Plasma Glutathione Peroxidase Activity Research Articles

Effects of replacing Na selenite in laying hen feed with selenized glucose on production performance, egg quality, egg selenium content, microbial population, immunological response, antioxidant enzymes, and fatty acid composition

This study aimed to explore the effects of selenized glucose (SeGlu) and Na selenite supplementation on various aspects of laying hens such as production performance, egg quality, egg Se concentration, microbial population, antioxidant enzymes activity, immunological response, and yolk fatty acid profile. Using a 2 × 2 factorial design, 168 laying hens at 27-wk of age were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups with 7 replications. Se source (Na selenite and SeGlu) and Se level (0.3 and 0.6 mg/kg) were used as treatments. When 0.3 mg SeGlu/kg was compared to 0.3 mg Na selenite/kg, the interaction findings revealed that 0.3 mg SeGlu/kg increased egg production percent and shell ash (P < 0.05). When compared to 0.3 mg Na selenite/kg, dietary supplementation with 0.3 and 0.6 mg SeGlu/kg resulted in an increase in albumen height, Haugh unit, and yolk color of fresh eggs (P < 0.05). SeGlu enhanced albumen height, Haugh unit, shell thickness (P < 0.01), albumen index, yolk share, specific gravity, shell ash (P < 0.05) of fresh eggs and shell thickness (P < 0.05) of stored eggs as compared to Na selenite. The interaction showed that 0.6 mg SeGlu/kg enhanced yolk Se concentration while decreasing malondialdehyde levels in fresh egg yolk (P < 0.05). SeGlu enhanced Se concentration in albumen and glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma (P < 0.05) as compared to Na selenite. 0.6 mg Se/kg increased lactic acid bacteria, antibody response to sheep red blood cells, and lowered ∑n-6 PUFA/ ∑n-3 PUFA ratio (P < 0.05). As a result, adding SeGlu to the feed of laying hens enhanced egg production, egg quality, egg Se concentration, fresh yolk lipid oxidation, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity.

Quantitative Proteomics Combined with Network Pharmacology Analysis Unveils the Biological Basis of Schisandrin B in Treating Diabetic Nephropathy.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication of diabetes. Schisandrin B (Sch) is a natural pharmaceutical monomer that was shown to prevent kidney damage caused by diabetes and restore its function. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive and systematic understanding of the mechanism of Sch treatment in DN. We aim to provide a systematic overview of the mechanisms of Sch in multiple pathways to treat DN in rats. Streptozocin was used to build a DN rat model, which was further treated with Sch. The possible mechanism of Sch protective effects against DN was predicted using network pharmacology and was verified by quantitative proteomics analysis. High dose Sch treatment significantly downregulated fasting blood glucose, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and urinary protein levels and reduced collagen deposition in the glomeruli and tubule-interstitium of DN rats. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the kidney of DN rats significantly increased with Sch treatment. In addition, the levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α were significantly reduced in DN rats treated with Sch. 11 proteins that target both Sch and DN were enriched in pathways such as MAPK signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, renal cell carcinoma, gap junction, endocrine resistance, and TNF signaling. Furthermore, quantitative proteomics showed that Xaf1 was downregulated in the model vs. control group and upregulated in the Sch-treated vs. model group. Five proteins, Crb3, Tspan4, Wdr45, Zfp512, and Tmigd1, were found to be upregulated in the model vs. control group and downregulated in the Sch vs. model group. Three intersected proteins between the network pharmacology prediction and proteomics results, Crb3, Xaf1, and Tspan4, were identified. Sch functions by relieving oxidative stress and the inflammatory response by regulating Crb3, Xaf1, and Tspan4 protein expression levels to treat DN disease.

Oxidative Stress Induced by Chemotherapy: Evaluation of Glutathione and Its Related Antioxidant Enzyme Dynamics in Patients with Colorectal Cancer.

One of the mechanisms of chemotherapy is to increase the oxidative stress of cancer cells, leading to their apoptosis. Glutathione (GSH) and its related antioxidant enzymes might be stimulated to cope with increased oxidative stress during chemotherapy. Here, we studied the fluctuation in oxidative stress and GSH-related antioxidant capacities before tumor resection, after tumor resection, and after resection either with or without chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). This was a cross-sectional and follow-up design. We followed patients before having tumor resection (pre-resection), one month after tumor resection (post-resection), and after the first scheduled chemotherapy (post-chemo). If patients were required to receive chemotherapy after tumor resection, they were assigned to the chemotherapy group. Eligible patients were scheduled to undergo six to twelve cycles of chemotherapy at 2-week intervals and received single, double, or triple chemotherapeutic drugs as required. Those patients who did not require chemotherapy were assigned to the non-chemotherapy group. Indicators of oxidative stress and GSH-related antioxidant capacities were determined at the above three time points. We found in 48 patients of the chemotherapy group and in 43 patients of the non-chemotherapy group different fluctuations in levels of oxidative stress indicators and GSH-related antioxidant capacities starting from pre-resection, post-resection through the post-chemo period. Both groups showed significantly or slightly increased levels of advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), GSH, and its related enzymes in tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. Patients in the chemotherapy group had significantly lower plasma levels of GSH and glutathione disulfide (GSSG), but had significantly higher plasma glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities than patients in the non-chemotherapy group post-chemo. Plasma levels of malondialdehyde and AOPP were positively or negatively associated with GSH and GSSG levels post-chemo after adjustment for age, sex, and histological grading in patients receiving chemotherapy. These significant associations were, however, not seen in patients without chemotherapy. Patients with CRC may require higher GSH demands to cope with a greater oxidative stress resulting from chemotherapy.

Baseline and recurrent exposure to the standard dose of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) induces oxidative stress and liver damage in mice (BALB/c)

BackgroundIn malaria-endemic countries, repeated intake of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) is rampant and driven by drug resistance, improper usage, and easy accessibility. Stress effects and potential liver toxicity due to the frequent therapeutic use of ACTs have not been extensively studied. Here, we investigated the effects of repeated treatment with standard doses of the commonly used ACTs artemether/lumefantrine (A/L) and artesunate-amodiaquine (A/A) on oxidative stress and liver function markers in male mice (BALB/c).MethodsForty Five mice were divided into three groups: control, A/L, and A/A. The drugs were administered three days in a row per week, and the regimen was repeated every two weeks for a total of six cycles. The levels of oxidative stress and liver function markers were measured in both plasma and liver tissue after initial (baseline) and repeated exposures for the second, third, and sixth cycles.ResultsExposure to A/L or A/A caused a significant (p < 0.001) increase in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels after the first and repeated exposure periods. However, Hepatic MDA levels increased significantly (p < 0.01) only after the sixth exposure to A/A. Following either single or repeated exposure to A/L or A/A, plasma and liver glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities, plasma aspartate and alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase activity, and bilirubin levels increased, whereas total plasma protein levels decreased significantly (p < 0.001). Varying degrees of hepatocyte degeneration and blood vessel congestion were observed in liver tissues after a single or repeated treatment period.ConclusionIrrespective of single or repeated exposure to therapeutic doses of A/L or A/A, plasma oxidative stress and liver damage were observed. However, long-term repeated A/A exposure can led to hepatic stress. Compensatory processes involving GPx and CAT activities may help reduce the observed stress.

The Role Of Bee-Propolis As Antioxidants On Antioxidant Enzymes Inmale Rabbits

Propolis has been reported to be important antioxidantThe biological effects exhibited by propolis could be related to an overall effect of the phenolic compounds present in propolis (flavonol galangin; hydroxycinnamic acids, caffeic acid, p-cumaric acid, ferulic acid and caffeic acid phenethyl ester Rabbits were orally given propolis (50 mg/kg bw) was given alone. The tested doses were given to rabbits every day for 12 weeks. The effects of propolis on plasma and testes homogenates thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), antioxidant enzyme glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S- transferase (GST), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities Treatment with propolis caused significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in the activity of antioxidant enzyme GSH, GPx, GST, SOD and CAT in plasma and testes homogenates compared to control. While, propolis caused a significant (P&lt;0.05) decrease in blood plasma and testes homogenates TBARS as compared with control.

Effects of Kudzu Root on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Background: Oxidative stress and inflammation are strictly connected, and both perform an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus (DM). Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of kudzu root against oxidative stress and inflammation in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM animal model. Methods: DM was induced in male Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg body weight). The kudzu root (100 mg/kg BW) was administered orally after 1 week of STZ administration in diabetic animals (for 6 weeks). Results: The diabetic animals exhibited a significant increase in fasting blood glucose, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and malondialdehyde levels. However, they exhibited a significant decrease in plasma insulin level, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activity. Administration of kudzu root to diabetic animals reversed these effects. Conclusion: The current study indicated that kudzu root has potent antidiabetic properties, likely through its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties in the STZ-diabetic rat model.

Slow and Fast-Growing Chickens Use Different Antioxidant Pathways to Maintain Their Redox Balance during Postnatal Growth.

The evolution of parameters known to be relevant indicators of energy status, oxidative stress, and antioxidant defense in chickens was followed. These parameters were measured weekly from 1 to 42 days in plasma and/or muscles and liver of two strains differing in growth rate. At 1-day old, in plasma, slow-growing (SG) chicks were characterized by a high total antioxidant status (TAS), probably related to higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and uric acid levels compared to fast-growing (FG) chicks whereas the lipid peroxidation levels were higher in the liver and muscles of SG day-old chicks. Irrespective of the genotype, the plasma glutathione reductase (GR) and peroxidase (GPx) activities and levels of hydroperoxides and α- and γ-tocopherols decreased rapidly post-hatch. In the muscles, lipid peroxidation also decreased rapidly after hatching as well as catalase, GR, and GPx activities, while the SOD activity increased. In the liver, the TAS was relatively stable the first week after hatching while the value of thio-barbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and GR activity increased and GPx and catalase activities decreased. Our study revealed the strain specificities regarding the antioxidant systems used to maintain their redox balance over the life course. Nevertheless, the age had a much higher impact than strain on the antioxidant ability of the chickens.

Effects of Different Combinations of Sodium Butyrate, Medium-Chain Fatty Acids and Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on the Reproductive Performance of Sows and Biochemical Parameters, Oxidative Status and Intestinal Health of Their Offspring.

The aim of the study was to investigate the comparative effects of different combinations of sodium butyrate (SB), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) on the reproductive performances of sows, as well as on the biochemical parameters, oxidative statuses, and intestinal health of the sucking piglets. A total of 30 sows were randomly allocated to five treatments: (1) control diet (CON); (2) CON with 1 g/kg of coated SB and 7.75 g/kg of coated MCFAs (SM); (3) CON with 1 g/kg of coated SB and 68.2 g/kg of coated n-3 PUFAs (SP); (4) CON with 7.75 g/kg of coated MCFAs and 68.2 g/kg of coated n-3 PUFAs (MP); (5) CON with 1 g/kg of coated SB, 7.75 g/kg of coated MCFAs and 68.2 g/kg of coated n-3 PUFA (SMP). The results showed that sows fed the SP, MP, and SMP diets had shorter weaning-to-estrus intervals than those fed the CON diet (p < 0.01). The piglets in the SM, SP, and MP groups showed higher increases in the plasma catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities than those of the CON group (p < 0.01). The diarrhea incidence of piglets in the SM, SP and SMP groups was lower than that of piglets in the CON group (p < 0.01). Additionally, the addition of SM, SP, MP, and SMP to the sow diets increased the contents of immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin G, fat, and proteins in the colostrum (p < 0.01), as well as the plasma total superoxide dismutase activities (p < 0.01) in the suckling piglets, whereas it decreased the mRNA expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and toll-like receptor 4 in the jejunum mucosa of the piglets. The relative abundances of Prevotella, Coprococcus, and Blautia in the colonic digesta of the piglets were increased in the SM group (p < 0.05), and the relative abundances of Faecalibacterium increased in the SMP group (p < 0.05), compared with the CON group. The relative abundances of Collinsella, Blautia, and Bulleidia in the MP group were higher than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). Collectively, dietary combinations of fatty acids with different chain lengths have positive effects on the growth performances and intestinal health of suckling piglets.

Berberine efficacy against Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: A systematic review

Cardiotoxicity is one of the main complications of chemotherapy that increases morbidity and mortality in cancerous patients. The present systematic review aimed to investigate the protective effects of berberine (Ber) on doxorubicin (Dox)-induced cardiotoxicity. The study protocol was developed following the PRISMA statement. An extensive search was performed in multiple databases, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus. After defining the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the study, 12 records were included. The desired data of the retrieved articles were extracted from the studies and imported into an Excel form and ultimately, the effects, probable outcomes and mechanisms were surveyed. By activating sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), Ber caused reduced oxidative damage and loss of mitochondria integrity in cardiomyocytes. It also regulated autophagy and apoptosis via down-regulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine rich repeat, and pyrin domain containing protein (NLRP) activation. Moreover, Ber increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), up-regulated SIRT3, and subsequently reduced oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes and loss of mitochondria integrity, leading to developed apoptosis and regulating the histopathological and electrocardiogram changes in the myocardium. It also ameliorated the DOX-induced calcium ions (Ca2+) and iron overload. Ber reduced oxidant and inflammatory activity, and regulated apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, thus protecting the cells against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

Efficacy of feeding hydroxy-selenomethionine on plasma and milk selenium in mid-lactation dairy cows

In this study, we aimed to determine the amount of Se transferred to milk and blood of mid- to late-lactation dairy cows when supplemental Se from hydroxy-selenomethionine (OH-SeMet) was fed compared with an unsupplemented group and a group supplemented with a seleno-yeast (SY). Twenty-four lactating Holstein cows (178 ± 43 d in milk) were used in a complete randomized block design for 91 d (7-d covariate period and 84-d treatment period). Treatments were (1) basal diet with an analyzed Se background of 0.2 mg of Se per kg as-fed (control); (2) basal diet + 0.3 mg of Se/kg as-fed from SY (SY-0.3); (3) basal diet + 0.1 mg of Se/kg as-fed from OH-SeMet (OH-SeMet-0.1); and (4) basal diet + 0.3 mg of Se/kg as-fed from OH-SeMet (OH-SeMet-0.3). During the trial, plasma and milk were analyzed for total Se, and plasma was analyzed for glutathione peroxidase activity. The mean plasma and milk Se concentrations exhibited the same relationship, where OH-SeMet-0.3 resulted in the highest values (142 µg/L of plasma and 104 µg/kg of milk), followed by SY-0.3 (134 µg/L and 85 µg/kg), OH-SeMet-0.1 (122 µg/L and 67 µg/kg), and the control group had the lowest values (120 µg/L and 50 µg/kg). The increment of Se in milk induced by OH-SeMet-0.3 (+54 µg/kg) was 54% higher than that induced by SY-0.3 (+35 µg/kg). Additionally, dietary supplementation of 0.2 mg/kg Se from OH-SeMet in the total mixed ration was estimated to be similar to 0.3 mg/kg Se from SY in the total mixed ration when considering the level of Se in the milk. There was no difference in plasma glutathione peroxidase activity between groups; however, OH-SeMet-0.3 significantly decreased somatic cell count. The results confirmed that supplementation with organic Se increases milk and plasma Se concentrations. Moreover, when administered at the same level of supplementation, OH-SeMet was shown to be more efficient than SY in improving milk quality by increasing Se content and decreasing milk somatic cell count.

Comparative Effects of Inorganic and Organic Dietary Sources of Selenium on Selenium Levels and Selenium-Dependent Glutathione Peroxidase Activity in Blood of Young Turkeys

The effect of various dietary sources of Se on Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGSH-Px) activity in plasma and whole blood was studied in turkeys. Dayold poults were fed low Se diets (supplemented with vitamin E) for 15 to 24 days before being fed experimental diets for 7 to 10 days. Menhaden fish meal (0.1 ppm Se) increased plasma SeGSH-Px activity by 45% of the response to 0.1 ppm Se as Na2SeO3. Poults supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 ppm Se as Na2SeO3, had similar increases in plasma and whole blood Se levels; however, SeGSH-Px activity of plasma (r = 0.96) was better correlated with dietary Se than that of whole blood (r = 0.64). The supplement of 0.4 ppm Se increased the activity of SeGSH-Px almost 20 times in plasma but only 1.6 times in whole blood. The effectiveness of several compounds providing 0.2 ppm Se for increasing plasma SeGSH-Px activity was: Na2SeO4 > Se-dl-cystine > Se-dl-methionine and Se-dl-ethionine. The effect of Na2SeO3 was not significantly different from that of Se-dl-cystine, Se-dl-methionine or Se-dl-ethionine. The ratio of SeGSH-Px activity:Se concentration, indicating the amount of Se associated with enzyme activity, was highest in plasma of poults fed Na2SeO4 andSe-dl-cystine. The data demonstrate differences in the availability of various Se sources for SeGSH-Px activity in poults.selenium glutathione peroxidase turkeys fish meal

High Dietary Cation and Anion Difference and High-Dose Ascorbic Acid Modify Acid–Base and Antioxidant Balance in Dairy Goats Fed under Tropical Conditions

High ambient temperature (HTa) causes acid-base imbalance and systemic oxidative stress, and this may indirectly affect the mammary gland. Furthermore, HTa induces intracellular oxidative stress, which has been proposed to affect cell metabolism directly. We previously showed in dairy goats that the negative effect of HTa was compromised by enhancing heat dissipation during a high dietary cation and anion difference (DCAD) regimen. Moreover, high-dose vitamin C or ascorbic acid (AA) supplements have been used to manage oxidative stress in ruminants. The present study hypothesized that high DCAD and AA supplements that could alleviate the HTa effect would influence the milk synthesis pathway and mammary gland function. The results showed that goats fed with high DCAD had higher blood pH than control goats in the 4th week. The high dose of AA supplement decreases urine pH in the 8th week. The percent reduction of urine pH from the AA supplement was significant in the DCAD group. The high-dose AA supplement decreased plasma glutathione peroxidase activity and malonaldehyde. This effect was enhanced by a high DCAD supplement. In addition, supplementation with AA increased milk protein and citrate and decreased milk FFA. These alterations indicate the intracellular biochemical pathway of energy metabolism and milk synthesis. It can be concluded that a high DCAD regimen and AA supplement in dairy goats fed under HTa could influence the milk synthesis pathway. The evidence suggests that HTa decreases mammary gland function by modification of acid-base homeostasis and oxidative stress.

Feeding rumen-protected lysine altered immune and metabolic biomarkers in dairy cows during the transition period

This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of feeding rumen-protected lysine (RPL; AjiPro-L Generation 3, Ajinomoto Health and Nutrition North America Inc.) from -26 ± 4.6 d prepartum (0.54% RPL of dietary dry matter intake) to 28 d postpartum (0.39% RPL of dietary dry matter intake) on immunometabolic status and liver composition in dairy cows. Seventy-five multiparous Holstein cows, blocked by parity, previous 305-d mature-equivalent milk production, expected calving date, and body condition score during the far-off dry period were assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments in a randomized, complete block design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Treatments prepartum consisted of total mixed ration top dressed with RPL (PRE-L) or without RPL (PRE-C), and postpartum treatments consisted of total mixed ration top dressed PRE-L prepartum and postpartum, PRE-L prepartum and PRE-C postpartum, PRE-C prepartum and PRE-L postpartum, and PRE-C prepartum and postpartum in 300 g of molasses. Blood samples were taken on -7 ± 0.5, 0 ± 0.5, 7 ± 0.9, 14 ± 0.9, and 28 ± 0.5 d relative to calving. Whole blood samples were taken on -14 ± 0.5, -7 ± 0.5, 7 ± 0.9, and 14 ± 0.9 d relative to calving for oxidative burst and phagocytic capacity of monocytes and neutrophils. Liver samples were collected via a biopsy on -12 ± 4.95 and 13 ± 2.62 d relative to calving and analyzed for liver composition (triacylglyceride and carnitine concentrations), mRNA expression of hepatic genes, and protein abundance. Protein abundance was calculated by normalizing intensity bands for a specific protein with glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Concentrations of haptoglobin and glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma were lower at d 0 for cows in PRE-L (102 µg/mL and 339 nmol/min per mL, respectively) compared with cows in PRE-C (165 µg/mL and 405 nmol/min per mL, respectively). Oxidative burst capacity in monocytes tended to be greater on d 7 postpartum for cows in PRE-L (65.6%) than cows in PRE-C (57.5%). Additionally, feeding RPL altered the mRNA expression in liver tissue prepartum [decreased INSR (insulin receptor), CPT1A (carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A), and IL1B (interleukin 1 β)] and postpartum [increased IL8 (interleukin 8), EHMT2 (euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2), TSPO (translocator protein), and SLC3A2 (solute carrier family 3 member 2); and decreased SLC7A1 (solute carrier family 7 member 1), SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1), and SAA3 (serum amyloid A 3)] compared with cows not consuming RPL]. Additionally, cows in the PRE-C prepartum and PRE-L postpartum treatment tended to have greater protein abundance of mTOR postpartum compared with the PRE-C prepartum and postpartum treatment. Protein abundance of SLC7A7 (solute carrier family 7 member 7) pre- and postpartum tended to be greater and BBOX1 (gamma-butyrobetaine dioxygenase 1) tended to be less when RPL was consumed prepartum. In conclusion, cows that consumed RPL during the transition period had molecular changes related to liver composition, enhanced liver function indicated by greater total protein and albumin concentrations in plasma, and improved immune status indicated by decreased haptoglobin, glutathione peroxidase activity, and immune related mRNA expression.

Effects of dietary β-glucan on growth rate, antioxidant status, immune response, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in genetic improvement of farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus)

This study was conducted to assess the influences of dietary β-glucan on growth rate, antioxidant status, immunity response, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus). Four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated to contain 0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.8% β-glucan, respectively. Fish with similar size (average body weight, 3.43 ± 0.02 g) were randomly distributed into 12 tanks with 40 juveniles per tank and hand-fed to apparent satiation twice daily for 10 weeks. The fish were then challenged by A. hydrophila and their cumulative survival rate was recorded for the next week. No obvious influences on growth rate and feed utilization of GIFT were induced by dietary β-glucan addition (P > 0.05). However, dietary 0.4% β-glucan inclusion increased the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level but decreased the triglyceride, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels as well as alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities (P < 0.05). Similarly, the increased intestinal superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) activities as well as the decreased intestinal malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species contents were also observed in GIFT fed diet with 0.4% β-glucan (P < 0.05). Dietary addition of 0.8% β-glucan increased the plasma SOD, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase, and TAC activities, but reduced the plasma MDA content (P < 0.05). Dietary β-glucan inclusion regardless of levels improved the hepatic SOD, glutathione reductase, catalase, peroxidase, TAC, and acid phosphatase activities, but depressed the hepatic nitric oxide and MDA contents (P < 0.05). Plasma lysozyme activity was improved by the inclusion of 0.4% and 0.8% β-glucan (P < 0.05); plasma immunoglobulin M, complement 3 and complement 4 contents were improved by dietary β-glucan inclusion (P < 0.05); respiratory burst activity of macrophages was improved by the addition of 0.2% β-glucan (P < 0.05). Additionally, dietary β-glucan supplementation reduced the mortality rate and increased the relative percentage survival of GIFT challenged by A. hydrophila (P < 0.05). These results indicated that suitable β-glucan inclusion (0.4–0.8%) could promote the antioxidant status, immune response and disease resistance of GIFT, and β-glucan can be used as a feed additive for GIFT.

Evaluation of oxidative stress and efficacy of antioxidant therapy in dogs with haemorrhagic gastroenteritis

The present study was conducted to evaluate the alterations in oxidative stress parameters in dogs suffering from haemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). Dogs presented with vomiting and diarrhoea were screened and fifteen animals with signs suggestive of HGE were included in the study. The oxidative stress parameters, serummalondialdehyde (MDA) level, total antioxidant status (TAS) and plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity were studied. The values were compared with the values from six apparently healthy dogs. A significant increase was noticed in the mean values of serum MDA and TAS of diseased animals at the time of presentation when compared to healthy animals whereas the activity of plasma GSH-Px was found to be lower than in healthy dogs. Supplementation with N-acetyl cysteine @ 70 mg/kg or five days was found effective in managing the oxidative injury in the affected animals.

Anti-oxidant effect of N-acetyl cysteine in dogs with chronic kidney disease

The present study was carried out with the objectives of assessing oxidative stress in dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and evaluating response to treatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Dogs diagnosed with stage III CKD as per the guidelines of the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) were included in the study. The animals were divided into two groups. Animals of one group were given standard therapy for CKD and the animals of the second group were administered NAC along with standard therapy. Oxidative stress parameters such as total antioxidant status (TAS), serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level and plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity were studied. On the day of presentation, a significant increase in the mean values of serum MDA and TAS were observed in diseased animals compared to healthy animals, whereas a significant decline was noted in plasma GSH-Px activity. After treatment, a significant decline in serum MDA and TAS were recorded in animals of group II receiving NAC therapy. A significant increase in plasma glutathione GSH-Px activity was recorded in this group. N-acetyl cysteine therapy was found to be effective in the management of oxidative stress in dogs with chronic kidney disease.

Myrcene as water conditioner, stress-reducing and antioxidant agent in transportation of common carp, Cyprinus carpio, with plastic bags

This study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of myrcene on water quality and stress responses of common carp, Cyprinus carpio, during transportation. A total of 126 fish (45.3 ± 1.65 g) were transported using 0, 10, 20, 30, and 50 µL/L myrcene for 6 h. All transported treatments exhibited significant decrease in water pH, dissolved oxygen, and increase in water temperature and ammonia. Myrcene had no effects on water pH and temperature after transportation, but 10 µL/L myrcene significantly decreased water dissolved oxygen, as 30 µL/L myrcene increased it, compared to the fish transported without myrcene. Moreover, 20–50 µL/L myrcene significantly decreased water ammonia, compared to the fish transported without myrcene. Transportation induced significant increases in water alkalinity in 0–30 µL/L myrcene and the highest alkalinity was related to 10 µL/L myrcene. Plasma ammonia significantly increased in all treatments after transportation and the lowest and highest levels were observed in fish transported with 20 and 50 µL/L myrcene. Plasma lactate significantly decreased in fish transported with 0–30 µL/L myrcene; but increased in fish transported with 50 µL/L myrcene. All transported fish showed similar plasma T4 levels, which were significantly lower than the before transportation. Transportation induced significant increase in plasma cortisol, glucose, superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde and significant decrease in plasma T3, which 10 µL/L myrcene failed to mitigate such change, and nevertheless, 20 and 30 µL/L myrcene mitigated such changes. 50 µL/L myrcene led to higher cortisol, glucose, CAT, MDA, and lower T3 and GSH, compared to fish transported without myrcene. Plasma glutathione peroxidase activity significantly decreased in fish transported with 50 µL/L myrcene, compared to fish not transported. Myrcene is recommended as a sedative and stress-reducing agent in common carp transportation procedures. The beneficial concentration is 20–30 µL/L, but lower and higher concentrations have negative effects.

Protective effects of protocatechuic acid on growth performance, intestinal barrier and antioxidant capacity in broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide

‘Prohibition of the antibiotic uses’ aggravates the problem of intestinal diseases in poultry, and nutritional regulation has become a research hotspot, such as supplementation with active ingredients derived from plants. This research was conducted to investigate the effects of protocatechuic acid (PCA) on growth, intestinal barrier, and antioxidant capacity of broilers injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Four hundred and eighty 1-day-old yellow feather broilers were randomly allocated to four groups, each with six replicates of 20 broilers. The treatments were basal diet + saline injection (CON) or LPS injection (CON-LPS), and diets with 300 or 600 mg/kg PCA supplementation + LPS injection (P300, P600). Birds were injected intramuscularly on 17th and 19th day of age, then sampled on day 21. The LPS injection significantly decreased BW and average daily gain of broilers, and compared with birds in CON-LPS, PCA supplementation increased (P < 0.05) those variables; moreover, 300 mg/kg PCA also decreased the feed-to-gain ratio. No differences were observed in relative weights of immune organs (P > 0.05). LPS decreased the villus height/crypt depth ratio (V/C) in jejunum of broilers, while PCA (P300 and P600) increased (P < 0.05) the jejunal villus height and V/C compared with birds in CON-LPS. LPS challenge increased jejunal malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreased total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in plasma (P < 0.05); compared with birds in CON-LPS, jejunal and plasmal GSH-Px activity (P300 and P600) and jejunal T-SOD activity (P300) were decreased (P < 0.05), and hepatic MDA concentration (P600) was increased (P < 0.05). LPS significantly decreased the transcript abundances of OCLN, ZO-1, JAM2, MUC2, SOD1, CAT and GPX in jejunal mucosa of birds, and supplementation with PCA attenuated the decrease in OCLN, JAM2, and MUC2 expression compared with birds in CON-LPS; moreover, 600 mg/kg PCA offset the deduction in SOD1, CAT and GPX expression. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with PCA could improve antioxidant status and attenuate the damage in intestinal barrier and loss in growth performance of LPS-challenged broilers, and 600 mg/kg PCA showed more improved effects on antioxidant capacity.

Analysis of the Role of PI3K/Akt Pathway in the Realization of the Normalizing Effect of Low-Molecular-Weight Mimetics of NGF and BDNF on Activity of Prooxidant and Antioxidant Systems in C57BL/6 Mice with Modeled Diabetes.

The effect of low-molecular-weight mimetics of NGF and BDNF (GK-2 and GSB-214 in a dose 0.5 mg/kg, respectively) on malondialdehyde content and activity of an antioxidant defense enzyme glutathione peroxidase was studied in experiments on C57BL/6 mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. An increase in the malondialdehyde content indicating enhanced formation of peroxidation products and a decrease of glutathione peroxidase activity in the blood plasma of untreated diabetic animals were revealed. Both studied mimetics were shown to attenuate the severity of these disorders. Since the ability of these compounds to activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was previously demonstrated in vitro on HT-22 cell culture, we studied the effect of LY294002, an inhibitor of this pathway, on the above parameters. It was found that LY294002 attenuates the normalizing effect of GK-2 and GSB-214 only in relation to glutathione peroxidase activity, but not malondialdehyde level.

Selenium and Redox Enzyme Activity in Pregnant Women Exposed to Methylmercury.

Selenium (Se) is a micronutrient with essential physiological functions achieved through the production of selenoproteins. Adequate Se intake has health benefits and reduces mercury (Hg) toxicity, which is important due to its neurotoxicity. This study determined the Se status and redox enzyme, including selenoproteins', activity in pregnant women highly exposed to Hg (between 1 to 54 µg Hg/L blood) via fish consumption. A cross-sectional study enrolling 513 women between the first and third trimester of pregnancy from Madeira, Portugal was conducted, encompassing collection of blood and plasma samples. Samples were analyzed for total Se and Hg levels in whole blood and plasma, and plasma activity of redox-active proteins, such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) and thioredoxin (Trx). Enzyme activities were related to Se and Hg levels in blood. Se levels in whole blood (65.0 ± 13.1 µg/L) indicated this population had a sub-optimal Se status, which translated to low plasma GPx activity (69.7 ± 28.4 U/L). The activity of TrxR (12.3 ± 5.60 ng/mL) was not affected by the low Se levels. On the other hand, the decrease in Trx activity with an increase in Hg might be a good indicator to prevent fetal susceptibility.