme activities in erythrocytes. Methods: In this case-control study, 80 subjects with obesity and 80 age- and gender-matched subjects with normal weight were selected from the health centers affiliated with Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Iran. General information was gathered from each participant using questionnaires. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), as well as, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase (CAT) activities underwent assessment. Results: The study sample consisted of 160 obese adults (42.5% males and 57.5% females, with a mean age of 41.0±7.6 years). Serum MDA levels (P=0.016) and erythrocyte SOD activity (P=0.013) were significantly higher in subjects with obesity compared to non-obese controls. Moreover, subjects with obesity had significantly lower serum TAC (P=0.008) in comparison to the controls. There were no significant differences in erythrocyte GPX and CAT activities between subjects with obesity and non-obese controls. Significant positive correlations were observed between body mass index (BMI) and serum MDA levels (r=-0.461, P&lt;0.001) and erythrocyte SOD activity (r=-0.442, P=0.002). Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation was found between BMI and serum TAC levels (r=-0.426, P=0.008). Conclusion: The present findings provide further evidence suggesting that obesity leads to substantial LP and OS, which, in turn, may contribute to the development of obesity-related diseases.