Toxic Effects Research Articles

Molecular docking and invitro evaluation of glucosamine sulfate targeting MMP-3, MMP-9, and IL-4 for potential osteoarthritis treatment.

This study intended to investigate the potential of glucosamine sulfate (GS) as an inhibitor of genes involved in osteoarthritis (OA) development. Despite GS is often used for OA treatment due to its cartilage preservation and minimum side effects, the molecular mechanism behind its interactions remains unknown. Molecular docking was conducted to analyze the interactions between glucosamine sulfate and genes associated with OA such as matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3), MMP-9, and interleukin-4 (IL-4). Additionally, a cell viability assay using RAW 264.7 cells was performed to evaluate the toxicity of glucosamine sulfate at various concentrations. Molecular docking results revealed that glucosamine sulfate has a good binding affinity and stable interactions with MMP-3, MMP-9, and IL-4, indicating that it may have inhibitory effects on targeted genes. Nevertheless, the cell viability assay analysis demonstrated that glucosamine sulfate had considerable toxic effects in RAW 264.7 cells at highest concentrations. Glucosamine sulfate exhibited stable molecular interactions with genes associated to OA development. However, GS toxicity at high concentrations necessitates future research studies to optimize dosing and assess its therapeutic safety in OA treatment.

Insecticidal potential of botanical extracts for management of, the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae)

BackgroundBactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) poses a significant threat to global fruit production and quality, including in Pakistan, where it causes substantial losses. Traditional control methods have heavily relied on the indiscriminate and imprudent use of insecticides, leading to challenges such as insecticide resistance, environmental pollution, fruit contamination, and health risks. This study explores the insecticidal potential of seven selected botanicals: Artemisia vulgaris L., Capparis spinosa L., Mentha longifolia, Mentha piperita, Peganum harmala, Eucalyptus globulus, and Callistemon viminalis, each at three different concentrations (10mL, 20mL, and 30mL), against Bactrocera dorsalis (B. dorsalis). Two in vitro experiments involving the application of plant extracts mixed with protein bait and direct spray were conducted.ResultsBoth experimental results demonstrated a direct correlation between the concentration of plant extract and the mortality of B. dorsalis. In the plant extract mixed with protein bait, results recorded after 96 h at 10 mL ranged from 8.667 ± 1.52–47.000 ± 3.00, at 20 mL from 18.667 ± 1.52–53.667 ± 6.02, and 30 mL from 26.000 ± 5.29- 67.667 ± 2.08. Meanwhile, for direct spray, mortality ranged from 2.333 ± 1.15–32.333 ± 6.80 at 10 mL, 1.000 ± 1.00–42.667 ± 7.02 at 20 mL, and 9.667 ± 2.30–61.333 ± 8.50 at 30 mL, respectively. The plant species exhibiting the highest toxic potential against the respective pests was C. viminalis, followed by A. vulgaris L. In contrast, the least toxic effect was observed in Eucalyptus globulus at all concentrations. The highest mean mortality and repellence % were recorded in C. viminalis and E. globulus in both experimental trials. The results revealed the highest efficacy of C. viminalis with an LC50 value of 9685.15 and 19,909.11 ppm, for the extract mixed with protein bait and sprayed, was obtained, respectively, the most toxic to the pest followed by the extracts E. globulus and C. spinosa L.ConclusionBased on our experimental results, it is concluded that C. viminalis and A. vulgaris L. are an effective alternative for the management of B. dorsalis.

Hydroxylated-Benz[a]anthracenes Induce Two Apoptosis-Related Gene Expressions in the Liver of the Nibbler Fish Girella punctata

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are known to have toxic effects on fish. In this study, we examined the effects of benz[a]anthracene (BaA), a type of PAH, on fish liver metabolism. Nibbler fish (Girella punctata) were intraperitoneally injected with BaA (10 ng/g body weight) four times over a 10-day period. BaA significantly decreased known bone metabolism-related plasma factors such as calcium and inorganic phosphorus. Moreover, significant reductions were observed in the plasma levels of known liver metabolism-related factors, including ferrous ions, total bile acids, total bilirubin, free bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Interestingly, mono-hydroxylated metabolites of BaA, such as 3 hydroxylbenz[a]anthracene (3-OHBaA), were detected in the bile of BaA-injected nibbler fish. This hydroxylated form of BaA was found in its free form, rather than conjugated with glucuronic acid or sulfuric acid. Due to the lack of whole-genome sequence data for the nibbler fish, two nibbler fish-specific apoptosis-related factors (TNF receptor superfamily member 1A: tnfrsf1a and TNF superfamily member 10: tnfsf10) were isolated by De novo RNA sequencing. In a liver tissue culture, 3-OHBaA (10−6 M) significantly upregulated the expression of tnfrsf1a and tnfsf10 in the liver. These results provide the first evidence that 3-OHBaA metabolites exhibit toxic effects on the liver in teleost.

Phenylmercury stress induces root tip swelling through auxin homeostasis disruption

We previously reported that in Arabidopsis, the phytochelatin-mediated metal-detoxification machinery is also essential for organomercurial phenylmercury (PheHg) tolerance. PheHg treatment causes severe root growth inhibition in cad1-3, an Arabidopsis phytochelatin-deficient mutant, frequently accompanied by abnormal root tip swelling. Here, we examine morphological and physiological characteristics of PheHg-induced abnormal root tip swelling in comparison to Hg(II) stress and demonstrate that auxin homeostasis disorder in the root is associated with the PheHg-induced root tip swelling. Both Hg(II) and PheHg treatments severely inhibited root growth in cad1-3 and simultaneously induced the disappearance of starch-containing plastid amyloplasts in columella cells. However, further confocal imaging of the root tip revealed distinct effects of Hg(II) and PheHg toxicity on root cell morphology. PheHg treatment suppressed most major genes involved in auxin homeostasis, whereas these expression levels were up-regulated after 24 h of Hg(II) treatment. PheHg-triggered suppression of auxin transporters PIN1, PIN2, and PIN3 as GFP-fusion proteins was observed in the root tip, accompanied by an auxin reporter DR5rev::GFP signal reduction. Supplementation of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) drastically canceled the PheHg-induced root swelling, however, Hg(II) toxicity was not mitigated by IAA. The presented results show that the collapse of auxin homeostasis especially in root tips is a cause for the abnormal root tip swelling under PheHg stress conditions.

Enhanced Anticancer Efficacy of Alkaline Plasma-Activated Water through Augmented RONS Production.

Despite notable advances in anticancer drug development, their manufacture and use pose environmental and health risks due to toxic byproducts, drug residue contamination, and cytotoxicity to normal cells. Therefore, developing cost-effective anticancer treatments with fewer toxic side effects and higher selectivity is essential to the advancement of highly effective anticancer therapies. Plasma-activated water (PAW) offers a green alternative to conventional chemical treatments as it reverts to water within days. However, the limited duration and dose of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) in acidified PAW restrict its clinical deployment and the full understanding of their mechanism. In this study, we propose alkaline PAW as an innovative enhancement of the RONS technology. The alkaline PAW generated markedly superior RONS, with about 10 times higher levels of NO2-, H2O2, and ONOO-/O2•- than acidic PAW. The possible RONS generation pathways in alkaline PAW are analyzed by scavengers. In conventional acidic PAW, 70% of the H2O2 concentration is contributed by •OH but only about 20% in alkaline PAW. ONOO- is mainly formed through the reaction of O2•- with NO in alkaline pH, while in acidic PAW, it mainly forms from NO2- and H2O2. The results unveiled the synergistic and formidable anticancer effects of alkaline PAW against cancer cells, typified by an increase in intracellular ROS/RNS levels. Furthermore, alkaline PAW injection also effectively prevented xenograft tumor growth in mice. We systematically investigated this high-dose anticancer solution without using noble gases, toxic reagents, or extra energy consumption and successfully demonstrated the possibility of alkaline PAW being an effective and environmentally friendly therapeutic technology. The activity is closely linked to the RONS dose, and the generation pathway provides much-needed insight into the fundamental aspects of PAW chemistry required for the optimization of the biochemical activity of PAW.

Anti-leishmanial activity of Hypericum Scabrum extract against Leishmania major

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease and one of the most significant neglected tropical diseases. Current anti-leishmanial treatments are often ineffective over extended periods and are associated with toxic side effects, highlighting the urgent need for new, effective, and safe alternative treatments for this infectious disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-leishmanial effects of a hydroalcoholic extract of Hypericum scabrum (H. scabrum), comparing its efficacy to that of the control drug glucantime against the standard strain of Leishmania major. The H. scabrum plants were collected from the western regions of Iran. A hydroalcoholic extract was prepared from the flower and stem of the plant using a maceration method. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis was conducted to identify the chemical compounds present in the extract. Promastigotes of L. major were cultured, and the anti-leishmanial activity of the extracts was assessed at concentrations ranging from 12.5 to 800 µg/ml using the MTT [3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide] assay. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for the H. scabrum plant extract at 24, 48, and 72 h were 245.47, 141.25 and 85.11 μg/ml, respectively. The IC50 values for glucantime (the control drug) at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h were 30.19, 21.37, and 12.58 μg/ml, respectively. While the H. scabrum extract exhibited a lower effect compared to the control drug, it still demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on the promastigote form of L. major. Given that the plant extract of H. scabrum has demonstrated promising anti-leishmanial effects against L. major promastigotes, further studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of these extracts in animal models of leishmaniasis.

Stranded heavy fuel oil exposure causes deformities, cardiac dysfunction, and oxidative stress in marine medaka Oryzias melastigma using an oiled-gravel-column system.

Heavy fuel oil (HFO) stranded on the coastline poses a potential threat to the health of marine fish after an oil spill. In this study, an oiled-gravel-column (OGC) system was established to investigate the toxic effects of stranded HFO on marine medaka Oryzias melastigma. HFO 380# (sulfur content 2.9%) was chosen as one type of high sulfur fuel oil for acute toxicity tests. The marine medaka larvae were exposed to the OGC system effluents with oil loading rates of 0 (control), 400, 800, 1600, and 3200µg HFO/g gravel for 144h, respectively. Results showed that a prevalence of blue sac disease signs presented teratogenic effects, including decreased circulation, ventricular stretch, cardiac hemorrhage, and pericardial edema. Moreover, the treatments (800, 1600, and 3200µg oil/g gravel) induced severe cardiotoxicity, characterized by significant bradycardia and reduced stroke volume with an overt decrease in cardiac output. Additionally, the antioxidant enzyme activities, including catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were significantly upregulated at 800-3200µg oil/g gravel except for a marked inhibition of CAT activity at 3200µg oil/g gravel. Furthermore, significantly elevated protein carbonyl (PCO) levels were detected, suggesting that the organisms suffered severe protein oxidative damage subjected to the exposure. Overall, stranded HFO 380# exposure activated the antioxidant defense system (up-regulated POD and GST activities) of marine medaka and disrupted CAT activity, which could result in an oxidative stress state (elevated PCO levels) and might further contribute to cardiac dysfunction, deformities, and mortality.

Removal of Diesel from Aqueous Solutions by a Combined Adsorption and Microbial Degradation Process

Diesel contamination in water bodies poses a significant environmental challenge due to the toxic effects of its water-soluble fraction (WSF) on aquatic ecosystems and human health. The aim of this work was the design of a new technological procedure for the purification of water contaminated with the WSF of diesel. The procedure is based on the adsorption of organic pollution on an organozeolite, after which the biodegradation of the adsorbed pollutant takes place. The material for obtaining organozeolite was a natural zeolite from the Zlatokop deposit (Vranje, Serbia). The zeolitic surface was modified with hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA-Br), a cationic quaternary ammonium salt. The adsorption experiments, with initial WSF concentrations of 2.5–25 mg/L, at pH 6 and at 20 C, were performed in a batch system using organozeolite, and the results showed that more than 90% of the WSF of diesel was removed, reaching equilibrium after 1 h. The maximum adsorbed capacity of organozeolite for the removal of the WSF of diesel fuel from water under the tested conditions was 22.2 mg/g. Equilibrium data were well fitted by a linear isotherm model, while a pseudo-second-order equation well fitted the kinetic data. After adsorption, a 15-day biodegradation experiment was carried out under batch conditions. The results showed that the examined consortium of microorganisms degraded 80% of the adsorbed contaminant. Additional respirometric analyses showed that, in parallel with the degradation of the contaminant, the degradation of the long-chain HDTMA ions at the surface of the organozeolite also occurred. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study combining adsorption and biodegradation to remove the WSF of diesel from water.

The synthesis of the novel Escherichia coli toxin—colibactin and its mechanisms of tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer

Escherichia coli is part of the normal flora of the human gut and performs vital functions; however, certain strains can cause disease in the host, impairing gut function and adversely affecting overall health. The pks gene cluster in the E. coli B2 serogroup encodes colibactin, a secondary metabolite and a potential gut toxin. However, the mechanism underlying colibactin production in E. coli is complex, and the function of the pks gene cluster is not fully understood. This review explores the complex mechanisms and processes by which the pks island in E. coli produces colibactin, clarifying the specific role played by the clbA-S genes within it. It also reveals the toxic effects of colibactin on the host cell’s DNA and elaborates the mechanisms that may be important in inducing the development of colorectal cancer, such as single-base substitution (SBS), small insertion/deletion (small indel) features (ID-pks), inter-chromosomal linkages (ICLs), and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). The elucidation of these mechanisms is of great significance for the further exploration and development of related drugs.

The Influence of Blood Titanium Levels on DNA Damage in Brazilian Workers Occupationally Exposed to Different Chemical Agents.

Occupational exposure to pollutants may cause health-damaging effects in humans. Genotoxicity assays can be used to detect the toxic effects of pollutants. In the present study, we evaluated genetic damage in three populations occupationally exposed to benzene, pyrenes, and agrochemicals and assessed the possible influence of titanium (Ti) co-exposure. A total of 275 subjects were enrolled in this study. The occupationally exposed population was composed of 201 male individuals, divided into three different groups: gas station attendants (GSA group) (n = 76), taxi drivers (TD group) (n = 97), farmers (farmers group) (n = 28), and control (n = 74). Biomarkers of exposure and effect were investigated such as AChe, BuChE, t,t-muconic acid (t,t-MA), and 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP). Ti levels in blood were higher in all the workers compared with the control group. DNA damage evaluated by comet assay was higher in the taxi drivers and farmers than in the controls, and the frequency of micronucleate buccal cells was higher in the gas station attendants and taxi drivers than in the controls. Correlations were found among occupational exposure time and biomarkers of exposure, genotoxicity biomarkers, and blood Ti levels. Our results demonstrated Ti co-exposure in the gas station attendants, taxi drivers, and farmers, and blood Ti levels were linked with the respective biomarkers of exposure. Additionally, tools through machine learning corroborated these findings, and Ti was the factor that contributed to DNA damage. Thus, the present study indicates the role of Ti in occupational settings and interactions with already known major xenobiotics present in the occupational environment contributing to genotoxicity.

Exosomes in esophageal cancer: a promising frontier for liquid biopsy in diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring

Esophageal cancer is a common and lethal digestive system malignancy, and both treatment efficacy and patient survival rates face significant challenges. In recent years, exosomes have emerged as crucial mediators of intercellular communication, demonstrating tremendous clinical potential, particularly in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic evaluation of esophageal cancer. These exosomes not only serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis but also modulate tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance by delivering bioactive molecules. Importantly, exosomes can act as carriers for esophageal cancer-related therapeutic agents, optimizing gene therapy strategies to enhance efficacy while reducing toxicity and side effects. Despite facing challenges in clinical applications such as purification, enrichment, and standardization of analytical methods, exosomes maintain broad prospects for application in esophageal cancer treatment, with the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. This review focuses on the innovative role of exosomes in the early diagnosis of esophageal cancer, exploring their application value and safety in disease monitoring and assessment of treatment response. Furthermore, this study outlines the challenges and limitations of transitioning exosome research from basic studies to clinical applications, as well as potential solutions and future research directions to address these obstacles.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles and Their Validation as a Promising Treatment for Chondrosarcoma in a 3D Model in Vitro.

Chondrosarcomas (CHS) constitute approximately 20% of all primary malignant bone tumors, characterized by a slow growth rate with initial manifestation of few signs and symptoms. These malignant cartilaginous neoplasms, particularly those with dedifferentiated histological subtypes, pose significant therapeutic challenges, as they exhibit high resistance to both radiation and chemotherapy. Ranging from relatively benign, low-grade tumors (grade I) to aggressive high-grade tumors with the potential for lung metastases and a grim prognosis, there is a critical need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, particularly for patients with more aggressive forms. Herein, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells are presented as an efficient nanodelivery tool to enhance drug penetration in an in vitro 3D model of CHS. Employing high-pressure homogenization (HPH), we achieved unprecedented encapsulation efficiency of doxorubicin (DXR) in sEVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-EVs). Subsequently, a comparative analysis between free DXR and MSC-EVs encapsulated with DXR (DXR-MSC-EVs) was conducted to assess their penetration and uptake efficacy in the 3D model. The results unveiled a higher incidence of necrotic cells and a more pronounced toxic effect with DXR-MSC-EVs compared to DXR alone. This underscores the remarkable ability of MSC-EVs to deliver drugs in complex environments, highlighting their potential application in the treatment of aggressive CHS.

EVALUATION OF INHIBITORY AND TOXICITY EFFECTS OF XYLOPIA AETHIOPICA FRUIT EXTRACT AGAINST ESBL-PRODUCING BACTERIAL STRAINS

This study investigated the inhibitory and toxicity effects of Xylopia aethiopica, widely utilized in traditional medicine, particularly in Nigeria and West Africa. The clinical isolates obtained from Department of Pathology, Federal Medical Center in Nguru, Yobe State which includes Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella boydii and Klebsiella oxytoca were identified and confirmed to produce Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) through standard microbiological methods, followed by genotyping via conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The bioactivity of Xylopia aethiopica fruit extract against Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing bacterial isolates was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method. The quantitative phytochemical analysis carried out through Soxhlet extraction revealed a range of bioactive compounds in varying amounts such as flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins and steroids, while alkaloids were not detected in the chloroform extract. Both ethanol and chloroform extracts displayed significant antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of 27.50 mm at 100% concentration, surpassing the reference drug, Amikacin (18.03 mm). Additionally, in vitro toxicity assessment indicated an LD50 of 3,807.9 mg/kg, indicating a slight toxicity level. These findings suggest that Xylopia aethiopica not only has promising antibacterial properties against ESBL-producing bacteria but also warrants caution due to its potential toxicity. The study emphasizes the need for careful consideration when incorporating Xylopia aethiopica into medicinal practices.

Impact of Tebuconazole Fungicide on Drone Semen Quality

Tebuconazole (TEB) is a widely used fungicide of the triazole group, especially in fruit tree cultivation. It has adverse effects on the reproductive system by disrupting cellular and hormonal mechanisms in most species. Lots of studies are proven the presence of TEB’s residues on fruit trees. However, no study has been found on its effect on the reproductive parameters of drones. Honey bees are considered at risk in terms of reproductive systems since they most probably transport this chemical to the colony through nectar and pollen. Therefore, it was aimed to investigate to potential toxic effects of TEB on drone semen quality, a crucial element in reproductive system of honey bee in dose and time dependent manner. Honey bee semen in five different tubes, each containing 1.0 – 1.5 x 108/ml spermatozoa, were exposed to 0, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 µM of TEB, respectively for 24 h. Afterward, semen were analyzed for motility (MOT), plasma membrane integrity (PMI), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) at 0 and 24 hours. The findings of this study revealed that highest concentration of TEB (1000 µM) significantly reduced (p≤0.05) MOT and PMI of semen compared to other concentrations even at 0 h. Following 24 h incubation, MOT, PMI and MMP values of groups exposed to 1000 µM TEB significantly lower (p≤0.05) than other groups. On the other hand, lower concentrations of TEB between 0-100 µM did not significantly change any parameters evaluated in this study at both 0 and 24 h (p>0.05). In conclusion, although it is only observed at the highest dose of TEB, our results showed that TEB has a detrimental effect on drone semen. Furthermore, it would be useful to conduct more comprehensive studies supported by in vitro and in vivo research in the future.

Arterial effects of anthracycline: structural & inflammatory assessments in non-human primates and lymphoma patients.

Anthracyclines, such as doxorubicin, are important anti-cancer therapies but are associated with arterial injury. Histopathological insights have been limited to small animal models and the role of inflammation in the arterial toxic effects of anthracycline is unclear in humans. Our aims were: 1) To evaluate aortic media fibrosis and injury in non-human primates treated with anthracyclines; 2) To assess the effect of anthracycline on aortic inflammation in patients treated for lymphoma. &#160;Methods1) African Green monkeys (AGM) received doxorubicin (30-60 mg/m2/biweekly intravenously, cumulative dose: 240 mg/m2). Blinded histopathologic analyses of the ascending aorta were performed 15 weeks after the last doxorubicin dose and compared to 5 age- and gender-matched healthy, untreated AGMs. 2) Analysis of the thoracic aorta of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), at baseline and after doxorubicin exposure, was performed using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in this observational study by maximal tissue-to-background ratio (TBRmax).</p> &#160;Results: In AGMs, doxorubicin exposure was associated with greater aortic fibrosis (collagen deposition: doxorubicin 6.23±0.88% vs. controls 4.67±0.54%; p=0.01) and intracellular vacuolization (doxorubicin 66.3±10.1 vs controls 11.5±4.2 vacuoles/field, p<0.0001) than untreated controls. In 101 patients with DLBCL, there was no change in aortic TBRmax after anthracycline exposure (TBRmax 1.46 ± 0.16 vs 1.44 ± 0.14 respectively, p=0.14). Univariate analyses yielded similar results.</p> &#160;Conclusions: In a large animal model, anthracycline exposure was associated with aortic fibrosis. In patients with lymphoma, anthracycline exposure was not associated with aortic inflammation. Further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms of anthracycline-related vascular harm.

The Stress Response of Aphids to the Accumulation of Heavy Metals Along Vicia faba L. Under Cadmium Treatment

Due to the intensification of human activities, the ecosystems are being polluted by heavy metals. The pollution of heavy metals in agricultural systems has become a serious issue of global concern. This study detected the bioaccumulation of cadmium (Cd) in broad beans and aphids through continuous exposure to varying concentrations of Cd pollution (0, 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50 mg/L) and subsequently examined its effects on aphid energy metabolism and reproductive ability. The results showed that Cd can be transmitted and accumulated between Vicia faba L. and aphids along the food chain, and the amount of accumulation was related to the Cd treatment concentration. Quantitative real-time PCR results showed that the expression levels of trehalase (TRE) and trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) in F1 were significantly upregulated, and those of vitellogenin (Vg) were varied across the five generations of aphids after Cd treatment, which were up-regulated, and others down-regulated. Compared with the control group, the glycogen content and two types of trehalase activities of the first-generation Cd-treatment aphids were decreased, while trehalose content increased; there was no significant change in the carbohydrate content and trehalase activity of the fourth and fifth generations of aphids. In addition, the reproduction of female aphids was inhibited. This research is helpful for studying the toxic effects of heavy metals on insects and the adaptation mechanisms of insects to extreme environments. It also provides a theoretical basis for further exploring the molecular mechanisms of Cd homeostasis in plants and insects under Cd stress.

Hydroxychloroquine retinopathy in a 23-year-old male.

To report a case of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy after long-term exposure in a 23-year-old male. Multimodal imaging including fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and en face OCT were performed, in addition to functional testing with full-field electroretinography (ERG) and Humphrey visual field (HVF). A 23-year-old man with a history of juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus and HCQ treatment for 13 years at a dosage of 200 mg/d (cumulative dose: 949 grams) presented to the retinal clinic (DS). Although fundus photography and FAF were unremarkable, SD-OCT and en face OCT showed paracentral ellipsoid zone loss with thinning of the outer nuclear layer, OS greater than OD consistent with HCQ retinopathy. HVF 10-2 showed possible nasal loss OU. Genetic testing revealed heterozygous mutations in the CNGA1 and CRX genes but full-field ERG was unremarkable without evidence of a cone dystrophy. Family history was negative for genetic disease. This report highlights a case of HCQ retinopathy in a young patient who started treatment at the age of 10 years. There are currently no specific guidelines for the screening of pediatric patients, and studies evaluating the effect of HCQ on children are lacking. Whether the genetic carrier status rendered the patient more susceptible to the toxic effect of HCQ remains to be determined.

Eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles by Trigonella foenum-graecum: formulations, characterizations, and application in wound healing

Background Due to the toxicity and serious side effects of chemical incorporated in topical dosage form used for treatment of wound healing, there is a need to use natural preparation as wound healing preparation. Aims Seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum (TFG) are used to synthesize eco-friendly silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in an appropriate way to heal wounds. Methods To synthesize SNPs, TFG was incubated with AgNO3 to produce SNP-TFG. The obtained SNP-TFG was characterized for their wavelength, size and ζ-potential, surface morphology, and yield production. Then, SNP-TFG was formulated as a topical cream (O/W), characterized, and applied to the rats’ groups to examine its wound-healing activity. Finally, a skin biopsy was performed to assess all rats’ immunostaining and histopathological (HP) alterations in skin lesions on days 3, 7, 10, and 14. Results The prepared SNP-TFG showed non-aggregated nano-formulation, with a λmax of 396 nm. SNP-TFG recorded a size of 43.65 ± 2.1 nm, a charge of −15.03 ± 3.2 mV, and showed yield of 52.61 ± 1.41% while the release was continued for more than 12 h. During the biosynthesis process, the compounds present in TFG are capable of reducing silver ions (Ag+) to form SNPs. SNP-TFG cream showed a pH nearly equal to the skin’s pH, with suitable viscosity and homogeneity and an apparent permeability of 0.009 ± 0.001. Further, the HP of the SNP-TFG showed a substantial reduction in wound mass, wound granulation tissue growth enhancement, and epidermal re-epithelialization (proliferation) compared to the control group. Conclusion The obtained SNP-TFG is considered a novel skin wound-healing natural and eco-friendly nano-formulation.

Liver-targeting iron oxide nanoparticles and their complexes with plant extracts for biocompatibility.

Thanks to their simple synthesis, controlled physical properties, and minimal toxicity, iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) are widely used in many biomedical applications (e.g., bioimaging, drug delivery, biosensors, diagnostics, and theranostics). However, the use of NPs does not preclude the possibility of selective toxicity and undesirable effects, including accumulation in tissues and direct interaction with specific biological targets. This study evaluated the biocompatibility of Fe3O4 NPs, Teucrium polium (T. polium) extract, rutin, and the corresponding complexes on the liver tissue of healthy white Wistar rats. The impact profile of the synthesized Fe3O4 NPs (15 ± 4 nm), rutin, T. polium extract, and their complexes on biochemical markers of liver function (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, total protein, and albumin) and morphological indicators of rat liver was investigated. Fe3O4 NPs, rutin, and T. polium extract do not show direct hepatotoxicity when administered intraperitoneally to rats, unlike their complexes. All agents exert a hypolipidemic effect by lowering LDL, despite maintaining the synthetic functions of the liver. Fe3O4 NPs increase the activity of GPO, which is associated with their peroxidase-like properties. A multifaceted and diverse mechanism of action of all studied samples on the liver of Wistar rats was identified.

Utilization of agrowaste for arsenic biosorption: enhancing efficacy and assessing the suitability of plant and animal growth in post-adsorbed solution.

Arsenic is known to have detrimental effects on living bodies when exposed to contaminated groundwater. Therefore, a cost-effective way to eliminate arsenic from aquatic sources is essential. Our study evaluated the efficacy of eight different types of easily accessible agricultural wastes for arsenic removal. The safety assessment of the post-adsorbed solution in plant and animal test models such as Allium cepa and Daphnia magna was also evaluated. The results showed that the efficiency of the adsorbents depends on the type of agricultural waste utilized. In the case of citrus agrowastes, maximum biosorption (94-95%) was attained at the lowest 15min contact time, indicating very rapid saturation of adsorption sites for other adsorbents; with an increase of contact time, there was a gradual increase in biosorption of arsenic. Allium cepa toxicity test showed that arsenic exposure caused a significant decrease in root length (2.80 ± 0.89cm) and a reduction in mitotic index (6.31 ± 1.79%) that can be reverted to normal after the roots were grown in a post-adsorbed medium. Similarly, solutions treated with different agricultural wastes except citrus biosorbents showed significantly higher survival rates and litter sizes of Daphnia magna post biosorption. Agricultural waste with citric characteristics removed arsenic more effectively than other chosen agricultural wastes, but the solution generated by biosorption with citric agrowaste does not support plant and animal growth. Among the other chosen adsorbents, rice husk has been found to be highly suitable for plant and animal growth by reducing the toxic effects of arsenic.