Superoxide Dismutase mRNA Levels Research Articles

Effects of allicin supplementation on the growth performance, biochemical composition and immune responses of ivory shell (Babylonia areolata)

In the present study, the effects of different levels of allicin supplementation (0.00 % as control, 0.30 %, 0.45 %, 0.60 %, 0.75 %, and 0.90 %) on the growth performance, biochemical composition and immune capacity of ivory shells (Babylonia areolata) were investigated. Allicin supplementation in the daily diet significantly enhanced growth performance, with the highest specific growth rates observed at concentrations ranging from 0.75 % to 0.90 % (2.18–2.20 %/d), and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.39) recorded at 0.60 %. Correspondingly, mRNA expression levels of two appetite-related genes, Orexin and Neuropeptide Y (NPY), in the hepatopancreas significantly increased, while the expression of the appetite-suppressing gene Leptin significantly decreased with increasing allicin supplementation. The amounts of almost all detected fatty acids significantly increased when ivory shells were fed diets supplemented with allicin, while their profiles varied, showing increases in C20:1n9 and C22:6n3 (DHA), and decreases in C16:0, C18:2n6, and C20:4n6 (ARA). Lipase activities in both the intestine and hepatopancreas significantly increased in the allicin-supplemented groups, with peak values observed at 0.90 % and 0.75 % allicin supplementation, respectively (3.64 U/g prot in the intestine and 9.52 U/g prot in the hepatopancreas). Allicin supplementation improved the antioxidant and antimicrobial abilities of ivory shells, leading to increased activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lysozyme in the hepatopancreas, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Similar trends were observed in mRNA levels of SOD, CAT and lysozyme genes. In conclusion, moderate allicin supplementation in artificial diets (approximately 0.75 %-0.90 %) can significantly enhance growth performance, increase muscle lipid content, and boost immune capabilities of ivory shells.

Croton grewioides essential oil and anethole reduce oxidative stress and improve growth of bovine primordial follicles during culture of ovarian tissue.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of Croton grewioides essential oil (CGEO) and anethole on follicle survival, growth, and oxidative stress in cultured bovine ovarian tissues. Ovarian tissues were cultured for 6 days in a medium supplemented with different concentrations (1, 10, 100, or 1000 µg mL-1) of CGEO or anethole and then, follicular survival and growth, collagen content, and stromal cell density in ovarian tissues cultured in vitro were evaluated by histology. The mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), peroxirredoxin 6 (PRDX6), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) were evaluated by real-time PCR. The activity of SOD, CAT, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiol concentrations were investigated. Ovarian tissues cultured with 1 µg mL-1 CGEO or anethole had a higher percentage of healthy follicles than those cultured in a control medium (P < .05). The 1 µg mL-1 CGEO also increased the number of stromal cells, collagen fibers, and thiol levels. Anethole (1 µg mL-1) increased CAT activity and reduced that of GPx. The activity of SOD was reduced by CGEO. In contrast, 1 µg mL-1 anethole reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX1, and NRF2 (P < .05). In addition, 1 µg mL-1 CGEO reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX6, and GPx1 (P < .05). The presence of 1 µg mL-1 anethole or CGEO in a culture medium promotes follicle survival and regulates oxidative stress and the expression of mRNA and activity of antioxidant enzymes in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.

Dietary supplementation of ornithine improved the growth, immune response and acute NH3 stress tolerance of Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei

Ornithine is an arginine family amino acid and is not incorporated into protein. This study evaluated its role in growth, immune response and acute NH3 stress tolerance of Penaeus vannamei. Six diets with graded levels (0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5, 1.8, 2.1 g kg−1) of L-ornithine were formulated, and fed the shrimp for 8 weeks. The growth of shrimp was significantly improved with the dietary ornithine levels increased from 0.6 to 1.5 g kg−1. Feed efficiency, protein efficiency ratio and protein productive value showed a similar trend to the growth performance of shrimp. Whole body protein and muscle lipid of shrimp were significantly increased in shrimp fed 1.8 g kg−1 ornithine compared to those fed 0.6 g kg−1 ornithine. The contents of several amino acids were increased with the dietary ornithine increased to 1.5 g kg−1. Elevated levels of ornithine increased the Nitric Oxide (NO) content and suppressed arginase activity in the hemolymph. The relative mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase, heat shock protein 70, dorsal and caspase 3 were increased with the dietary addition of ornithine, while the mRNA level of arginase was decreased with the increasing dietary ornithine levels. After 9 h acute NH3 stress, mortality of shrimp reduced with the increasing dietary ornithine levels. The relative mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase, heat shock protein 70, dorsal and catalase were increased with the dietary addition of ornithine after the acute NH3 stress. The second-order regression analysis of weight gain and survival after acute stress revealed that the suitable ornithine content in the shrimp diet was 1.4–1.5 g kg−1.

Effects of gossypin on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

Liver injury from paracetamol (acetaminophen) (APAP) is common worldwide. To prevent intoxication with a drug with high poisoning, treatment can be made possible with an easily accessible and harmless substance. This study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective ef-fects of Gossypin (GOS) in mice exposed to an overdose of APAP -the possible mechanism of action. Specifically, serum [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and hepatic biochemical parameters (glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and super-oxide dismutase (SOD)] were evaluated. Protein and mRNA levels of inflammatory, apoptot-ic, and cytochrome factors, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, and CYP2E1, were ana-lyzed using real-time PCR. Pretreatment with GOS significantly reduced APAP-induced he-patic injury via oxidative stress. Along with potent antioxidant activity, GOS promoted APAP hepatic detoxification by regulating AST, ALT, GSH, MDA, and SOD activities and mRNA levels of the cytochrome CYP2E1 gene. The anti-inflammatory activity of GOS in-creases its production. TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, through possible NF-kB blockade, are also responsible for its hepatoprotective effect. Taken together, GOS has the potential to be devel-oped as a preventive agent to be administered to patients suffering from APAP overdose.

Effects of Hypoxia Stress on Survival, Antioxidant and Anaerobic Metabolic Enzymes, and Related Gene Expression of Red Swamp Crayfish Procambarus clarkii.

The red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii is the most reared shrimp in China, but it is often affected by hypoxia stress in the process of seedling culture and adult crayfish culture. The oxygen consumption rate and asphyxiation point of juvenile crayfish (1.17 ± 0.03 g) and subadult crayfish (11.68 ± 0.11 g) at different temperatures (20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 °C) were studied. The survival, glycolysis, and expression of antioxidant genes were compared under 24 h acute hypoxia stress (1, 2, and 3 mg/L) and normal dissolved oxygen (7.5 mg/L). The results showed that the oxygen consumption rate and asphyxiation point of juvenile and subadult crayfish increased with increasing temperatures (20-28 °C). At the same temperature, the oxygen consumption rate and asphyxiation point of juvenile crayfish were significantly higher than those of subadult crayfish (p < 0.05). Within 24 h, the three hypoxia stress environments did not lead to the death of crayfish, indicating that P. clarkii has a strong ability to adapt to hypoxia. Hypoxia stress significantly affected the activities of antioxidant and anaerobic metabolic enzymes and gene expression in juvenile and subadult crayfish. The activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the content of lactic acid (LD) in the hepatopancreas of juvenile and subadult crayfish in the hypoxia stress groups increased significantly. The expression levels of SOD mRNA, CAT mRNA, Hsp70 mRNA, and crustin 4 mRNA in the hepatopancreas of juvenile and subadult crayfish in the hypoxia stress groups were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.05), and the higher the degree of hypoxia stress, the higher the expression of each gene. The results showed that the antioxidant system of juvenile crayfish was more sensitive to hypoxia environments, and hypoxia stress resulted in increased stress levels in juvenile crayfish and subadult crayfish.

Effects of Starvation and Refeeding on Glucose Metabolism and Immune Responses in Macrobrachium rosenbergii.

Starvation is a common challenge for aquatic animals in both natural and cultured environments. To investigate the effects of starvation and refeeding on glucose metabolism and immunity in Macrobrachium rosenbergii, prawns were starved for 14days and then refed for 7days. Results showed that both glucose and trehalose levels decreased significantly at the beginning of starvation, followed by a significant decrease in glycogen content in the hepatopancreas and muscle. Triglyceride and total protein reserves were also mobilized under starvation, with a slightly quicker response from triglycerides. The mRNA levels of glycolysis (glucokinase) and anabolism-related enzymes (glycogen branching enzyme, diacylglycerol acyltransferase, and transpeptidase) decreased during starvation, while gluconeogenic potential was induced, as indicated by up-regulated transcriptional levels of gluconeogenic enzymes (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase) and catabolism-related enzymes (glycogen debranching enzyme, adipose triglyceride lipase, and cathepsin B). Starvation also stimulated the expression of the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone and inhibited insulin-like peptide expression, indicating their potential role in glucose metabolism regulation. In addition, starvation increased the mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase and prophenoloxidase, indicating an influence on the immune system. After bacterial infection, starved prawns showed enhanced activity of non-specific immunological parameters and reduced mortality. Refeeding for 7days led to a recovery of physiological and biochemical indices and transcriptional levels of metabolism/immune-related genes. Our findings provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying energy utilization, metabolic adaptation, and immune response to starvation in M. rosenbergii.

Water hyacinth derived biochar for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons removal and oxidative stress study

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), highly concerned emerging contaminant, are priority persistent organic pollutants (POPs) adversely affect the ecological health of marine sediments. These pollutants have attracted widespread attention because of their potential toxicological effects on aquatic organisms and subsequent threats to human health. In this study, an advanced oxidation process for the remediation of PAH-contaminated sediments was developed by the activation of calcium peroxide (CaO2; CP) using a green catalyst prepared from water hyacinth biochar (WHBC), and the associated biochar-driven cellular oxidative stress was highlighted. The catalytic capacity of WHBC was determined at pyrolysis temperature between 300 and 900 °C. WHBC prepared 700 °C (WHBC700) and CP removed 74% of PAHs from the sediment matrix. Results of antioxidant activity evaluation after exposure to WHBC at doses between 400–4000 and 1000–4000 mg L−1 in human hepatocarcinoma cell lines (HepG2) for 24 h showed enhanced glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities, respectively. Increase in mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) genes was also observed after WHBC exposure (400–4000 mg L−1), implying that the oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) was inhibited by elevating the cellular antioxidant activity. This study attempted to demonstrate an effective waste-to-resource strategy for remediating PAH-polluted sediment in addition to understanding the potential environmental effects of antioxidant activity and gene expression of carbon-based catalysts on HepG2.

Dietary valine affects growth performance, intestinal immune and antioxidant capacity in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study investigated the effect of dietary valine on growth, whole-body composition, plasma parameters, and intestinal genes expression related to TLR-MyD88-NF-κB signaling pathways of the largemouth bass. An 8-week feeding trial was designed to evaluate the effects of dietary valine levels on the growth performance, intestinal immunity, and antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass. Graded valine levels were used to produce six practical diets: 1.77% (control), 2.02%, 2.26%, 2.49%, 2.71%, and 2.94%. The findings demonstrated that, up to a dietary valine level of 2.26%, the weight gain rate, final body weight, condition factor, and specific growth rate all increased and thereafter declined (P < 0.05). The feed conversion ratio had the opposite trend but with no significant difference (P > 0.05). Dietary valine had no significant effects on HSI (hepatosomatic index), VSI (visceral adipose index) or the whole-body composition of largemouth bass (P > 0.05). The 2.26% dietary valine level significantly increased intestinal antioxidant factor activity, including the activities of CAT (catalase) and SOD (superoxide dismutase) (P < 0.05). The fish fed 2.94% dietary valine had the highest level of GSH (glutathione) (P > 0.05) and the highest activity of GPx (glutathione peroxidase) (P < 0.05). The 2.71% dietary valine level significantly reduced the MDA (malondialdehyde) content compared with that of the control group (P < 0.05). The 2.26% dietary valine level dramatically reduced the mRNA levels of IL-8 (interleukin-8), TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α), IL-1β (interleukin 1β), NF-κB p65 (nuclear factor kappa B p65), IL-10(interleukin 10), keap1 (kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1), C3 (caspase 3), MyD88 (myeloid differentiation factor 88), TLR2 (Toll-like receptor 2), CAT, and GPx and increased the mRNA level of SOD in the largemouth bass intestine when compared to levels in the control group (P < 0.05). The Nrf2 (nuclear factor 2-related factor) mRNA level was also increased but was not significantly different (P > 0.05). The mRNA levels of TGF-β (transforming growth factor β) did not change significantly (P > 0.05). In conclusion, according to the FCR (feed conversion ratio)- and SGR (specific growth rate)- based quadratic regression analyses, the optimum requirements for valine are 2.43% (5.01% of dietary protein) and 2.37% (4.95% of dietary protein), and 2.26% dietary valine help to improve the immune and antioxidant capacity of the intestine in largemouth bass.

Adenovirus-mediated SIRT1 protects cochlear strial marginal cells in a D-gal-induced senescent model in vitro.

A primary obstacle in age-related hearing loss (ARHL) study is the lack of accelerated senescent models in vitro that explore the precise underlying mechanism in different types of ARHL. The damage to strial marginal cells (SMCs) is a subset of strial presbycusis-associated pathological changes. We aimed to establish a D-galactose (D-gal)-induced SMCs senescent model and study the effect of deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) on presbycusis in vitro. SMCs from C57BL/6J neonatal mice were cultured and treated with D-gal to establish accelerated senescent models. And then D-gal-induced SMCs were transfected with adenovirus (Ad)-SIRT1-GFP or Ad-GFP. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage were determined by histological analysis or RT-PCR. Western blotting (WB) and RT-PCR were used to evaluate protein and mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and SIRT1, respectively. Additionally, apoptosis was investigated by WB and TUNEL staining. D-gal-induced SMCs exhibited several characteristics of senescence, including increased the level of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, which is a marker of DNA oxidative damage, and elevated the amount of mtDNA 3860-bp deletion, which is a common type of mtDNA damage in the auditory system of mice. SIRT1 overexpression effectively inhibited these changes by upregulating the level of SOD2, thereby inhibiting cytochrome c translocation from mitochondria to cytoplasm, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and ultimately delaying aging in the D-gal-induced senescent SMCs. Altogether, the evidence suggests that the D-gal-induced SMCs accelerated aging model is successfully established, and SIRT1 overexpression protects SMCs against oxidative stress by enhancing SOD2 expression in ARHL.

Effects of Aloe vera extract on growth, viability, ultrastructure and expression of mRNA for antioxidant enzymes in bovine secondary follicles cultured in vitro

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Aloe vera extract on follicular growth, viability, ultrastructure, and mRNA levels for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) and peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) in bovine secondary follicles cultured in vitro. To this end, secondary follicles were mechanically isolated from the ovarian cortex and cultured at 38.5 °C, with 5% CO2 in air, for 18 days in TCM-199+ alone or supplemented with 2.5%, 5.0%, 10.0% and 20.0% Aloe vera extract. Follicular growth, morphology and antrum formation were evaluated every 6 days, while ultrastructure was evaluated at the end of culture. Analysis of viability was performed by calcein-AM and ethidium homodimer-1, while mRNA levels for SOD, CAT, GPX1 and PRDX6 were evaluated by real-time PCR at the end of culture. The results show that follicles cultured with 2.5% Aloe vera had increased the rate of antrum formation, while 2.5% and 5.0% Aloe vera improved follicular viability rate. Follicles cultured with 2.5% and 10.0% Aloe vera increased the levels of mRNA for SOD and GPX1 respectively, but the levels of CAT were reduced in follicles cultured with 2.5%, 5.0%, 10.0% and 20.0%. Additionally, follicles cultured with 2.5% of Aloe vera had their ultrastructure well preserved, while those cultured with 5.0%, 10.0% and 20.0% exhibited increased oocyte vacuolization and damaged organelles. In conclusion, 2.5% Aloe vera increases antrum formation, viability and expression of mRNA for SOD in cultured secondary follicles, but higher concentrations of Aloe vera have negative effects on follicular ultrastructure.

Quercetin and lycopene co-administration prevents oxidative damage induced by d-galactose in mice

Quercetin and lycopene are strong dietary antioxidants that often co-exist in foods. Here, the cardiac and neuroprotective effects of quercetin and lycopene combination were analyzed in d-galactose-induced oxidative stress in mice. ICR mice were divided into control group, d-galactose group (D-GAL), quercetin treatment (Q45: 45 mg kg−1 d−1quercetin, Q60: 60 mg kg−1 d−1 quercetin), lycopene treatment (15 mg kg−1 d−1 lycopene), and M groups (45 mg kg−1 d−1quercetin+15 mg kg−1 d−1 lycopene). Mice were given quercetin, lycopene, and their combination through oral gavage for 6 weeks. They were injected with d-galactose (150 mg kg−1 d−1) simultaneously except for the control group. Results showed that the quercetin-lycopene combination could ameliorate histopathological injuries in the heart and hippocampus. They significantly decreased the serum and heart malonaldehyde (MDA) levels, heart 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) levels, and increased the activity of serum and heart superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the hippocampal SOD and CAT mRNA level. Quercetin-lycopene combination exhibited anti-inflammation effects by reducing inflammatory genes such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The heart and hippocampal mRNA level of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression was up-regulated, and the antioxidant genes related to Nrf2 including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H Quinone Dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) were elevated. Quercetin-lycopene combination significantly promoted the mRNA level of deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), increased 3.3-fold and 3-fold SIRT1 expression in the heart and hippocampus, respectively. They could bind SIRT1 at the active site predicted by molecular docking. These results suggested that they may interact with SIRT1 to activate Nrf2, inhibit pro-inflammatory factors, and prevent oxidative stress in D-GAL-induced mice.

Growth Performance, Immune-Related and Antioxidant Genes Expression, and Gut Bacterial Abundance of Pacific White Leg Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, Dietary Supplemented With Natural Astaxanthin.

The current study examines the effect of dietary supplementation of ethanolic extract of Arthrospira platensis NIOF17/003, which is mainly natural astaxanthins (97.50%), on the growth performance, feed utilization, bacterial abundance, and immune-related and antioxidant gene expressions of the Pacific white leg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. A total of 360 healthy L. vannamei postlarvae (0.19 ± 0.003 g) were divided into four groups (0, 2, 4, and 6 g natural astaxanthins/kg diet) each in three replicates, at an initial density of 30 PLs per tank (40 L capacity). The shrimp were fed the tested diets three times a day at a rate of 10% of their total body weight for 90 days. Diets supplemented with different astaxanthin levels significantly improved shrimp growth performance and feed conversion ratio compared to the control diet. No significant differences were observed in survival rates among all experimental groups. The immune-related genes (prophenoloxidase, lysozyme, beta-glucan binding protein, transglutaminase, and crustin) mRNA levels were significantly upregulated in groups fed with different concentrations of the natural astaxanthins in a dose-dependent manner. The prophenoloxidase gene is the highest immune-upregulated gene (14.71-fold change) in response to astaxanthin supplementation. The superoxide dismutase mRNA level was significantly increased with increasing dietary astaxanthin supplementation. In addition, increasing astaxanthin supplementation levels significantly reduced the count of heterotrophic bacteria and Vibrio spp. in the culture water and shrimp intestine. Overall, the current results concluded that diet supplementation with natural astaxanthin, extracted from Arthrospira platensis, enhanced the growth performance, immune response, and antioxidant status of L. vannamei.

Effect of a Plateau Environment on the Oxidation State of the Heart and Liver through AMPK/p38 MAPK/Nrf2-ARE Signaling Pathways in Tibetan and DLY Pigs.

Simple SummaryPlateau stress is a main factor limiting pig production. There are great differences in oxidation state and antioxidant defense between Tibetan pigs (TPs) and DLY pigs exposed to a plateau environment. However, there are limited reports on the mechanism of adaptation of TPs and DLY pigs to the plateau environment involving a signal pathway related to oxidation state. In the present study, we found that TPs exhibit a stronger heart and liver antioxidant stress capacity than DLY pigs through AMPK/p38 MAPK/Nrf2-ARE signaling pathways under a plateau hypoxic environment.This study evaluated the effect of a plateau environment on the heart and liver oxidation state of Tibetan pigs (TPs) and DLY pigs through analyzing AMPK, p38 MAPK, and Nrf2 signaling pathways. Twelve 120-day-old TPs and twelve 120-day-old DLY pigs were randomly divided into two groups in a plateau environment for three weeks. Exposed to a plateau environment, TPs exhibited a lower (p < 0.05) malondialdehyde level but higher (p < 0.05) glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activities in the liver and heart than those observed in DLY pigs. TPs also showed higher (p < 0.05) mRNA levels of SOD and GSH-Px in the liver and heart compared with those of DLY pigs. The TPs showed higher (p < 0.05) mRNA and protein levels of AMPK and Nrf2 in the liver and heart compared with those of DLY pigs. Furthermore, TPs showed higher (p < 0.05) mRNA and protein levels of p38 MAPK in the heart and higher mRNA levels of p38 MAPK in the liver compared with those of DLY pigs under a plateau environment. In summary, TPs possess a stronger antioxidant capacity in the heart and liver than that of DLY pigs in a plateau environment through AMPK/p38 MAPK/Nrf2-ARE signaling pathways.

An assessment of the rescue action of resveratrol in parkin loss of function-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster

Loss-of-function mutations in parkin is associated with onset of juvenile Parkinson’s disease (PD). Resveratrol is a polyphenolic stilbene with neuroprotective activity. Here, we evaluated the rescue action of resveratrol in parkin mutant D. melanogaster. The control flies (w1118) received diet-containing 2% ethanol (vehicle), while the PD flies received diets-containing resveratrol (15, 30 and 60 mg/kg diet) for 21 days to assess survival rate. Consequently, similar treatments were carried out for 10 days to evaluate locomotor activity, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers. We also determined mRNA levels of Superoxide dismutase 1 (Sod1, an antioxidant gene) and ple, which encodes tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting step in dopamine synthesis. Our data showed that resveratrol improved survival rate and climbing activity of PD flies compared to untreated PD flies. Additionally, resveratrol protected against decreased activities of acetylcholinesterase and catalase and levels of non-protein thiols and total thiols displayed by PD flies. Moreover, resveratrol mitigated against parkin mutant-induced accumulations of hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde. Resveratrol attenuated downregulation of ple and Sod1 and reduction in mitochondrial fluorescence intensity displayed by PD flies. Overall, resveratrol alleviated oxidative stress and locomotor deficit associated with parkin loss-of-function mutation and therefore might be useful for the management of PD.

Effects of Dietary Bacillus velezensis LSG2-5 on Growth, Immunity, Antioxidant Capacity, and Disease Resistance of Amur minnow (Rhynchocypris lagowskii Dybowski)

The study was aimed at investigating the effects of Bacillus velezensis LSG2-5 isolated from host’s intestinal tract on growth performance, immune response, antioxidant capacity, and disease resistance of Amur minnow (Rhynchocypris lagowskii Dybowski). 535 fish were divided into 5 groups with 3 replicates per group. Diets containing different doses (0, 106, 107, 108, and 109 CFU/g, respectively) of B. velezensis LSG2-5 were used to feed fish ( 9.95 ± 0.05 g) for 56 days. Results showed that compared with control, weight gain rate and specific growth rate of fish were significantly increased by dietary 107-109 CFU/g B. velezensis ( p &lt; .05 ). While for the feed conversion ratio, all treatment groups were significantly decreased ( p &lt; .05 ). In serum, the contents of lysozyme and immunoglobulin M were significantly increased by dietary 106-109 CFU/g B. velezensis ( p &lt; .05 ); the activities of component 3, component 4, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased by dietary 108 CFU/g B. velezensis ( p &lt; .05 ). The activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase in hepatopancreas were significantly increased by dietary 108-109 CFU/g B. velezensis ( p &lt; .05 ). The activities of catalase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase in the intestinal tract of 108 CFU/g group were significantly increased ( p &lt; .05 ). However, malondialdehyde levels in the hepatopancreas and intestines were significantly decreased by dietary 107-108 CFU/g B. velezensis ( p &lt; .05 ). Dietary 107-109 CFU/g B. velezensis significantly upregulated catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and copper/zinc superoxide dismutase mRNA levels ( p &lt; .05 ). The levels of transforming growth factor β and interleukin-10 mRNA in the hepatopancreas of fish fed with B. velezensis of 108 CFU/g were significantly increased ( p &lt; .05 ), and these in the intestinal tract of 106-109 CFU/g groups were upregulated ( p &lt; .05 ). Feeding dietary 107-108 CFU/g B. velezensis significantly downregulated interleukin-8, interleukin-1β, and tumour necrosis factor α mRNA levels in hepatopancreas and intestines ( p &lt; .05 ). After 56 days of feeding, 225 fish ( 23.20 ± 0.59 g) were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila (108 CFU/g), and survival rates were recorded for the next 14 days. Meanwhile, the serum immune parameters of fish were determined. Results showed that compared with control, the survival rates of the treatment groups were significantly increased ( p &lt; .05 ). Lysozyme, component 3, component 4, immunoglobulin M, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase levels in serum by dietary106-109 CFU/g B. velezensis showed significant promoting effects ( p &lt; .05 ). In conclusion, dietary 107-109 CFU/g B. velezensis boosts the growth, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and against A. hydrophila infection of Amur minnow. Regression analysis suggested that the optimal dose of B. velezensis LSG2-5 in the Amur minnow diet was 5.00 × 10 8 CFU/g.

A study of the potential effect of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) substitution for fish meal on growth, immune and antioxidant capacity in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of fish meal (FM) with yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor, TM) on the growth performance, food utilization and intestinal immune response of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Seven diets containing increasing levels of TM (FM substitution) were designed (approximately 0% (0%), 4% (11.1%), 8.1% (22.2%), 12.2% (33.3%), 16.3% (44.4%), 20.4% (55.5%), and 24.5% (66.6%), designated TM0, TM11, TM22, TM33, TM44, TM55, and TM66, respectively). 420 fish were randomly selected and placed in 21 cages (1 m*1 m*1 m, 7 treatments for triplicate, 20 fish per cage). Fish (initial weight 6.25 ± 0.03 g) were fed seven isonitrogenous (47%) and isocaloric (19 MJ kg−1) diets to satiety twice daily for 8 weeks. Compared to the control group (TM0), TM11 showed no significant difference in the weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR) or feed conversion ratio (FCR), while all other TM inclusion groups presented different degrees of decline. There was no significant difference in the whole-body composition among all groups (P > 0.05). Plasma total protein (TP), triglyceride (TG) and albumin (ALB) contents were significantly decreased in TM55 and TM66 (P < 0.05). The highest plasma aspartate transaminase (AST) activity was observed in TM66 (P < 0.05). TM33, TM44 and TM55 showed the lowest activities of plasma alanine amiotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P < 0.05). Moreover, increased mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured in the TM11 to TM55 groups, while intestinal SOD activity peaked in TM11 (P < 0.05). With the exception of TM11, the other TM inclusion groups showed significant inhibition of the relative expression of RelA, C3 and TNF-α (P < 0.05). All experimental groups exhibited lower expression of IL-10 than TM0 (P < 0.05). The TM11 group showed significantly upregulated expression of IL-1β and TGF-β (P < 0.05). In addition, TLR2 expression was increased in TM11 and TM22 (P < 0.05). Considering enzyme activities and immune-related gene expression, TM supplementation levels should not exceed 4% (TM11).

Dietary ferulic acid supplementation improves intestinal antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function in weaned piglets

This study was conducted to explore the effects of dietary ferulic acid (FA) supplementation on intestinal antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function in weaned piglets. Eighteen 21-day-old castrated male DLY (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) weaned piglets were randomly divided into control, 0.05% FA, and 0.45% FA groups, respectively. The experiment lasted for 5 weeks. The results showed that dietary 0.05 and 0.45% FA supplementation significantly increased catalase activity (p < 0.001), the protein levels of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (p < 0.05), and the mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase 1, glutathione reductase and Nrf2 (p < 0.05) in jejunum when compared with the control group. Dietary 0.05% FA supplementation also increased the mRNA level of glutathione S-transferase (p < 0.05) in jejunum. Meanwhile, Dietary 0.05 and 0.45% FA supplementation significantly increased the protein expression of zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) (p < 0.05), and dietary supplementation of 0.05% FA increased the mRNA levels of ZO-1, zonula occludens 2, mucin 1, mucin 2, occluding, and claudin-1 (p < 0.05) in jejunum. Together, our data suggest that dietary 0.05% FA supplementation improves the intestinal antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function of weaned piglets.

Genotoxicity and behavioral alterations induced by retene in adult zebrafish

Retene (1-methyl-7-isopropylphenanthrene; RET), a non-priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), is one of the most widely produced PAHs following cellulose burning. Despite RET toxicity observed in various aquatic organisms, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the genotoxic and neurotoxic effects of RET were investigated using zebrafish as experimental model. Adult zebrafish were exposed to 250, 500, 750, and 1000 µg/L RET for 96 h. RET increased micronuclei frequency, demonstrating its genotoxic potential. After RET exposure, adult zebrafish exhibited alterations in locomotion and exploration endpoints. RET also increased the levels of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the zebrafish brains, indicating an imbalance in the redox status. Moreover, in its initial concentration, the mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (sod1 and sod2), glutathione-disulfide reductase (gsr), glutathione peroxidase 1 A (gpx1a) were up-regulated; however, in the two highest RET concentrations, the transcriptional level of nuclear factor erythroid 2 like 2 (nfe2l2) was down-regulated, leading to the reduction of mRNA levels of all the antioxidant defense genes investigated. Furthermore, RET decreased the mRNA levels of genes encoding components of the cholinergic, serotoninergic, and gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter systems. Taken together, these results demonstrate that RET affects DNA generating micronuclei and provide new evidence suggesting that the behavioral alterations in zebrafish could be due to changes in oxidative stress and the mRNA expression of the neurotransmitter systems. These results reinforce the risk posed by environmental pollutants to aquatic ecosystems, especially those whose toxic potentials remain underestimated.

Shape effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles on mild traumatic brain injury

The catalytic performance and therapeutic effect of nanoparticles varies with shape. Here, we investigated and compared the therapeutic outcomes of ceria nanospheres (Ceria NSs) and ceria nanorods (Ceria NRs) in an in vivo study of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). In vivo TBI was induced in a mouse model of open head injury using a stereotaxic impactor. Outcomes including cytoprotective effects, cognitive function, and cerebral edema were investigated after retro-orbital injection of 11.6 mM of ceria nanoparticles. Ceria nanoparticles significantly reduced fluoro-jade B (FJB)-positive cells and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells, and restored mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and SOD2. They also decreased the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression compared with the untreated control group. Comparing the two nanomaterials, Ceria NRs showed less stable and high-energy (100) and (110) planes, which increased the number of active sites. The Ce3+/Ce4+ molar ratio of Ceria NRs (0.40) was greater than that of Ceria NSs (0.27). Ceria NRs (0.059 ± 0.021) appeared to exhibit better anti-inflammatory effect than Ceria NSs (0.133 ± 0.024), but the effect was statistically insignificant (p = 0.190). Ceria nanoparticles also improved cognitive impairment following mTBI compared with the control group, but the effect did not differ significantly according to the nanoshape. However, Ceria NRs (70.1 ± 0.5%) significantly decreased brain water content compared with Ceria NSs (73.7 ± 0.4%; p = 0.0015), indicating a more effective reduction in brain edema (p = 0.0015). Compared with Ceria NSs, the Ceria NRs are more effective in alleviating cerebral edema following in vivo mTBI.

γ-Linolenic Acid Prevents Lipid Metabolism Disorder in Palmitic Acid-Treated Alpha Mouse Liver-12 Cells by Balancing Autophagy and Apoptosis via the LKB1-AMPK-mTOR Pathway.

Excessive fat deposition is the main character in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), while γ-linolenic acid (GLA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that can reduce lipid deposition. This study investigated the effect and regulatory mechanism of GLA (100 μM) on lipid metabolism in alpha mouse liver 12 (AML-12) cells treated by 400 μM palmitic acid (PA). GLA reduced lipid content and increased fatty acid β oxidation, as indicated by decreasing triglyceride and cholesterol contents and increasing mRNA and protein expressions of CPT1α and PPARα. GLA relieved oxidative stress caused by PA, upregulated mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and decreased reactive oxygen species content. GLA reduced apoptosis, as indicated by decreases in the BAX/BCL2 expression level and apoptosis percentage. GLA activated autophagy, autophagosome-lysosome fusion, and LKB1-AMPK-mTOR signaling and upregulated mRNA and protein expressions of Beclin-1, autophagy-related 5, and liver kinase B1 (LKB1). These effects of GLA on lipid metabolism disorders of PA-treated hepatocytes were reversed by autophagy inhibitor 3MA and AMPK inhibitor compound C, confirming our conclusions. Overall, GLA can protect AML-12 cells from lipid metabolism disorder caused by PA via balancing autophagy and apoptosis mediated by the LKB1-AMPK-mTOR pathway. Consequently, GLA, as a dietary supplement, can help to prevent and treat NAFLD by regulating lipid metabolism and autophagy.