Superoxide Dismutase Activity Levels Research Articles

ФИЗИОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ ОСОБЕННОСТИ СОРТОВ ГРУШИ НА ТЕРРИТОРИИ КРАСНОДАРСКОГО КРАЯ

The search for new promising pear varieties with high adaptation and production potential is an important aim of modern breeding for the southern regions of the Russian Federation. In present study, the results of the physiological characteristics of four pear varieties during the summerautumn season 2022-2023 are presented. Pear trees were planted in the territory of the Prikubanskaya fruit growing in the Krasnodar Region. Three varieties Leven, Lyuberskaya, Flamenco of Russian breeding and the American variety Devo were used. The pear leaves were selected three times during the summer months and in September. The content of soluble sugars and total phenols, as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes – superoxide dismutase and peroxidase – were determined in the plant material. It was established that an increase of the level of the primary and secondary metabolites accumulation and an increase of enzymatic activity by ~20-75 % occurred in the hotter and drier 2023. The content of soluble sugars significantly increased to ~12.0 mg/g fresh weight in the leaves of the varieties Devo and Leven. The accumulation of phenolic compounds increased in all pear varieties by more than 30 % with values exceeding 27,0 mg/g fresh weight. The level of superoxide dismutase activity in 2023 averaged 13.4 unit/mg protein, which is slightly higher than the values of 2022. Peroxidase activity increased 2-4 times with maximum values of more than 8,0 unit/mg protein per min. in the varieties Leven and Lyuberskaya. In conclusion, the data obtained indicate that the drier and hotter conditions of 2023 were not critical for the normal growth and development of the studied pears varieties, but only initiated the activation of the defense antioxidant system in plant cells. Key words: PEAR, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY METABOLITES, ANTIOXIDANT ENZYME ACTIVITY

Exogenous Fatty Acids Remodel the Muscle Fatty Acids Composition of the GIFT Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

To reduce the negative impact of fish oil substitutes on the fatty acid composition of farmed fish, this experiment utilized different types of oils as dietary lipid sources for GIFT tilapia. Tilapia oil (FO) was used as the control, along with corn oil (CO), linseed oil (LO), algae oil (AO), and a mixture of linseed oil and algae oil in various ratios of 1 : 2, 1 : 1, and 2 : 1 (LA12, LA11, and LA21) to reshape the fatty acid profile of GIFT tilapia (0.205 ± 0.005 g) in the muscle. The weight gain and specific growth rate of tilapia in the LO and control groups were significantly higher than in other treatments (P<0.05). Meanwhile, despite the AO group exhibited the highest docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content (P<0.05), it also exhibited the highest levels of malondialdehyde content and superoxide dismutase activity (P<0.05). The mRNA expression levels of Δ6/Δ5 fatty acyl desaturase 2 (Δ6/Δ5FADs2), Δ4 fatty acyl desaturase 2 (Δ4FADs2), acetyl-CoA carboxylase α (ACCα), and elongase of very long chain fatty acids 5 (ELOVL5) in the hepatopancreas of LO group were exhibited a significant upregulation compared to the control (P<0.05). The synthesis of DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in the muscles of LA12, LA11, and LA21 groups increased as the proportion of DHA decreased in the diets. In conclusion, the edible value of fatty acids of tilapia muscle, especially n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, can be significantly improved by adjusting the oil source in the diet through lipid metabolism.

Host-parasite interaction in severe and uncomplicated malaria infection in ghanaian children.

During malarial infection, both parasites and host red blood cells (RBCs) come under severe oxidative stress due to the production of free radicals. The host system responds in protecting the RBCs against the oxidative damage caused by these free radicals by producing antioxidants. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant enzyme; superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and cytokine interactions with parasitaemia in Ghanaian children with severe and uncomplicated malaria. One hundred and fifty participants aged 0-12 years were administered with structured questionnaires. Active case finding approach was used in participating hospitals to identify and interview cases before treatment was applied. Blood samples were taken from each participant and used to quantify malaria parasitaemia, measure haematological parameters and SOD activity. Cytokine levels were measured by commercial ELISA kits. DNA comet assay was used to evaluate the extent of parasite DNA damage due to oxidative stress. Seventy - Nine (79) and Twenty- Six (26) participants who were positive with malaria parasites were categorized as severe (56.75 × 103 ± 57.69 parasites/µl) and uncomplicated malaria (5.87 × 103 ± 2.87 parasites/µl) respectively, showing significant difference in parasitaemia (p < 0.0001). Significant negative correlation was found between parasitaemia and SOD activity levels among severe malaria study participants (p = 0.0428). Difference in cytokine levels (IL-10) amongst the control, uncomplicated and severe malaria groups was significant (p < 0.0001). The IFN-γ/IL-10 /TNF-α/IL-10 ratio differed significantly between the malaria infected and non- malaria infected study participants. DNA comet assay revealed damage to Plasmodium parasite DNA. Critical roles played by SOD activity and cytokines as anti-parasitic defense during P. falciparum malaria infection in children were established.

Protective Effect of Citicoline on Sodium Arsenite-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice

Background: Sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) is a common mineral contaminant in drinking water in numerous parts of the world. It has been shown to have cardiovascular, metabolic, neuroendocrine, and urinary effects on the body. There is abundant scientific evidence that establishes a strong correlation between arsenic exposure and kidney-related disorders. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of citicoline against NaAsO2-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: The groups included a control group, a group treated with NaAsO2 at a concentration of 50 ppm, a group treated with Cit at a dosage of 1000 mg/kg, and three groups of NaAsO2 (50 ppm) co-treated with Cit at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, respectively. Results: Citicoline decreased the level of blood urea nitrogen (P &lt; 0.001), creatinine levels (P &lt; 0.001), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (P &lt; 0.001), nitric oxide (P &lt; 0.001), inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α (P &lt; 0.001) and interleukin-6 (P &lt; 0.001 and P &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, Cit increased total thiol (P &lt; 0.001) and activity levels of catalase (P &lt; 0.05 and P &lt; 0.001), superoxide dismutase (P &lt; 0.01 and P &lt; 0.001), and glutathione peroxidase (P &lt; 0.001). Therefore, Cit reduced the harmful effects caused by the imbalance in oxidative and antioxidant systems and histopathological damage in NaAsO2-intoxicated mice, improving the damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Conclusions: Our research shows that Cit can protect the kidneys against the damaging effects of NaAsO2 by using its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Yinhuang granule alleviates carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice and its mechanism.

Liver fibrosis is a formidable global medical challenge, with no effective clinical treatment currently available. Yinhuang granule (YHG) is a proprietary Chinese medicine comprising Scutellariae Radix and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos. It is frequently used for upper respiratory tract infections, pharyngitis, as well as acute and chronic tonsillitis. To investigate the potential of YHG in alleviating carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. To induce a hepatic fibrosis model in mice, this study involved intraperitoneal injections of 2 mL/kg of CCl4 twice a week for 4 wk. Meanwhile, liver fibrosis mice in the low dose of YHG (0.4 g/kg) and high dose of YHG (0.8 g/kg) groups were orally administered YHG once a day for 4 wk. Serum alanine/aspartate aminotransferase (ALT/AST) activity and liver hydroxyproline content were detected. Sirius red and Masson's trichrome staining assay were conducted. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, western-blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were conducted. Liver glutathione content, superoxide dismutase activity level, reactive oxygen species and protein carbonylation amount were detected. The administration of YHG ameliorated hepatocellular injury in CCl4-treated mice, as reflected by decreased serum ALT/AST activity and improved liver histological evaluation. YHG also attenuated liver fibrosis, evident through reduced liver hydroxyproline content, improvements in Sirius red and Masson's trichrome staining, and lowered serum hyaluronic acid levels. Furthermore, YHG hindered the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and ameliorated oxidative stress injury and inflammation in liver from CCl4-treated mice. YHG prompted the nuclear accumulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and upregulated the expression of Nrf2-dependent downstream antioxidant genes. In addition, YHG promoted mitochondrial biogenesis in liver from CCl4-treated mice, as demonstrated by increased liver adenosine triphosphate content, mitochondrial DNA levels, and the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha and nuclear respiratory factor 1. YHG effectively attenuates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting the activation of HSCs, reducing inflammation, alleviating liver oxidative stress damage through Nrf2 activation, and promoting liver mitochondrial biogenesis.

Effects of partial substitution of enzymatic hydrolysate of poultry by-product meal for fishmeal on the growth performance, hepatic health, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

A 95-day experiment was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of partially substituting fishmeal with enzymatic hydrolysate of poultry by-product meal (EHPB) as feed for juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Five diets (EHPB0, EHPB3, EHPB6, EHPB9, and EHPB12) of fishmeal were 45% (0% EHPB, the control group), 41% (3.1% EHPB), 37% (6.2% EHPB), 33% (9.3% EHPB), and 29% (12.4% EHPB), respectively. The initial mean weigh of largemouth bass was 22.35 ± 0.08 g. There were no significant differences in growth performance among all EHPB groups compared with the control (P > 0.05). The growth performance of EHPB3 was significantly better than that of EHPB12 (P < 0.05). EHPB0 had the highest crude protein and moisture content (P < 0.05). Plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly lower under EHPB9 and EHPB12 than the control (P < 0.05). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly lower under EHPB12 than the control (P < 0.05). High-density lipoprotein (HDL), total protein (TP), and albumin (ALB) did not significantly differ among diets (P > 0.05). Hepatic glutathione (GSH) content and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity were highest for the control (EHPB0). The hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity levels were significantly lower for all treatments than the control except for EHPB3 (P < 0.05). Keap1 in the Nrf2 pathway was significantly upregulated and cat was significantly downregulated under all treatments compared with the control except for EHPB3 (P < 0.05). Jnk1/2, nf-κb, il-8/10, tnf-α, and traf2 were significantly upregulated under EHPB6 relative to the control (P < 0.05). The diet containing 29% basal fishmeal (12.4% EHPB) did not affect the growth performance of juvenile largemouth bass. However, the optimal levels of the genes related to antioxidant performance and immune function were attained under 3.1% EHPB (41% fishmeal).

Cardioprotective effects of losartan and diminazene against the ischemia/reperfusion injury in hyperthyroidism rats.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces high levels of thyroid hormone. Heart diseases are one of the main complications of hyperthyroidism. Several studies have shown that losartan (LOS) and diminazene aceturate (DIZE) possess cardioprotection effects against cardiac hypertrophy, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure. The research aimed to investigate the cardioprotection of LOS, DIZE, and their combination in the case of levothyroxine (LT4)-induced cardiomyopathy in rats. Hyperthyroidism was induced by LT4 in drinking water (12mg/L) for 28 days. LOS (10mg/kg, orally) and/or DIZE (15mg/kg, subcutaneously) were administrated in rats with hyperthyroidism for 28 days. Decreased serum creatine kinase myoglobin and lactate dehydrogenase levels and cardiac hypertrophy by DIZE and combination therapy in hyperthyroidism rats have been reported. Cardiac hemodynamic findings showed that DIZE and its combination with LOS decreased the LT4-mediated left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), rate pressure product (RPP), and RPP recovery percentage. Elevated cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation were confirmed by decreasing cardiac superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and increasing the total oxidative stress and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. SOD activity and TNF-α level were reversed by LOS and DIZE administration, respectively. Generally, DIZE and combination therapy with LOS improved cardiac dysfunction caused by hyperthyroidism in rats, whereas LOS alone has not been able to effectively respond to this dysfunction.

Isoenzyme characterization of Leishmania infantum toward checking the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase

BackgroundLeishmania infantum is the major causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis in Mediterranean regions. Isoenzyme electrophoresis (IE), as a biochemical technique, is applied in the characterization of Leishmania species. The current study attempted to investigate the isoenzyme patterns of logarithmic and stationary promastigotes and axenic amastigotes (amastigote-like) of L. infantum using IE. The antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) was also checked in the aforementioned forms.MethodAfter L. infantum cultivation and obtaining logarithmic and stationary promastigotes, axenic amastigotes were achieved by incubation of stationary promastigotes at 37 °C for 48 h. The lysate samples were prepared and examined for six enzymatic systems including glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), nucleoside hydrolase 1 (NH1), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), glucose-phosphate isomerase (GPI), malic enzyme (ME), and phosphoglucomutase (PGM). Additionally, the antioxidant activity of SOD and GPX was measured.ResultsGPI, MDH, NH1, and G6PD enzymatic systems represented different patterns in logarithmic and stationary promastigotes and axenic amastigotes of L. infantum. PGM and ME showed similar patterns in the aforementioned forms of parasite. The highest level of SOD activity was determined in the axenic amastigote form and GPX activity was not detected in different forms of L. infantum.ConclusionThe characterization of leishmanial-isoenzyme patterns and the measurement of antioxidant activity of crucial antioxidant enzymes, including SOD and GPX, might reveal more information in the biology, pathogenicity, and metabolic pathways of Leishmania parasites and consequently drive to designing novel therapeutic strategies in leishmaniasis treatment.

Efficacy of nutritional selenium nanoparticles on growth performance, immune response, antioxidant capacity, expression of growth and immune-related genes, and post-stress recovery in juvenile Sobaity seabream (Sparidentex hasta)

This study evaluated the impacts of nano-Se on the growth, immunity, antioxidant capacity, physiological parameters, gene expression, and stress resistance of fingerling Sobaity seabream (Sparidentex hasta). The fish with an average weight of 21.5 ± 0.1 g were divided into four treatment groups in triplicates that received one of the test diets supplemented with varying levels of nano-Se: 0 (control), 0.5 (Se-0.5), 1 (Se-1), and 2 (Se-2) mg/Kg for 60 days. The results showed that final weight, weight gain rate, specific growth rate, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio improved with significant linear and quadratic trends (P < 0.05) in response to nano-Se-supplemented diets, and the best values were measured in the Se-2 group. Superoxide dismutase activity level remained unaffected among the four groups (P > 0.05). Catalase activity increased in nano-Se-supplemented groups, with the highest level measured in fish fed the Se-0.5 diet. Glutathione peroxidase activity levels were not significantly different between the control and nano-Se groups, but the lowest malondialdehyde concentration was detected in the Se-2 group. Nano-Se had no marked effect on total plasma Ig levels; however, the highest lysozyme activity and alternative complement activity (ACH50) were observed in the Se-0.5 and Se-2 groups, respectively. No significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, triglyceride, and thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) contents among the groups. However, the lowest cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein values and the highest high-density lipoprotein concentration were measured in the Se-2 group. The Se-0.5 and Se-1 groups exhibited significantly lower levels of aspartate aminotransferase activity, and the lowest alkaline phosphatase activity level was detected in the Se-1 group. The expression level of insulin-like growth factor I gene in all nano-Se-fed groups was significantly higher than the control. Also, the expression of interleukin-1β and lysozyme genes was significantly upregulated in nano-Se-supplemented groups, with the highest values in the Se-2 group. Following acute crowding stress, plasma cortisol and lactate levels at all post-stress time intervals were not significantly different among the experimental groups. Fish fed the Se-0.5 and Se-2 diets tended to have lower plasma glucose concentrations than other groups. In conclusion, dietary nano-Se at 2 mg/kg is recommended to promote growth performance and enhance antioxidant and immune parameters in Sobaity juveniles.

Regulatory effect of pipecolic acid (Pip) on the antioxidant system activity of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum plants exposed to bacterial treatment.

The presented study aims to elucidate the regulatory role of Pipecolic acid (Pip) in modulating the antioxidant system activity of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum plants exposed to Pseudomonas syringae infestation. M. crystallinum, known for its semi-halophytic nature, can transition its metabolism from C3 to CAM under salt stress conditions. The research encompasses the antioxidant system of the plants, covering both enzymatic and low molecular weight components. The findings indicate that Pip supplementation confers a beneficial effect on certain elements of the antioxidant system when the plants are subjected to stress induced by bacteria. Notably, during critical periods, particularly in the initial days post-bacterial treatment, M. crystallinum plants supplemented with Pip and exhibiting C3 metabolism display heightened total antioxidant capacity. This enhancement includes increased superoxide dismutase activity and elevated levels of glutathione and proline. However, in plants with salinity-induced CAM, where these parameters are naturally higher, the supplementation of Pip does not yield significant effects. These results validate the hypothesis that the regulatory influence of Pip on defence mechanisms against biotic stress is contingent upon the metabolic state of the plant. Furthermore, this regulatory effect is more pronounced in C3 plants of M. crystallinum than those undergoing CAM metabolism induced by salinity stress.

Effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on cisplatin-induced memory impairment and brain oxidative stress status in male rats.

Studies have shown the complications of chemotherapy on learning and memory. Empirical evidence suggests that Nigella sativa (NS) has neuroprotective activities. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the effects of NS on cisplatin-induced memory impairment. This study was conducted on 40 male rats grouped as: control (saline: 2 ml/kg, intraperitoneally (IP), once weekly/2 weeks), cisplatin (Cis, 2 mg/kg, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), NS (200 mg/kg, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), Cis +NS 200 (2 mg/kg Cis + 200 mg/kg NS, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), and Cis +NS 400 (2 mg/kg Cis + 400 mg/kg NS, IP, once weekly/2 weeks). Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to assess spatial learning and memory. In addition, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and thiol and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated in the brain. Cis significantly enhanced the traveled distance and time spent in the target quadrant in the MWM test. Additionally, MDA levels increased in the Cis group, while thiol and SOD decreased in this group. As a result of treatment with NS, behavioral results were reversed in the groups receiving NS compared to the Cis group. Also, NS reduced MDA level but improved SOD and thiol levels in brain tissue samples. NS could improve memory impairment and oxidative stress in animals receiving Cis. Therefore, NS could be used as a potential food supplement to prevent neurotoxicity in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Effect of vinpocetine against acrylamide-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Vinpocetine (VIN) is a synthetic drug derived from the natural alkaloid vincamine. The antioxidation and anti-inflammation effects of VIN allow it to be used for multiple therapeutic purposes. So, the research aims to discover the possibility of using VIN to improve the nephrotoxicity of acrylamide (ACR). Twenty-four male albino rats were used in the trial: rats in the control group received 0.5 mL of oral saline, rats in the VIN group received an oral dose of VIN (5 mg/kg), rats in the ACR group received an oral dose of ACR (38.27 mg/kg), and rats in the VIN + ACR group received VIN and then ACR 1 h later. Rat blood and kidneys were collected 10 days after the experiment began to assess biochemical parameters and to examine both renal histopathological and immunohistochemistry. The ACR-treated rats showed high levels of serum kidney function biomarkers (creatinine, urea, and uric acid), serum protein biomarkers (total protein, albumin, and globulin), renal kidney injury molecule (KIM)-1, renal malondialdehyde (MDA), and renal caspase-3 immunoexpression. Moreover, ACR lowed both renal superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and renal glutathione (GSH) level and caused renal histological alterations. While administration of VIN improved serum kidney function biomarkers, serum protein biomarkers, renal KIM-1, renal oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, SOD, and GSH), renal caspase-3 immunoexpression, and renal histological alterations induced by ACR. The study confirmed the ability of VIN to reduce the nephrotoxic effects of ACR, which was evident through the results of biochemical parameters and histological and immunohistochemical examinations of the kidney tissues.

Ivermectin ameliorates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in male rats by inhibiting the inflammation and oxidative stress

Background Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a pulmonary fibrotic disease characterized by a poor prognosis, which its pathogenesis involves the accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Ivermectin, a positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptor, exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in preclinical studies. The present study investigates the potential protective effects of ivermectin treatment in rats against bleomycin-induced IPF. Materials and Methods The present study involved 42 male Wistar rats, which were divided into five groups: control (without induction of IPF), bleomycin (IPF-induced by bleomycin 2.5 mg/kg, by intratracheal administration), and three fibrosis groups receiving ivermectin (0.5, 1, and 3 mg/kg). lung tissues were harvested for measurement of oxidative stress [via myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH)] and inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], interleukin-1β [IL-1β], and transforming growth factor-β [TGF-β]). Histological assessments of tissue damage were performed using hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome staining methods. Results The induction of fibrosis via bleomycin was found to increase levels of MPO as well as TNF-α, IL-1β, and TGF-β while decrease SOD activity and GSH level. Treatment with ivermectin at a dosage of 3 mg/kg was able to reverse the effects of bleomycin-induced fibrosis on these markers. In addition, results from H&E and Masson’s trichrome staining showed that ivermectin treatment at this same dose reduced tissue damage and pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusion The data obtained from this study indicate that ivermectin may have therapeutic benefits for IPF, likely due to its ability to reduce inflammation and mitigate oxidative stress-induced toxicity.

Mitochondria-Targeted Nitronyl Nitroxide Radical Nanoparticles for Protection against Radiation-Induced Damage with Antioxidant Effects.

Radiotherapy is a non-invasive method that is widely applied to treat and alleviate cancers. However, radiation-induced effects in the immune system are associated with several side effects via an increase in oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. Therefore, it is imperative to develop effective clinical radiological protection strategies for the radiological protection of the normal organs and immune system in these patients. To explore more effective radioprotective agents with minimal toxicity, a mitochondria-targeted nitronyl nitroxide radical with a triphenylphosphine ion (TPP-NIT) was synthesized and its nanoparticles (NPs-TPP-NIT) were prepared and characterized. The TPP-NIT nanoparticles (NPs-TPP-NIT) were narrow in their size distribution and uniformly distributed; they showed good drug encapsulation efficiency and a low hemolysis rate (<3%). The protective effect of NPs-TPP-NIT against X-ray irradiation-induced oxidative damage was measured in vitro and in vivo. The results show that NPs-TPP-NIT were associated with no obvious cytotoxicity to L-02 cells when the concentration was below 1.5 × 10-2 mmol. NPs-TPP-NIT enhanced the survival rate of L-02 cells significantly under 2, 4, 6, and 8 Gy X-ray radiation exposure; the survival rate of mice was highest after 6 Gy X-ray irradiation. The results also show that NPs-TPP-NIT could increase superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) levels after the L-02 cells were exposed to 6.0 Gy of X-ray radiation. Moreover, NPs-TPP-NIT could significantly inhibit cell apoptosis. NPs-TPP-NIT significantly increased the mouse survival rate after irradiation. NPs-TPP-NIT displayed a marked ability to reduce the irradiation-induced depletion of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets (PLTs). These results demonstrate the feasibility of using NPs-TPP-NIT to provide protection from radiation-induced damage. In conclusion, this study revealed that NPs-TPP-NIT may be promising radioprotectors and could therefore be applied to protect healthy tissues and organs from radiation during the treatment of cancer with radiotherapy.

Thermoregulation and antioxidant defense mechanisms in Eurasian tree sparrows (Passer montanus) under acute heat stress

Global warming has become an undeniable fact, and the frequent occurrence of extremely hot weather is a serious challenge to the survival of animals. As one of the most active components of the ecosystem, birds are sensitive to the constant changes in the climate and environment. To investigate the physiological responses of Eurasian tree sparrows (Passer montanus) to acute heat stress, various thermogenic parameters of the birds, which included resting metabolic rate (RMR), body mass, body temperature, water intake, and liver cellular metabolic capacity, were measured after exposure to 42°C for different times. The antioxidant response of Eurasian tree sparrows to heat stress was investigated by measuring the lipid oxidation indexes and related antioxidant oxidase activities in the serum and liver. Body temperature and water intake were significantly increased after 2 h of heat stress and lasted until the end of the heat stress (12 h). In contrast, RMR was significantly decreased after 2 h of heat stress. At the cellular level, liver COX activity was significantly increased during heat stress from 2 h to 6 h. Additionally, there was a significant increase in MDA content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity levels in the serum. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity in the liver was significantly decreased after 2 h of heat stress. Our results indicated that heat production decreased while heat dissipation increased in Eurasian tree sparrows exposed to acute heat stress. At the same time, the internal antioxidant defense system of the birds was activated to counteract the damage caused by high temperatures. Therefore, it was reasonable to speculate that Eurasian tree sparrows might be resistant to high temperatures to the extent that they can maintain normal life activities through the regulation of thermogenic and antioxidant systems under acute heat stress.

Wound healing effects of dexpanthenol-loaded core/shell electrospun nanofibers: Implication of oxidative stress in wound healing.

Knowing the detrimental role of oxidative stress in wound healing and the anti-oxidant properties of Dexpanthenol (Dex), we aimed to produce Dex-loaded electrospun core/shell nanofibers for wound healing study. The novelty was measuring oxidative stress in wounds to know how oxidative stress was affected by Dex-loaded fibers. TPVA solution containing Dex 6% (w/v) (core) and PVA/chitosan solution (shell) were coaxially electrospun with variable injection rates of the shell solution. Fibers were then tested for physicochemical properties, drug release profile, and effects on wound healing. Levels of tissue lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase activity were measured. Fibers produced at shell injection rate of 0.3 ml/hr (F3 fibers) showed core/shell structure with an average diameter of 252 nm, high hydrophilicity (swelling: 157% at equilibrium), and low weight loss (13.6%). Dex release from F3 fibers seemed to be ruled by the Fickian mechanism based on the Korsmeyer-Peppas model (R2 = 0.94, n = 0.37). Dex-loaded F3 fibers promoted fibroblast viability (128.4%) significantly on day 5 and also accelerated wound healing compared to the neat F3 fibers at macroscopic and microscopic levels on day 14 post-wounding. The important finding was a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (0.39 nmol/ mg protein) level and an increase in superoxide dismutase (5.29 unit/mg protein) activity in Dex-loaded F3 fiber-treated wound tissues. Dex-loaded core/shell fibers provided nano-scale scaffolds with sustained release profile that significantly lowered tissue oxidative stress. This finding pointed to the importance of lowering oxidative stress to achieve proper wound healing.

Deleterious Effects of Caffeine Consumption on Reproductive Functions of Female Wistar Rats.

The deleterious effects of caffeine consumption on reproductive functions of female Wistar rats were investigated in this study. In this experimental study, 35 female Wistar rats (180-200g) were divided into 7 groups: Control, II-IV received oral caffeine (10, 20, and 40mg/kg/day respectively) for 21 days. V-VII received similar caffeine doses for 21 days, followed by a 21-day withdrawal period. The ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uteri were assessed for levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activity using spectrophotometry. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels were measured by ELISA. Organ histology was performed using microscopy. Statistical analysis employed ANOVA with significance at p<0.05. Caffeine caused dose-dependent increases in MDA, NO, and catalase activity in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uteri which decreased upon withdrawal. GSH levels in the ovary and fallopian tubes decreased with caffeine intake but recovered during withdrawal. Caffeine reduced estradiol levels in a dose-dependent manner, its withdrawal led to reductions in serum LH at 20 and 40mg/kg/day and FSH at 40mg/kg/day. Histology revealed dose-dependent alterations in ovarian architecture with congested connective tissues. Caffeine caused sloughing of plicae in the muscularis of the fallopian tubes, degenerated epithelial layer in the uterus, and severe inflammation of the myometrial stroma cells that persisted during caffeine withdrawal. Caffeine consumption adversely impacted the female reproductive functions of rats, altering hormonal balance and organ structure which persisted even after caffeine withdrawal.

Mercury removal by Aquarius palifolius (Nees & Mart.) Christenh. & Byng: Isotherms model, superoxide dismutase activity, and chlorophyll content

Mercury is one of the heavy metals that became a global threat in this industrialization era. Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining activities are the leading cause of this mercury pollution. Sustainable and environmentally friendly methods can be a solution to overcome this problem. Bioremediation methods use plants with defense mechanisms against mercury, namely Mexican sword plants or Aquarius palifolius, which is a promising solution. This research aimed to analyze the isotherm model of mercury content in A. palifolius in the Free Water Surface-Constructed Wetland (FWS-CW) reactor using the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm equations; analyzed the activity of antioxidant enzymes in A. palifolius such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD); and also analyzed the effect of mercury stress on chlorophyll levels in A. palifolius. This research shows that the mercury phytoremediation process by A. palifolius is more suitable with the Langmuir isotherm model. There are no significant differences in SOD activity and chlorophyll levels between A. palifolius with and without mercury concentration. This indicates that A. palifolius is a hyperaccumulator plant that can survive in mercury stress conditions and even remove mercury from contaminated water.

Study of age-related changes in plasma metabolites and enzyme activity of healthy small dogs that underwent medical checkups.

In Japan, the importance of medical checkups for pet dogs is increasing. In this study, we retrospectively explored the effects of age on plasma biomarkers in healthy small dogs that underwent medical checkups. Based on the modified American Animal Hospital Association Canine Life Stage Guidelines, 52 healthy small dogs were divided into 3 groups according to their life stage: young adult (1-4 years old), mature adult (5-11 years old), senior (12-15 years old). None of the dogs were obese. Plasma was collected from animals that underwent medical checkups at Muromi Animal Hospital (Fukuoka, Japan). Plasma glucose, triglyceride (TG), total protein, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, total cholesterol, and albumin concentrations; alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities; c-reactive protein (CRP), non-esterified fatty acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), serum amyloid A (SAA), insulin, and adiponectin (ADN) concentrations; glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities; and M/L ratio (MDH/LDH) were examined. Changes in the abovementioned plasma biomarker levels were compared between canines in different life stages. Plasma ADN concentrations and GPx, SOD, and MDH activities significantly decreased with age, whereas plasma ALP, BUN, TG, and MDA concentrations gradually increased. Plasma SAA levels measured by the latex agglutination method in 51 of the 52 small dogs that underwent medical checkups were below the detection limit. Plasma ADN concentrations, GPx, SOD activity, and BUN levels may be important biomarkers for clarifying the effect of age in healthy dogs that undergo medical checkups. However, plasma SAA values obtained by the latex agglutination method were not considered an age-related inflammation marker for healthy dogs.

Evening primrose oil ameliorates tissue architecture, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in the pancreas of diabetic rats: Possible role of miR-21.

Activating apoptosis and oxidative stress contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetes. Evening primrose oil (EPO) has been shown to regulate lipid profiles and hyperglycemia under metabolic conditions. This study aimed to examine the effect of EPO on miR-21 expression, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and histological changes in the pancreas of male rats with experimental diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Thirty-two Wistar rats were divided into four distinct groups: control, diabetic, diabetic + EPO, and EPO. EPO was administered orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg, and STZ was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 35 mg/kg for 28 days. In the end, the effects of treatments were assessed by measuring expressions of miR-21 in the pancreas with real-time PCR, pancreatic histological and immunohistochemical changes examinations, and oxidative stress assessment. In the diabetic group, miR-21 expression and the levels of caspase-3 and malondialdehyde (MDA) were increased compared to the control group, while insulin expression and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) levels were decreased significantly. Treatment with EPO resulted in a reduction of miR-21 and caspase-3 expression, as well as MDA levels, and an increase in insulin expression and SOD levels compared to the diabetic group. Additionally, supplementation with EPO demonstrated the ability to restore pancreatic tissue features, serum insulin levels, and blood glucose fluctuations. Collectively, the protective impacts of EPO in diabetic rats may be linked to the inhibition of miR-21/caspase-3/oxidative stress pathway, leading to the restoration of pancreatic β-cell function and structure.