Superoxide Dismutase Gene Research Articles

The superoxide dismutase (SOD) genes family mediates the response of Nilaparvata lugens to jinggangmycin and sugar.

Introduction: Brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens Stål (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), is a major rice pest causing significant damage to rice throughout the world. Intensive pesticide usage often causes resistance in these seasonal pests, mainly through the modulation of antioxidant machinery. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) gene family is known for regulating BPH response to pesticides. Methods: In the present study, we identified eight NlSOD genes from the NCBI using the BLASTP program. The bioinformatics analysis includes a phylogenetic tree, conserved domain, motifs, gene ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathways, and protein-protein interaction, highlighting the distinctive functional elements of NlSOD genes. Results and discussion: Additionally, the NlSOD genes showed expression in all developmental stages of BPH. Under three sugars (glucose, sucrose, and trehalose) treatment, the respective upregulation of NlSOD8, NlSOD6, and NlSOD2 was noted. The NlSOD1 induced significantly under jinggamycin (JGM) deduced its potential as a key regulator of BPH response to the pesticide. Our study has provided detailed knowledge of the NlSOD gene family in-silico analysis and the defensive response to insecticide and high sugar of BPH. We hope the results of this research will help to shed light on the resistance of BPH towards insecticide toxicity and high sugar and help to control it more efficiently.

Effect of continuous dietary administration of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, Δmnn9, on Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) juveniles: Immunological and histopathological findings after Vibrio coralliilyticus challenge

Yeast cells and their cell wall components, mainly β-glucans, are strong immunostimulants in bivalves, however, it remains unclear whether long-term administration of yeast contributes to prolonged activity of bivalve immune systems. Understanding these innate immune mechanisms is essential to establishing feeding strategies and disease prevention in hatcheries and nurseries. The present study examined the immunostimulatory effect of continuous dietary supply of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae mnn9 mutant (∆mnn9), which exhibits elevated exposure of β-glucans on the cell-wall surface, on Crassostrea gigas juveniles, and its protective effect against Vibrio coralliilyticus infections. In trial 1 the expression levels of immune-related genes were determined in oysters fed the ∆mnn9-containing diet 50A50Y (50% algae, 50% ∆mnn9; based on dry weight), compared to those fed the 100% algae-based diet (100A), after 6, 9, 12, 18, 24 h of feeding. In trial 2: the feeding period was expanded to 8 days, where the algal diet (100A) was provided every day, but substituted with 50A50Y for 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 days (treatments 0D (control), 1D, 2D, 4D, and 8D, respectively) just before a Vibrio challenge, which was monitored for 7 days. Gene expression was measured before and 24-h after the Vibrio challenge. Histological analysis was performed on oysters on day 7 post-Vibrio challenge. Results showed that 50A50Y induced upregulation of interleukin 17–5 (CgIL17–5; 6 h), lysozyme (CgLys; 6 and 9 h), β-glucan-binding protein (CgβGBP; 18 h), and superoxide dismutase (CgSOD; 18 and 24 h) genes in juveniles (trial 1). Before the challenge, trial 2 demonstrated overexpression of CgSOD in animals from 1D, CgLys in those from 1D, 2D, and 4D, but not in oysters from 8D, compared to those from 0D. However, higher CgIL17–5 expression levels were observed in animals from 2D, 4D, and 8D, suggesting that inflammatory genes can remain inducible after 8 days of ∆mnn9 feeding. After the Vibrio challenge, a significantly higher survival was observed in animals from 1D (35.8%), 2D (45.0%), 4D (49.2%), but not 8D (25.8%), compared to the survival of animals from 0D (16.7%). These findings suggest that regulatory feedback mechanisms occurring during continuous ∆mnn9 feeding might lead to host tolerance or homeostasis. Also, we showed that V. coralliilyticus promotes overexpression of CgβGBP, C-type lectin receptor (CgCLec-3), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (CgMyD88), nuclear factor-kappa B (CgNFκB), CgLys, and CgSOD genes in oysters at 24-h post-exposure. Finally, this study provides insights into histopathological manifestations in the digestive tract, muscles, and gills of Vibrio-infected oysters.

Effects of Broflanilide on Oxidative Stress and Expression of Apoptotic Genes in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Gill.

Broflanilide exerted negative impacts on the gill of zebrafish. Thus, in this study, zebrafish gill was used to assess the apoptosis toxicity of broflanilide by determining the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and apoptosis-related genes. The results found that the minimum threshold for the content and time of broflanilide affecting enzyme content and gene expression was 0.26mg/L after 24h exposure. After 96h exposure, broflanilide could cause apoptosis and exerted significantly increased contents of ROS and MDA, while inhibiting the activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx at 0.26 and 0.57mg/L. Broflanilide also had adverse effects on apoptosis-related genes, such as tumor protein p53 (p53), associated × (Bax), B-cell lymphama-2 (Bcl-2), caspase-3, caspase-9, and apoptotic protease activating factor-1(apaf-1), at 0.26mg/L and 0.57mg/L after 96h exposure, respectively. These results provide new insight into the potential toxicity mechanisms of broflanilide in zebrafish gills.

The Effect of Cadmium on Plants in Terms of the Response of Gene Expression Level and Activity.

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that can cause damage to living organisms at different levels. Even at low concentrations, Cd can be toxic to plants, causing harm at multiple levels. As they are unable to move away from areas contaminated by Cd, plants have developed various defence mechanisms to protect themselves. Hyperaccumulators, which can accumulate and detoxify heavy metals more efficiently, are highly valued by scientists studying plant accumulation and detoxification mechanisms, as they provide a promising source of genes for developing plants suitable for phytoremediation techniques. So far, several genes have been identified as being upregulated when plants are exposed to Cd. These genes include genes encoding transcription factors such as iron-regulated transporter-like protein (ZIP), natural resistance associated macrophage protein (NRAMP) gene family, genes encoding phytochelatin synthases (PCs), superoxide dismutase (SOD) genes, heavy metal ATPase (HMA), cation diffusion facilitator gene family (CDF), Cd resistance gene family (PCR), ATP-binding cassette transporter gene family (ABC), the precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid synthase (ACS) and precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (ACO) multigene family are also influenced. Thanks to advances in omics sciences and transcriptome analysis, we are gaining more insights into the genes involved in Cd stress response. Recent studies have also shown that Cd can affect the expression of genes related to antioxidant enzymes, hormonal pathways, and energy metabolism.

Stress memory in seedlings of primed seed chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) using sodium nitroprusside under cold stress

Pea cultivation has been developed as a rich source of protein in many countries. The spring cultivation of chickpeas has low performance and efficiency due to the short length of the growth period and the confrontation of the reproductive period with drought and high temperature stress. Autumn cultivation of chickpeas is introduced as an important solution in reducing the yield caused by high temperature and drought stress during the flowering time of spring cultivation. However, in autumn cultivation, sensitivity to cold is the main limitation. So, the present study was performed to investigate the effect of nitric oxide on stress memory due to seed priming with sodium nitroprusside for cold tolerance of chickpea seedlings under simulated autumn temperatures. This experiment was conducted as a factorial in a completely randomized design with nine replicates at the Research Center for Plant Sciences of Ferdowsi University, Mashhad Iran, in 2020. Experimental factors included seed priming at two levels (control and sodium nitroprusside) and chickpea cultivars, including a susceptible genotype (MCC505) and a cold-tolerant cultivar (Saral). This experiment evaluated the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase) in the seedling stage. The results revealed that superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase genes were expressed in sodium nitroprusside and control treatments. In the Saral cultivar, sodium nitroprusside increased the gene expression of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase enzymes by 29, 88, 54, and 63%, respectively. On the other hand, the gene expression of these enzymes in the control treatment may be due to the effect of temperature on them. There was a significant increase in the expression of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase genes in the Saral cultivar compared to the MCC505 genotype. In general, sodium nitroprusside increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the Saral cultivar through the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes.

Melatonin alleviates ovarian function damage and oxidative stress induced by dexamethasone in the laying hens through FOXO1 signaling pathway

Oxidative stress can trigger follicular atresia, and decrease follicles quantity in each development stage, thereby alleviating reproductive activity. The induction of oxidative stress in chickens through intraperitoneal injection of dexamethasone is a reliable and stable method. Melatonin has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress in this model, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether melatonin can recover aberrant antioxidant status induced by dexamethasone and the specific mechanism behind melatonin-dependent protection. A total of 150 healthy 40-wk-old Dawu Jinfeng laying hens with similar body weights and laying rates were randomly divided into three groups, with five replicates per group and 10 hens per replicate. The hens in the control group (NS) received intraperitoneal injections of normal saline for 30 d, the dexamethasone group (Dex+NS) received 20 mg/kg dose of dexamethasone for the first 15 d, followed by the 15 d of normal saline treatment. While in the melatonin group (Dex+Mel), dexamethasone (20 mg/kg dose) was injected intraperitoneally in the first 15 d, and melatonin (20 mg/kg/d) was injected in the last 15 d. The results showed that dexamethasone treatment significantly enhanced oxidative stress (P < 0.05), while melatonin not only inhibited the oxidative stress but also notably enhanced the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and antioxidant genes CAT, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), and recombinant peroxiredoxin 3(PRDX3) expression (P < 0.05). Melatonin treatment also markedly reduced 8-hydroxy deoxyguanosine(8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels (P < 0.05) and apoptotic genes Caspase-3, Bim, and Bax in the follicle. In the Dex+Mel group, the Bcl-2 and SOD1 protein levels were also increased (P < 0.05). Melatonin inhibited the forkhead Box Protein O1(FOXO1) gene and its protein expression (P < 0.05). In general, this investigation revealed that melatonin might decrease oxidative stress and ROS by enhancing antioxidant enzymes and genes, activating the antiapoptotic genes, and inhibiting the FOXO1 pathway in laying hens.

Effects of Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor on Pancreatic Oxidative Damage of Mice at Different Growth Periods.

The bioactive components in soybeans have significant physiological functions. However, the intake of soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI) may cause metabolic disorders. To investigate the effect of STI intake on pancreatic injury and its mechanism of action, a five-week animal experiment was conducted, meanwhile, a weekly monitor on the degree of oxidation and antioxidant indexes in the serum and pancreas of the animals was carried out. The results showed that the intake of STI had irreversible damage to the pancreas, according to the analysis of the histological section. Malondialdehyde (MDA) in the pancreatic mitochondria of Group STI increased significantly and reached a maximum (15.7 nmol/mg prot) in the third week. Meanwhile, the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), trypsin (TPS), and somatostatin (SST) were decreased and reached minimum values (10 U/mg prot, 87 U/mg prot, 2.1 U/mg prot, 10 pg/mg prot) compared with the Group Control. The RT-PCR results of the expression of SOD, GSH-Px, TPS, and SST genes were consistent with the above. This study demonstrates that STI causes oxidative structural damage and pancreatic dysfunction by inducing oxidative stress in the pancreas, which could increase with time.

Modulatory effect of thymol on the immune response and susceptibility to Aeromonas hydrophila infection in Nile tilapia fish exposed to zinc oxide nanoparticles

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have many exciting properties that make their use in a continuous increase in various biomedical, industrial, and agricultural applications. This is associated with accumulation in the aquatic ecosystems and fish exposure with consequent deleterious effects. To determine the potential of thymol to counteract the immunotoxic effects of ZnO-NPs, Oreochromis niloticus was exposed to ZnO-NPs (⅕ LC50 =1.14 mg/L, for 28 days) with or without feeding a thymol-incorporated diet (1 or 2 g/kg diet). Our data demonstrated a reduction of aquaria water quality, leukopenia, and lymphopenia with a decrease in serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels in exposed fish. At the same time, the stress indices (cortisol and glucose) were elevated in response to ZnO-NPs exposure. The exposed fish also revealed a decline in serum immunoglobulins, nitric oxide, and the activities of lysozyme and myeloperoxidase, in addition to reduced resistance to the Aeromonas hydrophila challenge. The RT-PCR analysis showed downregulation of antioxidant (SOD) superoxide dismutase and (CAT) catalase gene expression in the liver tissue with overexpression of the immune-related genes (TNF-α and IL-1β). Importantly, we found that thymol markedly protected against ZnO-NPs-induced immunotoxicity in fish co-supplemented with thymol (1 or 2 g/kg diet) in a dose-dependent manner. Our data confirm the immunoprotective and antibacterial effects of thymol in ZnO-NPs exposed fish, supporting the potential utility of thymol as a possible immunostimulant agent.

Interdependencies of Gene Expression and Function between Two Redox Enzymes and REG Family Proteins in Murine Pancreatic Islets and Human Pancreatic Cells.

Our laboratory previously revealed that regenerating islets-derived protein 2 (REG2) was diminished in pancreatic islets of glutathione peroxidase-1-overexpressing mice (Gpx1-OE). It remained unknown if there is an inverse relationship between the expression and function of all Reg family genes and antioxidant enzymes in the pancreatic islets or human pancreatic cells. This research was to determine how altering the Gpx1 and superoxide dismutase-1 (Sod1) genes alone or together (dKO) affected the expression of all seven murine Reg genes in murine pancreatic islets. In Experiment 1, Gpx1-/-, Gpx1-OE, their wild-type (WT), Sod1-/-, dKO, and their WT (male, 8-wk old, n = 4-6) were fed a Se-adequate diet and their islets were collected to assay the mRNA levels of Reg family genes. In Experiment 2, islets from the six groups of mice were treated with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), REG2, or REG2 mutant protein (1 µg/mL), and/or GPX mimic (ebselen, 50 µM) and SOD mimic (copper [II] diisopropyl salicylate, CuDIPS, 10 µM) for 48 h before the proliferation assay using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). In Experiment 3, human pancreatic cells (PANC1) were treated with REG2 (1 µg/mL) and assayed for REG gene expression, GPX1 and SOD1 activities, viability, and responses to Ca2+. Compared with the WT, knockouts of Gpx1 and/or Sod1 up-regulated (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels of most of the murine Reg genes in islets whereas the Gpx1 overexpression down-regulated (p < 0.05) Reg mRNA levels. REG2, but not the REG2 mutant, inhibited islet proliferation in Gpx1 or Sod1-altered mice. Such inhibition was abolished by co-incubation the Gpx1-/- islets with ebselen and the Sod1-/- islets with CuDIPS. Treating PANC1 cells with murine REG2 protein induced expression of its human orthologue REG1B and three other REG genes, but decreased SOD1 and GPX1 activities and cell viability. In conclusion, our results revealed an interdependence of REG family gene expression and/or function on intracellular GPX1 and SOD1 activities in murine islets and human pancreatic cells.

Propolis consumption by asymptomatic HIV-individuals: Better redox state? A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Propolis is a natural product has many biological properties of clinical interest, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Considering that people living with HIV/aids (PLWHA) on effective combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) present early aging due to an intense immune activation, inflammation, and redox imbalance, propolis consumption could offer a benefit to such patients. This double-blind longitudinal study evaluated whether Brazilian green propolis pills intake (500 mg/day for three months) would decrease the oxidative stress of virological suppressed HIV-individuals. To compare each group (propolis, n = 20 versus placebo, n = 20) in both moments (M0, before and M1, after the intervention), the following markers were assessed: plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonylation, total oxide nitric, total antioxidant capacity (TAP), superoxide dismutase, catalase, and NFkB and NRF2 gene expression. Data were analyzed using Poisson, Gamma distribution and ANOVA followed by Tukey-Kramer. The groups were homogeneous regarding age, gender, time of diagnosis/ treatment, cART scheme, CD4+ T cell count, and no changes were observed in the diet food, or patients’ lifestyles. A decreased MDA concentration was seen in the propolis group (M0 = 0.24 ± 0.13, M1 = 0.20 ± 0.10 protein nmol/mg; p = 0.005) as well as a slight but non-significant increase of TAP (M0 = 49.07 ± 13.26, M1 = 52.27 ± 14.86%; p = 0.06). One may conclude that propolis promoted a lower lipid peroxidation and improved the antioxidant system, suggesting that its use may be beneficial to PLWHA in an attempt to contain the intense inflammatory and oxidant activity.

Dietary Chlorella vulgaris effectively alleviates oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and enhances the resistance to Streptococcus agalactiae infection in cadmium-intoxicated Nile tilapia fingerlings

Aquatic pollutants, including cadmium (Cd), cause oxidative stress on aquatic animals. The use of probiotics, including microalgae as a feed additive to alleviate the toxic impacts of heavy metals, is a much more interesting point. Hence, the current study investigated the oxidative stress and immunosuppression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings caused by Cd toxicity as well as the preventive function of dietary Chlorella vulgaris against Cd toxicity. Accordingly, fish were fed on 0.0 (control), 5, and 15 g/kg diet of Chlorella up to satiation thrice a day, along with being exposed to 0.0 or 2.5 mg Cd/L for 60 days. Following the experimental procedure, fish from each group were intraperitoneally injected with Streptococcus agalactiae, and their survivability was observed for further ten days. Chlorella-supplemented diets meaningfully (P < 0.05) boosted the antioxidative capability of fish, which was evidenced by higher activities of hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as well as higher levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) along with significant reductions in hepatic malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, the innate immunity indices [phagocytic activity (PA), respiratory burst activity (RBA), and alternative complement activity (ACH50)] were significantly higher in Chlorella-fed fish, particularly in the group of 15 g/kg diet. Additionally, serum of Chlorella-fed fish showed potent bactericidal activities against S. agalactiae, particularly at the treatment of a 15 g/kg diet. Feeding Chlorella diets to Nile tilapia fingerlings upregulated SOD, CAT, and GPx genes expression alongside the down-regulation of IL-1β, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and HSP70 genes expression. Conversely, Cd toxicity caused oxidative stress and suppressed the fish's innate immunity with upregulation of the expression of IL-1β, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and HSP70 genes. Feeding Cd-exposed fish on Chlorella-containing diets attenuated these adverse effects. The current research revealed that supplementing feeds with the treatment of 15 g/kg diet of C. vulgaris supports the antioxidant-immune responses and alleviates the Cd toxicity effects on Nile tilapia fingerlings.

Role of NF-κB/IL-1β Pathway and Caspase 3 in Mediating the Hepatoprotective Effect of Rutin against Paraquat-Induced Liver Toxicity in Male Rats.

One of the most common bipyridinium herbicides that can lead to liver toxicity is paraquat. Rutin is a bioflavonoid with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, and antimicrobial properties. The effect of rutin on paraquat-induced liver toxicity was examined in this study. 48 male rats were divided into six groups: the control group was given a normal diet; the non-treated group was given paraquat; the positive control group was given paraquat, and silymarin and the treatment groups were given paraquat and rutin at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg. After fourteen days, the rats were anesthetized by xylazine-ketamine, and fasting blood samples were obtained from their hearts to measure alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), malondialdehyde (MDA), creatinine, lipid profile, antioxidant capacity, and carbonyl protein. The liver tissue was removed to measure the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total protein, vitamin C, plus NF-κB, IL1β, and caspase-3 gene expressions. Paraquat gavage in the untreated group (group 2) for 14 days in comparison with the control group induced a significant augmentation (p<0.05) in levels of lipid profile, AST, ALP, ALT, MDA, carbonyl protein, and also NF-κB, IL1β, Caspase3 expressions. Treatment with rutin reduced the factors as mentioned above. Paraquat poisoning induced a substantial decline (p<0.05) in HDL content, FRAP level, CAT, and SOD activity of the liver compared to the control group. However, rutin oral treatment led to a substantial increase (p<0.05) in the level of these factors compared to the paraquat-only treated group. Based on the findings of the present study, it was found that rutin can be significantly effective in improving hepatotoxicity caused by paraquat.

Genetic Diversity in Natural Populations of Rhodiola Species of Different Adaptation Strategies.

Representatives of the Crassulaceae family's genus Rhodiola are succulents, making them distinctive in a changing environment. One of the most significant tools for analyzing plant resources, including numerous genetic processes in wild populations, is the analysis of molecular genetic polymorphism. This work aimed to look at the polymorphisms of allelic variations of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and auxin response factor (ARF) gene families, as well as the genetic diversity of five Rhodiola species, using the retrotransposons-based fingerprinting approach. The multi-locus exon-primed intron-crossing (EPIC-PCR) profiling approach was used to examine allelic variations in the SOD and ARF gene families. We implemented the inter-primer binding site (iPBS) PCR amplification technique for genome profiling, which demonstrated a significant level of polymorphism in the Rhodiola samples studied. Natural populations of Rhodiola species have a great capacity for adaptation to unfavorable environmental influences. The genetic variety of wild populations of Rhodiola species leads to their improved tolerance of opposing environmental circumstances and species evolutionary divergence based on the diversity of reproductive systems.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in cuticle and secretome-related genes are associated with hydrogen peroxide sensitivity in the sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi

The sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi is the main ectoparasite species affecting the salmon industry in Chile. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a chemotherapeutant frequently used for lice control, and currently considered as a non-pharmacological method. The H2O2 molecules cause the formation of bubbles in the louse's hemolymph, inducing mechanical paralysis and detaching the parasite from the host. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the response and potential resistance of the ectoparasite to this chemotherapeutant remains poorly understood. This study aimed to expand the knowledge of candidate genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) involved in the response of C. rogercresseyi to H2O2. Taken the accumulative molecular evidence concerning the molecular responses of lice exposed to delousing compounds, immune-related, antioxidant system, chemosensory receptors, secretome, and cuticle formation genes were evaluated. Herein, lice were experimentally exposed to three concentrations of H2O2 composed by 360, 744, and 1080 mg L−1. Then, novel SNPs in catalase, superoxide dismutase, serpin, cuticle-7, cuticle-19, and trypsin-5 genes were validated in samples from four lice populations with contrasting sensitivity to H2O2. Upregulation of genes related to the antioxidant system, secretome, and cuticle formation in exposed lice was observed. Notably, SNP allele frequencies and transcription analyses suggest that Cuticle-7 and Cuticle-19 genes can be applied for H2O2 sensitivity surveillance in C. rogercresseyi populations. This study contributes to a better understanding of the response to H2O2 in C. rogercresseyi and provides new insights into the potential molecular mechanisms as a chemical treatment.

Trace copper-mediated asexual development via a superoxide dismutase and induction of AobrlA in Aspergillus oryzae.

The filamentous fungus Aspergillus oryzae, in which sexual reproduction remains to be discovered, proliferates mainly via asexual spores (conidia). Therefore, despite its industrial importance in food fermentation and recombinant protein production, breeding beneficial strains by genetic crosses is difficult. In Aspergillus flavus, which is genetically close to A. oryzae, structures known as sclerotia are formed asexually, but they are also related to sexual development. Sclerotia are observed in some A. oryzae strains, although no sclerotia formation has been reported in most strains. A better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying sclerotia formation in A. oryzae may contribute to discover its sexual development. Some factors involved in sclerotia formation have been previously identified, but their regulatory mechanisms have not been well studied in A. oryzae. In this study, we found that copper strongly inhibited sclerotia formation and induced conidiation. Deletion of AobrlA encoding a core regulator of conidiation and ecdR involved in transcriptional induction of AobrlA suppressed the copper-mediated inhibition of sclerotia formation, suggesting that AobrlA induction in response to copper leads not only to conidiation but also to inhibition of sclerotia formation. In addition, deletion of the copper-dependent superoxide dismutase (SOD) gene and its copper chaperone gene partially suppressed such copper-mediated induction of conidiation and inhibition of sclerotia formation, indicating that copper regulates asexual development via the copper-dependent SOD. Taken together, our results demonstrate that copper regulates asexual development, such as sclerotia formation and conidiation, via the copper-dependent SOD and transcriptional induction of AobrlA in A. oryzae.

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of Copper Chaperone for Superoxide Dismutase (CCS) Gene Family in Response to Abiotic Stress in Soybean

Copper Chaperone For Superoxide Dismutase (CCS) genes encode copper chaperone for Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and dramatically affect the activity of SOD through regulating copper delivery from target to SOD. SOD is the effective component of the antioxidant defense system in plant cells to reduce oxidative damage by eliminating Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are produced during abiotic stress. CCS might play an important role in abiotic stress to eliminate the damage caused by ROS, however, little is known about CCS in soybean in abiotic stress regulation. In this study, 31 GmCCS gene family members were identified from soybean genome. These genes were classified into 4 subfamilies in the phylogenetic tree. Characteristics of 31 GmCCS genes including gene structure, chromosomal location, collinearity, conserved domain, protein motif, cis-elements, and tissue expression profiling were systematically analyzed. RT-qPCR was used to analyze the expression of 31 GmCCS under abiotic stress, and the results showed that 5 GmCCS genes(GmCCS5, GmCCS7, GmCCS8, GmCCS11 and GmCCS24) were significantly induced by some kind of abiotic stress. The functions of these GmCCS genes in abiotic stress were tested using yeast expression system and soybean hairy roots. The results showed that GmCCS7/GmCCS24 participated in drought stress regulation. Soybean hairy roots expressing GmCCS7/GmCCS24 showed improved drought stress tolerance, with increased SOD and other antioxidant enzyme activities. The results of this study provide reference value in-depth study CCS gene family, and important gene resources for the genetic improvement of soybean drought stress tolerance.

Clostridium butyricum improves the digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant and immunity related genes expression and intestinal microbiota of Litopenaeus vannamei fed a replacing fishmeal with cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) diet

The combined application performance of CPC and CB in shrimp diet is rarely explored. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of Clostridium butyricum (CB) on the body composition, digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant and immunity related genes expression and intestinal microbiota of Litopenaeus vannamei fed a replacing fishmeal with cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) diet. Six diets were formulated with PC group (containing 30% fishmeal), NC and NCB1–4 groups (diet replacing 30% fishmeal protein with CPC), in which NCB1–4 groups were supplemented with 0.03% (3 ×108 CFU/kg), 0.12% (1.2 ×109 CFU/kg), 0.48% (4.8 ×109 CFU/kg) and 1.92% (1.92 ×1010 CFU/kg) CB, respectively. Healthy shrimp were randomly divided into 6 groups for an 8-week feeding trial. The CB antibacterial tests in vitro showed that the CB could inhibit the growth of Vibrio harveyi and V. parahaemolyticus, and has good thermal stability and tolerance to protease, catalase and ultraviolet irradiation. In feeding trial, the crude protein of NCB4 was significantly increased and the crude lipid in NCB3 and NCB4 group were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Amylase, trypsin and lipase in hepatopancreas of NCB4 group increased significantly (P < 0.05). Muscle thickness of intestine in PC and NCB4 groups was significantly decrease (P < 0.05). Under CB supplementation, the relative expression of antioxidant-related genes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) in hepatopancreas and intestine increased significantly (P < 0.05); the relative expression of immune-related genes (toll protein, myeloid differentiation factor 88, transcription factor Dorsal, innate immune deficiency gene, transcription factor Relish, prophenoloxidase and lysozyme) in hepatopancreas and intestine increased significantly (P < 0.05). The intestinal microbiota analysis showed that CB reduced the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Tenericutes and Bacteroidetes, while increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes. Overall, shrimp supplement exceeds 3 × 108 CFU/kg had a clear benefit. Based on the relative expression of Relish in intestine, the recommended supplementation of CB is 1.37 × 1010 CFU/kg.

Genomic organization and transcription of superoxide dismutase genes (sod1, sod2, and sod3b) and response to diazinon toxicity in platyfish (Xiphophorus maculatus) by using SOD enzyme activity

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of 50% of 96 h LC50 (5.25 ppm) diazinon on the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme genes (sod1, sod2, and sod3b) and SOD enzyme activity at the end of 24, 48, 72, and 96 h in platyfish liver and gill tissues. To this end, we determined the tissue-specific distribution of sod1, sod2, and sod3b genes and performed in silico analyses in platyfish (Xiphophorus maculatus). It was determined that malondialdehyde (MDA) level and SOD enzyme activity were increased in the liver [(43.90 EU mg protein−1 (control), 62.45 EU mg protein−1 (24 h), 73.17 EU mg protein−1 (48 h), 82.18 EU mg protein−1 (72 h), 92.93 EU mg protein−1 (96 h)] and gill [(16.44 EU mg protein−1 (control), 33.47 EU mg protein−1 (24 h), 50.38 EU mg protein−1 (48 h), 64.62 EU mg protein−1 (72 h), 74.04 EU mg protein−1 (96 h)] tissues of platyfish exposed to diazinon, while the expression of the sod genes was down-regulated. The tissue-specific distribution of the sod genes varied, with the tissues and the sod genes expression were being predominant in the liver (628.32 in sod1, 637.59 in sod2, 888.5 in sod3b). Thus, the liver was considered a suitable tissue for further gene expression studies. Based on the phylogenetic analyses, platyfish sod genes can be reported to be orthologs of sod/SOD genes from other vertebrates. Identity/similarity analyses supported this determination. Conserved gene synteny proved that there are conserved sod genes in platyfish, zebrafish, and humans.

The ginsenoside Rh2 protects porcine oocytes against aging and oxidative stress by regulating SIRT1 expression and mitochondrial activity

Post-ovulatory aging, a major problem faced by oocytes cultured in vitro, causes oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in oocytes. The ginsenoside Rh2 is one of the main monomeric components of ginseng, but its effects on porcine oocytes are unknown. In the present study, in vitro aging (IVA) and accelerated induction of aging using H2O2 resulted in DNA damage and an increased incidence of abnormal spindle formation in porcine oocytes. Rh2 supplementation increased the antioxidant capacity, reduced the occurrence of early apoptosis, and improved the development of in vitro fertilized blastocysts. It also rescued the abnormal aggregation of mitochondria and the decrease of the mitochondrial membrane potential under mitochondrial dysfunction. Meanwhile, Rh2 enhanced mRNA expression of the anti-aging and mitochondrial biogenesis-related genes silent information regulator of transcription 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator 1-α (PGC-1α), and the antioxidant gene superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). The protection of porcine oocytes against aging and oxidative stress by Rh2 was confirmed using the SIRT1-specific inhibitor EX-527. Our results reveal that Rh2 upregulates SIRT1/PGC-1α to enhance mitochondrial function in porcine oocytes and improve their quality. Our study indicates that Rh2 can be used to prevent mitochondrial dysfunction in oocytes.

Analysis in silico of superoxide dismutase genes family provides insights into the evolution of this gene family in Coffea spp.

Analysis in silico of superoxide dismutase genes family provides insights into the evolution of this gene family in Coffea spp.