Prooxidant-antioxidant Balance Research Articles

The associations of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers with obesity in Iranian population: MASHAD cohort study

BackgroundLow-grade inflammation and stress oxidative condition play a role in the pathogenesis of obesity, and the serum levels of these markers, such as pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and uric acid may indicate obesity progression. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between obesity with PAB, hs-CRP, and uric acid in the Iranian population.MethodsThis study was derived from the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorder (MASHAD) study. A total of 7985 subjects aged 35 to 65 years were divided into three groups according to body mass index (BMI) as: normal, overweight and obese groups. Anthropometric indices and biochemical parameters such as PAB, superoxide dismutase type 1 (SOD1), hs-CRP, and uric acid were measured in all the participants. We evaluated the association of obesity with inflammatory factors by using multivariate regression analysis. Also, those participants with hypertension, an endocrine disorder, history of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus were excluded from the study.ResultsThere was a positive significant correlation between BMI and serum PAB, hs-CRP and uric acid (p < 0.001). While no statistically significant relation was observed between BMI and SOD1 (p = 0.85). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the risk of overweight and obesity increased 1.02 and 1.03-fold according to increase 10 units of PAB raise in comparison to reference group (normal weight) [(odds ratio (OR): 1.02, 95% CI (1.01–1.03)] and [OR: 1.03, 95% CI (1.01–1.04)], respectively). In addition, hs-CRP serum concentration was significantly associated with a high risk of obesity [(OR: 1.02; 95% CI (1.01–1.03)]. While the high levels of serum uric acid were associated with increased odds of overweight and obesity risk [OR: 1.4; CI (1.39–1.58) and OR: 1.76; CI (1.63–1.89), respectively].ConclusionsGenerally, we showed a significant association between BMI and serum PAB, hs-CRP values and uric acid levels, suggesting the role of these factors as risk stratification factors for obesity.

Analysis of the therapeutic potential of miR-124 and miR-16 in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BackgroundsNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common condition affecting >25 % of the population worldwide. This disorder ranges in severity from simple steatosis (fat accumulation) to severe steatohepatitis (inflammation), fibrosis and, at its end-stage, liver cancer. A number of studies have identified overexpression of several key genes that are critical in the initiation and progression of NAFLD. MiRNAs are potential therapeutic agents that can regulate several genes simultaneously. Therefore, we transfected cell lines with two key miRNAs involved in targeting NAFLD-related genes. MethodsThe suppression effects of the investigated miRNAs (miR-124 and miR-16) and genes (TNF, TLR4, SCD, FASN, SREBF2, and TGFβ-1) from our previous study were investigated by real-time PCR in Huh7 and HepG2 cells treated with oleic acid. Oil red O staining and the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay were utilized to assess cell lipid accumulation and cytotoxic effects of the miRNAs, respectively. The pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) assay was undertaken for miR-16 and miR-124 after cell transfection. ResultsFollowing transfection of miRNAs into HepG2, oil red O staining showed miR-124 and miR-16 reduced oleic acid-induced lipid accumulation by 35.2 % and 28.6 % respectively (p < 0.05). In Huh7, miR-124 and miR-16 reduced accumulation by 23.5 % and 31.3 % respectively (p < 0.05) but without impacting anti-oxidant activity. Real-time PCR in HepG2 revealed miR-124 decreased expression of TNF by 0.13-fold, TLR4 by 0.12-fold and SREBF2 by 0.127-fold (p < 0.05). miR-16 decreased TLR4 by 0.66-fold and FASN by 0.3-fold (p < 0.05). In Huh7, miR-124 decreased TNF by 0.12-fold and FASN by 0.09-fold (p < 0.05). miR-16 decreased SCD by 0.28-fold and FASN by 0.64-fold (p < 0.05). MTT assays showed, in HepG2, viability was decreased 24.7 % by miR-124 and decreased 33 % by miR-16 at 72 h (p < 0.05). In Huh7, miR-124 decreased viability 42 % at 48 h and 29.33 % at 72 h (p < 0.05), while miR-16 decreased viability by 32.3 % (p < 0.05). ConclusionThese results demonstrate the ability of miR-124 and miR-16 to significantly reduce lipid accumulation and expression of key pathogenic genes associated with NAFLD through direct targeting. Though this requires further in vivo investigation.

The effect of oral trehalose on inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, nutritional and clinical status in patients with head trauma at intensive care unit: A pilot, double-blind, controlled, randomized clinical trial

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is the most common cause of cognitive and behavioral deficits, disability, and mortality worldwide. Trehalose is a natural non-reducing disaccharide of glucose which its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects have been proven in past in vivo and in vitro studies. This study aims to evaluate the effect of oral trehalose on inflammatory biomarkers, oxidative stress indices and clinical outcomes in hospitalized traumatic brain injury patients. MethodsTwenty participants with traumatic brain injury were randomly assigned to the intervention or control group in order to evaluate the effect of oral trehalose (30g instead as a part of the daily carbohydrate of enteral feeding) or placebo groups (standard isocaloric hospital enteral feeding) using 12-day parallel study. Inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), clinical outcomes, including APACHE II, SOFA scores, NUTRIC score, GCS, ICU discharge time, mechanical ventilator duration, 28-day and 60-day mortality rate were measured at the beginning and end of the study. ResultsThe trehalose intake could significantly improve CRP (mean change: −30±25mg/l, P˂0.001) and NUTRIC score (mean change: 0(−2,0), P=0.04). In addition, a marginally significant decrease in APACHE II score (mean change: −3±5, P=0.07) and 28-day mortality (0 vs. 30%; P=0.06, {NNT}=3) was observed. Moreover, among anthropometric indicators, only a marginally decrease in MAC (mean change: −0.5(−1,0) was shown. No considerable effect was observed on other biomarkers, anthropometric indices and clinical outcomes in the intervention group as well as the control group. ConclusionThis trial provided some evidences that trehalose administration improved CRP and marginally improved some clinical outcomes, such as NUTRIC score and 28-day mortality in TBI patients in ICU.

Increased oxidative stress in shoe industry workers with low-level exposure to a mixture of volatile organic compounds.

This study aimed to assess the redox status and trace metal levels in 49 shoe industry workers (11 men and 38 women) occupationally exposed to a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which includes aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, esters, ethers, and carboxylic acids. All measured VOCs were below the permitted occupational exposure limits. The control group included 50 unexposed participants (25 men and 25 women). The following plasma parameters were analysed: superoxide anion (O2 •-), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), total oxidative status (TOS), prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), oxidative stress index (OSI), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) enzyme activity, total SH group content (SHG), and total antioxidant status (TAS). Trace metal levels (copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, and manganese) were analysed in whole blood. All oxidative stress and antioxidative defence parameters were higher in the exposed workers than controls, except for PON1 activity. Higher Fe, Mg, and Zn, and lower Cu were observed in the exposed vs control men, while the exposed women had higher Fe and lower Mg, Zn, and Cu than their controls. Our findings confirm that combined exposure to a mixture of VOCs, even at permitted levels, may result in additive or synergistic adverse health effects and related disorders. This raises concern about current risk assessments, which mainly rely on the effects of individual chemicals, and calls for risk assessment approaches that can explain combined exposure to multiple chemicals.

Association between Genetic Variants Linked to Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Inflammatory Markers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Premature menopause (PM) is the cessation of ovarian function before age 40. PM women are more likely to have cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes, and mental disorders. This is the first study that assessed the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with anti-heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27), High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs- CRP), and PM and serum pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), as putative risk factors for CVDs. We aimed to explore the association of oxidative stress markers with eight different SNPs shown to be related to premature menopause. In this cross-sectional research, we included 183 healthy women and 117 premature menopausal women. We determined baseline characteristics for all participants and measured serum hs-CRP, anti-HSP-27 antibody titer, and PAB levels using the established methods. Genotyping for eight SNPs was done using the tetra amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (Tetra-ARMS PCR) and allele-specific oligonucleotide PCR (ASO-PCR) methods. We found a significant difference between mean serum PAB levels and the genetic variant of rs16991615 (P=0.03). ANCOVA showed a significant effect of the genotypes rs4806660 and rs10183486 on hs-CRP serum levels in the case and control groups, respectively (P=0.04 and P=0.007). ANCOVA also showed an association between rs244715 genotypes and anti-hsp27 serum levels in the case group (P=0.02). There was a significant effect of the genotypes of rs451417 on the serum hs-CRP level in the control group (P=0.03). There was a significant association of the genetic variants related to PM with oxidative stress and inflammatory markers (serum PAB, anti-hsp27 antibody, and hs-CRP). Accordingly, this seems to be an effective approach to predicting susceptible subjects for cardiovascular and mental disorders as well as various cancers.

A Survey on Diagnosis and Prognosis of Prenatal Asphyxia based on Antioxidant Oxidant Balance: Evidence from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The mechanism of occurrence and complications of asphyxia change in the treatment process and the future prognosis of newborns. One of the discussed mechanisms is the disruption of oxidants to anti-oxidants balance. Therefore, the current study was conducted aiming to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis on the diagnosis and prognosis of prenatal asphyxia based on oxidant-antioxidant balance. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, up to February 2023 to identify relevant studies examining the association between Prooxidant anti-oxidant balance (PAB) and Malondialdehyde 1 levels with the risk of prenatal asphyxia. Only English studies were incorporated. The search terms used included Asphyxia, Diagnosis, Prognosis, Newborns, Prenatal, Oxidant antioxidant balance, and oxidative stress. A total of 13 studies were retrieved. Data regarding the standard mean difference (SMD) were collected, and a pooled SMD with 95%CI was calculated using a random-effect model to determine the strength of the relationship. Furthermore, the risk of publication bias was assessed through funnel plot and Egger's linear regression tests. Inclusion criteria was 1) The studies conducted on neonates, diagnosis and outcomes of prenatal asphyxia, oxidants and antioxidants were included. Research conducted on adults or on animals or review articles, and articles in which only their abstracts were available were excluded. The quality of the reported studies was also assessed. Out of 980 searched articles, 13 articles (10 prospective articles and 3 cross-sectional articles) were studied. An increase in antioxidant enzymes (Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and Plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD)) cannot be dealt with excessive oxidants produced in the body (Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), free radical products (F8-isoprostane and MDA), saturated fatty acids and % CoQ-10). Prooxidant anti-oxidant balance (PAB) levels among neonates who had asphyxia were announced to be two times higher than normal newborns. PAB values in neonates with asphyxia, who had adverse prognosis, were about three times higher than those with favorable prognosis. The sensitivity of PAB in predicting the prognosis of neonates with asphyxia was reported 83- 89% and its specificity was 71- 92%. The pooled SMD analysis revealed a significant association between PAB and MDA levels with the risk of prenatal asphyxia both overall (SMD = 1.447, 95%CI: 0.961-1.934, P < 0.001), as well as separately in subgroups of PAB (SMD = 1.134, 95%CI: 0.623-1.644, P < 0.001) and MDA (SMD = 1.910, 95%CI: 0.916-2.903, P < 0.001). Our meta-analysis findings revealed the potential of evaluating antioxidant enzymes and oxidant agents, as well as assessing the balance between them (PAB), in diagnosing and predicting the prognosis of neonatal asphyxia. The limitations of the present study included not having access to all related complete articles, lack of quality and usability in reports of some articles, and the different diagnostic methods of prenatal asphyxia in different studies.

The Effects of Lycopene on Modulating Oxidative Stress and Liver Enzymes Levels in Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Randomised Clinical Trial.

The pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) complications involves the excessive production of<br />reactive oxygen species, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Due to Lycopene, a highly unstable structure and<br />its significant effects on modulating the metabolic system, there is a strong need for a formula that can increase its<br />stability. The aim of this study was to develop an approach for encapsulating Lycopene and investigate its effects on<br />inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and liver enzymes in patients with MetS.<br />Materials and Methods: This study is a simple randomized, double-blind, objective-based clinical trial that involved<br />eighty subjects with MetS, who were equally and randomly assigned to two groups: one group received 20 mg of<br />Lycopene per day for 8 weeks, and the Placebo group followed the same protocol as the Lycopene group but received<br />a placebo instead of Lycopene. They were called Lycopene and placebo, respectively. During follow-up visits after 4<br />and 8 weeks, 20 ml of blood was collected for evaluation of liver enzymes and some inflammatory related markers.<br />Results: Prior to the assignment of volunteers to their respective groups, there were no notable differences in C-reactive<br />protein (CRP), serum liver enzymes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, or pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB)<br />between the Lycopene and placebo groups. However, our subsequent analysis revealed a significant reduction in the<br />serum levels of CRP (P=0.001) and PAB (P=0.004) in the group that received Lycopene. Our encapsulated Lycopene<br />treatment was not associated with a significant difference in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate<br />transferase (AST), or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) between our two groups.<br />Conclusion: This study investigated the impact of Lycopene on individuals with MetS, revealing a noteworthy<br />modulation effect on PAB and inflammation linked to MetS. However, no significant differences was demonstrated in<br />serum levels of ALT, AST and ALP between the studied group (registration number: IRCT20130507013263N3).

The association of pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance and blood parameters in patients with beta-thalassemia major: a cross-sectional study.

Oxidative stress due to iron accumulation in patients with beta-thalassemia major (BTM) causes complications such as tissue damage and destruction. This study aimed to assess the association between the serum prooxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB) and blood parameters in patients with BTM. This cross-sectional study included 92 patients with BTM. In this study, PAB was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum ferritin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), complete blood cell count (CBC), and history of blood transfusion were recorded. The association of the blood parameters was assessed across the tertiles (T) of serum PAB (highest T vs. lowest T). The results showed that high serum ferritin was directly associated with serum PAB [odds ratio (OR), 12.80; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.98‒54.91; T3 vs. T1]. Also, direct associations were found for high TC (OR, 4.97; 95% CI, 1.42‒17.32; T3 vs. T1), high ALT (OR, 4.95; 95% CI, 1.33‒18.46; T3 vs. T1) and high TSH (OR, 3.78; 95% CI, 1.10‒13.02; T3 vs. T1). The findings of the present study showed that serum PAB levels were directly associated with ferritin, ALT, TC, and TSH levels. This indicates that improvements in blood parameters, especially ferritin and TSH levels, occur by ameliorating oxidative stress in patients with BTM.

The interplay of oxidative stress and inflammation in pediatric patients with nephrotic syndrome

Summary &#x0D; Background: The pathophysiological mechanisms crucial in the development of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in the pediatric population are still not fully understood. This study aims to investigate the synergistic interaction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the pathogenesis of NS. Additionally, one of the objectives of this study is to examine the relationship between hypertension and the degree of oxidative stress and inflammation in patients during the acute phase of the disease. &#x0D; Methods: The study included 33 children, aged 2 to 9 years, with NS. Blood samples were collected during the acute phase and remission. Parameters of oxidative status were determined, including total oxidative status (TOS), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), sulfhydryl groups (-SH), paraoxonase 1 (PON1), and total antioxidant status (TAS) in serum, measured spectrophotometrically. Inflammatory parameters such as pentraxin 3 (PTX3), leptin, programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), and E-cadherin were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).&#x0D; Results: Patients with NS and hypertension had significantly higher levels of AOPP and TOS (p=0.029 and p=0.003, respectively). During the acute phase of the disease, lower activity of -SH and PON1 was observed compared to remission (p&lt;0.001, for both). PTX3 levels were higher, while leptin levels were lower during the acute phase (p&lt;0.001, for both). PTX3 correlated with AOPP and TAS during the acute phase but not in remission (rs=0.42, p=0.027 and rs=0.43, p=0.025, respectively). A negative correlation between AOPP and leptin was observed during the acute phase, which disappeared in remission (rs=-0.42, p=0.028).&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusions: Results of this study show that hypertension influences oxidative stress markers, and decreased antioxidant capacity may contribute to NS development. PTX 3 appears as a potential disease activity marker, indicating a dynamic connection between inflammation and oxidative stress. Leptin may also play a role in oxidative stress in NS. &#x0D; List of abbreviations: AOPP, advanced oxidation protein products; BMI, body mass index; DBP, diastolic blood pressure; ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; HDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol; LDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; total antioxidant status; PAB, prooxidant-antioxidant balance; -SH, sulfhydryl group; SBP, systolic blood pressure; PON 1, paraoxonase; PTX 3, pentraxin 3; PD-L1, programmed cell death ligand 1; TC, total cholesterol; TG, triglyceride; TAS, total antioxidant status; TOS, total oxidation status.&#x0D;

Study of the Effect of CD34+ Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Hematopoietic Cell Microparticles on the Induction of Oxidative Stress in HL-60 Promyelocytic Cells and in Umbilical Cord Blood Mononuclear Cells

Objective Oxidative stress is defined as a disturbance between prooxidant-antioxidant balance and its main cause are molecules or ions such as reactive oxygen species. Antioxidant enzymes have a primary role against oxidative stress, while its effects can be tracked from the oxidation of biological molecules such as fatty acids. Microparticles are small membrane vesicles released from different cell types upon activation or during apoptosis such as platelets, erythrocytes, leucocytes and endothelial cells. Microparticles consist of cytosolic molecules and membrane protein antigens. They can interact with other cells activating multitude functions that are associated with many pathological conditions. The present study aims to investigate a possible correlation between oxidative stress and hematopoietic stem cell derived microparticles in HL-60 and mononuclear cells (MNCs). Methodology The source of MNCs as well as CD34 + microparticles (CD34+MPs) is the umbilical cord blood (UCB). The units (n=17) that were used in this study, were rejected as not appropriate for processing due to low volume. The isolation of the mononuclear cells is accomplished after density gradient centrifugation on lymphoprep. CD34+MPs were isolated from the plasma of UCB after centrifugation and were purified using magnetic bead MACS (Miltenyi Biotec). The number of CD34+ MPs was estimated by flow cytometry using CD34-PE and Annexin V-FITC Abs. Cells are then co-incubated with the CD34+MPs for 24 and 48 hours. Finally, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) as well as the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) produced by lipid peroxidation are measured in the samples using spectrophotometry. Results The results from the measurements that were conducted, displayed a statistically significant increase in the antioxidant activity of the samples in the presence of CD34+MPs in both ΗL60 and MNCs cells after 24 and 48 hours of incubation. Specifically SOD activity was significantly increase in CD34+MPs compared to the control in HL60 after 24 hrs incubation (4.38x10 -1 vs.2.24x10 -1units/mg) and in MNCs (5.51x10 -1 vs. 3.52x10 -1units/mg) The GR activity was increased significantly in HL60 treated with CD34+MPs compared to the control (4.96x10 -2 vs.3.09x10 -2units/mg) as well as in MNCs (5.25x10 -2 vs.3.23x10 -2 units/mg). Similarly the GST ativity increased in the presence of CD34+MPs compared to the control (6.3x10 -3 vs. 2.96x10 -3units/mg) in HL60 and in MNCs (5.34x10 -3 vs.3.28x10 -3units/mg).The MDA concentration produced by lipid peroxidation was increased in HL60 after CD34+MPs treatment compared to the control (5.59 vs.2.84μΜ after 24 hrs and 10.08 vs.3.43 after 48hrs) and in MNCs (6.34 vs.3.04 after 24 hrs and 8.76 vs.3.52μΜ after 48 hrs incubation). Conclusions In this study we have shown the induction of oxidative stress in the leukemic cell line ΗL60 and in the mononuclear cells from cord blood by CD34 +MPs. Therefore the CD34+ microparticles can promote oxidative stress resulting in the activation of inflammation or apoptosis.

Evaluating the effect of the antiPCSK9 vaccine on systemic inflammation and oxidative stress in CFA-challenged albino mice

Abstract Background Besides effective lipid lowering therapy aimed to reduce LDL-C, one should always look at other risk factors that may essentially increase the risk of residual cardiovascular disease risk, including diabetes, thrombotic factors and inflammation. Purpose To find whether the antiPCSK9 vaccine can affect the serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and oxidative stress during acute systemic inflammation. Methods Male albino mice were randomly divided into three groups, including non-treated mice (the sham group), mice treated with Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) (the CFA group), and vaccinated mice treated with CFA (the vaccine group). The vaccine group was subcutaneously immunized with the antiPCSK9 formulation, four times in bi-weekly intervals. To induce inflammation, all mice were subjected to the CFA challenge after the vaccination plan. To determine the efficacy of the antiPCSK9 vaccine in albino mice, plasma antiPCSK9 antibody titer, plasma PCSK9 concentration, and PCSK9/LDLR interaction were assayed. The serum level of high-sensitive CRP (hs-CRP) and oxidative stress status were evaluated by a mouse CRP ELISA kit and the pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB) assay, respectively. Results Upon three boosters, the vaccine induced a high-titer IgG antiPCSK9 antibody in albino mice, which was accompanied with a significant reduction in the plasma level of the free PCSK9 (-24.7% and -28.5% compared with the sham and CFA group, respectively), and the inhibition of PCSK9/LDLR interaction (-27.8% and -29.4% compared with the sham and CFA group, respectively). In addition, the serum level of hs-CRP was significantly increased in the vaccine and CFA groups by 225% and 274%, respectively, when compared with the sham group; however, it was non-significantly decreased (-18%) in the vaccine group in comparison with the CFA group (Figure 1A). Moreover, the PAB values indicated that oxidative stress was significantly increased in the CFA group (by 72.7%) and the vaccine group (by 76%) when compared to the sham group; however, there was no significant difference in the PAB values between the vaccine and CFA groups (Figure 1B). Conclusion Our results indicate that, despite inducing the production of the functional antiPCSK9 antibodies, the antiPCSK9 vaccine failed to significantly reduce the serum hs-CRP and oxidative stress induced in the CFA-challenged albino mice. Figure 1. The effect of the antiPCSK9 vaccine on (A) the serum level of hs-CRP in albino mice and (B) the serum PAB in albino mice. The sham group involved non-treated mice, the CFA group involved the CFA-treated mice, and the vaccine group involved mice who after vaccination were treated with the CFA. Pooling of samples was performed to obtain sufficient sample volume for assay, when needed. The PAB values were expressed in an arbitrary HK (Hamidi-Koliakos). Data are expressed as mean ±SD (10 mice per group). Statistical differences at a p-value &amp;lt;0.05 were considered as significant.Figure 1.

GENETIC ASPECTS OF PROOXIDANT-ANTIOXIDANT BALANCE IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY

The aim of this work is to study the state of the prooxidative-antioxidant balance in patients with diabetic nephropathy depending on the functional state of the kidneys and taking into account the polymorphism of ACE gene. Participants and methods. This study involved 82 patients with type 2 diabetic and nephropathy. The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals. The prooxidant-antioxidant balance of blood serum was calculated as the ratio of total hydroperoxide content to total antioxidant activity. The content of total hydroperoxides and total antioxidant activity were determined by the colorimetric method. Results. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism is associated with the development and progression of acute and chronic kidney diseases. However, the features of antioxidant protection in patients with diabetic nephropathy, who are carriers of different genotypes of this polymorphism, have not been studied. Association analysis using the SNPStats online program has demonstrated that in patients with diabetic nephropathy, the I/I polymorphism is associated with an increase in the concentration of total hydroperoxides in blood serum (difference = 23.62 (6.16-41.08); p = 0.017 — codominant model inheritance; difference = 22.73 (7.70-37.75); p = 0.0042 — recessive model of inheritance). We found a significant increase of total hydroperoxides in diabetic nephropathy patients - carriers of the homozygous I/I genotype of the ACE gene polymorphism, compared to carriers of the D-allele (I/D and D/D genotypes), p=0.03.The highest values of prooxidant-antioxidant balance of blood serum in patients with diabetic nephropathy are noted in carriers of the I/I and I/D genotypes of the ACE gene/ These findings may indicate a negative effect of the I allele on the general state of the prooxidant-antioxidant balance in this category of patients. Conclusions. The analysis of the data we obtained allows us to assume an important influence of the ACE gene polymorphism on the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease due to changes in the prooxidant-antioxidant balance in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Analysis of redox status and HDL subclasses in patients with lymphoma and the associations with FDG-PET/CT findings.

Newer research points to alterations in the plasma redox status and the HDL subclass distributions in cancer. We aimed to assess the redox status and the HDL subclass distributions, lipids, and inflammatory markers in lymphoma patients in order to determine whether they were correlated with changes in FDG-PET/CT scans. At the beginning of this study, redox status, HDL subclasses, lipids, and inflammation biomarkers were determined in 58 patients with lymphoma (Hodgkin lymphoma, n=11 and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, n=47), and these same measurements were reassessed during their ensuing treatment (in 25 patients). Initially, the total oxidation status (TOS), the prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), the OS index (OSI), the total protein sulfhydryl groups (SH-groups), and the advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) were significantly higher in lymphoma patients as compared to healthy subjects, but the total antioxidant status (TAS) was significantly reduced. The PAB had a strong correlation with the CRP and interleukin-6 (rho=0.726, p<0.001; rho=0.386, p=0.003). The correlations between these parameters and the maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) were: PAB, rho=0.335 and p=0.010; SH-groups, rho=0.265 and p=0.044; CRP, rho=0.391 and p=0.002; HDL3b, rho=0.283 and p=0.031; HDL2b, rho= -0.294 and p=0.025; and HDL size, rho= -0.295 and p=0.024. The reductions in SUVmax between two follow-up points were associated with increases in the OSI, TOS, and SH-groups, as well as a reduction in the PAB and TAS. In conclusion, the redox parameters in patients with lymphoma were consistent with FDG-PET/CT findings. Targeting the redox status parameters and the HDL subclasses could be potential strategies in the molecular fight against lymphoma.

Analysis of the Prognostic Potential of Schlafen 11, Programmed Death Ligand 1, and Redox Status in Colorectal Cancer Patients.

The Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) protein has recently emerged as pivotal in DNA damage conditions, with predictive potential for tumor response to cytotoxic chemotherapies. Recent discoveries also showed that the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein can be found on malignant cells, providing an immune evasion mechanism exploited by different tumors. Additionally, excessive generation of free radicals, redox imbalance, and consequential DNA damage can affect intestinal cell homeostasis and lead to neoplastic transformation. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the significance of SLFN11 and PD-L1 proteins and redox status parameters as prognostic biomarkers in CRC patients. This study included a total of 155 CRC patients. SLFN11 and PD-L1 serum levels were measured with ELISA and evaluated based on redox status parameters, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and survival. The following redox status parameters were investigated: spectrophotometrically measured superoxide dismutase (SOD), sulfhydryl (SH) groups, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), and superoxide anion (O2•-). The prooxidative score, antioxidative score, and OXY-SCORE were also calculated. The results showed significantly shorter survival in patients with higher OXY-SCOREs and higher levels of serum SLFN11, while only histopathology-analysis-related factors showed significant prognostic value. OXY-SCORE and SLFN11 levels may harbor prognostic potential in CRC patients.

A STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF SAUNA ON THE OXYGEN TRANSPORT FUNCTION OF YOUNG ATHLETES ENGAGED IN HANDBALL SPORT

The effect of sauna on blood oxygen transport function, lipid peroxidation, prooxidant-antioxidant balance in athletes aged 17-21 engaged in handball sport was studied in the article. Persons involved in the hot air sauna were exposed once a week (20 procedures) for a period of four months. The sauna procedure (at 85-90°C, 10-15% humidity) consisted of two parts: 5 and 10 minutes. In young handball athletes, after taking a dry air bath, an increase in pO2, which is the development of respiratory alkolosis, and a decrease in the combination of hemoglobin and oxygen in venous blood increased the amount of oxygen transported to tissues. After a one-time exposure to the sauna, the development of oxidative stess accelerated (intensification of free radical processes, weakening of antioxidant defenses), and at the end of the course it began to decline. The observed increase in the formation of nitric oxide can play an important role in the modification of oxygen-dependent processes in the body.

CHANGES IN AMINO ACID POOL OF CEREBRAL HEMISPHERES IN RATS WITH SUBTOTAL CEREBRAL ISCHEMIA

Amino acids and their derivatives are involved in synaptic transmission as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. However, some amino acids are involved in the formation of neuromediators. Therefore, the study of amino acid pool in subtotal cerebral ischemia (SCI) is of great importance.&#x0D; The aim of the study is to evaluate the changes in amino acid pool and the role of amino acids in oxidative processes in rats with SCI.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. The experiments were carried out on 16 male outbred white rats (260±20 g) according to Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes, September 22, 2010. &#x0D; Results. When modeling 1-hour partial cerebral ischemia (PCI) by unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery (CCA), no pronounced morphological changes at the microscopic and ultrastructural levels were observed. Also, there were no pronounced changes in the respiratory parameters of the mitochondrial fraction (only a slight decrease in ATP-synthase was noticed). It reflects the safety of the enzymatic complexes of the electron transport chain in the ischemic model, and changes in prooxidant-antioxidant balance of brain homogenates.&#x0D; There was a decrease in sulfur-containing amino acids: methionine by 12 % (p&lt;0.05) and cysteate by 28 % (p&lt;0.05) in the parietal lobe of rats with SCI when compared with the control. Apparently, it was the result of the activation of oxidative stress. In turn, a decrease in cysteate prevents taurine synthesis. However, taurine level did not decrease, possibly due to its long half-life in the brain.&#x0D; Conclusion. In rats with SСI, with 1-hour ischemia, there was a tendency to glycine increase in both studied lobes, whereas excitatory amino acids tended to decrease.

Prognostic Factors Associated With Sleep Duration: Serum Pro-Oxidant/Antioxidant Balance and Superoxide Dismutase 1 as Oxidative Stress Markers and Anxiety/Depression.

Objectives: Sleep is a conserved vital behavior in humans, and insufficient sleep is associated with several disorders. Recent studies have investigated the association of sleep duration, oxidative stress markers, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, we aim to assess the relationship between sleep duration, serum pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB) and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) levels as markers of oxidative stress, anxiety, and depression. Methods: Participants included in our cross-sectional analysis were recruited as part of the MASHAD study (n = 9,184). Nocturnal sleep duration was identified using a self-reported questionnaire, and serum pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB) and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) levels were assessed using methods that have been previously reported. Results: Serum PAB, depression, and anxiety scores were found significantly higher in subjects with very short sleep duration. In an adjusted model using MANOVA regression analysis, serum PAB was significantly higher in the subjects with a very short sleep duration (p: 0.016 in depression and p: 0.002 in anxiety). Conclusion: The present cross-sectional study demonstrates a relationship between sleep duration, oxidative balance, and depression/anxiety, especially in anxiety subjects that might predict each other.

Serum Endocan Levels in Postmenopausal Women with Metabolic Syndrome.

Aim: Studies that explored endocan (as a novel marker of endothelial dysfunction) in relation to metabolic syndrome (MetS) are scarce and show discordant results. Importantly, no study has yet examined serum endocan levels in exclusively postmenopausal women with MetS and free of diabetes. Oxidative stress and inflammation are the key features of MetS and consequently cardiovascular diseases. Hence, we aimed to explore the potential relationship between endocan, oxidative stress [i.e., determined by total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB)], inflammation, and MetS in a cohort of postmenopausal women. Methods: A total of 126 postmenopausal women were included consecutively. MetS was diagnosed following the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Results: Higher serum endocan levels were found in MetS group as compared with MetS-free counterparts [6.03 (3.47-10.37) pg/mL vs. 2.27 (1.49-3.50) pg/mL, P < 0.001]. Endocan showed good discriminatory ability toward MetS [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.809]. Besides age, the inclusion of oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, such as PAB and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), the AUC for discrimination postmenopausal women with MetS from MetS-free women was 0.845. Conclusion: Postmenopausal women with MetS exhibited almost 2.7 times higher serum endocan level as compared with MetS-free middle-aged women. Endocan showed good discriminatory ability toward MetS and could be a diagnostic marker in MetS. Similar results were confirmed when added an age, oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarkers (i.e., PAB and hsCRP) were included for the discrimination of postmenopausal with MetS from MetS-free women.

The Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on Resistance Training Volume, Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance and Muscle Damage Markers Following a Session of Full-Body Resistance Exercise in Resistance-Trained Men Habituated to Caffeine

No previous study has analyzed the impact of caffeine intake on prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage following resistance exercise. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 3 mg/kg of caffeine on the number of repetitions and the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage after a session of full-body resistance exercise. Ten resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine participated in a randomized, crossover and double-blind experiment. Each participant performed two identical resistance training sessions after the intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine or a placebo. Blood was collected before and 60 min after substance intake, just after exercise, 60 minutes after exercise, and 24 hours after testing to evaluate the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione, uric acid) levels of oxidative stress markers (plasma malondialdehyde) and muscle damage markers (creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase). There were no significant differences between placebo and caffeine conditions in the total number of repetitions (180 ± 15 vs 185 ± 14 repetitions, respectively; p = 0.276; Effect size [ES] = 0.34), the total time under tension (757 ± 71 vs 766 ± 56 s, respectively; p = 0.709; ES = 0.14) or the rating of perceived exertion (13.8 ± 2.7 vs 14.7 ± 2.7 a.u., respectively; p = 0.212; ES = 0.32). Reduced glutathione concentration obtained 1 hour after exercise was higher with caffeine than with placebo (p = 0.047), without significant difference between conditions for any other prooxidant-oxidant or muscle damage marker at any time point (p &gt; 0.050 for all). The oral intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine by resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine did not enhance the number of repetitions during a medium load full-body resistance training session to failure and had a minimal impact on the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage. The study was registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT05230303.

The Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on Resistance Training Volume, Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance and Muscle Damage Markers Following a Session of Full-Body Resistance Exercise in Resistance-Trained Men Habituated to Caffeine.

No previous study has analyzed the impact of caffeine intake on prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage following resistance exercise. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 3 mg/kg of caffeine on the number of repetitions and the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage after a session of full-body resistance exercise. Ten resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine participated in a randomized, crossover and double-blind experiment. Each participant performed two identical resistance training sessions after the intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine or a placebo. Blood was collected before and 60 min after substance intake, just after exercise, 60 minutes after exercise, and 24 hours after testing to evaluate the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione, uric acid) levels of oxidative stress markers (plasma malondialdehyde) and muscle damage markers (creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase). There were no significant differences between placebo and caffeine conditions in the total number of repetitions (180 ± 15 vs 185 ± 14 repetitions, respectively; p = 0.276; Effect size [ES] = 0.34), the total time under tension (757 ± 71 vs 766 ± 56 s, respectively; p = 0.709; ES = 0.14) or the rating of perceived exertion (13.8 ± 2.7 vs 14.7 ± 2.7 a.u., respectively; p = 0.212; ES = 0.32). Reduced glutathione concentration obtained 1 hour after exercise was higher with caffeine than with placebo (p = 0.047), without significant difference between conditions for any other prooxidant-oxidant or muscle damage marker at any time point (p > 0.050 for all). The oral intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine by resistance-trained men habituated to caffeine did not enhance the number of repetitions during a medium load full-body resistance training session to failure and had a minimal impact on the prooxidant-antioxidant balance and muscle damage. The study was registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT05230303.