Reductase Gene Expression Research Articles

Multiple variables influence the finely calibrated antioxidant defenses of Clostridioides difficile.

The obligate anaerobe Clostridioides difficile encodes multiple reductases to detoxify molecular oxygen and reactive oxygen species. Caulat and colleagues have characterized the activity and regulation of four such reductases (L. C. Caulat, A. Lotoux, M. C. Martins, N. Kint, et al., mBio 15:e01591-24, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.01591-24). Each proved critical for clostridial survival in a different range of oxygen concentrations; together, they ameliorate a broad range of oxidative stress levels. Moreover, two previously uncharacterized regulators were found to control reductase gene expression in response to oxidative stress. The genetic repressor Rex and the reductase FdpF are both sensitive to the NAP+:NADH ratio, which is affected by a cell's metabolic state as well as redox activity. While oxygen is known to influence the expression of metabolism genes in C. difficile, the mechanisms for cross-talk between the pathways that respond to oxidative and metabolic stress are not well known. The NADH dependence of Rex and FdpF may represent a newly mapped junction between these pathways.

The Systemic Effect of Ischemia Training and Its Impact on Bone Marrow-Derived Monocytes.

Monocytes are innate immune cells that play a central role in inflammation, an essential component during neovascularization. Our recent publication demonstrated that ischemia training by 24 h unilateral occlusion of the femoral artery (FA) can modify bone marrow-derived monocytes (BM-Mono), allowing them to improve collateral remodeling in a mouse model of hindlimb ischemia. Here, we expand on our previous findings, investigating a potential systemic effect of ischemia training and how this training can impact BM-Mono. BM-Mono from mice exposed to ischemia training (24 h) or Sham (same surgical procedure without femoral artery occlusion-ischemia training) procedures were used as donors in adoptive transfer experiments where recipients were subjected to hindlimb ischemia. Donor cells were divided corresponding to the limb from which they were isolated (left-limb previously subjected to 24 h ischemia and right-contralateral limb). Recipients who received 24 h ischemic-trained monocytes isolated from either limb had remarkable blood flow recovery compared to recipients with Sham monocytes (monocytes isolated from Sham group-no ischemia training). Since these data suggested a systemic effect of ischemic training, circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) were investigated as potential players. EVs were isolated from both groups, 24 h-trained and Sham, and the former showed increased expression of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), which is known to downregulate 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24) gene expression. Since we previously revealed that ischemia training downregulates Dhcr24 in BM-Mono, we incubated EVs from 24 h-trained and Sham groups with wild-type (WT) BM-Mono and demonstrated that WT BM-Mono incubated with 24 h-trained EVs had lower gene expression of Dhcr24 and an HDAC1 inhibitor blunted this effect. Next, we repeated the adoptive transfer experiment using Dhcr24 KO mice as donors of BM-Mono for WT mice subjected to hindlimb ischemia. Recipients who received Dhcr24 KO BM-Mono had greater limb perfusion than those who received WT BM-Mono. Further, we focused on the 24 h-trained monocytes (which previously showed downregulation of Dhcr24 gene expression and higher desmosterol) to test the expression of a few genes downstream of the desmosterol pathway, confirm the Dhcr24 protein level and assess its differentiation in M2-like macrophage phenotype. We found that 24 h-trained BM-Mono had greater expression of key genes in the desmosterol pathway, such as liver X receptors (LXRs) and ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1), and we confirmed low protein expression of Dhcr24. Further, we demonstrated that ischemic-trained BM-Mono polarized towards an anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage phenotype. Finally, we demonstrated that 24 h-trained monocytes adhere less to endothelial cells, and the same pattern was shown by WT BM-Mono treated with Dhcr24 inhibitor. Ischemia training leads to a systemic effect that, at least in part, involves circulating EVs and potential epigenetic modification in BM-Mono. These ischemic-trained BM-Mono demonstrated an anti-inflammatory phenotype towards M2 macrophage differentiation and less ability to adhere to endothelial cells, which is associated with the downregulation of Dhcr24 in those cells. These data together suggest that Dhcr24 might be an important target within monocytes to improve the outcomes of hindlimb ischemia.

Salicylic Acid Treatment Ameliorates Postharvest Quality Deterioration in 'France' Prune (Prunus domestica L. 'Ximei') Fruit by Modulating the Antioxidant System.

The potential of salicylic acid (SA) in delaying postharvest fruit senescence has been extensively documented; nevertheless, its effect on antioxidant activity and quality of 'France' prune fruit is largely unknown. The study investigated the effects of SA (0.5 mM) on postharvest quality deterioration of 'France' prune fruit. Results indicated that SA impeded the increase in respiration rate and weight loss, and mitigated the decrease of soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA) content, firmness, and hue angle. SA sustained the ascorbate-glutathione cycle by inducing the production of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH) and attenuates flavonoids, total phenols, and anthocyanins degradation by inhibiting polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and PdPPO. Moreover, SA significantly improved superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities and gene expression levels, sustained higher 2,2'-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and hydroxyl radical (·OH) inhibition capacity, and impeded the production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide anion (O2•-). Overall, SA improved the antioxidant capacity by inducing the synthesis of defense response-related substances and promoting antioxidant enzyme activities to sustain the storage quality of 'France' prune fruit.

Cultivating resilience: Harnessing pyoverdine-producing Pseudomonas to contrast iron deficiency in cucumber plants

Iron (Fe) deficiency in crops significantly reduces yield, impacting agricultural productivity worldwide. Synthetic Fe chelates are commonly applied as fertilizers to address this issue, but their synthetic nature and prolonged use poses environmental risks. Thus, inoculation of plant growth-promoting bacteria rises as an alternative to enhance Fe uptake in crops while minimizing reliance on synthetic chelates. This study aimed to examine the influence of Pseudomonas RMC4 inoculation and pyoverdine application on cucumber plants cultivated hydroponically under Fe deficiency conditions. Evaluations included the SPAD index, plant biomass, root morphology, Fe-chelate reductase activity, gene expression, and ionomic analysis. Following Fe deficiency, Pseudomonas RMC4 inoculation improved the SPAD index, increased dry weight, enhanced root development, and facilitated Fe acquisition mechanisms, thus, fostering the endogenous resilience of the plant to the limited Fe availability. This improvement was observed with bacterial inoculation or pyoverdine application alongside an insoluble Fe source (ferrihydrite). Overall, the results suggest the beneficial impact of Pseudomonas RMC4 inoculation in alleviating symptoms of Fe deficiency. Future studies will investigate bacterial application under field conditions to assess its potential in replacing synthetic Fe-chelates fertilizers in crop production in favor of more sustainable agriculture.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase levels and gene expression in leukemia

Abstract Leukemia is a neoplastic disease that affects the proliferation of white blood cells and their progenitors. Folic acid deficiency is well-known as a risk factor for leukemia. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme functions in the folate metabolism route, DNA synthesis and methylation processes. Numerous research has been conducted to investigate the link between MTHFR and several human illnesses, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders and neurological issues. The current study aimed to examine MTHFR levels and gene expression in patients with leukemia. The research was carried out between February and October of 2022. There were 130 subjects in total, 80 with leukemia, 45 with AML (Female = 16, Male = 26) with a mean age of (32.32±2.69), and 35 with ALL (Female = 16, Male = 19) with a mean age of (35.794±0.63). The study included 50 healthy subjects as a healthy control group (Female = 28, Male = 22), with an average age of (41.8±1.57) years. MTHFR and Folic acid were measured using ELISA, while MTHFR mRNA was assessed using qPCR in blood and plasma. Folic acid and MTHFR levels were found to be lower in patients with AML and ALL compared to controls (p <0.01). MTHFR gene expression was found to be downregulated in leukemia patients (p <0.01). The findings of the study give support for future research into the effect of folic acid level and supplementation on leukemia-associated pathological outcomes. Folic acid deficiency may affect the folate mediate-one carbon metabolism pathway, as evidenced by changes in the expression of the mRNA MTHFR gene. As a result, more research into the effects of folate status and folic acid supplementation on leukemia is needed to investigate potential therapeutic strategies.

Soil drought during the development of cotton ovule destroyed the antioxidant balance of cotton pistil to hinder the ovule formation

AbstractReproductive failure in cotton caused by drought has been reported to be closely associated with alterations in pistil fertility; however, the mechanism of the effect of drought on pistil fertility in cotton is less studied. We hypothesized that drought would inhibit the ovule formation to alter pistil potential fertility. To address this hypothesis, we conducted a water deficit induction experiment with a cotton cultivar, Dexiamian 1. Results showed that drought damaged the cytological structure of the developing ovules. This resulted in a lower ovule number, finally leading to lower cottonseed number and boll weight. And the decreased ovule number was closely related to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in pistil during ovule development. Further analysis of antioxidant metabolism found that in the enzymatic antioxidant system, drought decreased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), resulting in the accumulation of superoxide anion () and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Regarding the non‐enzymatic antioxidant system, the elevated glutathione reductase gene (GhGR) expression under drought promoted the glutathione (GSH) accumulation; however, the decreased dehydroascorbate reductase gene (GhDHAR2) expression under drought inhibited the conversion of GSH to ascorbic acid (AsA). Although the increased monodehydroascorbate reductase gene (GhMDHAR) expression under drought promoted AsA accumulation, drought‐induced reduced ascorbate peroxidase gene (GhAPX) expression inhibited the reduction of H2O2 by AsA, which ultimately led to higher AsA content and H2O2 content. We conclude that drought impedes the ovule formation by disturbing pistil's antioxidant metabolic homeostasis to destruct the cytological structure of the developing ovules.

Iron limitation indirectly reduces the Escherichia coli torCAD operon expression by a reduction of molybdenum cofactor availability.

The expression of most molybdoenzymes in Escherichia coli has so far been revealed to be regulated by anaerobiosis and requires the presence of iron, based on the necessity of the transcription factor FNR to bind one [4Fe-4S] cluster. One exception is trimethylamine-N-oxide reductase encoded by the torCAD operon, which has been described to be expressed independently from FNR. In contrast to other alternative anaerobic respiratory systems, the expression of the torCAD operon was shown not to be completely repressed by the presence of dioxygen. To date, the basis for the O2-dependent expression of the torCAD operon has been related to the abundance of the transcriptional regulator IscR, which represses the transcription of torS and torT, and is more abundant under aerobic conditions than under anaerobic conditions. In this study, we reinvestigated the regulation of the torCAD operon and its dependence on the presence of iron and identified a novel regulation that depends on the presence of the bis-molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide (bis-MGD) molybdenum cofactor . We confirmed that the torCAD operon is directly regulated by the heme-containing protein TorC and is indirectly regulated by ArcA and by the availability of iron via active FNR and Fur, both regulatory proteins that influence the synthesis of the molybdenum cofactor. Furthermore, we identified a novel regulation mode of torCAD expression that is dependent on cellular levels of bis-MGD and is not used by other bis-MGD-containing enzymes like nitrate reductase.IMPORTANCEIn bacteria, molybdoenzymes are crucial for anaerobic respiration using alternative electron acceptors. FNR is a very important transcription factor that represents the master switch for the expression of target genes in response to anaerobiosis. Only Escherichia coli trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) reductase escapes this regulation by FNR. We identified that the expression of TMAO reductase is regulated by the amount of bis-molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide (bis-MGD) cofactor synthesized by the cell itself, representing a novel regulation pathway for the expression of an operon coding for a molybdoenzyme. Furthermore, TMAO reductase gene expression is indirectly regulated by the presence of iron, which is required for the production of the bis-MGD cofactor in the cell.

Double nitrite autotrophic shunt processes enable highly efficient nitrogen removal in Anammox-mediated biotechnology for seasonal temperature fluctuation tolerance

Anammox, an energy-efficient bioprocess, is gaining growing attention. However, its widespread adoption confronts challenges due to residual nitrate and unstable nitrite supply, especially during seasonal temperature fluctuations. To address this, we developed an innovative Anammox-mediate biotechnology, incorporating a double nitrite autotrophic shunt: partial nitrification (PN/A) and sulfur-driven partial denitrification (SPDN/A). Remarkably, a nitrogen removal efficiency was realized over 183 days, encompassing a significant seasonal temperature decrease (from 25.3℃ to 13.2℃). Functional gene analysis revealed Anammox spontaneously downregulated functional gene expression to allocate core metabolic energy for essential cellular processes towards temperature plunge condition. Interestingly, as seasonal temperature decreased, nitrogen removal contribution of Anammox in SPDN/A exhibited a noticeable upward tendency from 66.4 % to 86.7 %. Enriched Thiobacillus and decreased NO2− reductase gene expression in SPDN/A ensured sustainable nitrite supply for Anammox process, promoting superiority of Candidatus Kuenenia to 7.3 %. However, Anammox groups decreased significantly in PN/A. Divergence in responses towards temperature fluctuation credibly concluded Anammox’s correlation with temperature is not necessarily positive or parallel. Instead, stable provision of NO2− is primary determinant. Comprehensive analysis, integrating functional gene transcription, microbiota synergetic interactions, and kinetics underscores PN/A–SPDN/A’s potential for reliable nitrogen removal, offering a sustainable solution subject to seasonal temperature fluctuation.

Montmorillonite-based edible coating enhances the postharvest quality of sweetpotato by regulating ROS and membrane lipid metabolism

The quality deterioration of sweetpotatoes easily during postharvest storage owing to their high respiration rate and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, an edible coating (MCW) assembled using montmorillonite, chitosan, and whey protein isolate was fabricated to improve the postharvest quality of sweetpotatoes, and the regulatory mechanism of the edible coating treatment on sweetpotato quality has investigated. The results confirmed that edible coating treatment had a positive effect on maintaining the appearance, firmness, colour, and sensory quality of sweetpotatoes, especially in maintaining free water, starch and soluble protein content, inhibiting respiration rate and delaying weight loss of sweetpotatoes stored at 25 °C for 30 d. Meanwhile, this study illuminated the MCW coating regulates ROS metabolism by upregulating superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase gene expression, resulting in lower O2−. content in postharvest sweetpotato. Furthermore, the relative expression of the genes encoding lipoxygenase, phospholipase C, and phospholipase D was downregulated by the edible coating treatment and contributed to lower enzyme activity, electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, which further reduced the degree of membrane lipid peroxidation and effectively maintained the structure of plasma membrane and then protected the cell integrity of sweetpotato. Collectively, this study provides useful information at the transcriptional level that MCW coating can enhance the post-harvest quality of sweetpotatoes by regulating ROS and membrane lipid metabolism.

Nitrous oxide reduction by two partial denitrifying bacteria requires denitrification intermediates that cannot be respired.

Denitrification is a form of anaerobic respiration wherein nitrate (NO3-) is sequentially reduced via nitrite (NO2-), nitric oxide, and nitrous oxide (N2O) to dinitrogen gas (N2) by four reductase enzymes. Partial denitrifying bacteria possess only one or some of these four reductases and use them as independent respiratory modules. However, it is unclear if partial denitrifiers sense and respond to denitrification intermediates outside of their reductase repertoire. Here, we tested the denitrifying capabilities of two purple nonsulfur bacteria, Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA0092 and Rhodobacter capsulatus SB1003. Each had denitrifying capabilities that matched their genome annotation; CGA0092 reduced NO2- to N2, and SB1003 reduced N2O to N2. For each bacterium, N2O reduction could be used both for electron balance during growth on electron-rich organic compounds in light and for energy transformation via respiration in darkness. However, N2O reduction required supplementation with a denitrification intermediate, including those for which there was no associated denitrification enzyme. For CGA0092, NO3- served as a stable, non-catalyzable molecule that was sufficient to activate N2O reduction. Using a β-galactosidase reporter, we found that NO3- acted, at least in part, by stimulating N2O reductase gene expression. In SB1003, NO2- but not NO3- activated N2O reduction, but NO2- was slowly removed, likely by a promiscuous enzyme activity. Our findings reveal that partial denitrifiers can still be subject to regulation by denitrification intermediates that they cannot use.IMPORTANCEDenitrification is a form of microbial respiration wherein nitrate is converted via several nitrogen oxide intermediates into harmless dinitrogen gas. Partial denitrifying bacteria, which individually have some but not all denitrifying enzymes, can achieve complete denitrification as a community by cross-feeding nitrogen oxide intermediates. However, the last intermediate, nitrous oxide (N2O), is a potent greenhouse gas that often escapes, motivating efforts to understand and improve the efficiency of denitrification. Here, we found that at least some partial denitrifying N2O reducers can sense and respond to nitrogen oxide intermediates that they cannot otherwise use. The regulatory effects of nitrogen oxides on partial denitrifiers are thus an important consideration in understanding and applying denitrifying bacterial communities to combat greenhouse gas emissions.

Drought Stress and High Temperature Affect the Antioxidant Metabolism of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Anthers and Reduce Pollen Fertility

Both drought and high temperature can influence the antioxidant metabolism of crop reproductive organs in different ways, affecting the fertility of reproductive organs and yield formation. However, the combined effects of drought stress and high temperature on the crop reproductive physiology have not yet been widely considered. In order to broaden our understanding of this mechanism of influence, a pond experiment was conducted using a cotton variety Yuzaomian 9110 divided into four treatment groups: control (CK), drought stress (DS), high temperature (HT), and drought stress coupled with high temperature (DS+HT). Results showed a significant negative correlation between pollen viability and superoxide anion (O2−) content, as well as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Compared with CK, DS did not alter O2− content in anthers, but HT treatment resulted in higher anther O2−. Compared with single-stress groups, DS+HT further promoted the formation of O2− in anthers, leading to more malondialdehyde in anthers. Moreover, a higher H2O2 content in anthers was found in DS and HT than in CK. DS+HT did not show altered H2O2 content relative to HT treatment, although its H2O2 was higher than in DS. Further analyses of the antioxidant enzyme system showed that DS had no significant effect on superoxide dismutase gene (GhCu/ZnSOD) expression, but HT and DS+HT significantly downregulated its expression. The expression of GhCu/ZnSOD was lower under DS+HT than HT, which might be why O2− content was not altered under DS treatment compared with CK and was higher in DS+HT than HT. DS and HT significantly downregulated the expression of the peroxidase gene (GhPOD) and catalase gene (GhCAT), which should be the main reason for the larger accumulation of H2O2 under drought stress and high-temperature conditions. Compared with single-stress groups, DS+HT had lower expression of GhCAT, resulting in a larger H2O2 content. Regarding the ascorbic acid–glutathione (AsA–GSH) cycle, DS and HT significantly downregulated the expression of monodehydroascorbate reductase gene (GhMDHAR) to hinder the production of AsA and upregulated the expression of ascorbate oxidase gene (GhAAO) to promote the oxidation of AsA, which was theoretically detrimental to AsA accumulation. However, HT downregulated the expression of the ascorbate peroxidase gene (GhAPX), hindering the reduction of H2O2 by AsA, which was the reason for AsA and H2O2 accumulation. Moreover, DS also significantly upregulated the expression of the dehydroascorbate reductase gene (GhDHAR2) to enhance the reduction of dehydroascorbate to form AsA, leading to a higher content of AsA under DS than HT. The combined stress significantly downregulated the expression of GhAAO to inhibit the oxidation of AsA but significantly upregulated the expression of GhMDHAR and GhDHAR2, promoting the AsA production, and downregulated the expression of GhAPX, hindering the reduction of H2O2 by AsA. All these resulted in increased AsA content under combined stresses. In addition, HT significantly downregulated the glutathione reductase gene (GhGR) expression, hindering the reduction of oxidized glutathione (GSSG), which led to the reduction of GSH. However, DS and DS+HT significantly downregulated the glutathione peroxidase gene (GhGPX) expression, resulting in the accumulation of GSH. Overall, compared with single-stress treatments, the effects of DS+HT on cotton pollen fertility and peroxide accumulation were more significant. The effects of DS+HT on the antioxidant enzyme system were mainly caused by high temperature, while the mechanism of abnormal accumulation of AsA and GSH caused by DS+HT was different from those of single-stress groups.

Exogenous glutathione maintains the postharvest quality of mango fruit by modulating the ascorbate-glutathione cycle.

Mango fruit is prone to decay after harvest and premature senescence, which significantly lowers its quality and commercial value. The mango fruit (Mangifera indica L.cv. Guixiang) was treated with 0 (control), 2, 5, and 8 mM of reduced glutathione (GSH) after harvest. The fruit was stored at 25 ± 1 °C for 12 days to observe the changes in the antioxidant capacity and postharvest quality. Compared with the control, the 5 mM GSH treatment significantly decreased the weight loss by 44.0% and 24.4%, total soluble solids content by 25.1% and 4.5%, and soluble sugar content by 19.0% and 27.0%. Conversely, the 5 mM GSH treatment increased the firmness by 25.9% and 30.7% on days 4 and 8, respectively, and the titratable acidity content by 115.1% on day 8. Additionally, the 5 mM GSH treatment decreased the malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide contents and improved the antioxidant capacity of mango fruit by increasing the superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities and upregulating the expression of the encoding genes. Meanwhile, the higher levels of monodehydroascorbate reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase, and glutathione reductase enzyme activities and gene expressions accelerated the AsA-GSH cycle, thereby increasing the accumulation of AsA and GSH and maintaining the redox balance. Overall, the experimental results suggest that 5 mM GSH maintains high antioxidant capacity and postharvest quality of mangoes and can use as an effective preservation technique for postharvest mangoes.

Effect of dietary approaches to stop hypertension, and standard diets with and without curcumin on interleukin-1 alpha, 5-alpha reductase gene expressions, and androgenic and glycemic profile in polycystic ovary syndrome women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment: A study protocol.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases with major reproductive and metabolic complications with an impact on public health. Hyperandrogenism and chronic inflammation have been suggested as the leading cause of pathophysiology and clinical manifestations associated with PCOS. It seems that the altered expression of genes involved in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokine and androgens contribute to the promotion of PCOS. This trial aims to determine the effects of dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) and standard diets with and without curcumin supplementation on the gene expression of interleukin -1 alpha(IL1α), 5α reductase and androgenic and glycemic profile among PCOS patients, who are candidates for in vitro fertilization. 96 infertile women with PCOS, aged 18-40 yr, will participate in this randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Based on treatment conditions and body mass index, the participants will be randomly divided into 4 equal groups using a randomized block design. They will receive a DASH or standard diet containing 52% carbohydrate, 18% protein, and 30% total fat, with the same prescribed sodium, plus 500 mg twice daily curcumin or placebo for 12 wk. The mRNA expression of IL-1, 5 reductase, and androgenic and glycemic profiles will be measured at baseline and at the end of the study. Concomitant administration of DASH diet and curcumin supplementation may reduce IL-1, 5 reductase gene expressions, and improve glycemic and androgenic profiles.

Investigation on the Biological Safety and Activity of a Gluconolactone-Based Lotion for Dermocosmetic Application.

(1) Background: Cosmeceuticals are formulas enriched with active ingredients that exert efficacy on different skin molecular targets. (2) Methods: Cell viability and the absence of potential irritant risk were evaluated on keratinocytes (HaCaT), fibroblasts (NHDF), adipocytes (3T3-L1), sebocytes (PCi-SEB_CAU) and reconstructed human epidermis (RHE), respectively. Several treatments were performed to evaluate the ability of the lotion to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, stimulate the differentiation of keratinocytes and reduce the number of senescent cells following UVB stimulation. In addition, the modulation of genes involved in the production, storage and accumulation of sebum were investigated. (3) Results: The results obtained demonstrated the biosafety of the formula in all cell lines tested. The 24-h treatment with non-cytotoxic concentrations determined an increase in the expression of the collagen (COL1A1), elastin (ELN) and involucrin (IVL) genes, while a reduction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) gene expression and a reduction of SA-βgal-positive cells were found. Moreover, the treatment did not interfere with normal steroid 5-alpha reductase (5RDA3) gene expression levels. (4) Conclusions: Data collected demonstrated the biosafety of the lotion, the non-comedogenic property and a multi targets anti-aging effect. In particular, data collected on the booster lotion make it a valid way to counteract the pore dilatation aging related.

A Sociogenomic Analysis of Chronic Wounds

Background/Objective: 8.2 million US patients are affected with chronic wounds, with costs ranging from $28.1-$96.8 billion. Increasing healthcare costs, population age, and chronic condition incidences pose immense threats to the healthcare system and patients struck with the burden of chronic wounds. A sociogenomic approach to investigating mechanisms of chronic wound formation at the genomic level could provide a better understanding of how environmental factors and social demographics impact the development of such wounds. Our goal was to explore possible associations between outcomes of chronic wounds, healing status, genotype, gene expression, and the role of social demographics.
 Experimental Design: DNA and RNA were isolated from blood samples obtained from 51 patients with chronic wounds. Participant demographics and health information was collected for analysis. iPLEX® and MassARRAY® systems were used to genotype ten SNPs of seven genes involved in wound healing. Quantification of gene expression was performed via RT-qPCR. T-test analysis, ANOVA, and Fisher’s Exact test were used for statistical analysis of results.
 Results: Significant relationships were discovered between increased VDR expression with heart disease, peripheral vascular disease (PVD), and hypercholesterolemia/hyperlipidemia. TT genotype of rs1544410 present in vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene was associated with increased VDR expression as compared to CT genotype. Furthermore, increased methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene expression was associated with PVD. Finally, the CC genotype of rs2274976 present in MTHFR gene was associated with better wound outcome than the CT genotype.
 Conclusion/Impact: This study is one of the first known to investigate the impact of environmental factors and demographics on gene expression in patients with chronic wounds. Our results indicate social environment and genotype can play a significant role in patient gene expression and wound outcome. Future studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to investigate additional demographic data and expression of other genes involved in wound healing.
 Acknowledgements: This project was funded, in part, with support from the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute funded, in part by UL1TR002529 from the National Institutes of Health. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. In addition, this project was completed with support from the Center for Medical Genomics at Indiana University School of Medicine in processing genotypes using iPLEX® and MassARRAY® systems.

Achievement and microbial profiles of non-aerated partial nitrification in photo sequencing batch and continuous flow reactors

Nitrite accumulation could be achieved in algal-bacterial consortia without energy-intensive aeration, which could be a sustainable alternative for wastewater treatment. However, few studies focused on the achievement of partial nitrification in different non-aerated algal-bacterial systems and the related microbial mechanisms are still unclear. Here two different algal-bacterial systems (photo-sequencing batch reactor (PSBR) and up-flow sludge blanket bioreactor (PUSB)) were operated for anaerobic effluent treatment and the non-aerated partial nitrification was evaluated. Results showed that the nitrite accumulation rates in the PSBR and PUSB were 92.70 ± 7.81 % and 81.44 ± 11.28 %, respectively, which was constant with microbial activities. Denser algal-bacterial granules were observed in the PSBR, whereas looser algal-bacterial flocs were in the PUSB. Phormidium and Leptolyngbya (i.e., two filamentous cyanobacteria) were enriched in the PSBR and PUSB, respectively, and the higher enrichment of Nitrosomonas and complete inhibition of Nitrospira contributed to better partial nitrification of PSBR. The PUSB had more intensive interspecific interactions and more cooperative behavior in microbial network. Metagenomic analysis revealed that partial denitrification might partially contribute to the nitrite accumulation in the PUSB owing to higher nitrate reductase gene expressions. Overall, this study advances our understandings of the partial nitrification process and nitrite accumulation by algal-bacterial consortia.

Biochar-derived persistent free radicals and reactive oxygen species reduce the potential of biochar to mitigate soil N2O emissions by inhibiting nosZ

Biochar amendment has been proven to generally reduce soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of biochar-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) on soil N2O emissions are still unclear. Thus, we firstly weakened the intensities of persistent free radicals (PFRs) within biochar using triethanolamine (TEA) as a quencher, and then used soil incubation methods to compare the potentials of TEA-quenched and un-quenched biochar in mitigating soil N2O emissions. The TEA-quenched biochar generated less hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and hydroxyl radical (•OH), while having a higher soil N2O emission mitigation potential, than the un-quenched biochar. The N2O emissions and the N2O/(N2O + N2) ratio were significantly, positively, correlated with the generated H2O2 and •OH contents. These results demonstrated that biochar-derived ROS weakened biochar's mitigation of soil N2O emissions. The specific mechanisms of biochar-derived ROS on soil N2O emissions were further explored by a ROS scavenging experiment. It was found that scavenging H2O2 by catalase efficiently hindered the generation of •OH, resulting in decreases in N2O emissions and the N2O/(N2O + N2) ratio. Meanwhile, biochar-derived ROS exhibited a more severe inhibition on N2O reductase gene (nosZ) expression than that on the expression of genes responsible for N2O production (nirK and nirS), indicating that biochar-derived ROS weakened biochar's mitigation of soil N2O emissions by inhibiting microbial N2O reduction. Our results imply that controlling the content of biochar-derived ROS is a promising strategy to maximize biochar's potential for mitigating soil N2O emission.

Rhamnetin decreases the expression of HMG-CoA reductase gene and increases LDL receptor in HepG2 cells

Context: Rhamnetin is a naturally occurring methylated derivative of quercetin. This flavonoid is abundant in Syzygium aromaticum, Coriandrum sativum Prunus cerasus, and Rhamnus spp. Aims: To evaluate the effects of rhamnetin on HMG-CoA reductase and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene and protein expressions in the HepG2 hepatoma cell line. Methods: The expression of HMG-CoA reductase and LDLR genes and proteins were studied in HepG2 liver cancer cell line by PCR, Western blot, and indirect ELISA, as well as their antioxidant activity. Results: Rhamnetin was non-toxic up to 200 μM on HepG2 at 24, 48, and 72 h. Rhamnetin (25 µM) upregulated LDLR gene expression by 1.66 folds compared to 3.12 folds exerted by the well-known hypocholesterolemic drug simvastatin. Rhamnetin (100 µM) increased the expression of LDLR protein at the cell membrane, while the other concentrations produced no significant change from the control (vehicle-treated). In HepG2 cell lysate, LDLR was increased by 50 µM of rhamnetin. Also, rhamnetin increased SOD activity significantly by 100.98, 86.28, and 100.98% by the concentrations 25, 50, and 100 µM, respectively. Using the same concentrations, rhamnetin reduced H2O2 levels by 50, 67, and 76.34%, respectively. Conclusions: This study demonstrated for the first time that rhamnetin reduced HMG-CoA reductase gene expression and increased LDLR in HepG2 cells.

Effects of blueberry anthocyanins on perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in dugesia japonica

The effects of blueberry anthocyanins against perfluorooctane sulfonate on antioxidant-related gene expression levels, antioxidase activities, malondialdehyde content, glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratios, mitochondrial metabolic enzyme activities, and mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening rates were examined in the planarian Dugesia japonica. Glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase gene expression levels were up-regulated on day 1 and then down-regulated following exposure to 5 mg/L perfluorooctane sulfonate with those of the control. The activities of the three corresponding enzymes were inhibited by perfluorooctane sulfonate and activated by anthocyanins. Malondialdehyde contents and mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening rates as well as the activities of mitochondrial metabolic enzymes, also increased and the glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio decreased. Anthocyanin treatments have an alleviating effect on the disorder caused by perfluorooctane sulfonate.

Control of reservoir souring by incomplete nitrate reduction in Indian oil fields

Reservoir souring is the increased sulfide concentration in oil production fluid, and it's the major problem faced during the secondary oil recovery process. Recently, nitrate injection emerged as a souring control strategy by inhibiting sulfate-reducing bacteria that cause souring. However, this strategy showed limited success due to the complete reduction of nitrate into nitrogen. The present study revealed that souring could be controlled by incomplete reduction of nitrate to nitrite at high temperatures (>55 °C) in Indian oil fields. Present study showed that, at 55 °C incomplete nitrate reduction led to the accumulation of nitrite and control of souring. This incomplete nitrate reduction was due to under-expression of the nitrite reductase gene at 55 °C. At 37 °C, nitrate and nitrite reductase genes were expressed consecutively, but at 55 °C, nitrite reductase gene expression decreased significantly and led to nitrite accumulation.