Spleen Index Research Articles

Phillygenin Alleviates Arthritis through the Inhibition of the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Ferroptosis by AMPK.

We investigated the potential arthritis-inducing effects of Phillygenin and its underlying mechanisms. RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide to induce inflammation. Phillygenin was found to reduce arthritis score, histopathological changes, paw edema, spleen index, and ALP levels in a dose-dependent manner in a model of arthritis. Additionally, Phillygenin was able to decrease levels of inflammation markers in serum samples of mice with arthritis and also inhibited inflammation markers in the cell supernatant of an in vitro model of arthritis. Phillygenin increased cell viability and JC-1 disaggregation, enhanced calcien-AM/CoCl2, reduced LDH activity levels and IL-1a levels, and inhibited Calcein/PI levels and iron concentration in an in vitro model. Phillygenin was also found to reduce ROS-induced oxidative stress and Ferroptosis, and suppress the NLRP3 inflammasome in both in vivo and in vitro models through AMPK. In the in vivo model, Phillygenin was observed to interact with AMPK protein. These findings suggest that Phillygenin may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing arthritis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and Ferroptosis through AMPK. This indicates that Phillygenin could have disease-modifying effects on arthritis.

Ningxiang pigderived Enterococcus hirae regulates the inflammatory function and enhances the protection of piglets against ETEC challenge.

This study investigated the effects of Enterococcus hirae (Eh) derived from Ningxiang pigs on growth performance, diarrhea incidence, and immune responses in ETEC-challenged piglets. The results showed that compared to the CON group, ETEC infection significantly reduced the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI), increased rectal temperature, and resulted in a diarrhea rate of up to 24%. Additionally, ETEC infection significantly increased the spleen index and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the spleen, serum and intestine, with decreasing serum sIgA and colonic SCFAs of piglets. Compared to the ETEC group, orally Eh significantly increased ADFI in ETEC-infected piglets, reduced the diarrhea rate to 11.53%, reduced the spleen index and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the spleen, serum and intestine, with decreasing serum sIgA and colonic SCFAs of ETEC-infected piglets. Furthermore, correlation analysis revealed that the levels of SCFAs (particularly acetate) were significantly negatively correlated with the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in colonic and splenic tissues, suggesting that acetate may be a key metabolite in the anti-inflammatory effects of Eh. These results indicate that Eh can enhance the protection of piglets against ETEC K88 via intestine-acetate-spleen axis, thereby alleviating diarrhea and improving growth performance in piglets.

Li-Hong Tang alleviates dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis by regulating NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway and gut microbiota.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is marked by recurring inflammation. Existing treatments are ineffective and may have toxic side effects. Thus, new therapeutic agents are urgently needed. We studied the botanical formula "Li-Hong Tang (LHT)", which contains two main ingredients, Salvia plebeia R. Br and Rhodiola crenulata (Hook. f. et Thoms.) H. Ohba. In this study, we aimed to identify the effects of LHT on UC and explore its potential mechanism. LHT was analyzed using a mass spectrometer (MS). DSS at a dose of 2.5% was utilized to develop UC in mice. The administered groups received low, medium, and high dosages (0.32g/kg, 0.64g/kg, and 1.28g/kg) of LHT and the positive medication, sulfasalazine (0.2g/kg), respectively. Body weight, disease activity index (DAI) score, colon length, spleen index, serum myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and inflammatory factor concentrations were monitored. The expression of NRF2 and HO-1 in colonic tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. 16S rDNA sequencing was employed to investigate alterations in the gut microbiota of the mice, aiming to elucidate the extent of LHT's impact. LHT may ameliorate DSS-induced colitis in mice by lowering inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, restoring the intestinal barrier, and influencing the NRF2/HO-1 pathway. Moreover, LHT treatment exhibited a regulatory effect on the gut microbiota, characterized by elevated levels of Patescibacteria, Verrucomicrobiota, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Lactobacillus, and Ligilactobacillus levels while decreasing Oscillibacter and Colidextribacter levels. Further study indicated that MPO, NO, and inflammatory factors were positively correlated with Oscillibacter, Colidextribacter, Escherichia-Shigella, Anaerostines, and negatively with Lactobacillus, Clostridiales_unclassified, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, and Patescibacteria. Furthermore, colony network analysis revealed that Lactobacillus was negatively associated with Oscillibacter and Colidextribacter, whereas Oscillibacter was positively related to Colidextribacter. LHT protects against DSS-induced mice by inhibiting the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and mucosal injury. The protective role may involve regulating the NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway and gut microbiota.

Yishen Tongbi decoction attenuates inflammation and bone destruction in rheumatoid arthritis by regulating JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway.

Yishen-Tongbi Decoction (YSTB), a traditional Chinese prescription, has been used to improve syndromes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for many years. Previous research has shown that YSTB has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of the anti-RA effects of YSTB remains unclear. The purpose of this research was to investigate how YSTB affected mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and RAW264.7 cells induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The findings show that YSTB could significantly improve the clinical arthritic symptoms of CIA mice (mitigate paw swelling, arthritis score, thymus and spleen indices, augment body weight), downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and IL-17, while upregulated the level of anti-inflammatory like IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Meanwhile, YSTB inhibits bone erosion and reduces inflammatory cell infiltration, synovial proliferation, and joint destruction in CIA mice. In addition, we found that YSTB was able to suppress the LPS-induced inflammation of RAW264.7 cells, which was ascribed to the suppression of nitric oxide (NO) production and reactive oxygen species formation (ROS). YSTB also inhibited the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase and reduced the releases of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, the phosphorylation expression of JAK2, JAK3, STAT3, p38, ERK and p65 protein could be suppressed by YSTB, while the expression of SOCS3 could be activated. Taken together, YSTB possesses anti-inflammatory and prevention bone destruction effects in RA disease by regulating the JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 signaling pathway.

Influence of 19-Nortestosterone on the Content of Steroid Hormones, Hematological Indicators and Individual Links of Metabolism in Tissues of Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The influence of different concentrations of the synthetic steroid 19-nortestosterone on the body mass and indexes of internal organs, hematological parameters, testosterone, progesterone and cortisol content, certain links of metabolic processes and enzymatic activity in the tissues of carp (<i>Cyprinus carpio</i> L.) was studied. Under the short-term impact of 50 μg/dm<sup>3</sup>, 19-nortestosterone increased the total protein and albumins content, creatine phosphokinase and aspartate aminotransferase activity, decreased the inorganic phosphorus and iron content, alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase activity in the blood plasma and did not affect the respiratory rate, external body features, the mass of hepatopancreas and spleen and their indexes, hematological indicators, the steroid hormones concentration in blood plasma and hepatopancreas, content of glucose, triglycerides, creatinine, calcium, inorganic phosphorus in blood plasma. Under 200 μg/dm<sup>3</sup>, the respiratory rate and ESR increased, as well as the cortisol and testosterone content in blood plasma and hepatopancreas, whereas progesterone in blood plasma decreased and in hepatopancreas increased. High concentration of 19-nortestosterone caused elevated protein and albumin content, creatine phosphokinase and aspartate aminotransferase in the blood plasma activity, whereas glucose, inorganic phosphorus, iron, alkaline phosphatase activity was lower. The 19-nortestosterone did not affect the mass and index of hepatopancreas and spleen, hemoglobin concentration, the erythrocytes, leukocytes and lymphocytes number and ratio of eosinophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes, as well as triglycerides, creatinine, calcium content, lactate dehydrogenase and alanine aminotransferase activity in blood plasma. The conclusion was made about the carp's ability to adapt to low concentrations of the synthetic steroid 19-nortestosterone under its short-term impact by modification of the certain links of metabolism and enzymatic activity. High concentration of 19-nortestosterone significantly affected the hormonal status and metabolism of carp.

Особенности морфофизиологических показателей сони лесной (Gliridae, Rodentia) на Центральном Кавказе

Intrapopulation variability of internal features of the forest dormouse (Dryomys nitedula Pallas, 1778) was studied in the conditions of the northern macroslope of the Central Caucasus. The analysis of indices of internal organs (taking into account the sex) showed that five of the six indices studied are higher in females than in males (no significant differences were revealed, $t<2$). The indices of adrenal glands and spleen turned out the highest variability.

Effects of Jianpi Huayu Decoction on Th1/Th2 Immune Balance in Mice With Liver Cancer-Related Fatigue via the IL- 27/STAT1 Signaling Pathway.

Objective: The Chinese medicine Jianpi-Huayu decoction (, JPHY) can alleviate cancer-related fatigue in patients with liver cancer. However, its mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we used BALB/c mice with liver cancer model to investigate whether JPHY alleviates cancer-related fatigue by regulating Th1/Th2 immune balance; and the possible association with the IL-27/STAT1 signaling pathway. Methods: We established a mouse model of liver cancer fatigue. Mice were gavaged with physiological saline, low, medium, or high concentrations of JPHY respectively; and intraperitoneal injection of fludarabine (STAT1 pathway inhibitor) with JPHY for 21 days. We recorded the general condition of the mice, and assessed fatigue using scoring criteria and Exhausted Swimming Test. We calculated the spleen and thymus indices, performed H&E staining and immunohistochemical analysis on liver tumor tissues to observe the tumor proliferation marker ki67. We quantified the secretion levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 produced by Th1 cells in serum and splenic lymphocytes, as well as the secretion of IL-4, IL-10 by Th2 cells, and IL-27 in the signaling pathway through ELISA analysis. We evaluated the expression levels of p-STAT1 and STAT1 in spleen tissues using Western blot analysis. Results: JPHY exhibits a therapeutic effect on hepatocellular carcinoma-induced splenomegaly in murine models by upregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and IL-2 and downregulating the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10. Moreover, JPHY suppresses ki67 expression, reduces tumor-related inflammation infiltration, and ameliorates cancer-associated fatigue. Additionally, the expression of phosphorylated protein p-STAT1 is down-regulated. Conclusion: JPHY may improve the Th1/Th2 immune balance through its anti-inflammatory effects and promotion of IL-27-induced STAT1 phosphorylation, thereby alleviating fatigue in mice with liver cancer.

Liujunzi Decoction treats 4NQO-induced esophageal cancer in mice: a study based on serum metabolomics

This study aims to explore the mechanism of Liujunzi Decoction in the treatment of 4-nitroquinoline-N-oxide(4NQO)-induced esophageal cancer in mice. One hundred mice of 35-45 days were randomized into blank, model, and low-, medium-, and high-concentration(18.2, 36.4, and 54.6 g·kg~(-1), respectively) Liujunzi Decoction groups. The mice in other groups except the blank group had free access to the water containing 100 μg·mL~(-1) 4NQO for 16 weeks for the modeling of esophageal cancer. The mice in the Liujunzi Decoction groups were fed with the diets supplemented with corresponding concentrations of Liujunzi Decoction. The body weight and organ weights were weighed for the calculation of organ indexes. The pathological changes of the esophageal tissue were observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining. Ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(UPLC-MS/MS) was employed to collect metabolites from mouse serum samples, screen out potential biomarkers, and predict related metabolic pathways. Compared with the blank group, the model group showed decreased spleen and stomach indexes and increased lung, esophagus, and kidney indexes. Compared with the model group, Liujunzi Decoction groups had no significant changes in the organ indexes. The HE staining results showed that Liujunzi Decoction inhibited the invasive growth and cancerization of the esophageal cancer cells. A total of 9 potential biomarkers of Liujunzi Decoction in treating esophageal cancer were screened out in this study, which were urocanic acid, 1-oleoylglycerophosphoserine, 11-deoxy prostaglandin E1, Leu-Glu-Lys-Glu,(±) 4-hydroxy-5E,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z-docosahexaenoic acid, ureidosuccinic acid,(2R)-2,4-dihydroxy-3,3-dimethylbutanoic acid, kynurenic acid, and bicyclo prostaglandin E2, which were mainly involved in histidine, pyrimidine, alanine, aspartate, glutamate, pantothenate and tryptophan metabolism and coenzyme A biosynthesis. In summary, Liujunzi Decoction may exert the therapeutic effect on the 4NQO-induced esophageal cancer in mice by regu-lating the amino acid metabolism, inflammation, and immune function.

Effects of a novel synbiotics-enzyme complex as a replacement for antibiotics on growth performance, slaughter and meat characteristics, immune organ index, and intestinal morphology of broilers.

Antibiotic use in broilers is being discouraged globally due to the challenges it poses. This study was conducted to assess the effects of supplementing broilers with a Symbiotic-Enzyme complex (SEC) containing prebiotics (mannose oligosaccharides), probiotics (Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus subtilis), and enzymes (glucose oxidase, and α-galactosidase) as an alternative to antibiotics on growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, mortality, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology and immune organ indexes. A total of 864 mixed-sex 1-day-old arbor acres (AA+) broilers were allocated to 8 experimental groups replicated 9 times with 12 chickens per replicate. These included 6 treatment groups with SEC inclusion levels of 0.025, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10%, respectively, and two control groups: a negative control group containing a basal diet only and the positive control group (Antibiotics group) containing a basal diet and antibiotic oxytetracycline added at 0.2%. Growth performance was measured on day 21 and 42, and the mortality, carcass, meat quality traits, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology, and organ size indexes were measured on day 42. The results indicated that supplementing broilers with 0.1% SEC resulted in insignificant (P > 0.05) increases in average daily feed intake (ADFI), significant (P < 0.05) increases in the average daily gains (ADG), and significant (P < 0.05) reduction in a feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in all the phases compared to the control and antibiotics groups. Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC inclusion levels also significantly (P < 0.05) increased the body slope length, chest width, chest depth, keel length, and shank circumference. Furthermore, broilers on diets containing 0.1% SEC inclusion level also had significantly (P < 0.05) higher dressed, semi-evisceration, evisceration, and breast muscle percentages. Including SEC at 0.1% also significantly (P < 0.05) increased villus height and villus-to-crypt ratio (V/C) but reduced crypt depth in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum compared to the control groups. SEC inclusion at 0.1% significantly (P < 0.05) increased the spleen, bursal, and thymus indexes, respectively. Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC can be used as an antibiotic alternative because it increases the F/G, improves the carcass and meat quality, increases the body conformation, improves the small intestines' functions, and immune organ size.

The protective effect of traditional Chinese medicine Jinteng Qingbi granules on rats with rheumatoid arthritis.

Introduction: Jinteng Qingbi granules (JTQBG), a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, are widely used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to their satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of JTQBG against RA and elucidates its potential molecular mechanisms. Methods: A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was utilized, and JTQBG (1.25, 2.5, 5g/kg/day) or methotrexate (MTX, 1mg/kg/week) was orally administered. The rats' weight, arthritis index (AI), and paw volume were measured weekly. Synovial hyperplasia of the joints was detected using a small animal ultrasound imaging system. Joint destruction was assessed using an X-ray imaging system. Histopathological examinations were performed using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Saffron-O and fast green staining. Serum inflammatory cytokines were detected using ELISA. Furthermore, 4D label-free quantitative proteomics of synovial tissues and non-targeted metabolomics of blood serum were conducted to analyze the molecular mechanisms. Results: JTQBG exerted a significant therapeutic effect on CIA rats by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration, synovial hyperplasia, cartilage erosion, and bone destruction. It also decreased the spleen index, inhibited hyperplasia of the white pulp, and decreased the serum levels of IL-1β and IL-18. Proteomics analysis identified 367 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between the Model and Normal groups, and 71 DEPs between the JTQBG and Model groups. These DEPs were significantly enriched in the NF-κB pathway. 11 DEPs were significantly reversed after treatment with JTQBG. Western blot results further validated the expression levels of Nfkb1, Pdk1, and Pecam1, and analyzed the expression levels of p-IKK, p-IκBα, and IκBα. The therapeutic efficacy of JTQBG was partly attributed to the suppression of the NF-κB pathway in synovial tissues. Serum metabolomics identified 17 potential biomarkers for JTQBG treatment of CIA rats, which were closely related to Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, Tryptophan metabolism, Ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, Arginine metabolism, and Inositol phosphate metabolism. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that JTQBG was effective against RA by alleviating synovial inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and joint destruction. The anti-RA properties of JTQBG were likely attributed to the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway and the regulation of serum metabolite disorders.

Study on the mechanism of mitigating radiation damage by improving the hematopoietic system and intestinal barrier with Tenebrio molitor peptides.

Research on plant and animal peptides has garnered significant attention, but there is a lack of studies on the functional properties of Tenebrio molitor peptides, particularly in relation to their potential mitigating effect on radiation damage and the underlying mechanisms. This study aims to explore the protective effects of Tenebrio molitor peptides against radiation-induced damage. Mice were divided into five groups: normal, radiation model, and low-, medium-, and high-dose Tenebrio molitor peptide (TMP) groups (0.15 g per kg BW, 0.30 g per kg BW, and 0.60 g per kg BW). Various parameters such as blood cell counts, bone marrow DNA content, immune organ indices, serum levels of D-lactic acid, diamine oxidase (DAO), endotoxin (LPS), and inflammatory factors were assessed at 3 and 15 days post gamma irradiation. Additionally, the intestinal tissue morphology was examined through H&E staining, RT-qPCR experiments were conducted to analyze the expression of inflammatory factors in the intestine, and immunohistochemistry was utilized to evaluate the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Occludin in the intestine. The findings revealed that high-dose TMP significantly enhanced the hematopoietic system function in mice post radiation exposure, leading to increased spleen index, thymus index, blood cell counts, and bone marrow DNA production (p < 0.05). Moreover, TMP improved the intestinal barrier integrity and reduced the intestinal permeability. Mechanistic insights suggested that these peptides may safeguard intestinal barrier function by downregulating the gene expression of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, while upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Occludin (p < 0.05). Overall, supplementation with TMP mitigates radiation-induced intestinal damage by enhancing the hematopoietic system and the intestinal barrier, offering valuable insights for further investigations into the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of these peptides against ionizing radiation.

Danggui Buxue decoction regulates the immune function and intestinal microbiota of cyclophosphamide induced immunosuppressed mice.

Danggui Buxue decoction (DBD) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the combination of Astragali Radix (AR) and Angelica sinensis (AS) is a classic prescription of tonifying qi and enriching blood. DBD has the functions of hematopoietic, immune enhancement and inflammation inhibition, usually used to treat qi and blood deficiency symptoms. Cyclophosphamide (CY) can inhibit humoral and cellular immunity, leading to the overall immune disorder of the body, resulting in immunosuppressive (IS). Pre-laboratory studies confirmed the immunomodulatory effects of DBD, but its mechanisms have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, the main purpose was to determine the effects of DBD on the immune function and intestinal mucosal barrier function of IS mice induced by CY, and initially explored the immunomodulatory mechanism of DBD. 100g of AR and 20g of AS were accurately weighed and 0.5g/mL of the DBD was obtained by boiling, filtration and rotary evaporation. Then, mice in the DBD group were administered 5g/kg of DBD by gavage, positive group were administered 40mg/kg of levamisole hydrochloride, whereas those in the control and model groups were given the corresponding volume of normal saline by gavage for 1week. At the end of the experiment, blood, spleen, thymus, ileum and cecum contents of all the experimental mice were collected aseptically. IS mouse model induced by intraperitoneal injection of 80mg/kg CY for three consecutive days. Pathomorphology was used to observe the physical barrier of the intestine, flow cytometry to detect splenic lymphocytes, immunohistochemistry to determine the content of intestinal barrier-associated proteins, ELISA to measure the secretion of ileal SIgA, qRT-PCR to detect the mRNA expression of immune-related genes in the intestine, and high-throughput sequencing and analysis of cecum contents. DBD alleviated spleen tissue damage and restored impaired immune functions, such as increased thymus index and CD4+/CD8+ subsets of spleen lymphocytes. In addition, DBD could increase ileum villi length and the ratio of villi length to crypt depth (V/C), and decrease crypt depth. Moreover, DBD administration up-regulated the expression of ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1, MUC-2 mRNA in ileum. And the secretions of sIgA and ZO-1 in ileum were also significantly improved. Furthermore, the administration of DBD can increase the diversity of gut microbiota, improve the composition of intestinal flora and increase the relative abundance of beneficial genus, such as Bacteroides. DBD alleviated CY-induced immune damage by decreasing the ratio of spleen index to CD4+/CD8+ of T lymphocyte subsets. And the intestinal barrier function of mice was by improves improving the intestinal morphology of the ileum and up-regulating the expression levels of ZO-1, MUC-2 and SIgA. DBD regulates CY-induced gut microbiota dysregulation in mice by increasing species diversity and richness, regulating the phylum, class and order levels of Bacteroidetes.

The therapeutic effect of phellopterin on colitis-associated cancer and its effects on TLR4/NF-κB pathway and macrophage M2 polarization.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect and mechanism of phellopterin on colitis-associated cancer (CAC). For this purpose, CAC mouse model was established by AOM/DSS method, and the therapeutic effects of phellopterin in different doses were compared. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in peripheral blood were detected by ELISA. The changes in T lymphocyte subsets and the expressions of CD163, CD206, Arg-1, and Ym-1 in colonic macrophages were detected. The expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 in the colon was tested by Western blot. Results showed that as against the Model group, the body weight and survival rate of mice treated with phellopterin were increased, the disease activity index, hematochezia rate, and tumor formation rate were decreased, the colon length was increased, and the number of tumors and spleen index were decreased (P<0.05). As against the Model group, the proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ in the peripheral blood of phellopterin intervention mice increased, the content of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α decreased, and the content of IL-10 increased. The expression of CD163, CD206, Arg-1, and Ym-1 in colonic macrophages was decreased. The protein expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 in colon tissue were decreased (P<0.05). The effect of phellopterin intervention on CAC was dose-dependent. In conclusion, phellopterin can improve the symptoms and inflammatory response of CAC and inhibit the occurrence of colon cancer (CC) by inhibiting M2 polarization of macrophages and activation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

LENTIL GERMINATION AS A SOURCE OF PREBIOTIC TO STUDY THEIR EFFECTS IN COMMON CARP PERFORMANCE, PHYSIOBIOLOGICAL, BLOOD, HEALTH AND PROXIMATE ANALYSIS

The experiment was conducted at the University of Duhok's College of Agricultural Sciences. The study used a completely randomized design with four treatment groups, three repetitions, and ten fish per replication in twelve plastic tanks (70 L), each tank receiving proper continuous aeration and cleaning on a daily basis. Positive Control (T2) was higher significantly in each of the Weight Gain, Daily Weight Gain, Relative Growth Rate, Feed Efficiency Ratio, Protein Efficiency Ratio, Fat Efficiency Ratio, Hepatic Index, Kidney Index, Lymphocytes (10^9/dl), Monocytes (10^9/dl), and Granulocytes (10^9/dl). T3 with 25 gm germinated lentil /kg was higher significantly in Intestine Length- Weight Index and MCHC (%). T4 with 50 gm germinated lentil /kg increase significantly Intestine Length- Length Index, WBC (10^9/dl), PLT (10^ 9/L), Cholesterol mg/dl, and LDL mg/dl. Negative Control (T1) and 25 gm germinated lentil /kg (T3) were higher significantly in Feed Conversion Ratio, Triglyceride mg/dl, and HDL mg/dl. T2 and T3 increased significantly RBC (10^ 12/L). All treatments as compared to control enhances Ether extract (Oil) (%), Crude protein (%), Weight without viscera and Head, and Spleen Index.

Tea seed saponins ameliorate cyclophosphamide-induced intestinal injury, immune disorder and gut microbial dysbiosis in mice

The impacts of tea seed saponins (TSS) on intestinal injury, immune disorder, gut microbial dysbiosis and serum metabolome in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced mice were explored. The findings indicated that TSS significantly reversed the spleen index, protected intestinal mucosa, and increased the protein levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), occludin, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in colon and small intestine of mice. Microbiome analysis suggested that TSS shaped the gut microbial community structure, and mainly increased the proportion of Bacillus and Alloprevotella. The in vitro experiment further demonstrated the ability of TSS to promote the growth of Bacillus. Serum metabolome analysis showed that TSS significantly upregulated and downregulated 18 and 15 metabolites, respectively. Eight of these compounds were correlated with Bacillus and Alloprevotella. Over all, this work demonstrated that TSS could improve CTX-induced immune imbalance, intestinal barrier disruption and gut microbial dysbiosis, and was a potential candidate for regulating intestinal homeostasis.

Systemic immune response of rainbow trout exposed to Flavobacterium psychrophilum infection

Bacterial cold-water disease (BCWD) caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum is one of the most serious bacterial diseases leading to significant economic loss for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) aquaculture. However, little is known about the systemic immune response of rainbow trout against F. psychrophilum infection. This study investigated the immune response of rainbow trout to F. psychrophilum infection using multiple experiments, including bacterial load detection, phagocyte activity assessment, enzyme activity evaluation, and gene expression profiling. Results showed that the spleen index and intestinal pathogen load reached a peak at 3 days post-infection, with strong pro-inflammatory gene expression observed in rainbow trout. Leukocytes RBA and PKA were significantly elevated in the spleen, blood and intestine at 7 days post-infection. Heat map analysis demonstrated that the spleen had a more substantial pro-inflammatory response compared to the intestine post-infection and exhibited higher expression levels of immune-related genes, including IgM, il1β, il6, cd4, cd8a, cd8b, c1q, chathelicidin, inos, and lysozyme. Both Th1 and Th2 polarized responses in the spleen were activated, with Th2 (il4/13a, gata3) (FC > 4) being more intense than Th1 (tnfα, t-bet) (FC > 2). Tight junction proteins exhibited down-regulation followed by up-regulation post-infection. Collectively, the results of this study expand our current understanding of the immune response of rainbow trout post F. psychrophilum infection but also provide new avenues for investigation in salmonid aquaculture.

Structural characterization and immunomodulatory effect of a starch-like Grifola frondosa polysaccharides on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in mice

In this study, a pure Grifola frondosa polysaccharide (GFP-1) was extracted and purified from Grifola frondosa. By HPLC, GC-MS, FT-IR, and NMR analysis, GFP-1 was determined to be a starch-like polysaccharide with an average molecular weight of 3370 kDa. It included three monosaccharides, i.e., glucose, galactose, and mannose. The backbone of GFP-1 consisted of →4)-α-Glcp-(1→ and →4,6)-α-Glcp-(1 → . The side branches were composed of →6)-α-Galp-(1→, α-Glcp-(1→, and a small amount of α-Manp-(1 → . By using a cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppressed mice model, we evaluated the immunomodulatory activity of GFP-1. The results showed that GFP-1 increased the thymic and spleen indices, promoted the level of IgG and IgA in serum, and activated the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in CTX-induced mice. Also, GFP-1 significantly promoted the mRNA expression of intestinal barrier factors and protected intestinal structural integrity in immunosuppressed mice. In conclusion, the data presented here suggested that GFP-1 might be a potential immune-enhancing supplement.

The oligosaccharides of Xiasangju alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by inhibiting inflammation

Xiasangju (XSJ) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula consisted of Prunella spica, Mulberry leaf and Chrysanthemi indici flos, which can be used to treat fever, headache and ulcer. To explore the effects of oligosaccharides from XSJ (OX) on colitis, we used dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) to establish colitis mouse models. After administration of OX with different doses on the control and colitis mice, we measured their body weights, disease activity indexes (DAI), lengths and histopathologic changes of colons, spleen indexes. The inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress-related factors in serum, and the intestinal microbial community in feces were also detected. We found that colitis mice with oral administration of OX showed higher body weights and lower levels of DAI and spleen index. Tissue damages induced by DSS were also alleviated by OX treatment. The colitis mice with OX treatment exhibited lower levels of AST, ALT, BUN, CR, MDA and a down-regulated expression of IL-6 and IL-1β, while the activity of SOD was up-regulated. Furthermore, OX improved the relative abundance of gut microbiota and restored the proportions of Bacteroidetes and Muribaculaceae. We found that oligosaccharides from XSJ alleviated the symptoms of colitis mice through its inhibitory effects on inflammation and oxidative stress, and also regulated the composition of intestinal flora, which indicates a beneficial role for patients with colitis.

Integrated microbiome and metabolomics revealed the protective effect of baicalin on alveolar bone inflammatory resorption in aging

BackgroundWith the growing aging population and longer life expectancy, periodontitis and tooth loss have become major health concerns. The gut microbiota, as a key regulator in bone homeostasis, has gathered immense interest. Baicalin, a flavonoid compound extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. PurposeThis study investigated, for the first time, the protective mechanism of baicalin against alveolar bone inflammatory resorption in aging mice by regulating intestinal flora and metabolites, as well as intestinal barrier function. MethodsA ligature-induced periodontitis model was established in d-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging mice, and baicalin was administered at different dosages for 13 weeks. Body weight was measured weekly. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of baicalin were evaluated using serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. The immune capability was assessed by thymus and spleen indices. Histopathological changes were observed in the heart, liver, ileum, and periodontal tissues. Alveolar bone absorption of maxillary second molars was examined, and osteoclasts were counted by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Furthermore, fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics to identify differences in intestinal bacterial composition and metabolites. ResultsBaicalin exhibited anti-aging properties, as evidenced by increased SOD activity and decreased levels of MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α in serum compared to the control group. Baicalin also ameliorated alveolar bone loss in the d-gal-induced aging-periodontitis group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, baicalin restored ileal permeability by up-regulating the expression of ZO-1 and occludin in aging-periodontitis groups (p < 0.05). Alpha diversity analysis indicated that baicalin-treated mice harbored a higher diversity of gut microbe. PCoA and ANOSIM results revealed significant dissimilarity between groups. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio, which decreased in periodontitis mice, was restored by baicalin treatment. Additionally, medium-dosage baicalin promoted the production of beneficial flavonoids, and enriched short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria. ConclusionIntestinal homeostasis is a potential avenue for treating age-related alveolar bone loss. Baicalin exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteo-protective properties by regulating the gut microbiota and metabolites.

Decreased muscle strength in adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis animal model: A relationship to behavioural assessments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder with unknown aetiology. Patients suffering from RA face persistent pain due to joint inflammation, and tissue destruction. Behavioural phenotyping is an approach to target the role of different behavioural traits associated with disease progression. The study aimed to assess behavioural patterns associated with decreased muscle strength in the adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis animal model. The study was conducted on male Albino Wister rats (n = 30) [Control, Vehicle, and Disease groups]. After taking ethical approvals RA was induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) intradermally base of tail. The weight of animals, macroscopic analysis of inflammatory signs, and arthritic scores were measured weekly. Grip strength, ganglia-based movement, cataleptic activity, and motor-coordination-related behaviours were assessed among the groups. Radiographs and spleen index assay were performed followed by data analysis using one-way and two-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance). A significant decrease in weight and an increase in arthritic scores among the diseased group was observed. Behavioural analyses confirmed that diseased animals had significantly decreased grip strength and increased cataleptic activity with less motor coordination. Radiographic images and spleen index assay confirmed the pattern of RA. Therefore, it can be suggested that the development of the disease animal model is an effective approach to identifying the disease progression and associated behavioural changes. Moreover, this prepared laboratory animal model may be utilised for pathway analyses to understand the key role of immune regulators and genetic insight into molecular pathways associated with acute and chronic phases of RA.