Serum Prooxidant-antioxidant Balance Research Articles

The effect of Fenugreek seed dry extract supplement on glycemic indices, lipid profile, and prooxidant-antioxidant balance in patients with type 2 diabetes: A double-blind randomized clinical trial.

This study aims to determine the effects of fenugreek seed dry extract (FDE) on the glycemic indices, lipid profile, and prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). A double-blind randomized clinical trial was carried out on 54 individuals with T2D. Participants were randomly assigned to a FDE group (received 3 tablets containing 335 mg of FDE daily for 8 weeks) or a placebo group (received tablets containing microcrystalline cellulose). Anthropometric indices, physical activity, diet, fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and PAB were assessed. An eight-week intake of 3 tablets containing 335 mg of FDE decreased serum insulin (P=0.016, P<0.001), HOMA-IR (P=0.009, P<0.001), TG (P<0.001, P=0.001), and PAB (P<0.001, P<0.001) compared to the baseline, in both placebo and intervention groups respectively. TC decreased significantly compared to the baseline in the placebo group (P=0.028), while HDL-C increased in the FDE group compared to the baseline (P<0.001) and placebo group (P=0.014). In the present study even though changes of parameters were more in intervention group compared to the control group, we did not observe any significant differences between studied groups except for HDL-C. However, the effects might become apparent with a higher dosage, longer study duration, or a larger sample size compared to the placebo group. Further clinical trials are needed in this regard.

Oxidative balance and mental health: Exploring the link between prooxidant-antioxidant balance and depression in hypertensive and normotensive individuals, accounting for sex differences

BackgroundExisting studies have suggested a link between oxidative stress levels and depression. Additionally, factors such as gender and conditions like hypertension have been shown to influence oxidative stress. This ten-year follow-up cohort study aims to examine the association between prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and the onset of depression and its symptoms in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals, while considering gender differences. MethodsThe data for this study was obtained from the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorder (MASHAD) study, a cohort study conducted in eastern Iran. Serum PAB levels were measured in 1702 hypertensive and 4096 normotensive individuals aged 35 to 65 years. After ten years, the participants' depression status was evaluated using the Beck questionnaire, and depression symptoms were investigated using the BDI-II structural model, which includes somatic, affective, and cognitive symptoms. ResultThe analysis indicates that in hypertensive male participants, the highest tertile of PAB is associated with an increased risk of depression (β: 1.22, 95 % CI: −0.046, 2.485; P = 0.059) and symptoms of depression, including cognitive (β: 2.937, 95 % CI: 0.511, 5.362; P = 0.018) and somatic (β: 2.654, 95 % CI: 0.37, 4.939; P = 0.023) symptoms. However, there was no significant association between affective symptoms and PAB tertiles. Additionally, there was no significant link between depression and depressive symptoms in female hypertensive and normotensive individuals. ConclusionIn male hypertensive patients, but not in normotensive individuals of both genders and hypertensive women, depression and its associated symptoms, including somatic and cognitive symptoms, are associated with elevated levels of oxidative stress, as evidenced by higher serum PAB values. PAB is not associated with affective symptoms. Future studies should focus on the gender-specific nature of this relationship and work to clarify its underlying mechanisms.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

HIF-1α gene/protein and oxidative stress in patients with colorectal cancer: A pilot study

BackgroundSeveral risk factors such as may enhance the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). These include hypoxia and oxidative stress. We investigated serum pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB) and HIF-1α Gene/protein levels in CRC patients over 3 months. MethodFifty newly diagnosed cases of CRC and 50 healthy individuals were recruited. Tumor sections and marginal healthy tissue, for use as control tissue, were obtained on the day of surgery and HIF-1α mRNA gene expression was determined using Real-Time PCR. Blood from each patient was collected to measure serum PAB using a colorimetric assay, and serum HIF-1α protein concentrations were measured using ELISA method in the patient group before, 24 h after surgery, at the time of discharge, one month, and three months after surgery. The control group samples were obtained on the day of a routine check-up. ResultsThe expression of the HIF-1α gene in the tumor tissue was 7.31 times greater than in healthy tissue margins (p < 0.001) and the level of expression was significantly higher in men than woman (p = 0.006). The mean serum of HIF-1α protein levels and PAB values in patients significantly decreased after surgery up until 3 months (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001; respectively), and were not significantly different between the two genders during follow up (p > 0.05). ConclusionHIF-1α gene expression was significantly higher in tumor tissue than normal marginal tissue and serum HIF-1α protein and PAB levels in patients with CRC were higher preoperatively than the control subjects, and decreased over the 3 months of follow-up.

Association between Pro-oxidant-Antioxidant balance and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A Study on Postmenopausal Women.

Oxidative stress known as a predictive marker for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases could be measured through pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB). The present study aimed to evaluate PAB and its association with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in the serum of postmenopausal women with diabetes mellitus. In this case-control study, 99 diabetic and 100 healthy postmenopausal women without diabetes mellitus were recruited. Serum PAB values, hs-CRP, lipid profile, insulin, and vitamin D levels were measured. Moreover, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β and QUICKI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and body mass index (BMI) were calculated. Serum PAB, hs-CRP, insulin resistance, HOMA-β, QUICKI, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) levels were significantly higher in the postmenopausal women with diabetes mellitus, while there was no significant difference in the total cholesterol (TC), serum insulin, WC, WHR, WHtR and vitamin D levels between the groups. Pearson correlation coefficient showed that HDL-C and insulin levels were directly correlated with serum PAB. Also, there was a significant direct relationship between LDL-C and insulin levels and hs-CRP. There was no meaningful relationship between serum insulin and vitamin D levels and other assessed parameters. Backward logistic regression showed a positive relationship between diabetes mellitus and serum PAB and an inverse relationship with serum HDL levels. Serum PAB, hs-CRP concentration, and lipid profile were significantly different between postmenopausal women with and without diabetes mellitus. These differences may contribute to the development of coronary complications.

Serum pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance in term versus preterm neonates.

The oxidant/antioxidant status balance is a process that begins before birth and premature infants are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress. According to the mechanisms of oxidative stress and lack of study in this field, in this prospective study, we aimed to compare the levels of serum pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB) in preterm versus term babies. This was a prospective cross-sectional study that was performed in Ghaem hospital, a university tertiary hospital, in Mashhad, Iran. The study population included all term and preterm neonates who were admitted to the hospital within birth time. In our study, 324 neonates were included. One hundred ninety-eight neonates were preterm (61.1%) and others were term (38.9%). There was a significant difference between PAB levels in term and preterm neonates. Serum PAB level was significantly lower in preterm neonates rather than in term neonates (21.86 ± 21.01 vs 50.33 ± 31.69; P = .001). There was also a significant negative correlation between PAB levels and gestational age. According to previous investigations, we showed for the first time in our study that PAB is lower in preterm newborns rather than in term ones.

Effects of vitamin D3-fortified low-fat yogurt and milk on serum cytokine levels and anti hsp-27 antibody titer in adults with abdominal obesity: A randomized clinical trial

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of nano-encapsulated 25(OH)D fortified (1500 IU Nano-encapsulated 25(OH)D dairy products on anti-heat shock protein 27 antibody (anti-Hsp27) titers, pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and cytokines concentration in adults with abdominal obesity. This study was part of SUVINA project and designed as a randomized trial. Middle aged adults (n = 306) recruited among students and staff of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences [Iran]. Subjects were randomly assorted into four groups: a low-fat yogurt fortified with 1500 IU 25(OH)D (n = 76), and unfortified yogurt (n = 77), a low-fat milk fortified with 1500 IU 25(OH)D (n = 76), and unfortified milk (n = 77) were followed up for 10 weeks. A total of 289 subjects completed the study. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were measured before and after the ten weeks of intervention. The following biochemical markers were determined: serum pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), 25(OH) D, anti-Hsp27 titers and cytokines concentration, at baseline and at the end of the study. There was a significant difference between serum 25(OH)D concentration and PAB at baseline and the end of intervention with fortified milk and yogurt. After the intervention period, changes between groups of intervention group of both of the milk and yogurt and control group were statistically significant for serum 25(OH)D concentration (p < 0.001) and PAB (p < 0.05). In the group provide with fortified milk, waist circumference was decreased (−2.01 ± 3.85 cm, p < 0.05) and serum 25(OH)D concentration increased significantly (5.02 ± 4.07 ng/ml, p < 0.001). In the group taking the fortified yogurt, serum 25(OH)D status increased by 6.75 ± 3.42 ng/ml (p < 0.001) and PAB decreased by −21.85 ± 48.07 HK (p < 0.05). Our results did not show any significant differences in mean weight between the groups (p > 0.05). Our results showed that after the intervention with 25(OH)D fortified yogurt or milk in obese subjects, serum PAB concentrations decreased and serum 25(OH)D increased significantly. Therefore, fortification of low-fat yogurt and milk with 25(OH)D may be effective in reducing the pro-oxidant anti-oxidant balance with effect thsat are greater than for unfortified dairy products. • The oxidative stress is seen in obese individuals, such as dysregulation in Pro-oxidant-Antioxidant Balance (PAB). • One of the prescibed dietary interventions for fighting against the obesity-induced oxidative stress is the vitamin D supplementation. • Serum PAB concentration was decreased after intervention with vitamin D fortified yogurt in obese subjects.

Serum Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance and hs-CRP in Patients with Clinical and Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Background:Oxidative stress (OS) is caused by an imbalance between prooxidant substance production and antioxidant defense. OS is involved in physiologic interactions in the body and the pathogenesis of various disorders. This study aimed to evaluate serum prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) as a selective prooxidant, antioxidant defense, and acute phase reactant protein in patients with subclinical and clinical hypothyroidism.Methods:This case-control study was conducted in three groups including clinical hypothyroidism (32 patients), subclinical hypothyroidism, (42 cases), and healthy controls (32 individuals). This study was performed in the Endocrine Clinic of Arash Training and Research Hospital, Tehran, 2017. In the study groups, thyroid hormones including T4 and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, PAB, and hs-CRP as inflammatory markers were measured and compared between the groups.Results:Among 106 participants, 95.3% were females, the gender balance was similar across groups and mean age was 30.79 ± 7.65 years. FBG and lipid profile except for cholesterol level were not significantly different between the three study groups. However, cholesterol level in the clinical hypothyroid group was significantly higher than the other two groups. PAB was higher in subclinical hypothyroidism compared to healthy controls after adjustment for age and TSH levels (P value: 0.04) but there was no significant difference in the clinical hypothyroid group in comparison with healthy controls. In addition, there was no significant difference in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) between the three study groups.Conclusions:This study suggests that that subclinical hypothyroidism increases PAB in comparison to healthy control which could indicate OS response in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism, respectively.

The effects of consuming a low-fat yogurt fortified with nano encapsulated vitamin D on serum pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in adults with metabolic syndrome; a randomized control trial

Background and aimThe current study aimed to assess the effect of fortified yogurt with nano-encapsulated vitamin D on serum pro-oxidant anti-oxidant balance (PAB) in adults with or without metabolic syndrome. MethodsIn a quadruple blind clinical trial study, 139 adults with an age range of 30–50 years were randomly selected to receive either 1500 IU nano-encapsulated vitamin D fortified yogurt or placebo for ten weeks. Before and after the intervention period, blood sample was taken to determine the serum levels of vitamin D, pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). The laboratory tests were checked at baseline and at the end of the treatment. ResultsSerum vitamin D increased significantly, from 14.47 ± 6.07 ng/mL to 21.39 ± 6.54 ng/mL (P < 0.001) after ten weeks in the intervention group. Serum hs-CRP and PAB were significantly lower following consumption period in intervention group [1.95(0.4–8.15) g/dL vs. 1.35(0.25–3.62) g/dL; P = 0.013] and (135.19 ± 42.4 HK vs. 115.39 ± 44.69) HK; P = 0.018] respectively. There were no significant differences between the intervention and control groups regarding weight and BMI at the end of the intervention period (p > 0.05). ConclusionLow-fat yogurt fortified with nano-encapsulated vitamin D was found to reduce serum PAB levels in adults with metabolic syndrome. Practical applicationThe findings of the present study indicated that a low-fat yogurt fortified with 1500 IU nano-encapsulated vitamin D for ten weeks, leads to a significant reduction in serum hs-CRP and PAB concentrations highlighted the anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidative effect of vitamin D.

Measuring the Effects of Berberine on Serum Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance in Metabolic Syndrome.

Disturbances in the prooxidant-antioxidant balance can occur in metabolic syndrome. Here, we present a protocol for the setup of a clinical trial of metabolic syndrome patients treated with berberine, a dietary phytochemical of the Berberis vulgaris plant, or placebo. The main aim is to obtain a quick and real-time assessment on the overall redox state based on measurement of the prooxidant-antioxidant balance.

Chitosan self-assembled polymeric nanoparticles for percutaneous delivery of betamethasone in contact dermatitis

Objective The study was performed with an aim to investigate the efficiency of two treatment options in experimental nickel-induced contact dermatitis (CT), with either betamethasone or chitosan cross-linked nano-encapsulated betamethasone lanoline solutions (nano-betamethasone). Methods Male Wistar rats were used. The differences were compared based on lesion visual appearance, skinfold thickness, white blood cell count (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), blood serum prooxidant-antioxidant balance (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS; supersoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, KAT), blood cytokine profile (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-4), and histological examination of affected skin. Results All animals treated with nickel sulfate developed CT and systemic inflammatory response on day 12, which only slightly lessened, if left untreated, on day 20. The therapeutic effectiveness of nano-betamethasone was significantly far superior (p < 0.01) compared to betamethasone. Specifically, the visual appearance of lesion severity of betamethasone vs. nano-betamethasone ± SD was 1.82 ± 0.18 vs. 1.17 ± 0.24 points, skinfold thickness—2.68 ± 0.12 vs. 2.12 ± 0.10 mm, ESR—6.38 ± 0.27 vs. 5.12 ± 0.20 mm/h, WBC—8.47 ± 0.28 vs. 7.17 ± 0.24 109/L, TBARS—1.09 ± 0.04 vs. 0.94 ± 0.02 µmol/L, SOD—3.38 ± 0.26 vs. 4.12 ± 0.18 r.u./L, KAT—11.54 ± 0.14 vs. 10.02 ± 0.19 mkatal/L, respectively. The nano-betamethasone formulation was also more effective (p < 0.01) in increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines level, IL-10 (8.96 ± 0.32 vs. 7.54 ± 0.52 pg/mL) and IL-4 (13.16 ± 0.45 vs. 11.43 ± 0.58 pg/mL); and decreasing in pro-inflammatory TNF-α (20.94 ± 2.30 vs. 26.98 ± 1.16 pg/mL) and IL-1β (19.35 ± 1.28 vs. 24.77 ± 1.75 pg/mL), respectively. These findings were also supported with histological examination. Conclusions Nano-betamethasone may be considered as a more successful transcutaneous therapy for managing contact dermatitis compared to ointments consisting of betamethasone in traditional form.

Association between serum vitamin D, hs-CRP, and prooxidant-antioxidant balance with anthropometric and biochemical parameters in patients with diabetic foot ulcers

Background. Oxidative balance and inflammatory processes affect wound healing phases, and their disruption is connected with delayed wound healing. The present study aimed to assess the association between serum hs-CRP, prooxidant-antioxidant Balance (PAB), and vitamin D with anthropometric and biochemical parameters in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Methods. Thirty-two patients with DFU were included in this study. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the bivariate relationship between serum hs-CRP, PAB, and vitamin D with anthropometric characteristics, glycemic status, lipid profiles, homocysteine level, liver, and kidney function tests. Results. Our data showed a significant positive association between serum hs-CRP and insulin (r = 0.417, P = 0.027), uric acid (r = 0.629, P = 0.001), creatinine (r = 0.431, P = 0.022), erythema (r = 0.36, P = 0.049), and ESR (r = 0.560, P = 0.002). Moreover, hs-CRP negatively correlated with FBS (r = –0.427, P = 0.023), total bilirubin (r = –0.639, P = 0.001), direct bilirubin (r = –0.445, P = 0.033), LDL-cholesterol (r = –0.405, P = –0.032), BMI (r = –0.398, P = 0.033) and HTN (r = –0.450, P = 0.014). Serum PAB value negatively correlated with patients age (r = –0.460, P = 0.027), and BMI (r = –0.442, P = 0.035), and positively associated with insulin level (r = 0.431, P = 0.040). A significant positive association between serum vitamin D with patient sex (r = 0.379, P = 0.047), and QUICKI (r = 0.456, P = 0.029), and negative correlation with HbA1c (r = –0.381, P = 0.045) were also determined. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that serum hs- CRP, PAB, and vitamin D are significantly associated with some anthropometric and biochemical parameters with important clinical value in patients with DFU. Low levels of vitamin D and high levels of hs-CRP and PAB may have an important role in the pathogenesis of DFU.

The Association between Glycemic Control with Oxidant Status Parameters in Type 2 Diabetic Patients.

Purpose:Glycemic control is important in order to avoid LDLs increased susceptibility to oxidation in diabetic patients. This study assess the relationship between diabetes control with serum prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), oxidized LDL cholesterol (oxLDLc), homocysteine and vitamin D levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.Material and methods:This was a cross-sectional study on three groups including 80 subjects as well (WGC) and poor (PGC) glycemic control and 40 healthy subjects. Presence of nephropathy and retinopathy were determined using IDF criteria. HbA1c level was determined with columnar chromatography using BioSystems kit. Serum PAB, homocysteine, oxLDLc and vitamin D levels were measured by the standard tests.Results:There was a significant association between PAB with PGC (P< 0.001), diabetic retinopathy (P< 0.01) and nephropathy (P< 0.01) in type 2 diabetic patients. Moreover, the results showed that vitamin D serum levels was significantly lower in PGC patients (P< 0.01), and diabetic patients with retinopathy (P< 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the vitamin D deficiency can predict the HbA1c variations by 77.7% (β=- 0.775) in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (P<0.001).Conclusions:There was a significant association between prooxidant-antioxidant balance and vitamin D serum levels with diabetic complications. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Serum Pro-oxidant-antioxidant Balance in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus is associated with inflammation and increased oxidative stress. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and serum pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in a large populationbased study. In this cross-sectional study, 7888 individuals were recruited as part of the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorders (MASHAD) cohort study. Participants were divided into three groups based on their serum PAB values (levels < 36.4, 36.4-82.6 and > 82.6 HK). Serum PAB values were measured using a colorimetric method and enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA). Serum PAB in subjects with and without diabetes was reported 76.85 ± 61.07 HK and 69.51 ± 55.50 HK. In subjects with a serum PAB > 82.6 HK the risk of T2DM was 1.2 fold higher in comparison to subjects with a serum PAB < 36.4 HK (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.09 - 1.47, P-value: 0.002). This association remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors in multivariable analysis (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.02 - 1.38, P-value: 0.027). Increased pro-oxidant levels may be a major complication of T2DM in our study subjects and PAB could be an indicator of higher oxidative stress in T2DM patients from northeastern Iran.

Post-infarct morphine treatment reduces apoptosis and myofibroblast density in a rat model of cardiac ischemia-reperfusion

Following myocardial ischemia, the cardiac tissue undergoes both, physiological and pathological changes to compensate the initial loss of function. Long-term continuous adjustments often take a drastic picture indicated by deteriorated ventricular function. Morphine is commonly used for rescuing patients suffering a heart attack. Recent results from our laboratory showed the anti-remodeling potential of morphine. Here, we explored the effect of morphine treatment on gelatinolytic activity, apoptosis and myofibroblast density. The male Sprague – Dawley rats underwent ischemia via ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery and received morphine (3 mg/kg; i.p.) for five consecutive days. Seven days post-MI, morphine led to significant reduction in MMP – 2 activity, apoptotic cell death and fibroblast density. Morphine also reduced MI-induced rise in serum pro-oxidant antioxidant balance and nitrite levels on day 28th following the surgery. These results provide mechanistic insight for morphine – induced anti-remodeling effects.

Evaluation of ABO blood group in subjects with CVD risk factors in a population sample from northeastern Iran

Background and aimsThe ABO blood group system is a genetic polymorphism which can affect the clearance of von Willebrand factor. We aimed to assess the levels of newer biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk; pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and anti-heat-shock protein27 (anti-Hsp27) antibody titers in subjects with various blood groups (A, B, AB and O) and with or without traditional CVD risk factors. MethodsThe cross-sectional study comprised 6910 subjects. Antigen-antibody agglutination was evaluated by the slide test method for identification of ABO blood groups. ResultsAmong three markers, only Serum anti-Hsp27 titers significantly differed between the four blood groups and showed the highest and lowest values in AB and O blood groups (0.26 ± 0.22 and 0.23 ± 0.18 OD, respectively; P < 0.05). Serum anti-Hsp27 was higher in individuals with an AB blood group with metabolic syndrome (MetS), dyslipidemia, hypertension (HTN) and obesity and it was lower in subjects with O blood group; though, two other biomarkers, serum PAB and hs-CRP, were not significantly different between the ABO blood groups. However, they were not different among blood groups in participants with or without diabetes mellitus (DM) (P > 0.05). ConclusionIndividuals with an AB blood group and high levels of anti-Hsp27 antibody titers may be predisposed to CVDs that can be mediated through the traditional CVD risk factors among middle-aged subjects from northeastern Iran. The fact that differences in anti Hsp27 are only found in the subgroup with other risk factors suggest that the difference between ABO blood groups is a consequence rather than a cause.