Superoxidase Dismutase Activity Research Articles

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting autophagy through PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in mice

ObjectiveThe beneficial role of Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) was reported in acute lung injury (ALI), however, there was no direct evidence supporting the relationship between CFTR and cell autophagy in ALI. Here, this study is to analyze the protective role of CFTR on autophagy in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI mice and its special mechanism. MethodsALI mouse models were established by the stimulation of LPS. ALI mice were subjected to tail vein injection of Lv-CFTR, intraperitoneal injection of autophagy activator RAPA or tail vein injection of Lv-sh-HMGB1 before lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected. The expression levels of CFTR, HMGB1, Beclin-1, p62, p-AKT, p-mTOR, and LC3-II/LC3-I ratio were estimated by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The lung edema in ALI mice was inspected by wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was utilized to observe pathological features of lung tissue. Immunofluorescence was applied to determine the expression intensity of LC-3. The superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were assayed, and inflammatory response in ALI mice was measured. ResultsALI mouse models were successfully induced by LPS, evidenced by an enhanced inflammatory response in lung tissues, heightened W/D ratio and cell autophagy markers. ALI mice had suppressed expression of CFTR, while injection of CFTR overexpression in ALI mice attenuated inflammation, autophagy, MPO activity and MDA content in addition to elevating SOD activity. Moreover, CFTR overexpression could increase the p-AKT, and p-mTOR. Overexpression of HMGB1 could reverse the expression pattern in mice injected with CFTR overexpression. ConclusionCFTR could inhibit cell autophagy by enhancing PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby playing a protective role in LPS-induced ALI in mice.

The impact of Crocus sativus stigma against methotrexate-induced liver toxicity in rats.

Background The adverse effects of methotrexate (MTX) mainly hepatotoxicity restrict its clinical use. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) (CS) extract on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods Twenty-eight male Wistar rats randomly divided into four equal groups. Except for control, all groups received a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of MTX on the 3rd day of study. The CS extract was given (80 mg/kg i.p.) to rats 3days before MTX and continued for the next 7days (Pre&Post-CS group) or administrated after MTX injection and lasted for 7days (Post-CS group). On the 11th day, all rats were sacrificed and their plasma levels of liver enzymes including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were determined. Also, liver histopathology and hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and super oxidase dismutase (SOD) were evaluated. Results The results showed that MTX significantly incremented plasma levels of AST, ALT, ALP and LDH (all p<0.001) and hepatic MDA and NO levels; whereas, decreased SOD activity. Histological alterations such as early fatty changes were evident in the MTX group. Administration of CS extract at both methods could ameliorate liver enzyme elevation, oxidative/nitrosative stresses and morphological alterations of the liver. Pre-and-post treatment with CS extract showed better protective effects than only post-treatment. Conclusion The present findings provide showing CS could effectively alleviate MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Further investigations are recommended to determine the exact mechanisms underlying the hepatoprotective potential of saffron.

Effect of different combinations of antibiotics on fruit quality and antioxidant defense system in Huanglongbing infected Kinnow orchards

Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, is the most devastating disease of citrus across the world, caused by the phloem limited fastidious bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter spp.’. This research was conducted on HLB infected 10-year-old Kinnow orchard located at Multan, Pakistan. Different classes of antibiotics in various combinations were applied on HLB-infected trees. The antibiotic treatments were applied before flowering in February, during fruit setting in April and at fruit growth stage in June. The different antibiotics combinations used were Ampicillin sodium + Rifampicin, Cefalexin + Rifampicin, Ampicillin sodium + Cefalexin, Ampicillin sodium + Cefalexin + Rifampicin and Control (distilled water). Different fruit qualitative and quantitative attributes were examined. The application of antibiotics significantly decreased 2–11% in flower, June and pre-harvest drops as compared to control. Further, antibiotics increased fruit weight and yield by five times while the juice content, total soluble solids, ripening index, total sugars, phenolic and vitamin C content were also increased in fruits. In addition, total soluble proteins, peroxidase and catalase activities were increased in fruits harvested from antibiotic treated plants compared to control, however the superoxidase dismutase activity was decreased in fruits of antibiotic treated plants. Finally, it is concluded that application of different antibiotics combinations helps in improving the fruit yield and different quality attributes of HLB infected Kinnow trees.

Multi-Day Prolonged Low- to Moderate-Intensity Endurance Exercise Mimics Training Improvements in Metabolic and Oxidative Profiles Without Concurrent Chromosomal Changes in Healthy Adults.

BackgroundOxidative stress results in lipid, protein, and DNA oxidation, resulting in telomere erosion, chromosomal damage, and accelerated cellular aging. Training promotes healthy metabolic and oxidative profiles whereas the effects of multi-day, prolonged, and continuous exercise are unknown. This study investigated the effects of multi-day prolonged exercise on metabolic and oxidative stress as well as telomere integrity in healthy adults.MethodsFifteen participants performed a 14-day, 260-km, wilderness canoeing expedition (12 males) (EXP) (24 ± 7 years, 72 ± 6 kg, 178 ± 8.0 cm, 18.4 ± 8.4% BF, 47.5 ± 9.3 mlO2 kg–1 min–1), requiring 6–9 h of low- to moderate-intensity exercise daily. Ten controls participated locally (seven males) (CON) (31 ± 11 years, 72 ± 15 kg, 174 ± 10 cm, 22.8 ± 10.0% BF, 47.1 ± 9.0 mlO2 kg–1 min–1). Blood plasma, serum, and mononuclear cells were sampled before and after the expedition to assess hormonal, metabolic, and oxidative changes.ResultsSerum cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoprotein, testosterone, insulin, sodium, potassium, urea, and chloride concentrations were not different between groups, whereas triglycerides, glucose, and creatinine levels were lower following the expedition (p < 0.001). Malondialdehyde and relative telomere length (TL) were unaffected (EXP: 4.2 ± 1.3 vs. CON: 4.1 ± 0.7 μM; p > 0.05; EXP: 1.00 ± 0.48 vs. CON: 0.89 ± 0.28 TS ratio; p = 0.77, respectively); however, superoxidase dismutase activity was greater in the expedition group (3.1 ± 0.4 vs. 0.8 ± 0.5 U ml–1; p < 0.001).ConclusionThese results indicate a modest improvement in metabolic and oxidative profiles with increased superoxidase dismutase levels, suggesting an antioxidative response to counteract the exercise-associated production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species during prolonged exercise, mimicking the effects from long-term training. Although improved antioxidant activity may lead to increased TL, the present exercise stimulus was insufficient to promote a positive cellular aging profile with concordant chromosomal changes in our healthy and young participants.

Effect of thermal manipulation of broilers embryos on the response to heat-induced oxidative stress.

Effects of embryonic thermal manipulation (TM) on mRNA expressional levels and total antioxidant capacity of genes associated with heat-induced oxidative stress (NOX4, GpX2, SOD2, catalase, and AvUCP) in 2 breeds of broiler chicken were investigated. Fertile Cobb and Hubbard eggs (n = 1,200) were divided into 4 treatment groups: Cobb control, Cobb TM, Hubbard control, and Hubbard TM. Control groups were maintained under standard conditions (37.8°C; 56% relative humidity), whereas TM groups were incubated at 39°C and 65% relative humidity for 18 h a day from embryonic days (ED) 10 to 18. On post-hatch day 28, the broilers were subject to acute heat stress (AHS) at 40°C for 7 h. At certain intervals (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7h), 12 chickens from each of the 4 groups were humanely euthanized, and liver samples were immediately isolated. During AHS, in both breeds, the mRNA expression levels of NOX4, GPx2, SOD2, and catalase in TM chickens were significantly lower than in controls, but AvUCP mRNA expression in the TM group was higher. The total antioxidant capacity and activity of superoxidase dismutase and catalase were significantly lower in the TM than in the control group in both breeds. The results of this study suggest that TM has a long-lasting effect on the acquisition of thermotolerance in 2 broiler chicken breeds as indicated by the reduction of system genes associated with heat-induced oxidative stress.

Polysaccharide from natural Cordyceps sinensis ameliorated intestinal injury and enhanced antioxidant activity in immunosuppressed mice

Polysaccharide is one of the main bioactive substances in Cordyceps sinensis (C. sinensis). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of polysaccharide from natural C. sinensis (CSP) on intestinal mucosal immunity and antioxidant activity in cyclophosphamide (Cy)-induced intestinal immunosuppressed mice, further to explore the potential mechanism. Results showed that in mice with Cy-induced intestinal injury, the supplement of CSP (25, 50, 100 mg/kg·bw) significantly increased the levels of goblet cells and mucus in intestine in a dose-dependent manner. The formation of immunoglobulin A (IgA)-secreting cells and the secretory IgA (sIgA) contents were promoted obviously in CSP groups. Furthermore, CSP significantly promoted the secretion or mRNA expression of T helper (Th) 1 style cytokines, including interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-12 p40, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), in addition to Th1 style transcription factor T-bet. Besides, the levels of Th2 style cytokines, including IL-4, IL-10 and transcription factor GATA-3, were also improved. The value of T-bet/GATA-3, as well as IFN-γ/IL-4 was increased obviously. These results indicated that CSP effectively enhanced intestinal mucosal immunity and regulated polarization of Th1/Th2 cells. The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) in liver were increased significantly, and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased dose-dependently. In conclusion, CSP effectively ameliorated Cy-induced intestinal injury in mice, which provided a good suggestion of the potential utilization of CSP as a natural immunopotentiator and antioxidant.

Protective antioxidant effect of melanin against chemical burn-induced esophageal injury

Background: Oxidative stress is the main cause of mortality in chemical burn-induced esophageal injury. Melanin, a natural antioxidant compound from yeast-like fungus Nadsoniella nigra strain X- 1, has been shown to decrease the content of lipid peroxidation products after burn. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of melanin in the treatment of esophageal injury after a chemical burn.&#x0D; Methods: A alkali burn model was used to induce injury to the esophagus in immature rats. Changes in the levels of malondialdehyde, secondary products of lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), superoxidase dismutase, and catalase in the blood, as well as changes in the esophagus tissue, were examined.&#x0D; Results: Melanin decreased the content of lipid peroxidation products following burn injury. Melanin increased the activity of superoxidase dismutase and reduced the activity of catalase, as well as reduced esophagus oxidative injury in our chemical burn model.&#x0D; Conclusion: Melanin treatment may protect against chemical burninduced esophageal injury, possibly by inhibiting burn-induced oxidative stress.&#x0D;

Drought tolerance in citrus rootstocks is associated with better antioxidant defense mechanism

Citrus is one of the major fruit crops grown worldwide. Citrus trees are affected by different abiotic stresses including drought which decrease its yield. In this study, six different citrus rootstocks (Volkameriana lemon, Brazilian sour orange, Carrizo citrange, Eureka lemon, Gada dahi, and Rangpur lime) were subjected to drought stress (24 days) and leaf relative water content (LRWC), chlorophyll 'a' and 'b', antioxidant capacity (AC), total phenolic content, and proline content (PRO) were measured. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipid peroxidation (MDA), total soluble proteins (TSP), and enzymatic antioxidant activities, such as superoxidase dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD), were measured in leaves and roots of the rootstocks. Drought-stressed Volkameriana lemon had the minimum LRWC but higher SOD activity in its leaves. Carrizo citrange possessed the minimum amount of Chl 'a' and 'b' in leaves and exhibited lesser MDA and H2O2 in roots but greater TSP content in leaves and roots. SOD, CAT, POD, PRO, MDA, H2O2, and AC decreased in the leaves of Eureka lemon and Rangpur lime under drought stress. MDA and H2O2 contents were observed higher in leaves of Brazilian sour orange (a drought sensitive rootstock). However, higher SOD activity in roots and higher CAT and POD activities in leaves and roots were recorded in Carrizo citrange (a drought-tolerant rootstock). The results indicated that all the studied rootstocks were different in their defense mechanism. Tolerant rootstocks exhibited less amount of MDA and H2O2 and more antioxidant enzymatic activities (SOD, CAT, and POD) to cope with reactive oxygen species produced during drought stress.

Exposure to lower red to far-red light ratios improve tomato tolerance to salt stress

BackgroundRed (R) and far-red (FR) light distinctly influence phytochrome-mediated initial tomato growth and development, and more recent evidence indicates that these spectra also modulate responses to a multitude of abiotic and biotic stresses. This research investigated whether different R: FR values affect tomato growth response and salinity tolerance. Tomato seedlings were exposed to different R: FR conditions (7.4, 1.2 and 0.8) under salinity stress (100 mM NaCl), and evaluated for their growth, biochemical changes, active reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ROS scavenging enzymes, pigments, rate of photosynthesis, and chlorophyll fluorescence.ResultsThe results showed that under conditions of salinity, tomato seedlings subjected to a lower R: FR value (0.8) significantly increased both their growth, proline content, chlorophyll content and net photosynthesis rate (Pn), while they decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to the higher R: FR value (7.4). Under conditions of salinity, the lower R: FR value caused a decrease in both the superoxide anion (O2•−) and in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation, an increase in the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD, EC 1.15.1.1), peroxidase (POD, EC 1.11.1.7) and catalase (CAT, EC 1.11.1.7). Tomato seedlings grown under the lower R: FR value and conditions of salinity showed a higher actual quantum yield of photosynthesis (ΦPSII), electron transport rate (ETR), and photochemical quenching (qP) than those exposed to a higher R: FR, indicating overall healthier growth. However, the salinity tolerance induced at the lower R: FR condition disappeared in the tomato phyB1 mutant.ConlusionThese results suggest that growing tomato with a lower R: FR value could improve seedlings’ salinity tolerance, and phytochrome B1 play an very important role in this process. Therefore, different qualities of light can be used to efficiently develop abiotic stress tolerance in tomato cultivation.

Prolonged Low‐ to Moderate‐Intensity Exercise Improves Metabolic and Oxidative Profiles in Healthy Adults

BackgroundOxidative stress results in cellular lipid, protein and DNA oxidation as well as overall metabolic dysfunction. This may result in chromosomal damage, telomere erosion, and accelerated cellular aging. Long‐term participation in physical activity promotes healthy metabolic and oxidative profiles whereas the effects of prolonged and continuous exercise, are unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of prolonged exercise on oxidative and metabolic stress as well as cellular ageing in healthy adults participating in multi‐day wilderness expedition.MethodsTwenty‐seven people participated in the study. Sixteen went on a 14‐day, 260‐km wilderness canoeing expedition (12 males) (E) (24 ± 7 yrs, 72 ± 6 kg, 178 ± 8.0 cm, 18.4 ± 8.4 %BF, 47.5 ± 9.3 mlO2·kg−1·min−1), requiring 6–9 hrs of low to moderate exercise daily. Eleven acted as controls (7 males) (C) (31 ± 11 yrs, 72 ± 15 kg, 174 ± 10 cm, 22.8 ± 10.0 %BF, 47.1 ± 9.0 mlO2·kg−1·min−1). Blood sample collection was completed before and after the expedition. ANCOVA analyses, with age, gender, fitness, and baseline values as covariates, were performed on serum metabolic, hormonal and oxidative variables while telomere length was isolated from blood mononuclear cells.ResultsSerum total cholesterol, high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein, testosterone, insulin, sodium, potassium, urea and chloride concentrations were not different between groups. Serum triglycerides (TG), glucose (GLU), and creatinine (CR) levels were all lower following the expedition (TG, E: 69 ± 18 vs. C: 106 ± 45 mg·dL−1; p = 0.002: GLU, E: 86.2 ± 5.4 vs. C: 95.8 ± 8.8 mg·dL−1; p &lt; 0.001: CR E: 0.89 ± 0.13 vs. C: 0.96 ± 0.16 mg·dL−1; p &lt; 0.001). Oxidative stress, as assessed via malondialdehyde (MDA) was unaffected (E: 4.2 ± 1.3 vs. C: 4.1 ± 0.7 μM; p &gt; 0.05) but superoxidase dismutase activity (SOD), representative of antioxidant activity, was greater in the expedition group (E: 3.1 ± 0.4 vs. C: 0.8 ± 0.5 U·ml−1; p &lt; 0.001). Telomere length, as a cellular sign for stress and senescence, was unchanged (E: 1.00 ± 0.48 vs. C: 0.89 ± 0.28 TS ratio; p = 0.77).ConclusionThese results indicate a modest improvement in metabolic and oxidative profiles following 14 days of low to moderate exercise in healthy young individuals. The observed changes in SOD suggest a stronger cellular protective response from antioxidants to counteract the exercise‐associated production of pro‐oxidant free radicals and reactive oxygen species during prolonged low‐moderate physical loading. Although improved antioxidant activity may lead to increased telomere length, it seems that the present exercise stimulus was insufficient to promote a positive cellular aging profile with concordant chromosomal changes in our young participants.Support or Funding InformationThe work was supported by a Laurentian University Research Fund grant and a travel grant from the University of OuluThis abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) improved the impairments in AD rat models by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is one of the commonest neural degeneration in aging population, and has become a global health challenge. 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) was reported to effectively improved the damage of patients with neuropathological disorders. In the present study, we investigated the effect of 2-BFI on the improvement of antioxidative, inflammation, and apoptosis in AD rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (2 months old, n=40) were used in this study and after injection of Aβ1-42 into hippocampal CA1 (Cornu Ammonis) region, the rats were given high, moderate and low dose of 2-BFI though intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Then spatial memory and navigation ability were analyzed by Morrize Water Maze. For the molecular testing, chemical colorimetry, ELISA and immunoblotting were performed to measure the activities of antioxidative enzymes, the abundance of immune cytokines and expression of apoptotic proteins, respectively. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining was used to analyze the pathological changes. We observed that 2-BFI significantly ameliorated the learning and memory abilities in rat models with AD by dosage treatment, as demonstrated by the shorten learning latency and greater times of travel across the platform quadrant. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), were decreased after treatment of 2-BFI with dosage dependency, while the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and (GPX) Glutathione peroxidase were in turn enhanced, suggesting that 2-BFI could protect the antioxidative enzymes and reduce the oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Moreover, the expression of inflammatory factors including TNF-a and IL-1β were decreased after 2-BFI treatment. Additionally, the neuronal apoptosis was also attenuated, as shown by Western blot results. Taken together, the cognitive impairment in AD rats could be significantly improved by 2-BFI in a dose-dependent manner through suppressing oxidants accumulation, inhibiting of inflammatory response, as well as enhancing the neural viability.

Relationship of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Oral Cancer.

Oral cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in Taiwan, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) has also increased globally. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlations between the components of MS and oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with oral cancer based on their areca-nut-chewing habits. Two hundred patients diagnosed with oral cancer were recruited, and metabolic parameters, oxidative stress, antioxidant enzyme activities, and inflammatory markers were measured. 63% of the subjects have concomitant MS. Subjects who had an areca-nut-chewing habit had significantly higher levels of fasting glucose (p = 0.04), oxidative stress (p = 0.02), and inflammatory markers (p = 0.02) than those who never chewed. High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level (p = 0.03) and superoxidase dismutase activity (p = 0.02) were significantly lower in individuals who had chewed or were currently chewers. Areca-nut-chewing habit was associated with the increased risks for MS and hypertriglyceridemia; the components of MS were positively correlated with oxidative stress and inflammation. In conclusion, patients with oral cancer who had an areca-nut-chewing habit exhibited higher levels of oxidative stress and inflammation, which might be related to an increased risk of MS.

Respon Enzim Antioksidatif Sonchus oleraceus terhadap Cekaman Krom pada Media Tanam Berbeda

ABSTRACT Sonchus oleraceus is a weed that is capable of living in chromium contaminated environments, so their physiological, biochemical and molecular responses can be used as biomarkers of chromium stress. Changes in the activity of antioxidative enzymes can be used as a biomarker of biochemical against heavy metal stress.The objective of this research was to know the response of antioxidative enzymes activity in S. oleraceus subjected to Cr stress on different planting media. The research was done in 2 factors i.e. planting media types and Cr compound types (Cr3+and Cr6+). Parameters measured were antioxidative enzymes activity i.e catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxidase dismutase (SOD), and glutathion reductase (GR), dissolved protein content in leaves, and content of Cr6 + and Cr total in roots and shoots.The data were analyzed with a two way ANOVA using SAS 9.1 32-bit for windows. The results indicated that activity of antioxidative enzymes (CAT, APX, SOD and GR) of S. oleraceus leaves tend to increase under Cr stress condition. The Cr6+ treatment of 10 mg/L significantly increased the antioxidative enzyme activity of CAT, APX, SOD and GR in S. oleraceus leaves. The antioxidative enzyme activity (APX, SOD and GR) S. oleraceus grown on soil medium containing sludge was higher than that grown on soil media and on the mixture of sludge: soil (1: 1). Under Cr stress conditions, the roots and shoots of S. oleraceus grown on sterile sand media, soil and the mixture of sludge:soil (1:1) accumulate Cr6+ and Cr total. The accumulation of Cr6+ was found the highest in shoots, meanwhile accumulation of Cr total was found the highest in the roots. The Cr treatments and planting media also significantly influenced the soluble protein content in S. oleraceus leaves. Key words: antioxidant, oxidative stress, chromium, weed, soluble protein

Single and mixture toxicities of BDE-47, 6-OH-BDE-47 and 6-MeO-BDE-47 on the feeding activity of Daphnia magna: From behavior assessment to neurotoxicity

Although 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-47), 6-hydroxy-2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (6-OH-BDE-47) and 6-methoxy-2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (6-MeO-BDE-47) clearly disrupt the endocrine system, current knowledge of their single and/or mixture toxicities on other behaviors of aquatic organisms remains limited. In the present study, Daphnia magna was used to investigate the single and mixture toxicities of BDE-47, 6-OH-BDE-47 and 6-MeO-BDE-47 as measured by inhibition of feeding during exposure and post-exposure periods. Additionally, the biochemical performance, i.e., the activities of super oxidase dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) of the test organism was studied to investigate the potential mechanisms of the toxicity of the target compounds. The three target compounds produced an obvious depressive effect on feeding behavior during the exposure period, and the effect increased with increasing concentrations. D. magna was most sensitive to 6-OH-BDE-47. The toxicity of the ternary mixture showed an obvious concentration-dependent effect, whereas the binary mixture toxicity showed the characteristics of hormesis. During the post-exposure period, overcompensation occurred, indicating a short-term effect of the target compounds on D. magna. Additionally, significant changes occurred in neurological responses, indicating that these compounds might have neurobehavioral toxicity in D. magna. The decrease in oxidative stress enzymes (SOD and GPx) indicated that the antioxidant response of D. magna was destroyed.

Immunoenhancement Effects of Glycosaminoglycan from Apostichopus japonicus: In Vitro and In Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppressed Mice Studies.

In this study, the immunomodulatory activities of Apostichopus japonicus glycosaminoglycan (AHG) on the nature killer (NK) cells, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and cyclophosphamide (CY)-treated mice were investigated. After stimulation with multiple concentrations of AHG (0–100 μg/mL), NK cells and CTLs displayed outperformance against YAC-1 and B16 cells, respectively. Furthermore, the mitogen-induced splenic lymphocyte proliferation in CY-induced immunosuppressed mice was significantly promoted by AHG. In addition, the administration of AHG dramatically increased the splenocytes Ca2+ concentration and the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, AHG could strongly increase the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) as well as glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and could decrease the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the heart, kidney and liver. These findings indicated that AHG played an important role in the immune enhancement and protection against CY-induced immunosuppression and oxidative damage. Our findings provide experimental evidence for further research and possible immunostimulatory applications of AHG in clinical practice.

Nephroprotective effect of electrolyzed reduced water against cisplatin-induced kidney toxicity and oxidative damage in mice

BackgroundCisplatin is a potent chemotherapeutic drug for cancer therapy, but it has serious side effects in clinical treatment, particularly nephrotoxicity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of electrolyzed reduced water (ERW) on renal injury caused by cisplatin. MethodsAnimals were divided into four groups as follows: normal control group, cisplatin control group, ERW control group and ERW + cisplatin group. Each group comprised 10 animals, which were orally treated with normal saline or ERW daily companion by administration of one dose of cisplatin for 28 days. Animals in the cisplatin group received an intraperitoneal single-dose injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg body weight) as a single i.p. dose on the 25th day of the experiment. We determined the hydration state in urine and the level of serum markers of kidney function, the levels of glutathione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) levels and the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) and superoxidase dismutase (SOD) in kidney and histopathological changes. ResultsAfter administration of ERW, the reduced urinary osmolality was increased and elevated Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ levels in urine were significantly decreased in cisplatin-induced renal injury mice. Besides, the results demonstrated that significantly decreased elevated serum levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and the levels of TBARS in the kidneys that were induced by cisplatin. Moreover, ERW treatment was also found to markedly increase (p < 0.05) the activities of GPx, GR, CAT and SOD, and to increase GSH content in the kidneys. Histopathology showed that ERW protects against cisplatin-induced renal injury to both the proximal and distal tubules. ConclusionERW exhibits potent nephroprotective effects on cisplatin-induced kidney damage in mice, likely due to both the increase in antioxidant-defense system activity and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Gender differences in response to vitamin E and C in gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats

Background: Nephrotoxicity is the most recognized side effect of gentamicin. Vitamin E and vitamin C demonstrate their effective role in the prevention of nephrotoxicity. Likewise, previous studies have suggested that women have low risk of end-stage renal disease at premenopausal period. to antioxidant effects vitamins E and C in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Wistar rats were randomly assigned to 6 groups each including both male and female rats. The first and second groups received saline (control group) and almond oil, the third group received gentamicin. The fourth group received a regular dose of gentamicin + vitamin E. Similarly, the fifth group received a regular dose of gentamicin + vitamin C. The sixth group received a dose of gentamicin + vitamin C and E simultaneously constantly. This protocol continued for 9 days. (MDA), but it decreased superoxidase dismutase (SOD) level (P < 0.05). Treatment with antioxidant vitamins improved urea, creatinine, MDA, and SOD serum level significantly in both genders (P <0.05). Likewise, kidney MDA level enhanced significantly (P <0.05) and treatment with antioxidant vitamins reduced MDA level too (P <0.05). Gentamicin decreased kidney SOD activity in male and female rats (P <0.05). However, treatment with antioxidant vitamins did not improve its level in male rats, while in female rats, vitamins E and C compensated for kidney SOD activity. genders, with some difference in response to vitamins E and C between the genders, that was higher in female rats.

Antioxidant-Rich Extract from Plantaginis Semen Ameliorates Diabetic Retinal Injury in a Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat Model

Plantaginis semen, the dried ripe seed of Plantago asiatica L. or Plantago depressa Willd. (Plantaginaceae), has been traditionally used to treat blurred vision in Asia. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of plantaginis semen ethanol extract (PSEE) on the amelioration of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. PSEE has abundant polyphenols with strong antioxidant activity. PSEE (100, 200 or 300 mg/kg) was oral administrated to the diabetic rats once daily consecutively for 8 weeks. Oral administration of PSEE resulted in significant reduction of hyperglycemia, the diameter of the retinal vessels, and retinal vascular permeability and leukostasis in diabetic rats. In addition, PSEE administration increased the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH) level in diabetic retinae. PSEE treatment inhibited the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and the phosphorylation of Akt without altering the Akt protein expression in diabetic retinae. PSEE not only down-regulated the gene expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), but also reduced ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in diabetic retinae. Moreover, PSEE reduced the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and corrected imbalance between histone deacetylases (HDAC) and histone acetyltransferases (HAT) activities in diabetic retinae. In conclusion, phenolic antioxidants extract from plantaginis semen has potential benefits in the prevention and/or progression of DR.

Effect of Differential Light Quality on Morphology, Photosynthesis, and Antioxidant Enzyme Activity in Camptotheca acuminata Seedlings

Light quality is an important environmental factor for plant growth and development. In this study, the effects of light quality (white, blue, yellow, and red light) on plant growth, photosynthesis, and radical oxygen species production and scavenging were investigated, in Camptotheca acuminata (C. acuminata) seedlings, by means of measuring growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange, and chlorophyll fluorescence, as well as stomatal structure and density, chloroplast ultrastructure, and ROS contents and antioxidant activities. Compared with white light, red light significantly increased seedling height, shoot, and total plant biomass, and promoted the highest photosynthetic capacity, electron transport, and photochemical efficiency. Red light also helped facilitate leaf development, indicated by higher total and specific leaf area, as well as decreased malondialdehyde content and relative electrolyte conductivity and contents of superoxide anion production rate and peroxide. In contrast, blue and yellow light significantly reduced plant growth, and increased activities of superoxidase dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase. Furthermore, red light promoted chloroplast development, which enhanced photosynthetic efficiency. These results suggest that red light could improve plant growth in C. acuminata seedlings through activating photosynthetic processes, reducing ROS accumulation, and maintaining chloroplast structure.

Paenibacillus polymyxa as a water additive improved immune response of Cyprinus carpio and disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila

The present study was undertaken to investigate the impact of Paenibacillus polymyxa as water additive probiotic bacterium in common carp, Cyprinus carpio based on water quality, survival, innate immune responses and disease resistance. The completely randomized experiment design was conducted for eight weeks and treatments consisted of three levels of P. polymyxa added in water at concentration of 103cfumL−1 (PP1), 104cfumL−1 (PP2) and 105cfumL−1 (PP3) and one control (Con, without any probiotic). No significant differences (p>0.05) in water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonical nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen were observed throughout the experimental period among treatments. The influences of P. polymyxa at different concentrations significantly improved survival (p<0.05). Study of different innate immunological parameters viz. lysozyme activity, respiratory burst assay, myeloperoxidase content, catalase and superoxidase dismutase activities showed significant (p<0.05) improved immune responses in fish exposed to P. polymyxa as water additive at 103 (PP1) and 104 (PP2)cfumL−1. The supplementation of probiotic in challenge test significantly (p<0.05) enhanced the resistance of fish against A. hydrophila infection. In view of recent reports of antibiotic failure from many countries to stop spread of fish diseases, renewed interest in a more complete understanding of the fish immune response to infectious diseases will be critical in developing new eco-friendly control strategies for future. Therefore, the application of probiotic P. polymyxa as water additive could be applied in aquaculture to improve immune responses and disease resistance of C. carpio.