Oxidative Enzyme Activity Research Articles

Assessing the effects of cadmium on antioxidant enzymes and histological structures in rainbow trout liver and kidney

Cadmium contamination in aquatic environments poses severe risks to aquatic organisms, particularly fish, where cadmium accumulation in tissues can lead to compromised organ functionality and reproductive issues. The present study aimed to assess the effects of cadmium (Cd) exposure on key biomarkers of oxidative stress, DNA damage, apoptosis, and enzyme activity in the liver and kidney tissues of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Specifically, the study measured 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels, caspase-3 activation, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and oxidative stress indicators (ONOO−, MDA, GSH, SOD, and CAT) following exposure to three Cd concentrations (1, 3, and 5 mg/L) over three time points (24, 48, and 96 h). Tissue samples were collected post-exposure, and the analysis revealed a significant decrease in MDA levels in both tissues. GSH concentrations declined with prolonged exposure, while SOD activity increased, indicating a response to oxidative stress, contrasted by a reduction in CAT activity. An initial increase in ONOO− levels was observed at 24 h, followed by a subsequent decrease at the 48 and 96 h marks. These results suggest that cadmium induces oxidative stress in the liver and kidney tissues of fish. Cadmium exposure also significantly elevated 8-OHdG levels, signaling DNA damage, and increased caspase-3 activity, indicative of apoptosis, across all doses and time points (p < 0.05). The histological examination of liver and kidney showed tissue injury. Additionally, a negative correlation between AChE activity and exposure duration was noted, with prolonged exposure resulting in substantial AChE inhibition. Given the role of AChE in behavior regulation, these findings underscore the importance of exploring time-dependent, tissue-specific changes in AChE activity to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying cadmium-induced behavioral abnormalities.

Impact of iron sulfate (FeSO4) foliar application on growth, metabolites and antioxidative defense of Luffa cylindrica (Sponge gourd) under salt stress

Salt stress is becoming a major issue for the world’s environment and agriculture economy. Different iron [Fe] sources can give an environmentally friendly alternative for salt-affected soil remediation. In this study the effects of Iron sulfate on Luffa cylindrica (Sponge gourd) cultivated in normal and saline water irrigated soil were examined. When FeSO4 (0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1 ppm) were applied to salt affected soil, the length, fresh and dry biomass of sponge gourd plant roots and shoots inclined by an average of 33, 28, 11, 21, 18 and 22%, respectively. In plants irrigated with saline water, leaf count was raised successively (23–115%) with increasing concentration of FeSO4 (0.025-0.1 ppm) compared to stress only plants. The use of FeSO4 boosted sponge gourd growth characteristics in both normal and salt-affected soils compared to respective controls. The application of Iron sulfate under salt stress boosted photosynthetic indices such as chlorophyll a (22%), chlorophyll b (34%), carotenoids (16%), and total chlorophyll levels (22%). Iron sulfate application also exhibited incline in primary (total free amino acids, 50%; total soluble proteins, 46%) and secondary (total phenolics, 9%; flavonoid content, 51%) metabolites in salt-affected soils. Oxidative enzymatic activities such as catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and DPPH scavenging activity (36%) were also increased by foliar spray of FeSO4 in control and salt stressed L. cylindrica plants. FeSO4 had a considerable impact on the growth and development of Luffa cylindrica in normal and salt-affected soils. It is concluded that FeSO4 application can effectively remediate salt affected soil and improve the production of crop plants.

The Impact of Vitamin E Supplementation on Oxidative Stress, Cognitive Functions, and Aging‐Related Gene Expression in Aged Mice

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the effects of different doses of vitamin E on oxidative stress, cognitive function, and gene expression in aged mice. A total of 32 male mice, aged 12 months, were divided into a control group and three treatment groups. These groups received varying daily doses of vitamin E for a period of 28 days. The results showed significant improvements in cognitive function, specifically in working memory and spatial learning, in the groups that received vitamin E (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) compared to the control group. The markers of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities also demonstrated improvements, with higher doses of vitamin E showing greater effects. The analysis of gene expression revealed increased expression of SIRT1, Nrf2, and Calstabin2, particularly at higher doses of vitamin E. These findings suggest that vitamin E supplementation may help counteract age‐related cellular changes. The study concludes that vitamin E supplementation can reduce oxidative stress, enhance cognitive function, and affect genetic markers of aging in mice, which may have therapeutic benefits in addressing age‐related cognitive decline and oxidative damage. Further research is necessary to investigate the clinical implications of these findings in humans.

Growth performance, immunological, and biochemical responses of stinging catfish, (Heteropneustes fossilis) fingerlings reared in a biofloc-based production system

ABSTRACT A study was conducted to compare the high-density rearing of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis) fingerlings in both a control system and a biofloc system over 100 days. In the biofloc system, probiotics and a carbon source were added, while the control group had no additions. The biofloc system showed significantly (p < .05) higher floc volume (8.34 ± 1.33 ml L−1) and improvements in growth performance, survival rate, and biomass yield. Fingerlings reared in the biofloc system had increased digestive, oxidative enzyme activities and a lower feed conversion ratio. No changes were observed in the whole-body proximate composition between the groups. However, nonspecific immune responses, such as lysozyme and myeloperoxidase, were relatively improved, and other immune parameters like respiratory burst activity and total serum immunoglobulin were significantly increased in the biofloc system. In conclusion, biofloc-based rearing significantly enhanced the growth performance, feed utilization, and immunological conditions of stinging catfish.

Exploring the synergistic benefits of biochar and gibberellic acid in alleviating cadmium toxicity

Cadmium (Cd) toxicity significantly threatens agricultural productivity and food safety. Developing effective strategies to enhance plant tolerance to Cd stress is essential. This study investigates the synergistic effects of biochar (BC) and gibberellic acid (GA3) on mitigating Cd toxicity in maize (Zea mays), focusing on their impact on oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities. Soil samples were collected from the Cholistan Institute of Desert Studies (CIDS) and analyzed for trace metal ions and other properties. Biochar was produced from fruit and vegetable waste, washed, washed, deashed, and mixed with 10 ppm GA3. FH-1036 hybrid maize seeds were sterilized and planted in pots containing soil with varying Cd levels (0, 8, and 16 mg Cd/kg soil). Twelve treatments were established, including control, GA3, BC, and their combinations under different Cd stress levels. Plants were irrigated to maintain 60% field capacity and harvested at the V10 growth stage. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were measured in roots, stems, and leaves. Statistical analysis was performed using OriginPro 2021, with ANOVA and Fisher’s LSD test used to determine significant differences. GA3 and BC treatments significantly reduced H2O2 levels in maize roots, stems and leaves under Cd stress. The combined treatment of GA3 + BC showed the most significant reduction in H2O2 levels across all plant parts, reducing root H2O2 by 50%, stem H2O2 by 55%, and leaf H2O2 by 53% under severe Cd stress (16 mg Cd/kg). SOD activity increased under non-stress conditions but decreased under Cd stress, with the highest activity observed in the combined treatment. POD activity followed a similar pattern, with GA3 + BC treatment resulting in the most significant increases under non-stress conditions and the least reductions under Cd stress. CAT activity showed substantial increases with GA3 + BC treatment, particularly under severe Cd stress, with a notable rise over the control. APX activity also exhibited enhancements with GA3 and BC treatments, especially in the combined treatment under various Cd stress levels. This study highlights the potential of combined BC and GA3 treatments in improving Cd stress tolerance in maize. Future research should focus on field trials and the long-term impacts of these treatments on crop productivity and soil health.

β-carotene protects against α-amanitin nephrotoxicity via modulation of oxidative, autophagic, nitric oxide signaling, and polyol pathways in rat kidneys

Alpha-amanitin (α-AMA), a toxic component of Amanita phalloides, causes severe hepato- and nephrotoxicity. This study investigated the protective effects of βeta-carotene (βC) against α-AMA-induced kidney damage in rats. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: Control, βC (50 mg/kg/day), α-AMA (3 mg/kg), and βC+α-AMA. βC was administered orally for 7 days before α-AMA injection. Renal function, oxidative stress markers, histopathological changes, and enzyme activities were evaluated 48 h post-α-AMA administration. α-AMA significantly increased serum creatinine and urea levels, decreased glutathione and catalase activity, and increased malondialdehyde levels (P < 0.001). βC pretreatment attenuated these changes (P < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed reduced tubular degeneration in the βC+α-AMA group (P < 0.001). Immunohistochemical analysis showed increased LC3B and Beclin-1 expression in α-AMA-treated rats, indicating enhanced autophagy, partially reversed by βC. Additionally, α-AMA reduced nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and increased aldose reductase (AR) activity, both normalized by βC pretreatment (P < 0.01). βC demonstrates protective effects against α-AMA-induced nephrotoxicity through antioxidant action, modulation of autophagy, and regulation of NOS and AR pathways, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent in α-AMA poisoning.

Effects of Vitamin C on Aluminum Chloride- Induced Neurotoxicity on the Hippocampal Cortex of Adult Wistar Male Rats

This study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of Vitamin C on aluminum chloride (AlCl₃)- induced brain damage, focusing on behavioral, biochemical, and histomorphological outcomes in a rodent model. Study Design: A total of 42 healthy male rats were randomly assigned to three groups: control, AlCl₃ -only, and AlCl₃ plus Vitamin C (500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg). The AlCl₃ groups received daily doses of AlCl₃, while the Vitamin C groups received concurrent Vitamin C supplementation. Methodology: Body weight, behavioral changes, biochemical markers of oxidative stress (MDA, SOD, GSH), and inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6) were assessed. Histomorphological analysis of the hippocampus was performed to evaluate structural damage. Behavioral assessments included locomotor and exploratory activity tests. Biochemical analyses measured oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities. Results: AlCl₃ administration resulted in significant body weight loss, increased oxidative stress (elevated MDA, and SOD levels), and heightened inflammation (elevated TNF-α and IL-6). Behavioral tests showed increased excitatory activities, and increased anxiety levels as seen in increased rearing and grooming activities. Histomorphological examination revealed significant hippocampal damages as seen in the pale staining, shrunken pyramidal cells. Vitamin C co- administration mitigated these adverse effects, demonstrating reduced body weight loss, lower oxidative stress, decreased inflammation, and improved behavioral performance. Histological analysis indicated less hippocampal damage in the Vitamin C treated groups. Conclusion: As an antioxidant, Vitamin C effectively attenuates the neurotoxic effects of AlCl₃ by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and by protecting the hippocampal cellular integrity. These findings suggest that Vitamin C holds potential as a therapeutic agent for mitigating neurotoxicity induced by aluminum compounds.

Single and combined effects of phenanthrene and cadmium on oxidative stress and detoxification related biomarkers in clams (Meretrix meretrix)

Biomarkers concerning antioxidant reactions and detoxification metabolics were evaluated in Meretrix meretrix exposed to cadmium (Cd, 10 μg/L) and phenanthrene (PHE, 100 μg/L) individually and in combination (10 μg/L Cd + 100 μg/L PHE) for 7 days. The accumulation of Cd and PHE measured in the digestive gland, gill, mantle, and axe foot of the clam showed significant increase in combination treatment and it was higher than the single Cd or single PHE treatment. The activities of oxidative stress-related enzymes, the expression of Cu/Zn SOD, and the content of MDA increased after Cd and PHE exposure in the digestive gland and gill at most cases. In the digestive gland, CAT gene expression was significantly induced in Cd-single group and significantly inhibited in PHE-single group and Cd-PHE mixed group at both day 3 and day 7; in the gill, CAT gene expression was significantly inhibited in all groups at day 3 and except for Cd-single group at day 7. MT expression was significantly induced in Cd-single and Cd-PHE mixed groups at day 7, while hsp70 expression was significantly inhibited in PHE-single and Cd-PHE mixed groups at day 7. The results indicated that SOD, CAT, GST, MDA, Cu/Zn SOD, CAT, MT and hsp70 were sensitive to cadmium and PHE in a water environment, and can be used as indicators of marine heavy metal pollution.

Parental environment as a factor shaping salinity tolerance in halophyte Tripolium pannonicum L.

Parental environment can significantly influence a range of plant traits across different growth phases and developmental stages. The impact of parental salinity variability on offspring germination and environmental factor response still requires thorough investigation. Therefore, we investigated seeds of Tripolium pannonicum L. from low-saline (Cie) and high-saline (Ino) habitats to elucidate the germination potential and adaptation potential of progeny to varying salinity levels. Germination and growth experiments were conducted to analyze germination parameters, plant areas, water-related traits, the concentration of organic solutes, malondialdehyde, and the activity of crucial oxidative defence enzymes. In the germination experiment, Cie seeds demonstrated higher germination potential with longer germination time under 200–400 mM NaCl compare with Ino seeds. The Cie population achieved the highest shoot and roots area at 100 mM and 300 mM NaCl, respectively. The Ino population exhibited its highest shoot and roots area at 200 mM NaCl. The Ino population indicated an increase in stem cortex cell area at 400 mM NaCl. The Ino population enhanced the synthesis of osmolytes as part of the salinity tolerance mechanism. Antioxidant enzyme analysis indicated higher peroxidase activity in Ino and higher superoxide dismutase activity in Cie under salinity, suggesting distinct enzymatic roles in salinity adaptation between populations. Our findings highlight the critical role of parental environmental conditions in shaping progeny traits, enhancing germination potential, and enabling adaptation of progeny plants to diverse environmental niches. The study underscores population-specific responses to environmental factor, emphasizing the complexity of halophyte adaptation mechanisms to salinity.

مقارنة محتوى فيتامين C في بعض عينات الفواكه الطازجة والمجمدة

The concentrations of Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, in eleven different types of fresh and frozen fruits were determined by titration method. The effects of some conditions such as time of freezing on the Vitamin C contents were studied. Samples were collected from farms close to Janzour overall seasons. Each sample or a part of it was squeezed to get juice and centrifuged; the volume and the weight of the supernatant liquid were taken. The estimation of vitamin C concentrations were done for fresh samples, after 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours and frozen samples after 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks. From obtained results, the concentrations of vitamin C were decreased with increasing time of experiments for fresh and frozen samples with statistically significant deference. The highest concentration was found in blood oranges and lowest concentration noticed with apple for fresh and frozen samples. Meanwhile, the concentration of vitamin C was higher in frozen sample than fresh sample without significant differences. In conclusion, the freezing method for limited time (month for example) is the best way to maintain the concentration of vitamin C because it works to inhibit the activity of oxidative enzymes and break down the vitamin C. Keywords: Vitamin C, Frozen fruits; Fresh fruits; titrimetric method; L-ascorbic acid

Modulation of the Cardiovascular Risk in Type 1 Diabetic Rats by Endurance Training in Combination with the Prebiotic Xylooligosaccharide.

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is a major etiological factor in heart failure in diabetic patients, characterized by mitochondrial oxidative metabolism dysfunction, myocardial fibrosis, and marked glycogen elevation. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of endurance training and prebiotic xylooligosaccharide (XOS) on the activity of key oxidative enzymes, myocardial collagen, and glycogen distribution as well as some serum biochemical risk markers in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats (n = 36) were divided into four diabetic groups (n = 9): sedentary diabetic rats on a normal diet (SDN), trained diabetic rats on a normal diet (TDN), trained diabetic rats on a normal diet with an XOS supplement (TD-XOS), and sedentary diabetic rats with an XOS supplement (SD-XOS). The results show that aerobic training managed to increase the enzyme activity of respiratory Complex I and II and the lactate dehydrogenase in the cardiomyocytes of the diabetic rats. Furthermore, the combination of exercise and XOS significantly decreased the collagen and glycogen content. No significant effects on blood pressure, heart rate or markers of inflammation were detected. These results demonstrate the beneficial effects of exercise, alone or in combination with XOS, on the cardiac mitochondrial enzymology and histopathology of diabetic rats.

Differential effects of melatonin on adipose tissues under normoestrogenic and estrogen-deficient conditions in rats

In post-menopause, oxidative stress due to the decline of natural antioxidants increases the susceptibility to metabolic syndromes (MetS). Estrogen and melatonin (MEL) share antioxidant properties; however, few studies have reported the impact of estrogen deficiency and MEL treatment on morphology, redox status, and antioxidant defense capacity of diverse adipose tissue (AT) subtypes. To investigate this issue, MEL was administered to ovariectomized (OVX) rats and sham-operated rats for 16 weeks (10 mg/kg). The adipocyte morphology, oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant enzyme activity were evaluated in the visceral retroperitoneal adipose tissue (rVAT), subcutaneous inguinal adipose tissue (iSAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT). In OVX rats, MEL treatment suppressed rVAT hypertrophy and increased the prevalence of small adipocytes in iSAT, suggesting a better lipid distribution among ATs. MEL treatment increased glutathione reductase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in iSAT; therefore, restored the glutathione level. In rVAT, MEL increased glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activity. MEL minimized the risks for the development of metabolic abnormalities due to estrogen deficiency. However, under normoestrogenic condition, MEL decreased plasma estradiol levels and uterine mass, raising the concerning of its effect on reproductive functions.

Relationship between Oxidative Stress and Cellular Adenosine Triphosphate Levels

Oxidative stress (OS) refers to the deterioration of the balance between oxidants and antioxidants in favor of oxidants, and this may lead to disruptions in redox signaling and control and/or damage at the molecular level. The presence of low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a physiological role in intracellular signaling pathways. However, damage may occur in cells and tissues as a result of excessive increase in ROS production. Because ROS have the potential to damage almost all structures in the cell, including lipid, protein, deoxyribo nucleicacid (DNA). The main source of free radicals in the cell is mitochondria. ROS formation is a natural consequence of oxidative phosphorylation resulting in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in mitochondria. The attack of these radicals results in damage to the mitochondria, a decrease in the activity of oxidative phosphorylation enzymes and consequently a decrease in ATP synthesis. On the other hand, ATP is needed for antioxidant synthesis, which is necessary for cell defence against increasing ROS. Therefore, a decrease in ATP levels makes tissues vulnerable to OS. In this case, it is likely that tissues exposed to OS will also have problems in ATP production and the decrease in ATP synthesis will further increase oxidative damage.

Enhanced Tomato Seed Germination and Seedling Growth Through Oxidative Stress Using Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were successfully biosynthesized from Larrea tridentata leaf extract. X-ray Dif fraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed that AgNP are crystalline and hemispherical, with sizes between 4 and 26 nm. In addition, the ef fect of nanoparticles on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) seed germination and seedling growth was examined. Seeds were pre-soaked with dif ferent concentrations of AgNP (0, 4.03, 6.72, 18.66, 51.84, and 86.4 mg L-1). Up to 90% seed germination was achieved at a concentration of at least 4.03 mg L-1, while the control reached below 60%. The highest vigor was obtained at a concentration of 51.84 mg L-1, 2.67 times higher than the vigor of untreated seeds. The synthesized nanoparticles induced activation of tomato seedlings’ defense system against reactive oxidative species, increasing CAT and APX enzyme activities and seedling’s growth. Plumule and radicle length rose 1.49 and 1.98-fold compared to the control. The seedlings were susceptible at 86.4 mg L-1 of AgNP, which af fected all growth parameters and induced oxidative stress response through increased hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) formation and proline content. These provide further insight into the ef fects of biogenic silver nanoparticles on plants during their initial stages of development, demonstrating that these nanoparticles can promote early germination.

The effects of submicron particles of metal oxides on the production of hydrogen peroxide and the activity of oxidative enzymes of &lt;i&gt;Aspergillus niger&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Penicillium chrysogenum&lt;/i&gt;

The submicron particles effect of heavy metal oxides WO3, CsTeMoO6 и RbTe1.5W0.5O6 with photocatalytic activity on the content of hydrogen peroxide and the activity of extracellular oxidoreductases (catalase, peroxidase) in the cultivation medium of the Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum fungi was studied. Addition of the studied compounds to the cultivation medium reduced the H2O2 content for both fungi. An ambiguous effect of the studied compounds on the activity of extracellular catalase and peroxidase was noted. In most cases, these compounds caused an increase in the activity of the studied enzymes both under light and in the dark. A significant decrease in activity was shown only for exocatalases of both fungi under the influence of WO3 and under the influence of CsTeMoO6 in P. chrysogenum.

Nutrient strengthening and lead alleviation in Brassica Napus L. by foliar ZnO and TiO2-NPs modulating antioxidant system, improving photosynthetic efficiency and reducing lead uptake

With the anticipated foliar application of nanoparticles (NPs) as a potential strategy to improve crop production and ameliorate heavy metal toxicity, it is crucial to evaluate the role of NPs in improving the nutrient content of plants under Lead (Pb) stress for achieving higher agriculture productivity to ensure food security. Herein, Brassica napus L. grown under Pb contaminated soil (300 mg/kg) was sprayed with different rates (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L) of TiO2 and ZnO-NPs. The plants were evaluated for growth attributes, photosynthetic pigments, leaf exchange attributes, oxidant and antioxidant enzyme activities. The results revealed that 100 mg/L NPs foliar application significantly augmented plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, and leaf gas exchange attributes. Furthermore, 100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs application showed a maximum increase in SPAD values (79.1%, 68.9%). NPs foliar application (100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs) also substantially reduced malondialdehyde (44.3%, 38.3%), hydrogen peroxide (59.9%, 53.1%), electrolyte leakage (74.8%, 68.3%), and increased peroxidase (93.8%, 89.1%), catalase (91.3%, 84.1%), superoxide dismutase (81.8%, 73.5%) and ascorbate peroxidase (78.5%, 73.7%) thereby reducing Pb accumulation. NPs foliar application (100 mg/L) significantly reduced root Pb (45.7%, 42.3%) and shoot Pb (84.1%, 76.7%) concentration in TiO2 and ZnO-NPs respectively, as compared to control. Importantly, macro and micronutrient analysis showed that foliar application 100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs increased shoot zinc (58.4%, 78.7%) iron (79.3%, 89.9%), manganese (62.8%, 68.6%), magnesium (72.1%, 93.7%), calcium (58.2%, 69.9%) and potassium (81.5%, 68.6%) when compared to control without NPs. The same trend was observed for root nutrient concentration. In conclusion, we found that the TiO2 and ZnO-NPs have the greatest efficiency at 100 mg/L concentration to alleviate Pb induced toxicity on growth, photosynthesis, and nutrient content of Brassica napus L. NPs foliar application is a promising strategy to ensure sustainable agriculture and food safety under metal contamination.

Impacts of Combining Steinernema carpocapsae and Bracon hebetor Parasitism on Galleria mellonella Larvae.

The greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, is a significant pest in apiculture and a well-established model organism for immunological and ecotoxicological studies. This investigation explores the individual and combined effects of the ectoparasite Bracon hebetor (B.h.) and the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae (S.c.) on G. mellonella larvae. We evaluated the activity of oxidative stress enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, cytochrome P450 activity, cell viability using Annexin V-FITC, DNA damage via comet assay, and larval morphology through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Control larvae exhibited higher GPx and GST activities compared to those treated with B.h., S.c., or the B.h. + S.c. combination. Conversely, MDA levels displayed the opposite trend. SOD activity was reduced in the B.h. and S.c. groups but significantly higher in the combined treatment. Cytochrome P450 activity increased in response to parasitism by B. hebetor. The Annexin V-FITC assay revealed decreased cell viability in parasitized groups (B.h. 79.4%, S.c. 77.3%, B.h. + S.c. 70.1%) compared to controls. DNA damage analysis demonstrated significant differences between groups, and SEM observations confirmed severe cuticle abnormalities or malformations in G. mellonella larvae. These findings highlight the complex interactions between B. hebetor, S. carpocapsae, and their host, G. mellonella. Additionally, they illuminate the intricate physiological responses triggered within the host larvae.

Monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin C66 and B2BrBC modulate oxidative stress, JNK activity, and pancreatic gene expression in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

The pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) involves oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound found in turmeric, known to exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, is characterized by poor chemical stability, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism. Monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin (MACs) with a structural absence of β-diketone and enhanced stability and bioavailability present a potential solution to the challenges associated with the use of curcumin. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two MACs, C66 and B2BrBC, on oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzyme activity, expression of diabetes-associated genes, and signaling pathway proteins in the context of T1DM. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male Wistar rats or rat pancreatic RIN-m cells were used for in vivo and in vitro experiments, respectively. C66 or B2BrBC were given either before or after STZ treatment. Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined in various tissues. Expression of diabetes-associated genes was assessed using RT-qPCR, and the activity of signaling pathway proteins in the pancreas was determined through Western blot analysis. Treatment with C66 and B2BrBC significantly reduced oxidative stress markers and positively influenced antioxidant enzyme activities. Moreover, both compounds inhibited JNK activity in the pancreas while enhancing the expression of genes crucial for β-cell survival and glucose and redox homeostasis. The findings highlight the multifaceted potential of C66 and B2BrBC in ameliorating oxidative stress, influencing gene expression patterns linked to diabetes, and modulating key signaling pathways in the pancreas. The findings suggest that these compounds can potentially address diabetes-related pathological processes.

Combined effects of heatwaves and atmospheric CO₂ levels on Brassica juncea phytoremediation

Heatwaves, expected to become more frequent, pose a significant threat to plant biomass production. This experiment was designed to estimate heatwave influence on Brassica juncea phytoremediation when superimposed on different CO2 levels. A 7-day heatwave was generated during the species flowering stage. Heatwaves decreased all B. juncea dry weights. The lowest species dry weight was recorded when the heatwave was accompanied by 250 ppm CO2, in which the biomass significantly decreased by 40.0% relative to that of no heatwave under the same atmospheric CO2 conditions. Heatwave superposition with 250 ppm CO2 reduced the Cd content in B. juncea aerial parts by 28.1% relative to that of identical environmental conditions without heatwave, whereas the opposite result was observed under 550 ppm CO2 conditions. The heatwave caused oxidative damage to B. juncea under all CO2 conditions, as manifested by increased malondialdehyde levels in the plant shoots. With heatwave superposition, antioxidant enzyme activity was enhanced by exposure to 400 and 550 ppm CO2. Considering biomass yield generation and Cd uptake capacity, heatwave superposition decreased the B. juncea phytoremediation effects, and high atmospheric CO2 conditions could alleviate detrimental effects to a certain extent. This study uniquely examines the combined effects of heatwaves and varying CO2 levels on phytoremediation, providing microscopic insights into oxidative damage and enzyme activity, highlighting the potential for CO2 enrichment to mitigate heatwave impacts, and offering comprehensive analysis for future agricultural practices and environmental management.

Diclofenac enhances Boron nitride nanoparticle toxicity in freshwater green microalgae, Scenedesmus obliquus: Elucidating the role of oxidative stress

Boron nanoparticles have numerous medical, industrial, and environmental applications as potential nanomaterials. Given the inevitable release of these particles in aquatic environments, they can combine with other pollutants like pharmaceuticals. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate their combined detrimental effects on freshwater biota. This study examined the joint impacts of Boron nitride nanoparticles (BNNPs) and Diclofenac (DCF) on freshwater microalgae Scenedesmus obliquus. Three different concentrations of BNNPs (0.1, 1, and 10 mg L−1) were mixed with 1 mg L−1 of DCF and were treated with algal cells, and biochemical analyses were performed. A concentration-dependent decrease in algal cell viability was observed after a 72-h interaction period with BNNPs and their binary combinations. The maximum toxic effects were observed for the highest combination of BNNPs + DCF, i.e., 10 mg L−1 BNNPs + 1 mg L−1 DCF. Similarly, an increase in the oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant enzyme activity was observed, which correlated directly to the decline in cell viability. The algal cells also showed reduced photosynthetic efficiency and electron transfer rate upon interaction with BNNPs. The results of this research emphasize the importance of considering the negative consequences of emerging pollutants and their combinations with other pollutants, BNNPs, and DCF as part of a thorough evaluation of ecotoxicity in freshwater algal species.